The Torah, as we all well know, is multilayered. The rabbis have taught us that there are 70 facets to every piece of the written Torah. We are also aware that it is impossible to adequately convey every nuance and possible meaning that lies embedded in the Torah. Each word demands elucidation, commentary and explanation before we can gain any proper understanding of its message. The entire book of Devarim is itself an elucidation and explanation of the first four books of Moshe. This is why Devarim employs different words to describe those events and commandments that were mentioned earlier.
A prime example is the repetition in this week’s parsha of
the Ten Commandments revealed to Israel at Sinai: the text here differs
slightly from the wording recorded in the book of Shemot. The Talmud, in its
rendition of the Oral Law, states that these variants—such as the use of the
word shamor for the observance of Shabbat instead of zachor—indicate
that God uttered both words simultaneously, a feat that is beyond human
comprehension and ability. The Talmud means to show us that every possible
interpretation and layer of meaning in the Torah was delivered in one go at
Sinai. Only the Oral Law and the work of Torah commentators through the ages
has revealed these original strata of meaning for our study and practice.
The Talmud tells us that the eyes see and the heart then
desires. Guarding one’s eyes guards one’s heart as well. This example of the
Torah’s self-elucidation makes each lesson clear to all and challenges us to
apply it wisely in our own lives.
Shabbat shalom, Rabbi Berel Wein
For "Comfort and Contentment", Rabbi Wein's devar Torah on this parashah last year, click here.
