What it’s about
The notion of self-sacrifice sets the stage for the stories recounted in the Book of Exodus and the period of the Israelites’ departure from Egypt. Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz highlights the significant acts of defiance and bravery that laid the groundwork for redemption, including the defiance of Pharaoh’s orders by the Hebrew midwives and the leap of faith taken by Nachshon ben Aminadav at the Red Sea.
Why it matters
The narrative demonstrates how acts of self-sacrifice can propel a society towards liberation, not just physically, but mentally and spiritually, as well. The educator and leader components—illustrated through Yocheved, Miriam and Batya, and later Moses himself—emphasize how self-sacrifice serves not only as an immediate act of bravery but also as an instruction for future generations, teaching empathy, devotion to values, and commitment to faith.
Key lessons on self-sacrifice
Breaking Mental Bondage
The slavery in Egypt extended beyond the physical, imposing mental constraints on the Israelites. Acts of self-sacrifice embodied by key figures, who risked their well-being for others, revealed the potential for emancipation embedded within the community, despite the overwhelming sense of despair and fatigue they experienced.
Sacrifice Beyond the Battlefield
Rabinowitz argues that self-sacrifice should not be limited to life-threatening situations. Ordinary life provides numerous opportunities for individuals to put aside personal desires, such as helping others despite a busy schedule, or standing by one’s values even when it’s inconvenient. These everyday choices reflect a commitment to principles that extend beyond one’s self-interest.
Educational Significance
Rabinowitz points out how self-sacrifice in the stories of Exodus serves as an educational model for subsequent generations. The influences on Moses from his mother Yocheved, his sister Miriam, and Pharaoh’s daughter Batya showcase how acts of self-sacrifice teach values such as altruism, adherence to personal beliefs, and dedication to one’s faith.
The Takeaway
The article posits that transcending self-centeredness and hedonism through self-sacrifice is not only fundamental to personal and community redemption but also critical to inculcating enduring virtues in young individuals, thereby shaping the character of future generations.
Writer’s Credibility
Rabbi Shmuel Rabinowitz, the article’s author, brings not just scholarly insight but also a position of authority to the discussion as a rabbi of the Western Wall and Holy Sites.
This story was first published on jpost.com.