Rabbi Claude's Scribbles

Exodus 12:3,11 "Speak to the entire community of Israel and say: On the tenth of this month each man must take a lamb for his family; one for every household...this is how you shall eat it: your belts secured, the sandals on your feet, your staff in your hand. Eat it in haste: it is The Lord's Passover." (Rabbi Sacks' translation). 1770, 60, 3500, 800, 245 and 110,000 – what do these numbers signify? Along the east bank of the beautiful blue Danube river, an der schönen, blauen Donau, the water laps gently against the concrete walkway. The river has wound its way through three countries from its source in the Black Forest mountains of western Germany and now it is passing through Hungary. Eventually it will cover some 1,770 miles until it flows into the Black Sea, many miles to the east. Looking at the river from this vantage point, two Hungarian gentlemen, film director Can Togay and sculptor Gyula Pauer conceived and created a monument, erected in 2005 that once see

It is not an exaggeration to say that 'Harry Potter' is probably ubiquitous. Every few years, a new product is added to the ever-increasing 'HP' universe, whether this includes a West End Play (‘The Cursed Child’), a new prequel set of films (‘Fantastic Beasts’) or occasional tweets from his creator, Ms JK Rowling. Teaching children, I often throw an HP reference into the mix and at least one child's eyes start to widen excitedly at the prospect that Sir might be a 'Potterhead' - a serious fan of the books and/or films. Muggles like me (i.e. non-Wizards) might be interested in the adventures of said young man and his classmates, but that's about it. For those of you who think that I have 'lost the plot' and am writing this Sermon whilst ensconced in Hogwart's Secret Chamber (you'll have to read the book or see the film to understand that reference!). Please don't be too concerned as I assure you that the villain of the series, namely

Jacob Cohen is about to die.   He is sitting up in bed and is surrounded by his three children. He says to his oldest son, “David, you are my firstborn son.   I am so proud of your achievements.   Not only are you one of the top cardiologists in this country, your skills and reputation is renowned throughout the world.   I can't express how proud I am of you.   May Gd protect you and let His countenance continue shining on you.” David who is close to tears, replies, “Thank you Daddy.   I couldn't have achieved all of this without your constant support, especially when I was starting out in my career.” He turns to his daughter and says, “Miriam, my beautiful only daughter!   You have been there for me at all times, taking care of my every need, particularly since the tragic early death of your mother Esther.   I couldn't have wished for a better daughter.   You're also a pretty fine Solicitor.   May Gd bless you forever.” Miriam, who is sobbing, mouths the word