The UN Vote and the Story of Passover
Reflecting on the recent UN vote regarding the potential recognition of the Palestinian state, I draw a meaningful parallel to a pivotal part of the story of Pesach (Passover). This ancient narrative offers a timeless lesson that should resonate deeply with current events.
In the Passover story, Pharaoh, the king of Egypt, had three advisors: Bilaam, Eov, and Yitro. Each advisor responded differently to Pharaoh’s decree to kill the Jews, and their responses and fates offer profound insights into moral and ethical decision-making.
Bilaam: The Malevolent Instigator
Bilaam was a sorcerer known for his malevolence. His advice to Pharaoh was clear and unequivocal: “Kill them, destroy all the Jews.” Bilaam represents those who actively seek to harm others, driven by hatred and malice. His legacy is one of evil, and his words and actions are remembered as dirty and destructive. Ultimately, Bilaam met a violent end, his life cut short by the sword, leaving behind a legacy of infamy.
Eov: The Indifferent Advisor
Eov’s response to Pharaoh was one of indifference. He claimed, “I can’t advise you. I just don’t know. I’m underqualified, so I don’t have a word.” Eov represents those who choose neutrality in the face of moral dilemmas, avoiding taking a stand. His punishment was severe: he suffered countless trials and tribulations, losing his children, his fortune, and his health. Though he eventually recovered, his suffering serves as a cautionary tale against the perils of indifference.
Yitro: The Righteous Advocate
Yitro, on the other hand, stood up for what was right. He reminded Pharaoh of the contributions of Joseph and the Jewish people to Egypt, saying, “Have you forgotten what Joseph did for Egypt? Have you forgotten what the Jewish people did? They saved the entire Egyptian livelihood and economy. You would’ve all starved to death. Is this how you repay the Jewish people, by killing them? You cannot do this.” Pharaoh, enraged by Yitro’s words, sought to kill him, forcing Yitro to flee to Midian. Despite this, Yitro’s legacy was one of honor and blessing. He became part of the Jewish people and Moses’ father-in-law, with his descendants esteemed and blessed.
The recent UN vote can be viewed through the lens of this ancient story.
- 143 nations that voted against Israel are akin to Bilaam, choosing a path of animosity and betrayal.
- 25 nations that abstained resemble Eov, avoiding a stance and thus failing to uphold justice.
- 8 nations plus Israel, nine in total, that rejected the resolution outright mirror Yitro, standing firmly for what is right despite the potential consequences.
As we celebrate our Jewish independence in the eternal State of Israel, our commitment to living, growing, and protecting our homeland from those intent on its destruction, the lessons from the Passover story are more relevant than ever. We call on the nations of the world to be like Yitro, to stand up for righteousness, have moral clarity, and unequivocally support us in the fight against terrorism whose roots may be in Israel but whose branches reach across the world.
Let us strive to live in a world with integrity, courage, and a commitment to justice, blessing not only our fellow Jews but all good people of the world.
May we always choose the path of righteousness, guided by the timeless wisdom of our traditions.
Happy Yom Ha’atzmaut – a joyous day of celebration!
#IsraelisFightingTerrorism #PalestineLieMustDie
