It’s a question that leads us down a fascinating path through history, prophecy, and the very nature of divine acceptance.

Think about the Tabernacle, and later the Temple in Jerusalem. Gold, silver, brass… these were the materials of choice. But iron? Conspicuously absent. According to rabbinic tradition, this wasn’t accidental. God, in his infinite wisdom, was sending a message.

Why exclude iron? The Sages explain that iron represented the destructive power of nations who would one day threaten Israel. The Zohar tells us that the gold, silver, and brass symbolize Babylon, Media, and Greece – empires that would, in time, offer gifts to the rebuilt Temple in the Messianic era. But iron? That was Rome.

Now, you might be thinking, "Wait a minute! Babylon destroyed the Temple too, didn't they?" Absolutely. But, as the text implies, there was a crucial difference. Rome’s destruction was characterized by a uniquely ferocious and unrelenting hatred. They cried, "Raze it, raze it, even to the foundations thereof!" Their animosity ran deeper. Because of this, Rome, in this symbolic reading, would be forever barred from contributing to the Messianic Temple.

And it doesn't stop there. The narrative extends into the Messianic future, painting a picture of all nations bringing gifts to the Messiah. Egypt will come, bearing offerings. Initially, the Messiah will hesitate. After all, Egypt was the land of slavery, the taskmaster of Israel. But God, in his compassion, will say, "The Egyptians granted My children an abode in their land; do not repulse them." So, the Messiah will accept their gifts.

Following Egypt will be Ethiopia, reasoning that if the former oppressor was accepted, surely they would be too. And the Messiah will accept Ethiopia’s gifts as well. Then, kingdom after kingdom will approach, each bearing treasures, each hoping for divine favor. And all will be accepted… except Rome.

Imagine the disappointment! Rome, with its powerful empire and assumed kinship with Israel (through Esau, grandson of Abraham), would expect preferential treatment. They might believe their wealth and influence would surely sway the Messiah. But God Himself will intervene, calling out to the Messiah: "Roar at this monster that devours the fat of nations, that justifies its claims for recognition through being a descendant of Abraham by his grandson Esau, the nation that forgives all for the sake of money, that kept Israel back from the study of the Torah, and tempted them to deeps that are in accord with the wishes of Satan."

This passage, as retold in Ginzberg's Legends of the Jews, isn't just a historical footnote. It's a powerful reminder that true acceptance isn't about power or wealth or lineage, but about genuine repentance and a turning away from destructive forces. It makes you think about what truly matters in the eyes of the Divine, doesn't it? It makes you wonder about the qualities that truly build lasting relationships and enduring peace. And perhaps, that’s the most important lesson of all.