This week’s Torah portion, Tazria, speaks about the laws of ritual purity and impurity involving a woman giving birth.

This brings to our attention G-d’s numerous kindnesses, even to the unborn. This is a reminder that often, we should take a moment to stop and appreciate the miracle of life.

What’s fascinating is that even before we were born, Hashem was looking after us and providing for us.

The Midrash explains that numerous miracles occur with every child being born: the miracle of conception, the survival of a foetus against all obvious laws of nature, and the great and incredible miracle of birth.

Each one of these stages are a miracle of its own. Each step through the process of birth is a divine gift.

The growth of the foetus in the mother’s womb should inspire us with gratitude to the Creator for having miraculously provided for us, even before we have entered the world.

Indeed, there are many miracles that we are to be grateful for. 

As I plan to travel to Israel next week, G-d willing, joining the Mission to Israel, with the Rabbinical Council of NSW, I’m reminded of the Miracle of Israel, its continued survival, success and endurance.

It’s deeply inspiring to think about G-d’s hand guiding and protecting the Jewish people throughout Israel’s history.

I look forward to spending some very special moments and being grateful for the blessings of G-d that allow the miracle (Israel) to exist!

Shabbat Shalom!