Rafael Saban - Dvar Torah

Lessons from Parsha Eikev

As I stand here today, celebrating my Bar Mitzvah, I reflect on the significance of this moment and the values I am inheriting from my Jewish heritage. One of the most profound lessons I have learned from Parsha Eikev speaks to the importance of faith, responsibility, and standing strong in the face of adversity. Today, as we witness the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas alongside the rise of antisemitism, I find that the lessons from Parsha Eikev resonate deeply with our current reality.

In Parsha Eikev, Moses addresses the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. He reminds them of their covenant with God and emphasizes the blessings that come from obedience. He warns against forgetting their past and urges them to remain faithful to their beliefs. This message of resilience and commitment to one’s values is incredibly relevant today, especially as we navigate the complexities of the Israel-Gaza conflict.

The situation in Israel is fraught with challenges, and it often feels like the world is divided. As a young Jew, I believe in Israel's right to defend itself against threats. Just as Moses reminded the Israelites of their responsibilities, we must recognize Israel's right to protect its citizens and maintain its sovereignty. The conflict is not merely political; it is deeply personal for me, my family, and friends who live in Israel.

Moses’ teachings remind us that our choices have consequences. The Israelites faced the choice to follow God’s commandments and remain faithful to their identity or to stray and face repercussions. Similarly, we must decide how to respond to the challenges Israel faces. We can choose to support Israel, recognizing its right to exist and defend itself, or we can succumb to antisemitism and misinformation that seek to undermine its legitimacy.

Antisemitism has unfortunately been a persistent issue throughout history, appearing in various forms today. I have experienced it myself online. The rise of hate speech, violence against Jews, and the delegitimization of Israel are stark reminders of the struggles our ancestors faced. In Parsha Eikev, Moses urges the Israelites to remember their history and the hardships they endured. This call to remembrance is crucial for us today. We must not forget the lessons of the past but use them to inform our actions in the present.

The Torah teaches us that we are a chosen people, tasked with the responsibility of standing up for justice and truth. This means advocating for our rights as Jews. Just as the Israelites were called to be a light unto the nations, we too must be voices of reason and compassion in a world that often does not understand our struggles.

As I prepare to take on the responsibilities of adulthood, I am committed to standing up for Israel and the Jewish people. It is essential to educate others about our history, struggles, and right to exist as a sovereign nation. By doing so, we can combat antisemitism and promote understanding and acceptance.

In conclusion, Parsha Eikev teaches us vital lessons about faith, resilience, and the importance of standing firm in our beliefs. As I celebrate my Bar Mitzvah, I am reminded of the strength of our community and the importance of defending our values. The challenges that Israel faces today may be daunting, but like the Israelites who stood at the threshold of the Promised Land, we too must remain steadfast in our commitment to justice, truth, and the right to defend ourselves. Together, we can honor our past, embrace our identity, and work towards a future where peace and understanding prevail. Thank you.