Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 12:25 mean when it says 'Thou shalt not eat it'?
A: This verse refers to the prohibition against eating blood, as mentioned earlier in Deuteronomy 12:23-24. The Torah forbids consuming blood because it represents the life force (Leviticus 17:11). Rashi explains that this commandment teaches us to separate ourselves from barbaric practices and elevate our eating to a holy act.
Q: Why does the verse say keeping this commandment will make things go well for me and my children?
A: The Torah teaches that observing mitzvot (commandments) brings spiritual and material blessings. Rambam (Hilchot Ma'achalot Asurot) explains that the dietary laws protect our souls and refine our character. When we follow Hashem's will, as Rashi notes, we merit divine providence and goodness for ourselves and future generations.
Q: What does 'doing what is right in the sight of the Lord' mean in this verse?
A: This refers to fulfilling all of Torah's commandments with proper intention. The Sifrei (Devarim 75) explains that true righteousness means serving G-d sincerely, not just outwardly. As Rambam writes (Hilchot De'ot), we must train ourselves to desire what is truly good in Hashem's eyes, not just what seems good to us.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jewish life today?
A: This teaches us that kosher dietary laws remain eternally binding. The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah) details these laws, showing their contemporary relevance. The verse also reminds us that our actions affect future generations - as the Talmud (Yoma 38b) teaches, a parent's merit helps their children.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the connection between not eating blood and future reward?
A: The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim) teaches that every mitzvah creates spiritual merit. By restraining our physical desires (like not consuming blood), we elevate ourselves. The Talmud (Makot 23b) explains that the Torah promises both earthly and eternal reward for mitzvah observance, showing Hashem's kindness.
Context in the Torah
The verse (Devarim 12:25) appears in the context of the laws of kashrut and the prohibition against consuming blood. The Torah emphasizes that refraining from forbidden foods leads to spiritual and physical well-being for both the individual and future generations.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Devarim 12:25) explains that the phrase "לְמַעַן יִיטַב לְךָ" ("that it may go well with thee") refers to the reward in the World to Come (Olam Haba), as well as material blessings in this world. He connects this to the broader principle that mitzvot are given for our benefit, both spiritually and physically.
Rambam's Perspective
In Moreh Nevuchim (3:48), Rambam teaches that the dietary laws, including the prohibition against consuming blood, serve to refine a person’s character and distance them from cruelty. By avoiding blood—the symbol of life—we internalize reverence for life itself.
Talmudic and Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 65) codifies the strict prohibition against consuming blood, derived from this verse. The Rema adds that this mitzvah instills discipline and holiness in a person’s eating habits, elevating mundane acts into divine service.
Moral and Spiritual Lessons
The Sforno (Devarim 12:25) teaches that the phrase "כִּי־תַעֲשֶׂה הַיָּשָׁר" implies that true righteousness involves aligning one’s actions with divine will, not merely human logic. By adhering to Torah commandments—even those whose reasons are not fully understood—we demonstrate trust in Hashem’s wisdom.