The mystics of old knew that feeling, and they had something profound to say about it, especially when it comes to finding our place in the world and our connection to something bigger than ourselves.
Midrash Tehillim, specifically Midrash Tehillim 20, offers a beautiful insight into this. It’s a collection of rabbinic teachings, or midrashim, on the Book of Psalms (Tehillim in Hebrew). Imagine a group of scholars, centuries ago, poring over the ancient words, searching for deeper meaning, for hidden truths. That’s the world we’re stepping into.
So, what’s the big idea in this particular midrash?
It begins with flags. Sounds simple, right? But stay with me. The text states, "Let us rejoice in your salvation, and in the name of our God we will raise our banners." We learn that in this world, each person recognizes their flag among all the leaders, like "The standard of the camp of Reuben." (Numbers 2:10) Think of it like this: each tribe in ancient Israel had its own banner, a symbol of identity, a way to distinguish themselves from the others. According to the midrash, this flag wasn't just a pretty piece of cloth. Through the flag, a person recognized their father, and through their father, their entire family. It's a powerful image of belonging and lineage.
But here's the twist.
The midrash contrasts this earthly reality with what’s to come, "But in the future, everyone will raise their banners in the name of our God." What does that mean? It suggests a time when our identities won't be tied to earthly affiliations, to tribes or families or nations, but directly to God. A time when we all recognize our shared connection to the Divine.
Isn't that a powerful thought? That ultimately, our truest identity lies not in what separates us, but in what unites us.
The midrash then quotes the Psalm itself: "The Lord saves; may the King answer us on the day we call." (Psalm 20:10) And also, "May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble." (Psalm 20:2) It points out that the Psalm begins and ends with supplication, with a plea for divine help. "May He answer us on the day we call." This framing emphasizes our constant need for connection and support.
So, what's the takeaway?
Perhaps it's this: while earthly flags and identities can provide a sense of belonging, they are ultimately limited. They can divide as much as they unite. True belonging, true identity, comes from recognizing our shared connection to something greater than ourselves – to the Divine. The future, as envisioned by the midrash, is one where we all raise our banners in the name of God, united in our shared humanity and our shared spiritual journey. A future where our prayers will be answered on the day we call.