Echoes of Bondage: Mishpatim, Black History Month, and the Enduring Struggle for Freedom

Photo by Eyasu Etsub on Unsplash

In this week's exploration of our collective journey toward freedom, our reflections take on a deeper, more poignant significance as we delve into the Torah portion Mishpatim during Black History Month. This portion transitions us from the narrative of a people once trapped in the merciless grip of slavery to a discourse rich in laws designed for a free society. The Torah states, "Now these are the laws (mishpatim) that you, (Moses) shall set before them," ushering in a new era for the Israelites, who, after enduring 400 years of bondage, find themselves in dire need of guidance on how to navigate their newfound freedom.

The introduction of laws concerning slavery as the first set of regulations might appear counterintuitive at first glance. The Torah mandates, “When you acquire a Hebrew slave, that person shall serve six years—and shall go free in the seventh year…” This does not abolish slavery but rather institutes a set of protections for enslaved people, suggesting an inability to envision a society entirely free of this institution. While the Torah does not provide direct answers to why it does not outright abolish slavery, Mishpatim lays the groundwork for a system that, ultimately, encourages the abolition of slavery through the evolution of moral and ethical laws.

The institution of slavery, as depicted in the Torah and throughout human history, often arose from debt, crime, or the outcomes of war, fundamentally differing from the racially motivated slavery that would later plague America. The demand for labor transformed slavery into a system where one's status as an enslaved person was determined by skin color and became a hereditary curse.

As an American, a woman, a Jew, and a descendant of American enslaved people, the resonance of this week's Torah portion with the legacy of slavery is profound. It serves as a stark reminder of our collective obligation to remember the bitter taste of oppression. Yet, it also celebrates the journey towards liberation and justice, themes that remain ever-relevant as we continue to confront the shadows of systemic racism and inequality.

Reflecting on the journey from the historical bondage of the Israelites to the systemic injustices that persist in our society today, it is evident that while significant strides towards freedom and equality have been made, the road ahead remains arduous and fraught with challenges. The progress achieved since the civil rights movement of the 1960s showcases humanity's capacity for growth and change. Yet, the enduring issues of racial profiling, income inequality, and unequal access to education and healthcare underscore the complexities of eradicating systemic racism in the United States.

As we honor Black History Month and draw inspiration from the Torah portion Mishpatim, we are reminded of the resilience and perseverance of those who have fought for justice. As Martin Luther King Jr. taught us,

"We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly. Never again can we afford to live with the narrow, provincial "outside agitator" idea. Anyone who lives inside the United States can never be considered an outsider anywhere within its bounds" - Letter from a Birmingham Jail.

This profound reminder underscores that our aspirations for a society where individuals are valued for their character above all else have yet to be fully achieved. The enduring presence of racial disparities across health, education, and economic sectors starkly highlights that the dream of equality is still a work in progress. It is a call to action, reminding us that the fight for justice and equality is interconnected and ongoing, requiring us to face and address systemic injustices to move closer to realizing King's vision for all.

The fight for justice and equality is an ongoing struggle, requiring the collective effort of every generation. As we reflect on our progress and the challenges that remain, let us commit to becoming agents of change in our communities. Whether through volunteering, engaging in dialogue to bridge divides, or supporting policies that aim to dismantle systemic barriers, each action moves us closer to a world where freedom and justice are not just ideals but realities for all.

"Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere," Martin Luther King Jr. once said. This powerful reminder calls us to action, emphasizing our interconnectedness and shared responsibility in the fight against oppression. As we look to the road ahead, let us draw strength from the progress made and recommit to the work that remains. Only through sustained effort, solidarity, and a commitment to justice can we hope to fulfill the promise of equality for all within the United States.

Today, as we reflect on our shared history and the enduring struggle for civil rights, the lessons of Mishpatim take on new dimensions. We are reminded of the importance of active allyship, education, and the acknowledgment of our history in its full complexity. It compels us to engage in the ongoing work of dismantling systemic barriers to equality, advocating for reparations, and healing the wounds left by centuries of injustice.

In honoring Black History Month, let us draw inspiration from the Torah's teachings and the resilience of those who have fought for freedom throughout history. Let us commit to building a society that truly cherishes freedom, abhors oppression, and ensures legal protections for all its members. Our reflections on Mishpatim invite us to ponder deeply on our roles in promoting justice, equity, and compassion in our interactions with both those we love and those we find challenging to embrace.

This journey, mirroring the Israelites' path from slavery to receiving divine laws, underscores the ongoing struggle against oppression and the imperative to forge a world where freedom and justice are not just ideals but realities for all. In this light, Mishpatim not only recounts a pivotal moment in Jewish history but also challenges us to contribute to the narrative of freedom and justice in our time, honoring the legacy and continuing the fight for civil rights and equality.