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Parshat Re’eh

By: SFW Students & Alumna
Chavi Barr, SFW ’04-‘05

A recurring theme in this week’s Parsha is that of being misamayach the Levi. The first time this is mentioned is in conjunction with the settling of the land. After Bnai Yisrael have established their homes in their land, they are obligated to travel to “the place which Hashem will choose” to bring their sacrifices and ma’asros and terumos.

The Ibn Ezra explains that the main reason for this mitzvah is the fact that Shevet Levi does not have a portion in the land, and it is the duty of the rest of Bnai Yisrael to support them. Therefore, we must include him as part of our family as we partake in celebrations, enjoying the bounty of the land. R’ Saadiah Gaon explains that this giving to the Levi is what brings about the joy which we are commanded to feel.

We are reminded of this duty, to give and be happy, yet again in Pasuk 18. Here, Rashi explains that if we cannot provide the Levi with the ma’aser due to him, we should give him ma’aser ani. If that too is not a possibility, then we are required to give him from our own possessions. Rashi explains that the next pasuk, which reminds us not to forget about the Levi in our midst, comes to put a lo ta’aseh on the mitzvah, thereby adding additional stringencies.

In Perek 14, Pasuk 27 there is a third mention of our traveling to Hashem’s resting place along with our possessions and to be happy with them and to share this pleasure with the Levi. Here, the words Lo Ta’azvenu come to place an additional warning on the mitzvah.

What is the underlying message of the constant reference to and emphases placed on this mitzvah?

Rav Dessler states in Michtav MeEliyahu (Chelek 5), in the section of Simchas HaNitina, that through our giving to others, we focus our attention to the kindness which the Almighty has bestowed upon us. One understands that there is no end to the good that Hashem provides us with. This in turn will bring us to a level of Ahavas Hashem.

When we understand that all we have comes from Hashem, then we also understand that we lack nothing and are satisfied with what he have. This lesson is expressed in Pirkei Avos- Eizeh hu ashir? HaSameach B’chelko.

Through our giving to others we become happy, as we understand the source of our wealth and enjoy the lot we have been given in life. Furthermore, it brings us to a greater recognition and love for our creator. This message is what is trying to be expressed by the frequent reference and importance placed upon the providing for the Levi.

Shabbat Shalom.