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| Volume 7 Issue 1 | Fall 2000 |
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In her book The Tapestry of Jewish Time, released this Spring, Rabbi Nina Beth Cardin shares with us her interpretations of the Jewish holidays and life cycle events--what they mean, why they remain so important to us, and how we can become weavers of our own personal tapestry of Judaism. We wanted to share with you pieces of a conversation with Rabbi Cardin about her views on spirituality, observance, and of course Senator Joseph Lieberman.
![[book cover]](../../../cat/covers/tapestryofjewishtime.jpg)
Why is the increasing emphasis on personal spirituality and home-based observance important to modern Judaism?
Traditional home observance was weakened during the middle part of the 20th century, and in response American Judaism promoted synagogue and organizational affiliation. Judaism became something you joined, not lived. But today we are increasingly reminded that while communal participation is important, Jewish identity is forged in the home. This is where we find the most powerful, and most permanent, Jewish experiences. So, even as we improve our schools and our synagogues, we must make equal efforts to strengthen the Jewish home.
The quality and texture of your personal observance is rich. What do you think your children will remember of their Jewish childhood?
I have always believed, and continue to believe, that my children will remember best the Friday night dinner table, the deliberate and enriching pace of Shabbat, bedtime blessings, and cleaning for Pesach. As they get older, I increasing believe, and certainly hope, they will remember our discussions of ethics, personal behavior, voluntarism, the issues of the seductiveness of America, and the importance of holding onto the essence of oneself.
What should be the single most important objective of Jewish education?
Igniting the desire to live a Jewish life. Learning is one stepping stone to that. Enabling families to create rich and engaging Jewish homes is another. And, as the parent inspires the child, so will the child inspire the parent, and a durable, reinforcing link in the chain of Jewish tradition will be forged.
What is the importance to our community of the Vice-Presidential candidacy of Senator Joseph Lieberman?
American Judaism now has a face. Anti-Semitism will not be generic, but personal, and Senator Lieberman's impeccable ethics will lay bare, more than ever before, the lies that form its basis.
Jews who may have hidden or distanced themselves from Judaism will be inspired to become more visible. And more Jews may see Shabbat as a gift and not a burden--the revolutionary concept of a true day of rest that was introduced to the world through the Torah generations ago may enjoy a resurgence for all to enjoy.
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