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This Shabbat we begin the second book of the Torah, Exodus or as it is also known in Hebrew, Shemot (Exodus 1:1-6:1).  This tells the story of the Israelites’ enslavement in Egypt, the birth of Moses, and his early life. This portion introduces the harsh conditions the Israelites face under Pharaoh’s oppressive rule, setting the stage for their eventual redemption. The theme of liberation is central to this portion, as we witness the growing resistance of the Israelites to their oppression and the birth of a leader who will ultimately lead them to freedom. It is a powerful narrative about the struggle for justice, liberation, and the resilience of a people in the face of adversity.

This Shabbat, along with our friends at New Light Baptist Community Church, we also remember the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., whose life and work continue to inspire movements for civil rights and social justice around the world. Dr. King, like Moses, stood up against systemic injustice and fought for the liberation and equality of those who were oppressed. His commitment to nonviolent resistance and his belief in the power of love and justice echo the moral principles we find throughout our Torah and in their New Testament.

In Shemot, we see the Israelites subjected to severe oppression, much like the African American community faced under segregation and systemic racism in the United States during Dr. King’s time. The parallels between the two stories—Moses leading the Israelites to freedom and Dr. King leading the fight for civil rights—remind us of the ongoing struggle for justice and the importance of standing up against injustice, no matter how entrenched it may seem. This struggle continues even today and we must work together to end this stain on humanity.

Dr. King’s vision of a “beloved community” aligns with the Torah’s call for justice, righteousness, and freedom. Just as Moses’ actions are divinely guided, Dr. King’s leadership was rooted in his deep faith and his understanding of justice as a moral imperative. In his famous “I Have a Dream” speech, Dr. King articulated a vision for a future where individuals are judged not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. This vision mirrors the ideals expressed in the Torah, where every person is seen as created in the image of God and deserving of dignity and respect.

As we read our portion, we are reminded that the fight for freedom and justice is ongoing. Just as the Israelites’ journey out of Egypt was a long and difficult one, the struggle for equality and human rights requires perseverance and a commitment to moral principles. Dr. King’s life teaches us that change is possible when people come together to stand up against injustice and work toward a more just and compassionate society.

This Shabbat, as we read about Moses’ birth and the beginning of the Israelites’ journey to freedom, we are reminded of the power of hope, courage, and faith in the face of oppression. Just as the Israelites’ redemption was ultimately achieved, Dr. King’s legacy reminds us that liberation is possible, but it requires the collective effort of all who are committed to justice and equality. Let us honor Dr. King’s memory by continuing the work of justice and standing in solidarity with those who face oppression today, just as we stood along side of the Israelites in their journey to freedom.

SHABBAT SHALOM