The Haftarot of Shavu’ot
On the first day of Shavu’ot the haftarah is from the Book of Ezekiel (Ezek. 1, and 3:2).
The link with the Torah reading is that both readings celebrate the Divine Revelation. The Torah reading centres on God revealing His will and the haftarah celebrates a grand inspiring vision.
The prophet Ezekiel lived in distressing times but he maintained his spirit of optimism because despite the difficulties of the period he had visions of the glory of God who would rebuild the Temple and once again breathe life, hope and joy into the dry bones.
On the second day the haftarah is from Habakkuk (2:20-3:19). Habakkuk too lived in a period of calamity. Tempted to abandon belief in God, he says, “How long, O Lord, shall I cry and You do not hear?” The Chaldean enemy is fierce and frightening.
Refusing to place his trust in idols, the prophet regains his faith in God and says, “We shall not die! You have ordained judgment for them, and though we have to wait, You will punish them and show us Your glory”.
