In The Wilderness: Numbers in Haiku

Numbers

survival demands
we become community
in the wilderness

B'midbar

each of us counted
to build strong community
each of us needed

Naso I

Always there's a path
To repent and become whole
If you take the steps

B'haalot'cha

To be united
Requires patient mercy
We wait for Miryam

Sh'lach L'cha

With help from Moses
Thirteen principles invoked
God models mercy

Korach

The unpaid labor
Uplifts us all to sacred
Must be supported

Chukat

When fear rises up
It can challenge the whole group
We must our fears

Balak

Ignore the message
Of those less privileged
You might miss angels

Pinchas

Our holy tribe
Is open to a rules change
When injustice shows

Matot

Pioneers who lead
Whether coerced or by choice
Can cause seas to part

Masei

How we use our space
Impacts harmony and peace
Planning required