In the Light of the Jewish Idea of Rabbi Kahane
"Alone- Not Lonely"

 by Nachum Shifren

Our Forefathers never heard of Roy Orbison. There was never any need. This week's parsha hints at the reason why. Out of isolation and removed from the madness of the world, our Fathers developed and evolved into the rock of faith and conviction that was able to be  nurtured from its profound bond with the Creator. Concepts of "one world", "diversity", and multi-culturalism were the antithesis of a way of life based on a total dedication to G-d, a G-d that was rejected absolutely by the rest of the world.

"A People will dwell alone", states our parsha in the name of the infamous prophet, Bilam. Rashi tells us that when the Gentile nations are happy in celebration, we remain removed from their celebration. Likewise, when we celebrate, they are clueless and indifferent as to our love for the Sabbath and Festivals and other joyous occasions.

History will record that there were two streams of thought in Jewish history. One is symbolized by the likes of our "leaders"- Beilin, Peres, Olmert- indeed, almost any Israeli politician: uniting with the world, acceptance of foreign culture and ideologies in an attempt to ingratiate and blur real differences between Israel and the destiny of the rest of the world. Another stream seeks to remind us of who we are, and our strength as defined in our Torah.

Can anyone seriously believe, at this late period in human history, that more assimilation and aping of our Gentile neighbors can promise our continued survival as a people? Time to re-read the prophet Bilam's fateful proclamation about who we are and what we should expect.

Shabbat shalom to all