Parashat Beresheet: In the Beginning
Beresheet (Genesis) 1:1-6:8
Haftarah: Isaiah 42:5-43:10

As we embark on a new cycle of Torah readings, we find ourselves revisiting the first chapters of Beresheet, also known as “Genesis”. This portion, covering Genesis 1:1-6:8, narrates the very beginning of creation, where God brings the world into existence from chaos. Accompanying this Torah portion is the Haftarah from Isaiah 42:5-43:10, which echoes the themes of creation and God’s sovereignty.

This year, I write this commentary from a deeply personal place. Israel has been at war for over a year, and our lives have changed in profound ways since October 7th, 2023. What was once a future filled with plans has become a life lived day by day, with the constant reminder that everything can change in an instant. We have experienced the loss of friends, family, and a reality that we once knew. This war that took my nephewand other friends from me has become deeply personal. Indeed, there is not one person in this country left untouched by the weight of immense grief and uncertainty.

In such moments, it’s natural to ask: Where is God? In the face of suffering and loss, where is His presence? Yet, as I reflect on the events of the past year and on the Torah and Haftarah portions, my faith in God has only grown stronger. It is not the kind of faith that wears a mask of forced happiness, but rather a faith that acknowledges pain while holding on to hope. God's Word teaches us that in our weakness, He is strong, and that is where I find my strength.

The opening verses of Beresheet introduce us to a God who brings order to the chaos. The world begins as a "formless and desolate emptiness," but with a few divine words, light pierces the darkness, and life takes shape. God speaks, and creation unfolds—each day meticulously bringing forth a new aspect of the world: light, sky, land, vegetation, animals, and finally, human beings. It’s a story of transformation, from void to vitality.

This narrative is especially poignant for us in Israel today. In a time of war and disorder, we long for the kind of peace and stability that God brought to creation. It is a reminder that despite the chaos we face, God is still in control. He created the world, and He is the one who sustains it.

The highlight of the creation account is the formation of humanity. We are told that God created man and woman in His image, giving them the responsibility to rule over creation. This act of creation is a profound statement about our identity and purpose. We are made in God’s likeness, which means we are called to reflect His character in the world. Even in times of hardship, we are reminded that our lives have meaning and that we are created for a purpose.

After six days of creation, God rests on the seventh day. This day, known as Shabbat, is sanctified as a time of rest. For us, Shabbat is more than just a day off; it is a time to pause and remember that God is in control. It is a time to rest in His presence, to let go of the burdens we carry, and to trust that He is with us in the midst of our struggles. Especially in a time of war, Shabbat reminds us to stop and acknowledge that we are not alone, that God sees our pain, and that He cares for us.

The Haftarah from Isaiah 42:5-43:10 beautifully complements the Torah portion. Here, God speaks to Israel, reminding them of His faithfulness. He declares:

Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine!
Isaiah 43:1

These words are a powerful reminder that even in the midst of suffering, God has not abandoned His people. He promises to be with us through the waters and the fires, and that we will not be overwhelmed.

The passage also highlights God’s unique relationship with Israel. He created, formed, and redeemed us. We are precious in His sight, and He promises to gather us from all corners of the earth. This message of hope is particularly relevant today. Even in the darkest of times, God is still at work, bringing His people together, protecting them, and fulfilling His promises.

As we begin this new cycle of Torah readings, we are reminded of God’s power to bring order from chaos, His creation of humanity in His image, and His invitation to rest in His presence. The Haftarah echoes this message of hope, reminding us that God is with us, even in the midst of suffering.

For me, these readings offer strength and encouragement. Though we are living in a time of war and uncertainty, I hold on to the truth that God is in control. He is with us, and He will carry us through.

Shabbat Shalom,
Moran