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This is our fourth issue of TAMUZ, marking our first full cycle. Each issue has explored a specific theme, grounding it in current events and real issues that we face both here in America and in Israel. Just as our first issue focused on the new year, so too does this Fall issue, as we celebrate the Jewish New Year, entering the year 5783.

The High Holidays, coming out of summer and heading into the fall, are a time to pray for rain. We both change the words in the silent prayer from mentioning “dew” to asking for “rain” as well as celebrate the Simchat Beit Hashoeva, Rejoicing of the Water Drawing House, during the intermediary days of Sukkot. In the days of the Temple, the Beit Hamikdash would include a special water libation ceremony followed by intensive dancing, singing, and celebration.

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This focus on praying for and celebrating water directly following the start of the Jewish New Year highlights the centrality of water to life. Directly after our repentance and prayer for spiritual sustenance in the new year, we pray for continued physical sustenance and a positive judgment of our water supply.

Unfortunately, our prayers are more important now than ever. Major droughts continue in the U.S., with the levels of rivers and reservoirs dropping in key supply locations. The Middle East is no exception. Surprisingly, however, Israel has managed to overcome this problem with a focus on innovation. We delve deeper into the country’s water management and innovations in “The Source of Life, an Opportunity for Peace ” on page 15.

Our team also explored water as a tool: in exercise, in therapy, and in life. The Nia Movement uses water as its basic mindfulness practice, to sense the flow of stimulating brain and body information and lead practitioners into a more fluid, relaxed, powerful, conscious, and satisfying way to move, be, and live. Beit Issie Shapiro splashes onto the scene by helping those in need through the healing power of hydrotherapy. Explore both of these incredible organizations in “A Gateway to Spiritual, Mental, and Physical Wellness” on page 23.

We hope that our blessings will flow like water, especially to those states and countries experiencing water scarcity. We encourage you to explore these resources for information on how to be more water conscious, from the states of Florida and California, the Environmental Protection Agency, and National Geographic:

25 Ways to Save Water 6 Steps to More Effective Water Conservation for Businesses WaterSense: Start Saving The Water Crisis

This issue marks the beginning of the Center for Israel’s fall season. You can learn more about some of our future events at the JCC here. We hope you join us!

Shanah Tovah U’Metukah! The TAMUZ Team

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