By Ally Hadge, Features Editor
In Exodus 19:6, prior to the Jewish people receiving the Ten Commandments at Har Sinai, the Torah states, “You shall be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.”
In Judaism, the concept of being chosen is rooted in the idea that Hashem selects each individual for a unique purpose. The phrase “Am Segulah,” meaning a treasured nation, carries profound implications for one’s identity, duty and moral values. Understanding what it means to be divinely chosen is essential for every member of the Jewish community.
The Jewish people represent less than 1% of the world’s population. This small percentage underscores the importance of the Jewish people’s voice and contributions to society. Being chosen is not just an honor, but an invitation to make change, working persistently to improve the world around us. Hashem purposefully left room for us to play a part in His creation in the world. “Tikkun Olam,” the idea that we can repair the world, is a Jewish concept focusing on reviving the G-dliness that was once present in the world but is no longer here due to the detachment of spirituality.
This past summer, I had the privilege of attending a volunteer mission trip to Israel through the Jewish National Fund USA. JNF makes an effort to rebuild homes and communities within Israel. Along with 40 other Jewish students from various college campuses across the country, we helped restore the homes of returning evacuees, ensuring they were beautiful and welcoming for their return after the devastation of October 7.
We went to Tzohar, a small community in the Southern part of Israel, specifically located in the Negev desert. What was intended to be just a few hours turned into three days filled with cleaning, painting and planting. As we entered Tzohar, we were greeted by streets filled with dust, dirt, trash and leaves. The buildings appeared old, rusty and worn. Eager to help, some of us picked up paint and brushes, while others grabbed seeds and water, and a few more took brooms and shovels.
Excitement filled the air as we revitalized the community, returning it to the vibrant place it once was. The people of Tzohar expressed their heartfelt gratitude for what we had helped to create and we felt thrilled to be part of this effort. Although our connection to Israel was strong, this experience further deepened our bond with the land itself. I anticipate returning to Tzohar one day to visit and seeing the place we completely transformed again.
We all have the opportunity to do “Tikkun Olam” in our daily lives. One person’s actions may seem insignificant, but with collective efforts can make a huge difference. Every positive deed contributes to a larger movement. Holding the door open for someone or complimenting a stranger can create a ripple effect. Engaging with small, everyday mitzvot fosters personal and spiritual growth. You not only enhance your own wellbeing, but also take part in building a more compassionate, connected, and resilient community.
In the book Derech Hashem, Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto (also known as the Ramchal), writes, “The purpose of creation is that there be a world in which G-d’s glory can be revealed.” Hashem’s greatness and qualities need to be displayed and recognized. Being chosen is a call to action. It is essential to rise to the occasion and make a difference, no matter how big or small. Take notice of your surroundings and engage with something larger than yourself. Each Jewish soul has the ability to make an impact both inside and outside of the Jewish community. Hashem has chosen you; it’s your responsibility to show Him the reasons why.