Schabbatons in Weimar: Hope and unity in stormy times

Schabbatons in Weimar: Hope and unity in stormy times

in Weimar, the birthplace of great literary works, many visitors gather to explore the traces of the important poet Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and Friedrich Schiller. This cultural heritage recently paid attention to a special event: a Shabbaton of the Jewish community of Chabad Berlin attracted around 130 participants who experienced an inspiring weekend in the Congress Hotel, which under the motto "Shabbat. Together." stand. In a room that was referred to as "Salon Goethe", the services took place and welcomed those present with the ceremonial candlestick and Kabbalat Shabbat.

An important part of the program was the lectures and discussions. Rabbi Yosef Lew from Georgia (USA) spoke about the "care of God from America to Israel" and the personal responsibility of everyone in the greater whole. In other lectures, Rabbi Moshe Rochlin addressed the importance of self -knowledge, positive thinking and powerful relationships. Children were particularly taken care of, who were able to experience their own programs with games and prayers.

A look back at the Jewish culture

The festival was not only a religious gathering, but also a look back at the cultural roots. Schiller, a connoisseur of the Bible, often approached quotes and allusions from the Jewish faith in his works. In his lecture "Die Die Moses program" in particular, Schiller deals with the idea of ​​religion as a moral support, while Goethe, shaped by a Christian environment, often expressed ambivalent views of Jews. His access to Jewish culture was characterized by personal encounters and a respectful way of dealing with biblical texts, even if some of his works have stereotypical representations.

Goethe's appreciation of the biblical authors is undisputed and shows himself in his lifelong occupation with these texts. He visited Judengasse in Frankfurt, whereby these experiences shaped his view sustainably. Despite his ambivalent attitude, Jews in Goethe often found an important point of reference and estimated his works. This illustrates the complex relationship between Goethe, Schiller and Jewish culture.

an inspiring weekend

Back to the Shabbaton: Participant Marina expressed her enthusiasm for the authentic course of the Shabbat. Alexander also led the importance of the lectures for a new life view. But this inspiring weekend was overshadowed by the current situation: News about rocket attacks on Israel ensured special concerns among many guests who have family and friends in the region. Rabbi Yehuda Teichtal emphasized the need for connection and hope in difficult times and summarized the weekend with the words: "It was an unforgettable weekend that raised the soul, strengthened connections and reminded us of the power of Jewish unity."

The event not only illustrates the deep cultural connections between the Jewish tradition and our great poets, but also offers a space to come together in times of uncertainty and to support each other. The value of community and the insight into versatile perspectives such as those of Goethe and Schiller show that literary history remains relevant.

For more information about the event and the background to Judaism in the literature, take a look at the reporting of Jewish general Connected cultural meanings, as well as the extensive analysis of Ursula Homann and the critical considerations at literary criticism .