The "Ki Titze" affair and our commitment to the Ksufim

3 min read

This week's Torah portion, "When You Go Out," is one of the most commandment-laden portions in the entire Torah. It covers a wide range of topics, from wartime politics to everyday laws. But through the abundance of details, a second clear and moving thread emerges: our responsibility towards others, and especially towards those who are in distress or in need of protection. One of the most prominent commandments in the parsha is the commandment of the lost Sabbath: “You shall not see your brother’s ox or his sheep going astray, and you shall not pass by them… you shall not pass by them” (Deuteronomy 22:1-3). The Torah is not satisfied with not harming others; it demands active involvement from us. We are not allowed to “turn a blind eye” when we see someone who has lost their way, their property, or their hope. We are obligated to act. Another commandment that emphasizes a similar idea is the commandment of unloading and loading: “You shall not see your brother’s donkey or his ox going astray, and you shall not pass by them” (Deuteronomy 22:1-3). "On the way, and you were hid from them; rise up and stand with him" (ibid., 4). Here, the responsibility is to help those who are bowed down under the burden. This commandment – "You shall not be able to ignore" – is the driving force behind our work at Kissufim . Since the events of Simchat Torah, October 7, many families have found themselves bowed down under the burden of pain, uncertainty and anxiety. In the spirit of the parshas "When You Go Out," we decided that we could not ignore.

Restoring the spiritual and emotional loss: We work tirelessly in the prayer tent in Hatufim Square to restore a little comfort and hope to families. The prayer journeys in Israel and around the world, and the evenings of encouragement and the opening prayer, are our way of telling families: You are not alone. We are here to help you find the strength that has been lost.
Helping to Bear the Burden: Through the connections we create between the families of the abductees, the great men of Israel, and the religious and ultra-Orthodox community, we work to "raise and raise up with him." We are building a network of spiritual and community support that will help carry the unbearable burden.
Not turning a blind eye to IDF soldiers: Even as we work to strengthen our fighters, spiritually and physically, we fulfill the commandment not to ignore those on the front lines, and to ensure that they have everything they need, from tzitzit and holy books to essential equipment.
Building a caring society: Our efforts to integrate the ultra-Orthodox and religious community into Israeli society also stem from the same recognition – we must see all parts of the people, connect them, and ensure that no group is left behind.

The parsha "Ki Tetzeh" reminds us that Judaism is not measured only between a person and a place, but no less so, in the way we respond to the distress of others. In Kisufim, we choose every day not to ignore, but to reach out, embrace, and open our hearts. Shabbat Shalom!