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The beginning of Fall on Prez Lawn.
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A Reflection from the University Chaplaincy
Dear Tufts community,
My religious sensibility has been profoundly shaped and nourished by the rich teachings of Kabbalah, the mystical tradition within Judaism. This tradition offers deep insights into the nature of the Divine and our relationship with the world. One of the most transformative concepts in Kabbalah is tzimtzum, the divine act of self-contraction that God undertook to create the universe. This idea is not just a theological abstraction; it has profound implications for how we live our lives, particularly in these times of intense political and ideological division.
Before the universe existed, all that was present was the boundless, infinite presence of God. In this state of pure unity, there was no room for anything else - no space for creation or diversity. To bring the universe into existence, God needed to initiate a process of self-withdrawal. This act, known as tzimtzum, involved God withdrawing a part of the divine presence, essentially contracting the infinite expansiveness to create a void. This void was not an emptiness but a purposeful space that allowed for the emergence of something other than God’s own essence. Through this act of divine retraction, God made room for the universe to arise, introducing the possibility of multiplicity, distinction, and new forms of existence within the previously undivided realm.
Reflecting on this, I am struck by how relevant tzimtzum is to the challenges we face today. We live in a time of intense political and ideological divides. Many are so entrenched in their own views, so convinced of their own rightness, that they struggle to make space for others - especially those who think, believe, or live differently than they do. This inability to contract ourselves, to step back from our certainties, creates an environment where division, rather than diversity, becomes the defining characteristic of our social and political landscapes.
In this context, tzimtzum offers a powerful and challenging invitation. It calls us to imitate the Divine by practicing our own form of self-contraction. This doesn’t mean abandoning our beliefs or compromising our values. Rather, it means cultivating humility to recognize that we don’t hold all the answers, and that we become wiser and the world richer and more beautiful when we make space for others.
This act of making space is not easy. It requires us to decenter ourselves, to let go of the need to compel others to see the world as we do, and to create space within ourselves to see the world the way others do. In this way, we participate in the ongoing work of creation. We help to build a world where multiple viewpoints can coexist, where differences are not merely tolerated but are seen as essential to the beauty and complexity of life.
In a time when our world seems increasingly polarized, the lesson of tzimtzum is more urgent than ever. Let us strive to imitate the Divine by practicing self-contraction in our own lives. In doing so, we can help to create a new reality—one that is more just, more compassionate, and more reflective of the divine image in which we are all created.
Warmly,
Naftali Bawer
Jewish Chaplain and Neubauer Executive Director of Tufts Hillel
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First-Year Experience Field Trip to Chinatown
Saturday, September 28th from 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Registration closes on Thursday at Noon. Please RSVP below.
The University Chaplaincy, thanks to an Advancing Religious Pluralism grant from Interfaith America, is offering field trips throughout this academic year for first-year students, beginning with a visit to Chinatown with Alice Kane, Director of the Chinese Historical Society of New England and Diane O'Donoghue, Director of the Public Humanities at Tisch College for Civic Life. All of these trips will allow students to explore Boston's diverse religious and cultural history through free monthly site visits, meals, and reflections alongside fellow first-years, student leaders, and chaplains. For more information about the exhibit, see this article about Endurance Streets on the Tisch College for Civic Life website. RSVP for the Chinatown site visit below and email elyse.nelson_winger@tufts.edu with any questions.
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A Time to Reflect: Bearing Witness to Our Shared Humanity in Turbulent Times
Join Tufts’ multifaith chaplains for campus-wide gatherings to remember, reflect, and honor our shared humanity in turbulent times. We know that so many are holding complex emotions. Join us as we make space, beyond words, to hold these deep cares, griefs and hopes. Turning to the rich symbols of clay and water, we will honor the unique and irreducible identities and experiences that make us who we are as a Tufts community.
Wednesday, September 25th, 2024
5:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Academic Quad, Medford
Thursday, September 26th, 2024
12:15 PM - 12:45 PM
Jaharis Park, Boston Health Sciences Campus
Friday, September 27th, 2024
12:15 PM - 12:45 PM
Agnes Varis Campus Center lawn, Grafton Campus
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Tufts Interfaith Ambassador Meet & Greet
Sunday, September 29th, from 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM on the Academic Quad by Goddard Chapel
The Interfaith Ambassador Team invites members of all Tufts' Religious and Philosophical Student Organizations (RPSO) for a Meet & Greet event. This event provides an opportunity for student leaders to meet one another and learn about each others' groups and plans for the year! Treats and refreshments will be provided. Please RSVP at your earliest convenience and plan on sending at least one board member as well as a member of your group. Of course, more are welcome to join!
RSVP here
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Ponder & Pause
Wednesdays, starting on October 2nd, Goddard Chapel
Join us each Wednesday, starting on October 2nd, for an opportunity to engage in spiritual practices that help us recenter, express gratitude, reflect on our lives, and care for others. Whether it's lighting a candle, walking the labyrinth, meditation, creating a prayer bead bracelet, or writing a card, all are welcome to engage in one or all of the practices.
A chaplain will be available from 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM to guide participants through stations, foster deeper reflection, and provide support. Take this time to pause, practice gratitude, and share this space in hope and healing for yourself and the community.
