Dear Friends,
We are now studying the Book of Numbers, which details a census that is taken of the Children of Israel during their time in the Sinai desert.
It is an often-overlooked passage in the Torah that gives us pause. Did Moses have nothing better to do with his time than counting more than half a million people?
Yet, that is precisely what the Torah is saying:
There is nothing better to do with one's time than count G-d's children. For in the eyes of G-d, counting individuals is far more than keeping score; it is, rather, His way of telling each and every one of His children: "You matter to Me. Deeply. You're not just a number. You're on My speed-dial."
I often think of that woman who came to the Rebbe for a blessing and a dollar. When her turn came, she said: Rebbe, I have been standing in line for just one hour and I’m exhausted, yet you stand here for hours – how don’t you get tired? The Rebbe smiled: “Every Jew is a diamond. And when you count diamonds, you never become tired.”
Each of us was created in the image of G-d. When we strip away the many layers that divide us, at our core we are all equally worthy and have intrinsic value and purpose.
This is the deeper meaning of the Torah portion’s opening words, “Naso es rosh” — to lift up the head. Our mission is to lift one another up, especially in times like these, and help every person recognize their infinite worth.
We must remember to look around us and ensure that we are counting each and every person in our community. Each individual is important, each person counts. Nobody’s contribution is insignificant. No person should ever feel worthless; each of us has a part to play in the greater scheme of things, and each of us counts. When we love our neighbor as ourselves, when we truly see each other as equals, we can restore the bridges that connect us to one another with goodness.
If you feel that someone has counted you out – I am here to tell you that they simply can’t count.
Of all the commands G-d gives in the Torah, the one to conduct a census, a seemingly purposeless task, expresses His love for us, His children the most.
The other commandments say: “I love you, therefore I command you to love your neighbor, to honor your parents, to be honest citizens…”
This one says: “I love you.” Period.
G-d loves you.
Each and every one of you. YOU COUNT.
Shabbat Shalom!
Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos