Judaism acknowledges virtually every aspect of the human condition. It helps us to celebrate life’s best moments and gives guidance at times of need. Often, our greatest time of need is when we experience the loss of someone we love.
Our tradition helps us to deal with such loss with grace and dignity, giving us ways to acknowledge our pain as well as a roadmap to re-enter the world. This week, Rabbi Woznica shares some of the uplifting wisdom of our tradition.
The Afterlife
While Judaism is clearly a “this world”-centered religion—that is, one’s focus should be on making this world a better place—it is my understanding that Judaism passionately affirms a life beyond this world. The Talmud has countless references to Olam Haba, the “World to Come,” where the good are rewarded and the evil punished.
We know that life is not always fair. Only a just God can create ultimate justice. Moreover, for all of us who have lost a loved one and for all who will, the knowledge that their soul rises and is cradled in the hands of God is a source of comfort.
The Torah records that Moses died at the age of 120 (Deuteronomy 34:7) and to this day, Jews will affectionately say, “You should live to 120.” With the advancements in medicine, that may occur in the not-too-distant future. And yet, regardless of one’s age, when the time comes, I believe there is a God who waits—along with many previous generations of loved ones— to welcome us home with open arms.
Judaism teaches that on Shabbat one receives an “additional soul.” As we enter the holiest day of the week, may we also feel the souls of our loved ones alongside.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi David Woznica
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P.S. If it is of interest, the topic of Rabbis Woznica’s most recent High Holiday sermon was “A Jewish Perspective on the Afterlife.” Click to watch.