Monday, December 2, 2024. This week we felt the change of seasons abruptly – after a long, warm autumn, snow has fallen throughout our region, in some places heavily, and the temperatures have dropped. Winter is upon us! It can feel like we’re just beginning a 5-month journey of cold and ice. And yet, the snow brings its own light, welcome after the descending darkness of November and Cheshvan. Some of us eagerly anticipate this time of year, looking forward to firelight, warm cuddles with blankets and books, and cocooning with friends and family.
Kislev is the month of dreams, and in Europe and the northern US, a month of snow’s light. Our source Jill Hammer recalls advice from our sage Rabbi Judah Loew of Prague, who saw winter snow as a “vessel of spiritual light…reminding us of G-d’s ‘colorless’ presence in the world at this season.”[1] After the darkness and quietness of November and Cheshvan, we enter deeper into the interior, spiritual realm, and consolidate our dreams for the year to come. We are headed toward the lights of Hanukah – like the candles in a cabin window at night, beckoning us forward. May we all have a meaningful month, as we begin our winter journey! — K. Miriam
Our next Rosh Chodesh walking meditation will honor the month of Tevet, Tuesday, December 31, 2025, at 8:30 am. Rain or snow or shine! Contact us for location.
[1] Rabbi Jill Hammer, The Jewish Book of Days, p. 110. See “Sources” tab for full citation.
Rosh Chodesh Cleveland 