A simple, restful prayer in observance of Shmita. Written by Carole Caplan, Marcy Epstein, Idelle Hammond-Sass, and Rav Michal Woll of the Ann Arbor Reconstructionist Congregation.
Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Sovereign of the universe, who makes us holy by observing shmita.
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With blessing(s) we rest the land, renewing our connection to the earth & each other.
כן יהי רצון Let it be God’s will!
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With gratitude we share our abundance & are fulfilled.
כן יהי רצון Let it be God’s will!
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With strength we mend our relationships & obligations, releasing all from bondage.
כן יהי רצון Let it be God’s will!
Explanation of shimta according to the Shmita Project of HAZON:
“Commonly translated as the ‘Sabbatical Year,’ Shmita literally means ‘release.’ Of biblical origin, this is the final year of a shared calendar cycle, when land is left fallow, debts are forgiven, and a host of other agricultural and economic adjustments are made to ensure the maintenance of an equitable, just, and healthy society. The questions about how Shmita actually worked – if it actually worked – are enormous. The possibilities for social change are thrilling.”
