Perashat Vayera 5777

Perashat Vayera 5777

Friday, November 18, 2016 Author: Rabbi Elie Abadie

There is an attempt at making a joke which is currently circulating, that says: "What's the difference between Trump and America's liberal Jews? Trump's grandchildren are Jews". I am not sure what is so funny about it. Of course, while the cynics will laugh, I will be happy, yet, at the same time, shudder and be sad. I am happy for Mr. Trump, not only because he was elected President, but because he has the privilege to have grandchildren who are members of the most ancient, continuous people and nation, dating back to our forefather Abraham Abinu; the Jewish Nation and People. I am sad for all those Jewish grandparents who will, unfortunately, not have such a privilege, as they will see their descendants disappear from our People due to assimilation and intermarriage.  I also shudder at the idea, that almost 70% of American Jews will be facing a similar fate, as they distance themselves from Judaism and Israel, assimilate and disappear from the ranks of the Jewish People and Nation. A four-thousand-year-old saga will end for them, as they become part of the dustbin of history.  

Perashat Vayera describes in many details, the many trials and tribulations that Abraham underwent in defense of his beliefs. Firstly, making a commitment to a G-d that cannot be seen with the naked eye, nor touched, delineated or defined physically. Secondly, he makes a commitment for himself and his descendants, until the end of days, to be circumcised, an act unthinkable in his time. Thirdly, agreeing to the inconceivable idea of 'offering his son to G-d', the episode known as Akedat Yisshak - the Binding of Isaac.

It is very well known that Abraham underwent ten trials or tests; the last of which is the Akedat Yisshak - the Binding of Isaac on the Altar. What was the purpose of all these tests and trials - especially the last one that seems to contradict basic Human and Jewish Values? 

Our Sages, understanding the difficulty in explaining such a trial, elucidate the purpose of all of these trials, particularly the last one. The latter one is difficult, especially in the light of G-d's omniscience - His knowledge of everything, including human thoughts and actions prior to their occurrence.  For if G-d knows everything that will happen, then why was it necessary for G-d to test Abraham at all? Indeed, G-d knows Abraham's actions and responses to these trials even before Abraham's deeds!

Akedat Yisshak - the Binding of Isaac was the last and most difficult trial for Abraham. At the age of 100 years, and after so many promises by G-d, Abraham and Sarah had a child. This meant continuity and sense of purpose for Abraham's faith. Yet, when Abraham was commanded to offer his son, his only son, his beloved son, that command could have shaken Abraham's faith, resolve, and dedication to the A-mighty.  Yet, he didn't waiver at all. He immediately prepared the trip and woke up early in the morning to fulfill G-d's request. Of course, G-d's intentions were not to have Abraham sacrifice his son. He only wanted Abraham to demonstrate to himself and the world his unquestionable dedication and faith in the One G-d. He passed with flying colors!

The great Sephardic scholar, Rabbi Moses ben Maimon (Rambam - Maimonides) is of the opinion that G-d's intention was to show the world the greatness of Abraham in his faithful obedience so it would become a lesson for the rest of humanity.

We, the Jewish People, the descendants of Abraham, have inherited and adhered to Abraham's resolve and faith since time immemorial. In spite of and despite difficulties, oppression, persecution and even sacrifice, we have been loyal and resolute as Abraham was. 

How sad it is, then to read the attempt to make a joke about the future of the American liberal Jews. Even sadder is, the realization that the joke, may not be a joke at all, but a reflection of a reality that is taking place in front of our own eyes. The ranks of the Conservative and Reform movements are shrinking; so many of their synagogues are closing. What a sad story after a four-thousand-year-old saga. However, because of our forefathers' commitments, dedications, and life sacrifices, and after enduring so many persecutions, oppression, inquisitions, pogroms and the Holocaust, we were able to survive. Yet, we see this generation practically giving it up in the name of acculturation and assimilation. 

I am not worried about the viable existence of the Jewish People, our, values, and traditions; we will never disappear. As much as we have made a commitment, G-d has also made a commitment to us,  that we will always exist and prosper. It is for those whose grandchildren will no longer be Jewish, that my heart breaks down and I shudder, for they will become part of the dustbin of history. 

Let us hope and pray that there will be a reawakening of the spirit of Abraham and his dedication that will stem the tide of their disappearance. This will be dependent on us and our actions.  It is up to us to help our fellow Jews renew their commitment to the G-d of our ancestors before it is too late.