A double celebrationThe Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and Shavuot

He who gives salvation to Kings and dominion to Princes whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom may he bless our sovereign Lady Queen Elizabeth, Charles Prince of Wales and all the Royal family. May the supreme King of Kings in his mercy preserve the Queen in life guard her and deliver her from all trouble and sorrow.

This blessing we recite every Shabbat in our Synagogue at the centre of our prayers in the presence of our Holy Torah scroll, to express and emphasise our deep appreciation and admiration to our Queen and Royal Family.

Our Monarch has been a supreme example of self sacrifice and devotion to her duties for the good of the country, never once compromising her dignity and her devotion for duty.

Long to reign over us, happy and glorious.

In ancient times, the Jubilee year meant freedom from slaves and restoration of land property to its original owners.

Our Jubilee too, is connected with the most basic freedomthe ability of citizens in this country to go about their daily lives in freedom.

The reign of Her majesty Queen Elizabeth II has seen a period of stability and continuity in this country, helping to desire the basic freedoms which enable us all to benefit and prosper.

And we also celebrate Shavuot over this special weekend. On Shavuot day the custom is to read the Book of Ruth, because King David who is a descendant of Ruth died and was born on this special day.

The question is still why the Book of Ruth? Perhaps it would make more sense to read King David's psalms instead?

The answer may be as follows; Ruth was a role model of self-sacrifice and kindness. King David as a direct descendant of Ruth was inspired and influenced by Ruth's life, which led him to write the Book of Psalms to praise and sing to the Almighty. This is why we read the Book of Ruth on this day, the day we received the Torah. The Torah, as well as being a way of life between man and G-d, is a way of life between man and fellow friends.

May the stability and peace expand to the entire world. Amen.