Get Married and Do Other Important Things Barefoot (Tetzaveh)
Torah Tuesday in (exactly) 100 words
My husband and I got married barefoot. We were otherwise fully dressed, but we wanted to – like Moses at the burning bush – make a spiritual-electrical circuit between us and the holy ground.
So I love that the Torah’s elaborate instructions for the garments of the high priest – with precious stones, gold chains, and pomegranate motifs – don’t mention footwear. According to tradition, the high priest went barefoot. Because if anything came between him and the earth, it would break the circuit.
When it really counts, take off your shoes and connect with the ground – the realest, holiest thing there is.
Every Tuesday I offer a thought on the Torah portion of the week (in 100 words, of course). This week’s Torah portion is Tetzaveh (Command), in the book of Exodus. In this parsha detailed instructions are given for the garments and ordination of the priests. Please share, comment, and join the conversation!
I've read this parsha many times and never noticed what *wasn't* there -- footwear! Thanks for opening my eyes to nakedness of the kohanic feet!
I always remove my shoes on the Bimah: I’ve been known as the barefoot rabbi.