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By now, I’m quite certain each of you has heard of COVID-19 or the coronavirus. I have probably read many of the same articles and Facebook posts as you have, and while I have amassed a fair amount of information and opinions about it, I fully know that my rabbinical degree gives me absolutely no knowledge base to offer you any kind of valuable medical insight.

However, as this virus continues to be a presence in our communities and in our thoughts, I want to share a Jewish perspective.

You may remember that on Yom Kippur, I spoke to you about a quote from Rebbe Nachman of Breslov, who famously said, “The whole world is a very narrow bridge, and the important thing is not to be afraid.” Yet in turns out that Rebbe Nachman’s words were mistranslated, and what he actually said is that the important thing is “not to freak yourself out.”

My friends, let’s take these words to heart. More frightening than this illness is the wave of panic and loss of reason that is overtaking many of us. When people are overwhelmed by fear, they can act in foolish, dangerous, and decidedly un-Jewish ways. The minute we stop acting like mensches is when we truly need to be afraid.

So how can we act Jewishly in the face of this virus, beyond doing our best to not freak out?

First, this is not the time to stockpile supplies, or to go to a clinic to get checked out “just in case.” Our hospitals and medical professionals have their hands full even without the coronavirus; their calling is that of pikuach nefesh, the supreme Jewish value of saving a life, yet it is a duty we all share. If we purchase facemasks and huge quantities of supplies like sanitizer or toilet paper, it almost certainly means that others are going without. Let us act with reason and compassion so that everyone has what they need.

Second, be aware of how you speak about the coronavirus, especially around children. When we respond to a potential threat with suspicion, fear, and xenophobia, we are setting a frightening example that they will not forget. This illness will reach our community, but the most lasting effects will almost certainly not be among those who are taken ill, but in what our children and neighbors remember about how we acted when faced with a crisis.   

Lastly, this is a time when our community can be at its best. Please check on your neighbors. If you notice someone not following their regular routines, whether it’s the man who sits next to you in services or the woman who usually works out on the elliptical next to yours, don’t just wonder. Check in on them and let us know if someone may be in need.

Take a deep breath. Turn off the news. Come to services or watch from home and sing a mi shebeirach. We are here for you.

And of course, wash your hands.

For ongoing information on coronavirus from St. Louis County, visit: https://stlouisco.com/Your-Government/County-Executive