Navigating Imperfection: A Path of Atonement, Uplifting Others, and Longing for Peace in Judaism
Judaism recognizes that humans are inherently flawed and that perfection is reserved for the Divine. Even our most outstanding examples of human beings in Jewish history had their shortcomings. Understanding this, Judaism provides a framework for atonement and repentance called "Teshuvah," which means "return" or "turning onto the right path." This concept is emphasized in the weekly Torah portion Naso.
In the Torah portion Naso, God instructs Moses that when someone realizes they have wronged another person and wishes to make amends, they must confess their wrongdoing and make restitution. This teaching highlights the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions and seeking forgiveness directly from the person harmed. It contrasts with the modern style of non-apologies often heard from civic leaders, where the focus is shifted away from personal responsibility.
In the biblical context, forgiveness was not granted unless the wrongdoer admitted their wrongdoing to themselves and those they harmed. Ritualistic actions or going through the motions were not enough. Judaism emphasizes that actions hold significant weight, and when we harm someone, we must actively seek forgiveness and make amends.
This week's Torah portion of Naso, which also means "to lift" or "to carry," encourages us to reflect on how we can uplift and support others all while remaining mindful of the brokenness that exists within ourselves. This call prompts us to forge a closer connection with the Divine, elevating the presence of holiness in our lives.
Furthermore, peace is a fundamental desire within Judaism, and it's a recurring theme throughout our tradition. Naso provides us with the priestly blessing, found in Numbers 6:24-26.Â
May God bless you and keep you safe.
May God's presence shine upon you, and be gracious to you;
May God's face be lifted toward you and give you peace.
This blessing invokes God's protection, grace, and peace upon the recipients, underscoring our yearning for peace.
This desire for peace is deeply embedded in Jewish texts and liturgy. Prayers for peace permeate our religious rituals. The Amidah, the central prayer in Jewish liturgy, concludes with "Sim Shalom," a heartfelt plea for peace, the request for peace in the blessings after a meal (Birkat Hamazon), and the welcoming of angels of peace in the Shabbat song "Shalom Aleichem." Even the full Kaddish concludes with the words "Oseh Shalom," expressing our longing for God to bring peace.Â
In summary, Judaism embraces our human imperfections and offers a path of atonement and repentance through Teshuvah. This week's Torah portion emphasizes the importance of confessing wrongdoing and making restitution while also encouraging us to lift up others and nurture holiness within ourselves. Additionally, the deep-rooted desire for peace resonates throughout our tradition, manifesting in prayers and blessings that express our longing for peace in our lives and the world.
As we strive to live our lives in accordance with Jewish values, let us remember that we are all imperfect beings capable of both great good and sometimes we miss the mark. Let us also remember that we are all connected to one another and that our actions have a ripple effect on the world around us. Let us work together to create a more peaceful and just world, one Teshuvah at a time.