From the Fire to Freedom:

Reflections on Parashat Tzav and the Journey of the Omer

As we prepare for Passover and begin the sacred practice of Counting the Omer, Parashat Tzav reminds us of the enduring flame—“a perpetual fire shall be kept burning on the altar, it shall not go out” (Leviticus 6:6). This verse became the foundation for this week’s Torah illustration.

The fire on the altar is not just physical—it’s symbolic of our spiritual passion, our persistence in times of hardship, and our commitment to transformation. We each carry a sacred flame within us. Sometimes it flickers. Sometimes it roars. And sometimes, like in the story of the Exodus, we walk through the darkness with nothing but the light of our own faith.

For those interested in my creative process, here are some of the sketches and previous illustrations of this verse.

A Prayer for Parashat Tzav

Here’s the prayer I wrote for this week.

In this time of uncertainty—
our own personal mitzrayim—
may we have faith that, like our ancestors,
we too can journey towards freedom.

May we grow in resilience, trust, and love,
and stay grounded in gratitude
as we deepen our connection to God.

May we keep hope in our hearts
and gain strength from the challenges we face.
May we be blessed to find light in the darkness,
and to shine a light for others.

The Power of Communal Practice

As we move closer to Pesach, I’m also reflecting on one of my favorite spiritual practices—Counting the Omer in community. For the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of gathering each night between Pesach and Shavuot with others who are committed to doing this sacred work. Together we fulfill the mitzvah of counting, reflect on the daily sephirot pairing, journal, and share.

It’s a meaningful, grounding practice for me, and if the concept resonates, you are welcome to join us nightly at 10 pm ET from April 13-May 31, on Zoom. Please let me know if you’d like the Zoom link.

Guided Journaling Prompts

This week, I invite you to reflect on the following:

1. What does “a perpetual fire” mean to you in this season of your life?
2. What inner flame are you nurturing? Where does it need tending?
3. As we move toward freedom, what parts of your personal mitzrayim are you ready to leave behind?
4. What spiritual practices help you stay grounded in gratitude and trust?
5. How might you be a light for someone else during this season of transformation?

A Gift for Your Seder Table

As my gift to you, I’m including three Passover-themed coloring pages. You are welcome to download and print them for use at your Seder. May they bring creativity, joy, and connection to your celebration.

Closing Blessing

May the eternal flame of hope burn brightly within you.
May your journey from constriction to freedom be filled with meaning.
May you walk with faith, with courage, and with love.
And may you always remember—
You carry light within you.
Shine it generously.