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Deuteronomy 30:14 - Torah within reach always

Deuteronomy 30:14 - דברים 30:14

Hebrew Text

כִּי־קָרוֹב אֵלֶיךָ הַדָּבָר מְאֹד בְּפִיךָ וּבִלְבָבְךָ לַעֲשֹׂתוֹ׃

English Translation

But the word is very near to thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayst do it.

Transliteration

Ki-karov elekha ha-davar me'od befikha u-vilvavkha la'asoto.

Hebrew Leining Text

כִּֽי־קָר֥וֹב אֵלֶ֛יךָ הַדָּבָ֖ר מְאֹ֑ד בְּפִ֥יךָ וּבִֽלְבָבְךָ֖ לַעֲשֹׂתֽוֹ׃ <span class="mam-spi-samekh">{ס}</span>        
כִּֽי־קָר֥וֹב אֵלֶ֛יךָ הַדָּבָ֖ר מְאֹ֑ד בְּפִ֥יךָ וּבִֽלְבָבְךָ֖ לַעֲשֹׂתֽוֹ׃ {ס}        

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context in Devarim

The verse (Devarim 30:14) appears in Parshat Nitzavim, where Moshe Rabbeinu emphasizes the accessibility of Torah observance to Bnei Yisrael. It follows the discussion of teshuvah (repentance) and reinforces that fulfilling mitzvot is within reach of every Jew.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi interprets "the word" as referring to Torah study and mitzvah observance. He explains that it is "in your mouth" through reciting Shema and prayer, and "in your heart" through proper intention (kavanah). The phrase "to do it" underscores that understanding must lead to action.

Rambam's Perspective

In Hilchot Teshuvah (5:2), Rambam cites this verse to prove that teshuvah and Torah observance require neither superhuman effort nor prophetic revelation, but are attainable through normal human faculties of speech and thought.

Talmudic Interpretation

Makkot 10a connects this verse to the mitzvah of Torah study, teaching that the Torah is not in heaven (beyond reach) but is accessible through human learning. The Talmud emphasizes that Torah wisdom is acquired through verbal repetition ("in your mouth") and internalization ("in your heart").

Sifrei's Insight

The Sifrei (Devarim 80) explains that "near to you" means the Torah's commandments are:

  • Geographically accessible - not requiring pilgrimage to distant lands
  • Intellectually comprehensible - not requiring esoteric knowledge
  • Practically doable - not requiring superhuman abilities

Chassidic Interpretation

The Baal Shem Tov taught that "in your mouth and heart" refers to serving Hashem through both external actions (speech) and internal devotion (heartfelt intention). The Tzemach Tzedek added that "very near" implies this accessibility applies even in times of spiritual darkness.

Practical Application

This verse teaches that Torah observance is fundamentally accessible to all Jews, regardless of:

  • Intellectual level - through simple faith and basic mitzvot
  • Geographic location - as Torah can be studied anywhere
  • Spiritual state - as teshuvah is always available

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Berakhot 63b
The verse is cited in a discussion about the importance of Torah study and the accessibility of divine commandments.
📖 Megillah 20b
Referenced in the context of the obligation to read the Megillah and the accessibility of mitzvot.
📖 Nedarim 8a
Mentioned in a discussion about vows and the proximity of the Torah's commandments to one's heart and mouth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'the word is very near to you' mean in Deuteronomy 30:14?
A: This verse teaches that the Torah and its commandments are accessible to every Jew. Rashi explains that 'the word' refers to the Torah, which is not distant or impossible to follow—it is 'in your mouth' (through study and speech) and 'in your heart' (through sincere intention), making it possible to fulfill.
Q: Why is Deuteronomy 30:14 important in Judaism?
A: This verse emphasizes that observing the Torah is within everyone's reach. The Rambam (Maimonides) cites this verse to show that repentance and fulfilling mitzvot are always possible, as G-d has made Torah guidance clear and attainable for all Jews.
Q: How can we apply 'the word is in your mouth and heart' in daily life?
A: The Talmud (Berachot 17a) teaches that speaking words of Torah and internalizing them in the heart leads to proper action. This means regularly studying Torah, reciting blessings, and praying with focus ('kavanah'), ensuring that our deeds align with our beliefs.
Q: What does 'in your heart' signify in this verse?
A: The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim) explains that 'in your heart' refers to sincere belief and commitment. Merely performing mitzvot mechanically is insufficient—one must also cultivate love and reverence for G-d, as emphasized in the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:5-6).
Q: Does this verse mean the Torah is easy to follow?
A: While the Torah is 'near' and achievable, the Talmud (Avodah Zarah 5a) acknowledges that spiritual growth requires effort. The verse reassures us that with sincere study ('mouth') and dedication ('heart'), every Jew can progress in Torah observance step by step.