This week’s Torah portion is ‘Noah’ from the book of Genesis.
The Torah tells us that God’s reason for drowning the world was that it was full of ‘hamas’, which translates into senseless violence.
Now, the fact that the terrorist organization Hamas is an Arabic acronym for something, and totally separate from the Hebrew word, does not take away from a dazzling coincidence that is very much on our minds as the war between Israel and Hamas rages.
Like many of you, so much of my attention, worry, and concern is with Israel right now, and on the local impact of this war for America, and American Jews.
We all know that the predictions for the conflict are not short and that it may last a while (weeks? or months?). Throughout the Jewish world, we are girding ourselves (from Left to Right) for a prolonged conflict with the resolution being the elimination of Hamas. Hopefully with as few innocents being killed as possible.
This is a no-win situation for anyone. But doing nothing, or less than what needs to be done, has its own consequences that the Jewish people are no longer willing to take.
So, what can we do?
Politically advocate, knowing that the politicians need to be buttressed for America to be an ally. And that ‘the other side’ is also in touch.
Give to worthy and effective causes and organizations that are dealing with all of this, real time.
Educate yourselves, and others, relentlessly. This includes you Social Media warriors who are tireless in pointing out in the social sphere the facts and countering misinformation.
And gather with other Jews. Pray. Celebrate Jewish life…even if our joy is stifled (appropriately).
There will be better days ahead.
Am Yisrael Chai.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Spike
