As we begin the Torah anew with Parashat Bereshit, we are reminded of the very first moments of creation, light emerging from darkness, order from chaos, and life taking form from the void. The story of Bereshit is not only a narrative of how the world began, it is also a call to each of us to bring light, structure, and goodness into our own world. In these verses, HaShem’s act of creation becomes a timeless symbol of hope, that even in the darkest moments, renewal is possible.
This week, that message feels especially poignant. As Israel continues to navigate the painful reality of the war and the hostage crisis, we have witnessed both immense joy and deep sorrow. The release of living hostages brings tears of relief and gratitude, while the cruel withholding of the bodies of the deceased by Hamas is a wound that remains open. These acts, in clear violation of the peace agreement, test our faith in humanity. Yet Bereshit reminds us that even in a world fractured by cruelty, the divine call to create light still stands. We pray that light will overcome darkness, that peace will emerge from conflict, and that every family, those reunited and those still waiting, will one day know comfort and security. May this be a week when our prayers for shalom are answered both in Israel and across the Jewish world.