Rosh HaYeshiva, Machon Meir
When the Israelites seek to cross the desert by way of Edom, Edom responds, “Do not pass through my land, or I will greet you with the sword” (Numbers 20:18).
Rashi explains, “You pride yourselves on the ‘voice’ which your father bequeathed you as a blessing, saying, ‘We cried out to the L-rd and He heard our voice’ (Numbers 20:16). I therefore will come out against you with that which my father bequeathed me when he said, ‘You shall live by your sword’ (Genesis 27:40).”
Indeed, Israel’s strength derives from their faith, morality and justice. It is with this strength that they stride upward through history, overcoming the obstacles and enemies that lie in wait for them. Israel’s spiritual power is hereditary. It is “an eternal heritage for the congregation of Jacob” (Deuteronomy 33:4), and we have inherited it, generation by generation, from our ancestors. It was implanted in us by G-d, who selected us from amongst all the nations and gave us His Torah.
By contrast, Edom and the nations that follow in Edom’s path, both then and now, proceed by the power of the sword, symptomatic of desire to overcome and destroy their fellow.
Right now, the threat of the sword looming over Israel shall not deter or frighten us. The Jewish People, accustomed throughout the generations to proceeding by the power of faith, justice and morality, also knew and know how to use the sword, just as they did in the case of Sichon, King of the Amorites: “Israel struck him down with the sword and occupied his land” (Numbers 21:24). Ultimately days will arrive regarding which the Prophet Isaiah said, “Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more” (Isaiah 2:4). When will this occur? When “Judah remains forever and Jerusalem from generation to generation” (Joel 4:20).
Looking forward to complete salvation,
Shabbat Shalom.
No comments:
Post a Comment