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Nitzavim/Vayelech -
Fourth Aliyah |
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One final truth that underpins all the aspects of Covenant is this: following G-d's commands is our free choice. Until now, it was possible to see the covenant as a way of influencing the
Israelite's decisions (i.e., "Listen, or you will be punished!"). But Moses points out that the choice is "set before you" (30:15). Nitzavim lays out the consequences of following each path, not the "rewards" and "punishments" for doing so. G-d's plea to "Choose Life!" (30:19) is more the voice of a caring and concerned partner, than the stern demand of a forceful dictator. According to Rambam (Maimonides), Moses went from tribe to tribe, taking his leave of the people and preparing them for his imminent demise. He encourages them to trust in G-d who would lead them with Joshua in the conquest of the nations of Israel. They are instructed to fearlessly and faithfully carry out the commandment of conquering the Land and not to fear, as
G-d will be with them in future battles just as he had been with them in the battles against Sichon and Og.
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| Thoughts to Consider and Discuss |
1. Life vs. death, good vs. bad, and blessing Vs. curse (30:15,19) are the three descriptions of the alternatives G-d sets out. What are the differences and similarities among these three?
2. What tension exists in the text regarding the reason that Moses cannot lead them any longer (31:2)? How would resolve this?
3. Why is the conquest of the Land of Israel described here as a mitzvah (a divine commandment)? What is the religious meaning of this mission?
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"Every human being has freedom: if he wills to turn himself to the path of Good and to be a 'tzaddik' (righteous person) he holds it in his hands; if he wills to turn himself to the path of Evil and to be a 'rasha' (an evil person), he holds it in his hands... This is a fundamental principle and is the foundation of the Torah and of mitzvah, as it says, 'See that I set before you today Life... (30:15)."
Rambam (Maimonides), Book of Knowledge: Laws of Teshuvah (5:1,3)
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Why must free will be such a fundamental principle?
Why would the lack of free will make a covenantal relationship
with G-d impossible?
How can we want the best for loved ones, yet respect them enough to give them the room to make their own decisions
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