Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'Hear, O Israel' mean in Deuteronomy 9:1?
A: The phrase 'Hear, O Israel' (שְׁמַע יִשְׂרָאֵל) is a call to attention, emphasizing the importance of the message that follows. Rashi explains that Moshe (Moses) was urging the Jewish people to listen carefully to the instructions and warnings about entering the Land of Israel, as they were about to face great challenges.
Q: Why does the verse mention 'nations greater and mightier than yourself'?
A: The Torah mentions this to remind the Jewish people that their success in conquering the land would not come from their own strength, but through divine assistance. The Ramban (Nachmanides) explains that this was meant to inspire humility and reliance on Hashem, as the nations they would face were formidable.
Q: What is the significance of 'cities great and fortified up to heaven'?
A: This hyperbolic description emphasizes the seemingly insurmountable obstacles the Jewish people would face. The Talmud (Sotah 35a) discusses how the Canaanite cities appeared impregnable, yet with faith in Hashem, the Jewish people would overcome them. It teaches that no challenge is too great when following divine will.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: Just as the Jewish people then faced daunting challenges, we too encounter difficulties in life. This verse reminds us that with faith and trust in Hashem, we can overcome obstacles that seem impossible. The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah) teaches that this lesson applies to spiritual struggles as well—perseverance and divine help lead to success.
Q: Why does Moshe say 'this day' if they hadn't crossed yet?
A: Rashi explains that 'this day' (הַיּוֹם) means the instruction was urgent, as if they were crossing immediately. The Talmud (Eruvin 63a) teaches that Torah learning should always feel fresh and pressing, as if given 'today.' This teaches us to approach mitzvot with immediacy and enthusiasm.
Context in Sefer Devarim
The verse (Devarim 9:1) appears in Moshe Rabbeinu's final address to Bnei Yisrael before their entry into Eretz Yisrael. Rashi explains that this serves as both a warning and encouragement—acknowledging the formidable challenges ahead while reinforcing that Hashem will enable their victory.
Grammatical and Thematic Analysis
Military and Spiritual Dimensions
The Sforno interprets "nations greater and mightier" as referring not only to physical strength but to moral corruption (based on Devarim 9:4-5), making their displacement a divine rectification. The Talmud (Sotah 36a) links "fortified up to heaven" to literal towering walls, while the Kli Yakar metaphorically reads it as cities so morally entrenched that their sins "reached the heavens."
Hashgacha Pratit (Divine Providence)
The Ohr HaChaim underscores the apparent impossibility of conquering such nations without direct divine intervention, teaching that Bnei Yisrael's success would unequivocally demonstrate Hashem's hand in history. This aligns with Rambam's principle (Hilchot Teshuvah 5:4) that open miracles confirm prophecy.