Parashat Haazinu

Parasha Thoughts

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By Rabbi Yitzchak Ariel

In a song as part of his final speech to the Jewish people, Moshe Rabbenu compares the holy Torah to rain and dew, as he says: “My taking (the Torah) shall drip like dew; my word shall flow like rain.” The comparison seems to be pretty simple. Just as rain and dew are necessary for the existence and continuity of this world, so too the Torah is necessary for the existence of this world.

The commentaries however point out a more profound idea. Rain and dew both share a common function in that they bring out the potential of the soil and together nourish the plants and vegetation. The rain will be much more constructive to soil that is soft and fertile than it will be to stiff and hard soil. Likewise, the Torah has a much stronger impact and effect on one who works on his character traits to mold himself into an upright person with good manners. Through Torah study that person can bring out his hidden potential and grow to unimaginable heights.

On the other hand, one who does not work on himself to attain proper manners is like the hard soil. Although Torah learning is notable for him as well, he will not receive the maximum benefit and powerful impact that the Torah can have on him as an individual. Furthermore, the commentaries continue to point out that just as rain requires patience as the results are not seen immediately, so too Torah study requires patience and persistence. May Hashem help us all achieve our true potentials and reap the benefits of our holy Torah.

Shabbat Shalom!

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