Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Hashem choose the Jewish people if they were the smallest nation?
A: According to Rashi and other commentaries, Hashem chose the Jewish people not because of their size or strength, but purely out of His love and the merit of our forefathers (Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov). This teaches us that our relationship with Hashem is based on spiritual qualities, not physical numbers.
Q: What is the significance of the Jewish people being called the 'fewest of all peoples' in this verse?
A: The Midrash explains that being small in number highlights that our survival and success come from Hashem's protection, not human power. The Rambam teaches that this reminds us to stay humble and recognize that our strength comes from our connection to Hashem, not worldly measures.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jews today?
A: This verse reminds us that our value as Jews isn't determined by population size or worldly success, but by our faithfulness to Torah and mitzvot. The Sforno notes that this eternal truth gives us strength even when we feel like a minority in the world.
Q: What does this verse teach us about Hashem's love for the Jewish people?
A: The Ohr HaChaim explains that Hashem's choice was an act of pure divine love, not based on any external factors. This unconditional love continues today, as we see in how Hashem sustains the Jewish people against all odds throughout history.
Q: Does this mean the Jewish people are better than other nations?
A: No, the Talmud (Sanhedrin 39a) teaches that all nations are precious to Hashem. This verse simply explains that our selection was not due to superiority in numbers or power, but because of Hashem's unique relationship with us and our willingness to accept the Torah (as explained in Mechilta).
The Meaning of Divine Selection
The verse (Devarim 7:7) emphasizes that Hashem's choice of the Jewish people was not based on their numerical superiority, but rather despite their small size. Rashi explains that this teaches us that our selection was purely an act of divine love (chesed), not due to any inherent merit or greatness in quantity. The Ramban adds that this demonstrates Hashem's direct providence over Israel, as a small nation's survival and election defies natural historical patterns.
Spiritual Significance of Being "Fewest"
The Sforno notes that being the "fewest of all peoples" carries spiritual meaning: since quantity often leads to arrogance and self-reliance (as seen with large empires), our small numbers ensure we remain humble and dependent on Hashem. The Midrash Tanchuma (Re'eh 8) connects this to Avraham Avinu being chosen as a single individual, showing that quality of faith matters more than numbers.
Contrast with Other Nations
Contemporary Application
The Ohr HaChaim highlights that this eternal principle reminds every generation that Jewish survival against all odds proves divine providence. Rav Hirsch explains this forms the basis of our mission - to demonstrate that spiritual greatness, not demographic might, determines a nation's true significance in the divine plan.