Midrash, the art of interpreting scripture, often shines a spotlight on just that: the unsung heroes and the hidden connections within the text. Let's dive into a passage from Midrash Tehillim, a collection of interpretations on the Book of Psalms, specifically Psalm 118, and see what gems we can unearth.
The verse we're focusing on speaks of someone (or some group) saying, "Please, House of Aaron, what have I done to all those who stood against them?" It's a curious line, isn't it? Who is speaking, and who are these opponents?
The Midrash doesn't leave us hanging. It connects this verse to several figures, starting with Aaron himself, the High Priest. Remember the stories of rebellion against his authority? Korah and his followers, who challenged Aaron's leadership, met a dramatic end when the earth swallowed them whole (Numbers 16). Then there was Uzziah, the king who dared to perform the priestly duty of burning incense in the Temple, resulting in a divine punishment of leprosy (2 Chronicles 26:16-21).
So, the question becomes: what did Aaron do to deserve such divine protection? The Midrash answers that it was Aaron's integrity and devotion to God. As the prophet Malachi (2:6) says, "He walked with Me in peace and uprightness." He was a man of peace, dedicated to serving God honestly. Not only that, but "The Torah of truth was in his mouth" (Malachi 2:6). Aaron wasn't just a priest; he was a teacher, sharing God's wisdom with the people. In essence, Aaron's reward was a direct result of his commitment to truth, teaching, and peace.
But Aaron isn't the only one highlighted here. The Midrash broadens the scope, connecting the plea, "Please, House of Aaron," to the Hebrew midwives in Egypt who defied Pharaoh's decree to kill newborn Israelite boys. We read in Exodus (1:17) that "the midwives feared God" and refused to obey the king's wicked command. And then the text asks, "What have I done to their houses...?"
What's the connection between the midwives and the House of Aaron? At first glance, it might seem tenuous. But the Midrash is drawing a parallel: both Aaron and the midwives demonstrated unwavering loyalty to God, even when facing powerful opposition. Aaron stood strong against those who challenged his authority, and the midwives stood strong against the might of Pharaoh. Both chose righteousness over self-preservation.
This is a powerful lesson. It reminds us that righteousness comes in many forms, from the high-profile leadership of an Aaron to the quiet courage of ordinary women. It also suggests that God's protection extends to those who act with integrity, whether they're priests, teachers, or simply people who choose to do what's right.
The Midrash here isn't just telling us stories; it’s teaching us about values. It’s showing us that even seemingly small acts of defiance against injustice can have profound consequences. It encourages us to look beyond the famous figures and appreciate the everyday heroes who embody the same principles of faith, integrity, and courage. So, the next time you feel like your efforts are going unnoticed, remember Aaron and the midwives. Their stories remind us that God sees, and values, every act of righteousness, no matter how small it may seem.