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A Vision of Charity and Aid During Trying Times

In her book 'Be Not Afraid', Susan Maginn says "Religious paths can help us cope when we are afraid.  Some lead us toward justice in the here and now while others help us cope by cultivating the inner life, believing that through contemplative practices the spirit is strengtheneed to face anything that happens in the material world.  There is really only one human fear:  the fear that we will be unable to cope."

We are all economic beings, inextricably bound with one another in this global economy.  In our daily fight to keep our heads above water, we can hopefully depend on one another.  It is a comfort to know that your Temple supports you as a person, as a family member, and as a congregant.

If the tough economic times hasn't hit you, be thankful and reach out to those who may have been affected.  If you know of those who are struggling, reach out and offer a helpful hand.

The whole range of compassionate activities toward others is called gemilut chasidim ("the bestowal of loving kindness" or "acts of compassion").  A major aspect of gemilut chasidim is charity and almsgiving for the poor.  This charity is called tsedakah.  According to Proverbs 21:3, to do 'tzedakah' is more acceptable to the Lord than 'sacrifice' - which is interpreted as 'sacrifices offered in the temple'.

Providing for those in economic peril is not a favor granted by the giver.  The needy have a God-given right to aid and the giver has an obligation to God to help.  Jews call such an obligation a mitsvah (command).  As faithful worshippers of God, Jews should seek opportunities to perform mitsvot (plural of mitsvah).  Acts of compassion are not a burden for us.  As Jews, we recognize that it is simply part of being God's people in God's world and therefore should be done with joy.  

Our Rabbi's Vision

 

The unique approach of religion through music, drama, art, film, and dance encompasses artists with diverse backgrounds to create new expressions of Jewish worship. It results in a heightened experience, easily accessed by people of any background.

The vision of its founding Rabbi, David Baron, who pioneered the fusion of religion through music, drama and dance, Temple of the Arts, at the 1900-seat restored Art-Deco Saban Theatre is the largest arts synagogue in the United States.

As members of a Temple that is housed on exciting live performing arts venue, special benefits accrue in the form of priority seating and notification.  Last year our venue was home to performances by:  Itzhak Perlman, Joan Rivers, Mel Brooks & Dick Cavett, Deepak Chopra, Carol Burnett, Marlo Thomas, and many others.

Temple of the Arts' Sacred Space Prayer BookUnder Rabbi David Baron's dynamic spiritual leadership, The Beverly Hills Temple of the Arts at the Saban Theatre has grown with ground breaking creative endeavors. Some of which include widely attended services with stimulating international programs. The first Jewish art prayer books; The Chagall High Holy Day Prayer Bookthe inspiring Chagall High Holy Day prayer book, sacred Moments and Our Siddur, Sacred Space and the first nationally televised (UJC cosponsored) Yom Kippur service.  We hope you are able to join us at our next high holy day services.