Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 29:10 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 29:10 describes the inclusivity of the covenant at Mount Sinai, emphasizing that all members of the Israelite community—men, women, children, and even the strangers (גֵרְךָ) living among them—were part of this sacred agreement with Hashem. Rashi explains that this verse highlights that even the woodcutters and water drawers (often seen as lower-status roles) were included in the covenant, showing that no one was excluded from the responsibility of Torah observance.
Q: Why is the 'stranger' (ger) mentioned in this verse?
A: The Torah frequently emphasizes kindness and fairness toward the stranger (גֵר), as seen in this verse. The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 6:4) teaches that we must treat the ger with respect and compassion because we were once strangers in Egypt. Here, the verse includes them in the covenant, showing that sincere converts or righteous non-Jews living among Israel also have a spiritual connection to the Jewish people and Torah.
Q: What lesson can we learn from 'from the hewer of wood to the drawer of water'?
A: This phrase teaches that every individual, regardless of social status or occupation, has equal standing in the covenant with Hashem. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 74a) discusses how even seemingly minor roles contribute to the community's holiness. This reminds us that no mitzvah or Jewish responsibility is insignificant—everyone has a unique role in serving G-d.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jewish unity today?
A: This verse reinforces the principle of Jewish unity (כל ישראל ערבים זה לזה)—that all Jews, regardless of background or status, are bound together in Torah and mitzvot. The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim 29) explains that the covenant unites young and old, leaders and laborers. Today, this teaches us to respect every Jew’s role in upholding Torah values, whether they are scholars, workers, or newcomers to Judaism.
Context in the Torah
The verse (Devarim 29:10) appears in Parashat Nitzavim, where Moshe gathers all of Bnei Yisrael—men, women, children, and even the strangers among them—to enter into the covenant with Hashem before entering Eretz Yisrael. The inclusion of every individual, regardless of status, emphasizes the collective responsibility of the Jewish people in upholding the Torah.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Devarim 29:10) explains that the phrase "from the hewer of thy wood to the drawer of thy water" refers to the Gibeonites, who tricked Bnei Yisrael into making a treaty with them (Yehoshua 9). Despite their deception, they were granted a place among the Jewish people as woodcutters and water-drawers for the Mishkan and later the Beis HaMikdash. Rashi highlights that even these individuals, who were not originally part of Bnei Yisrael, were included in the covenant, demonstrating the Torah's universal call to holiness.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Hilchos Melachim 10:12) discusses the status of ger toshav (resident stranger) and their obligations. The inclusion of the stranger in this verse teaches that even those who have not fully converted but live among Bnei Yisrael and accept the Seven Noahide Laws are part of the broader spiritual community. Their presence in the covenant underscores the Torah’s expectation for ethical behavior and recognition of Hashem’s sovereignty.
Midrashic Interpretation
The Midrash Tanchuma (Nitzavim 3) elaborates that the phrase "your little ones, your wives" teaches that children and women were not merely passive participants but were integral to the covenant. The Talmud (Chagigah 3a) further explains that even infants were present to "give reward to those who bring them," emphasizing that parents bear responsibility for their children’s spiritual education from the earliest age.
Halachic Implications