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
The story of Reuben gathering mandrakes (otherwise known as jasmine) during the wheat harvest echoes a central value for Noahides: the prohibition against theft. Reuben’s actions demonstrate a commitment to righteousness by avoiding even the appearance of taking what might belong to others. He carefully chose a time when leftover foliage from the harvest was considered ownerless, ensuring his actions were beyond reproach.
This theme of avoiding theft appears repeatedly in Genesis, from the destruction of the world during Noah’s time, where theft played a decisive role in G-d’s Judgment, to the shepherds of Lot who rationalized grazing their animals in others’ fields. The righteous, like Reuben, go beyond avoiding theft itself; they guard their thoughts and actions against rationalizations that could lead to dishonesty.
The Talmud teaches that many people fail in this area by justifying their actions with distorted reasoning, such as labeling personal expenses as business ones. Reuben’s example reminds us of the need for self-awareness and integrity. The language Rashi uses— “Reuben did not extend his hand to theft”—demonstrates a cognitive process of actively choosing to resist temptation, not just refraining from outward wrongdoing.
The mandrakes Reuben sought also carry symbolic meaning. The Sages associate mandrakes with the tension between good and evil, suggesting that even those who stray can ultimately return to G-d. Though theft, like all sins, can hinder repentance, nothing can prevent a person’s ultimate return to righteousness.
For Noahides, this lesson emphasizes the deep spiritual significance of living with integrity and avoiding theft, not only as an external action but as a reflection of inner honesty and dedication to G-d’s Will.
Now, reflect upon the following questions
- Why do you think theft is singled out in the Noahide laws as a foundational prohibition, and what does this teach about its impact on society and spirituality?
- Have you ever faced a situation where you justified taking something or acting dishonestly? What helped you recognize it and correct it?
- Reuben’s care to avoid theft emphasizes not just actions but intentions. How can we train ourselves to be more mindful of our thoughts and motivations?
- Why do you think theft is seen as a sin that can “harden” someone spiritually? How can avoiding even small dishonest acts protect us from greater moral failings?
- What does the symbolism of the mandrakes teach us about the possibility of repentance and returning to G-d, even after significant moral failings? How does this inspire hope in our spiritual journeys?
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
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