Rabbi’s Corner – Remembering Debbie Friedman Edition

Dear Friends,
Overshadowed by the tragedy in Tucson AZ was this week’s passing of Debbie Friedman. Though largely unknown in the Orthodox community, Ms. Friedman provided inspiration for thousands of Jews across America. If Shlomo Carlebach was the “Bob Dylan” of Jewish music, it would not be inappropriate to compare Ms. Friedman to Joan Baez. Her influence in spreading Judaism to secular an unaffiliated Jews is equally immeasurable.

In a sense it is also fitting to remember her works this week where we read Beshalach. This parasha is best known for Az Yashir – the song the Jews sang after the miracle of the splitting of the Red Sea. In line with her sense of empowering women, one of Ms. Friedman’s best known songs is “Miriam’s Song,” inspired by the Torah’s specifically including the women in the post-miracle celebration.

Because of the inclusion of Az Yashir, many call this week “Shabbat Shira” – the Shabbat of Song. Let us keep in mind this week the songs of the past which continue to inspire us, pull us through tragedy, and through which we best express our joy.

Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Josh Yuter