And again, the pre-quarantine time is nostalgically recalled. We would be preparing for picnics right now. After all, on May 12, our Khmelnytskyi community would certainly have celebrated Lag Baomer at the dacha in Pecheski. And all other Jewish communities in the world would have traditionally lit fires, prepared feasts, celebrated merrily and noisily... How beautiful it is to be outdoors among the fresh, intoxicating greenery! But this year, gathering again.
So we will postpone bonfires, archery and other entertainment until next year. Even in Israel, a fine of 500 shekels is provided for lighting a bonfire on the holiday this year. It is time to remember that Lag Baomer has another meaning. Jews all over the world celebrate this day as a holiday of love and mutual respect. Why? The Talmud tells that once during the life of Rabbi Akiva, between the holidays of Pesach and Shavuot, a terrible epidemic broke out, which took the lives of 24 thousand of his students. This was punishment for the fact that they did not show due respect to each other. And when they realized this and changed, those deaths suddenly stopped. That miracle happened right on the day of Lag Baomer. So maybe this year's coronavirus outbreak is also intended to make us understand, force us to rethink our lives, change for the better? It seems that...
The staff of the Hesed Besht Jewish Community Foundation cordially congratulates all members of our friendly community on the holiday of Lag Baomer. Let us remember that Jewish history has many joyful and happy moments. Let us remember with a kind word of prayer our spiritual leaders, among whom is Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai. It was he who commanded us to have great fun on the day of his death (on Lag Baomer), and it is in his honor that we light a bonfire (on the day of his death, his home was illuminated with an incredibly bright light).
Let us express (mentally, on social networks or by phone) our respect and love for each other. Dear friends, be invincible, resistant to adversity, strong in spirit. Good health and prosperity to you. May no misfortune touch us. We look forward to meeting you. Let's hold on!
