A Rosh Hashanah message from Dr. Jonathan Levy

October 1, 2024
28 Elul, 5784

Dear TanenbaumCHAT Community,

I have a painting on the wall of my office (scroll down for photo) that my parents gave to me a number of years ago. It has always captured my imagination, though I’ve never been entirely sure why. It hangs right next to my desk where, when I have a brief moment, I can look at it. The painting features five scenes, beginning with the sounding of the shofar in synagogue on Rosh Hashanah, and progressing through three significant Biblical events, where the shofar (or trumpet) plays a pivotal role: Akeidat Yitzchak (the binding of Isaac), Matan Torah (Revelation at Sinai), and the Avodah (Temple service). The final scene at the top depicts Jews dancing together, culminating in a shofar blast directed towards the heavens. The shofar is the powerful link between each scene.

While some may focus on the power of prayer, particularly during the High Holidays, I find deeper resonance in two key themes. First, the painting reminds me of some of the most significant moments in Jewish history—events so vital they are repeatedly mentioned in our High Holiday prayers. Yet what evokes an even stronger emotion is the unity that results from the celebration of our common history, pictured in the Jews dancing together. This shared unity has given tremendous strength to the Jewish people throughout history, while its absence has led to devastating consequences.

At TanenbaumCHAT, we take immense pride in our diverse Jewish community that comes together in unity each day to study and grow. With almost 1,400 students, we are educating the future of the Jewish community—locally, nationally, and internationally. Our curriculum in Jewish History, Rabbinics, Tanach, and Ivrit (Hebrew language) fosters a strong understanding of our collective history, texts, and culture, reinforcing the bonds that unite us. Coupled with a robust general studies program and expansive extracurricular offerings, our students are given the opportunity to excel in a myriad of ways while celebrating the strength found in our shared values and diverse perspectives.

This past year has been an incredibly difficult one. October 7 will mark one year since the most devastating attack on our people since the Holocaust. This tragedy has impacted us all deeply—the plight of the hostages, the dramatic rise in antisemitism, and the ongoing threats to the State of Israel. As I write this message, Israel is under attack from Iran. However, in the face of this adversity, we must continue to show our Jewish pride, to stand united with a strong knowledge of our past, and drive towards our incredibly bright future.

May this be a year of peace, happiness, and good health, as well as one of unity, partnership, and hope.

Am Yisrael Chai,

Dr. Jonathan Levy
Head of School