Parashas Pinchas
These are [the offerings] you shall make unto G-d on your festivals
(Numbers 29:39).
This Portion of the Torah is almost always
read during the three weeks between the 17th day of Tammuz and the 9th
of Av, a period of mourning designated to commemorate the destruction of
both Temples in Jerusalem and the expulsion from our homeland. This portion of
the Torah contains the services for all the festivals (Numbers
28:11-29:39). Therefore, says Rabbi Tzvi Elimelech, it is read during the
period of mourning, so that we should not be swept away by the various mourning
rituals practiced during this period. We are reminded that the period of grief
will pass, and we will once again rejoice.
Few people are so fortunate as to have a life
that is without episodes of sadness. Some people react to unpleasant
occurrences with depression so severe that it renders them unable to function.
This may give rise to a self-reinforcing cycle, and the inactivity resulting
from the depression may become a cause of further depression. The antidote to
this is to remember at all times that there is joy in the future.
It is told of King Solomon that he was
consulted by a person who had severe mood swings, episodes of unrealistic
elation alternating with periods of paralyzing depression. Solomon had the
royal goldsmith fashion a ring wih the inscription gam zeh yaavor;
This, too, shall pass. At times of euphoria, this would remind him of the
transitory nature of this phase, and at times of severe dejection, he would be
reminded that there is relief ahead.
Our own personal histories should be a source
of strength to us. Each of us has had times when we felt extremely discouraged
and could not see the light at the end of the tunnel. Yet we emerged from these
episodes and again experienced joy in life. We must remember these episodes
and, if difficult days come again, ask ourselves: Why should this time be any
different? Granted that we may be in severe distress at this particular moment,
but we should remember that we have had similar ordeals in the past, and
this too shall pass.
Excerpt from Living Each Week, by
Rabbi Abraham J. Twerski, M.D. |