No Hypcrosy

The Torah describes the ceremony that took place on the bottom of the mountains Gerizim and Eival. Six tribes stood on each mountain, with the Leviim at the bottom.

The Leviim recited certain curses for all to hear, as part of the covenant in accepting the Torah. There were twelve curses recited, and the nation answered Amen after each one.

What is interesting to note is that the twelve curses chosen, all have one thing in common. They speak of sins that are done in secret. They can be hidden from the general public, and they can still be perceived as good, upstanding citizens. This is the message of the curses that we not be hypocrites. What you see in public, is what we are in private.

This is why it is mentioned not to worship idols, mistreat our parents, taking bribes, misleading the blind, and certain immoral behavior.

One can try to hide sins like these from others, which is very deceiving. We must be a people of integrity and role models for the whole world. If our behavior in private is full of improper behavior, it will eventually be uncovered. The damage at that time will be immeasurable. This was the foundation of the covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people. We must be consistent honest people; on the inside and on the outside.