Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 28:60 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 28:60 warns that if the Jewish people do not follow Hashem's commandments, they may suffer from the same diseases that afflicted Egypt, which they had feared. Rashi explains that this refers to the plagues and illnesses that the Egyptians endured, serving as a consequence for disobedience to the Torah.
Q: Why is this verse important in Judaism?
A: This verse is important because it emphasizes the principle of reward and punishment in the Torah. The Rambam (Maimonides) teaches that suffering can sometimes be a wake-up call to return to mitzvot (commandments). It reminds us that our actions have consequences, both spiritually and physically.
Q: What can we learn from Deuteronomy 28:60 today?
A: We learn that maintaining a strong commitment to Torah and mitzvot is essential for spiritual and physical well-being. The Talmud (Berachot 5a) discusses how suffering can prompt self-reflection and teshuvah (repentance). This verse encourages us to examine our deeds and strengthen our connection to Hashem.
Q: How does this verse apply to modern Jewish life?
A: The verse serves as a timeless reminder that neglecting Torah values can lead to negative consequences. The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim) teaches that clinging to mitzvot protects us from harm. Today, this encourages Jews to prioritize Torah study, prayer, and acts of kindness to merit divine protection.
Q: What does 'they shall cleave to you' mean in this verse?
A: The phrase 'they shall cleave to you' means that the consequences of straying from Torah will persistently affect a person until they correct their ways. The Talmud (Yoma 86a) explains that some hardships are meant to inspire teshuvah (repentance), reinforcing the idea that returning to Hashem brings healing.
Context in the Torah
The verse (Devarim 28:60) appears in the Tochacha (the Admonition), where Moshe warns Bnei Yisrael of the consequences of straying from the mitzvos. The phrase refers to the potential affliction of diseases similar to those experienced in Mitzrayim (Egypt) as a divine consequence for disobedience.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that "כָּל־מַדְוֵה מִצְרַיִם" refers to the plagues and illnesses that afflicted the Egyptians, which Bnei Yisrael feared during their time in exile. He emphasizes that these afflictions would "cleave" (וְדָבְקוּ בָּךְ) persistently, indicating prolonged suffering as a result of abandoning the Torah.
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchos Teshuvah (9:1), the Rambam teaches that suffering and illness are often divine mechanisms to awaken a person to repentance. The mention of Egyptian diseases serves as a reminder that just as Hashem punished Mitzrayim for their cruelty, He may bring similar afflictions upon those who forsake His commandments.
Midrashic Interpretation
The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah 7:4) elaborates that the diseases of Mitzrayim were particularly severe, and their return signifies a loss of the protective merit of the Avos (forefathers). When Bnei Yisrael sin, they become vulnerable to the same afflictions they were once shielded from.
Ibn Ezra's Insight
Ibn Ezra notes that the phrase "אֲשֶׁר יָגֹרְתָּ מִפְּנֵיהֶם" ("which you feared") implies that these diseases were a source of dread even before they materialized. This highlights the psychological torment accompanying physical suffering when one strays from Hashem’s will.
Practical Lesson