Renowned Jewish academic and Hebrew scholar, Irene Lancaster, delves into the concept of curses potentially being blessings in disguise.
This week’s Torah portion, Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17, known as ‘Re’eh’ or ‘See’, encourages a deeper understanding beyond mere observation. Seeing, as opposed to just looking, involves recognizing solutions within our immediate surroundings and acting upon them.
What may initially seem like a curse might actually offer a hidden blessing. This perspective shifts when problems are viewed as challenges to overcome rather than threats.
Addressing poverty within our communities exemplifies this idea. Deuteronomy 15:11 acknowledges that ‘destitute people will not cease within the Land,’ implying the perpetual presence of poverty. Despite this, despair should not lead to inaction. Verse 7 advises against closing off our hearts or hands, instead urging us to ‘open your hand – lend him what is lacking.’
This reflects Judaism’s focus on modest gestures and humble actions. While not all global issues can be solved, incremental efforts significantly benefit both benefactor and beneficiary.
The Haftorah accompanying this portion is the third in a series recited before Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, as we approach the introspective month of Elul.
In Isaiah 54:11-55:4, the prophet invites the impoverished to ‘everyone who is thirsty, go to the water, even those who have no money, go, buy and eat. Go and buy without money or price, wine or milk (55:1).’ Here, poverty is likened to a lack of Torah, suggesting true nourishment and wealth stem from embracing Torah teachings.
This embodies another facet of ‘seeing.’ In Jewish tradition, focusing solely on personal needs leads to the neglect of Torah principles, which advocate for community-centric living.
This teaching resonates today, as egocentrism and grandiose ideas often overshadow local concerns, with many charities prioritizing global issues over immediate community needs.
Judaism emphasizes prioritizing one’s neighbor and asserts that small, local acts of kindness are more impactful than broad global initiatives.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
