In Memory of Shimon Peres z”l

The Haftara for Parshat Nitzavim, the seventh of the prophecies of consolation seems to describe exactly what took place in Jerusalem today, on the morning of Shimon Peres’ funeral (Yishayahu 62:1-2):

For Zion’s sake, I will not be silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not be still, until her righteousness shall go forth like a bright light and her salvation shall flame like a torch. And nations shall perceive your righteousness and kings your honor and you shall be called a new name which the mouth of God shall articulate.

Today, Israel stands as a bright light which is respected by many nations whose leaders gathered to pay their respects to Shimon Peres and to the State of Israel. Among those who were represented were presidents, ministers and royalty of some of the most powerful countries in the world.

According to Amos Chacham’s commentary in Da’at Mikra, the idea from Yishayahu of giving Jerusalem a new name refers to the idea that when someone rises to power they earn a new name for themselves. Israel will rise from weakness to strength and from lowliness to greatness.

The prophecy teaches that Jerusalem will no longer be disgraced or destroyed and that God will once again dwell there.

The fact that leaders who represent more than half of humanity changed their schedules at the last minute in order to show their respects in the State of Israel is a step in the direction of the fulfillment of the prophecy.

Rashi comments that there will only be true peace once the righteousness of Jerusalem shines.

Our next step in fulfilling the remainder of the prophecy of bringing peace to Jerusalem is to perform acts of tzedaka, justice and righteousness.