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One of the greatest stories of all time is the vision that Moses foresaw three thousand years before it happened. In this weekâs parsha, Moses speaks:
See, I have taught you decrees and laws as the L-rd my G-d commanded me, so that you may follow them in the land you are about to enter and possess. Take care to keep them, for this will be your wisdom and understanding in the eyes of the nations, who will hear about all these decrees and say, âSurely this great nation is a wise and understanding people!â For what other nation has decrees and laws as just as this Torah that I am setting before you today? (Deut. 4:5-8)
Moses believed that there would come a time when the idea of a nation founded on a covenant with G-d would inspire other nations with its vision of a society based not on a hierarchy of power but on the equal dignity of all under the sovereignty and in the image of G-d; and on the rule of justice and compassion. This vision has materialized, especially in the political culture and language of the United States.
American presidents often invoke the idea of covenant in their Inaugural Addresses, echoing the language of the book of Devarim. This tradition dates back to presidents like Ronald Reagan, George Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama, who all used explicitly religious language that reflects the values of the Torah.
The spread of the Hebrew Bible in the 16th century, along with the Reformation and the translation of the Bible into vernacular languages, played a crucial role in shaping political thought. The influence of the Hebrew Bible led to the development of republican ideals, the concept of wealth redistribution, and religious toleration in European and American politics.
The Hebrew Bible’s impact on liberty is evident in the history of modern revolutions. The English and American revolutions, based on the Hebrew Bible, led to liberty, while the French and Russian revolutions, based on secular philosophies, resulted in the suppression of liberty.
John Adams recognized the civilizing influence of the Hebrews, attributing to them a significant role in shaping civilization. However, the political discourse in contemporary Israel lacks the Judaic influence seen in the United States.
The significance of the Hebrew Bible for liberty and the need for Israel to embrace its Judaic roots in politics are emphasized. Recovering the vision of social justice, compassion, and human dignity set forth by Moses is essential for the future of Israeli politics.