Rabbi Warren Goldstein, the chief rabbi of South Africa, has been reaching people all over the world through videos where he stresses faith, hope, and understanding, especially as Passover begins amid turmoil in Israel. The recent strikes on Israel by Iran, including missiles and drones, have increased tensions alongside ongoing global anti-Semitism. The videos Rabbi Goldstein posts online help people understand the spiritual dimension behind world events and politics. He shared a video discussing the miraculous survival of the Jewish people during Passover, highlighting the biblical story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt.
The thwarted Iranian attack on Israel is seen by many as a modern-day miracle, with the majority of missiles and drones being intercepted by Israel’s defense systems, preventing widespread destruction. Rabbi Goldstein emphasizes that there is a larger civilizational battle at play, with Iran targeting Israel and a war of values unfolding. Despite the challenges faced by Jews, including historical persecution and recent terror attacks, Rabbi Goldstein remains steadfast in his belief in God’s protection and the continued survival of the Jewish people against all odds.
The rise of anti-Semitism globally, especially in the wake of recent terrorism in Israel, has left Jewish students on college campuses feeling confused and fearful about their religious identity and future. Rabbi Goldstein encourages Jews to not allow themselves to be defined by hatred or anti-Semitism from others and to connect with the spiritual meaning of their Jewish identity. Passover, with its symbolic ceremonial meal, offers an opportunity to reflect on the themes of freedom, dignity, hope, and optimism amidst adversity. The rituals of the Seder, from eating matzoh to bitter herbs, serve as reminders of the Israelites’ journey from slavery to freedom.
Through his videos, Rabbi Goldstein emphasizes the enduring presence of God in the history of the Jewish people and the predicted nature of their suffering and successes. The ancient Passover song Vehi Sheamda speaks to the ongoing challenges faced by Jews throughout history, with God ultimately saving them from harm. The Haggadah, a 2,500-year-old book that tells the story of the Israelites’ exodus, is read during the Passover Seder to remember their liberation. Rabbi Goldstein believes that looking at world events through a spiritual lens is crucial to understanding the deeper meaning behind the struggles faced by the Jewish people.
Despite the ongoing threats and challenges faced by Jews, Rabbi Goldstein remains hopeful and steadfast in his belief in God’s protection and the resilience of the Jewish people. The Passover holiday serves as a time to reflect on the themes of freedom, dignity, and hope, even in the face of adversity. By emphasizing the spiritual dimensions of world events and history, Rabbi Goldstein encourages people to see beyond the political and military aspects and to recognize the presence of God in the ongoing survival and success of the Jewish people. Through his videos and teachings, Rabbi Goldstein seeks to inspire faith, hope, and understanding among people of all backgrounds, especially during times of uncertainty and conflict.
