Chukat
The journey of the Jewish People through the desert continues in this week’s Parsha, where we read about the people demanding water.
What seems as an innocuous request, seems to get Moshe very upset, so much so that he even refers to the people as “rebels.” (Bamidbar 20:10)
At face value, this is difficult to understand. Why was their request for water deemed so unacceptable? Isn’t it a necessity? Why did Moshe view this as a rebellion and not a legitimate need?
The Tzror Hamor, in his analysis of the story, answers this question by focusing on the “Mon,” the unique food that fell from heaven during the travels through the desert.
The “Mon,” he tells us, was unique in many ways. Besides for its ability to taste like many different foods, it also had a semi liquid makeup. In fact in the verse first describing the "Mon," in the book of Shemot, it says; “Behold! I am going to rain down for you bread from heaven” (Shemot 16:4)
Therefore, he continues, eating "Mon" would not cause a person to become thirsty, and also would provide the liquid balance necessary to survive. That is why Moshe was disappointed that the people were demanding water. He felt, that what G‑d had already provided should be appreciated and sufficient.
Ultimately, G‑d accepts the people's request and provides additional water. But perhaps there is a lesson here for us in Moshe’s words. Often times while we look for things and feel like we are missing something, G‑d has already given in it to us. We just need to focus, and pay attention to what we have.
Shabbat Shalom!
Portuguese Jewish history is a rich tapestry of accomplishment and challenge spanning the centuries. Portugal's shores have produced and housed some of our greatest Rabbis and leaders. From statesman, leader and scholar Rabbi Don Yitzchak Abarbanel to Shulchan Aruch author Rabbi Yosef Karo in the 15th century through to the Lubavitcher Rebbe's time in Lisbon in 1941, Portugal has enabled tremendous developments in strengthening community and Torah.
It is in recognition of the timeless nature of these commitments, and in honor of all of those Jews who have called Portugal home through times of brilliance and darkness, that these Torah insight's from Portugal's great Rabbis is produced - here in Portugal.
Special thanks to Rabbi Shlomo Pereira for the Portuguese translation.