Jennifer and I are traveling around Iceland this week. It is an astonishing place. Beyond the volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls, we’ve also learned about the country’s remarkable history.
In 930 CE, Viking chieftains established the Althing at Thingvellir, one of the world’s oldest parliaments. It was an early experiment in self-government. But internal conflict and inequality eventually weakened the nation, and Iceland would not regain full independence until 1944.
This week we celebrated America’s 250th birthday. Our story has been different, though not always easy. We have endured conflict, injustice, and even civil war. Today, there are real threats to our democracy and those who would define America by blood and soil rather than by its ideals. Yet, over two and a half centuries, we have continued expanding the promise that all of us are created equal. Through all our ups and downs, our nation’s enduring strength has been its ability to return, again and again, to its founding principles.
Our tradition reminds us that democracy is not merely a system of government; it is a sacred responsibility: “One does not appoint a leader over the community without first consulting the community.” It imagines God asking Moses whether Betzalel is fit to build the Mishkan. Moses replies, “If he is acceptable to You, surely he is acceptable to me.” God answers, “Nevertheless, go and ask the people.” (Berachot 55a)
May we continue to embrace that sacred responsibility: choosing our leaders thoughtfully, holding them accountable faithfully, and continuing the unfinished work of building a nation that comes ever closer to liberty and justice for all.
