#43 Masei  (Maqam Saba)

Maqam - a set of notes, with traditions that define the relationship between them, their patterns and expression.  A musical mode.  The Maqamat (plural) are patient, inwardly drawn, they are roomy enough for poetry. We worked the concept of the give-and-take between poetry and music.

Everyone’s right Or everyone’s wrong. These and these are the words of the living God [Eruvin 13b]

For three years they argued until a Bat Kol – a voice from heaven – eavesdropping on G*d’s messengers

We heard: This and also this [eilu v’eilu]. One prevailed because he was either humble or polite. The other severe.

One led with kindness. He led with the Great What It Is, the other led with potential: Much more severe. What it might be in the future, far future.

That’s ridiculous, you thought. We need Your wisdom and we need it now.

Too severe; the arguments haven’t settled out yet. It’s a someday thing. Someday somebody would get it but until they do lead with kindness; Humility Compassion: Both -- eilu v’eilu -- Both opinions are G*dliness.

For the sake of heaven, you used to say, string beads, be compassionate, be humble. We know that’s right.

There are so many stops on the way [42 to be exact] I can’t be sure any one is more meaningful than any other. I do know this: Every turn necessary every stop significant, and if the mountain isn’t mentioned?

It’s not because we weren’t there. I was there. You bet I was. And I’m going back again.