Note: Each week of the OmerFrom the second day of Passover until Shavuot, Jews count seven weeks – seven times seven days – to commemorate the period between the Exodus from Egypt and the Revelation at Sinai. When the Temple stood, a certain measure (omer) of barley was offered on the altar each day; today, we merely count out the days. 5784 we’ll include LilyFish Gomberg’s weekly guide to Counting the Omer (Taylor’s version). Find the introduction and guide here.
Find LilyFish’s playlist here.
Week Two: Gevurah – Strength, Discipline, and Boundaries
Day eight, the first day in week two, Chesed within Gevurah, is “Better Man.” Chesed, or loving-kindness, within the context of strength and boundaries can be about acknowledging that sometimes the most loving thing is to let go. In “Better Man,” Taylor reflects on a relationship that she had to end for the sake of both parties. Our love can only flourish when our boundaries are respected. She sings, “I might still be in love if you were a better man.”
Day nine, the second day in week two, Gevurah within Gevurah, is “Jump Then Fall.” This song captures the essence of taking bold steps and embracing the strength it takes to leap into the unknown. It’s a reminder that sometimes, exercising discipline and setting boundaries means being courageous and diving into new experiences. She sings, “I like the way you sound in the morning, we’re on the phone, and without a warning, I realize your laugh is the best sound I have ever heard.”
Day ten, the third day in week two, Tiferet within Gevurah, is “You’re On Your Own, Kid.” Tiferet, which represents truth, balance, and compassion, within the context of Gevurah, can symbolize finding a harmonious balance between emphaisising your strengths an your struggles. YOYOK is all about the journey Taylor took to become the international star she is, and the beauty that came with her struggles. She sings “I looked around in a blood-soaked gown and I saw something they can’t take away, ‘Cause there were pages turned with the bridges burned, everything you lose is a step you take. So make the friendship bracelets take the moment and taste it, you’ve got no reason to be afraid.”
Day eleven, the fourth day of week two, Netzach within Gevurah, is “Clean.” Netzach, perseverance and fortitude, within the realm of boundaries, signifies the strength to overcome and cleanse oneself from past wounds. In “Clean,” Taylor sings about emerging from a difficult time and finding clarity and renewal. She sings, “10 months older, I won’t give in – now that I’m clean I’m never gonna risk it.”
Day twelve, the fifth day of week two, Hod within Gevurah, is “Back to December.” Hod, humility and gratitude, within the context of boundaries, can be about acknowledging mistakes and expressing regret. “Back to December” is a song of reflection and humility, where Taylor expresses remorse and a desire to go back and make amends and acceptance that that might not be possible. She sings, “so if the chain is on your door, I understand.”
Day thirteen, the sixth day of week two, Yesod within Gevurah, is “mad woman.” Yesod, truth and foundation, within the strength and discipline of Gevurah, is about standing firm in one’s convictions and recognition of what has made you the person you are, and how those convictions have formed you. “mad woman” explores themes of reclaiming power and identity, refusing to conform to societal expectations. She sings, “Every time you call me crazy, I get more crazy.”
Day fourteen, the seventh day of week two, Malkhut within Gevurah, is “Mean.” Malkhut, majesty and authority, within the context of boundaries, signifies the empowerment to rise above negativity. In “Mean,” Taylor addresses criticism with resilience and refuses to let others define her worth. She sings, “Someday, I’ll be big enough so you can’t hit me.”
