Who are they?" Well, the Cushites were an ancient people from the region of Cush, generally understood to be in modern-day Sudan and Ethiopia. They were often depicted as having darker skin. So, what's the connection to the Israelites?

Rabbi Tachanah, in Pirkei DeRabbi Eliezer 53, offers a fascinating explanation. He points to the verse in Amos 9:7: "Are ye not as the children of the Cushites unto me, O children of Israel?" This verse seems to equate the Israelites with the Cushites, but why?

Rabbi Tachanah suggests that just as the Cushite’s physical appearance stood out, so too do the Israelites stand out from other nations. But not because of their appearance, but because of their deeds and their ways of life. The Israelites are distinct because of their commitment to ethical monotheism, to following God's commandments, to acts of kindness and justice. They are called Cushites because they are different, set apart by their unique relationship with God and their dedication to living a righteous life.

But the story doesn't end there. Pirkei DeRabbi Eliezer continues with another intriguing example. Consider the story of Ebed-melech, the Cushite, who bravely spoke out to King Zedekiah in defense of the prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah 38:7-13).

The text poses a question: Was it truly Ebed-melech who spoke to the king? Wasn't it actually Baruch, son of Neriah, Jeremiah's loyal scribe? Pirkei DeRabbi Eliezer answers that just as the Cushite was physically different from other people, so too was Baruch different in his actions and his virtuous ways. He, too, was a kind of "Cushite" in that he stood apart from others through his exceptional character. Even though Baruch wasn't literally a Cushite, his righteous behavior earned him the title.

What’s so powerful about this interpretation is that it reframes what it means to be “different.” It's not about physical appearance or origin, but about moral character and ethical behavior. It suggests that anyone, regardless of their background, can become a "Cushite" by choosing to live a life of righteousness and standing up for what is right.

The idea that one can become a "Cushite" through righteous actions is a powerful message of inclusivity and moral responsibility. It reminds us that our actions define us, and that we have the power to choose to be different, to be better, to be a light unto the nations. As we find in Midrash Rabbah, this concept of choosing righteousness is a continuous theme in Jewish thought.

So, the next time you feel like an outsider, remember the story of the Israelites as Cushites. Remember that being different isn't necessarily a bad thing. It can be an opportunity to shine, to stand out for your good deeds, and to make a positive impact on the world. What kind of "Cushite" will you choose to be?