Parshat Miketz begins by describing Joseph’s emergence from the depths of imprisonment and aloneness.
Parshat Miketz begins by describing Joseph’s emergence from the depths of imprisonment and aloneness. In his aloneness he reaches a level of maturity of wisdom and it is noted on high. The text reveals that “God is with Joseph.” What does that mean? Inner strength? Wisdom? Hopefulness? Caring for others in need? Going beyond borders? Encouraging acts of Teshuvah, reconciling?
A little over 100 years ago a Russian Jew, Mendel Beiliss, was imprisoned based upon the accusation that he committed ritual murder. A trial eventually took place that caught the attention of the world. This trial displayed the atrocious antisemitic policies of the Russian government and the nature of antisemitism. Three plays were performed on the Yiddish stage about Mendel Beilis and the trial. Two novels were written about the event, one becoming the movie, the Fixer. Beiliss also wrote his own memoir in Yiddish. More than 4000 people attended his funeral in New York City in 1934.
Am Kolel decided to sponsor and premier a new play of the trial of Mendel Beiliss, The Colors of Red. Written by Am Kolel friend, Howard Eisner, it will be streamed through Facebook and YouTube this Sunday evening, appropriately on the eighth night of Hanukah, at 6:30pm. We will begin with the licht benchen. See more information and link below.
This weekend and coming week also commemorates the signing of UN Declaration of Human Rights.
We also want to bring to your attention a special presentation by Rabbi Ascherman, the founder of Torat Tzedek, a human rights organization based in Jerusalem, on Sunday morning. The topic, “My Zionism,” will address the struggles in Israel and Palestinian Territories over human rights today. Hosted by Kehila, Am Kolel is partnering in this event. For link please see below.
These two events address our struggles today as both victims and victimizers. As Joseph and his brothers, we must go deep in order to create a more just and peaceful world.
May the lights of Hanukah be with us all,
Reb David