The Biblical Blueprint for Society Is Neither Left Nor Right - Behar

Truths - Jewish Wisdom for Today

Welcome to another episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today." In this installment of the "Torah Portion Uncensored" series, Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves into the Torah portion of Behar, found in Leviticus chapter 25. This chapter addresses the significant themes of Shmita (the sabbatical year) and Yovel (the Jubilee year).

The land rests every seventh year, culminating every seven cycles of seven years (49 years), with the Yovel in the 50th year. During Yovel, the land rests again, and on Shmita, significant societal resets occur: Jewish slaves are freed, and loans are forgiven. This cyclical rest serves as a framework for a healthy, equitable society, emphasizing fair treatment and economic balance.

The Torah's instructions aim to prevent the formation of permanent social classes. The prohibition against lending with interest, the periodic release of slaves, and debt forgiveness are designed to prevent the concentration of wealth and power. These practices ensure that everyone has the opportunity to start afresh and that no one is perpetually trapped in poverty or servitude.

Furthermore, the Torah mandates fair business practices, discouraging exploitation and dishonesty. It calls for accurate transactions and fair treatment of workers, including enslaved people, who must be treated with dignity and respect.

The overarching message of Behar is clear: a just society is one where everyone works hard, respects each other as equals, and where the extremes of wealth and poverty are mitigated by regular resets. By following these principles, a society can achieve lasting security and cohesion.

These timeless values of fairness, hard work, and compassion are as relevant today as they were in biblical times. They remind us of the importance of creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute.

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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.