Jewish tradition teaches us that we have far more influence than we might realize.
Devarim Rabbah, a collection of rabbinic interpretations on the book of Deuteronomy, sheds light on this very idea. It suggests that God bestows goodness upon the world because of the merit of the Jewish people. It's a pretty radical thought, isn't it?
The text states, "The Holy One blessed be He said to Israel: ‘My children, all the goodness that comes to the world comes due to your merit.'" According to this, everything from the gentle dew that kisses the earth to the life-giving rain is a direct result of our collective actions.
Where does this idea come from? Well, the text goes on to provide scriptural support. It points to Genesis 27:28, "May God give you from the dew of the heavens," suggesting that even dew is a blessing tied to our merit. And regarding rain, it references Deuteronomy 28:12, "The Lord will open for you His good storehouse," linking rainfall to divine favor.
Even shalom, peace, that elusive and precious commodity, is said to be connected to our merit, based on Numbers 6:26, "And grant you peace." It’s a powerful idea, isn’t it? That our actions can ripple outward, influencing the very fabric of the world.
But it's not just us who recognize the blessing of rain! The text recounts an interesting anecdote about a conversation between Rabban Yoḥanan ben Zakai, a prominent first-century sage, and an idolater. The idolater challenges Rabban Yoḥanan, pointing out that both groups have their appointed times of joy. The idolater lists the Roman holidays of Calends, Saturnalia, and Kratesis, and contrasts them with the Jewish holidays of Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot, before asking him, "What is the day that we and you are joyful?”
Rabban Yoḥanan ben Zakai responds, "This is the day of rainfall." He then directs the idolater to the Psalms, specifically Psalm 65:14: "The meadows are covered with flocks of sheep; the valleys are wrapped in grain. They shout for joy, and they sing." And what follows? "A psalm. Shout out to God, all the land" (Psalms 66:1). The implication is clear: rain is a universal cause for celebration, a blessing recognized by all.
So, what does all this mean for us today? It's a reminder that we are all interconnected. Our actions, both big and small, have consequences that extend far beyond ourselves. It's an invitation to consider the impact we have on the world and to strive to live in a way that brings forth blessings, not just for ourselves, but for everyone. Can we live up to this tall order?