Do Not Commit Adultery
We watched an incredible film today: Abarbanel – a man of many worlds. It’s the story of Rabbi Don Isaac Abarbanel, leader of Spanish Jewry at the time of the expulsion.
Everyday we are challenged to be Jews, to live up to our Divine calling. Some days are harder than others as we battle with our ego and base drives. Similarly, some times are harder than others, depending on the social and political environments we find ourselves in.
Learning about Spain in the 1490s made me think a lot about our current times. I am fearful about where they are going. To learn about and have the image of the Abarbanel, whose faith was guided by deep wisdom and whose commitment was unwavering, is a great help.
We usually think about adultery and faithfulness in terms of human relationships, but it also applies to our people, ideals (beliefs), homeland (our country), and indeed to God as well.
Ultimately, faithfulness is about being true to ourselves. And who are we? We are Jews. That is the deepest calling of our faithfulness.
Each day this week, when faced with a decision, look at the question in terms of being a Jew, and act faithfully. Be true to yourself.
Set your intention for the day by reciting The Aseret Affirmation: Ten for Ten first thing in the morning.
Wishing you safety and strength,
Nitzan Bergman