Timeless Torah

Politics! One would imagine, with the elections being over, that we would not have to hear this word for another four years. Unfortunately, that is not proving to be true. From Talk Shows to political pundits, it seems as if there is nothing else to talk about. I guess I should not be surprised. Politics will always be around, as they were in the days of the Bible. Surely you jest! You don’t mean that in the days of despots, kings and tyrants there were elections, campaigns and votes? Well, yes and no. Politics already existed way back then. And politicians did, on some level, have to keep their constituents happy or there might be a revolt. If you don’t trust me, go back to your history lessons and see how many rulers were overthrown. Even beheaded! Thus, even the Pharaohs had to play the game, and most certainly their Viceroy’s did as well. In fact, you can read all about it this week’s portion of Vayigash. There it says, “Joseph sustained his father’s entire household with bread……Joseph led them (the Egyptians) with bread.” You might have noticed that in reference to his family the Torah states that Joseph “sustained them,” whereas in regards to the Egyptians, the expression used is “he led them with bread.” Anyone familiar with politics must surely appreciate the term “led with bread.” Roughly translated, it means “voting for your pocketbook.” It’s true that during an election campaign various issues are debated. Ethical and ideological platforms are touted, and should be given serious consideration by an electorate that must appraise the ramifications of his vote. Nevertheless, it is a safe assumption that if the economy is flourishing the incumbent stands a greater chance of being voted in. What happens if, on the other hand, there is a recession? Just ask George Bush - he can fill you in. On the other hand, look at the present economy rebounding, at least according to the statisticians, and you know why the Democratic presidential contenders are gnashing their teeth. Anyways, back to the Parsha… While others may be willing to compromise their ethical values for financial promises, Jews have never allowed themselves to be governed in this fashion. (At least, they should not)! It’s true that Joseph provided support for Jacob’s entire clan, but this did not automatically transfer any legitimate claim of leadership upon Joseph. Regarding the rest of the populace, however, the Torah says that Joseph “led them with bread” because they willingly surrendered to whoever controlled the economy. You’ve probably heard the saying, “Man does not live by bread alone,” and not realized that it comes from our Bible. The rest of the verse reads, “But man lives by everything that proceeds from the mouth of G-d.” So, though the rest of the world, from the Egyptians to the Americans, have been playing politics from time immemorial, the people of Israel (in whichever country they may be) should never forget they must vote their moral conscience as well.