Loss is a major theme in this week’s Parsha, Chukat.
Loss is a major theme in this week’s Parsha, Chukat. Almost immediately after last week’s parsha and the challenges to Moses’ leadership, he is now faced with the deaths of Miriam and, then, at the close of the pasha, of Aaron. Not only were they his siblings, but, they were co-founders and his closest allies in the birth of the Israelite nation and the Jewish people. When Miriam dies, rather than mourn the loss, they complain to Moses about who is now going to provide them with water as Miriam had done in the past. Aaron, however, is mourned for 30 days. This disservice to Miriam still needs to be rectified. We have tried to do that at our Shabbat of Chukat Service in past years and will do so again this week.
We, sadly, see a similar disregard and lack of appreciation for women in our nation given the recent Supreme Court ruling to throw out Roe.
“How many deaths will it take 'til he knows
That too many people have died" (Bob Dylan)? How many shootings will it take? How many democratic institutions need to be shot down? Our hope is sustained and nurtured by joining with others in affirming life and fighting for human rights.
We must remember and honor our heroes. This morning I learned of the death of Barry Krasner z’l. Barry, for more than five decades served the Jewish people in so many ways. He was in the forefront of innovative Jewish educational programming here in the DC area, active in Habonim, and a longtime member of the Zemer Chai Choir. The beloved husband of Eleanor Epstein, Barry was a great support of the Jewish Folk Arts Festivals and many other Am Kolel programs. He will be missed.
His loss, like the loss of Miriam and Aaron, challenges us all to carry the torch forward.
T’hey Menukhatam,
Reb David