While at the river with her ladies-in-waiting, the Egyptian princess discovers a Jewish infant. Aware of her father’s decree, she nonetheless rescues–and names–Moses.

Raised in the Pharaoh’s palace, with a front row view of the propaganda and persecution of the Jewish people, Batya offers a lesson for generations. One can choose differently. And Batya does. Despite background, upbringing, education, peer group, and societal expectation, Batya chooses to save an innocent life.

Georg Ferdinand Duckwitz, the trade attache at the German Embassy in Copenhagen was a card carrying member of the Nazi party. He also had a pivotal role in warning the Danish resistance of the planned roundup of Danish Jewry as well as in negotiating for Swedish asylum for the community.

That rescue of 7,000 men, women, and children–and Dukwitz’s willingness to risk his position, privilege, and life has its roots in Batya’s actions.

Words to consider. Ideas to ponder. Politics & the parsha.

By Howie Beigelman