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Deuteronomy 1:14 - Israel accepts wise counsel

Deuteronomy 1:14 - דברים 1:14

Hebrew Text

וַתַּעֲנוּ אֹתִי וַתֹּאמְרוּ טוֹב־הַדָּבָר אֲשֶׁר־דִּבַּרְתָּ לַעֲשׂוֹת׃

English Translation

And you answered me, and said, The thing which thou hast spoken is good for us to do.

Transliteration

Va-ta'anu oti va-tomru tov-ha-davar asher-dibarta la'asot.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַֽתַּעֲנ֖וּ אֹתִ֑י וַתֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ טֽוֹב־הַדָּבָ֥ר אֲשֶׁר־דִּבַּ֖רְתָּ לַעֲשֽׂוֹת׃
וַֽתַּעֲנ֖וּ אֹתִ֑י וַתֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ טֽוֹב־הַדָּבָ֥ר אֲשֶׁר־דִּבַּ֖רְתָּ לַעֲשֽׂוֹת׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context in Devarim (Deuteronomy)

The verse (Devarim 1:14) appears in Moshe's recounting of the events at Har Sinai, where Bnei Yisrael accepted the responsibility of fulfilling the Torah. This response follows Moshe's instruction to appoint wise and understanding leaders to assist in judging the people (Devarim 1:13).

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi explains that Bnei Yisrael's response, "טוב הדבר אשר דברת לעשות" ("The thing which you have spoken is good for us to do"), demonstrates their willingness to accept Moshe's directive with humility and enthusiasm. They recognized the wisdom in delegating judicial authority to qualified leaders rather than burdening Moshe alone.

Ibn Ezra's Insight

Ibn Ezra emphasizes that the phrase "טוב הדבר" ("The thing is good") reflects the people's acknowledgment of Moshe's leadership and their trust in his judgment. Their agreement was not passive but an active affirmation of the necessity for an organized judicial system.

Midrashic Perspective

The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah 1:10) highlights this moment as a model of proper communal conduct. By agreeing to Moshe's proposal, Bnei Yisrael demonstrated:

  • Unity: They responded collectively, showing harmony in decision-making.
  • Respect for Authority: They affirmed Moshe's leadership without dissent.
  • Practical Wisdom: They understood the need for a scalable system of justice.

Rambam's Halachic View

Rambam (Hilchot Sanhedrin 1:1) derives from this verse the foundational principle that the appointment of judges is a communal obligation. The people's affirmation ("טוב הדבר") establishes that a functioning judicial system is not optional but essential for a Torah society.

Spiritual Lesson

The Sforno teaches that this episode illustrates the importance of קבלת עול מצוות (accepting the yoke of mitzvot) with a positive attitude. Bnei Yisrael's ready agreement ("טוב הדבר") serves as a model for how we should approach Torah obligations—with joy and recognition of their inherent goodness.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Deuteronomy 1:14 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 1:14 describes the response of the Israelites when Moshe (Moses) suggested appointing leaders to help govern the people. They agreed that it was a good idea, showing their acceptance of wise leadership. Rashi explains that this demonstrates the importance of shared responsibility in leadership and the value of delegation.
Q: Why is Deuteronomy 1:14 important?
A: This verse is important because it highlights the principle of mutual agreement and cooperation between leaders and the community. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 8a) teaches that proper governance requires the consent of the people, emphasizing that leadership should not be imposed but accepted willingly.
Q: What can we learn from Deuteronomy 1:14 today?
A: We learn the importance of constructive dialogue and accepting good advice. Just as the Israelites acknowledged Moshe's suggestion as beneficial, we should also be open to wise counsel in our communities. The Rambam (Hilchot Sanhedrin 2:7) discusses how leadership must be based on wisdom and the people's trust.
Q: How does Deuteronomy 1:14 apply to leadership in Jewish tradition?
A: This verse sets a precedent for how leadership should function in Jewish life—with transparency and communal approval. The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim) notes that Moshe consulted the people before appointing judges, teaching that leaders must earn the people's confidence through fairness and wisdom.