B"H
Monday, Elul 13, 5784 / September 16, 2024
Parshat Ki Tavo, which we will read this Shabbat, tells us about the good which will happen to the Jewish people if they adhere to the ways of the Torah and observe G-d’s mitzvot. On the other hand, the Parsha relates the many difficulties which will befall the Jewish people, G-d forbid, if they do not follow G-d’s commandments.
The Torah says that in reward for observing the mitzvot, “The L-rd will command the blessings with you in your barns and in all that you put your hands to; and He will bless you in the land which the L-rd your G-d gives to you.”
Q. Why does the Torah use the expression “with you,” which implies that we are also a partner (“with you”) in the blessing. It should have said, “The L-rd will command His blessing to you, or upon you, etc.”
A. From this our sages derive an important lesson. G-d’s blessing is like the blessing of rain. Without rain there is no growth in the field. However, rain is a blessing only when the farmer does his part in preparing the field and planting the seeds. If he doesn’t do his part, then the rain is a waste.
The same goes for G-d’s blessings. We also have to do our part, which is the observance of G-d’s commandments. This is the meaning of, “The L-rd will command the blessings with you!” It is up to us. It is through our efforts that G-d’s blessings become productive and fruitful.
The following episode explains it. For many years the same customer visited a certain Jewish restaurant and, without fail, always ordered a plate of chicken soup. In all that time he never once complained about the food or the service. One evening, after being served his customary bowl of chicken soup, he called the waiter back to the table.
”Waiter, taste this soup!” “Why, what’s the matter with it?” asked the waiter.
“Just taste it!”
“Look, if the soup is too cold or doesn't taste right, I’ll take it back and bring you another serving.”
“Just taste the soup!” insisted the client.”
“But why should I taste it? If you don’t want it, you don’t have to eat it. I’ll be happy to exchange it!”
The customer was now angry; “For the last time; TASTE THE SOUP!”
Intimidated, the waiter sat down. “OK, if you insist.” He looked around. “Where’s the spoon?”
“Ah-Hah!” exploded the patron.
The mitzvot we perform, especially the mitzvah of Tzedakah (charity) are the seeds and the spoon which we need to supply in order to benefit from the blessings which G-d sends our way.
HAVE A VERY GOOD, HAPPY, HEALTHY & SUCCESSFUL DAY & SHANA TOVA
UNITED WE STAND WITH OUR BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN CAPTIVITY. MAY THEY ALL BE RELEASED NOW