That feeling is at the heart of Psalm 124, a song of ascent traditionally sung by pilgrims on their way to the Temple in Jerusalem. But there's so much more to it than just a simple expression of thanks.
This psalm, attributed to David, isn't just about individual salvation; it speaks to the collective experience of the Jewish people. It's a song of deliverance, a recognition that without divine help, we would have been swallowed whole by our enemies. A pretty dramatic image, right? But that’s the point. The psalm uses vivid language to paint a picture of the dangers faced and the gratitude felt for being spared.
Now, here's where it gets really interesting. Within this psalm lies a fascinating reference: "Israel Saba." What does that even mean? Well, saba (סבא) is Hebrew for "grandfather" or "elder." So, Israel Saba (ישראל סבא) literally translates to "Israel the Grandfather" or "Israel the Elder." But it’s not just a term of endearment. It's a way of referring to the Jewish people as a whole, linking them back to their ancestor, Jacob, also known as Israel.
Why Jacob in particular? The Midrash Tehillim, our source for this understanding, connects Jacob to the very spot where the Temple would eventually stand. It tells us that Jacob slept at that sacred location. Can you imagine? This wasn't just any nap! According to the Midrash, it was this experience, this connection to the future site of the Temple, that cemented Jacob's role as the "grandfather" of the nation and gave rise to the term "Israel Saba."
It’s a powerful image: Jacob, the patriarch, dreaming on holy ground, his experience somehow imbuing the entire nation with a sense of divine protection. It’s as if the psalm is saying, “Remember where you come from. Remember the promise made to our ancestor. Remember that even in the darkest times, we are connected to something bigger than ourselves."
So, the next time you hear or read Psalm 124, remember Israel Saba. Remember Jacob's dream. Remember that feeling of gratitude for being delivered from danger. It’s a reminder that we are part of a long and enduring story, a story of resilience, faith, and the unwavering protection of the Divine. And isn't that a story worth singing about?