In this week’s Torah portion, Re’eh, we are presented with a profound test of our character and commitment to God. At the outset, Moses exhorts the people of Israel, saying, “See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil.” This stark choice is a constant theme throughout the Torah, and it is one that we must all grapple with in our own lives.
The blessings of life and good are contingent upon our obedience to God’s commandments. If we follow His laws, we will be rewarded with prosperity, health, and peace. However, if we choose the path of evil, we will incur His wrath and suffer the consequences. This is not an idle threat; it is a reality that we must all take seriously.
The choice between life and death is not always easy. There will be times when we are tempted to stray from God’s path. But we must remember that He is our guide and protector, and that by following His commandments, we are choosing the best path for ourselves. Let us all strive to live in accordance with God’s will, so that we may enjoy the blessings of life and good both now and in the world to come.
Re’eh 2025: A Call to Choose Life
A Path of Life and Blessing
Torah portion Re’eh 2025 emphasizes the profound choice that lies before us: the path of life and blessing. This path is not simply a distant ideal but a tangible reality that God offers to His people. To inherit the blessings promised to Abraham, Moses exhorts the Israelites to “choose life that you and your offspring may live.”
This choice involves embracing God’s commandments with unwavering obedience. By following His precepts, we open ourselves to a life filled with abundance, peace, and prosperity. However, the alternative is a path marked by curses and suffering. We must choose wisely, for the consequences of our decisions will reverberate throughout our lives and the lives of our descendants.
To aid us in this choice, God provides specific instructions and warnings. He outlines the blessings that will come to those who obey His commandments and the curses that will befall those who rebel against Him. This detailed guidance serves as a roadmap for our journey, helping us to navigate the path of life and avoid the pitfalls of disobedience.
The choice before us is not merely between good and evil but between life and death. God desires our wellbeing and has given us the means to achieve it. By choosing life, we embrace not only temporal prosperity but also eternal purpose and fulfillment. It is a choice that will shape our destinies for generations to come.
| Blessings | Curses |
|---|---|
| Abundant harvests | Crop failures |
| Prosperity and wealth | Poverty and famine |
| Peace and tranquility | War and oppression |
| Long life and health | Premature death and disease |
Seeing God’s Call in the Everyday
The Torah portion Reei, which we will read in 2025, challenges us to see God’s presence in the everyday moments of our lives. It teaches us that our actions, even the simplest ones, have a profound impact on our relationship with God and with others.
Living a Life of Compassion and Justice
One of the most important ways we can see God’s call in the everyday is by living a life of compassion and justice. The Torah commands us to love our neighbors as ourselves, and to treat all people with dignity and respect. This means reaching out to the poor and needy, standing up for the oppressed, and working to create a more just and equitable world.
| Examples of Living a Life of Compassion and Justice |
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When we live a life of compassion and justice, we are not only helping others; we are also drawing closer to God. God is the source of all compassion and justice, and when we reflect these qualities in our own lives, we are reflecting God’s image.
The Power of Choice: Blessings or Curses
The Torah portion of Re’eh presents us with a profound choice: to follow God’s commandments and receive blessings, or to stray from His path and face curses. This potent decision shapes our destiny, impacting not only our present lives but also the generations to come.
Blessings for Obedience
If we choose to obey God’s commands, we can expect a multitude of blessings: abundant harvests, fruitful livestock, success in battle, and divine protection. These blessings extend not only to individuals but also to the entire nation of Israel. By adhering to God’s laws, we strengthen our covenant with Him and secure a prosperous and fulfilling life.
Curses for Disobedience
However, if we turn away from God’s commandments, we risk incurring severe curses. These curses include: crop failure, disease, defeat in battle, exile, and poverty. They serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience to the divine will. By rejecting God’s guidance, we invite hardship and suffering into our lives.
Three Levels of Curses
The Torah distinguishes between three levels of curses based on the severity of the transgression:
| Level | Description |
|---|---|
| Mild | Involves minor inconveniences or setbacks. |
| Moderate | Causes significant difficulties and challenges. |
| Severe | Leads to devastation, exile, and death. |
Understanding the consequences of disobedience is crucial in making the right choice. By carefully considering the blessings and curses outlined in this Torah portion, we can make informed decisions that align with God’s will and ensure a life filled with prosperity and divine favor.
