The prophecies are being fulfilled |
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. |