Day 3 - One For The Books!

After our delicious breakfast at the Kibbutz (fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, cheeses, olives, eggs, dairy assortments, varieties of bread, jams, chocolate spread, cereal... Need I say more), we hopped on the bus and ventured to Tzfat, the ancient city of Kabbalah. We learned more about Kabbalah from a local artist and Kabbalah follower named Avram. In a few short and insufficient words, it is the foundation of Jewish mysticism or spirituality, and is often studied as a supplement to the Torah for those who want to have their minds blown man!!! (Avram knows what's up). Avram explained that through the Kabbalah, one learns the meaning of their Hebrew name and what that signifies for their own life path. The Kabbalah also teaches the meaning of universal compassion and goodness as a means to reach the ultimate love and connection with God. Avram showed us his incredibly beautiful artwork, adapted from musical tones and frequencies, concepts of universal goodness, and unique interpretations that capture the significance of Kabbalah to him.

I was blown away, along with many birthrightees from the group, and some of us even purchased his prints that held personal meaning for us as well. One of his pieces was a simple black and white contrast, with two Hebrew letters on top of each other. It reminded me of the yin-yang symbol. Through this painting, Avram explained that in life, there is a balance of giving and receiving, however to reach the ultimate connection to eternal goodness and God, one understands that they must give more than receive. He was a spirit filled with love and light, and being here with him was more than an honor (or what he would call a miracle). I felt so connected to Israel and to the group in this moment, and realized that nothing is an accident. We are all here together on this journey and that is the most amazing part. After 2000 years... Israel... The first people of our ancestors to be here. Whoa man! So awesome!