Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 4:31 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 4:31 reassures the Jewish people that Hashem (God) is merciful and will never abandon or destroy them, nor forget the covenant He made with their ancestors (Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov). This verse emphasizes God's eternal commitment to the Jewish people, even when they may stray.
Q: Why is the covenant mentioned in Deuteronomy 4:31 important?
A: The covenant mentioned here refers to the eternal promise Hashem made with our forefathers (Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov) to make their descendants His chosen people and give them the Land of Israel. This covenant is foundational in Judaism, as it establishes our unique relationship with Hashem and His unwavering commitment to us, as explained by Rashi and other commentators.
Q: How does Deuteronomy 4:31 apply to us today?
A: This verse reminds us that no matter what challenges the Jewish people face, Hashem's mercy and faithfulness remain constant. According to Jewish tradition, even during exile and hardship, God does not abandon us—He continues to guide and protect us, as He promised in the covenant with our ancestors.
Q: What can we learn from the phrase 'He will not forsake thee' in Deuteronomy 4:31?
A: The phrase teaches us that Hashem's relationship with the Jewish people is unbreakable. The Talmud (Berachot 32a) explains that even when we sin, Hashem does not completely forsake us—He waits for us to repent and return to Him. This gives us hope and encouragement to strengthen our connection with God.
Q: How do Jewish sources interpret God's mercy in Deuteronomy 4:31?
A: Rashi explains that Hashem's mercy means He is patient and slow to anger, always giving us opportunities to correct our ways. The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah) adds that God's mercy is like a loving parent who never gives up on their child, reinforcing the idea that His covenant and kindness endure forever.
Divine Mercy and the Eternal Covenant
The verse (Devarim 4:31) emphasizes Hashem's boundless mercy and His unwavering commitment to the Jewish people. Rashi explains that even when Israel sins and deserves punishment, Hashem's attribute of mercy prevails, preventing total destruction. The phrase "כִּי אֵל רַחוּם" ("for a merciful God") underscores that divine compassion is intrinsic to His relationship with His people.
Threefold Assurance
The Covenant with the Forefathers
Ibn Ezra notes that the verse specifically mentions "בְּרִית אֲבֹתֶיךָ" ("covenant of your fathers") to highlight that the merit of Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov sustains their descendants. The Talmud (Berachos 7a) teaches that Hashem's oath to the Avot is unbreakable, creating an eternal bond with their progeny.
Practical Implications
The Rambam (Hilchos Teshuvah 3:4) derives from this verse that no matter how far Jews stray, repentance is always possible due to Hashem's mercy and covenant. This offers hope during challenging times, reinforcing that divine compassion ultimately prevails over strict justice.