25 Elul

This is the traditional day of the beginning of Creation, as recorded in the first chapter of Genesis. While other religions 'start' their calendar from the founding of the religion, the Jewish calendar begins with Creation. In Jewish consciousness, every nation is integral to humanity: Non-Jews were welcome to bring offerings to the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, which the prophet Isaiah referred to as the "house for all nations." Technically, the Jewish calendar does not begin until day six of Creation (Rosh Hashana), which commemorates the birth of mankind. This is because human beings are the pinnacle of Creation, enjoined to protect the world and to utilize all its resources to bring the world to its spiritual completion.

The Children of Israel

'Mr. Goldblatt,' announced little Joey, 'there's something I can't figure out.'

'What's that, Joey?' asked Goldblatt.

'Well, according to the Bible, the Children of Israel crossed the Red Sea, right?'

'Right.''And the Children of Israel beat up the Phillistines, right?'

'Er, right.'

'And the Children of Israel built the Temple, right?'

'Again you're right.'

'And the Children of Israel fought the Egyptians, and the Children of Israel fought the Romans, and the Children of Israel were always doing something important, right?'

'All that is right, too,' agreed Goldblatt. 'So what's your question?'

'What were all the grown-ups doing?'