Dancing Heals the Soul

This Friday evening, we will celebrate the joyous holiday of Simhat Torah when we mark the conclusion of the Torah reading cycle and then its immediate beginning. We chant the last verses of Deuteronomy and the first verses of Genesis.

The cycle never stops. As soon as we conclude the reading, we begin it again. Torah defines our lives. It encircles our year.

And so, it is our custom to unroll the entire scroll around the sanctuary. It is an extraordinary site and one not to be missed. We are reminded that Torah defines us. We behold how Torah encircles us.

This holiday is also marked by additional music and song, celebration and dancing. Allow me to focus on dancing.

Everyone can grab the opportunity to dance on Simhat Torah. Everyone can grab hold of the Torah and start moving their feet. The hakafah, the circling of the sanctuary and dancing with the scrolls, can offer us much needed strength for the year ahead.

And yet, I wonder why people are often reticent to dance. We should take to heart the words of the Hasidic master, Rebbe Nachman of Bratslav. He said: “Get into the habit of dancing. It will displace depression and hardship.”

This is certainly what I believe. I admit. Sometimes it might appear that I have shpilkes on the bima. But my feet are moved by our tradition’s prayers. The music and songs overtake my legs. This is why I can often be found on the dance floor at the many simchas I am privileged to attend.

The joy overtakes me. It commands my feet to move. Rejoicing overwhelms my being.

Take this to heart. Dancing cures most ailments of the soul.

Get into the habit of dancing!