| Rabbi Chaim Drukman (1932-2022) |
We discuss the question of how redemption and the rebuilding of Israel can take place through actions of non mitzva-observant Jews. Based on Rabbi Teichtal, Rav Kook, and the Rambam, we see that that God’s providence transcends human judgment. Even non-observant pioneers may serve as divine messengers, with their sacrifice for Israel holding profound spiritual significance.
This article is an extract from Rabbi Chaim Drukman’s book, “Step by Step,” an enlightening discussion of the process of redemption that is taking place in our generation. (Adapted and translated by Moshe Goldberg)
“We Sinned Against You with a Questioning Heart”
One of the main objections that some people have against the State of Israel is that from the very beginning the country’s main leadership were not part of the “faithful” community, but were what is termed “irreligious” or “non-observant.”
During the Holocaust, Rabbi Yissachar Teichtal changed his mind about God’s attitude towards the people living in Eretz Yisrael and while he was hiding from the Nazis he wrote his conclusions in the book Eim HaBanim Semeichah. Rabbi Teichtal writes:
I know, my son, I know, that you will challenge my position with a strong argument. If it is true that the rebuilding of our Holy Land is a sign of the imminent end of days and the beginning of the Redemption, how could most of the builders, unfortunately, desecrate Shabbat and commit other sins? They are almost like gentiles, due to our numerous sins. How could the Creator of the Universe bring the beginning of Redemption through them? Do we not maintain that "good things are brought about by good people (Shabbat 32a)"? Eim HaBanim Semeichah, pp. 183-184.
Indeed, how can it be that the Redemption we anticipated for 2,000 years; which past generations dreamed and prayed for - an expression of the hopes of Yisrael for the fulfillment of the prophecy, For the Torah will emanate from Zion and the word of God from Jerusalem (Yishayahu 2:3) - how can it be that this will be fulfilled by people who live in a way that contradicts the prophesy? These people are far removed from sanctity and purity, and some of them explicitly fight against the Torah and its mitzvot!
Here is Rabbi Teichtal’s answer:
My beloved son, although your refutation seems formidable, take heed and hear my words (see Devarim 27:9). Know, my son, that no one can fathom the deeds of He Who is Perfect in Knowledge (see Iyov 37:16). He is the God of the Universe, the Creator of All. Everything that happens in the world comes from Him. His thoughts are profound and He generates causes and effects, tying one strand to another until His decrees are fulfilled down on earth. He knows why he specifically chose these people to bring about the beginning of Redemption. (Ibid., p. 184)
