Jewish tradition teaches us that our world stands on three things: on the Torah, on worship and on acts of kindness.
The Hebrew word for kindness, chesed, is mentioned in the Torah 190 times.
For this reason, many Jewish thinkers hold the value of loving-kindness as Judaism’s primary ethical virtue.
As we enter the coming holidays, along with enjoying our celebrations with family and friends, we must not forget that this should also be a time to exercise loving kindness.
Indeed, as the days grow shorter and nights longer, we must remember that many are suffering personal darkness in the form of poverty, depression, medical crises and homelessness.
We deal with the darkness of this time by having joyous gatherings, lighting candles and stringing lights around our homes and businesses. But this is not enough to ease the pain with which so many are dealing.
One cannot feed a child or pay the rent or mortgage with pretty lights. The lights in people’s windows cannot ease the grief of a family who has an empty place at their holiday celebration.
We must find ways to bring real light to our world, remembering those who are struggling to make it through each day.
It must be so difficult for them to see people scurrying about, spending money, buying gifts and seeing ads touting the latest “must have” item when they can barely survive.
The primary word that is used by Jews to encourage kindness and the value of helping others is tzedakah, usually defined as charity. But it is actually derived from the word for justice.
We are told not simply to be kind to others but rather to be just, and to actually act to right the wrongs in our world.
In his book on developing ethical traits, Alan Morinis teaches that “the most important aspect of loving-kindness is not what you feel, but rather what you do.” (Every Day, Holy Day) Action, not beliefs or “thoughts and prayers” is what brings justice to those who need our help.
It is especially important during this time of the year to engage in every act of kindness possible.
Donate to the many local organizations and causes that provide relief for our most vulnerable. The Port Angeles Food Bank is in desperate need right now with a tremendous increase in clients and the loss of a major source of income. The Peninsula Home Fund is another local nonprofit which provides help to those in need in our community.
As we spend money on gifts for our family and friends, we must not forget our community “family.”
The Talmud tells us “The candle you light will give light to a hundred.”
Light is a metaphor for the Divine, so when we spread light by reaching out to others, we are partners with God in healing the world.
As we reflect on the blessings we have in our lives, remember that we are called to be a blessing to others, and in so doing we will be blessed. Jewish tradition has always focused on the concept of pikuach nefesh, the saving of every life. The Talmud teaches that, when we save one life, it is as if we have saved the world entire.
Do not be overwhelmed at how much there is to do, but go about the saving of one life at a time.
While gazing on the lights during your holiday celebrations, be sure and bring your own light to others who need your help.
Rabbi Nachum Braverman tells us, “We light candles in testament that faith makes miracles possible.”
Kein yehi ratzon … may it be God’s will. Shalom.
_________
Issues of Faith is a rotating column by religious leaders on the North Olympic Peninsula. Suzanne DeBey is a lay leader of the Port Angeles Jewish community. Her email is debeyfam@olympus.net.
