PARASHAT MIKETZ

"Assimilation" and "Jewish Continuity" are two pressing issues in our Jewish consciousness, which are not modern or unique to our history as a people. It is fitting to read the story of 's political ascendancy in Egypt during this Chanukah. In this week's portion and during the Festival of Lights, we reflect on the persistent challenges of assimilation and Jewish continuity. Paradoxically, we learn that Jewish survival often necessitates a degree of acculturation.

Were it not for Joseph and his absorption into Egyptian society, the Israelite nation would not have survived the great famine of his day. Joseph becomes 's , changes his dress; assumes an Egyptian name and intermarries the daughter of a pagan priest. When Joseph's brothers come before him to beg for bread, they do not recognize him in his new Egyptian persona. He spoke through a translator yet Joseph remained an Israelite to his core — discerning his brothers' Hebrew conversation and weeping privately at their contrition.

Language long distinguished in foreign settings. Conversely, language often serves as the first sign of assimilation. The Joseph story is no exception. Joseph adopts the Egyptian language. In fact, one suggests that Joseph learned all seventy languages of the world (Sotah 36b). This "assimilation" however, enables Joseph to bring Torah to the nations.

The Maccabean revolt and the victory over Greek persecution, is another example of the subtle role of assimilation in ensuring the Jewish future. The Chanukah story is a tale of commitment to Jewish particularism in the face of powerful political and cultural influences. As Irving Greenberg argues however, the impact of Hellenism ironically contributed to the success of the Hasmonean campaign. The decision to fight in self-defense on Shabbat for example was a conscious departure from the simple traditionalism of the pious Chasidim.

In conclusion, this Shabbat weds two powerful stories in the history of — Joseph and Chanukah. Both of these central narratives in our tradition grapple with the experience of Jews under foreign control. Both of these tales reflect the delicate balance between assimilation and Jewish continuity. Modern Jews in the Conservative movement today face many of the same challenges described in these stories. What language will we speak? What food will we eat? Which philosophical influences will direct our actions? May the lessons of our history, teach us to celebrate and perpetuate the ideals of Conservative Judaism. We must always grow and change as we learn from those around us. We must always allow the sacred goal of furthering the Jewish people and embracing the Torah guide us.

Shabbat Shalom.