The verse from Leviticus 27:34, found at the end of Chapter 7 in the book of Leviticus in the Old Testament, serves as a reminder of the commandments that the Lord gave to Moses for the people of Israel on Mount Sinai. Leviticus, meaning “of the Levites,” is named after one of the tribes of Israel, as stated by the website Bible Study Tools. This chapter specifically focuses on vows and offerings given to God. Lizzy Savetsky, a Jewish activist and influencer based in New York City, finds solace in this chapter as it highlights that God is ultimately in control of all things and that everything happens for a reason.
Savetsky reflects on the harsh curses outlined in the Torah, specifically in Leviticus, emphasizing the consequences of straying from God’s path and failing to trust in Him. In light of recent events, particularly the terror attacks against Israel, she has experienced a myriad of emotions over the past nine months. Through these trials, she has learned valuable lessons about discerning what is within her control and what is ultimately left to God’s providence.
The concept of control, as illustrated by Savetsky, is akin to a circle where one’s actions and decisions lie within, while trust in God encompasses everything beyond that circle. She grapples with the frustration, grief, and anger that have consumed her since the attacks by Hamas on Israel, realizing that much of what troubles her resides outside of her sphere of influence. In recognizing this distinction, she acknowledges the importance of entrusting matters beyond her control to God.
Despite the tumultuous events following the attacks, Savetsky finds herself overwhelmed by the external factors that she cannot change or direct. She expresses dismay at the misinformation and criticism directed at Israel by individuals lacking comprehensive knowledge of the region and its complexities. The abduction of an American citizen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, during the Nova Festival remains a poignant reminder of the ongoing tensions and conflicts in the region.
The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, along with student protests and global responses to the situation, only exacerbate Savetsky’s sense of powerlessness in affecting significant change. She grapples with the disheartening silence, falsehoods, and negative portrayals of Israel, recognizing that these factors are outside her realm of control. Despite these challenges, she asserts her commitment to trusting in God and believing that these trials will lead to a greater purpose.
In acknowledging the limitations of her control and the overwhelming factors beyond her reach, Savetsky confronts her own struggle with faith and trust in God. She acknowledges that her feelings of frustration, anger, and grief stem from a lack of trust in God’s plan and ultimate purpose. Despite the illogical and senseless acts of hate and silence in the world, she resolves to relinquish her desire for control and surrender to God’s guidance and providence.
As she navigates the complexities of her emotions and the external turmoil surrounding her, Savetsky emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and relinquishing control over circumstances beyond her influence. By embracing faith and surrendering to the unknown, she finds solace in the belief that these challenges and trials will ultimately lead to a greater, unseen purpose. In a world filled with uncertainty and chaos, she finds peace in letting go and placing her trust in a higher power.
