B’haalot’cha
Numbers 8:1 - 12:16
Précis: The parasha begins with a description of the making of the seven-branched menorah, a (the?) central Jewish symbol. Next, the Levites are given specific directions for their duties. The parasha returns to narrative with a recounting of a second Passover celebration (required because some of the Israelites had been ritually impure when the first anniversary of Passover was celebrated). Next comes a discussion of the making of silver trumpets. The cloud of God’s Presence lifts, and the march of the People through the wilderness from Sinai begins, led by the Ark of the Covenant. The people begin to murmur, this time about a lack of meat. God provides, but the People are struck with a plague. This time, even Miriam and Aaron seem to have complaints about Moses, cast in terms of their critique about his “Cushite woman.” Moses is stressed by the demands of leadership.
Num. 8:24-25 “This is what pertains to the Levites: from twenty five years old and upward, they will go in to perform the service in the work of the Tent of Meeting; and from the age fifty years they will return from the service of the work, and will serve no more.”
These verses establish a retirement age for Levites in the performance of their work within the Tabernacle (and later in the Temple). Age 50 is established as the cut off date. Rashi tells us, however, that “retired” Levites were called upon from time to time to help out, and to act as guards.
As a retiree myself, I am indeed happy to say that it’s been extremely gratifying to be called upon by my congregation to offer advice and counsel on a range of matters, from dues and budgets to operating procedures. I may no longer be “employed” in the holy task of running a shul, but I can lend a hand from time to time.
It’s important to realize that many retirees have taken up new volunteer “careers” which are enhanced by their former professional experience. I am proud of my wife Abby’s actions helping to create a local community “village” – part of a growing movement across the country to foster community which once happened organically but now needs the attention and help of actively involved volunteers. While the movement had its origins in helping those who desired to “age in place” to do so, in some (like ours) it is a multi-generational effort supported not only by retirees, but also by empty nesters and families with young children. People helping people, neighbors helping neighbors.
Just as there was a role for "retired" Levites, there are important communal roles for all of us. All we have to do is raise a hand and help.
