Making Peace

This parsha is so rich with lessons about peace and community from HaShem. Naso is the longest parsha in the Torah with 176 chapters, each one a glimpse into the way of peace that HaShem has in store for His wayward bride.

In the case of the wayward wife, HaShem gives her a way to make peace, peace with her husband and peace with herself. But most importantly beloved, a way to make peace with HaShem Himself. Nothing in Torah is happenstance. I find it interesting that in the curse HaShem's name is mentioned twice, HaShem is not only ready to put His name on the line for His bride, He is ready to do it twice. The law of the sotah is the only law that requires the wiping away of HaShem's name. Beloved, HaShem is so concerned with marital peace that He is willing to allow this. The sages say that there was never a case brought before the court on this matter.

We are privileged to sit in on the dedication of the Tabernacle, during which time the twelve princes bring their gifts, each the same so that no one could boast, thus keeping the peace between brothers. Although we say the same prayers each day they are brought forth from the heart of each individual in a way unique to us, with intention unique to us, thus bringing peace between HaShem and ourselves in a very unique and personal way. It was the same with the princes gifts, each the same, yet each unique to each individual.

The highlight of the parsha is the Priestly Blessing, which the Kohanim bestow on the people on behalf of HaShem. It concludes with the words "May G*D turn His face to you and give you peace Numbers 6:26. This is a timeless gift from HaShem to us. When you bless something or someone it is released from restrictions and limitations. The object of the blessing becomes infused with unlimited power and potential. May HaShem bless you beloved! We usually translate the word shalom as peace but it is so much more. It is a picture of wholeness, wellness, completeness, joy, harmony, safety, security, a life lived with purpose, a life empowered by HaShem to achieve its Divine destiny.

The sages give us four qualities that lead to a life of peace: acting only for G*D's sake, seeing the good in others, focusing on the benefits of this behavior and being humble and satisfied with the minimum. Most important of all beloved is to learn to be at peace with ourselves.
Shabbat Shalom, Elizabeth