25 March 1957
Zachmannisia
When understanding wisdom falters, brute force takes over.
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Rabbi, Hillel Silver – on his retirement: P.D. [the Cleveland Plain Dealer newspaper]
Dr. Silver recounted that his ministry here (Cleveland) had spanned the years of two world wars and the annihilation of 6 million Jews, which he called the greatest single tragedy in human history.
“These events, plus others, were enough to shake man’s capacity to get out of the jungle”, the rabbi commented. “Through the darkness I believe we can dimly discern the outline of God’s larger purpose unfolding. We are moving in the right direction.”
He lauded efforts at work in the world today to abolish war, eradicate poverty, help minority groups. “More is being done for the common man than in any time past”, he continued.
Rabbi Silver noted that imperialism and colonialism are on their way out, that efforts are being exerted to strengthen the United Nations.
“At 64 I’m an unreconstructed optimist”, he said, “never to despair for life and labor in your midst.”
He began his sermon by expressing gratitude “to a kind Providence for life and labor in your midst.”
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