In this week’s Torah portion Noach, we read of G-d’s command to Noah to build an ark. The ark would be a safe-haven during the floor that will last for 40 days and 40 nights. Into the ark Noah will bring his family and pairs of all of the world’s animal life to be saved from the flood. The turbulent waters that destroyed so much were the very same water that lifted the ark high above the highest mountain tops, carrying Noah, his family and the animals who repopulated the world.
The key is to enter the ark, especially when the waters get rough. The ark symbolizes an environment of hope, trust and closeness and commitment to G-d.
The word for “ark” in Hebrew is “teiva.” Teiva also means “word.” Jewish teachings relate this to words of Torah. The Torah is a source of strength and a refuge in times of difficulty. It also gives you the right perspective, which will keep you positive.
In Noah’s ark, animals of prey coexisted with the other animals. This occurred because in the ark the “light” of Moshiach shone; an atmosphere of peace and no strife permeated the ark. The times of Moshiach is the goal of our existence, and when you understand the purpose and are focused on the goal, the waters are easier to navigate.
Being on the ark was hard work for Noach. He had to feed and take care of all of the animals. But the outcome of all of his hard work was that he saved the world. Doing what G-d wants is hard work, but what it accomplishes is amazing. That is the way struggles, traumas, difficulties, etc., are. They can destroy you, but with the right attitude they can lift you up. Just like the waters of the flood, they can destroy or they can uplift. Having a strong support system in difficult times and looking toward a goal that makes you part of something greater enables you to be stronger than you would be on your own.
We have to realize that our struggles are of extreme importance, and when we finally complete our work, we will have brought the world to its ultimate destination, and the reward will be unlimited.
May we merit to see the completion of our toil and our struggles once and for all, with the coming of Moshiach.
Adapted by Rabbi Yitzi Hurwitz from the Rebbe’s teachings, yitzihurwitz.blogspot.com. Rabbi Hurwitz, who is battling ALS, and his wife Dina, are emissaries of the Rebbe in Temecula, Ca.
