Re'eh (Deut. 11:26-16:17)

Don’t be Fooled

            Parasha Re’eh continues the reiteration of laws. Rabbinic interpretation has an interesting view on the focus of dietary laws. At the time of the rabbis’ writing, they compared the pig to the Romans. That is, pigs aren’t kosher because they have hooves, but don’t chew their cud. By having hooves they were seen as being deceptive. This can show us to be careful who we associate with and get close to. Always make sure you read the whole package and don’t just get “Kosher-style.”

'Ekev (Deut. 7:12-11:25)

Above the Influence

            This week’s parasha is ‘Ekev. Moses continues to prep the Israelites for their imminent entrance of the Promised Land. He reminds them of their previous misbehavior in the realm of forgetting their allegiance to the L-rd, i.e. the sin of the golden calf (Ki Tissa’) and Baal-peor (Balak). We must stay on our guard against evil and disrespecting Hashem. The 2^nd commandment is to “have no other gods before me.” (Ex. 20:3). If we choose to live like heathens, we will live our eternity like them.

Va-'ethannan (Deut 3:23-7:11)

More than Words

            This week’s parasha is Va-‘ethannan. In it, is the “declaration of Jewish faith,” the Shema (Deut. 6:4). Along with the V’ahavta, which follows in verses 5-9, it is to be recited twice daily. It is to be said to newborn babies and should be the last words spoken by dying Jews. The latter mitzvah was even done by Rabbi Akiva, ZK”L, as he was tortured to death by the Romans.

            The Shema is only 6 words, but it carries such great meaning. As we recite the words, think of it as renewing a pledge to Hashem. The final letters of the first word and the last word, ayin (ע) and dalet (ד), respectively, are enlarged when written in Torah scrolls and siddurim. Ayin and dalet spell Eid (עד), or witness. Let’s bear witness to Hashem’s greatness and mercy.

Devarim (Deut. 1:1-3:22)

Inspiration through Reiteration

            Devarim is the first parasha of Deuteronomy (Devarim), the final book of the Torah. The name Deuteronomy comes from the Greek “Deuteronomion” or second law. The Israelites are in Moab, right on the cusp of entering the Promised Land after 40 years in the wilderness. Moses is essentially giving them a refresher before they are without him. While they may be wondering why he is repeating himself, I’m sure they realize the benefit. You can never be over prepared. Also, you may pick up something that escaped you the first time. Instead of just learning new things all the time, try revisiting old lessons.

Mattot/Mase'ei (Num 30:2-36:13)

Not About How Fast You Get There

            The final parasha of Sifre Bamidbar is a combination of parashat Mattot and Mase’ei. The Israelites have still not reached the Promised Land, but are still planning their society, specifically cities of refuge. These were places for one who broke a law and were to be exiled. But my focus is translation. Bamidbar translates as “in the wilderness” and Mase’ei, the last parasha, translates as “journeys” or “marches.” This book begins and ends in travels.

            The same goes for our lives. We are constantly in motion. The important thing is to remember that when we are going for goals and aspirations, sometimes the journey is the destination.