Introduction
Psalm 92 tells us “…L’yom ha Shabbat…tov l’hodot la-Shem…”—”for Shabbat…it is good to give thanks to G-d” and “Mah gadlu ma’asecha haShemLit. The Name, referring to the ineffable name of God; used as a substitute for any of the more sacred names of God when not speaking in prayer. Particularly used in conversation.“—”how great are Your works, O G-d!” So it seems natural on ShabbatShabbat is the Sabbath day, the Day of Rest, and is observed from Friday night through Saturday night. Is set aside from the rest of the week both in honor of the fact that God rested on the seventh day after creating the world. On Shabbat, many Jews observe prohibitions from various activities designated as work. Shabbat is traditionally observed with festive meals, wine, challah, prayers, the reading and studying of Torah, conjugal relations, family time, and time with friends. to go outside, enjoy, and praise.
Once a month, our community has a meditative outdoor Shabbat experience. We go somewhere where we have the opportunity to walk slowly, observe the natural beauty around us, and reflect on our place in it.
Instructions
Below you will find alternative translations for key sections of the AmidahLit. Standing One of the central prayers of the Jewish prayer service, recited silently while standing. (created by Rabbi Amy Loewenthal). These translations highlight themes you can use to relect on your experiences out of doors. What do you see? What do you hear? What are you feeling? If your Shabbat practice includes writing, drawing or photography, you might want to record your responses with words or images.
When doing this as a communal activity, participants should meet up with each other at planned intervals to share observations and reflections.
OUTDOOR SHABBAT AMIDAH REFLECTIONS
We reflect on our great fortune to be part of this World, this stunning [………] region, on this Sabbath day made for thankfulness and beauty and peace.
1. Avot v’ Imot: ANCESTORS
Ancient, Ancient beings…
2. Gevurot: DIVINE POWER
You bring the dew, the wind, the rain
You raise up the Fallen
Healing and Releasing in compassion
Power of Life and Death
3. Kedushat ha Shem: NAMING THE HOLY
HOLY, HOLY, HOLY !
All the world is filled with Glory!
4. Kedushat ha Yom: THE DAY’S HOLINESS
All the work was done
The seventh day – to rest, to take a breath
A day of pleasure and delight
5. Avodah: ACKNOWLEDGING CONNECTION
Please know, we are aware of You
Help us feel at Home
6. Hoda’ah: THANKS
Small miracles, daily wonders
All of Life can sing its praise
7. Birkat Shalom: PEACE
Shine on us the Light of Blessing
It is safe to love and to spread peace
