Translation by Yehoshua Siskin
This is the season of graduation ceremonies. The Torah portion of Shelach that we just read on Shabbat (in Israel) contains the following messages suitable for those finishing their educational journey and setting off on their journey through life.
- "The Land is very very good." Only two of the spies, Yehoshua and Kalev, declare that the Land is not just good, but very, very good. Moreover it is "a land flowing with milk and honey." They are correct. This motto needs to accompany us even in the midst of difficulties and challenges. "The Land of Israel is very, very good."
- "The entire community raised their voices and shouted, and the people wept on that night." Be careful not to submit to societal pressure. Most of the nation believed in the ten spies' pessimistic report and not in the optimistic report of the other two. Despair was infectious and soon everyone wept, complained, and raged. It can be extremely difficult to maintain independent thought and belief, whether in a barren desert or in a land of prosperity.
- "Your children will wander in the desert for forty years." It may take time to learn our lesson and to rectify mistakes. The punishment for the sin of the spies was wandering in the desert for forty years. Among the older generation, only Yehoshua and Kalev were permitted to enter the Promised Land. Those of the younger generation, however, after years of preparation, were privileged to enter it. The long desert journey teaches us that nothing of value happens instantly, but rather a gradual process is involved.
- "This shall be tzitzit for you, and when you see it, you will remember." The parasha ends with several positive mitzvot including that of separating challah (a measure of dough before baking bread) and wearing tzitzit. Our commentators explain that these are perpetual reminders since they have to do with everyday bread that is baked and everyday clothes that are worn. In order not to repeat the sin of the spies, in order not to forget our magnificent shared story, speeches are not enough, but tangible regular reminders are necessary. At the end of a course of study or any other project, each of us would be wise to take away a reminder of the journey just completed, something of value that can become part of our daily routine.
Wishing much success to everyone.
