Gaea's

Despite being set in the midst of a corrupt Egyptian society, the Jewish community was flourishing with schools, synagogues and social networks, and assimilation was virtually non-existent, and it was because they made a pact amongst themselves not to change their names, style of dress, or language. With these safeguards, they were able to keep a healthy distance. As Rabbi Shraga Simmons explains, at the beginning of this week’s Parsha, Shemot, the tide turned: Immediately after the old generation died, the Jewish People spread throughout Egypt and the assimilation began. They dropped their Jewish customs and blended into secular society. Immediately, verse 8 reports the rise of anti-Semitism in Egypt. What makes this so unusual is that hatred of one group for another is typically due to what sociologists call “dislike of the unlike.” The Egyptians didn’t mind as long as the Jews kept to themselves. It was once they began to resemble “regular Egyptians” that the anti-Semitism began. The dual loyalty issue had reared its ugly head. Anti-Semitism is often generated with the perception that Jews have power and influence.

It’s happening again today and, as we can see from this week’s Parsha, the consequences are devastating. Jews are apathetic and disinterested. But if you’re reading this, you are amongst those who care. We can break the cycle and turn our ship around by making the commitment to Jewish education and Jewish observance. The Torah offers literally thousands of opportunities to express our Jewish identity on a regular basis. Light Shabbos candles, or say the Shema. Listen in your Jewish studies classes, or start a lunchtime study group. Judaism is not all-or-nothing. The options are endless. The experience is transforming. The reward is eternal.

Related posts:

1. Dvar for Vaeira (Exodus 6:2-9:35)
2. Dvar for Vaeira (Exodus 6:2-9:34)
3. Dvar for Shemot (Exodus 1:1-6:1)
4. Dvar for Beshalach (Exodus 13:17-17:16)
5. Dvar for Beshalach (Exodus 13:17-17:16)
6. Dvar for Mishpatim (Exodus 21:1-24:18)
7. Dvar for Yitro (Exodus 18:1-20:23)
8. Dvar for Bo (Exodus 10:1-13:16)
9. Dvar for Yitro (Exodus 18:1-20:23)
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11. Dvar for Terumah (Exodus 25:1-27:19)
12. Dvar for Vayakhel/Pekudei (Exodus 35:1-40:38)
13. Dvar for Tetzaveh (Exodus 27:20-30:10)
14. Dvar for Ki Tisa (Exodus 30:11-34:35)
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