Sometimes, lost in the retelling of the Exodus, is the way that nature plays a role in securing Israelite freedom. Part of the story’s power is that known natural phenomena are constrained by God to act to subdue the Egyptians. What is even more astounding is that Pharaoh’s magicians are actually able to reverse or replicate the first several plagues. It is only as the battle between God and Pharaoh heats up that the Israelite God shows a superior ability to command all of nature.
As we enter the month of Shevat—where the environmental holiday of Tu B’Shevat is situated (more on that tomorrow)—it is fitting to recognize that long-burning desire to bend nature to human will and the needs reflected in the Exodus story. We shouldn’t underestimate our own power in this generation. So much of human existence is reflective of our power to resist the forces of nature that threaten us and harness those that serve us well. It’s an amazing human accomplishment.
At the same time, we are constantly reminded and awed by nature’s capacity to overcome us. Drought, floods, heat waves, tornadoes, and blizzards humble us in the face of nature’s fury. Ocean vistas, mountain summits, and glorious forests awaken us to her splendor.
Even with our vast powers to protect ourselves, our desire is no less than our ancestors, which is to manage the natural world. At the same time, our awareness of its complexity and its current tenuous condition is far beyond theirs.
Experiencing the month of Shevat in its fullness invites us to step back and contemplate our complex relationship with this precious world that sustains humanity. The climate crises we face in our own generation compels us to take steps to protect its life-sustaining balance for all generations.
— Rabbi Ron Stern