The Autistic Parashah | Behar
Our Torah portion this week, Parashat Behar (Leviticus 25:1-26:2), introduces us to the practices of the Sabbatical year, or Shmita, and the Jubilee year, or Yovel. These ancient practices emphasize rest, renewal, justice, and a rejection of productivism, offering rich metaphors and teachings that resonate deeply with the principles of the Neurodiversity Paradigm and radical disability justice.
The Sabbatical year, observed every seven years, mandates that the (biblical) land (of Israel) must lie fallow and untouched. This practice allows the soil to rejuvenate, preventing its exploitation and depletion. This is a fantastic lesson for us today, although later rabbis created a number of loopholes that arguably go against the intent of rest. For autistic and other disabled humans, this can be seen as a powerful acknowledgment of the necessity for regular, restorative breaks in our lives. Just as the land needs time to renew its strength, so too do we require periods of rest to maintain our well-being and promote healthy growth.
Rashi, the foremost medieval (11th century) commentator from Northern France, highlights that Shmita serves as a test of faith, reminding us that the land belongs to God and that humans are mere stewards. His commentaries on the Torah and the Talmud are foundational texts in Jewish learning, providing straightforward and accessible interpretations that have guided Jewish study for centuries.
Rashi’s explanation of Shmita emphasizes divine ownership of the land and the human role as caretakers. This perspective can be extended to the understanding that just as the land requires respectful stewardship, society should respect and support the unique needs of neurodivergent people. Recognizing that our differences are not deficits but essential and normal aspects of human diversity is crucial. In the same way that the land is given rest to rejuvenate and sustain its health, neurodivergent individuals need periods of rest and accommodation to thrive. Respecting these needs acknowledges the inherent value and dignity of all individuals, created in the divine image, and emphasizes that everyone deserves the opportunity to flourish without constant pressure to conform to neurotypical standards. Indeed, rest and accommodation are beneficial to all living beings, fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society.
Moreover, the concept of Shmita aligns with the idea of pacing and energy management often advocated in the disability community. Autistic humans frequently navigate a world that demands continuous adaptation and can lead to autistic burnout. Recognizing the importance of rest periods, similar to the fallow periods of Shmita, is essential in promoting long-term well-being and preventing the detrimental effects of overexertion.
Every fifty years, the Jubilee year represents an even more significant societal reset: debts are forgiven, slaves are freed (more about that here), and the land is returned to its original owners. This radical redistribution of resources and restoration of social order closely aligns with the principles of radical disability justice. The Jubilee year calls for a society where resources and opportunities are equitably shared and historical wrongs are righted, embodying the ethos of a truly inclusive community.
The Ramban, also known as Nachmanides, was a medieval Spanish rabbi, physician, philosopher, and biblical commentator who lived in the 13th century. The Ramban’s commentaries often delve into the mystical and ethical dimensions of the Torah. He interprets the Jubilee year as a time of joy and liberation, reflecting an ideal vision of ultimate redemption and freedom. For the disability community, this vision can be seen as a world where all individuals have the freedom to live authentically, free from barriers and systemic oppression. The concept of the Jubilee year challenges us to envision and work towards a society that prioritizes equity and the well-being of all its members, including disabled ones.
Rabbi Shai Held speaks about the connection of God referring to Shabbat at the end of the instructions for building the Mishkan (the Tabernacle). He notes that the "tightly ordered" Mishkan contrasts with the "frightening and chaotic world" we inhabit. Shabbat serves as a refuge from this chaos, a sanctuary of order and peace. This idea resonates deeply with autistic individuals who often seek refuge from an ableist society. Shabbat provides a reason to take a break from the need to fit in (masking) and ties our value as humans to our inherent worth, not our productivity. Indeed, the Talmud (Berakhot 57b) speaks of Shabbat being 1/60 of the World to Come, offering a taste of the ultimate peace and perfection that awaits.
The principles found in Parashat Behar resonate deeply with the values of the Neurodiversity Paradigm and disability justice. The Sabbatical year teaches us the importance of rest and respect for natural rhythms, while the Jubilee year calls for a radical restructuring of society to ensure justice and equity. These ancient practices offer timeless wisdom for building a world where neurodivergent individuals are respected, supported, and able to flourish.
In the context of modern society, these teachings can inspire us to advocate for policies and practices that support the well-being of neurodivergent individuals. This includes ensuring access to adequate healthcare, education, and employment opportunities that accommodate our unique needs. It also involves challenging ableist structures and attitudes that perpetuate discrimination and exclusion.
The Neurodiversity Paradigm asserts that neurological differences, such as autism, are natural variations of the human experience. This perspective aligns with the teachings of Parashat Behar, which emphasize the importance of respecting and nurturing diversity. Just as the land requires periods of rest to sustain its fertility, neurodivergent individuals need environments that respect our need for rest and renewal.
The Radical Disability Justice movement, which seeks to address the root causes of disability oppression, finds a powerful ally in the teachings of the Jubilee year. By advocating for the redistribution of resources and the dismantling of oppressive systems, this movement echoes the call for a society that values and uplifts all its members.
Parashat Behar offers insights into the importance of rest, renewal, and justice. By embracing these teachings, we can work towards a society that values the contributions of neurodivergent individuals and strives for a world where equity and liberation are a reality for all. These ancient practices remind us of the timeless relevance of justice, compassion, and the imperative to create a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone.
Shabbat Shalom.
