A Muslim, a Christian, and a Jew walk into a hospital. No, this isn’t the start of a corny joke. It’s a very real – and very beautiful thing that I saw on a recent visit to Hadassah Mt. Scopus. I recently accompanied a friend on a routine visit to the hospital – thank God she’s okay, and I’m so glad I could play a supportive role for a friend in need. But as I sat in the waiting room, I was in awe of the harmony that existed inside the hospital. Sickness is a universal truth. And despite everyone’s different backgrounds and beliefs, in that moment, we were all united by our shared humanity and vulnerability.
Put aside differences – in times of illness and healing, we can see the true essence of our common human experience in no other place than the Hebrew Bible.
Suffering and illness are intrinsic parts of the human experience, regardless of one’s faith or background. What’s the quote that Benjamin Franklin famously shared? “Nothing is certain except death and taxes.” If that much was certain in the 1780’s, then it’s most definitely true now and there’s no question that this was the case in the Old Testement. In the book of Job, we find a poignant reflection on this universal truth:
This passage reminds us that all humans, regardless of their faith or status, face challenges and mortality. It’s a humbling thought that can foster empathy and understanding across different cultures and beliefs.
Throughout the Old Testament, we find numerous exhortations to show compassion, especially to those who are suffering. The book of Proverbs teaches:
This verse encourages us to extend kindness and support to those in need, regardless of their background. In a hospital setting, where people from all walks of life come together in times of vulnerability, this principle becomes especially relevant and powerful.
The Old Testament contains many accounts of healing, emphasizing its importance in human life. One particularly powerful story involves the healing of Naaman, a non-Jewish military commander from Syria. This account, found in the second book of Kings, beautifully illustrates how healing can transcend religious and national boundaries.
Naaman, a great and honorable man in his own country, was afflicted with leprosy. Upon the advice of an Israelite servant girl, he sought out the prophet Elisha in Israel for healing. The story unfolds:
Initially, Naaman was offended by the simplicity of Elisha’s instructions. However, upon the urging of his servants, he followed through:
The book of Ecclesiastes offers wisdom about the importance of community and mutual support:
In a hospital, where people from different faiths come together in their time of need, we see this principle in action. The shared experience of illness and healing can break down barriers and foster a sense of community and mutual support.
And of course, illness and the need for healing are universal experiences that do not discriminate based on social status or wealth:
In a hospital waiting room, we see this truth manifested. Illness affects everyone, regardless of their social standing or material wealth, reminding us of our shared humanity.
Today, where divisions often seem insurmountable, places like hospitals serve as powerful reminders of our common ground. They show us that when faced with the fundamental experiences of human life – pain, healing, birth, and death – our differences fade away, and our shared humanity shines through.
Let us carry this lesson beyond the hospital walls, treating each person we encounter with the same compassion and understanding we would offer to a sick friend or family member. Ultimately, may we find this unity not just in times of illness, but in all aspects of our lives, recognizing the divine spark that resides in every human being.
The Hebrew Bible is a very big book – actually, 24 books, to be exact. Studying it can feel very overwhelming. Where do you start?
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