Photo Credit: courtesy, Sivan Rahav Meir
“Then the L-rd said to Moses: ‘Inscribe this as a reminder, and read it aloud to Joshua: I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven… The L-rd will wage war against Amalek throughout the generations.’”
These verses were read in all synagogues around the world this past Shabbat morning. Hamas, the epitome of absolute evil, is not only the enemy of Eli Sharabi, Ohad Ben Ami, and Or Levy, but of the Jewish people and G-d Himself. Amalekites are enemies of all that is good and holy in this world.
We were reminded of the October 7 events and how absolute evil can prevail. The response to defeat Amalek lies in faith, unity, and strength, as demonstrated in the Exodus from Egypt and the Splitting of the Sea.
As we face challenges today, let us pray for unity among the Jewish people to overcome obstacles and work towards a brighter future where evil will disappear, and redemption will prevail.
How Do You Respond To A Changing Reality?
Reflecting on the events of October 7, I head to New York to meet with more “October 8th Jews” who were awakened by the events.
Similarly, in this week’s Parashat Yitro, Yitro hears of the miraculous liberation of the Israelites and takes action to join the nation of Israel. His response to the world-changing events sets an example for us to reflect on the significance of what we hear and take action.
We are bombarded with information daily, but Yitro’s story reminds us to respond thoughtfully to what we hear and see.
Translated by Janine Muller Sherr.