Dear Friends,
In this week’s Torah portion, BeHaalotecha, we learn that the Israelites were given “manna from heaven” to sustain themselves on their excruciatingly long journey through the desert. But instead of showing gratitude, they complain, suggesting that “things were better in Egypt” before they were freed.
At first glance, it is somewhat baffling that the Israelites would suggest that things were better in Egypt when they were slaves. Even amidst the disappointments and struggles they were facing, to suggest they were better off during a time of servitude and suffering speaks to the very nature of why the Israelites had to wander in the desert so long. They completely lost perspective and misunderstood the nature of their freedom and the responsibility and the rights that come with self determination. Their forty-year journey helped them gain perspective and grow into a stronger and more vibrant nation with an appreciation for the many blessings in their lives, despite the inconveniences they experienced.
As we continue to reevaluate many of the safety measures and procedures that we as a community, as a state, and as a country have put into place to guard and protect ourselves from COVID-19, there seems to be a lot of debate over the efficacy of mask requirements and mandates. Not being a scientist, I cannot speak to the value of masks. I will leave that for our Medical Committee. But as a Rabbi, I can say with certainty that comparing the requirement to wear a mask to restrictions placed on Jews during the time of the Holocaust is simply inappropriate, insulting, and offensive to the experience of Jews in Nazi Germany. It shows poor judgment, a loss of perspective, and a lack of appreciation and gratitude for the progress that we have made against COVID-19.
Like the Israelites in the desert, freedom and self determination are not easy and come at a cost. But as we continue to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, we owe it to ourselves to look forward during what will be a difficult, albeit important, transformative, and meaningful journey, as we hope to continue to grow and flourish as a stronger, more compassionate community.
Wishing you all a Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Josh Dorsch
