Shir Shel Shavua

October 23, 2024

Evolve

Dear Friends,

This is a new song from my favorite band, Phish, called "Evolve." Whether or not lead singer and guitarist Trey Anastasio is aware of it, the song is undoubtedly a work of midrash, of creative biblical interpretations, essentially Torah "fan fiction."

It is a beautiful piece which presents Creation from God's own perspective, rather than through the voice of the omniscient "narrator" we are used to. It gives a rationale for the act of Creation, as well as an authentic, real-time take regarding the mistakes God made in doing so!

I find it to be both fascinating and powerful, as, in the end of the song, it speaks to our desire to be like God, to attempt to control everything. So often it seems like there are "a million little things to solve," when most often, whether we like it or not, the best response is to "let them all evolve."

Enjoy!

CONGREGATION BETH ISRAEL OF THE PALISADES