The Power of Choice and the Call for Justice in Parashat Re'eh

Aug 30, 2024

man holding card with seeking human kindness text — Photo by Matt Collamer on Unsplash

In this week's Torah portion, Parashat Re'eh, we encounter a powerful directive: "There shall be no needy among you." This statement isn't just an ideal—it's a clear call to action. The Torah emphasizes that we have a responsibility to care for those who are struggling, ensuring that everyone in our community has what they need to live with dignity. But what does that mean for us today?

It means recognizing that poverty and inequality are not just issues for others to solve—they are challenges that demand our attention and effort. Addressing these issues goes beyond acts of charity; it involves working toward a society where everyone can access the resources they need. It's about looking at the bigger picture and asking ourselves, how can we contribute to a world where no one is left behind? The command that "there shall be no needy" pushes us to reflect on our own role in creating a more just and equitable world. It reminds us that our actions—whether through giving, advocating for change, or simply being aware—can make a real difference in the lives of others.

This idea of responsibility leads directly to another central theme of Parashat Re'eh: the power of choice. In this Torah portion, Moses presents the Israelites with a stark choice: blessing or curse, life or death. He says, "See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse—the blessing if you obey the commandments…the curse if you do not." This isn't just an ancient outdated directive; it's a powerful reminder that the choices we make every day have profound consequences.

Here's where these two themes connect: choosing to create a society where there is no needy is, in itself, choosing the blessing. When we choose to act with kindness, to support those in need, and to stand up against inequality, we are actively choosing a path that leads to blessings not only for ourselves but for our entire community. The decision to care for the vulnerable, to ensure that no one is left behind, is a reflection of choosing the blessing that Moses speaks of.

As we go about our daily lives, let's be mindful of the choices we make. Every decision offers an opportunity to bring more blessings into the world. Whether it's through supporting a cause, lending a hand to someone in need, or simply choosing compassion over indifference, our actions have the power to transform our communities and, ultimately, our world. Let's choose blessings—not just for ourselves, but for everyone, and work toward a future where dignity and justice are within reach for all.

I just released the following “Justice, Where Have You Gone,” song that speaks to the theme of caring for those in need, directly reflecting this week's Torah portion. This song was born out of my deep concern following the Supreme Court's decision permitting the punishment of unhoused individuals—a ruling that I believe is a moral failing. It’s a shanda, a disgrace to our nation and it stands in stark contrast to the core values of compassion and justice that lie at the heart of Jewish tradition.