A unique, contemporary approach to Torah study, this book is simultaneously biblical and social commentary, written in a daily format that chronicles a difficult year.
In the field of biblical commentary, Hindsight is 2020 is a work that is both traditional and contemporary. Over the course of an entire year from March, 2020 through March, 2021, Rabbi Margie Cella wrote a daily study of the Torah, adding one entry for each of the seven sections of every one of the fifty-four weekly portions. Hindsight is written in the style of a journal, with each day’s writing dated and titled.
​
Motivated by her desire to make Torah study accessible to all, Rabbi Cella writes in a rich and engaging style that is easily readable and will appeal to a wide readership.
​
Her commentary presents a unique perspective reflective of the time in which it was written, drawing on the deeper meaning of the Torah to craft a response to both the Covid-19 pandemic and the political and social unrest of a difficult time whose lessons remain relevant today.
​
Examining the biblical text in this distinctive format allows Rabbi Cella to offer a more comprehensive analysis of the Pentateuch that is infused with her personal insights. Hindsight is 2020 is a timely work that casual and serious readers alike will find inspirational.
My Story
Rabbi Margie Cella is a dynamic second-career rabbi. After retiring from a 30-year career as a high school mathematics teacher, she began her rabbinic studies at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America.
She received her ordination in 2019, along with an MA degree in Bible. She also holds an MA degree from SUNY at Stony Brook and a BS degree from Hofstra University.
Rabbi Cella is a member of the Rabbinical Assembly of America, the New York Board of Rabbis, the Suffolk Board of Rabbis, and the Jewish Speakers’ Bureau, as well as the New York State United Teachers Union.
​
She is currently the rabbi of the Jewish Center of the Moriches in Center Moriches, NY, as well as an educator for the Women’s League for Conservative Judaism. She previously served as interim rabbi for Congregation Agudas Israel in Newburgh, NY.
​
Rabbi Cella is a dynamic, inspirational teacher and speaker, and she enjoys sharing the teachings of Judaism with audiences of all ages. She is especially interested in text study, and has a special interest in all things related to Mathematics, including Gematria. She also loves to travel and explore new places, and to take in Broadway shows.
​
This is Rabbi Cella’s first book, reflecting her love of biblical exegesis, and her desire to inspire others to delve into the mysteries of the Torah. She is currently writing her second book, a personal memoir of her journey to Judaism and ultimately to the rabbinate.
​
She lives in Port Jefferson Station, NY, where she and her husband Raymond are surrounded by the love of their children and grandchildren.
