Ukraine – holy scribbles

weekly Torah reading: parashas Vayakhel-Pekudei 5783

“And the opening of the robe was turned inward like the opening of a coat of armor; its opening had a border around it so that it should not be torn.” – Exodus 39:23

The kohein gadol wore eight garments, specially tailored for his role. The seam around the neckline of his robe was to be made with a border, akin to those found in a coat of armor. For the sake of comparison, the kohein gadol, perhaps, in some ways can be regarded as a type of “spiritual warrior.” Thus, his role entailed, serving on behalf of Bnei Yisrael (the Children of Israel), that he seeks atonement for their sins, especially as a nation on Yom Kippur; and, also to reconcile them to the L-RD, through the various offerings made in the courtyard of the sanctuary.

Additionally, the upkeep of the sanctuary where H’Shem dwelt within the midst of the camp of the Israelites. His role, in a sense, included an emphasis on countering the enemy both within and without. That is to say, to seek atonement for the sins of Israel that were committed because of the overpowering enemy within, the yetzer hara (evil inclination). And, to counter the actual enemies of Israel, by seeking advice from H’Shem in times of war.

One year since the war in Ukraine began, we seek the help of G-d, in regard to the plight of our brethren in Ukraine. May the L-RD shine His countenance upon all people in the region, who seek shelter, food, and safety in the midst of chaos. Inasmuch that many believe that we are currently in the achronim yomin (end of days), we look forward to the final redemption, where all of Israel will be saved. “O Israel, that art saved by the L-RD with an everlasting salvation; ye shall not be ashamed nor confounded world without end” (Isaiah 45:17, JPS 1917 Tanach).

I imagine that I will not be the only one attempting a “balancing act” this Purim: balancing joy & sorrow, past & present, and religion & life. Perhaps, there is no need for me to explain, and you, dear reader, are already beginning to get an inkling of what I am about to say. Purim is quickly approaching; yet, my thoughts are preoccupied with a modern-day Purim story, wherein the archvillain is intent on destruction, despite the opposition.

Abraham Heschel advocated for a Judaism that is not wrapped up in its past glory, in spite of the prevailing circumstances of life. How can I celebrate Purim in a joyous manner, knowing that a real-life situation demands my attention, prayer, and support? To go along with Purim-as-usual would create a great disconnect between what is meant to be a living faith in touch with the challenges of life and the actual challenges that present themselves, despite the timing.

The war in Ukraine will not be put on hold for the celebration of Purim. This is the stark reality that many of the Jewish refugees who have managed to cross the border know. And the unfortunate ones, who for whatever reasons are still in Ukraine, sheltering in basements, or fighting to defend their country also know this all too well. The rejoicing in Shushan and the lands of Ahasuerus did not occur until after victory was procured for the Jewish people, who were previously threatened by the evil designs of Haman.

Today, rejoicing over this past victory will in all likelihood be diminished in light of the present reality. Whatever lessons we are able to glean from Purim, I would encourage that these be applied to our response to the events of today. Otherwise, as Heschel wrote, we risk ignoring “the crisis of today,” “because of the splendor of the past” (Heschel, G-d in Search of Man, ch.1).