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An Instrument for All Seasons, by Ritualwell

With this tambourine, we salute Women of the Wall for their struggle for equality and peace at this sacred site.

With Hanukkah approaching, we want to remind the Ritualwell community that we are selling tambourines designed by artist Betsy Platkin Teutsch … and proceeds from every sale will help support the work of Ritualwell. These tambourines make wonderful gifts for people who appreciate the values of tradition and innovation that Ritualwell represents. Tambourines have ancient roots in Jewish tradition. Many psalms refer to the instrument and Miriam used one to sing praise after the Israelites crossed the Red Sea.  Betsy’s innovation was to re-imagine the tambourine as a piece of visual art as well as an instrument. This resonates for us at Ritualwell. We believe in making the old new, and we look for ways to bring more beauty and intention into every aspect of our lives. Betsy’s tambourines reflect our commitment to evolving Jewish ritual and offer an invitation for anyone to participate. There is no special training required to shake a tambourine!

The tambourine we are offering is called “Thanks for the Chair.” It depicts a diverse group of women praying at the Kotel (Western Wall). We are delighted that Betsy is re-issuing this piece fifteen years after it first appeared. At the same time, we feel great sorrow that women are still not able to pray as they choose at the Kotel. With this tambourine, we salute Women of the Wall for their struggle for equality and peace at this sacred site.

Please consider purchasing one of these beautiful tambourines as a gift for a loved one—or for yourself. Ritualwell is supported through the generosity of its users. You can always make a secure online donation here.          

The Reconstructionist Network

Liturgy Writing for Prayer Leaders

This immersion is for prayer leaders who have some experience writing prayers and want to receive feedback and hone their skills as liturgists in a supportive environment.

Six sessions, starting May 24th

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