Shabbat Shalom,
In this week’s parashah, Chayei Sarah, we encounter a powerful moment of reconciliation in the story of two brothers—Isaac and Ishmael. These sons of Abraham, raised in different worlds and touched by family conflicts beyond their control, come together to bury their father. Despite past divisions, they unite in a shared act of honor and respect, reflecting an ability to put the pain of the past behind them and build peace.
Some commentators suggest that Isaac and Ishmael didn’t simply part ways but instead lived together for a time, demonstrating a bond that grew deeper and stronger. This glimpse into their relationship is a reminder of what is possible when we choose connection over separation. As Jews, we are called to be "Am Segulah," a chosen people whose purpose is to model unity, harmony, and understanding for the world. We are tasked with leading by example, reaching across divides, and showing others that a path of peace can heal even the deepest wounds.
This is not just a personal calling but a national responsibility, an opportunity to show our neighbors—and even our adversaries—that there is a way to live in peace and shared purpose. Our history and values compel us to take up this role, to bridge divides and work for a world grounded in justice and kindness.
I am reminded of a personal journey of forgiveness that brought me profound growth. Years ago, someone I trusted deeply wronged me, and I carried the weight of that hurt. Eventually, I made a choice—not for them, but for myself—to forgive. I did it for peace of mind, and in that decision, I found unexpected growth and freedom. As a rabbi, I have carried that lesson forward into my work. I strive to build bridges not only within our own community but also in my interfaith work, where I reach out across differences in belief and tradition, bringing people together to create shared understanding and respect. I have witnessed firsthand how peace flourishes when we make room for one another and listen, when we release past grievances in favor of a shared future.
In The Musar: Jewish ethics, we learn, "Distance yourself from hatred and cling to peace" (Pirkei Avot 1:12). Our sages guide us to embrace peace, to view others as partners in a journey toward a more righteous and just world. This story of Isaac and Ishmael is a call for us to be like them—to let go of grudges and reach out to others with a spirit of unity and compassion.
Even nowadays Rachel Edry, a resident of Ofakim, Israel, displayed remarkable courage during the Hamas attack on October 7th. When enraged, drugged militants entered her home and held her and her husband hostage for approximately 20 hours. They had a definite agenda, but Rachel chose to engage them with calmness and hospitality. She offered them drinks and homemade cookies, sang Arabic songs, and conversed with them, effectively distracting and delaying them until Israeli security forces arrived and successfully rescued the couple. Her actions have been widely recognized as a symbol of fortitude character and bravery.
May the example of Isaac and Ishmael inspire us to seek reconciliation, to forgive, and to build bridges of understanding and peace. May the ways of peace, as demonstrated by Rachel, guide our response toward hatred and belligerence. And may we, as Am Segulah, light the way for others, leading with compassion and kindness toward a world filled with harmony and brotherhood.
I am telling you- This, will calm the antisemitic wave and bring an end to the war in Israel, bring the hostages home.
