The topic of marriage has become a dominant theme in this week’s holiday observance of Shavuot as well as this week’s Torah portion of Naso and has implications for the trials and tribulations that we as a nation are undergoing presently.

SHAVUOT AND MARRIAGE – AFTER THE HONEYMOON

In reference to Shavuot which is commemorated starting this Thursday night in Israel and in the diaspora (extending an additional day over Shabbat in the diaspora) , the topic of marriage in a more generalized sense is depicted in an interesting article written by Marc Eichenbaum entitled After the Honeymoon: Why Shavuot is Compared to Marriage.”

In the article, the author describes the parallel relationship between the Jewish people and G-d and to couples themselves with the concomitant highs and lows after the Honeymoon and Hollywood lights and cameras are removed. In summation he says that “Shavuot not only teaches us how to improve our relationship with God, but offers a roadmap as to enhance our relationship with our partners as well.” I highly recommend reading the original article!

THE MARRIAGE OF RUTH AND BOAZ

Marriage is likewise given prominence in the story of Ruth read by Jewish tradition on Shavout. In the book, the lineage which gave ultimate birth to King David is depicted with the story of how the Moabite Princess Ruth was introduced by divine destiny to Boaz, considered the judge and prominent member of his generation. Although the circumstances of the marriage are not exactly a “shidduch date” and more of a result of Boaz picking up the concept of the yibbum (levirate) marriage mantel, none the less as a result of their union, they had a son named Obed, who became the father of Jesse and David was the great grandson........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)