These past couple of weeks we have been treated to several juicy or “Jewcy” stories from the Torah portions.
These past couple of weeks we have been treated to several juicy or “Jewcy” stories from the Torah portions. From Chukat we learn of the death of Miriam and Aaron and the new challenges to leadership in the Israelite community. From Balak we learn of the efforts to stop the Israelites from reaching the Land of Promise and the surprise blessing they receive from the desert prophet Bilaam.
In this week’s Parsha we are surprised by the act of Aaron’s grandson, when, in an act of zealousness, murders a fellow Israelite and a Midianite princess having sexual relations. Apparently, things were getting out of control in the Israelite encampment. This act somehow brings the others to their senses so that the people can now move forward.
Another, more affirmative event, is when the daughters of Zelaphchad go to Moses to complain about not being allowed to inherit land promised to their father when he dies since the land was promised only to male heirs. Their father had no sons. Moses consults with G!d and the law of inheritance is changed to include the daughters. Progress.
Of course, there are many parallels between these challenges to leadership, acts of zealousness and the rights of women that are also our concerns and struggles today. We, once again, note that, as lofty as the Covenant is, there is an imperative to make changes and to take actions on behalf of the integrity and rights of all those in the Israelite community.
These past two weeks we have seen how our own Supreme Court wrestles with this responsibility. We see how we, as citizens, as human beings, must speak out and take action. How do we take non-violent actions to ensure the vision of a more inclusive and egalitarian society? How do we fulfill the vision of ‘We the People…to establish a more perfect union…?’
And in the Middle East, in the Land of Promise, how can we sit still when the Palestinian Arabs, are denied their human rights and are now subjected to the powerful military response of the IDF in the Jenin refugee camp. Yes, Israel is afraid of the rise of militancy supported by Iran and Hamas. “Not by a might, not by power….” (Zecharaiah). What can we do? Support those groups dedicated to resolving the conflict. See the list below.
This week I’m attending the Aleph Kallah, a weeklong conference of close to six hundred Jewish Renewalists from around the country and Canada. Hopefully, this conference in West Chester, Pennsylvania, will help us bring some light and inspiring teachings back to our communities. Last night there was a program “And Justice for All” featuring a local Black Minister, Nik Orourke. He reminded us that Bayard Rustin was from West Chester. He was the principle organizer of the 1963 March on Washington. The pastor’s story, his message and his singing, with two rabbis, was inspiring.
May we all be inspired.
Reb David