February 2026 - The Torah is a Tree of Life

As you know, when we return the Torah to the ark after the Torah reading at Shabbat services, we sing, Eitz Chaim Hi, The Torah is a Tree of Life… The tree represents growth, stability, and wisdom, as well as hope for and the link to future generations. It is a connection between God and humanity and represents the path of spiritual and practical growth. It is a powerful symbol in Judaism and many synagogues, ours included, have a Tree of Life on the wall near the entrance or some prominent place where we celebrate milestones by donating a leaf on it. Our Tree of Life in our vestibule is large and beautiful with many tributes.

At our Chanukah dinner I presented a piece of art which I recently came upon and decided to gift to the synagogue as a thank you for my 10 years as your Spiritual Leader and the lovely celebration last May. The picture is of a beautiful tree with many colorful leaves, and I call it the Tree of Life. It was created by an artist, Dar James, who lives in Pennsylvania and has a very interesting story. We hung the picture on the opposite wall across from our Tree of Life in the vestibule. I hope you will take a look next time you are in shul. Interestingly enough, we hung it right around Tu B’Shevat, the Jewish holiday of the trees, earlier this month.

Be sure to join us for our Third Friday Kabbalat Shabbat Zoom Service on Friday, February 20 at 7PM, when the artist, Dar James, will be featured. She will share her story, her process, and her love of art and nature. We are very fortunate to have her present her insights and talents. “See” you on zoom!

B’shalom,
Cantor Rena