In Tractate Brachot (12b), the Talmud reveals an intriguing consideration by the rabbis: they once contemplated adding a fourth section to the Shema, incorporating the entire parsha of Balak. This idea was eventually dismissed due to the parsha’s length, which would have imposed an undue burden on the daily recitation. Nonetheless, the very fact that Parshas Balak was considered for inclusion in such a central part of our prayers highlights its profound significance.
What makes Parshas Balak so special that it was even considered for inclusion in the Shema prayers. After all, we know that the Shema prayers are our way of affirming our dedication and fidelity to God. How does the story of Balak relate to this theme?
The Shema is our quintessential declaration of faith, encapsulating our unwavering commitment and fidelity to Hashem. It is recited twice daily, reminding us of our duty to love and serve Hashem with all our heart, soul, and might. The inclusion of Parshas Balak in the Shema was contemplated precisely because it echoes this theme of divine oversight and protection.
Parshas Balak is a most unusual parsha. There are no Jews who play a central role in the story. Instead, we read about the prophet Bilaam and King Balak making a clandestine deal to curse the Jews and bring destruction to the Jewish people. In effect, the Jews were going about their daily business and were blissfully unaware of the impending danger. They had no idea that these evildoers were plotting against them behind the scenes. It was only through divine intervention that the Bilaam and Balak’s plot was thwarted.
This unseen battle, waged by divine intervention, underscores a critical lesson about Hashem’s constant vigilance and protection over His people. What Bilaam meant as a curse turned into a blessing instead. He opened his mouth intending to say harmful words against the Jews. Instead, the words that came out would only serve to benefit them. All the while, no one was the wiser.
This, then, might be the lesson of Parshas Balak. We are to learn and remember that Hashem is orchestrating the events that take place behind the scenes. We may not be aware of the various evil plots to our people that have been thwarted or the ways that we have personally benefited from a “lucky break” in our own lives. Yet, we need to be mindful that Hashem is running the world and everything is turning out the way it was meant to be.
That is why the rabbis originally considered adding Parshas Balak to the recitation of the Shema. The Shema prayer is where we declare our steadfast faith in Hashem and acknowledge his protection. We are grateful for all the events that we are aware of. However, when we really think about it, we need to be mindful that there are plenty of events taking place behind the scenes, whether good or bad, that are also being overseen and watched by Hashem.
A pertinent Talmudic story is the tale of Rabbi Akiva, who famously declared, “Everything that God does is for the best” (Berachot 60b). Once, Rabbi Akiva was traveling and sought lodging in a village but was refused. He ended up spending the night in the forest, where his donkey, rooster, and lamp were all lost. Despite these misfortunes, Rabbi Akiva maintained his faith. The next morning, he discovered that a band of robbers had attacked the village. Had he been there, he would have been harmed. This story exemplifies the lesson that events, even those that seem unfortunate, are orchestrated by Hashem for our ultimate benefit.
In contemporary times, this lesson is especially pertinent. We live in a world filled with uncertainties and challenges, both on personal and communal levels. Whether it’s facing health crises, economic instability, or geopolitical threats, the story of Parshas Balak reassures us that Hashem is always in control. Our task is to maintain our faith and trust in His divine plan, even when we cannot see it clearly.
We need to cultivate an awareness of Hashem’s hidden hand in our daily lives. This mindfulness can transform our outlook, helping us to navigate challenges with a sense of calm and confidence. By recognizing that every event, whether perceived as good or bad, is part of Hashem’s plan, we can strengthen our faith and resilience.
May we be blessed so that we, as individuals and as a people, continue to be protected from our enemies. May their evil intentions and curses be turned so that they no longer harm us but, instead, bless us just like Bilaam did.
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].
