Pri Etz Chaim

Ari Clark, Rabbinic Intern Parshat TazriaMetzoraYom Haatzmaut A Change in the Discourse
Politics and bickering. That seems to be the theme of daily news in the United States, with Republicans and Democrats barely agreeing about the color of the White House. In Israel, the headlines sound almost exactly the same, with budget battles, social issues, and power struggles defining the state of Israeli politics. The result? Lots of talk, not a lot of action. We all hope to progress our countries forward, setting policies that allow citizens to live in peace and prosperity with as many civil and economic liberties as possible. Yet those goals seem more elusive than ever, with the political fighting impeding progress at every time. Is there any solution? What can change the trend in our political discourse? A friend of mine shared an inspiring idea that could serve as the key to creating a more harmonious environment, both in America and Israel alike. In this weeks second parsha, Parshat Metzora, the verse discusses what happens when a person sees something on his house that looks like leprosy (14:35): : Then he that owns the house shall come and tell the priest, saying: There seems to me to be as it were a plague in the house. Rashi adds an important comment to this verse: : , No matter how knowledgeable, visionary, or experienced a person is in the area of leprosy, he doesnt arrogantly state to the Kohen I know theres a mark on my house, I just need you to confirm it. He humbly approaches the Kohen, ready to listen to the Kohens opinion as well. His knowledge is not taken for granted, his opinion not forsaken; but he does not flaunt it as ironclad and all-knowing, but rather as a possibility and an idea. In the United States, diversity is lauded as a positive. When citizens from all walks of life shed their different religions and races in favor of a common goal, we celebrate the unity and liberty that this country affords us. Yet while we welcome diversity of race, we shun diversity of opinion. From politicians to journalists to everyday citizens, we have turned debates into wars and opinions into weapons. We simply cannot fathom that other people could adopt any other opinion outside our own. In order to break the gridlock of our political process, perhaps if we remembered the Dignity of Difference, especially in the realm of ideas, we could embrace a more vibrant discussion of policy, reach stronger, more refined conclusions, and ultimately create a country where everyones opinion helps paint the picture of the greater American perspective. The mandate to respect others opinions and perspectives takes on an even more urgent tone in the State of Israel. As we celebrate the 65th birthday of our beloved State, there is no doubt that the past 65 years are nothing short of a miracle. After numerous wars, tremendous odds, and countless unexplainable blessings, the State of Israel has transformed from a small land of 1 million people to a model nation of 7.7 million people, leading the way in technology, human rights, and innovation. But despite the States many accomplishments, the State has many flaws (please turn to the back)

Pri Etz Chaim

Ari Clark, Rabbinic Intern
and issues that need to be solved. With so many types of Jews comprising the population, Israelis need to learn to respect each others way of life and expression of Jewish identity. An individual may feel that his opinion is correct beyond a shadow of a doubt; he may, in fact, be 100% correct in his assessment. But with a little humility, a touch of openness, and an ability to listen to the other side of the coin, perhaps that individual can impact the publics minds and hearts significantly more than simply jamming his opinion down everyone elses throats. If more opinions can be respected, more ideas can be shared, and more unity can be created in a Land meant to unify the many children of Israel. Shabbat Shalom, and may we all live to witness many more steps in the Process of Redemption.