For the People of the Book
Just as our ancestors read from the Tanakh each day, there are many reasons why we must do so as well.
First... to benefit from Jewish wisdom and guidance as contained in the mitzvot interwoven into this timeless text. As Jews, we want to know God's plan, which gives meaning to our lives.
The Tanakh is a tapestry containing the threads of God's plan.
Second... to discern the midot, or values, that distinguish us as Jews. Jewish values are unique -- but they are not transmitted genetically.
The Tanakh is the ultimate source of these values.
Third... to become familiar with the architects of our religion and the times in which they lived. We are who we are because of our history. The promise of Israel; the Exodus and the Temple; the Exile and the Prophets; all play a major role in defining Jews and Judaism.
The Tanakh makes it possible to "experience" our history.
Fourth... to be guided by the ethics and moral standards that challenge us to become God-like in our daily behavior. Jewish ethics are not time bound. They are Divinely inspired, but they are not inaccessible.
The Tanakh makes it possible to be touched by Divine inspiration.
Fifth... to become enriched by the pattern of Jewish living. While its seed was planted in Biblical times, Jewish living has evolved through the ages. Judaism as we live it and celebrate it today is the fruit of that seed.
The Tanakh is the primary source that stimulated Rabbis and Sages throughout the ages to envision Judaism for their own generation. The Tanakh is our Jewish birthright.
Finally... we must read the Tanakh so that we can be lifted from viewing the world as it is, to a perch where we can glimpse a vision of what we can help it to become. Through seeing the universe from the mountains on which Abraham and Sarah, Moses and Miriam, stood, and through feeling the passion of Esther, Ruth, David and Solomon, our lives take on a new and important meaning, a sense of purpose.
The Tanakh blends holiness and humanity. It challenges us to live our lives so that we will make a positive difference to others.
If you lack knowledge, what have you acquired? If you acquire knowledge, what do you lack? (Midrash Rabbah)
