Original Post Date: April 23 2015
An old medical school adage goes as follows: “watch one, do one, teach one.” Perhaps this adage is accurate. (Ask a doctor you know). Imagine being a physician and being expected to overcome squeamishness. Not everyone has the intellectual ability or the personal fortitude to be a physician. Most of us laypeople cannot handle wounds, bodily fluids, injuries, serious ailments or worse.
We rely on others who have a more formidable constitution and specialized training. They help us to find our way during rough episodes in our lives. In this week’s Torah reading (Tazria-Metzora) we encounter extremely detailed protocols to be followed if an Israelite is ill.
This long portion is actually a double portion. 85 sentences (Leviticus chapters 13–15) cover many topics including skin rashes, discolorations and bodily discharges. Likely, most people will read this passage and retort “it does not feel like God's word at all!” Initially, it may not appear as lofty as Revelation on Mount Sinai or as spiritually compelling as “Am I my brother's keeper?”
Pause for a moment. If we truly empathize with someone who is suffering, identifying with his pain or her anguish and we comfort that person, we are making a huge mark on the world for the better.
In the ancient times, Israelite spiritual leaders (Kohanim /Priests) were called upon to guide their fellow Israelites during difficult moments in life. We, too, experience profound fear and worry. The challenge before us all is to support our loved ones as they and we navigate fearful experiences. Standing by their sides as physicians explain treatment options, share ’good news and disclose ‘bad news’ literally makes the difference between life and death. Hearing all of the specific details clearly is the first step in beginning the next stage, whatever that stage may be. Doing so is, most assuredly, a Godly experience.
May we all be blessed with health and the strength to support one another.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Steven Silberman
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