A week ago Sunday, I had a proud fatherly moment as I watched my eldest child vote for the first time. She and I braved the long lines at the Amherst Senior Center to cast her ballot. And, while Ashirah and I have had many reasons to kvell about our daughter’s accomplishments, this particular day will go near the top of the list. Not only did she fulfill one of her central duties as an American citizen, she truly lived out her Jewish values as well. We are a people who hold positively contributing to the larger society as a core mitzvah, commandment. While we may pray for a redemption in a future time, Jews are responsible for the here and now, taking the necessary actions toward Tikkun Olam, the repair of the world.
In this week’s Torah portion, Chayei Sarah, we are introduced to Rebecca. The daughter of Bethuel is a smart, fierce and kind human being who not only stands out in her time but would stand out in our time as well. When Abraham’s elder servant Eliezer approaches after a long journey, parched and exhausted, she not only provides water to him, but to all his camels as well. This is exactly the sign from God Eliezer was looking for, who knows without a doubt that Rebecca is the perfect choice for a wife for Isaac. After sitting down for a meal and explaining his situation, Eliezer makes a proposal to Rebecca’s father for his daughter to marry into monotheism’s founding family. Betuel sends for Rebecca asking his servants to “נִשְׁאֲלָ֖ה אֶת־פִּֽיה”
– nishala et pee’ah” to literally, inquire in her mouth,” a phrase medieval commentator Rashi writes means, “by her consent.” Being such a big decision, Rebecca herself must cast her own ballot, to which she immediately does with a resounding yes.
Historically, Jews vote at higher rates than other demographic groups. According to a study about the 2024 election, Jewish turnout was 7% higher than other parts of American society (jewishvoters.org). Israel, as a country, has one of the highest participation rates of any democracy. In the most recent election, a whopping 77% of eligible Israelis voted, the highest percentage since 1999, including tens of thousands from outside the country who came back just to cast their ballot. By comparison, 60% of Americans vote in presidential elections. Choice is important to us, just as it was for Rebecca thousands of years ago. Decisions about us should not be made without us. I am so grateful my daughter received this message loud and clear and hopefully will vote many more times in her lifetime. And, while it may at times feel insignificant who any one citizen chooses to vote for, collectively it makes all the difference.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Alex