Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean to 'fear the Lord thy God' in Deuteronomy 10:20?
A: In Orthodox Jewish tradition, 'fearing the Lord' (יראת ה') refers to a deep sense of awe and reverence for Hashem, recognizing His greatness and our responsibility to follow His commandments. The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 2:1-2) explains that this fear is the foundation of serving Hashem properly, leading us to avoid sin and fulfill mitzvos.
Q: Why does the verse say to 'hold fast' to Hashem?
A: The instruction to 'hold fast' (ודבקת בו) means to attach ourselves to Hashem by studying Torah, performing mitzvos, and emulating His ways. Rashi explains that this means we should cling to Torah scholars and their teachings, as they guide us in serving Hashem. The Talmud (Sotah 14a) also teaches that we emulate Hashem by acting with kindness and compassion, just as He does.
Q: When does Jewish law allow swearing by Hashem's name?
A: Swearing by Hashem's name (ובשמו תשבע) is only permitted in very specific, serious circumstances, such as in a Jewish court (Beis Din) when necessary for testimony. The Rambam (Hilchos Shevuos 5:1) warns against casual oaths, as taking Hashem's name in vain is a severe prohibition. Instead, we should strive to speak truthfully without needing oaths.
Q: How can we apply Deuteronomy 10:20 in daily life?
A: This verse teaches three key principles for Jewish living: 1) Cultivate awe of Hashem through prayer and mindfulness of His presence, 2) Serve Him through Torah study and mitzvah observance, and 3) Build a close relationship with Hashem by associating with righteous people and communities. The Sforno explains that these actions bring us closer to spiritual perfection.
Q: Why is serving Hashem connected to fearing Him in this verse?
A: The Torah links fear and service (את ה' אלהיך תירא, אותו תעבוד) because proper service of Hashem must stem from reverence. As the Talmud (Shabbos 31a) teaches, fear of Heaven is the prerequisite for true wisdom and mitzvah observance. The Mesillas Yesharim (Ch. 24) explains that fear prevents us from serving Hashem mechanically—it keeps our service sincere and mindful.
Fear of Hashem (יִרְאַת ה')
The verse begins with the commandment "אֶת־יְהוָה אֱלֹהֶיךָ תִּירָא" ("Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God"). Rashi (Devarim 10:20) explains that this refers to the fundamental obligation of yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven), which serves as the foundation for all mitzvot. The Rambam (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 2:1-2) elaborates that this fear involves awe and reverence for Hashem's greatness, leading one to refrain from sinning even when unobserved.
Service of Hashem (עֲבוֹדַת ה')
The next phrase, "אֹתוֹ תַעֲבֹד" ("Him shalt thou serve"), is interpreted by the Sifri (Devarim 11:13) as referring to Torah study and prayer, which constitute avodah (service) of the heart. The Talmud (Ta'anit 2a) emphasizes that prayer is the primary form of divine service in the absence of the Beit HaMikdash. Rambam (Hilchot Tefillah 1:1) codifies this as a biblical obligation derived from this verse.
Cleaving to Hashem (דְּבִיקוּת בַּה')
The command "וּבוֹ תִדְבָּק" ("and to Him shalt thou hold fast") is explained by Rashi as attaching oneself to Torah scholars and their ways. The Talmud (Ketubot 111b) expands on this, stating that cleaving to talmidei chachamim is considered as cleaving to the Divine Presence itself. Ramban (Devarim 11:22) adds that this includes emulating Hashem's attributes of kindness and mercy.
Swearing by His Name (שְׁבוּעָה בִּשְׁמוֹ)
The final clause "וּבִשְׁמוֹ תִּשָּׁבֵעַ" ("and swear by His name") is addressed by the Mechilta (Shemot 20:7), which teaches that permissible oaths must be truthful, necessary, and made with proper reverence. The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 203) details the halachic parameters of when and how one may swear by Hashem's name, emphasizing the gravity of such declarations.
Interconnection of the Mitzvot