Two Minute Torah Podcast

Nitzavim 5772 by Rabbi Elyse Winick

Shalom, this is Rabbi Elyse Winick, Director of KOACH/College Outreach for The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. Welcome to KOACH's Two Minute Torah.

As we enter this week's Torah reading, we find ourselves standing on the verge, awaiting our entry into the promised land, receiving our final marching orders from God as we prepare for this momentous transition. Moses focuses our attention on the inclusiveness of the covenant into which we are entering - from tribal chiefs to lowly woodcutters and everyone in between.

And the covenant extends still further: "Not with you alone do I make this covenant and its sanctions, but with those who are with us this day before the Lord our God and with those who are not with us here this day." It's not hard to imagine that the gift of the Torah is meant to extend for generations. But it seems to me the message is still greater - the choices you make today make a difference for tomorrow. While we shouldn't be paralyzed with fear over the long term implications of the things we do, we still need to be cognizant of that butterfly effect. We are a part of an interconnected world, on both horizontal and vertical axes. As individuals, as communities, as institutions, we will ultimately reap what we sow.

Rav Binyamin Lau draws a powerful connection between the end of last week's parashah and the overwhelming burden of the Tokhekhah or rebuke. More than 50 verses of curses and threats, the consequences of our violation of the covenant. It would be more than understandable if we were bowed by that burden, weighed down by the anxiety and fear it generates. Instead, Moshe begins "You are standing here today." He uses a verb form which suggests a strong and upright posture, a word which is used as a counter to being bent over. The message is clear. You may stumble and fall, but you must keep your head high. Cast the light of your life from a place of pride and confidence, then all which follows, for you, for your children, for your children's children will be life affirming and lasting.

Our parashah reinforces that idea in its closing verses, reminding us to 'Choose Life!' , encouraging us to make affirmative choices which prepare for, strengthen and build the future. To do anything less is to violate that sacred trust, for all of us and for those who are not with us here this day. With the close of another year so close on the horizon, there couldn't be a more fitting message. Shabbat Shalom and Shanah Tovah.