In this week’s Torah portion, Sh’lach, we learn the valuable lesson of embracing a positive perspective amidst challenges. Hashem commands Moshe to send spies to explore the promised Land of Israel, driven by the heartfelt desire of the Jewish people. As the spies embark on their mission, they encounter a breathtaking land teeming with the potential for abundant growth and prosperity.
Yet, when the spies return to deliver their reports, an unfortunate cloud of negativity overshadows their findings. Only two among them choose to seize the opportunity to inspire and uplift, sharing a glowing account of the land flowing with milk and honey. Astonishingly, despite witnessing the same incredible sights, the remaining ten spies succumb to fear, casting a shadow of doubt upon the hearts of the Jewish people. Their narrative highlights the presence of giants and other nations, instilling trepidation and jeopardizing the dream of entering the promised land.
However, let us not dwell on the doubts and fears that momentarily consumed the people. Instead, let us draw strength from the profound lesson embedded in this parshah. “Sh’lach l’cha,” the words that initiate this portion, resound with a powerful message: We have the power to embark on personal journeys of discovery. We can venture out, observe, and interpret situations for ourselves.
Every circumstance in life presents us with a choice: to embrace a positive mindset or succumb to negativity. We have the ability to view challenges as opportunities for growth, to see setbacks as steppingstones toward success. Our perception molds our reality, and it is within our control to shape it positively.
In the wilderness, Hashem decreed that the fearful generation would not enter the land of promise. But let their story serve as a reminder, not of defeat, but of the transformative power that lies within us. Let us emulate the courage and unwavering trust displayed by the two spies who chose to see the land through a lens of hope and possibility.
Today, as we navigate the complexities of our own lives, let us remember that we possess the ability to transcend fear, to trust in Hashem’s guidance, and to cultivate a spirit of resilience and optimism. Embrace the notion that any situation can be viewed positively; let us stand united in choosing faith over doubt, courage over fear, and trust over uncertainty. With Hashem’s blessings, we can transform any challenge into an opportunity for growth and, ultimately, manifest our own promised land of joy, abundance, and fulfillment.
List of People Who Need a r’fuah sh’leimah (a complete recovery)
Please recite Psalms 20, 30, 88, 121, and 130.
Amnon ben Rivkah
Yosef Chaim ben Rivkah Rachel
Rafael Yaakov ben Ayelet
Daniel Aharon ben Davida
Yaakov Yisrael Pinchas ben Tovah
Eliezer Yosef ben Avivah Chanah
Yitzchak ben Mazal Tov
Refael Chayim Meir ben Sima Chasha
Shmuel Moshe ben Alta Sayta
Tinok ben Sharona
Esther Rivkah Chanah bas Tamar
Esther Hadassah bas Devorah
Mitali Naomi bas Gilah Farcha
Jaleh Sarah bas Victoria Devorah
Adinah bas Chanah
To add names of individuals who need a r’fuah sh’leimah to next week’s T’hilim column, please email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and complete the Google form.
