This Friday night we will celebrate Veteran’s Day through Shabbat services. Jews have long served honorably in our armed services. We have stood tall for the best of America’s ideals and, too often, we have paid the ultimate price. In this we are no different than other groups that make up America, but this fact itself is something to lionize: that we Jews, through our brave women and men who served and continue to serve, do our part with open eyes and valor. The same would be true for those who have served, or are active, in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Our Torah is full of exemplars who were forced to fight for their land, and in defense of their loved ones; including Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Deborah, and King David (the list is long, these are just a few). Almost without exception, all of our spiritual heroes were reluctant to take their people into battle.  We Jews have a long history of being uncomfortable with violence, and this is a good thing. But … [Read more...]