Parashat Naso

Dear friends,

In this week's Torah portion, Naso we encounter the Priestly blessing (Kohanim).

Even though there is no Temple in which the Kohanim can carry out their tasks, this blessing is recited by the Kohanim at the daily morning service in Israel, and on holidays in the Diaspora.

The Sefardi Jews say the blessing every day even in the Diaspora!

The story goes that a prominent member of a congregation came to the Rabbi and said:

"I would like to become a Kohen." (Note one ican only be a Kohen by birth)

The rabbi, careful to avoid offending the congregant, respectfully declined.

"Rabbi," said the man, "if you make me a Kohen, I'll contribute 25,000 Euros to the Synagogue."

Still, the Rabbi refused.

"Alright -- I'll make it 50,000 Euros!"

Uncomfortably, the Rabbi still had to decline.

"Final offer: 100,000 Euros. Take the money and make me a Kohen -- or else I'll quit the synagogue!´´

Then the rabbi asked the man why he wanted to become a Kohen.

"It's simple," the man said, "my father was a Kohen,

my grandfather was a Kohen ...

I want to be a Kohen, too."

"May G-d bless you and keep you.

May G-d shine his countenance upon you and be gracious to you.

May G-d raise his countenance upon you and give you peace."

Shabbath SHalom

Gut SHabbes