And it's one the ancient rabbis explored deeply through their interpretations of the Book of Psalms, or Tehillim. to a fascinating passage from Midrash Tehillim, specifically on Psalm 18, where we find layers of meaning about enemies, divine support, and the power of righteousness.
"Save me from my powerful enemies," the psalm cries out. Rabbi Simon, in the Midrash, interprets this on the "third day" – perhaps alluding to the third day of creation, or another significant "third day" in Jewish history. But who are these enemies? Well, the most obvious one, according to Rabbi Simon, is Pharaoh. The verse "The enemy said" (Exodus 15:9) is brought as evidence. Pharaoh, with all his might, represents the immediate, oppressive enemy.
But the Midrash doesn't stop there. It layers on another, more insidious enemy: Amalek. "They will precede me on my day of calamity," the psalm continues, and this is linked to Amalek, "who met you on the way" (Deuteronomy 25:18). Amalek represents the enemy that attacks from behind, the one that preys on weakness and vulnerability, a constant threat on our journey. Talk about a double whammy!
So, how do we face such overwhelming opposition? The psalm offers an answer: "And the Lord was my support." The Midrash connects this to the story of Moses holding up his hands during the battle with Amalek, "And Moses' hands were heavy" (Exodus 17:12). God's support, like the support Aaron and Hur provided to Moses, is crucial in overcoming adversity. It’s a reminder that we're not alone in this fight.
And what's the reward for remaining steadfast? "He brought me out to a spacious place," the psalm proclaims, which is then expanded upon with a quote from Job (11:9), "Its measure is longer than the earth and wider than the sea." This "spacious place" isn’t just physical; it’s a state of being, a sense of liberation and possibility that comes from overcoming challenges with divine assistance. Freedom, in other words.
Now, here's where it gets really interesting. "He will rescue me because He delights in me, and He will repay me according to my righteousness." The Midrash connects this to the tribe of Levi, specifically, who were not involved in the sin of the Golden Calf. "And what is the strength of my hands that I should return to it?" is interpreted by Rabbi Pinchas as a testament to the "clarity of my hands," meaning purity and innocence. They remained loyal to God, even when others faltered.
Rabbi Berechiah, quoting Rabbi Shimon ben Lakish, explains Moses' call at the gate of the camp ("Whoever is for the Lord, come to me!") not as the King needing servants nearby, but as an invitation: "whoever did not contribute to the calf should come to me." And who answered the call? "And all the Levites gathered to him" (Exodus 32:26).
This act of devotion, this unwavering commitment to God, is what earns them favor. "For all his judgments are before me," the Midrash continues, referencing Deuteronomy (33:10), "and they teach your judgments to Jacob." The Levites, through their righteousness, become teachers and guides for the entire community. "And I will be complete with Him, and He will be my light and support for the righteous."
So, what does all this mean for us today? It's a powerful reminder that we all face "enemies" in our lives, both internal and external. But by staying true to our values, by seeking divine support, and by striving for righteousness, we too can find our way to that "spacious place," that state of freedom and fulfillment. The story of the Levites reminds us that sometimes, choosing the harder, more righteous path, even when others are faltering, is precisely what allows us to become beacons of light for others. Isn't that a beautiful and inspiring thought?