Parashat Behaalotcha: How to Spread Spiritual Light in Challenging Time

By Rebbetzin Chavi Golovenshitz (2025)

In these difficult times in Eretz Yisrael, anxiety and uncertainty can dampen our spiritual enthusiasm. Yet, even amidst darkness, immense light shines through the dedication of boys learning Torah, mothers sacrificing for their families, and unwavering commitment to mitzvot. This devotion is a profound merit and a source of hope.

This week’s Parashat Behaalotcha offers timeless lessons on how each of us can illuminate our surroundings and spread spiritual light, even when life feels difficult.

Life’s Journey: Trusting Hashem’s Will

In Parashat Behaalotcha, the Children of Israel travel through the desert, guided by a divine cloud. Their every move was determined by Hashem’s will: “Al Pi Hashem Yechu, Al Pi Hashem Yachanu” — when the cloud lifted, they traveled; when it rested, they camped.

Our lives often resemble this unpredictable journey. The Ramban explains that accepting Hashem’s will is one of life’s greatest challenges. Sometimes we reach a beautiful place only to be told to move on, or we find ourselves stuck in hardship, unable to leave. This spiritual test invites us to trust Hashem’s plan fully, even when the path is unclear or uncomfortable.

The Power of Consistent Dedication: Lessons from the Menorah and Pesach Sheni

Parashat Behaalotcha highlights several profound lessons:

• Aharon’s mitzvah of lighting the Menorah: A symbol of continuous spiritual light and dedication.

• Pesach Sheni (Second Passover): A special opportunity for those who were impure during the first Passover to still fulfill the mitzvah.

The Menorah, crafted from a single piece of pure gold, represents sustained spiritual illumination. When Aharon felt overlooked because he didn’t receive voluntary gifts during the Mishkan’s dedication, Hashem comforted him: "Shelecha Gadol mi'Shelahem" — your daily lighting of the Menorah is greater than their one-time gifts.

This teaches us that consistent daily spiritual practices—such as Modeh Ani and Kriyat Shema—hold more power than occasional grand gestures. Even if we feel we fall short, a sincere desire for connection brings Hashem’s siyata d'Shmaya (heavenly help).

Channeling Desire Positively: Rising Above Challenges

The Israelites’ longing for the material comforts of Egypt led to complaints and spiritual decline. This warns us about the dangers of misdirected desire. Instead, Hashem calls us to “Kuma” — rise up with faith and look upward.

We can bring light into the world by:

• Accepting Hashem’s plan with trust.

• Making the best of our circumstances.

• Maintaining a heartfelt yearning for spiritual connection.

A Story of Transformation: The Power of Light and Love

Here is a moving example of how light and love can change lives:

A young boy, struggling with his parents’ divorce, left home and joined street teens in Jerusalem. One Shabbat, hungry, they noticed a lit balcony. One of the boys climbed up, found cholent (traditional Shabbat stew), and shared it with the group. When they returned the pot the following week, they found two crock pots waiting, along with a note: “This pot is for you.”

This simple act of unconditional love rekindled the boy’s hope. It inspired him to return home, embrace a religious life, and eventually found an organization dedicated to helping teens like himself.

Conclusion: Spreading Your Light Even in Darkness

May this story inspire us all to spread our light through positive desire and unwavering faith. Even small acts of love and dedication have the power to transform lives.

Wishing you a meaningful and illuminated Shabbat. May Hashem bless us with the strength to accept His will, the desire to connect deeply, and the courage to spread light in challenging times.

Shabbat Shalom!