Parashat Behaalotecha
13th June 2025
Week of 8– 14 June 2025
Torah portion: Numbers 8:1-12:16 Haftarah: Zechariah 2:14-4:7
Theme: Tending the Flame; A shared call to keep the light alive
In Jewish tradition, the command to Aaron to raise the lamps of the Menorah (Num. 8:2) is a call to ensure continuous divine light in the sanctuary. Leadership in this portion is scrutinized, as Moses wrestles with the burdens of leading a people and the delegation of authority to the seventy elders is introduced. While running into ordinary life, light helps us see, move safely, and find direction. It brings warmth and life. Spiritually, the same is true: light reveals truth, offers guidance, and reflects God’s presence. The Menorah in the Tabernacle was not just a lamp—it was a symbol of divine light shining in a dark world. When Aaron “raised” the lamps, he elevated not only flames, but also the people’s awareness of God.
For Jews, this light represents the Torah and the call to be “a light to the nations” (Isaiah 49:6). For Catholics, it echoes the light of Christ- “the light of the world” (John 8:12)—who invites His followers to reflect that light: “Let your light shine before others” (Matthew 5:16).
But keeping the light burning is not easy. In both traditions, the challenge remains: how do we guard and share the light of faith in a world full of distraction, injustice, and spiritual fatigue? The Menorah required pure oil and daily tending. Likewise, the light of faith needs care—through prayer, study, service, and community. Aaron’s task, then, becomes ours: to tend the flame, not let it flicker or fade.
God doesn’t need the light—we do. And through it, we remember that leadership, faith, and mission are not sustained by strength alone, but—as the prophet Zechariah reminds us- “not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit” (Zechariah 4:6). This shared scriptural heritage invites Catholics and Jews alike to reflect on leadership, the role of divine light in our lives, and our collective responsibility to uphold justice and compassion.
For Reflection and Discussion:
1.  What does it mean in your faith tradition to “raise the light” for others? How do you live this out?
2.  How can Catholics and Jews collaborate to “be a light to the nations” in a pluralistic and often divided world?
Bibliography: McKenzie, J.L. Dictionary of the Bible (New York: 1965)
This week’s Parasha Commentary was prepared by
Jefferson Philip Jacob Reyes, France, Bat Kol Alumnus: 2019
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