Dear Readers,

One of the intriguing stories in the Torah is the ordeal of the isha sotah, the wife who has deviated from the prescribed moral road and is suspected of adultery.

The couple can decide to terminate the marriage, but should they wish to resume it, the suspecting husband brings his wife to the priest, who prepares a potion made of special water mixed with earth from the Tabernacle floor. The wife drinks the bitter waters and, if guilty, dies an accursed death. If innocent, however, the waters have no effect, she is cleared of all suspicion and blessed.

There are many lessons that can be learned from this episode. But what makes this story particularly fascinating is the ritual that takes place before the woman drinks the potion. The priest writes words of the Torah on a scroll and then dissolves the ink into the water. The words include G‑d’s holiest name. This name is considered so holy that it is never pronounced aloud, except on the holiest day of the year by the High Priest in the Temple.

What is the significance of dissolving and erasing G‑d’s holy name?

The woman suspected of adultery is in a state of turmoil and conflict, and her relationship with her husband is strained. By erasing His name, G‑d is essentially saying that He is willing to put aside His own honor to bring peace and reconciliation between the couple.

The erasure of G‑d’s name also represents a transformation. Repentance and reconciliation can turn even the most bitter and painful experiences into opportunities for growth and healing.

Ultimately, the story teaches us a powerful lesson: G‑d is willing to put aside His honor and glory for peace. Are we?

How often do we face a situation where a little humility or “the erasure” of our ego can easily resolve a conflict? How much are we prepared to bend in order to repair a misunderstanding?

“Seek peace and pursue it.”1 True peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of understanding, compassion and harmony. Pursuing its path can transform our relationships and our world. It can also bring us a greater inner sense of wholeness and healing.

Wishing you a wonderful and peaceful week!

Chana Weisberg
Editor, TJW