Vayelech
To 120 Years!
by Rabbi Lewis Eron
One hundred and twenty years is a
long time to live. Only one or two people may have achieved such an age in
modern times and some scientists believe that our physical bodies are unable to
hold up much longer than that. What, then, is the source of the Jewish
tradition of wishing a person 120 years of health and happiness?
One of the sources for this wish
comes from this week's Torah portion, Vayelech.
In it, Moshe announces to the Israelites that he has lived one hundred and
twenty years and has come to the end of his life. As he approaches his death,
he shares with them some of his insights into their future and warns them of
the temptations that await them in the Land of Canaan. He reiterates his
support of his chosen successor, Yehoshua, and
exhorts him and the Israelites to be brave and strong as they continue their
adventures in their new home.
By praying that our elderly have the
opportunity to reach Moshe's life span, we are reminding them that we cherish
them as we cherish Moshe. Even in old age, they, like Moshe, remain our
teachers, our leaders and our fountains of inspiration.
Think about the respect our
ancestors showed Moses in his final days. Be humbled by the wisdom he shared
with them as his life was coming to an end. Be inspired by the courage with
which he faced his death.
This New Year,
please let your elders know how much you cherish them.
Return to Reb
Laura's "Taste of Torah" list.
Return to
"Teachings from Our Rabbis and Friends" list.
|
[ Home ] |
[ Asiyah
] |
[ Yetzirah ] |
[ Briyah ] |
[ Atzilut ] |
[ Calendar ] |
|
|
( Doing ) |
( Feeling ) |
( Knowing ) |
( Being ) |
|