Shemos – At the Right Time

In Parshas Shemos, the Torah narrates the conversation that transpired at the burning bush. Hashem directs Moshe to convey to the Jewish Nation that Hashem has sent him to liberate the Bnei Yisrael from Mitzrayim. Moshe questions Hashem, 'What should I say if they ask me, “What is the name of Hashem who sent you?” Hashem answers, 'I Will Be Who I Will Be.' Hashem continues, 'Thus you shall say to the Children of Israel, “I Will Be” has sent me to you.' Rashi references the Gemara in Brachos, which expands on the conversation between Hashem and Moshe, stating, 'I am who I am.' The Holy One, blessed be He, instructed Moses: 'Go and tell them to Israel: I was with you during this servitude, and I will be with you in future servitude and exiles among the nations.' Moshe then said, 'Master of the world, the suffering is already enough in its time!' Hashem replied, 'Go and tell them: “I will be with you” has sent me to you.'

The dialogue between Hashem and Moshe requires further explanation. Undoubtedly, Hashem was cognizant of Moshe’s concerns; thus, what transpired during their exchange, and what insights can we learn from this dialogue? The Ohr Hachaim clarifies that Hashem was certainly mindful of the need to withhold troubling information until the appropriate time. Hashem was indicating to Moshe, as His prophet, that just as He was with them during this exile, He would also be with them in subsequent exiles. Nevertheless, the message to the people was exclusively that He is present with them in the present exile.

Gam Zu Litovah

It is quite distressing to see a dear one suffer and face a challenging period or event in their life. Frequently, the onlooker may instinctively shift into a mode of problem-solving or providing comfort. Although it might be alluring to convey to the individual facing difficulties platitudes such as 'Understand that life has its highs and lows', 'Life will not always be fair’, and other similar clichéd expressions, it is important to understand that these phrases subtly imply that further difficulties lie ahead. Indeed, struggles are an inevitable part of life, yet discussions regarding future adversities should occur during periods of tranquility. When someone is grappling with hardships, it is essential to offer them empathy. Assure them that they are not alone. Do not add to their burdens by suggesting impending difficulties; they are already working to cope with the current issues.

One of the fundamental tenants of Judaism is the belief that Hashem is good and all that He does is good. From an early age we train our children to say “gam zu litovah,” this too is for the good. A person that can live with this concept and accept everything as part of the plan of Hashem is destined to be truly content in life. The use of this expression is for the person that is struggling. Those around them are not the ones meant to say it or tell it to the person who is experiencing a difficulty.

Comforting Correctly

The moment to inspire an individual by expressing gam zu litovah is when a resolution is in sight. It is at a time when the individual is emotionally and mentally capable of accepting such sentiments. In a similar vein, Hashem conveyed to Moshe that He was present during this period of servitude, and He would accompany them in future servitudes and exiles among the nations. This message was solely for Moshe at the burning bush and was not meant for dissemination among the Jewish people at that time. However, it was a message designed for the people following their exodus from Mitzrayim. It served to instill hope in the people, assuring them that just as He was with them in Mitzrayim, He would perpetually be by their side.

There exists an appropriate moment and setting to discuss the future. However, when a person close to us is experiencing hardship, it is crucial to direct our attention to the present situation and prevent them from losing faith in what lies ahead. Yes, Hashem would be with His people during all their challenging exiles, but, at this point, they simply needed to understand that He was with them at that very moment. Let us commit to learning this lesson effectively and work towards comforting and consoling one another in a way that facilitates the other person's sense of comfort and reassurance.