Mitzvot Just For Practice

One of the themes of the Book of Devarim is that the Mitzvot were meant to be observed in the Land. On numerous occasions, we find this reference that the word, בארץ, “in the land,” is mentioned over and over again.

The Sifrei makes this point so strongly that he writes that the only reason the Mitzvot are observed outside of Eretz Yisrael, is for practice. “Be excellent in the observance of Mitzvot, that they should serve as markers for you to find your way back.”

This is similar to someone on a long hike. He makes markers along the way, so that he will be able to retrace his steps, and be able to return to his original destination.

The same is true of the Torah. The original destination is Israel. This is the intended location where Mitzvot are observed. It is unnatural for a Jew to be outside of his natural domain.

One must also take into account that there are numerous commandments that can only be observed in the Land of Israel.

Some say that this was the main reason that Moshe Rabbeinu longed to enter Eretz Yisrael. He did not wish to be deprived of the possibility of observing the entire Torah.

We need to get back to the basic principles of Judaism. One of these principles is the central role that Eretz Yisrael plays in Jewish life. The three pillars of Am Yisrael, Torah Yisrael, and Eretz Yisrael, work hand in hand. This is why Mitzvot outside of Israel are just for practice.