Rabbi Howard Morrison

With this Shabbat, we will read the last of the seven Haftarot of comfort. All of them originate from the prophet Isaiah and are read after Tisha B'Av up to the season of Rosh Hashanah.

In this last message, we are reminded that Zionism did not begin with Hertzl or any of the other nineteenth century modern Zionists. Isaiah 62:1 states, "For the sake of Zion I will not be silent, for the sake of Jerusalem I will not be still, till her victory emerge resplendent, and her triumph like a flaming torch." 

Let no one confuse us of a fundamental truth. Judaism is Zionism, and Zionism is Judaism. When certain people proclaim, I love Jews and Judaism but despise Zionists and Zionism, they are trying to conceal their Jew-hatred.

The cause for a safe and secure Jewish state and homeland is as old as Judaism itself. The prophet Isaiah is one of many Biblical figures who invokes Zionism. Similarly, our Siddur proclaims Zionism throughout our liturgy.

While continued condemnations are hurled at Israel from around the world, Israel would never have needed to respond if October 7, 2023 had never occurred.

While continued condemnations are hurled at Israel from around the world, Israel would never have needed to respond if the nations of the world had pressured Hamas to drop its arms, give itself up, stop hiding behind human shields, and release the hostages.

Isaiah 62:2-4 continue where the previous verse left off: "Nations shall see your victory, and every king your majesty; and you shall be called by a new name which the Lord Himself shall bestow. You shall be a glorious crown in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the palm of your God. Nevermore shall you be called 'forsaken,' nor shall your land be called 'desolate,' but you shall be called 'I delight in her,' and your land 'espoused.'"

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Howard Morrison