Luck

By RABBI JOSEPH H. PROUSER

A seemingly jaded, self-deprecating saying of the Sages suggests: “Ein Mazal L’Yisrael” (Shabbat 156, Nedarim 32A). Superficially (and in its ironic, colloquial usage) this maxim means “Israel has no luck!” That is, “The Jewish People can’t seem to catch a break!” We have no “mazel” — no good fortune at all!

“Mazal” actually means “planet.” Thus, the original force of this Rabbinic aphorism is not in the least self-deprecating. Quite the contrary!! It is a defiant statement of Jewish optimism!! “Ein Mazal L’Yisrael” – The destiny of the Jewish People is not a matter of mere luck or fortune. Jewish history is not reliant on the alignment of planets or a function of astrological conditions (as the ancients – and some superstitious moderns – might believe).

Our national existence and individual fates are not directed by chance or happenstance; we are not impelled by randomness or chaos. Rather, the still unfolding destiny of the Jewish People (and each of us) is ultimately in the hands of a watchful and loving God, a faithful Covenant Partner.

Uttered in response to tragedy, personal set-backs, or shared adversity, “Ein Mazal L’Yisrael” is not a cry of despair over our losses. It is a confident affirmation of faith despite them.

That faith is our very good fortune, indeed!

(Rabbi Joseph H. Prouser is the rabbi of Temple Emanuel of North Jersey and the National Chaplain of the National Jewish Committee on Scouting.)