Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Exodus 34:11 mean?
A: Exodus 34:11 is part of the renewal of the covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people after the sin of the Golden Calf. Hashem commands the Israelites to observe His commandments and promises to drive out the seven Canaanite nations (Emori, Kena'ani, Ḥitti, Perizzi, Ḥivvi, and Yevusi) from the Land of Israel to make way for them. Rashi explains that this verse emphasizes the condition that the Israelites must keep the Torah's commandments to merit inheriting the land.
Q: Why does the verse list specific nations like the Emori and Kena'ani?
A: The Torah lists these seven nations because they were the primary inhabitants of the Land of Canaan, which was destined for the Jewish people. The Ramban (Nachmanides) explains that these nations were particularly steeped in idolatry and immorality, and their removal was necessary to establish a holy nation in the land. The Talmud (Avodah Zarah 20a) also discusses the spiritual dangers of adopting their practices.
Q: How does Exodus 34:11 apply to us today?
A: While the literal command to drive out the seven nations was specific to the time of Joshua's conquest, the verse teaches an eternal lesson about separating from negative influences. The Sforno explains that just as the Israelites had to remove corrupt nations to build a holy society, we must distance ourselves from harmful behaviors and environments to live according to Torah values. This applies spiritually and morally in all generations.
Q: What is the connection between keeping commandments and inheriting the land in this verse?
A: The verse links the observance of mitzvot (commandments) with the promise of inheriting the land, teaching that the Jewish people's right to the Land of Israel is conditional upon their faithfulness to Torah. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah 34:1) states that the land 'vomited out' its previous inhabitants due to their sins, implying that the same applies to the Jewish people if they stray. Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 8:11) also discusses this principle in the laws of kings and wars.
Q: Why does Hashem say 'I drive out' instead of 'you will conquer'?
A: By saying 'I drive out,' Hashem emphasizes that the conquest of the land is ultimately His miracle, not merely a military achievement. Rashi notes that this phrasing reassures the Israelites that their success depends on divine assistance, not just their own strength. The Talmud (Sotah 44b) derives from this that even in battle, Jews must trust in Hashem's help rather than physical power alone.
Context of the Verse
The verse appears in Shemot (Exodus) 34:11, where Hashem renews His covenant with Bnei Yisrael after the sin of the Golden Calf. This passage emphasizes the importance of adhering to divine commandments while also assuring the Jewish people of their future conquest of Eretz Yisrael.
Explanation of "Shamar Lecha" (Observe for Yourself)
Rashi explains that "Shamar lecha" implies a personal obligation—each individual must guard and uphold the mitzvot as if they were given directly to them. The Ramban adds that this phrasing underscores the need for constant vigilance in Torah observance, as the mitzvot are not merely historical commandments but eternal obligations.
The Seven Nations Mentioned
The verse lists six of the seven Canaanite nations (the Girgashi are omitted here). The Talmud (Chullin 60b) discusses why certain nations are sometimes omitted or included in different passages, suggesting that their spiritual influences vary. The Kli Yakar notes that these nations represent negative spiritual forces that must be eradicated to establish a holy society in Eretz Yisrael.
Divine Assistance in Conquest
The phrase "Hineni goreish mipanecha" (Behold, I drive out before you) emphasizes that the conquest of Eretz Yisrael is not dependent on human strength alone but on divine intervention. The Sforno teaches that this promise is conditional—Bnei Yisrael must first uphold the mitzvot, and only then will Hashem ensure their victory over these nations.
Spiritual and Practical Implications
The Or HaChaim highlights that the expulsion of these nations is not merely a physical battle but a spiritual one. Their presence in the land poses a threat to the moral and religious integrity of Bnei Yisrael. Thus, the mitzvah to drive them out is intertwined with the broader mission of creating a sanctified nation in a sanctified land.