Parshat Shavuot: 3323 Years
by Rabbi Lobel

“Return, return O' those perfect in His (G-d's) faith; return, return and let us crown you.” (Song of Songs 7:1)

Rabeinu Bechaya (13the Century Spain; Exodus 19:17) explains, based on the Midrash (Compilation of Jewish Homiletic 400 CE – 600CE), why Song of Songs uses the word “Return” four times in one verse. The Jewish people would suffer through four exiles, Egyptian, Babylonian, Greek, and our current exile, the Exile of Edom. In each exile, the Children of Israel will be enticed by the nations of the world to come and join them. “Return and let us crown you” - the world will promise Israel prestige, leadership, and wealth. “Return” is written four times to indicate that these influences will be strong in each exile.

The influence to abandon our ancient Torah, its laws and precepts, and to follow in the modern footsteps of society was, and will always be, constant throughout our history in exile.

Rabeinu Bechaya says the only refutation to the influences and enticement is the latter half of the above verse - “What can You, Nations of the world, crown us with. Can you crown us with the same joy as the reception of the Torah?” (Translated as explained by Rabeinu Bechaya)

The world may seem filled with opportunities and enticements to bring us joy.  Since ancient times, when Israel stood at Sinai 3323 years ago, we have struggled to resist the lures of the secular world. Knowing we are not alone in our struggles can give us the strength to adhere to the Torah, the only source of ultimate happiness.