A Blessing for Our Courageous Muslim Allies

Day by day, my appreciation, respect, and love grow for my beloved Muslim friends who, in these dark times, choose to stand with the Jewish people against hatred and evil. Their consistent moral courage has unleashed upon them a constant stream of hostility and vile attacks, yet they persevere with remarkable strength standing for truth and speaking out against hatred and violence.

I have never been tested as many of my beloved Muslim friends have been to take such public stands in the face of great opposition and animosity. Their courage to speak out and stand firm for what they believe inspires me profoundly. They help me grow as a human being and deepen my faith in the goodness that still exists in our world.

Many of them will be marching this Sunday in the Israel Parade under a banner that says “Muslims For Israel.”  They are leaders of organizations such as the American Muslim & Multifaith Women’s Empowerment Council, the Muslim Women Speakers Bureau, Muslim–Israel Dialogue,  and others, organizations that endure hatred and condemnation for choosing the path of dialogue, friendship, and peace.

Many of these dear friends I have had the great joy of hosting in my home in Jerusalem for Shabbat.

My response to the curses hurled upon them is to bestow the same blessing that I give to my own children each Shabbat:

“Yevarechecha Adonai v’yishmerecha.
Ya’er Adonai panav eilecha vichuneka.
Yisa Adonai panav eilecha v’yasem lecha shalom.”

“May God bless you and protect you.
May God shine His face upon you and be gracious to you.
May God lift His face toward you and grant you peace.”