The first commandment that the newly freed Jewish nation received is the blessing of the new moon:
marking the introduction of the lunar calendar.
The lunar calendar adds another element to the way we are included in the creation.
The sun is steady: never changing. This mirrors the parts of the creation that never change and that we have no influence on. This structure and stability is important, but it is imposed on us and exists unrelated to anything we do.
The moon, however, is constantly changing: symbolizing the influence we have on creation. The introduction of the lunar calendar was G-d inviting us to be partners with Him in creation: charging us with the task of rectifying the world to make it a better place.
Until this point, we lived in a world of absolutes, without the opportunity or responsibility to effect change.
When freed from slavery, a new element was added to the world: the lunar calendar introduces this new relationship with G-d. As a free people, we now have a responsibility as G-d’s partners in the world.
True freedom comes with accountability and the mandate to improve the world for all.
