Parshat Tetzaveh describes the special and beautifully crafted garments that the priests were commanded to wear when engaged in their holy work. From this parshat we learn how special clothing can remind us of mitzvot. The most well known garment linked to mitzvot are tzitzit. Each morning in tefillah we recite the passage that teaches how tzitzit serve as a physical reminder to perform all of the mitzvot of the Torah. At Heschel, our kissuyyi rosh reminds us of our school values of wonder in God in an egalitarian and pluralistic community. Parshat Tetzaveh falls this year just prior to Purim – a festival for which clothing and garments play an important role. Purim is a chance to dress up, be creative, and explore different personas. This week, our Junior Kindergarten students paraded through the halls, dressed as clowns, welcoming in the month of Adar. Their mission was to “make people laugh.” As one child told her mother at pick-up time, “today we made people happy.” Clothing can remind us of many mitzvot, from experiencing respect, building community, and making people happy!
This Shabbat, may we all consider how we can use clothing in creative ways to help us fulfil mitzvot.
Shabbat Shalom,
Moreh Greg
