בס”ד
Integrating Torah into one’s life through reflection and conversation can be an incredibly fun and engaging experience. It’s a journey of discovery, where ancient wisdom and timeless teachings come to life in our daily experiences. Through reflection, we have the opportunity to dive deep into the rich tapestry of Torah, extracting profound insights and lessons that resonate with our modern lives. The joy lies in the ‘aha’ moments, those instances when a Torah verse or story suddenly connects with our personal challenges, aspirations, and values. And when we engage in conversations about Torah with others, it becomes an interactive exploration, where diverse perspectives and interpretations enhance our understanding. These dialogues often spark excitement and intellectual curiosity, making the learning process both enjoyable and fulfilling. Torah becomes a vibrant and dynamic part of our lives, offering not just guidance but also a source of endless fascination, connection, and growth.
NOTE: Don’t feel obligated to go through every source or answer all the questions—unless you want to. Even one source, or one question will give you plenty of material for discussion and meditation. Enjoy this!
Some thoughts from the parsha
In Deuteronomy 26:1-2, the Israelites are commanded to bring the first fruits (bikkurim) from their land to the Temple as an offering to G-d. This commandment symbolizes gratitude for G-d’s blessings and the recognition that He is the source of all life. The key word, reishit (meaning “beginning” or “first”), appears here and throughout the Torah, representing something that is foundational and primordial. In this context, reishit refers to the first fruits of the Seven Species that grow in Israel. As always, we must emphasize that the concept of bikkurim is not a practically applied mitzvah for Noahides, but its underlying spiritual concept can be a source of inspiration for their relationship with G-d.
The mitzvah of bikkurim has deep spiritual significance. It serves as a reminder that G-d is the Creator of the universe, and His Divine Wisdom (chochmah) permeates all aspects of existence. When a person brings the first fruits, they are symbolically acknowledging the Divine plan that governs the natural world. The connection between the first fruits and G-d’s creation is emphasized, as humans recognize G-d’s role as the ultimate source of sustenance.
The concept of reishit also appears in the word bechor (firstborn), linking the two ideas of being “first” and possessing a special status before G-d. The Jewish people are referred to as G-d’s “firstborn” and “His first fruits,” indicating their special relationship with the Creator. Conversely, Esau, who represents materialism and randomness, lost his firstborn status to Jacob in part because he rejected the Divine spark in creation, forfeiting his connection to G-d.
This dynamic is also seen in the contrast between Israel and Amalek (the progeny of Jacob and Esau respectively). Israel’s understanding of the world is that everything is imbued with Divine purpose, while Amalek represents a view of the world as random and meaningless. The two “firsts”—Israel as G-d’s firstborn and Amalek’s nihilism—are in spiritual conflict, with Israel destined for life and Amalek for destruction.
As Rosh Hashanah approaches, we are reminded of the power of repentance (teshuvah), which involves returning to our original, pure state. The act of teshuvah reflects the same concept of reishit—going back to the beginning in order to renew and refresh ourselves. This renewal applies not just to repentance, but to all aspects of life, as Rebbe Nachman of Breslov teaches that one must never become “old” spiritually. Instead, we should continually strive for a state of newness and growth, seeing every day as a fresh opportunity.
Now, reflect upon the following questions
- In what ways do you recognize the “first fruits” in your own life, and how do you express gratitude for the blessings you receive?
- How can you connect to the Divine wisdom present in the world around you, even in the midst of daily routines or scientific discoveries?
- What lessons can be drawn from the contrast between Israel’s belief in purpose and Amalek’s view of randomness, and how do these perspectives influence your understanding of life’s meaning?
- How does the idea of repentance as “returning” resonate with you, and why do you think it’s important to go back to a previous state to achieve renewal?
- Rebbe Nachman teaches that one should avoid becoming “old” spiritually. How can you apply this idea of constant renewal to different areas of your life, such as relationships, work, or spiritual practice?
Shabbat Shalom!
By Rabbi Tani Burton
If you want more questions for contemplation, SEE THE OTHER BLOGS FROM RABBI TANI BURTON ABOUT DE PARSHAT QUESTIONS
© Copyright, all rights reserved. If you enjoyed this article, we encourage you to distribute it further.
Our blogs may contain text/quotes/references/links that include copyright material of Mechon-Mamre.org, Aish.com, Sefaria.org, Chabad.org, and/or AskNoah.org, which we use in accordance with their policies.
