Sometimes it feels like the world around is us burning. There is a sense of uncertainty and a jaggedness to life. When I launch into words of Torah, I never strive to hide from what is going on in the outside world. It is always to help process, reflect and gain insight into our modern dealings.The Torah helps us raise up ideals, ascertain our priorities, and unfold hidden meanings. It is the process of digesting Jewish Texts through our own lenses which sustains both the Torah and our own wellbeing concurrently. Parashat Shoftim is no exception. In this portion, we read of the early Israelite judicial system and also laws of war.
The system requires more than 1 witness to condemn someone, impartial judges, and to offer peace before waging war. The Torah seems focused on creating a just community that leans towards peace, truth, and justice. In fact, we read in Pirkei Avot: “Rabban Shimon ben Gamaliel used to say: on three things does the world stand: On justice, on truth and on peace, as it is said: “execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates” (Zechariah 8:16).”
It seems that these three items are required for the world to have any sense of balance. We may think that 2 out of 3 isn’t bad, but if that was true then stepping stools could only have 2 legs. In order to feel like we are not about to collapse, we as a community must pursue justice, as our portion directs, insist on truth, and strive for peace. And when we find ourselves sinking because one of these is lacking, it is our job to raise our voices, speak to our representatives and never lose sight of these foundational ideas.
May the rest of Shabbat, energize each of us to continually reinforce the foundations of our society.
Shabbat Shalom, Rabbi Bernstein
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