Lee Diamond – And It Was THIS
One of the more difficult texts of the Hagada is the statement: והיא שעמדה . It states : “And it was “THIS” that gave our ancestors and us strength in every generation (the strength to survive) and that though they tried to destroy us , THE HOLY ONE saves us from their hand.”
What is the “THIS” in this difficult statement ?
“THIS” is present as well as past tense.
“THIS” is the powerful experience of being a Jew!
“THIS” is not giving in to persecution
“THIS” is clinging to our own message.
“THIS” is developing the skill to survive creatively despite all the efforts of our detractors.
“THIS” is developing thick skin.
“THIS” is a strong, deeply implanted, sense of Jewish Identity.
“THIS” is not becoming them but learning from and teaching them.
“THIS” is standing firmly against all odds.
“THIS” is the “Pintele YID” the “NEFESH YEHUDI” ( the tiny flame) that burns within us and is hotter and brighter than any fire
And any attempt to destroy us is doomed to fail
Because “THIS” is the KADOSH BARCHU” within us that is OUR very survival.
נר ה נשמת האדם
The flame of God is the soul of man
To the BDSers, Anti Semites and the Jewish doubters
Remember :
We survived Pharaoh
And much much more!
Long after You’re gone
We promise you
We Will STILL
Be here
