by Ram ben Ze'ev
In Judaism, the concept of mazel (מזל)—often misunderstood as "luck"—refers not to random fortune but to a divine flow or influence, the continuous source of life and sustenance from HaShem (השם). The phrase "Mazel Tov" expresses a wish for someone to be in harmony with this flow of blessing and divine influence. As the Talmud says, “Ein Mazel L'Yisrael” (Shabbat 156a), “Israel is not bound by the constellations.” This statement highlights that, as Jews, we are not subject to random fate or astrological influences but are guided by HaShem’s plan. In this worldview, everything we encounter—whether seemingly good or challenging—forms part of a purposeful divine plan.
The Mishnah in Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) 4:1 teaches, "Who is rich? He who is happy with his lot," encouraging us to find peace and trust in whatever HaShem grants us, recognizing that all events flow from His ultimate wisdom. This level of trust, described as bitachon (בטחון), calls on us to accept HaShem’s choices for us, understanding that they are meant for our spiritual growth.
In our tradition, the world operates on a balance between chesed (חסד, kindness) and gevurah (גבורה, strength or judgment). The Holy Zohar describes how every event, even those that may seem difficult, is part of this divine balance, helping to shape the world and us within it. We see this clearly in the story of Yosef in Bereishit (Genesis), where, after enduring betrayal and hardship, he tells his brothers, “You meant it for evil, but G-D meant it for good” (Bereishit 50:20). Yosef’s journey illustrates that what appears to be misfortune often contains hidden goodness and purpose, revealed with time and perspective.
Reflecting on recent events, like the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump and his subsequent political developments, we can see a broader theme. The acts of the shooter and Trump’s life being spared—along with his recent election win—suggest a pattern beyond isolated occurrences. If it were G-D’s immediate intent for Trump to save America, one might question why Trump "lost" the 2020 election or why G-D allowed the shooter to get into position at all. These events may hint at a larger, unfolding plan that we only partially perceive.
Our tradition invites us to see such occurrences as a series of tests or opportunities to develop our emunah (אמונה, faith) and deepen our trust in HaShem’s plan. Tehillim (Psalms) 92:6 reminds us, "How great are Your works, O L-RD, Your thoughts are very deep." In times of uncertainty or seemingly inexplicable challenges, this verse encourages us to trust in the depth of HaShem’s wisdom, even when it surpasses our understanding.
May we strengthen our emunah and bitachon in HaShem, recognizing that each event—large or small—flows from His ultimate good, guiding us on a path that serves His greater purpose, often beyond our immediate grasp.
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Bill White (Ram ben Ze'ev) is CEO of WireNews Limited, Mayside Partners Limited, MEADHANAN Agency, Kestrel Assets Limited (developer of MAYCOINS), SpudsToGo Limited and Executive Director of Hebrew Synagogue