Giving without a thought to receiving

MICHAEL SIEFF

This theme of restraint and modesty is a powerful lesson in Jewish teachings. We are urged to perform good deeds, not for publicity, fame or reward, but for the inherent value of the deed itself and because Hashem commands it.

The Chevrah Kadisha held its annual Zayin Adar function to honour all the staff and volunteers who perform the essential work of Jewish burial. This mitzvah is known as “chesed shel emet – kindness of truth”, because it is a final act of respect and humanity on the part of the living that the deceased can never repay.

In this material world we too often give only in order to receive. But the work performed at our cemetery is done unpretentiously, discreetly and respectfully. No-one talks about what they do in the Tahara room. There is no fanfare, no accolades, no rewards – except for those bestowed by Heaven, which we have no way of measuring or even understanding.

On this occasion a special award was presented to Rabbi Moshe Kurtstag, rosh Beth Din, who has served our community for 50 years.  A man of infinite humility, his immediate response was: “I don’t deserve this.”

That kind of modesty is characteristic of a true Jewish leader who shuns the limelight and whose motives are pure.

It occurs to me that so much of the Chev’s work is done behind the scenes – protecting the privacy of people we assist financially, people we counsel emotionally, people we prepare for burial, children we protect from harm and abuse. And that is as it should be. For the beauty and true value of good deeds is in their dignity, respect and discretion. That’s how we emulate G-d.   

If it were not for the fact that we need the support of the community to continue our essential work, we might never speak of what we do, or publicise our achievements.

But that divide between idealism and reality need not detract from the purity of purpose in our work and the fact that the Chev gives, not to get, but because there are those among us who need help.

A freilichen Purim to all!

May our partnership continue to thrive – Feedback@jhbchev.co.za