What are our values?
What do we care about?
Our history and texts teach us that there are multiple paths to annunciate and demonstrate what we care about. We can write, speak, march, do, listen, care, spend money. Some say actions are louder than words, while others focus on the power of the pen (or keyboard).
In our morning prayers, we do not just bless the Holy One for the gift of Torah, but rather say:
Barukh atah Adonai Eloheinu melekh ha’olam asher kid’shanu b’mitzvotav v’tzivanu la’asok b’divrei torah.
Blessed are You, Lord our God, Master of Space and Time, who has sanctified us with commandments, and commanded us to be occupied with words of Torah.
The word “la’asok” is key here. Translations vary from study, to be occupied with, to practice, to engage with. Regardless of how we translate the word, it is one that demands action. It is an active word imagining us wrestling, fighting with, engaging with the texts.
Our texts debate which is more important--action or study, with strong arguments on each side. One of the most popular of those debates in the Talmud ends with the command that we study--for it leads to action. (See for example: http://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/learning-amp-doing/)
For me study is a gift. It is time to consider our past, present and future. It is a way to see the conversations that are relevant today have been with us for generations. The Torah teaches repeatedly about caring for the stranger, widow and orphan--those who need a little more help. The Talmud teaches about the importance of freeing slaves and redeeming captives--knowing that the world is not perfect and we can be both oppressor and victim. Our identities are not static, but ever changing. Our choices make all the difference.
This week has made me very antsy. Hearing reports of cemeteries desecrated, of JCCs and Jewish centers and schools having bomb threats, I wonder how I can most actively contribute. Donations are wonderful, but how can we prevent future attacks? How can I be a voice for calm and reason when I, myself, am frustrated?
So I have made phone calls to my elected officials. I have thanked my local police officers. I lock my doors and set the alarm, yet I also make sure that I remain active in community events. I have recommitted myself to study. I pray that my study will lead me to further action. What will you do next?
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