VA’ETCHANAN – THE UNIVERSAL MESSAGE OF DIVINE ONENESS

בס”ד

In this week’s Torah portion, Moses delivers a foundational declaration of faith, the Shema:

“Hear, O Israel: Hashem our G-d, Hashem is One.” (Deuteronomy 6:4)

The Shema demands that we love the Creator with all our heart, soul, and might. Is there any universal massage from this verse that is relevant to every human being?

We often fall into the trap of viewing creation as a past historical event, something that G-d built, and left to run on its own. The Torah’s proclamation of Divine Oneness, as explained in Sha’ar HaYichud VeHa’Emunah, dispels this illusion. Creation is a continuous, dynamic process. The universe does not possess independent existence; rather, Divine energy flows continuously into the world at every single second, sustaining and renewing all matter (Sha’ar HaYichud VeHa’Emunah). The very existence, the next breath, and the beating of the heart are being actively recreated by the Almighty right now.

When a Noahide contemplates this truth, it sparks a profound sense of gratitude. One realizes that he is receiving a fresh gift of life at every moment. This awareness should transform a person’s inner world, giving room for igniting love and awe for the Creator .
The Shema demands that we love the Creator with all our heart, soul, and might. Achieving true love and reverence for G-d is the result of deep cognitive reflection.

By study and contemplation, one comes to perceive some of G-d’s absolute greatness and infinite uniqueness—a Oneness unlike any human concept of unity. Through contemplation, love naturally grows as one recognizes the Creator as the Source of life, while awe arises from reflecting on His infinite greatness that fills both the physical and spiritual realms.

Noahides are not obligated to recite the Shema daily, but the truths expressed in the verse belong to all humanity. Serving G-d is done in a higher manner and with true intention when a person has love and reverence for the Creator, so one should strive for this. The foundation for a Noahide is the faithful observance of the Seven Commandments. At the same time, a Noahide who aspires to a higher spiritual level is invited to study and contemplate knowing the Creator, loving Him, and developing awe of Him. One who does so stands on a significantly higher level. However, even without reaching this level, observing the Seven Commandments with faith and devotion is sufficient to be a righteous Noahide and to earn a place in the World to Come.

These concepts can shape how we begin each day. Waking up with the awareness that the Creator is renewing our existence at every moment fills the day with purpose and joy. May we all merit to live with the recognition that our life is His constant gift, and that our mission is to make this world a dwelling place for His Presence.

By Rabbi Moshe Bernstein

Sources:

Deuteronomy 6:4-9. The Divine Code part 1 chapter 6. Tanya Sha’ar HaYichud VeHa’Emunah chapter 1-3 . Rambam, Kings 8:11. Likkuti Sichot, Part 27, page 246: A Noahide should engage in the knowledge of the Creator.

If you want more questions for contemplation, SEE THE OTHER BLOGS FROM RABBI MOSHE BERNSTEIN