A Jew is Never Stuck
Hearing the words “A Jew is never stuck” from young American visitors during the Livnot U’Lehibanot program was profoundly moving. These students, scheduled to return home during a conflict with Iran, found their flights unexpectedly canceled. Rather than succumbing to discouragement, they chose to focus their energies on an act of community service by repairing and repainting bomb shelters in northern Tzefat.
This powerful sentiment echoes a well-known tale of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. In that story, a group of Chabad women caught in an airport during a snowy Friday reached out to the Rebbe. When they expressed their distress over being stranded, his response was simple yet inspiring: “Stuck? There is no such thing; wherever a Jew is, he has a mission to fulfill.” Encouraged by his words, the women began seeking out others who had forgotten to light their Shabbat candles, offering them what they needed to observe the tradition.
Jews Stick Together
In response to these reflections, Shira—a mother who recently returned to Israel on a rescue flight from New York after an extended stay—shared her own experience. Although her visit had been prolonged by unforeseen circumstances, her time in the United States turned into an uplifting journey. An inspiring concert and heartfelt remembrances of her son, who made the ultimate sacrifice, filled her extra days with warmth and comfort. When she later spoke at community gatherings, many women approached her, touched by her words of strength. Her story is a reminder that even when separated by distance or hardship, the Jewish community remains united.
A Graduation Day Message
This year’s graduation celebrations carry an unexpected lesson drawn from the Torah’s Book of Numbers. Just as the Jewish people wandered in the desert for forty years—facing challenges, victories, and setbacks—with the Mishkan at the center of their journey, today’s graduates have also navigated tumultuous times. Having begun their early education during a pandemic and weathered significant national trials, they now step forward carrying the values instilled in them by their families and teachers. These enduring values serve as their spiritual sanctuary, echoing the centrality of the Mishkan—a symbol of identity, holiness, and community.
During several recent graduation ceremonies, students were asked to reflect on what remained unshaken amidst the chaos. Their responses revealed that sometimes, it is the very challenges they face that bring them closer to their core identity. The experience has reinforced the message that the strength of one’s values is as eternal and unchangeable as the spiritual center around which everything in life revolves.
Some Things Will Always Remain Hidden
This week’s Torah portion, Chukat, introduces the commandment to bring a flawless red heifer for purification—a commandment that defies conventional explanation. Labelled a “statute” or chok, it is presented as a divine mystery that should not be questioned in the usual manner. For generations, sages and philosophers have probed into the reasons behind such commandments, seeking to uncover layers of meaning, while acknowledging that some aspects will always remain beyond human understanding.
Maimonides cautions that while it is important to delve into the depths of Torah wisdom, one must also recognize when further inquiry may lead us astray. In embracing both the pursuit of knowledge and the acceptance of mystery, we are reminded that not every divine decree will reveal its secret. Some mysteries, by their very nature, are meant to remain hidden.
Embracing Faith, One Insight at a Time!
The teachings of the Quran have always guided my path. With a deep passion for Islamic knowledge, I strive to blend the wisdom of tradition with the relevance of today, making the timeless messages of Islam accessible and meaningful for everyone.
Muslim Culture Hub is my platform to share historical insights and thought-provoking articles, exploring both well-known and lesser-discussed aspects of Islamic culture and beliefs. My mission is to create an inclusive online space where everyone can learn, strengthen their faith, and connect with the profound message of Islam.
Join the journey!
May peace be upon you.
