Truth Over Tyranny.2: Biblical wisdom for defeating the Technocrats.
These are my insights for defeating the Transhumanist Technocracy movement, based on the teachings of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik (the Rav,) of blessed memory, on the weekly Bible portion.
In the beginning of Parashat Mikeitz, the Torah tells us this:
“It came to pass at the end of two full years..” Bereshit 41.1.
The Rav explains the use of the word “keitz (end):”
“Keitz usually denotes the end of a process. Wherever there is a historical development to be consummated, the term keitz is used.
“Biblically, the term keitz always means ‘the end,’ as in ‘the end of all flesh (is come before Me) (Gen 6.13,) and ‘mikeitz’, ‘At the end of seven years you will make a release’ (Deut 15.1). In the Talmud and Midrash, keitz refers to the messianic redemption; it is the end of galus (exile) and suffering. God promises that at some point in history the Jewish people will be redeemed. The time of redemption is the end of a long process. The maturation of this process is called keitz.” Chumash HaRav, Vol Bereshit, p 300.
Both nations and individuals can be redeemed. The Rav explains that the text in this parsha is telling us that Joseph’s suffering is ending, and his redemption is beginning. He had been politically persecuted as a Hebrew and imprisoned; but now the stage is being set for justice to be served. Indeed, his persecution prepared him for his redemption:
“Joseph’s experiences in Egypt comprised a process which offered him the opportunity to develop his specific talents. This evolution required him to spend many years in bondage and in prison. Every event had significance. Each day, week, and month contributed toward the emergence of the great biblical figure. The day and hour which marked the end of the process, the mikeitz, was precise. When the time arrived, Joseph was ready to occupy the position of vizier of Egypt.” Chumash HaRav, Vol Bereshit, p 300.
This pattern of “suffering being transformed into salvation” (my phrase) is one that has repeated itself throughout Jewish history. In modern times, we can look at the experience of Natan Sharansky:
… He was persecuted by the Soviets as a Jew.
… They imprisoned and tortured him.
.. After many years, he and others Jewish “Refuseniks” were released by the authorities.
… He then became a world-renowned freedom fighter and prominent Israeli politician.
In my opinion, the pattern can also be seen in the experience of Donald Trump as a candidate for President of the United States. The persecution of him by the Deep state has been horrific:
... In all likelihood, they killed his first wife as a warning to him to back off.
… They have tried to assassinate him twice, and very well could try again.
… They tried to take away his business and properties.
… They tried to imprison him on bogus charges.
And yet, he will now be the next American President.
I will add this:
There is a very important life lesson here. Once again the Jewish experience serves as a model for all people. What happens to us, will happen to all the nations. The persecution unleashed on each of us, can target each of you. Tyranny seeks to abolish freedom for everyone.
But at the same time, God can and will redeem us all. The suffering of every person can turn into salvation.