September 21, 2024 · י"ח אלול תשפ״ד
Parashat Ki Tavo · פרשת כי תבא
A PEEK AT THE PARSHA In Parshat Ki Tavo, we learn about important mitzvot that Bnei Yisrael followed when they entered Eretz Yisrael. First, Hashem tells them that when they harvest their crops, they should take the first fruits, bikkurim, and bring them to the Beit HaMikdash in Yerushalayim. There, they would give thanks to Hashem for the land He gave them and remember the journey from Egypt to freedom.
Next, Moshe describes a ceremony that will take place when they cross the Jordan River into Israel. They will take two sets of twelve large stones from the Yarden (Jordan River). One of the sets of stones will be placed in the river as a reminder of the great miracles that Bnei Yisrael experienced. On the other set of twelve stones, Moshe would write the entire Torah.
Then, Moshe Rabbeinu reminds Bnei Yisrael that they are special because Hashem chose them to be His Am Segulah: Treasured nation. He encourages them to keep all of Hashem’s mitzvot and then Hashem will raise them above all other nations to be a Holy nation for Hashem.
Then, six tribes will stand on Har (Mount) Gerizim, and six on Har Eival. The Levi’im will stand in the middle and call out brachot for those who follow Hashem’s Mitzvot and klalot (curses) for those who do not. These blessings and curses are meant to help Bnei Yisrael understand the importance of listening to Hashem’s Torah.
ONE BIG IDEA
At the end of the parsha, Moshe tells Bnei Yisrael about the wonderful blessings they will receive if they follow Hashem’s commandments. They will have plenty of food, success in everything they do, and live safely in Eretz Yisrael. But, if they don’t keep the mitzvot, they will experience hardships and suffering.
The mitzvah of Bikkurim, is when Jews bring the first fruits of the harvest to the Beit HaMikdash and thank Hashem for giving them the Land of Israel and for all the blessings they have received. Even though Bnei Yisrael worked hard to plant and grow the fruits, they still recognize that everything ultimately comes from Hashem, so they show gratitude by giving the first and best of what they have to Hashem. We, too, must express gratitude to Hashem for doing well in school, having good friends, or enjoying time with family. May we always appreciate Hashem’s gifts and use them to do mitzvot and help others!
Parshat Ki Tavo reminds us how important it is to always follow Hashem’s mitzvot and be grateful for everything He gives us!
TIMES - זמנים Candle-lighting: 6:37 pm Havdalah: 7:30pm allah: 5:25pm