Commenting on the verse, and noting “MaTovu”, Sforno, a medieval Jewish Italian biblical commentator, suggests that its uniqueness is, “because the existence of these Jewish spaces of learning and gathering are not only of benefit to the people who are in them — but that they also are good in a transitive sense, that is that their very existence is of benefit to all.”
Our MaTovu team sees a lot of truth in this 500-year-old teach- ing. We believe deeply that our “neighborhood center” will find success through prioritizing equity, neighborhood engagement, and pluralism of Jewish practice and ideas. MaTovu is creating a space that is accessible and open to all, regardless of race, gender, class, religion, ability status, and sexual orientation. We intentionally welcome Jewish and non-Jewish groups from the neighborhood and other parts of the City — and look forward to hosting a rich diversity of Jewish programming that will enhance our community’s knowledge, practice, and social connection.