Giving thanks through deeds

 Eikev

Deut. 7:12 - 11:25

 

Précis: Moses continues his recapitulation of the commandments to the people, reminding them to be obedient to God’s laws in their forthcoming struggle with the Canaanites. He describes in detail the blessings which God had already provided them and reminds them to bless and thank God for the bounty they receive.

 

Deut. 8:10 “When you have eaten your fill, and have built fine houses to live in, and your herds and flocks have multiplied . . . Remember that it is the Lord your God who gives you the power to get wealth . . .”

            In this verse, we have the proof-text (origin) for the recitation of the Birkat Hamazon, the grace after meals. This verse is also an important reminder that when we achieve material wealth, we should remember that our success is not due solely to our own efforts. Rather, God has given us the ability and opportunity to achieve. The verse implies that God gives us that opportunity when we observe God’s commandments, including those about treating the poor, the orphan, the widow, and the stranger with dignity and compassion.

            Recent studies have revealed that in the United States, 300 families control 20% of the wealth of our nation. This unprecedented concentration of wealth has led us to an era of oligarchy, far exceeding the Gilded Age of the late 19^th century. Even so, there is an important distinction between the present and the previous era. Then, oligarchs like Rockefeller, Carnegie and Vanderbilt were known not only as rich titans, but also as great philanthropists. Today’s version of the super-wealthy seems more intent on funneling their money into outrageous weddings, giant private estates, political black funds, and control of the media. They display an ongoing disregard for the message of our weekly reading.