Finding Gratitude in a World of Suffering

When the Angels Were Silent

The Gemara teaches that when the Egyptians drowned in the sea, the angels wished to sing songs of praise. Hashem stopped them and said, “My creations are drowning, and you want to sing?” Even though the Egyptians were the enemy of the Jewish people, they were still creations of Hashem. Their suffering was not something to celebrate.

At first glance, this raises a question. If the angels were not allowed to sing, why did the Jewish people sing a powerful song of praise after crossing the sea?

Why the Jewish People Did Sing

The song sung by the Israelites was not a celebration of Egypt’s downfall. It was an expression of gratitude to Hashem. They praised Him not only for their rescue, but for every detail of the miracle. They spoke about the horses, the riders, Pharaoh’s chariots, and his army being swallowed by the sea.

This song was so meaningful that it became part of our spiritual legacy. We recite it every year on Passover and even daily in our prayers.

So why were the Israelites permitted to sing while the angels were not?

The Difference Between Angels and Humans

The answer lies in the nature of angels versus human beings. Angels are described in the book of Zechariah as stationary beings. They do not grow or advance spiritually. Their song does not lead to change or development.

Human beings, however, were created to grow. We are meant to learn, improve, and move toward spiritual perfection. One of the most essential parts of that growth is developing a deep sense of gratitude for Hashem’s kindness.

When humans sing to Hashem, it is not static. It elevates us. It transforms us.

Seeing the World With Gratitude

We live in a world filled with beauty and generosity. This is not accidental. Hashem placed us here so we could notice, observe, and appreciate His goodness.

Every fruit we eat, every sip of water, every piece of bread, every breath and heartbeat is an expression of Hashem’s kindness. These daily gifts are meant to awaken gratitude within us. This is the true work of life: recognizing Hashem’s kindness again and again.

Each experience we encounter is an opportunity to grow spiritually by acknowledging the goodness that surrounds us.

Why Events Happen in the World

When Hashem brings hardship upon others and we are spared, our responsibility increases. Events like the drowning of the Egyptians were not random occurrences of nature. They were meant to awaken the Jewish people to song, reflection, and gratitude.

Our sages teach that suffering comes into the world for a reason. Nothing happens by chance. Even events that seem distant are meant to affect us, to move us, and to help us recognize the blessings we live with every day.

Responding to Suffering With Awareness

When tragedies occur in the world, whether natural disasters, wars, or accidents, Hashem may be calling out to us. Not to rejoice in pain, but to grow from it.

Seeing others suffer should lead us to thank Hashem for what we have been given. It should remind us of the peace, health, and stability we often take for granted. This response is not joy at another’s hardship, but humility and gratitude for our own blessings.

What It Means to Serve Hashem

Serving Hashem requires sensitivity. Every difficult sight we encounter is a reminder of how fragile life is and how much kindness we receive daily.

Passing by a dialysis center, for example, should awaken gratitude for healthy kidneys. Observing illness should deepen our appreciation for health. These moments are meant to shake us out of routine and renew our thankfulness.

Seeing With the Eyes and the Mind

When the Jewish people saw the Egyptians washed up on the shore, their experience was twofold. They saw with their eyes and they understood with their minds. That combination led naturally to song.

Without reflection, we risk becoming selfish and ungrateful. But when we pause to think, even ordinary experiences become powerful lessons. Through awareness and gratitude, we develop humility and a deeper connection to Hashem.

This is why the Jewish people sang. Not because others suffered, but because they recognized Hashem’s kindness and allowed it to transform them.