I am stunned. The pain of our holy nation of Israel at this time cannot be described. Our fellow Jews, amongst them Rabbi Gavriel and Rivka Holtzberg, the beloved directors of Chabad of Mumbai, were killed during the terrorist attacks that just struck India. May G‑d avenge their blood!

I'm trying to articulate how I feel and how I am certain every Jew feels at this time. But I just cannot. Instead of an analysis of a broken heart, I am going to share a Torah thought with you in memory of the victims. May G‑d have mercy on His people!

In this week's Torah portion, Toldot, we read about the life of our patriarch Isaac, the first born-Jew. In celebrating the birth and development of his son Isaac, our forefather Abraham made a feast. The Torah tells us (Genesis 21:8) that is was "big." The Midrash explains that it was big by virtue of the impressive guest list, which featured the greatest and the brightest of the generation, including the infamous giant named Og, king of Bashan.

"What is this kid worth?" he sneered. "With one finger I could squash him"

This Og wasn't just big for his size. He was literally a giant. In fact, according to the Talmud, during Noah's Flood, he managed to survive by hanging on to the roof of the Ark.

The baby boy Isaac was brought to the feast. Amidst the coos and smiles there was a smirk and a nasty comment from Og. "What is this kid worth?" he sneered. "With one finger I could squash him."

One imagines that such a comment quieted the crowd. But a voice was heard in response. It was G‑d Himself. "By your life, you will see thousands ands tens of thousands of his children. Your end will be that you will fall into their hands."

Needless to say that is exactly what happened. Og managed to live till the times of Moses, as he was leading the Jewish People to the Promised Land. Moses did battle with Og and slew him single-handedly. So much for big Og and his strength. The Jew prevailed, although apparently weaker and smaller.

This has been the story of our history ever since. They think they can squash us. They think we are weak. They never succeeded. They never will.

Friends, let us remain united in our uncompromising demand from the Almighty to send us Moshiach speedily and end the pain and suffering forever more. The Torah's prescription for situations such as these is to remain focused on life. Together we will overcome our enemies and flourish!