Obedience and Its Rewards
Fulfillment of Commandments
Obedience to God’s commands brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment. By adhering to His instructions, we demonstrate our love and submission, deepening our connection with Him.
Eternal Life
The ultimate reward for obedience is eternal life. The Torah promises that those who keep His commandments will inherit the land of Israel and experience eternal blessings.
Material Blessings
Besides spiritual benefits, obedience can also result in material blessings. God promises to provide for His people, bestowing upon them prosperity, health, and abundance.
Protection and Victory
Obedience also grants protection and victory. God pledges to fight for those who obey Him, shielding them from harm and leading them to triumph over their enemies.
| Command | Reward |
|---|---|
| Honoring parents | Long life |
| Keeping the Sabbath | Divine blessing |
| Tithing | Abundant harvest |
Uniting Faith and Action
The Torah portion of Re’ei, which will be read in 2025, emphasizes the vital connection between faith and action in our spiritual journey. Through the commandments and instructions given to the Israelites, the portion highlights the importance of not only believing in God but also translating that belief into tangible deeds.
Living by Faith
The portion begins by reminding the Israelites of their covenant with God, emphasizing the need for unwavering faith in Him. This faith is not merely an intellectual concept but a living force that should guide their thoughts, words, and actions.
Responding to God’s Love
In response to God’s abundant love and blessings, the Israelites are called to express their gratitude and devotion through obedience to His commandments. These commandments are not seen as arbitrary rules but as an expression of their love and commitment to God.
True Worship
True worship, according to Re’ei, involves more than just ritual observances. It encompasses a lifestyle characterized by justice, compassion, and ethical behavior. God desires not only sacrifices and prayers but also a genuine heart that seeks to follow His will.
Fruit of Faithfulness
The portion promises abundant blessings to those who remain faithful to God’s covenant. These blessings include prosperity, security, and divine protection. However, they are contingent upon the Israelites’ obedience and commitment to living a righteous life.
Table of Commandments
| Commandment |
|---|
| Love your neighbor as yourself |
| Do not murder |
| Do not commit adultery |
| Do not steal |
| Do not bear false witness |
The Importance of Torah Study
The Torah is the foundation of the Jewish faith, and its study is essential for understanding the Jewish world experience. The Torah is a rich Tapestry of stories, laws, and teachings, reflecting the diverse aspects of Jewish life and thought. Studying the Torah can help us connect with our heritage, learn from the wisdom of our ancestors, and deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
The Torah as a Source of Knowledge:
The Torah is a vast body of knowledge, encompassing history, laws, ethics, and theology. By studying the Torah, we can gain a better understanding of the world around us and our place within it. The Torah provides guidance on how to live a good life, how to relate to others, and how to make decisions. It also contains insights into the nature of God, the meaning of life, and the purpose of the universe.
The Torah as a Source of Inspiration:
The Torah is not only a source of knowledge but also a source of inspiration. The stories of the Torah are filled with examples of courage, perseverance, and hope. They can inspire us to overcome challenges, live with integrity, and strive for greatness. The Torah teaches us to care for the poor, to help the oppressed, and to strive to make the world a better place.
The Torah as a Source of Community:
The Torah is not just a book for individuals; it is also a book for the community. The Torah provides a common set of beliefs and values that bind the Jewish people together. It is a source of unity and identity, and it helps us to feel connected to a larger purpose.
The Torah as a Source of Spiritual Growth:
The Torah is a source of spiritual growth. It teaches us about the importance of prayer, meditation, and gratitude. It helps us to develop our relationship with God and to live in harmony with the divine. The Torah also provides us with a framework for ethical and moral decision-making, helping us to grow into better people.
The Torah as a Personal Journey:
The Torah is not just a book to be read; it is also a book to be lived. It is a journey of discovery, self-reflection, and growth. Studying the Torah can help us to understand ourselves more deeply, to develop our talents, and to live a more meaningful life. The Torah is a gift, a treasure, and a source of endless wisdom and inspiration.
