Community Torah Corner, September 13, 2024

In this week's parsha, Ki Teitzei, which is found in the book of Devarim,  we read and learn about 74 of the Torah’s commandments that guide how we should treat our families, neighbors, and all individuals. While each of these laws touch on different aspects of our lives, a unifying theme seen through them all is the importance of kindness, ethical behavior, and our responsibility towards one another. 

In the parsha, we read:

 לְכׇל־אֲבֵדַ֥ת אָחִ֛יךָ אֲשֶׁר־תֹּאבַ֥ד מִמֶּ֖נּוּ וּמְצָאתָ֑הּ לֹ֥א תוּכַ֖ל לְהִתְעַלֵּֽם 

“Anything that your fellow Israelite loses and you find: you must not remain indifferent."

Here, we learn that if we are to find an Israelite or an Israelite's belongings, whether we know them or not, we are responsible for staying with them until they return to their home. Rashi specifies that in this case, ““You must not cover your eyes, pretending not to see it.” Rashi’s commentary highlights a fundamental Jewish value being the importance of being attentive and consistently mindful of the well-being of others.

This specific idea aligns with Jewish ideology regarding how we are to treat strangers. Seen in the book of Leviticus, chapter 19 verse 34, we read the well known quote, "The strangers who reside with you shall be to you as your citizens … for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.” This quote not only is about remembering the Jewish people's history but also emphasizes ensuring that those who are different are treated with complete respect and fairness. Through actively welcoming strangers, we can build a community that demonstrates its commitment to inclusivity and mutual support.   

Now, more than ever it is so important that we apply this Jewish value of community and kindness to our daily lives. For almost a year now, our Jewish brothers and sisters living in Israel have had their lives turned upside down. Many have faced unimaginable struggles and have had to forcefully create a new life for themselves. To help do our part in supporting them, this past year our GOA National Honors Society chapter has worked to raise money through a variety of fundraisers for IsraAid, an international humanitarian aid organization based in Israel. IsraAid aligns with our goal of supporting Israel by addressing both immediate and long-term needs through their Israel Emergency initiative. They partner with evacuated Kibbutz communities, establish temporary schools and recreational spaces for children amidst the chaos, and offer a range of mental health programs. We take the responsibility to help those struggling during this harsh time very seriously and are dedicated to continue our support to Israel and its people. 

Speaking to those Jewish values of community and inclusivity, IsraAid does just that in their strive to help respond to crises outside of Israel. IsraAid has helped, serving countries such as Japan and Turkey, to help in rebuilding their societies after difficult periods of time. IsraAid and its work properly demonstrate the important responsibility we all have to the greater community. 

 

This year, we hope as a chapter to host community wide fundraisers and service projects that will help us continue aiding those affected by the atrocities of October 7th. We know with your help we will raise funds and make a difference, while doing acts of chesed! Shabbat Shalom.