And trust me, the list is pretty surprising.

The passage we're looking at today focuses on Psalm 80, specifically the verse "Before Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh." Now, these are three of the twelve tribes of Israel, the children of Jacob. But what does that have to do with things that have been around since forever?

That’s where it gets interesting. The Midrash uses this verse as a springboard to discuss five ancient forces. These aren't physical objects, necessarily, but rather, primal energies.

First up: Strength. "Awaken your strength," the text quotes, referencing another verse (Psalm 80:3). It's a fundamental force, this raw power, necessary for survival and, perhaps, for good.

Next, the bow. Not just any bow, but "Your bow was made ready." This speaks to preparation, to the potential for action, the readiness to defend or to act.

Then comes the sword: "Awake, O sword, against my shepherd!" A much more direct and aggressive image. The sword represents conflict, but also justice, perhaps.

The arm is fourth on the list: "Awake, put on strength, O arm of the Lord!" This isn't just any arm; it's the arm of God! Symbolizing divine power, intervention, and protection.

And finally – brace yourself – jealousy. "For jealousy is the rage of a man," the Midrash reminds us. Jealousy! Alongside strength and divine power! It's a bit jarring, isn't it? That something so… human, so flawed, could be considered a primal force. It suggests that jealousy, in its own twisted way, has been a driving force throughout history.

So, what's the connection to Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh? The Midrash continues with a lament: "Woe to Ephraim, [and Benjamin,] and Manasseh…" leading to a cry for salvation. The tribes, representing the people of Israel, are in distress.

Rabbi Helkiyah, quoting Rabbi Abbahu, offers a glimmer of hope. "And go," he says, explaining that all our salvation lies in: "'God, cause us to return and cause Your face to shine, and we will be saved.'" It's a prayer for redemption, for divine grace to illuminate their path.

Rabbi (often understood to be Rabbi Judah haNasi, the redactor of the Mishnah) adds a simple, powerful sentiment: "We only have the radiance of Your face." In other words, all we need is God's favor, God's presence.

What are we to make of all this? Well, the Midrash isn't just giving us a history lesson. It's inviting us to contemplate the fundamental forces that shape our world and ourselves. Strength, readiness, conflict, divine power, and, yes, even jealousy. These forces are ancient, powerful, and always present. The key, perhaps, lies in how we choose to wield them, and in remembering that, ultimately, our salvation depends on something greater than ourselves.