In the beginning of this week's parsha, we learn about how we can be infected by what is in the air around us. We read that an open vessel can become unclean. Rashi interprets an "open vessel" as an earthen-ware vessel, as they are sensitive on the inside, not the outside. If they are not tightly sealed, therefore, they can receive what is in the air, dangerous if it is unclean. If they are sealed, the material will not allow this negative air to penetrate. So they are only vulnerable if they are not completely closed.
Why am I interested in vessels, earthen-ware or not? Why does the issue of vessels occur here at the start of a section in which both Miriam and Aaron will die, and Moses will be told that he will not enter the land to which he has faithfully been leading the people? What can I learn from an earthen-ware vessel?
I simply identify with this struggle to keep the negative out of my system. I also am sensitive on the inside, easily contaminated by infection if it is able to enter. Sometimes I am surrounded by elements that bring me down, out of a "clean" place, which to me is a place of simplicity, clarity.
In this parsha, Am Yisrael is filled with complaints, mistrust, lack of faith. After the death of Miriam, there is no more water for them in the desert. Moses and Aaron have to face the fear and insecurity of the rest of the people. They must be "sealed," closed off to the negativity that surrounds them, strong in their belief that they will have water, that they must listen to the voice that has gotten them this far. The voice of Hashem is telling Moses to speak to a rock in order to bring water. Unfortunately, Moses hits the rock instead, thereby losing his chance to enter the land of Israel. Both he and Aaron are denied entry and will die in the desert within sight of their destination.
I recall the lesson at the beginning: the vessel, closed off completely to infection, to negative influence. We must be sealed, so sure in where we are, full of faith in where we are going, which so often seems completely out of our control. We have to be very quiet in order to hear the voice that is guiding us, leading us to a place that is safe. Most of all, we should have no fear. There is so much that is unknown, potentially dark and dangerous, but we are sealed, full, quiet, becoming complete.