Vaetchanan 2020
Isaac’s Parsha Corner · 2020
The Parsha opens with Moshe’s report as to his own interaction with G-d begging to be allowed to enter the land. His purpose in this report is to assure the people that he is not afraid but is being denied entry by G-d. It serves as a punctuation point to the message of last week’s Parsha; “I am leaving and Joshua is taking over by order of G-d. He will lead you he has G-d’s full and total support.” The rest of the Parsha and the following two Parshiyot emphasize the importance of keeping G-d’s commandments as a precondition to remaining in the land. The people are warned about what will happen if they follow idol worshipping sects. “You saw with your own eyes what G-d did at Baal Peor; everyone who followed Peor was destroyed.” The positive aspects are emphasized as well. “Who but you has such a great Torah, and who but you has a G-d who is so close whenever we cry out Him.” We are warned against forgetting the miracles and the Torah and instructed to notify our children and their children about the Sinai experience. Once again Moshe reminds the people that even he was punished for his sins by being denied access to the land. YOU TOO will receive the same results if you fail! Moshe predicts the downfall of his people and their subsequent return. Moshe instructs the people to build three cities of refuge. The conquering has already begun, the tribes have been given their portion and cities are being built! Its happening!
Moshe calls out everyone and repeats the “Ten Commandments.” He instructs the people to love their G-d. “And you shall love G-d with all your heart your and your resources”. These two portions of the Torah are primary and fundamental. Moshe notifies the people “You are a chosen people”. You were chosen because He loves you and has made a promise to your forefathers to redeem you from bondage. Finally G-d is trustworthy; he keeps his promises for now and forever. In exchange you too must keep your promise by guarding the commandments. That way you will inherit the land now and forever.
Have a good Shabbat and an easy fast,