Sabbath Morning Quarterback

On Yom Kippur, I came across an article discussing commandment fulfillment. It addressed how the changing world plays a role. The impetus for these thoughts was the chaotic period of post-World War I.

It noted that “[i]n such times, even imperfect mitzvos [commandments] are of relatively great value before God, because they come at such great effort.” Rabbi Nosson Sherman [referring to the Chofetz Chaim.]

The concept that commandment fulfillment during difficult times carries significant merit begs the question, “What is to be made of those who fail to fulfill commandments during trying times?” Should these violations be entitled some dispensation? The Torah Portion for Sukkot, which is the basis for this Post, provides insight.

The Big Heavy Penalty?

The Sukkot Torah Portion offers up a severe penalty for violating a Day of Atonement commandment.

On the Day of Atonement, which is designated a rest day- a sabbath- it is decreed that “… any person who will do any work on this very day: I shall destroy that person from among his people. ” Leviticus 23:30 [emphasis added]

The Commentator Rashi notes the language in terms of destruction.

What does destruction mean?

In the Torah, the death penalty was applied to a Sabbath violation. It was the “unnamed man” who was caught gathering wood on the Sabbath. Numbers 15:32-36.

In discussion of Sabbath violations, Commentator Dennis Prager often refers to this “unnamed” individual. He essentially asks, “were there any others who succumbed to such a punishment? Were Sabbath violations enforced to the letter of the law?

In present times, death or destruction of an individual for a Sabbath violation is certainly out of bounds. Taking such measures would be labeled as outrageous, unreasonable or barbaric.

In modern times, a less harsh interpretation of destroy perhaps offers a different perspective. The individual, by violating the commandment, is creating some separation from the community. They are placing themselves at risk of no longer being part of the collective. They, in fact, are setting themselves apart. Arguably, it is an act of self-destruction.

The Culture Clash

Secular world sporting events highlight the Yom Kippur commandment violation controversy. This year in Los Angeles, a winner take all Major League Baseball game took place. The playoff game between the Dodgers and the San Diego Padres coincided with the Yom Kippur Kol Nidre service.

As a result, there were many of those Los Angelenos praying both their soul and a Dodger victory. There were even some who chose to attend the game rather than services.

This type of distraction is all too common in Los Angeles. The Dodgers have been historically competitive and their deep dives into the playoffs often occur with games clashing with the High Holidays. Growing up, it was not uncommon that the Rabbi would give scoring updates from the pulpit or bimah. The Dodgers’ connection to the Jewish community is exentuated by the legendary Sandy Koufax.

In 1965, the most admired Jewish Athlete in history made his mark on Yom Kippur. Sandy Koufax, the Hall of Fame southpaw, declined to pitch on a World Series game set on Yom Kippur. Despite that, he was able to pitch in three of the series games and was 2-1. He had a microscopic ERA of 0.38. He ended up winning the series with a game seven performance on the mound. Despite missing the one game, he substantially participated in the series.

In Each Generation

While Dodger baseball once again challenged the faithful, this year another Jewish athlete was placed with the same dilemma. A Jewish Quarterback from BYU confronted playing on Yom Kippur.

The dynamics of College Football are far different from Major League Baseball. In College Football, every game is existential for playoff contenders. A single loss can derail an opportunity to compete for a national championship. Jake Retzlaff, the only Jewish Quarterback in FBS, decided to play for his Cougars on Yom Kippur and led his team to a 41-19 win.

In an interview, he said….“It’s going to be a special day that there’s a Jewish kid playing football on Yom Kippur because if that makes headlines, that means I get to be another light for somebody else.” Clutchpoints By referring to someone else, it is likely he was referring to the fact that BYU is a Mormon university.

The Bleak Future?

As each generation faces greater social and technological complexity and pressures, what is to be made of the future? Will it be one of greater acceptance of a failing to abide by the commandments? Do these actions place at risk one from at risk of abandoning their community altogether?

Conclusion

One tired sports’ lines is “there’s always next year.” This line convenient applies when one addresses the annual notion of a Day of Atonement. Despite the distractions we face in a busy society, next year will include another day of self reflection and atonement. Thus, another opportunity awaits. Perhaps for Mr. Retzlaff, as a role model, his most important spiritual moment will be next year.

Be well!!

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