Devarim - I Don't Want To Be Alone
The profound impact of "Eicha."
In Jewish tradition, the word "Eicha" holds deep significance, connecting Tisha B'Av, Devarim, and the essence of our relationships. The Midrash highlights three instances in the Torah where "Eicha" begins a verse, each with its own unique meaning, yet all sharing a common theme.
The first "Eicha" appears in the Book of Eicha/Lamentations, where the prophet Yirmiyahu mourns the destruction of Jerusalem. The second is found in verses where Yishaya HaNavi laments the state of the holy city. The third emerges in this week's Parsha, where Moses expresses his frustration with the burden of the court system and the people's disputes.
Rabbi Dr. Bernard Maza, known for his insightful work on Parsha (and as the brother of famed comedian Jackie Mason), explains why this verse is recited with the mournful "Eicha" tune and why it holds a significant place among the "Eicha" verses according to the Midrash.
To fully understand the significance of "Eicha" in our Parsha, we must go back to its origins in Gan Eden, the Garden of Eden. It’s here that "Eicha" first takes root when Adam and Eve, after eating the forbidden fruit, hide from God. The Divine call that follows, "Ayeka? Where are you?" shares the same Hebrew spelling as "Eicha," hinting at a deeper connection between the two, as explored by Jewish mystics.
The Midrash suggests a link between the destruction of the Temple and the events in Gan Eden. While God declared each part of creation "tov" (good), one thing was deemed "lo tov" (not good):
לֹא־ט֛וֹב הֱי֥וֹת הָֽאָדָ֖ם לְבַדּ֑וֹ
“It is not good for the Human to be alone [Genesis 2:18]
This idea ties into Moses' lament in our Parsha, where he asks
אֵיכָה אֶשָּׂא לְבַדִּי טָרְחֲכֶם וּמַשַּׂאֲכֶם וְרִיבְכֶם
How can I alone bear the trouble of you, and the burden, and the bickering [Deuteronomy 1:12]
Moses' sorrow stems not just from the practical challenges he faces but also from the emotional burden of feeling isolated and unappreciated, so he uses the key word “Eicha.”
Moses' pain is deepened by the people's indifference, revealing a lack of empathy and concern for others. This underscores the importance of building a community rooted in empathy, compassion, and genuine connections. When relationships are prioritized, and people truly care for one another, a society thrives in harmony.
As we approach Tisha B'Av, the lessons from this "Eicha" moment resonate strongly. The destruction of the Beit Hamikdash is not just a historical event; it’s a powerful reminder of what happens when relationships break down, empathy fades, and individual desires overshadow the common good.
The path to geula (redemption) is within our reach. By embracing the wisdom of "Eicha" and valuing our relationships, we can prioritize the needs and well-being of those we care about—our family, friends, and community—above our own. In doing so, we can transform the lonely cry of
אֵיכָה יָשְׁבָה בָדָד
Alas!
How does [Jerusalem] sit alone? [Lamentations 1:1]
into the joyful chorus of "kol sason v'kol simcha" (voices of joy and happiness)—creating a harmonious, unified, and blissful community.
"Eicha" serves as a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of Tisha B'Av, Devarim, and the importance of genuine relationships in our lives. Let us take this lesson to heart, striving for a world where compassion, empathy, and meaningful connections flourish, leading to a brighter future and the coming of Mashiach soon.
Shabbat Shalom,
Eliezer Hirsch