Deuteronomy 29:18 - Self-deception brings destruction.

Context in the Torah

This verse appears in Devarim (Deuteronomy) 29:18, within the section describing the severe consequences of abandoning the covenant with Hashem. It warns against an individual who, upon hearing the curses, rationalizes his sinful behavior, believing he will escape punishment.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi interprets the phrase "וְהִתְבָּרֵךְ בִּלְבָבוֹ" ("he blesses himself in his heart") as the sinner reassuring himself that he will be spared despite his rebellious actions. Rashi connects this to the concept of "שְׂפַת הָרָוָה" ("the drunken with the thirsty"), explaining that the sinner adds intentional sins (הרווה—already "satiated" with sin) to unintentional ones (הצמאה—still "thirsty" for sin). This demonstrates a progression from carelessness to willful defiance.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchot Teshuvah (Laws of Repentance 4:1), the Rambam discusses how a person might harden his heart and persist in sin, believing he is beyond reproach. This aligns with the verse's warning—such a person deludes himself into thinking "שָׁלוֹם יִהְיֶה־לִּי" ("I shall have peace"), ignoring the spiritual consequences of his actions.

Midrashic Interpretation

The Sifrei (a halachic Midrash on Devarim) explains that the phrase "לְמַעַן סְפוֹת הָרָוָה אֶת־הַצְּמֵאָה" refers to compounding sins deliberately, like one who drinks more after already being intoxicated. This reflects a dangerous spiritual state where sin becomes habitual and unchecked.

Moral Lesson

• Self-Deception: The verse warns against the trap of rationalizing sinful behavior, assuming divine judgment will not apply.
• Spiritual Deterioration: Small sins lead to greater ones, as illustrated by the metaphor of adding "drunkenness to thirst."
• Accountability: No one is exempt from divine justice, even if they convince themselves otherwise.