Humanist Prayer for the 4th of July
On this 4th of July, do we have a joyful celebration? I know many of us have asked that question. With the recent gutting of so many critical components of our government, can we look at fireworks and smile?
I say yes. But our smiles must come with the intention to work harder, do better, and promote more peace. We do not stand here today on our own. The struggle for fair and just government dates back through the millennia. The No Kings movement and the successful protests last month reminded me how long the struggle has stretched. We could even say it stretches back to 1100 BCE.
A story from the Bible:
Back in the day, when the Israelites had just settled in the land of Israel, they were governed by prophets and judges, who oversaw administration and disputes with a degree of wisdom, fairness, and insight. Samuel, in particular, was a respected leader. When Samuel grew old and there was no obvious successor, the people came to Samuel and made a demand: “Appoint a king to rule over us!”
From the Biblical book of 1 Samuel, this is Samuel’s response:
“This will be the practice of the king who will rule over you: He will take your sons and appoint them as his charioteers and riders... or they will have to plow his fields, reap his harvest, and make his weapons and the equipment for his chariots. He will take your daughters as perfumers, cooks, and bakers. He will seize your choice fields, vineyards, and olive groves, and give them to his courtiers. He will take your male and female slaves, your choice young men, and your donkeys, and put them to work for him. He will take a tenth part of your flocks, and you shall become his slaves. The day will come when you cry out because of the king whom you yourselves have chosen.”
Um, sound familiar?
Since about the 14th Century, traditional Jewish liturgy has included a prayer for the government, usually part of the Torah service. It focuses on making good decisions, creating peace, establishing fair practices, and promoting prosperity. With very rare exceptions, the prayer for the government is recited regardless of who is in office. It is a political prayer, but not a partisan one. Regardless of who is in office, the welfare of the government and our own welfare are forever linked.
On this Fourth of July, I have taken the traditional Jewish prayer for the government and revised it to fit our humanist ideals:
We pray for our country and its government. Through our words and deeds, our commitment and devotion, may we work together for blessing, prosperity, and equality. Supported by our voices, votes, and advocacy, may our leaders, judges, officers, and officials devote themselves to the needs of the public and understand the rules of justice. May we work together so that peace and security, happiness and freedom, will continue to be a cornerstone of our land. Together, may we uproot hatred and malice, jealousy and strife. And, in its place, may we plant love and companionship, peace and friendship among the many peoples and faiths who dwell in our nation.
Shabbat Shalom, and Happy 4th of July,
Rabbi Debbie Cohen
