Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 8:17 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 8:17 warns against the mistaken belief that one's success or wealth comes solely from their own efforts. The verse cautions a person not to think, 'My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.' Instead, it reminds us that all blessings come from Hashem (God). Rashi explains that this verse teaches humility—acknowledging that even our abilities and opportunities are granted by divine providence.
Q: Why is Deuteronomy 8:17 important?
A: This verse is important because it addresses a common human tendency—taking credit for success while forgetting divine assistance. The Rambam (Maimonides) teaches in Hilchot De'ot (Laws of Character Traits) that recognizing Hashem's role in our achievements fosters gratitude and prevents arrogance. The Talmud (Sotah 5a) also warns that arrogance distances a person from Hashem, making this verse a crucial ethical lesson.
Q: How can we apply Deuteronomy 8:17 in daily life?
A: We can apply this verse by consciously acknowledging Hashem's help in our accomplishments. The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah) suggests saying blessings (brachot) over success, such as 'HaGomel' or 'Shehecheyanu,' to express gratitude. Additionally, the Chofetz Chaim teaches that when we succeed, we should attribute it to divine kindness rather than personal merit, fostering humility and thankfulness.
Q: What is the danger of thinking 'my power made me successful'?
A: The danger, as explained in the Talmud (Berachot 32b), is that such thinking leads to spiritual downfall. The Sages compare arrogance to idolatry because it replaces reliance on Hashem with self-worship. The Mesillat Yesharim (Path of the Just) teaches that this mindset also makes a person ungrateful, blinding them to the true source of their blessings.
Q: Does this verse mean we shouldn't work hard?
A: No—Jewish tradition emphasizes the importance of effort (hishtadlut). The Ramban (Nachmanides) explains that while we must work, we must also recognize that success ultimately depends on Hashem's will. The Talmud (Kiddushin 30b) teaches, 'Everything is in the hands of Heaven except the fear of Heaven,' meaning we must do our part while trusting in divine providence.
Context in the Torah
The verse (Devarim 8:17) appears in Moshe's warning to Bnei Yisrael as they prepare to enter Eretz Yisrael. It cautions against attributing material success solely to one's own efforts, rather than recognizing Hashem's role in granting prosperity.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that this verse describes a mistaken mindset a person might develop when experiencing wealth and success. The person may think, "My own strength and abilities produced this wealth," forgetting that all blessings come from Hashem. Rashi emphasizes that this arrogance leads to forgetting Hashem, as warned in the following verse (8:19).
Rambam's Perspective
In Hilchot De'ot (4:1), Rambam discusses how this verse illustrates the danger of ga'avah (arrogance). He explains that when a person attributes success to themselves, they violate the principle of recognizing Hashem as the true source of all blessings. This attitude can lead to further spiritual decline.
Midrashic Interpretation
The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah 8:10) connects this verse to the concept of "kochi v'otzem yadi" being one of four things that "push aside" (delay or prevent) the coming of Mashiach. The Midrash teaches that when people stop recognizing Hashem's hand in their success, it creates a spiritual barrier in the world.
Practical Lessons
Chassidic Insight
The Baal Shem Tov taught that this verse represents the yetzer hara's subtle deception. Even when a person does work hard, they must remember that their strength and opportunities all come from Hashem. True success comes when we channel our efforts as partners with the Divine.