This coming Monday and (outside Israel) Tuesday are the holiday of Shavuos, the “Feast of Weeks.” It is given this name because, unlike any other holiday on the Jewish calendar, it always occurs precisely seven weeks and one day after the beginning of Passover — rather than on a precise date. Since Hebrew months can vary between thirty and thirty-one days depending upon the cycle of the moon, it was possible for Shavuos to arrive on any of three different dates on the calendar.

On Shavuos, the Jewish Nation experienced G-d’s Revelation at Mt. Sinai. This is the same nation which had just emerged from the depths of slavery in Egypt — and they needed time to prepare, time to grow, to be ready to receive the Torah. Thus the seven weeks between their freedom and the Revelation were a crucial period.

The last three days, however, were the most critical period — when additional preparations went into effect. That is where we are now, and even if we have not taken advantage of the last seven weeks, we can begin thinking and preparing now for a new opportunity to receive Torah.

It is a great pity that Shavuos is the “neglected holiday” on the American Jewish calendar. Caring Jews who eat Matzah on Passover, and are at least vaguely aware of the concept of a Sukkah, may nonetheless have no idea that Shavuos is around the corner. It has no special sign like Matzah — only Torah learning itself, and the lack of understanding of Shavuos and of Torah go together. This Sunday night is a tremendous opportunity to learn and grow. If you’ve never taken advantage before, it’s not too late to begin!