It’s even found a reflection in our ancient texts.
We're going to dive into a short but powerful passage from Sifrei Devarim, specifically section 320. It’s a fascinating little glimpse into the relationship between us and the Divine.
The passage starts with a variant reading of a phrase: "and you have forgotten the G-d mecholalecha." What does mecholalecha mean? Well, it suggests something profound: the G-d "who forgives you (mochel lecha) for all of your sins." A God not just of judgment, but of profound forgiveness.
But here's where it gets really interesting, and frankly, a little heartbreaking.
Devarim (Deuteronomy) 32:19 states, "And the L-rd saw and thrust away." Now, Rabbi Yehudah offers a startling interpretation of this verse. He says that at the very time they are seen favorably by Him, they thrust Him away! Talk about a mixed message! It goes on to say this was done "in anger at His sons and daughters."
So, what's going on here?
It seems like we're dealing with a paradox. A God of forgiveness, a God who sees us favorably... and yet, we, in our flawed humanity, push that away, almost instinctively. Why would we do that?
Perhaps it’s because we feel unworthy of that forgiveness. Maybe we’re so caught up in our own anger, our own pain, that we can't see the outstretched hand. Or could it be that we simply forget? We forget the source of comfort, the source of forgiveness, in the heat of the moment.
The truth is, this short passage is a powerful reminder. A reminder to recognize the Divine presence in our lives, especially when it offers forgiveness and favor. A reminder to not let our anger or our feelings of unworthiness blind us to the love that’s being offered.
It's a call to be mindful, to be present, and to remember the One who is always there, ready to forgive.
Because, as the Sifrei Devarim gently suggests, the tragedy isn't that God turns away from us, but that we, in our own way, so often turn away from God. And that's something worth pondering, isn't it?