share torah logo

Deuteronomy 8:5 - Divine fatherly love through discipline

Deuteronomy 8:5 - דברים 8:5

Hebrew Text

וְיָדַעְתָּ עִם־לְבָבֶךָ כִּי כַּאֲשֶׁר יְיַסֵּר אִישׁ אֶת־בְּנוֹ יְהוָה אֱלֹהֶיךָ מְיַסְּרֶךָּ׃

English Translation

Thou shalt also consider in thy heart, that, as a man chastens his son, so the Lord thy God chastens thee.

Transliteration

Veyadata im-levavecha ki ka'asher yeyaser ish et-beno Adonai Elohecha meyasreka.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְיָדַעְתָּ֖ עִם־לְבָבֶ֑ךָ כִּ֗י כַּאֲשֶׁ֨ר יְיַסֵּ֥ר אִישׁ֙ אֶת־בְּנ֔וֹ יְהֹוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֶ֖יךָ מְיַסְּרֶֽךָּ׃
וְיָדַעְתָּ֖ עִם־לְבָבֶ֑ךָ כִּ֗י כַּאֲשֶׁ֨ר יְיַסֵּ֥ר אִישׁ֙ אֶת־בְּנ֔וֹ יְהֹוָ֥ה אֱלֹהֶ֖יךָ מְיַסְּרֶֽךָּ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Understanding Divine Chastisement

The verse (Devarim 8:5) teaches that Hashem's discipline is an expression of love, akin to a father who corrects his child for their ultimate benefit. Rashi explains that just as a father chastises his son out of love to guide him toward proper behavior, so too does Hashem discipline Bnei Yisrael to lead them in the path of righteousness. This concept is rooted in the principle of yissurim shel ahavah (chastisements of love), as discussed in the Talmud (Berachos 5a).

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah 3:5) elaborates that Hashem's chastisements are purposeful and measured. Unlike human anger, which may be arbitrary, divine discipline is always for the sake of spiritual growth. The Rambam (Hilchos Ta'anit 1:1-3) further emphasizes that suffering should prompt introspection and teshuvah, as it is a means to draw closer to Hashem.

Key Lessons from the Verse

  • Parental Analogy: The comparison to a father-son relationship underscores that divine discipline is never punitive but corrective (Malbim).
  • Internal Reflection: The phrase "וְיָדַעְתָּ עִם־לְבָבֶךָ" ("thou shalt consider in thy heart") teaches that recognizing Hashem's hand in challenges requires deep contemplation (Sforno).
  • Purpose of Suffering: The Talmud (Chagigah 4b) states that suffering can atone for sins and purify the soul, aligning with the verse's message of divine care.

Practical Application

The Mesillas Yesharim (Chapter 1) applies this verse to the concept of hashgacha pratis (divine providence), urging one to perceive hardships as opportunities for spiritual refinement. By internalizing this mindset, a Jew can face trials with faith, trusting in Hashem's benevolent guidance.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Berakhot 5a
The verse is cited in the context of discussing suffering and divine chastisement, illustrating how God's discipline is akin to a father's love for his son.
📖 Sanhedrin 101b
Referenced in a discussion about the nature of divine punishment and the concept that suffering can be a form of divine mercy and correction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Deuteronomy 8:5 mean when it says God chastens us like a father chastens his son?
A: This verse teaches that just as a loving father disciplines his child for their ultimate good, so too does Hashem guide us through challenges and difficulties to help us grow spiritually. Rashi explains that this is a sign of God's love, as He corrects us to lead us on the right path (Mishlei 3:12).
Q: Why is it important to view hardships as Divine discipline?
A: The Rambam (Hilchos Ta'anis 1:1-3) teaches that recognizing hardships as Divine discipline helps us reflect on our actions and return to Hashem. The Talmud (Berachos 5a) states that suffering can be an atonement and an opportunity for spiritual growth when accepted with love.
Q: How can we apply the message of Deuteronomy 8:5 in daily life?
A: When facing difficulties, we should remember that Hashem acts out of love, like a caring parent. The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah 3:6) compares this to a father who trains his son in Torah and mitzvos. We should examine our ways, improve our actions, and trust in God's wisdom.
Q: Does this verse mean all suffering comes from God?
A: While this verse emphasizes that some challenges come from Hashem as loving discipline, Jewish tradition recognizes that suffering can have complex causes. The Talmud (Berachos 5b) discusses different types of suffering, some of which are tests of faith or opportunities for growth, not necessarily punishments.
Q: How does this concept of Divine discipline show God's relationship with the Jewish people?
A: The Sforno explains that this verse demonstrates the special bond between Hashem and Israel - just as a father is deeply invested in his child's development, so God is intimately involved in guiding His people. This reflects the covenant relationship established at Sinai.