Life can be overwhelming at times, and these past several years have been no exception. We have experienced a series of one “unprecedented” event after the other, all the while maintaining our stand against the antisemetic attacks which can seem perpetual. Our forefather Abraham experiences a similar onslaught of challenges in this week’s parsha, Parshat Vayera, on a more personal level. Not only is he told by three angels that he and his wife Sarah will have a child at the ripe old ages of 99 and 90, but years later he is tested by G-d when he is asked to sacrifice Yitzchak, that very same child. This happens not long after being forced to kick out Ishmael, the son he had with Sarah’s maid, Hagar. On top of all this, Abraham also faces a scare when G-d shares His intentions of destroying Sodom, the city that Abraham’s nephew lives in. With all of these fatal threats against his loved ones, how is it that Abraham is able to sustain his archetypal steadfast faith in G-d? A deeper look into the details of the aforementioned events reveals that Abraham did not simply accept the majority of the situations as they were – at least not immediately. Rashi explains that when G-d told Abraham that He was going to destroy Sodom, the Torah writes that Abraham “drew near” (שננ) to G-d. Such language is used in other parts of Tanakh in the context of approaching a war; Abraham approached G-d in an assertive manner to fight the verdict and even pray, using whatever strategy he could to persuade G-d to spare the innocent inhabitants of Sodom. Similarly, when Sarah wants Abraham to expel Ishmael, the Torah describes the situation as one that distresses Abraham greatly (אַבְרָהָ֑ם בְּעֵינֵ֣י מְאֹ֖ד הַדָּבָ֛ר וַיֵּ֧רַע). The Or HaChaim comments on this phrase, interpreting it to mean that Abraham was concerned that Ishmael would feel rejected and consequently engage in immoral activities. Abraham’s concern for his son was so great that G-d recognized the need to reassure him that Ishmael would survive and even become a nation of his own. Abraham’s actions serve as an important lesson that there is a difference between putting all of our faith in G-d and putting some of that faith in ourselves and our abilities. While Abraham ultimately accepts the word of G-d as a final verdict, he first does what he can to defend those that he cares so deeply about and fights for what he believes is morally right. As a nation founded by Abraham, we should all aspire to find a balance in advocating for ourselves and others while preserving our faith in G-d that in the end, everything – even unprecedented events – will turn out for the best. Shabbat Shalom! Marya Nurgitz McMaster Student
Weekly D’var: Vayakhel-Pekudei
This week’s double portion is Vayakhel-Pekudei, which concludes the book of Exodus. In these final chapters, the Israelites complete the construction of the Tabernacle, the portable sanctuary that they will use to worship God during their travels in the wilderness. The Israelites bring offerings of gold, silver, and other materials, and skilled craftsmen work diligently to create the Tabernacle, the Ark of the Covenant, and all the other sacred objects that will be used in their worship. One of the striking things about this section of the Torah is the emphasis on the importance of every individual’s contribution. The text describes how all the Israelites, regardless of their social status or wealth, were invited to contribute to the construction of the Tabernacle. Each person gave what they could, and their gifts were combined to create something truly magnificent. This emphasis on the importance of individual contributions is a reminder of the power of community. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the challenges of the world and to believe that we as individuals cannot make a difference. But when we come together and combine our efforts, we can create something truly incredible. Whether it is a physical structure like the Tabernacle or a social movement or a charity organization, the power of collective action can accomplish amazing things. On a similar note, Hillel plays a vital role in the lives of many Jewish students, providing a community where they can connect with one another, celebrate their traditions, and explore their Jewish identities. Here in Guelph, we recently learned that we will need to find a new Hillel House. We are very optimistic that we will have a new home in the coming school year and, as such, are working hard to raise funds to help transform whatever space we find into a home that will better serve the needs of our community. March 20th begins our “Home is where Hillel is” fundraising campaign. As we reflect on the power of collective action in this week’s parsha, we are emboldened to dream big in reaching out to the wider community to reach our goals. We must also acknowledge our deep gratitude to all who have helped to make our current Hillel House the warm, welcoming, communal space that it has been for us. Let us remember the example of the Israelites in Vayakhel-Pekudei, who came together to build something truly magnificent. May we follow in their footsteps by working together to support and strengthen our communities.