If ever Americans needed to celebrate July 4, this is the year. And if ever American Jews needed to observe July 4, this is absolutely the year. We are all being distracted and often enraged by attacks – or presumed attacks – on our patriotism, our integrity, and even our safety. Some of that is intentional, as a means of dividing us, frustrating us and making us feel powerless.

July 4 reminds us that we have the power to make miracles happen and that, as Americans, we have so much to be grateful for – and so much work left to do.

This commemoration is so rich in symbolism and ritual that it almost feels – dare I say – like a Jewish holiday. I once imagined how, were it in fact a festival ordained by the Torah and plotted out by the rabbis, Jewish legal sources would ordain its observance, especially when it coincides with Shabbat, as it does this year. Here is an updated........

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