Tsunami
In the Rosh Chodesh davening we add Barchi Nafshi, a perek from Tehillim (a chapter from the Book of Psalms) which speaks about the creation and the cycle of life in general, and the (lunar) month in particular. During these last couple of months since we have been witness to the destructive force of the tsunami, I was inspired to say a short vort that came to mind. I do not intend to pass judgement on any person nor any nation, I leave the application to the reader, my whole intention is only to provide food for thought.
Searching for Jewish Beliefs? Click Here for my main article on Jewish Beliefs.
Respect The Boundaries
We read in Tehillim (104, 5-9), “… Who laid the foundations of the earth, so that it not topple over forever. You covered it with deep waters as with a garment, the waters stood above the mountains. At Your rebuke they fled, at the voice of Your thunder they hastened away, they flowed up the mountains, and then flowed down to the valleys which You established for them. You set a boundary (the sand on the shore) that they may not pass over, that they may not return to cover the earth.”
Gvul samta bal yaavorun. The Aibershter made boundaries that (the water) should not overstep. He also created boundaries (for us), Mitzvos and prohibitions, that we should not overstep. It says regarding certain transgressions that it brings a mabul (massive floods) to the world. I understand that when we respect our boundaries and don’t go stepping out of line, don’t go mixing into areas in which we don’t belong, that this can arouse a Heavenly Hanhaga of shemira in this matter, that the waters should also not overstep their bounds. Respect the boundaries, don’t fear tsunami.
Leave A Response