Visit to Temple Beth Hatfiloh - Olympia, WA - January 28th, 2010

     What is the thing that seperates legalistic faiths from the reforms they go through later? Well, for one thing the interpretation behind the words is much greater and more based on the essence (the living of love) rather then the laws (considering many laws that existed years ago expressed in the Torah are clearly unethical - the stoning of prostitutes, of people who cheat on their spouses and people who are homosexual, ect.). These are laws that existed in Leviticus and the laws of Moses and because of this exist in Islam, Christianity and Judaism.

    The thing is even if the Book doesn't change, people do. For what's worth I think we have become more aware then we were back then. The types of torture that happen today pale in comparison to what institutions of power did to those without power. The cruelty was creative and public...like the stonings I mentioned from Leviticus. As society evolved more and more cultures got away from that and began practicing a culture of healing rather then punishment. Where you could live if you were a non-believer and not be killed for it, and where all faith traditions were protected. Though there are exceptions and even back then there was the culture of healing and tolerance in some instances. The role of women has also evolved to that of an equal role thankfully, which also involved getting away from what the Holy Books stated on the matter.

    What does this have to do with Temple Beth Hatfiloh though? Temple Beth Hatfiloh is a Reform Jewish Synagogue. It's been here when the first Jewish settlers arrived in the 19th century, though where they currently worship is new. Friday I visited them to get the rabbi's contact information and check out the Synagogue.

     What I noticed were two themes. Jewish identity with emphasis on music, literature and community, and an all inclusiveness. On the Youth Board there was Scholarship being offered for Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender youth. This is a living of the love of God for people and community. It's supporting people regardless of what horrifying things are actually said on the matter in regards and law and living what Rabbi Hillel (A Rabbi who predates Jesus) said in regards to the Torah.

    "That what is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow. That is the whole of the Torah; the rest is explanation; now go and learn." 

    Every religion has this teaching, yet it is the teaching more ignored historically it seems. It's so much easier hurt and disenfranchise other people who are different, yet the essence of what all faiths call on is for us not to do that. Temple Beth Hatfiloh shows that it is living that rule in it's actions.

This made me joyous and I look forward to getting to know the community better, celebrating Shabbat with them, and my interview with the Rabbi that I will be scheduling.