My Weekly Drash (a mini D'var Torah) -- Nitzavim
Posted by Daniel M. Kimmel on September 9, 2009 | Tags: Nitzavim
This week's double portion of Nitzavim/Vayeleki has one of the most moving answers to those who think being an observant Jew is too complicated, "Surely, this Instruction which I enjoin upon you this day is not too baffling for you, nor is it beyond reach." (Deut. 30:11) The text goes on to say that the law is not in the heavens or across the seas. "No, the thing is very close to you, in your mouth and in your heart, to observe it." (30:14). Every Jew - from the patriarchs and Moses to you and I - falls short. However we are not asked for perfection but to try and change for the better. It's a lifetime process, but you don't get credit if you don't even start. This is the season to examine ourselves and see how we have fallen short, and to begin again the process of self-improvement.
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Daniel M. KimmelJoined: October 2, 2007 Daniel M. Kimmel is a Boston area film critic, lecturer and author. He does these weekly mini-lessons for the Mishkan Tefila Brotherhood's newsletter. You are free to use them for similar purposes. Divrei Torah (117) |
