Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean that Hashem will 'walk among us' in Leviticus 26:12?
A: Rashi explains that this means Hashem will dwell among the Jewish people in the Beis Hamikdash (Holy Temple) and walk with them in the Garden of Eden-like state when they keep the Torah. It signifies a close, intimate relationship where G-d's presence is felt in our midst.
Q: Why is the relationship described in Leviticus 26:12 important?
A: This verse describes the special covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people. The Rambam teaches that this bond is fundamental to our purpose - we become G-d's chosen nation when we follow His Torah, and in return, He becomes our protector and guide. This reciprocal relationship is central to Jewish belief.
Q: How can we apply Leviticus 26:12 to our lives today?
A: The Sforno explains that even without the Beis Hamikdash, we can make our homes and synagogues places where Hashem's presence dwells through Torah study, prayer, and mitzvah observance. By living according to Torah values, we maintain our end of this sacred relationship.
Q: What does it mean that 'you shall be My people' in this verse?
A: The Midrash (Sifra) teaches that this means the Jewish people accept upon themselves to serve Hashem exclusively. Just as a king's subjects are loyal to him, we commit to follow G-d's commandments and represent His will in the world, creating a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.
Q: Is the promise in Leviticus 26:12 conditional?
A: Yes, the Talmud (Bava Metzia 85b) explains that this promise, like all blessings in the Torah, depends on our observance of mitzvos. When we follow Hashem's ways, we merit this close relationship. The verses that follow outline both the rewards for observance and consequences for neglect of Torah.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Vayikra 26:12) interprets the phrase "וְהִתְהַלַּכְתִּי בְּתוֹכְכֶם" ("And I will walk among you") as a metaphor for Hashem's presence dwelling among Bnei Yisrael in a manner of companionship and closeness. He explains that this reflects a state of divine favor, where Hashem will "walk" with them in the Garden of Eden—a reference to the ideal relationship between Hashem and His people when they fulfill His commandments.
Rambam's Perspective
In Moreh Nevuchim (Guide for the Perplexed 1:54), Rambam discusses the concept of divine providence (השגחה פרטית) and explains that this verse signifies a unique relationship where Hashem guides and protects Klal Yisrael in a direct and personal manner. The phrase "וְהָיִיתִי לָכֶם לֵאלֹהִים" ("and will be your God") emphasizes the covenant (ברית) that binds Hashem to His people when they adhere to His Torah.
Midrashic Interpretation
The Sifra (Behar, Parsheta 2) elaborates on this verse, teaching that Hashem's presence ("Shechinah") dwells among Bnei Yisrael when they are united in righteousness. The Midrash emphasizes that this promise is conditional upon their observance of mitzvot, as stated in the preceding verses (Vayikra 26:3-11). The reciprocal relationship—"וְאַתֶּם תִּהְיוּ־לִי לְעָם" ("and you shall be My people")—highlights the mutual commitment between Hashem and Klal Yisrael.
Kabbalistic Insight
The Zohar (Vayikra 73a) interprets "וְהִתְהַלַּכְתִּי בְּתוֹכְכֶם" as an allusion to the indwelling of the Shechinah within each individual Jew when they sanctify themselves through Torah and mitzvot. This reflects the deeper mystical concept that divine energy permeates the world, particularly when the Jewish people live in accordance with Hashem's will.
Halachic Implications
The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 347) connects this verse to the mitzvah of sanctifying Hashem's name (קידוש השם), teaching that when Bnei Yisrael uphold their role as "עם ה'," they bring divine presence into the world. This reinforces the idea that Jewish identity and divine service are inseparable from the covenant.