Emotions in motion

Israel prepares for Shabbat this week with frayed nerves. Authorities have instructed Sabbath observant Jews to keep their radios on, tuned to the silent channel, ready for emergency instructions. Those with limited mobility have been told to pray at home. 

At times this all feels overwhelming. Just trying to keep track of the threats is emotionally dizzying. Ominous scenarios. Then there’s internal, self-inflicted harm caused by zealots. And then News coverage that assaults our sensibilities, upending facts, wherein Israel’s enemies can do no wrong and Israel can do no right. And our beloved hostages, their agony and the anguish of their loved ones passes 301 days. To say nothing of the daily attacks on our people abroad.

“Simplicity and clarity will watch over me” yearns the Psalmist (Ps. 25). How then to make things straight forward and clear at such perilous times?  

In this week’s portions of Torah, Moses has to confront the treasonous desire of a couple of Tribes who seek to reside outside the Promised Land, on the eastern side of the Jordan River. His leadership is impressive. He confronts them, “You’re taking the place of the wrongful Spies, a culture of sinners, to yet again inflame God’s anger!” (Num. 32:14). The Tribes hear the rebuke, adjust their motives, and commit to join first in fully securing the Land. 

Moses’ biggest worry is emotional collapse. The word he uses to lay bare the threat of infectious despair is ‘holding back of heart’ (t’ni-un), a bending back from bravery (Num. 32:7). This same Hebrew word is used by the Psalmist, “Don’t bend my heart (hay-ni) to the temptation of hate, the urge to cruelly treat those who act with cruelty” (Psalm 141). 

Like many things in life, this is easier said than done. Easier prayed than felt. Still, the Psalms are sung. And singing helps. Especially when you’re hoping to put your emotions in motion, to carry your feelings forward onto firmer ground. 

Israeli Olympians greeted Shabbat dinner last week with a traditional song. Take 60 seconds to watch them sing Shalom Aleichem (welcome to the angels).

For all of us who seek positive reasons to love being Jewish, savor this. And perhaps sing it tonight to surround yourself with better angels. And may those angels escort your emotions into and from Shabbat this week.