PARSHAT EEKEV – ONGOING STRUGGLE BETWEEN EVIL AND GOOD

בס”ד

The Torah portion of Eekev (Deuteronomy 7:12–11:25) emphasizes the rewards that come from observing G-d’s commandments and the importance of faithfulness to the covenant. In this portion, Moses reminds us of the blessings that will follow obedience to G-d’s laws, including prosperity, protection from enemies, and the establishment of a just society. However, it also warns against forgetting G-d and following other paths, such as idolatry, which would lead to downfall and destruction. We can notice that the warning against idolatry, the first Noahide commandment, appears many times, especially in the fifth book of the Torah.

With the word “Eekev,” which means heel, the Torah alludes to commandments that humans tend to ignore. In other words, the Torah warns us here to be careful, even with commandments that seem less important to us. Every commandment is part of the infinite will of G-d. And in the eyes of G-d, all His commands are equally important, because they are part of His essential will, which cannot be divided. Therefore, in our eyes, all of them should be completely equal. And we must observe all of them with joy and dedication.

Noahides and the Jewish people today stand firm in the face of global chaos and moral challenges. The ongoing spiritual battle between the forces of darkness and the forces of holiness in our world is at its peak. It points out that the current global turmoil—characterized by aggressive groups, violence, terror, and moral decay—reflects a deeper, spiritual struggle between impurity and sanctity. This is the core of the international conflict that is happening today. On the side of holiness and justice are the Noahides and the Jewish people, who together strive to uphold G-d’s will and bring about a more righteous world.

The fulfillment of a prophetic vision, where the world is fully rectified, evil is eradicated, and harmony prevails under the leadership of King Moshiach, comes along with the rebuilding of the Third Holy Temple. This ultimate redemption is the resolution of the ongoing battle between good and evil, bringing peace and spiritual wholeness to the entire creation. May it happen quickly in our days.

By Rabbi Moshe Bernstein

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