Having recently completed a trip abroad, it left me thinking about the Torah’s approach to traveling. Is it a good thing to see other countries, customs and locales? Is it simply a guilty indulgence? What is the correct perspective on traveling?
The journey of Avraham Avinu (Abraham, our patriarch) begins with a divine command: “Lech lecha meartzecha… el ha’aretz asher areka—Go forth from your land… to the land that I will show you,” (Bereishit 12:1). This directive from God initiates a pivotal moment in Jewish history, emphasizing trust in God and the willingness to leave behind the familiar for the unknown. Rashi comments on “Lech lecha” as meaning “for your own benefit and for your own good,” suggesting that Avraham’s journey was not merely a physical relocation, but was an opportunity for spiritual elevation and personal growth.
The wandering of the Israelites in the desert for 40 years is another significant example of travel in the Torah. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 110b) teaches that these wanderings were not aimless, but served to prepare the Israelites for entry into the promised land. This period was essential for the development of their faith and identity as a nation. Each step in the desert was a step in refining their character and solidifying their trust in God.
In Jewish tradition, the mitzvah of aliyah l’regel—pilgrimage to Jerusalem for the three major festivals (Pesach, Shavuot and Sukkot), illustrates the sanctity of travel. These pilgrimages were not mere journeys, but profound acts of worship and community. The Talmud (Chagigah 7a) discusses the joy and spiritual elevation associated with these pilgrimages, highlighting how travel can deepen one’s connection to God and the Jewish people.
The Talmud (Berachot 29b) provides a specific prayer for travelers, the tefillat haderech. This prayer acknowledges the dangers inherent in travel and invokes divine protection: “May it be Your will, Lord—our God and God of our ancestors—that You lead us toward peace, emplace our footsteps toward peace, guide us toward peace, and make us reach our desired destination for life, gladness and peace.” This prayer reflects the Jewish understanding that while travel can be perilous, invoking God’s protection transforms the journey into a sacred endeavor and brings God along into the travel experience.
The story is told about Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch, a leading figure in modern Orthodox Judaism. Rabbi Hirsch lived during the 19th century and served as the spiritual leader of the Jewish community in Frankfurt am Main. He had an intriguing incident that highlighted his appreciation for nature and the need for personal rejuvenation.
One summer, Rabbi Hirsch decided to take a short break from his demanding schedule. Without informing his congregation or family of his plans, he disappeared for a few days. This sudden absence caused a great deal of concern among his followers and family members, as they had no idea where he had gone or why he had left without notifying anyone.
After a few days, Rabbi Hirsch returned—much to the relief of his community. When asked about his mysterious disappearance, he explained that he had traveled to the Alps to witness the breathtaking beauty of the mountains. He felt a profound need to experience the grandeur of God’s creation and to find spiritual renewal, in the midst of nature.
Rabbi Hirsch’s trip to the Alps was not merely a vacation; it was an act of spiritual contemplation. He believed that appreciating the wonders of the natural world was a way to connect with the Creator. The majestic mountains, the clear blue skies and the serene landscapes all served as reminders of God’s greatness and the intricate beauty of His creation.
This story of Rabbi Hirsch visiting the Alps carries a powerful message about the balance between work and rest, duty and personal well-being. It teaches us that even the most dedicated and hardworking individuals need time to recharge and find inspiration in the world around them. Rabbi Hirsch’s journey to the Alps underscores the importance of stepping back from our daily routines to appreciate the beauty and wonder of nature, which can refresh our spirits and deepen our connection to God.
Visiting other countries and seeing how other cultures exist give us a fresh perspective on things we take for granted and helps us appreciate the world, inside and outside our own bubbles. When we see children begging in the streets of India, for example, we value how our children have plenty of food to eat, live in a warm home and many times, receive a fine yeshiva education. When we see individuals in the Moroccan Atlas mountains, who have no running water or decent toilets, we are thankful for the living conditions we often take for granted.
Once we see travel as a way to shape our identity and relationship with God, it no longer seems to be a fanciful indulgence. From Avraham’s journey to the Israelites’ desert wanderings to the appreciation of the Tefilat Haderech prayer, travel represents a path toward greater faith, trust in Hashem and understanding of the world around us.
In the spirit of Rabbi Hirsch, we are reminded that taking time for personal reflection and experiencing the natural world can enhance our spiritual lives. His example encourages us to seek moments of tranquility and awe, allowing us to return to our responsibilities with renewed energy and a clearer perspective on the divine presence in our lives.
Rabbi Dr. Avi Kuperberg is a forensic, clinical psychologist and a member of the American Psychology-Law Society. He is the coordinator of Bikur Cholim/Chesed at Congregation Torah Ohr in Boca Raton, Florida. He can be reached at [email protected].
