Our "College and Career" group is called Tzemakh. The word literally means aplant in the sense of its ability to sprout, thrive and grow. Not only does the name Tzemakh reflect our synagogue's messianic affiliation, it also describes the nature of an emerging generation of young people that make up our twenties and thirties group at Beit HaShofar. This group comprised of both those who have grown up in our synagogue and newer members who have recently found a home with our community, is bringing and will continue to bring new life to our congregation.
The word tzemakh literally means aplant in the sense of its ability to sprout, thrive and grow. In the Shmoneh Esrei's blessing of the messianic rule, our sidur refers to Mashiach as את צמח דוד(Et tzemakh David), The plant of David. Rabbi Nosson Scherman in his commentary on the sidur notes that this messianic reference implies that the "redemption [of Mashiach] is like the barely noticeable daily growth of a plant." (ArtScroll sidur pg. 108) Other commentaries on this messianic title explain that the advent of Mashiach will be like the sudden sprouting of a plant which breaks through the earth, seemingly, out of nowhere. These two ideas are not in conflict. The most surprising growth undergone by a plant is that slow process taking place underground which is hidden only to be revealed in a quick moment. For this reason it is written both, ואף על פי שיתמהמה עם כל זה אחכה לו "Though he tarry, I will wait every day for him," and כן בא אני מהר "Behold I come quickly." The arrival of Mashiach is a gradual, and at the same time, instantaneous event.
Like the flourishing of a plant from a dry seed, our sages have taught that the revelation of Mashiach will be like life from the dead; redemption will come from an impossible source.
Not only does the name tzemakh reflect our synagogue's messianic affiliation, it also describes the nature of an emerging generation of young people that make up the twenties group at Beit HaShofar; a group that has recently sprung up, seemingly, out of nowhere. This group comprised of both those who have grown up in our synagogue and newer members who have recently found a home with our community, is bringing and will continue to bring new life to our congregation.
Torah from the Couch is Torah-learning the easy way! Get together with your friends at Beit HaShofar to take advantage of some of the amazing video shiurim (Torah lessons) floating around cyberspace and on DVD. Torah from the Couch is an opportunity to drop in on Torah classes delivered by rabbanim from highly rated yeshivahs all around the world-from the comfort of a sofa! There will be drinks, food to nibble (kosher dairy), and open minded discussion after the lesson, so come prepared to have a great time!
If you would like to use the change from your couch to help support ours, we will have a tzedakah box sitting out, but Torah from the Couch is an absolutely free event!
On Tuesday nights many collect for coffee and in-depth Torah learning facilitated by our rabbi and enhanced through the open dialogue of those gathered. Read More
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The Goalof T'nuat Noar Tsippor is the integration of each young person, post b'nei mitzvah age, fully into Judaism and Synagogue life. Our hope i...
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An all women's group dedicated to learning, bonding, and growing in Torah and in Jewish life. Come be a part and participate in meaningful discussions, tzedakah and mitzvah opportunities, and spiritual g...
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On Tuesday nights many collect for coffee and in-depth Torah learning facilitated by our rabbi and enhanced through the open dialogue of those gathered. 
The Goal of T'nuat Noar Tsippor is the integration of each young person, post b'nei mitzvah age, fully into Judaism and Synagogue life. Our hope i...
