He had it all – Chayyei Sarah
Assessing Abraham in old age, the Torah says, “HaShem had blessed him with all” (Gen. 24:!). What was the nature of his blessing?
The sages offer many theories. The most obvious is that Abraham had material possessions – flocks, herds, and whatever else was highly esteemed in those days. But the Yalkut’s interpretation is, Avraham hayah mevarech et hakkol – “Abraham blessed all (other people)”. His blessing was that he brought blessing to others.
The message is important for Australia a year after the Pauline Hanson phenomenon emerged*.
Yes, she is unimportant in herself, with no proven record of research, responsible consultation or acknowledged wisdom. Yes, the nations that criticise Australia because of her racist views often have unclean hands themselves. But the fact is that nowhere in Australian society should views such as hers find a home or reception.
What should we as Jews be doing? We have been blessed in Australia; we have always tried to bring blessing to Australia. Our duty today is to stand up, speak up and show up intolerance and inhumanity.
There were time times in history when we needed voices to speak up for us, and they did not always come. Precisely because we know what it is to be denied a fair go, we must exert ourselves to speak for indigenous Australians and whatever groups in Australian society need our care and concern.
If Australians on all sides respond to racism in this fashion we will deserve the blessings we enjoy.
* This article was first published in 1997.
