Rabbi Jonathan Sacks
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We do not know to which people they belonged because their particular form of moral courage transcends nationality and race. In essence, they were being asked to commit a “crime against humanity,” and they refused to do so. . . . All we know about them is that they “feared G-d and did not do what the Egyptian king had commanded.” In those words, a precedent was set that eventually became the basis of the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights*. Shifra and Puah, by refusing to obey an immoral order, redefined the moral imagination of the world. |
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Who are the people (in your own family and beyond) and the moments that have inspired you? Who and what has sparked and sustained your “moral imagination”?
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What are the lessons that you’ve learned from them, and how do you bring them into your own life? What might your “moral imagination” lead you to create (personally, professionally, or politically)?
*United Nations Declaration of Human Rights: “Whereas recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world...All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights….
Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (USA, 1929-1968),Radio Broadcast, KPFA, Santa Rita CA, January 14, 1968
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Courage is an inner resolution to go forward despite obstacles. Cowardice is submissive surrender to circumstances. Courage breeds creativity; Cowardice represses fear and is mastered by it. Cowardice asks the question, is it safe? Expediency asks the question, is it politic? Vanity asks the question, is it popular? But, conscience asks the question, is it right? |
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What does this text add to your discussion?
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In your experience, what is the relationship between courage and creativity?