Moshe’s Rebuke

The Book of Devarim is Moshe Rabbeinu’s farewell address to the Jewish people. It lasted thirty-seven days from the first day of Shevat, until his death on the seventh of Adar.

Much of the book, is a rebuke, warning the nation that if they do not stand strong in their observance of Mitzvot, they will be driven out of the good land that is Eretz Yisrael.

He reminds the people that despite their rebelliousness, he always interceded on their behalf. He made it clear that Israel had a special role to play among the nations, of all that was right and decent.

In essence, G-d, the Torah, and Israel are one. The world cannot exist without Israel and the Torah.

We must never forget our special calling, and the unique role we play in the world. We need to be focused at all times, and not waver.

If we let down our guard and believe that we can mingle and be just like the other nations, we fall. We need to appreciate how fortunate is our lot, that we are given the path of holiness and sanctity, while the rest of the world wanders aimlessly.

It is good to be part of עם ישראל, and there is no greater blessing than to live according to the Torah, and strive towards achieving closeness to Hashem. This is what gives us purpose and true contentment in this world.

This was the charge Moshe gave before his death. And his words of rebuke, were meant for all generations.