By Shalom Olensly
This week in the Torah:
Speaking of the reward for observing the Torah and the reprisal for doing the opposite, Moses addresses the Jews saying “You all stand [united] today….”
Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (founder and first leader of Chabad):
We read of the covenant between G-d and the People of Israel during this time of the year because Rosh Hashanah is similar; entering into a covenant with G-d.
Question:
What does “covenant” actually mean?
Preface:
Since G-d is Perfect Unity, nothing else existing but for Him, therefore, the prerequisite for entering into a covenant with G-d is for His People to stand united before Him. Unity is realized when we recognize that each and every person completes the other, like each limb of the body is one with the rest of the body, the health of the whole body depending on the unity amongst all its limbs.
Answer:
When two friends wish their friendship to endure forever and unconditionally – which is impossible as long as they relate to each other based on understanding alone, which is subject to change – they make a “covenant” with each other, a vow for eternal, unconditional love. This vow unites them together as one. Thereby, they will never find hatred toward the other, just as one does not ever find hatred to oneself.
Similarly:
Loving G-d can be dependant on one’s mindset and thereby is subject to change. This love is merely external, although vital. When one uncovers the deepest part of one’s heart and soul however, there lies a supra-rational bond with G-d – the uniting covenant – which is eternal.
Question:
How may one actualize this covenant?
Answer:
- a) By feeling contrite over past misdeeds which could make a person feel very distant from G-d. This hurt emerges from the depths of our hearts and souls, revealing the inner bond.
- b) Thereupon, one returns to G-d with a firm resolve to observe the Torah and its Mitzvos.
- c) This is symbolized and, in truth, actualized by hearing the Shofar blasts on Rosh Hashanah. Rosh Hashanah is the time, set by G-d, whence G-d draws Himself close to us to hear our pleas and accept the renewal of our covenant with Him. Thereupon, G-d inscribes and seals us into the Book of Life for a good and sweet year.
(Based on Likkutei Torah, Nitzavim)
