One of the most compelling verses in the Prophets comes in this week’s haftarah reading: "Since I, ADONAI, have not changed, so you sons of Jacob have not been annihilated” (Mal 3:6).

This verse certainly had great meaning in its peshat (plain sense) to Malachi’s hearers in the 5th century BCE. Yet I cannot help but think that it reveals a general principle that has held true for our Jewish people throughout our entire history.