Eikev
Moshe's narrative of the Jewish People's journey through the desert continues in Parshat Eikev.
After mentioning sin of the golden calf and a few other unfortunate events, Moshe details his argument to G‑d on behalf of the Jewish People.
He mentions our forefathers and their merit, then Moshe adds another element into the equation. What will other people think? How would it look to others, if G‑d took the Jewish People out of Egypt only to kill them in the desert?
The logic employed in this last argument, is twofold:
1. People will say that G‑d did not have the ability to bring them all the way to Israel, and 2. That G‑d took them out of Egypt motivated by hatred to kill them in the desert.
The Abarbanel, in his commentary, asks the following, how can these two ideas be put together in one argument?
Mentioning the idea of hatred denotes G‑d's possessing the ability to fulfill his promise, but rather choosing not to fulfill it. This would be impossible to put together with the first argument of people questioning G‑d's ability.
Although, obviously the whole premise is wrong, as Moshe concludes "They are your people" - which G‑d loves - "which you brought out with great strength" - with clear ability to do as He pleases. Still the Abarbanel's explanation offers a fascinating insight into his understanding of the human psyche.
Often times it is an unfulfilled promise, or not carrying out a plan we had to help another person, that may later cause us to harbor ill feelings toward that individual. Thus, says the Abarbanel, the verses logic is perfectly sound.
A lack of ability in the beginning can ultimately lead to feelings of hatred. While The Abrbanel's explanation is only explaining the flow of the narrative and something people might say, perhaps there is a lesson there for all of us.
When we encounter feelings of displeasure with another person, it is always wise to first examine our own behavior and see if we can correct this from within ourselves.
Shabbat Shalom!
Portuguese Jewish history is a rich tapestry of accomplishment and challenge spanning the centuries. Portugal's shores have produced and housed some of our greatest Rabbis and leaders. From statesman, leader and scholar Rabbi Don Yitzchak Abarbanel to Shulchan Aruch author Rabbi Yosef Karo in the 15th century through to the Lubavitcher Rebbe's time in Lisbon in 1941, Portugal has enabled tremendous developments in strengthening community and Torah.
It is in recognition of the timeless nature of these commitments, and in honor of all of those Jews who have called Portugal home through times of brilliance and darkness, that these Torah insight's from Portugal's great Rabbis is produced - here in Portugal.
Special thanks to Rabbi Shlomo Pereira for the Portuguese translation.