Maimonides codifies just six things Jews should try to remember constantly. One we focus on this week, Shabbos Zachor, as we are cajoled to always remember Amalek, and the evil they did.

Often as not, we remember people for what they fought against. What we as a nation and community remember says much about our values. Remembering Amalek reminds us it is a Jewish values to protect those most vulnerable, instead of exploiting their weaknesses or taking advantage of their situation.

In the words of Washington Post columnist Richard Cohen, while “It’s always nice to have friends. Sometimes, though, it’s more honorable to have enemies.”

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

By Howie Beigelman