This week we read Parsha's Zachor the episode in which the Amalekites attacked the Jewish Nation as we left Egypt and made our way to Mount Sinai. Through this reading we fulfill the biblical obligation to "remember what amalek did". The Torah tells us that Amalek "happened upon" us when we were traveling. The commentators explain two things in regards to Amalek. One is that they are associated with "happenings" and two, as the parsha continues, they prevent the full revelation of Hashem's "throne" and Name.

I think both of these are connected. Amalek wants us to believe things just happen, there is no order and there is no Divine direction. This attitude prevents the revelation of Hashem's full Kingship.

In Israel many people have commented on the outbreak of corona. They have mentioned that the word corona means "crown" and we can all see that this virus has caused tremendous damage and brought the biggest most powerful nations to their knees. It has brought the world to a virtual standstill. They say this shows the absolute rule of G-d, represented by his "crown".

 

One thing is for sure that we should not adopt the attitude of amalek and approach this as just a freak occurrence, something that just happens, an act of pure nature. However it was brought about doesn't matter, we need to introspect and realize the power of G-d and His hand. Whether we can understand why it is happening or not is a different question, but we must first realize that it is unequivocally and act of G-d not just a happening.

We must pray for the sick and that it doesn't spread further.

Shabbat Shalom, Stay Well and Freilichin Purim,

Heath