Beyond the Bema

Throughout Jewish history and tradition, being “called” to a task has held deep meaning.  Unlike a mere urge or personal ambition, a “calling” is often seen as a spiritual or moral summons—an inner voice urging us toward a particular path or responsibility. For many Jewish people, experiencing such a calling is both an intimate and communal journey, shaped by teachings, stories, and cultural values.

Jewish people understand vocation, or being “called,” as deeply rooted in the Torah and other sacred texts. From the moment Abraham is commanded, “Lech Lecha—go forth” (Genesis 12:1), to Moses’s acceptance of leadership at the burning bush, the recurring theme is one of individuals responding to a higher purpose. These stories show that answering a “calling” usually takes bravery, humility, and readiness to support something beyond your own interests.

Judaism is unique in its balancing act between the collective and the individual. The Jewish people are described as “a kingdom of priests and a holy nation” (Exodus 19:6), but this collective purpose also allows room for individual development and unique contributions.  Everyone is inspired to discover their unique part in repairing the world, known as tikkun olam.  Whether your calling is in teaching, social justice, arts, business, or nurturing a family, the Jewish lens frames these choices within a broader context of responsibility and meaning.

Discovering your true calling is usually a gradual process.  It might begin as a gentle curiosity, a nagging question, or even a strong sense of worry about something happening in the world.  Jewish tradition invites us to listen closely—to the needs of the community, to the wisdom of elders, and to our own souls. Practices such as study, prayer, and conversation help clarify direction. The ancient rabbis taught, “In a place where there are no leaders, strive to be a leader” (Pirkei Avot 2:5), suggesting that the call to act can arise from the circumstances around us as much as from within.

Responding to a calling is seldom a comfortable process.  It may require stepping out of well-trodden paths, confronting resistance, or making sacrifices. Jewish history is filled with figures who wrestled with doubt—Moses questions his own adequacy, Esther hesitates before risking her life, Jonah even tries to flee his mission. Yet, their stories reassure us that feeling unprepared or afraid is part of the journey. The important thing is to respond, with faith and integrity.

Living out one’s calling means weaving personal purpose into the rhythm of Jewish life—through mitzvot (commandments), acts of loving-kindness, and engagement with the world. It’s about asking: How can I make a difference? How does my Jewish identity inform my choices? How do my actions reflect my values? Whether your impact is public or private, each step toward your calling resonates within the ongoing Jewish story.

Ultimately, being “called” as a Jewish person is both a gift and a responsibility. It means listening for that quiet nudge or burning passion, and responding in ways that honor our ancestors, our community, and our own unique soul. The journey is ever-evolving—but within it lies the heart of Jewish meaning and purpose.

As a relatively recently converted Jew, I struggled a bit with my calling. I am blessed that my Rabbi and Cantor let me play the bass guitar for special occasions. Sharing the “arts” with people spreads a musical light that you can see when you look out into the audience. But I always felt a pulling for something just a little bit more. I wanted to go back to college and become a librarian. I work at a library in the technical aspect of things but have really fallen in love with librarianship and what it has to offer. Becoming a librarian sharpens my skills to help spread literacy to our patrons. Spreading the gift of literacy is another way to make the world a better place. As I am writing this, I actually start Graduate school today. Tikkun Olam. That is a purpose that drew me even deeper into Judaism and I am so happy that I now know my place in this world as a Jewish person!