Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'before the Lord thy God' mean in Deuteronomy 15:20?
A: The phrase 'before the Lord thy God' refers to eating the sacrificial animal in the place designated by Hashem—specifically, the Beit HaMikdash (Holy Temple) in Jerusalem. This teaches that certain sacred meals must be eaten in a state of purity and with proper intention, as if standing in G-d's presence (Rashi, Deuteronomy 15:20).
Q: Why does the Torah specify eating the sacrifice 'year by year' in this verse?
A: The instruction to eat the sacrifice 'year by year' emphasizes the ongoing mitzvah (commandment) of bringing certain offerings, such as the Ma'aser Sheni (Second Tithe), to the Beit HaMikdash annually. This reinforces consistency in serving Hashem and recognizing His blessings (Rambam, Hilchot Ma'aser Sheni 2:1).
Q: What is the significance of eating the sacrifice with one's household in Deuteronomy 15:20?
A: Including one's household highlights the importance of sharing sacred experiences with family. Eating the sacrifice together fosters unity, teaches children about serving Hashem, and ensures that the mitzvah benefits the entire household (Sifrei Devarim, Piska 107).
Q: How does this verse apply today without the Beit HaMikdash?
A: While we cannot currently bring sacrifices, we learn from this verse the importance of dedicating our meals to holiness. Today, this is reflected in making blessings before and after eating, sharing meals with family, and supporting Torah scholars—fulfilling the spirit of 'eating before Hashem' (Talmud, Berachot 21a; Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 180).
Q: Why does the Torah say 'in the place which the Lord shall choose' instead of naming Jerusalem directly?
A: The Torah uses this phrasing because Jerusalem was not revealed as the chosen location until later in King David's time. This teaches that Hashem’s plan unfolds gradually, and we must follow His commandments even when details are not yet fully revealed (Talmud, Zevachim 54b; Rashi on Deuteronomy 12:5).
Context of the Verse
The verse (Devarim 15:20) refers to the mitzvah of eating the Ma'aser Sheni (Second Tithe) in Yerushalayim, as part of the agricultural obligations for the Jewish people. This commandment emphasizes the sanctity of consuming tithed produce in the presence of Hashem at the designated place—the Beis HaMikdash.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Devarim 15:20) clarifies that "before the Lord thy God" means specifically in Yerushalayim, the place Hashem chooses for His Divine Presence. He notes that this mitzvah applies to the Ma'aser Sheni, which must be eaten in purity and with joy, as part of one's spiritual connection to the Land of Israel and the Beis HaMikdash.
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchos Ma'aser Sheni (1:1-3), the Rambam elaborates that this mitzvah reinforces the centrality of Yerushalayim in Jewish worship. By requiring Jews to bring their tithes there, it fosters unity and elevates the spiritual experience of eating, transforming a physical act into a divine service.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 331) rules that if one cannot eat the Ma'aser Sheni in Yerushalayim, it must be redeemed (with coins) and the redeemed value brought there. This underscores the verse's requirement that the sanctity of the tithe be connected to the holy city.
Spiritual Significance
Eating "before the Lord" teaches that mundane acts like eating can become sacred when performed with intention and in the proper place. The mitzvah cultivates awareness of Hashem's presence in daily life, particularly through the blessings of the Land of Israel.