From the Desk of Jennifer Lorch Selco | Sr. Director of Jewish Living + Engagement
This week’s double Torah portion, Matot-Masei, ends with the story of five sisters: Mahlah, Noa, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah—the daughters of Zelophehad.
After their father dies, they realize that, according to the law at the time, they will not inherit his land because he has no sons. Instead of accepting things as they were, the sisters speak up for themselves. They go to Moses and explain why they believed the law should be different. Moses, unsure what the right answer was, brings their question to God. God’s response is simple: the daughters are right.
Their courage leads to a change in the law, allowing daughters to inherit when there were no sons. Later, when the Israelites enter the Promised Land, the sisters remind the leaders of the promise that had been made, and they receive the land they had been promised. In finding the courage to raise their voices, at first for themselves, they help create a more just future for others.
This story reminds us that every voice matters. Change is not initiated with a big speech—it often starts with one person who is willing to say, “I think we can do better.”
The daughters of Zelophehad also remind us that good leaders listen. Moses does not pretend to have all the answers. He is willing to hear their perspective, ask for guidance, and make room for change.
As we move into Shabbat, let’s remember that each of us has something valuable to contribute. Like the daughters of Zelophehad, we have the opportunity to use our voices to create positive change—for ourselves, for our community, and for those who come after us.
Matot-Masei means “The Tribes” and “The Marches [of the Israelites].” In this double portion, we learn of the Israelite’s journey from Egypt through the wilderness and eventually of their arrival in the Promised Land. In addition to the lessons we take from the story of the daughters of Zelophehad, we learn about the importance of embracing the journey through whatever wilderness we may be facing. One of our strengths here at the J is that while we are all on our own individual journeys, we are never alone. Together, we support one another, work together toward shared visions of the future, and are strengthened by our collective pursuit of wellness.
This week at the J, kids in Early Childhood Education beat the heat and learned new skills together at the pool. One classroom showed off their camaraderie and creative spirit wearing matching tie-dye shirts they made themselves, and other ECE students cheer eachother on in PeeWee sports!
In Camp, we had a blast with Wednesday’s themed Pajama Day, made masks in the theatre chugim (choice activity), baked pretzels in cooking, crafted lanyards in art, and took a field trip to see the newest Minions movie. Tiyul took an exciting overnight trip to San Diego and enjoyed cooler weather and time at the beach! We also had an extra special Shabbat with a visit from Rabbi Billy, and Tyler led the group in a special song written by beloved past Camp Director Scott Zorn (otherwise known as “Shabbat Scott”). Scott was a counselor to many of our current camp staff when they were young and it was meaningful to reflect on their journey from camper to counselor!
Participants in our Disability Program Services programs enjoyed the last of their summer concerts with a performance by Chelsea Cannon, who sings professionally in the Tucson Symphony Orchestra Chorus, Helios Choral Ensemble, and Chamber Choir. Connecting with music can be an important tool for all of us on our journeys, providing comfort in challenging times, and amplifying our joy in good times.
As we reflect on the journeys of the Israelites and our own, may we find strength in the people who walk beside us and purpose in each step along the way. Wishing you a peaceful Shabbat filled with connection, renewal, and the joy of being part of a community that journeys together.
Reminders, Resources + Learning
Each week we share resources for more learning:
This week’s resources:
- Keeping Our Word by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks
- Lost Stories by Cantor Gershon Silins (My Jewish Learning)
- Getting Our Priorities Straight by Rabbi Yehoshua B. Gordon (Chabad)
Last week’s resources:
- Pacing Change by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks
- The Daughters of Zelophehad: Power and Uniqueness by Rabbi Silvina Chemen (My Jewish Learning)
Is there a topic you’d like to learn more about? Email Jenn Selco with requests.