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Religious and Philosophical Events and Gatherings
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Our events and weekly gatherings are open to everyone in the Tufts community. You can find a calendar and descriptions of our regular events on our website. If you have an idea for a gathering or event, please contact the University Chaplaincy.
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Otherwise Humanisms with Tisch Library and the Humanist Chaplaincy
Wednesdays, September 25th, from 12:00 PM-1:15 PM at Tisch Library in the Tower Gallery
Join Tisch Library and the Humanist Chaplaincy this month for "Otherwise Humanisms," a curated collection exploring humanist perspectives beyond Western modernity. Gathering next on September 25th, come engage in thoughtful conversations every Wednesday from 12:00 to 1:15 p.m. at Tisch Library.
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Voices for Peace and Light
Rehearsals every Thursday at Goddard Chapel
All are welcome to sing with Voices for Peace and Light, the University Chaplaincy's interfaith, intergenerational choir. Membership is drawn from the greater Tufts community - students, faculty, staff, alum, and neighbors. We welcome experienced choral singers and people brand new to choral music. Rehearsals are Thursdays, 12:10 - 1:10 PM in Goddard Chapel. Please contact Music Director Suzie Cartreine at chaplaincymusic@tufts.edu for more information.
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Challah for Hunger – Challah Sale
Thursday, September 26th from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM in the Campus Center
Are you hungry? If so, stop by the Campus center to buy delicious Challahs! The current flavors are Chocolate Chip, Cinnamon Sugar, Everything Bagel, and Plain. 100% of the proceeds go to Family Table, one of the largest Jewish Food banks in the Greater Boston Area. For more events at Hillel, click here.
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Challenging White Christian Nationalism: A Dinner and Discussion Series
Wednesdays, 7:30 - 8:30 PM., September 18th through November 6th, Austin Conference Room, Tisch Library
Join Protestant Chaplain Dan Bell as we reflect on Bible passages that challenge white Christian nationalism, guided by excerpts from Jim Wallis’ book The False White Gospel. Free book copies are available. A pizza dinner will be provided. All are welcome. Contact: Daniel.Bell@tufts.edu
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Humanist Chaplaincy Fall Book Club
Wednesday, October 2nd, 12:00 PM - 1:15 PM at the Interfaith Center
Join the Humanist Chaplaincy's Fall Book Club! This semester, we will delve into We of Little Faith: Why I Stopped Pretending To Believe (and Maybe You Should Too) by Kate Cohen.
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High Holidays at Tufts Hillel 2024
October 2nd - October 24th
Join us for all or part of High Holidays, meals, and events. This year Hillel will cover 100% of the cost of all High Holiday meals for students! Please visit our website for all the information you need to know. We cannot wait to celebrate the new year with you.
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“Living Out the Lord’s Prayer” Fall Retreat
Friday, October 4th, to Saturday, October 5th, at Bethany House of Prayer
Protestant Chaplain Dan Bell and the Protestant Students Association invite you to a 24-hour retreat to Bethany House of Prayer, less than fifteen minutes from campus in Arlington, for a time of fun, fellowship, and guided reflections on the Lord’s Prayer (a.k.a., “The Our Father”). Registration, food, travel, and accommodations are all covered. We will depart campus Friday, Oct. 4, in the late afternoon and return the next day late afternoon. For more information, contact Daniel.Bell@Tufts.edu.
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The Road to Peace: A Collaborative Jewish-Christian-Muslim Discussion
Wednesday, September 25th from 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM at Hillside Community Church, 144 North Street, Medford
This Road to Peace panel and community conversation will feature Jewish, Muslim, and Christian thought leaders and peacemakers in a moderated and collaborative discussion and community conversation of justice and peace for the people of Israel and Palestine. The event is hosted by the Hillside Community Church & Sanctuary UCC Partnership in collaboration with the Islamic Council of New England, the Boston Workers Circle Center for Jewish Culture and Social Justice, and Massachusetts Peace Action. Click here to find more information.
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Upcoming Religious Celebrations and Observances
To see more upcoming religious holidays and festivals, including information about seeking religious accommodations at Tufts, please follow the link to the Tufts Multifaith Calendar.
Rosh Hashanah
Wednesday, October 2nd - Friday, October 4th, 2024
Tradition: Judaism
Begins at sundown on the first day listed. The Jewish New Year and the anniversary of the creation of humankind, Rosh Hashanah is the first of the Ten Days of Awe (also known as the Ten Days of Repentance) that conclude on Yom Kippur. It marks the beginning of the holiest time of the year for Jews. Observances may include limits to participation in academics or work.
Navaratri
Thursday, October 3 – Saturday, October 12, 2024
A nine-night (nav-rat) celebration of nine auspicious forms of Shakti/Devi (feminine divine power/the Goddess). Observances may include limits to participation in academics or work and may include fasting.
Fast of Gedaliah
Sunday, October 6, 2024
Tradition: Judaism
Begins at dawn. A minor Jewish fast. Observances during this time may include fasting.
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Support the University Chaplaincy
Supporting programs at Tufts University in religious, spiritual, ethical, and cultural life is easy and vital to our work. To donate, please click on the button below. Thank you for your generosity.
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The University Chaplaincy is a dynamic hub supporting religious, spiritual, ethical, and cultural life for all members of the Tufts community. We provide spiritual care, support religious and philosophical communities, educate about spiritual and ethical issues in society and the world, and promote multifaith engagement.
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