Practical Ways to Study Torah:
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Daily Torah Reading | Reading a portion of the Torah each day |
| Weekly Torah Study | Dedicating a specific time each week to studying the Torah |
| Torah Classes | Attending organized Torah classes led by a rabbi or teacher |
| Torah Commentary | Using written commentary to supplement Torah study |
| Torah Meditation | Reflecting on Torah passages and applying them to personal life |
| Torah Discussion | Engaging in discussions about Torah with others |
The Eternal Covenant
The Torah portion Reeh for 2025 emphasizes the importance of the covenant between God and His people. This covenant, based on the Ten Commandments, outlines the principles and obligations that define the relationship between God and Israel.
Number Seven
The number seven holds significant symbolism throughout the Torah portion. It appears in various contexts, representing completeness, perfection, and God’s divine order:
| Occurrence | Significance |
|---|---|
| Seven days of creation | Completeness of God’s work |
| Seven times the Israelites marched around Jericho | Conquest and triumph over obstacles |
| Seven years of remission of debts | Social justice and restoring balances |
| Seven species of produce in the Land of Israel | Abundance and blessing |
| Seven pahallim (assistants) in the tabernacle | Service and dedication to God |
| Seven branches of the menorah | Light and divine guidance |
| Seven offerings on Yom Kippur | Atonement and purification |
| Seven days of Sukkot | Joy, thanksgiving, and dwelling with God |
Re’eh 2025: A Time for Reflection and Renewal
Torah Portion Re’eh: An Overview
Re’eh is the 47th weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading. It is comprised of Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17, and its name means “See” in Hebrew.
Key Themes of Re’eh
Mitzvot and Blessings
Re’eh outlines the blessings and curses associated with observing or neglecting the commandments (mitzvot). It emphasizes the importance of obedience and the rewards that come with it.
Charity and Justice
The portion stresses the obligation to provide for the needy and act justly towards others. It exhorts us to be compassionate, fair, and generous.
Promises and Warnings
Re’eh contains both promises of God’s favor for adherence to the commandments and warnings of the consequences of disobedience. It reminds us of the importance of choice and accountability.
Blessings for the Land
The portion includes specific blessings related to the land of Israel, emphasizing its importance and God’s covenant with the Jewish people.
Festival Observances
Re’eh outlines the requirements and significance of the three pilgrimage festivals: Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot. These festivals serve as opportunities for reflection, celebration, and connection with God.
Priestly Duties
The portion discusses the roles and responsibilities of the priests, including their role in offering sacrifices and teaching the Torah.
The Year of the Shemittah
Re’eh introduces the concept of the Shemittah year, a sabbatical year every seven years when agricultural labor is prohibited and the land is left fallow. It emphasizes the importance of rest and renewal.
The Year of Jubilee
The portion concludes with the concept of the Jubilee year, which occurs every 50 years. It involves the release of debts, the return of property to its original owners, and the restoration of social equality.
Blessings and Curses of Re’eh
| Blessing | Curse |
|---|---|
| Obedience to the commandments | Neglect of the commandments |
| Abundance of rainfall | Drought |
| Victory in battle | Defeat in battle |
| Prosperity and peace | Adversity and war |
| God’s favor | God’s wrath |
The Significance of the High Holidays in Re’eh
The Torah portion Re’eh encompasses the Jewish High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot. These holidays hold profound significance in Jewish tradition and symbolize important spiritual and communal experiences.
Rosh Hashanah: The Day of Judgment
Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the High Holidays and is a day of judgment. It is believed that God reviews the deeds of each person and determines their fate for the coming year.
Yom Kippur: The Day of Atonement
Yom Kippur is a day of fasting, prayer, and repentance. It is the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, and it is a time for individuals to seek forgiveness for their sins and reconnect with God.
Sukkot: The Feast of Tabernacles
Sukkot is a seven-day festival that commemorates the Israelites’ journey in the wilderness and their dependence on God. It is celebrated by constructing temporary shelters called sukkot and by participating in festive gatherings.
Interrelation of the High Holidays
The High Holidays are interconnected and form a spiritual journey that emphasizes introspection, repentance, and renewal. Rosh Hashanah sets the tone for the season of repentance, while Yom Kippur provides the opportunity for atonement. Sukkot concludes the High Holidays and symbolizes the renewal of the relationship between God and the Jewish people.
