This week, as war rages in Israel over “occupied territory” and the inhuman forces of Hamas and their ilk attack the Jews for living, we read Parshas Beraishis, and take no note of the first comment of Rashi.
Quoting his father, R’ Yitzchak, Rashi comments that the “Jewish bible” should have begun with our first national mitzva, to sanctify the new month, (which we also do this week!).
“Instead, however, it begins with the creation of the world, as it says in Psalm 111, ‘He showed the might of His actions to His nation, to give them the inheritance of peoples...’”
If the nations of the world say the Jews stole the Land of Israel from the seven nations who dwelled there, they would reply that the entire world belongs to Hashem, and He can give it to whom He chooses, then take it away and give it to us.”
It was true then, and it is true now.
We do not see our claim to the Land of Israel as being the result of our military might or conquest. Rather, it is ours because Hashem, Who created the entire universe, promised it to our forefathers and commanded us to take possession of it.
The answer to those who wish to drive us into the sea is clear and straightforward, as it has always been from the beginning.
Thought of the week:
We generally do not see the world as it is, but as we are.
