Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 11:15 mean?
A: This verse is part of the Torah's promise that if the Jewish people follow Hashem's commandments, He will provide grass in their fields for their livestock, ensuring they have enough food to eat and be satisfied. It emphasizes the connection between observing mitzvot (commandments) and receiving sustenance from the land.
Q: Why is Deuteronomy 11:15 important?
A: This verse is important because it highlights the principle of Divine reward for keeping the Torah's commandments. Rashi explains that this blessing is conditional—grass will grow abundantly only when the Jewish people are faithful to Hashem. It teaches us that our material well-being is directly tied to our spiritual commitment.
Q: What can we learn from Deuteronomy 11:15 today?
A: We learn that Hashem provides for our needs when we follow His ways. The Rambam (Hilchot Teshuva 9:1) teaches that blessings like these are part of the natural order when we align ourselves with Torah. Today, this reminds us to recognize Hashem's hand in our sustenance and to strengthen our mitzvah observance.
Q: Does Deuteronomy 11:15 only apply to farmers and cattle owners?
A: While the verse speaks directly about grass for cattle, the Midrash (Sifrei) explains that it symbolizes broader Divine providence. Just as Hashem provides for livestock, He provides for all our needs when we are faithful to Him. The principle applies to everyone, not just farmers.
Q: How does this verse connect to prayer?
A: The Talmud (Berachot 35b) connects this verse to the second blessing of Birkat Hamazon (Grace After Meals), which thanks Hashem for sustaining all living things. It reminds us that even when we work for our food, it is ultimately Hashem who provides, and we must express gratitude through prayer.
Context in the Torah
The verse appears in Devarim (Deuteronomy) 11:15, within the second paragraph of the Shema, which discusses the rewards for observing the mitzvot. Rashi explains that this promise follows the mitzvah of loving Hashem and serving Him with all one's heart (Devarim 11:13). The grass for the cattle symbolizes material sustenance, ensuring that both humans and their livestock will thrive when they adhere to Torah.
Divine Providence in Sustenance
Rambam (Hilchot Teshuva 9:1) teaches that Hashem provides sustenance as part of a reciprocal relationship—when Bnei Yisrael fulfill His will, He blesses their material needs. The phrase "וְנָתַתִּי עֵשֶׂב בְּשָׂדְךָ" ("I will send grass in thy fields") emphasizes that this bounty is a direct gift from Hashem, not merely a natural occurrence. The Sforno adds that this blessing ensures the land’s productivity without excessive human toil.
The Connection Between Cattle and Human Sustenance
The Talmud (Berachot 40a) notes that cattle are mentioned before human satiation ("לִבְהֶמְתֶּךָ וְאָכַלְתָּ") to teach that one’s livelihood is often dependent on the well-being of their possessions. The Midrash Tanchuma (Eikev 1) expands on this, stating that when animals are nourished, their owners benefit indirectly, as healthy livestock enable agricultural work and economic stability.
Spiritual and Physical Satisfaction
The conclusion of the verse—"וְשָׂבָעְתָּ" ("and be full")—is interpreted by the Kli Yakar as encompassing both physical and spiritual satisfaction. True satiation comes not only from abundance but from recognizing Hashem’s hand in providing it. The Or HaChaim further explains that this fullness is a state of gratitude, where one’s material blessings lead to greater devotion to Torah and mitzvot.