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Drash for Shabbat Noach By Lori Riegel - October 12, 2007 When I found out I was sharing a Drash this week, I could not have been more excited to examine one of our most popular Biblical stories, Parshat Noach. The story of Noah resonates with children and adults alike, and not just because of the Steve Carell movie. Although Parshat Noach is filled with many relevant themes, my true activist spirit is drawn to the role of animals in the text. Last week, when we read Beresheet, we learned that animals were created before humanity, and about our dominion over animals. Jumping ahead to Parshat Noach, I'm sure we can all picture from the childhood song, the animals marching along by "twosies". Ask any child to explain the story of Noah, and the first thing they will tell you about is usually the animals on the ark. The Torah is filled with regulations and guidance on how we are supposed to treat animals, as well as heroes who show kindness and respect for animals. Rebecca was chosen as a wife for Isaac because of her kindness to Eliezer's camels. The Talmud also teaches us that God recognized Moshe's mercy to his flock, and therefore chose him to be the shepherd of God's own flock, the people of Israel. There are many opportunities for us to live Torah through kindness and compassion for our furry friends. For the past ten years, students in my Hebrew School classes have heard me talk about how amazing greyhounds are. In fact, you can see for yourself how cute they are. One way for me to connect with my Judaism regularly is to practice what I preach, namely, kindness to animals. I have been a volunteer with Arizona Greyhound Rescue for ten years, and have adopted two hounds myself. I am asking you today to raise your awareness about the industry, and take small actions which make a big difference. In fact, for just $27 you can provide one month of food and medication for hounds waiting for a forever home. Please pick up a brochure on your way out tonight. I encourage you to join me in practicing the mitzvah of Tzar Ba'alei Chaim, prevention of cruelty to animals, either with AGR or the animal rescue group of your choice. To end on a happy note, greyhounds make fantastic pets. Ask me about adopting a 45-mile-an-hour couch potato! Shabbat Shalom.
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