ately the discussions and focus of the Jewish world, both on the world stage and in our local communities, have been about Jewish survival and continuity. What can we do about it? Have we done enough?

Miriam, a Prophetess and sister of Moshe (Moses) comes to mind. The Parsha this week describes her passing and the deep loss that was felt by the Jewish people.

I started to reflect upon her life and her values. She represented true dedication towards the continuity and survival of the Jewish people. When the Jewish people’s existence was threatened in Egypt, Miriam was the one who ensured that there would be a new generation of Jews to carry on G-d’s mission. She both encouraged the Jewish people to continue having children and saved their newborns from Pharaoh’s decree.

She assisted and encouraged mothers to have children. While Pharoh demanded that the baby boys be thrown in the Nile, Miriam with her Mother, defied this command, and saved as many babies as they could. She did this knowing that she was risking her life.

The Talmud teaches us that the Jewish people’s source of water in the desert was a miraculous well that had followed them in the desert and it existed only in Miriam’s merit.

The refreshing water in the desert represents Miriam. While food nourishes the body, it is the water that enables the body to absorb the nutrients in the food. Thus, food and water represent two types of leadership roles in inspiring the nation.

The “food” represents the soul of the Torah itself. While “water” is the Torah’s ability to influence all facets of our personalities, all types of people, and all aspects of life. When she passed, both the indispensable physical well, and the spiritual well were gone.

It is as this point we find a vital message about Jewish survival. Although Moshe was not like Miraim and didn’t have the same traits and nature, but he took upon himself to fill the void that was left after her passing. To facilitate more Jewish survival and growth.

This teaches us a lesson to contribute in any way we can to Jewish continuity. Even if we don’t feel adequate or super qualified. All of us can be part of this vital mission. Like how it was throughout history, all types of Jews just picked up the role to carry on the baton to the next generation.

Shabbat Shalom