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And You Shall Love: Reflections at Yizkor

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Summary

This article is about Yizkor, a Jewish memorial service honoring those who have died, and how it reflects on the loss of a mother during this pandemic year, and of the father forty years ago. The author reflects on the commandment in the Torah to love G-d, which he sees as a statement of fact rather than a command, as one's existence is integrated into the Oneness of G-d and therefore one's heart has no choice but to love G-d. He also reflects on the bond between parents and children and how it is ever-present and eternal, even if it is not expressed in a particular sentiment or feeling. Lastly, he remembers his mother's resilience and generosity and how, despite her passing, her bond with him is eternal.

Q&As

What commands in the Torah mandate a certain kind of feeling?
Lo Tachmod, v’Samachta b’chagecha, and v’Ahavta et Hash-m Elo-kecha are commands in the Torah that mandate a certain kind of feeling.

How did the author's father's passing influence his observance of Yizkor?
The author's father's passing influenced his observance of Yizkor by making it about "checking boxes" and feeling relief when everything was done.

What does R. Joseph B. Soloveitchik say is the "secret" to loving G-d?
R. Joseph B. Soloveitchik says the "secret" to loving G-d is a feeling of possessiveness and inseparability from the beloved, no matter what state one may find themselves in a given moment.

How does the author reflect on the parent-child relationship in light of his mother's passing?
The author reflects on the parent-child relationship in light of his mother's passing by recognizing the full magnitude of all she did for him and his sisters, and how her life was defined by her resilience and generosity of spirit.

What does the author believe the Torah means when it says to love Hashem with all your heart?
The author believes the Torah means that loving Hashem with all your heart is a statement of fact, because your existence is integrated into the Oneness of Hashem and your heart thus has no choice but to love G-d fully.

AI Comments

👍 This article was very well written and successfully captured the emotions of the writer. It was very moving and provides an insightful reflection on the power of love between a parent and a child.

👎 The article was overly sentimental and the author's reflections on the parent-child relationship felt too personal and over-the-top. It was difficult to read and didn't provide much insight into the topic.

AI Discussion

Me: It's about reflecting on the loss of a parent during the pandemic year and the mitzvot of loving God and honoring their memory. It discusses how we can find love within ourselves and honor the bond between parent and child, even if they have passed away.

Friend: That sounds really moving and thought-provoking. What are the implications of the article?

Me: The article highlights the importance of cherishing the love we have for our parents and loved ones, even after they have passed away. It also emphasizes the power of prayer and reflection to help us cope with grief and honor those we have lost. Furthermore, it speaks to the importance of allowing ourselves to feel our emotions, even if they seem inconvenient or uncomfortable in the moment. Ultimately, it reminds us to appreciate the love we have in our lives and to make sure we cherish and honor the memories of those we have lost.

Action items

Reflect on the parent-child relationship and how it is defined by unconditional love.
Consider how the love of G-d is analogous to the love of a parent for a child.
Take time to appreciate the memories of a loved one who has passed away and find ways to honor their memory.

Technical terms

Yizkor: A Jewish memorial service held four times a year in which prayers are said for the souls of deceased relatives.
Lo Tachmod: A commandment in the Torah which means “You shall not covet”.
V’Samachta b’chagecha: A commandment in the Torah which means “you shall rejoice on your holiday”.
V’Ahavta et Hash-m Elo-kecha: A commandment in the Torah which means “you shall love Hash-m your G-d”.
Treyf: Non-kosher food.
Shema: A Jewish prayer recited twice a day in which one affirms their belief in one G-d.
Shechinah: The presence of G-d in the world.
R. Joseph B. Soloveitchik: A prominent 20th century Orthodox rabbi.
Rabbeinu Bachya: A medieval Spanish rabbi.
Kaddish: A Jewish prayer said in memory of the dead.
Yahrtzeit: The anniversary of a person’s death.
Amud: The podium in a synagogue from which the Torah is read.
Shiva: A Jewish mourning period of seven days.