Create a Sanctuary and Use It to Feel the Divine Presence

In Exodus 25:8-9, God says, “Build for me a sanctuary (mikdash), and I will dwell among you.”  In this one verse from the Torah, or Old Testament, lies an invitation for each of us.  We are asked to create a sanctuary in which to join together with God.  An extremely detailed description of how to [...]

Practical Spirituality: Using Your Hands in Service to God

hand washing

Starting today, about once a week you will find a practical spiritual practice here on As the Spirit Moves Me. The tip may come from the Jewish tradition or from other major religious tradition, such as from Christianity, Islam, or Buddhism. These practical spiritual practices are meant to be adaptable by anyone, and they also [...]

Creating Rituals for Your Life-Cycle Events

waves

I turned 50 last week. Although I really don’t feel 50 and I didn’t have much psychological “stuff” around turning 50, I felt the need to mark this event in some way with a ritual. So, I asked a few friends if they might help me do so. The first friend took me off to [...]

Why Anyone Can and Should Participate in Sukkot's Rituals

In my last post I talked about the Sukkot rituals of both building a sukkah and shaking the lulav, and then I promised I’d explain how and why anyone-Jew and non-Jew alike-might want to consider taking on these Sukkot rituals. Today, I’d like to make good on that promise. You don’t have to be Jewish [...]