Multifaith Chanting Circle: What’s in a Name

In January, we close out the book of Genesis and turn to Exodus, called Shemot, Names, in Hebrew, because it starts with a list of names of those who went down to Egypt with Joseph. Indeed, names are central to a number of Torah stories, including when Jacob is given the name Israel, so that his descendants — including all of us! — are called the Children of Israel. Why are names so important? Why does God have so many names in the Jewish tradition? Do each of us have a “true” name, even if it isn’t announced by angels or demons? We’ll explore the spiritual meaning behind names and naming in our January Chanting Circles, in addition to finding comfort, support, and community. Everyone is welcome to join — we often have representatives from a half dozen different faith communities during a given Chanting Circle. All of our January Chanting Circles will be held on zoom at 11:30 a.m., on the following Saturdays: January 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30. To join (everyone is welcome, and no prior experience is needed) just click: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83570030002?pwd=TE8xQ2NDTi8xSk83cnRSQXFMY2lUdz09 or from the Zoom app, enter Meeting ID: 835 7003 0002 and Passcode: Gratitude