Apr 3rd 2008, 00:00

We have all been in a group setting where we felt part of the action, where we were engaged in the common activity, devoted to the cause, and dedicated to fulfilling the group’s goal. We have all also been in a group setting where we felt like an outsider, separated from what was going on, detached from the common goal and purpose, and not part of the action. Many factors go into whether or not we feel part of the group in a communal setting. Some of the factors have to do with the makeup of the group itself, some have to do with the goal or purpose of the group, and some have to do with who we are in relation to the group.

Numerous studies have been conducted to try to understand how and why people act in group settings. We know that peer pressure, for example, is very real and present not just among teenagers, but also among adults as well. We know that people are much more likely to engage in bad or illegal activity if they are in a group setting instead of alone and by themselves.

The study of human behavior has always fascinated me. At UCLA, I studied Sociology, which is the study of why people do what they do. I still remember learning about all those interesting experiments that helped scientists and researchers understand the mystery of people and their actions, individually and communally. For additional insight, I never needed to look any further than our Torah.

This week’s Torah portion is called “Vayakhel,” which means “(Moses then) convoked.” He assembles together the people to speak to them to give them specific instruction on observing Shabbat and on the construction of the tabernacle, the temporary sanctuary they carried with them through the wilderness. A few chapters earlier in the text the same word is used but in a different form. Exodus 32:1 states “vayikahel” in describing how the people assembled to rebel against God in building the Golden Calf. The use of this verb in two different forms was not lost on our Torah commentators.

Clearly, when groups assemble it can be for good or evil purposes. Most groups are much more than the sum of their parts, and that is what makes group action so powerful. It is also what makes group think and group action so potentially dangerous, especially when the group acquiesces its power to a charismatic leader.

In our Torah portion this week, the people are given a second chance. They are brought together and given the opportunity to atone for their former mistakes. Now instead of creating for evil, they will create for good. Instead of erecting a false god, they will erect a House of and for God within which to dwell. Instead of losing themselves in group think and group action, they will maintain their individuality as they come together for a common, positive purpose.

Tonight at Temple we will have a very special musical service. Instead of using prayer books, the words will be projected up on a screen and we will be using some new and different melodies. Tonight's service will be a little different and certainly something new. Tomorrow, Torah Study and Shabbat morning services as usual. I hope you have a great Leap Day and a great weekend.