In the words of the Prophet Isaiah “Comfort, comfort my people” one word is spoken twice: “Nachamu – Comfort.” This is no coincidence, and such repetitions are not isolated occurrences either. Behind this doubling lies a thought that touches upon the secret of the relationship between God and His people, a relationship that has never been broken, even through exile, the destruction of the Temple, and war.
Especially at a time when Israel has been at war since October 7, 2023, this message takes on a new relevance. Isaiah’s words remind us that God’s presence does not begin only after suffering. It is present in the midst of suffering. Perhaps the prophet speaks twice of comfort because not only Israel awaits redemption, but the relationship between God and His people also longs for healing.
Elsewhere the prophet says: “I, I am your comforter!” (Isaiah 51:12), and in Isaiah 61:10 the Hebrew text uses an emphatic repetition that conveys the meaning: “I rejoice, I rejoice in the LORD.” All these striking repetitions demand an explanation. At first glance,...
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Not only did Hashem leave when Israel went into exile, he returned, when they returned !
His house needs rebuilding.