Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does the verse 'And you shall chase your enemies, and they shall fall before you by the sword' mean?
A: This verse, found in Leviticus 26:7, is part of the blessings promised to the Jewish people for keeping the Torah and mitzvot. According to Rashi and other traditional commentaries, it means that when the Jewish people are faithful to Hashem, their enemies will flee before them, and they will be victorious in battle. This is a promise of divine protection and success in times of conflict.
Q: Why is this verse important in Jewish tradition?
A: This verse is important because it highlights the reciprocal relationship between the Jewish people and Hashem. The Rambam explains that these blessings, including victory over enemies, are contingent upon observing the Torah. It serves as a reminder that spiritual faithfulness brings physical security and success, a theme echoed throughout Tanach and Jewish teachings.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jewish life today?
A: While we may not be engaged in physical battles today, the verse teaches a timeless lesson about the power of faith and mitzvah observance. The Midrash teaches that our 'enemies' can also refer to spiritual challenges. By staying committed to Torah values, we can overcome obstacles and negative influences in our lives, just as our ancestors triumphed over their physical enemies.
Q: Does this verse mean that Jews should always seek to fight their enemies?
A: No, the verse does not advocate unnecessary aggression. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 72a) teaches that war is only permitted under specific conditions, such as self-defense. This verse is a promise of divine assistance when conflict is unavoidable, not a call to constant warfare. Jewish law emphasizes the value of peace whenever possible.
Q: What can we learn from the phrase 'they shall fall before you by the sword'?
A: The phrase teaches that victory comes from Hashem's help, not merely human strength. As the Midrash explains, the 'sword' symbolizes divine judgment against those who oppose the Jewish people when they are following Torah. It reminds us that true success comes from righteousness, not military might alone.
Literal Interpretation (Peshat)
The verse (Vayikra 26:7) describes a promise of military success for Bnei Yisrael when they follow Hashem's commandments. Rashi explains that this refers to a miraculous victory where the enemies will flee in terror, and even a small number of Jews will be able to pursue and overcome a much larger force. The phrase "וְנָפְלוּ לִפְנֵיכֶם לֶחָרֶב" indicates that the enemies will fall by the sword, meaning they will be defeated in battle.
Spiritual Dimension (Derash)
The Midrash (Torat Kohanim 26:7) interprets this verse allegorically, suggesting that "your enemies" can also refer to the yetzer hara (evil inclination). When a person is spiritually strong, they can "chase away" their negative impulses. The "sword" symbolizes the power of Torah study, as stated in Mishlei (Proverbs 5:4): "The words of Torah are as sharp as a two-edged sword."
Halachic Perspective
Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 7:15) discusses the laws of war and explains that this verse applies specifically to milchemet mitzvah (obligatory wars). However, he emphasizes that victory ultimately depends on merit, not military strength alone. The Sifra (Behar, perek 2) adds that these blessings are conditional upon the Jewish people maintaining their covenant with Hashem.
Kabbalistic Insight
The Zohar (III 112a) interprets "your enemies" as referring to the forces of impurity in the spiritual realms. When Jews perform mitzvot properly, they create spiritual energy that weakens these negative forces, causing them to "fall before you." The "sword" represents the divine light that emanates from proper service of Hashem.
Practical Application