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William Hamilton

Promise

“There was a moment when they (young IDF casualties) were laid out next to each other. And I went up to each one and touched their faces gently, I caressed them for a moment, and then I told them that I’m sorry, and closed their eyes” (One Day In October, P. 187)

Commander Or Ben Yehuda’s final loving-kindness, her tender gestures, move me deeply. As she closed the eyes of so many whose ultimate sacrifice and fierce dedication through hundreds of explosive battles on October 7, 2023 which enabled our People to continue to live, my own eyes are now open. 

Ever since that shattering day, there have been over 10,000 antisemitic incidents recorded in the US alone. If the coming days are better days, then we’ll soon see Hostages come back where they belong. Our eyes will behold blessed embraces. They will also see something searing. The results of brutality done to our people of Holocaust-like proportions. What then can an eye-opening experience do for us? Where can it point us?

This week’s portion of Torah begins our people’s founding story, the Exodus. God sees our suffering (ra-o ra-eetee) (Ex. 3:7). And Moses grows up. How? By going out and seeing the plight of his brethren (Ex. 2:11). 

When God asks him at the Burning Bush, “What’s in your hand?” (Ex. 4:2), I believe he’s asked a deeper question. It’s not merely referring to the staff Moses holds. God is asking, “What’s in your hands to achieve? What’s in your grasp? What’s within your potential to accomplish in your life?” We have every reason to take that question personally. 

Nothing of deep-worth comes easily. There are dark days. Startling reversals. But seeing the plight of your brethren, internalizing your people’s indomitable spirit, implants within you transfusions of promise. Promises kept. And promising potential.  

Or Ben Yehuda reflected with deep love in her heart as she whispered final words and tenderly closed eyes. “What happened to them I was sure would happen to me when I was there on the embankment.” She promised, “I’ll never forget it as long as I live.”

Pivotal moments open our eyes. This week’s portion specializes in them. Moses grows up. This week, we’ll need to too. And as Moses came to know his potential, may we do so as well. 

About the Author
Rabbi William Hamilton has served as rabbi (mara d'atra) of Kehillath Israel in Brookline, MA since 1995.
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