Hineni

Ha’azinu

Deut. 32:1-52

 

Précis: The parasha, the shortest in the Five Books, containing only 52 verses, begins with the “Song of Moses,” a hymn sung by Moses within sight of the Promised Land. The song contrasts God’s fidelity with the faithlessness of the People, and the need of the People to learn from their history under God’s care. Moses predicts that Israel’s enemies will be overcome. He is told to climb a mountain to see the Promised Land he will not enter, as he prepares for his death. This is the last parasha read on Shabbat in the annual cycle: the final parasha (V’zot Habracha) is read traditionally on Simchat Torah.

Deut. 32:52 “You may view the land from a distance, but you shall not enter it, the land that I am giving to the Israelite people.”

            Imagine, if you will, Moses’ reaction to this statement. He has previously been told that he would not enter the Land, but now, looking at it, the reality of his predicament becomes concrete. There is no further appeal. He must accept his destiny.

            In many ways, we too must learn to accept what life provides us. The dreams of our youth may never be realized, and the plans we have made may come to nothing. We can hope that the future will turn out well for us, our families, friends, and congregations, but there is no guarantee.

            The theme for my congregation (Ohr Kodesh Congregation in Chevy Chase MD.) this holiday season has been “hineni” – here I am. This particular phrase appears at key points in the Biblical narrative: by Adam, by Abraham, and by Moses. It can mean “I’m here, hiding in the bushes.” It can mean “I am here, prepared to heed Your word.” It can mean “I’m here, ready to lead your People.” To me, hineni is a statement of submission to God’s will. We can dream our dreams and see them fulfilled or unfulfilled. It can also mean (and this is how I prefer to understand it this year) “I am here, ready to thank God for the blessings we have received. As is stated in the Lev Shalem Machzor in connection with the Yom Kippur morning haftarah selection from Isaiah (58:9), Isaiah says, “When you call, Adonai will say hineni, here I am.”  Through good works, compassion, and tikkun olam, we have the chance to bring God into this world. He need not be seen from a distance.