Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 10:15 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 10:15 teaches that Hashem (God) chose the Jewish people out of love for our ancestors (Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov) and continues to choose their descendants (the Jewish people) above all other nations. Rashi explains that this special relationship is eternal, 'as it is this day,' meaning it remains true in every generation.
Q: Why did Hashem choose the Jewish people?
A: According to traditional Jewish sources like the Midrash (Sifrei Devarim), Hashem chose the Jewish people not because they were inherently greater than other nations, but because of the merit of our forefathers (Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov) who demonstrated unwavering faith and devotion. The Rambam (Hilchot Teshuvah 3:5) also teaches that every Jew has the potential to connect to this divine choice through Torah and mitzvot.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jews today?
A: This verse reminds us that our relationship with Hashem is eternal and based on the covenant with our ancestors. The Talmud (Berachot 7a) teaches that this bond comes with responsibility—we must uphold Torah and mitzvot to merit this special connection. Today, this means living according to halacha (Jewish law) and striving for spiritual growth.
Q: What can we learn from 'He chose their seed after them'?
A: The phrase teaches that the Jewish people's special relationship with Hashem is passed down through generations. The Sforno explains that this choice is conditional—we must follow the ways of our forefathers in righteousness. The Meshech Chochmah adds that this inheritance includes both privileges and obligations to live as a holy nation.
Q: Why does the verse say 'as it is this day'?
A: Rashi explains that 'as it is this day' means Hashem's choice of the Jewish people is everlasting and unchanging. The Kli Yakar emphasizes that this applies in every era, including times of exile, proving that our bond with Hashem is not dependent on external circumstances but is an eternal covenant.
Understanding the Verse in Context
The verse (Devarim 10:15) emphasizes Hashem's unique love for the Avot (Patriarchs—Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov) and His subsequent choice of their descendants, Bnei Yisrael, as His treasured nation. This selection is not based on merit but on divine love and covenant, as highlighted in the phrase "רַק בַּאֲבֹתֶיךָ חָשַׁק ה'" ("Only the Lord took delight in thy fathers").
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that the word "חָשַׁק" (delight) denotes a deep, affectionate bond, as seen in its usage elsewhere (e.g., Shir HaShirim 7:7). Hashem's love for the Avot was not fleeting but enduring, extending to their descendants ("וַיִּבְחַר בְּזַרְעָם אַחֲרֵיהֶם"). Rashi further notes that this choice is eternal—"כַּיּוֹם הַזֶּה" ("as it is this day")—meaning that even when Bnei Yisrael falter, Hashem's covenant remains steadfast.
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchot Teshuvah (3:5), Rambam teaches that Hashem's love for the Avot is the foundation of His relationship with Klal Yisrael. This love ensures that even when the Jewish people sin, the merit of the Avot can bring divine compassion. The verse underscores that our status as the chosen people is rooted in this unbreakable bond.
Midrashic Insights
Theological Implications
The verse teaches that Jewish identity and divine favor are inseparable from the legacy of the Avot. The Meshech Chochmah (R' Meir Simcha of Dvinsk) notes that this selection imposes responsibility: just as the Avot lived with righteousness, their descendants must strive to emulate their ways. The phrase "כַּיּוֹם הַזֶּה" reminds us that this covenant is ever-present, demanding our ongoing commitment to Torah and mitzvot.