For most of my life I have heard women’s stories about how they have been abused by men. Every single one of them who was willing to talk about it said that they were blamed for the abuse they received. They were blamed for being pretty or sexy, or for smiling, or for what they wore. Religion is one of the main sources for this; women are told what to wear and how to act so men won’t “lose control.” It is the woman’s job, we are told, to make sure the man is satisfied so he doesn’t cheat. Women have to cover their hair and dress demurely so as not to draw unwanted attention. Men, on the other hand, are encouraged to be cheaters, called studs for their alleged prowess. Women are called whores. The victim is blamed.
I thought of this recently as I spoke with some Jewish friends who are feeling very alone right now. To be clear – I think Israel is being led down a terrible path, and the behavior of their government is dangerous. The situation in Israel and Gaza is complicated and chaotic, and I, like most people, weep over the deaths of innocent people in that region. But – Hamas is a terrorist organization that is holding Israel and the Palestinians hostage. Hamas committed a terrorist act on October 7th, knowing full well the suffering it would bring on its own people. Hamas hides behind Palestinian children and in the basements of schools and hospitals, daring Israel to shoot, while Israel stands in front of their children, schools, and hospitals, trying to protect them. Hamas doesn’t care if Palestinians die. They steal the food being brought in. Hamas attacked Israel, and Israel is being blamed for it.
As are Jews all over the world. The attack in Colorado was just one more instance of the victims being blamed. Jews in America and other parts of the world are not to blame for what has been happening in the Middle East for decades, if not centuries. For the situation in Israel and Gaza to be healed, sanity must be restored on all sides. Hamas must be removed for the sake of the Palestinians and Israel. The victims, not the terrorists, should be cared for and supported. The Palestinians need a homeland, and Israel should have the right to exist. Let’s stop blaming the victims – they’ve suffered enough.
Prayer – Holy God, let Your justice flow so that those who commit evil are thwarted and the innocent find peace. Amen.
Today’s art is “Grief” by Mahmoud Sabri, (c.1960s).