Holding Space for Multiple Truths

Rabbi Yanai in a Midrash from 900CE said: “The Torah was not given in a clear cut manner, rather on every statement G-d said to Moses, He would say forty-nine reasons the matter could be pure, and forty-nine reasons why the matter could be impure.” This balanced perspective, the ability to see multiple sides of an issue, is a Jewish characteristic I greatly appreciate.

As we look at the recent situation in Israel, as a Jewish organization, JCVT is encouraged to “Stand by Israel.” Unequivocally I hope all in the world can support the Israeli people, Israel’s right to exist in safety and security, and its right to defend itself from attack. 

At the same time, we can hold other truths that show empathy for the human side to the struggles on all sides and to mourn the loss of life and the destruction of homes and livelihoods. 

I hope we can hold multiple truths--that we stand by Israel and can question certain policies or actions by the government or factions within the country; that we can stand by Israel and acknowledge that Palestinians too deserve rights and dignity and opportunity. 

The issues and history in the Middle East are tremendously complex and complicated. I so appreciate how so many in our Jewish community in Vermont try to resist the inclination to oversimplify or to affix blame and instead seek to see the legitimacy of perspectives from varied sides and work to promote a long term solution for peace, safety and dignity for all in the region.