Rabbi Roodyn

The book of Bereishis concludes with Yaakov blessing his sons prior to his death. This is far more than an emotional good-bye and farewell. Rather Yaakov is bequeathing them moral messages, tools and resources to enable them and their descendants to fulfil their unique roles in building the Jewish nation. Each of the tribes receives a unique blessing, some of which do not appear to even be a blessing at all.

A case in point is the first three sons, Reuven, Shimon and Levi. Reuven is criticised for being displaying instability like water and Shimon and Levi leave with their anger being cursed. Of course it goes without saying that these were the yud beis shivtei kah whose shortcomings cannot be interpreted through our own mortal eyes, however Yaakov’s paring message is still of incredible importance to us all.

Rav Hirsch contrasts the blessing of Reuven with that of Shimon and Levi. He explains that whereas Reuven was not sufficiently independent and lacked inner stability (as expressed by his interfering with his father’s sleeping arrangements), Shimon and Levi were fiercely aware of  their own strength. When the welfare of the family was at stake they acted ruthlessly. It is highly significant that here, at the laying of the cornerstone of the Jewish people, a curse is pronounced on any violent outburst that runs counter to justice and morality even if it is intended for the greater good.

Rav Hirsch then contrasts the Torah’s approach to that of realpolitik. He claims that most states adopt the principle that any action is essentially legitimate as long as it serves the interests of the state. Acts of cunning and violence that would be punished by ostracism, imprisonment or even execution if practiced by an individual for selfish gain are rewarded by civic honours if they are committed for the alleged welfare of the state. The laws of morality apply only in private life, whereas in politics and diplomacy they only recognised law is that of national self-interest.

Here, by way of contrast, one of the founding principles of the Jewish people is a curse on cunning and violence even if they are used for the nation’s legitimate interests. This sets down the doctrine for all time that even in public life and in the promotion of the common good, not only must the ends be pure but so must the means.

As such, it is only their anger that is cursed and not their passion or pride. They are scattered amongst the Jewish people, so that wherever we go we will always have the positive aspect of Shimon and Levi amongst us. In exile there was always the real and present danger that all self-respect would be lost and all spiritual vitality would run dry. The positive side of Shimon and Levi is the strength, courage, fervour and Jewish pride that has remained strong throughout the last 2000 years.

Wishing you a good Shabbos