We are now in the midst of a non-routine time, when the Coronavirus is attacking many people in Israel and around the world. On the one hand, at the forefront of our minds is the great mitzvah of “V’nishmartem me’od l’nafshoteichem,” to guard our health, requiring us to do whatever we can to avert spreading and catching the disease, which can lead to endangerment of human life. With every act we do towards this aim, we merit fulfilling the mitzvah of “V’nishmartem.”
On the other hand, it is important to maintain our calm and our joie de vivre. Hashem is with us at times of trouble, as the pasuk (verse in Torah) says, “I am with him in distress.” At this time, we can feel a special closeness to Hashem and strengthen our faith that everything comes from Him.
Therefore, we will adhere closely to the rules of caution and also say Tehillim (Psalms) and learn Torah as a merit for the health of the community, secure in the assurance that Hakadosh Baruch Hu will accept our prayers, have compassion on us, and remove all illness from us.
You cannot and should not talk all day about Corona! It is permissible and even appropriate to keep updated about the situation and the instructions imposed as a result. But it is crucial for everyone to maintain an upbeat atmosphere in his home and devote thought as to how we can get through these times together with our families in the healthiest way possible. Don’t allow panic to enter your home. It is highly advisable to keep an eye on each of the members of the family and notice if their emotional tranquility is being negatively affected by this period, and, in case of necessity, to seek professional guidance and counseling on how to bring them relief.
This time, when we are called upon to gather inside the home, presents a special ‘ coronaopportunity to bring the family together and strengthen the family bond. Keep an eye out for your elderly neighbors who are alone at home, without anyone taking an active interest in their welfare. Perhaps they need help purchasing medications, food, or other vital products. Pay a little attention to what’s going on around you, and you’ll see how many chassadim you can pick up during this time, thereby rousing divine compassion on all of us.
Let’s not forget that we are still in the month of Adar, the month of joy. Adar — aleph, daled, reish — stands for “Ani Hashem rofecha (I am G-d, your Healer).” Let’s daven (pray) for our fellow Jews who are ill and for those who were stricken around the world, that Hashem should send them a refuah sheleimah (complete recovery) , and let’s also pray (as specified in halachah) for those who are healthy, that they should not take sick. And with Hashem’s help, we will merit that Hakadosh Baruch Hu will put an end to our tzarot (troubles) and redeem us in His compassion, may it be speedily and in our days, Amen.
