Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 28:10 mean when it says 'all people of the earth shall see that you are called by the name of the Lord'?
A: According to Rashi and other traditional Jewish commentators, this verse means that when the Jewish people faithfully follow Hashem's commandments, their unique relationship with Him will be visibly evident to all nations. This recognition comes through the Jewish people's moral behavior, wisdom, and divine protection, showing they are 'called by the name of the Lord'—meaning they represent His presence in the world.
Q: Why does Deuteronomy 28:10 say the nations will 'be afraid' of the Jewish people?
A: The Rambam explains that this 'fear' is not about physical intimidation, but rather a deep respect and awe that other nations will have when they recognize the Jewish people's special connection to Hashem. The Talmud (Berachot 6a) teaches that when the Jewish people fulfill Torah properly, even gentiles will acknowledge their divine mission and treat them with reverence.
Q: How does Deuteronomy 28:10 apply to Jews today?
A: The Sforno teaches that this verse remains eternally relevant—when Jews live according to Torah values with integrity, the world takes notice. Today, this manifests when Jewish ethics, scholarship, or resilience inspire admiration. The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim) emphasizes that our behavior as individuals and a community can sanctify Hashem's name (Kiddush Hashem) or the opposite, showing the ongoing responsibility this verse describes.
Q: What is the connection between Deuteronomy 28:10 and the concept of being a 'light unto nations'?
A: The verse reflects the same idea as the prophecy in Yeshayahu (42:6) about Israel being a 'light unto nations.' The Malbim explains that when Jews embody Torah ideals ('called by Hashem's name'), they inspire other nations to recognize divine truth. This doesn't mean converting others, but rather setting an example of justice and holiness that elevates humanity.
Q: Does Deuteronomy 28:10 mean Jews will always be feared by other nations?
A: Rashi clarifies that this blessing is conditional—it depends on the Jewish people keeping the Torah. The Talmud (Ta'anit 29a) notes that when Jews are unfaithful to the covenant, the opposite may occur (G-d forbid). Thus, the verse is both a promise and a reminder of our responsibility to live in a way that merits this divine protection and respect.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Devarim 28:10) appears in the section of Ki Tavo, where Moshe outlines the blessings that will come upon Bnei Yisrael if they faithfully observe the mitzvot. This particular verse emphasizes the elevated spiritual status of the Jewish people and the awe they will inspire among the nations.
Meaning of "Called by the Name of the Lord"
Rashi explains that "שֵׁם ה' נִקְרָא עָלֶיךָ" refers to the fact that the tefillin shel rosh (phylacteries worn on the head) bear the name of Hashem, symbolizing that the Jewish people are distinguished as His chosen nation. The Ramban expands on this, stating that the nations will recognize the Divine protection and providence over Israel, leading them to fear harming the Jewish people.
The Fear of the Nations
The Talmud (Berachos 6a) teaches that when the nations see the Jewish people immersed in Torah study and mitzvah observance, they will recognize their unique relationship with Hashem and will fear them. The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah 7:3) adds that this fear is not merely due to military might but stems from the sanctity and Divine favor visibly resting upon Israel.
Practical Implications