Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 14:24 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 14:24 discusses the mitzvah (commandment) of bringing ma'aser sheni (the second tithe) to the Beit HaMikdash (Holy Temple) in Jerusalem. If the journey is too difficult or the distance too great to carry the tithe, the verse permits converting it into money, which can then be brought to Jerusalem to purchase food and eat it there in holiness. This shows Hashem's compassion for His people, making the mitzvah accessible even when circumstances are challenging.
Q: Why is the place 'which Hashem will choose' mentioned in this verse?
A: The phrase 'the place which Hashem will choose' refers to Jerusalem, where the Beit HaMikdash (Holy Temple) was later established. This emphasizes the centrality of Jerusalem in Jewish worship and mitzvot. The Rambam (Hilchot Ma'aser Sheni 2:1) explains that this mitzvah could only be fulfilled when the Temple stood, highlighting the importance of Jerusalem as the spiritual center for the Jewish people.
Q: How does this verse apply today when there is no Beit HaMikdash?
A: Today, since the Beit HaMikdash is not standing, the mitzvah of ma'aser sheni in its original form does not apply. However, the principles behind it—such as gratitude for Hashem's blessings, supporting Torah scholars (as ma'aser sheni was also used for this purpose), and remembering Jerusalem—remain relevant. The Talmud (Sotah 48a) teaches that we should always yearn for the rebuilding of the Temple and the restoration of these mitzvot.
Q: What can we learn from the permission to convert the tithe into money?
A: This teaches us that Hashem considers human limitations and makes mitzvot achievable. Rashi explains that the Torah is showing kindness by not burdening someone with an impossible journey. This principle applies to other mitzvot as well—Judaism values practicality and compassion, ensuring that divine service remains within reach for everyone, regardless of circumstance.
Q: Why does the verse mention 'when Hashem blesses you'?
A: The phrase 'when Hashem blesses you' reminds us that the ability to bring tithes is itself a blessing. The Sforno explains that this mitzvah applies specifically when the land of Israel is fertile and producing abundance. It teaches gratitude—recognizing that our material success comes from Hashem and should be used for spiritual purposes, such as supporting the Temple service and those who serve there.
Context and Source
This verse appears in Devarim (Deuteronomy) 14:24, within the context of the mitzvah of bringing ma'aser sheni (the second tithe) to Yerushalayim. The Torah provides an alternative for those who live far from the Beit HaMikdash, allowing them to redeem the produce for money and bring the money instead.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Devarim 14:24) explains that the phrase "כי ירחק ממך המקום" ("because the place is too far from you") refers to the distance making it physically difficult to transport large quantities of produce. He emphasizes that this leniency is conditional upon "כי יברכך ה' אלקיך" ("when Hashem your G-d has blessed you")—meaning one may only redeem the produce if they have an abundance, making transport impractical.
Rambam's Halachic Perspective
In Hilchos Ma'aser Sheni (2:4), the Rambam codifies this law, stating that the primary mitzvah is to bring the actual produce to Yerushalayim. However, if the journey is burdensome due to distance or quantity, one may redeem it for money. This reflects the Torah's consideration for human limitations while maintaining the sanctity of the mitzvah.
Midrashic Insight
The Sifrei (Devarim 107) connects this verse to the broader theme of simcha (joy) in serving Hashem. The Torah does not want the mitzvah to become a source of distress; thus, it provides a practical alternative to ensure that fulfilling ma'aser sheni remains a joyous experience.
Key Lessons