Parshat HaChodesh: Gateways to Growth
Yechezkel 45
וּבְב֨וֹא עַם־הָאָ֜רֶץ לִפְנֵ֣י יְהוָה֮ בַּמּֽוֹעֲדִים֒ הַבָּ֡א דֶּרֶךְ־שַׁ֨עַר צָפ֜וֹן לְהִֽשְׁתַּחֲוֺ֗ת יֵצֵא֙ דֶּרֶךְ־שַׁ֣עַר נֶ֔גֶב וְהַבָּא֙ דֶּרֶךְ־שַׁ֣עַר נֶ֔גֶב יֵצֵ֖א דֶּרֶךְ־שַׁ֣עַר צָפ֑וֹנָה לֹ֣א יָשׁ֗וּב דֶּ֤רֶךְ הַשַּׁ֙עַר֙ אֲשֶׁר־בָּ֣א ב֔וֹ כִּ֥י נִכְח֖וֹ יצאו [יֵצֵֽא]׃
On the fixed occasions, when the common people come before Hashem, whoever enters by the north gate to bow shall leave by the south gate; and whoever enters by the south gate shall leave by the north gate. They shall not go back through the gate by which they came in, but shall go out by the opposite one.
The pasuk from Ezekiel 45:16 outlines a specific protocol for those entering and exiting the Beit HaMikdash. It describes a practice where individuals entering through one gate must exit through the opposite gate. What was the purpose of walking in this unique path rather than using the same route? This seemingly straightforward instruction carries deeper significance, inviting reflection on the nature of routine and mindfulness in our lives. Rav Chaim Shmulevitz explains that this practice serves as a reminder of the tendency to become complacent amidst repetitive actions. By altering the path of entry and exit, individuals are prompted to engage with each moment consciously, fostering a sense of awareness and gratitude for the blessings present in everyday life.
In contemplating the wisdom behind this practice, it becomes apparent that routines can often dull our appreciation for the nuances of existence. The monotony of daily life may obscure the beauty and opportunities that surround us. Through the intentional deviation from the familiar, we are urged to approach each experience with renewed vigor and attentiveness. By embracing change and actively seeking mindfulness, we unlock the potential for growth and discovery in our lives.
As we navigate through times of hardship and transition, such as the aftermath of significant events like October 7th, it is natural to feel stagnated and overwhelmed. The disruption of routines and the weight of loss may cast a shadow over our ability to move forward. Yet, within these moments lies an opportunity for introspection and renewal. Just as individuals in the passage are directed to exit through a different gate, we too can choose to navigate life's challenges with resilience and adaptability.
Ultimately, the lesson from Ezekiel's passage transcends its historical context, offering timeless wisdom for navigating the ebb and flow of existence. It reminds us that life's journey is not meant to be traversed passively but rather embraced with intention and mindfulness. By embracing change, cultivating gratitude, and remaining open to new experiences, we unlock the transformative power of each moment, paving the way for personal growth and fulfillment.