The Central Themes of Re’eh
In addition to the High Holidays, the Torah portion Re’eh also emphasizes the following themes:
The Importance of Obedience
Re’eh stresses the importance of obeying God’s commandments. By following God’s laws, the Israelites would experience blessings and avoid curses.
The Choice between Good and Evil
The portion also presents the concept of free choice. The Israelites had the power to choose between righteousness and wickedness, and their actions would have consequences.
The Blessings and Curses
Re’eh outlines the consequences of obedience and disobedience. Those who obeyed God’s commands would receive blessings, while those who rebelled would face curses.
The High Holy Days in a Nutshell
| Holiday | Significance |
|---|---|
| Rosh Hashanah | Day of Judgment |
| Yom Kippur | Day of Atonement |
| Sukkot | Feast of Tabernacles |
Re’eh 2025: A Call to Rededication
Live by the Covenant
The central theme of Re’eh is the importance of living in accordance with the covenant God made with Israel. This involves observing the commandments, worshipping God alone, and avoiding idolatry.
Blessings and Curses
The portion presents a series of blessings and curses that will result from Israel’s obedience or disobedience to the covenant. The blessings include prosperity, peace, and God’s protection. The curses include famine, war, and exile.
Heart Circumcision
God calls on Israel to circumcise their hearts, meaning to remove the impurities and stubborness that prevent them from fully following His ways. This circumcision is not physical but spiritual.
Seeking God
The portion emphasizes the importance of seeking God and His presence. This involves studying the Torah, praying, and seeking guidance from wise teachers.
The Choice
God presents Israel with a choice: life and prosperity, or death and adversity. The Israelites are urged to choose life by obeying the covenant.
Idolatry Warning
Re’eh strongly condemns idolatry and warns against the dangers of worshipping false gods. God demands exclusive worship and forbids any form of idolatry.
The Importance of Education
The portion places great emphasis on educating the younger generation about God’s commandments. Parents and teachers are instructed to teach the children about God’s ways from a young age.
The Festivals: Part 1
Re’eh discusses three of the three pilgrimage festivals observed by the Israelites: Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot. These festivals commemorate God’s deliverance from Egypt and Israel’s covenant with Him.
The Festivals: Part 2
The portion provides details about the offerings and sacrifices associated with each festival. It also highlights the importance of joy and celebration during these occasions.
Social Justice
Re’eh includes several commandments related to social justice, such as providing for the poor, the widow, and the orphan. God emphasizes the need for compassion and righteousness in society.
Reei: The Importance of Following God’s Commandments
The Torah portion Reei, which is read this week, emphasizes the paramount importance of obeying God’s commandments. It reminds us that following these divine instructions is not merely a matter of ritual observance but an essential aspect of our relationship with God and our fellow human beings.
The portion begins with a powerful exhortation: “Hear, O Israel, the statutes and the judgments which I speak in your ears this day, that you may learn them and keep and do them” (Deuteronomy 11:1). These words underscore the responsibility that rests upon us as God’s chosen people to know, understand, and live by His commandments.
Throughout the portion, we are presented with a wide range of laws and regulations that govern every aspect of our lives, from our personal conduct to our social and religious practices. These commandments serve as a roadmap for righteous living, guiding us toward a life of holiness and blessing.
People Also Ask:
What are the main teachings of the Torah portion Reei?
The Torah portion Reei emphasizes the importance of following God’s commandments, as they are a roadmap for righteous living. These commandments include instructions for personal conduct, social interactions, and religious observances.
What is the significance of the word “reei” in this portion?
The Hebrew word “reei” means “see” or “behold.” This portion is named “Reei” because it urges us to “see” and “behold” the commandments of God, recognizing their importance and striving to live by them.
How can we apply the teachings of Reei to our daily lives?
To apply the teachings of Reei to our daily lives, we should strive to study and understand God’s commandments, and to incorporate them into our actions and decisions. This will help us to live a life of righteousness and blessing, and to fulfill our purpose as God’s chosen people.
