A Rabbi’s Reflections

A Rabbi’s Reflections

Book Review of The 99 Names of God by Rabbi Yonassan Gershom:

Although The 99 Names is intended for Muslim children, it’s really a treasure for all ages and faiths. In fact, it could be used as a basic primer on spirituality, and would be a fine addition to any religious library. I defy anyone to read this book and not come away with a deeper appreciation of God’s presence in the universe.

Reflections on al-Azim, the Tremendous

Reflections on al-Azim, the Tremendous

with Matthew Bain

I find myself drawn to Allah’s names of majesty and wrath such as al-Azim, the Tremendous. Daniel chooses strong words and images on these pages: earthquakes, sinews, mountains, cracks and dust.

Through the cracks wrought by earthquake and mountain-splitting, there is always the leavening of light which Daniel invokes using a Leonard Cohen quote. Daniel could have gone back to Rumi for the original but it is in the spirit of this wonderful book to embrace variety and diversity wherever possible…

Reflections on as-Salam, the Source of Peace

Reflections on as-Salam, the Source of Peace

with Debra Shatoff

As infants, we are welcomed into this world by You, the Source of Peace, when we are gently placed on our mother’s chest, above her beating heart. We feel deeply cared for, warm and safe. When we are close to You, Beloved, there is that same deep feeling of inner peace, as if we are resting on Your tender chest. With each inhale and exhale, with as-Salam on our lips and in our heart, You draw us in, even closer. Perhaps this is what You speak of in the Holy Quran when You say You are closer to us than our jugular vein…