Our last post introduced fear, and today we shift slightly to reverence and awe. One interpretation links fear with the realm of human relationship, reserving reverence for our posture towards the Divine.
Wisdom and relationship are two of the basic pillars of our entire project. Today we are warned of airless wisdom and insincere relationships that come if we fail to adopt a sense of reverence.
Psalms instructs, "The beginning of wisdom (חכמה) is the fear of the LORD (יראת ה׳)" (Psalms 111:10). The vulnerability, humility, and submission characteristic of true reverence allow our spiritual pores to open up to wisdom from Above and all Around us. Short of that existentially outward-facing posture, we risk collapsing into the trap of hollow self-worship.
Reflection:
Lived practice:
Reflection:
What role does יראה play in your theology?
If you believe in a God that is not only some powerful being 'out there,' does יראה still play a role in your connection with God?
Do you find יראה compelling as part of your actual experience practicing Judaism?
Lived practice:
Pay attention to the parts of your life, both good and bad, that are out of your control. Health, weather, and the other circumstances that shape your life. Take note of the awareness of not having total control.
