Torah Principles

The Torah describes the ceremony that took place on Mount Gerizim and Mount Eival. Half of the tribes stood on each mountain, with the Leviim shouting out the blessings on Mount Gerizim and the curses on Mount Eival. Upon enumerating the curses, the common factor of each warning, was that they referred to sins done in secret. This seemed to magnify Hashem’s intolerance with people who try to portray themselves one way, when in reality, they are highly hypocritical. There are recurring themes mentioned throughout the Torah. There is an emphasis on humility, and how Hashem has no place for the arrogant. Numerous laws in the Torah point out the importance of being honest and truthful in every situation. We are to stay away from שקר, falsehoods, and embrace the righteous, who are men of truth. Looking out for these lessons, helps keep us grounded. It reminds us of what is truly important, and what is not.