I have always struggled with Parshat Pinchas. I believe that those who are our leaders should be thoughtful, not reactive. I believe in elevating those who have proven themselves as individuals who work for the good of all. I have never supported moving anyone “up the professional ladder” to get them out of the way or out of direct service. So, I continue to struggle to understand why an extremist like Pinchas was elevated to the priesthood and blessed with a Brit Shalom – a Covenant of Peace.
This year, as I read the parsha I also struggle with current events. I am reminded that our foundational text teaches that Israel is the Promised Land – the land promised and allocated to the Children of Israel. Yet we know that other traditions feel they have a right to the land, as well.
Israeli writer, reporter, and commentator Ari Shavit spoke to the leadership of the Union for Reform Judaism just before Shabbat began in Israel. When asked about the current situation and the possibility for peace, he noted that over time “the moderates on all sides have failed to find a way to work together to bring a peaceful solution at opportune moments. So the extremists continue to be in charge and we all suffer the consequences.” He continued, sharing that he believes there is never a time to stop seeking peace and that the moderates need to move forward despite the efforts and voices of extremists to deter the process.
What needs to be done to ensure that thoughtful leaders who are committed to finding a fair, balanced path towards peace are empowered to move forward? What role can we have in supporting those who work towards a fair and lasting peace, giving them strength as they work for a collaborative, long term resolution to a centuries old struggle amid the opposition of extremists?
In B’Midbar verse 27:16 we are reminded that Adonai is the G-d of the spirits of all. As he is being told it will soon be his time to climb the mountain and leave B’nai Yisrael, Moses asks for G-d to find a new leader for the Jewish people who will lead them safely in the unchartered journey ahead. Today we need such leaders on all sides; leaders who are willing to clearly articulate needs and compassionately listen to the needs of others; leaders who are willing to think creatively together to explore paths towards peace.
May the voices of leaders who are committed to the safety and security of all people and who will work to build a peace for this moment and for generations to come be empowered to work for shalom. May we pray for it and work to ensure that a Covenant of Peace will exist throughout the Middle East, and throughout the world.
Prior to her position with the Grinspoon Foundation, Iris served as a synagogue educator in Syracuse NY, the Central New York PJ Library Program Coordinator and as a national consultant for PJ Library.
Iris holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Special Education, a master’s degree in Special Education and Reading, and Advanced Certification in School Leadership and Administration. Her experience as a secular educator and educational leader in congregational and community settings spans over 20 years. She is also a lay leader in Jewish organizations on the local and national levels. Iris served as the President of CAJE – the Coalition for the Advancement of Jewish Education, which was the largest member organization for Jewish educators in the country.
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