Blogroll | Congregation Darchei Noam

Everyone has a story. Let’s listen to each other and then work for democracy and enduring peace which is resting on truth, loving kindness and social and environmental justice. Won't it be great when we can truly experience, "How pleasant it is for neighbours everywhere to dwell and sit together in peace," as we sing Hinei ma tov u’manyim shevat achiym gum yachad!

There are many interpretations and translations of Hinei ma tov u’manyim shevat achiym gum yachad ( Psalm 133:1). One literal translation is “Behold how good and pleasant it is for brothers to sit/dwell together again as one. Achiym, brothers, has also been translated as brethren, kindred, and even people or folks.  

Adding “achot”, sisters, can give us, “How good and pleasant it is for brothers and sisters to join together in unity”. In support of diversity and inclusion, Cantor Juval Porat of Beth Chayim Chadashim, sings Ma Tov with the words “achiym,” “achot,” and “kulanu” (“all of us”).   

Here are links to several renditions of Ma Tov:

Sung in a contemplative mode at High Holidays, 5784. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUACRwP1j58

Hear it sung by Joshua Aaron at King David’s Tower with a reggae beat.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0E9_jRtrHc

There is an evangelical version by James Wilson. He adds the words, “Bind us together in love.”

Peace Blessing for the Planet and Humankind

Let us infuse this beautiful planet with our loving kindness.
Let us work to make Mother Earth and her creatures well and healthy.
May we create a world community of great joy, peace, and understanding.
May it be our will and the will of all humankind.
And may we bring a smile to God's face.

Blessing for Peace Adapted by Gloria Boxen