Words

D’varim
Deuteronomy 1:1 - 3:22

Précis: The Book of Deuteronomy (D’varim - "words") takes the form of a series of lectures by Moses to the People as they prepare to enter the Land. Together, these instructions constitute Moses’ farewell address. D’varim is sometimes called the “Mishneh Torah”, literally, the “second teaching of the Torah” (this is where we get the Greek name of the Book) because it contains repetitions of previously enunciated matters. The Book has a strong focus on the centrality of the Temple in the Promised Land, as well as many of other rituals found at the center of Jewish life: recitation of the Sh’ma, birkat ha’mazon, Shabbat observance, wearing tallit and t’fillin, reciting kiddush on Shabbat, and placing mezuzot on doorposts.
     The Book is what modern analysts call a “foundation account.” It is a story that sets out the archetype that future generations are expected to understand. Our account focuses on inner struggles: the dangers of lacking faith, of not trusting in God and of being willing to quit the struggle.
     The first parasha recounts the four decades of travel through the wilderness, the story of the spies, the appointment of judges, victories in the wilderness against enemies, and how the conquered land is to be divided. This parasha is read every year on Shabbat Chazon, the Shabbat prior to the fast of Tisha B’Av. Since looking at history is a major theme of the parasha, it is certainly an appropriate reading prior to this holiday.

Deuteronomy 1:34–37 “The Eternal heard your loud complaint and, becoming angry, vowed: ‘Not one of this ....evil generation, shall see the good land that I swore to give to your fathers...’ Because of you the Eternal was incensed with me too, saying: ‘You shall not enter it either.’”
     Moses bitterly accuses the Israelites of denying him his dream of entry into the Promised Land. Just imagine his frustration and disappointment. How human Moses is! (And how unique is the Bible to reveal the weaknesses of its heroic figures.)
     When things don’t turn out the way we had hoped and dreamed, we have a tendency to blame others, and from time to time we all lash out at them. Like Moses, we may feel the bitterness that comes with unfulfilled dreams.
     Moses’ greatness is found in the fact that he places the importance of others above his own desires. He understood the concept that “expectations are planned disappointments.” He seeks the welfare of the community when he advocates for a new leader for the People who must “go out before them and come in before them.” This is the mature and wise counsel of Moses: find a leader who is unafraid to look forward to the future, despite its inevitable setbacks and disappointments. Look for a leader who is also secure enough to recall, without ego, the lessons of the past.