share torah logo

Deuteronomy 6:6 - Torah engraved in heart

Deuteronomy 6:6 - דברים 6:6

Hebrew Text

וְהָיוּ הַדְּבָרִים הָאֵלֶּה אֲשֶׁר אָנֹכִי מְצַוְּךָ הַיּוֹם עַל־לְבָבֶךָ׃

English Translation

And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thy heart:

Transliteration

Vehayu hadvarim ha'eleh asher anochi metzavkha hayom al levavekha.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְהָי֞וּ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֗לֶּה אֲשֶׁ֨ר אָנֹכִ֧י מְצַוְּךָ֛ הַיּ֖וֹם עַל־לְבָבֶֽךָ׃
וְהָי֞וּ הַדְּבָרִ֣ים הָאֵ֗לֶּה אֲשֶׁ֨ר אָנֹכִ֧י מְצַוְּךָ֛ הַיּ֖וֹם עַל־לְבָבֶֽךָ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Understanding the Verse

The verse "וְהָיוּ הַדְּבָרִים הָאֵלֶּה אֲשֶׁר אָנֹכִי מְצַוְּךָ הַיּוֹם עַל־לְבָבֶךָ" (Devarim 6:6) emphasizes the obligation to internalize the words of Torah so that they reside deeply within one's heart. This is a foundational principle in Jewish thought, highlighting that Torah observance must stem from sincere devotion and understanding, not mere rote performance.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that the phrase "עַל־לְבָבֶךָ" ("upon your heart") means that one must accept the words of Torah with heartfelt commitment. He cites the Sifrei (a halachic Midrash), which interprets this as a directive to ensure that the commandments are not treated as a burden but are embraced with love and enthusiasm. Rashi further notes that the term "הַיּוֹם" ("this day") teaches that one should approach Torah study and mitzvot every day as if they were newly given.

Rambam's Perspective

In Mishneh Torah (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 2:1-2), the Rambam elaborates on this verse, stating that true fulfillment of mitzvot requires yedi'ah (knowledge) and hakarah (recognition) of Hashem. The heart symbolizes the seat of understanding and emotion; thus, internalizing Torah means integrating its wisdom into one's thoughts and actions.

Midrashic Insights

  • The Midrash Tanchuma (Eikev 3) compares the heart to a "tablet" upon which Torah must be inscribed. Just as a scribe carefully etches letters, so must a Jew engrave Torah principles deeply within.
  • Another teaching in the Sifrei (Devarim 33) links this verse to the Shema, underscoring that love of Hashem (Devarim 6:5) is inseparable from Torah study—both must dwell in the heart.

Practical Application

The Talmud (Yoma 72b) derives from this verse that Torah scholars must embody their learning—their inner and outer selves should align. The Chofetz Chaim, in Shmiras HaLashon, applies this idea to speech: just as Torah must be "upon the heart," so must one guard one's words to reflect Torah values.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Berakhot 13b
The verse is referenced in the discussion about the recitation of the Shema and the importance of internalizing the commandments.
📖 Kiddushin 30a
The verse is cited in the context of teaching children Torah and the mitzvah of studying Torah diligently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'these words shall be in your heart' mean in Deuteronomy 6:6?
A: This verse teaches that the commandments of the Torah should not just be followed outwardly, but should be internalized with deep understanding and love. Rashi explains that the words of Torah should be 'ready in your heart'—meaning you should always be prepared to fulfill them sincerely.
Q: Why is it important to have Torah commandments 'in your heart'?
A: The Rambam (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 2:2) teaches that true service of Hashem requires both knowledge and emotional connection. Keeping the commandments 'in your heart' ensures that our actions stem from genuine devotion rather than habit or obligation.
Q: How can we practically fulfill 'these words shall be in your heart' today?
A: The Talmud (Menachot 99b) explains this includes regularly studying Torah with concentration. Practical ways include: 1) Saying the Shema with proper intention, 2) Reflecting on mitzvot before performing them, and 3) Setting fixed times for Torah study as the Shulchan Aruch recommends.
Q: What's the connection between this verse and the Shema prayer?
A: This verse is part of the first paragraph of Shema (Devarim 6:4-9). The Sforno explains that having Torah 'in your heart' is the foundation for fulfilling all the mitzvot mentioned afterward - teaching children, wearing tefillin, and placing mezuzot.
Q: Does 'this day' in the verse refer to a specific time?
A: The Midrash (Sifrei Devarim 33) teaches that 'this day' means we should approach Torah every day as if it was newly given at Sinai. The Baal Shem Tov adds that each day brings new opportunities to connect to Torah with fresh enthusiasm.