Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 26:33 mean?
A: Leviticus 26:33 is part of the 'Tochacha' (rebuke) section in the Torah, where Hashem warns of the consequences if the Jewish people abandon His commandments. This verse specifically describes exile ('scatter you among the heathen'), war ('draw out a sword after you'), and the desolation of the land of Israel. Rashi explains that this refers to the destruction of the Temple and the subsequent exile, which historically occurred due to sins like idolatry and neglecting Torah study.
Q: Why is this verse important in Judaism?
A: This verse is important because it serves as a solemn reminder of the covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people. The Rambam (Hilchos Teshuvah 7:5) teaches that these warnings are meant to inspire repentance. The Talmud (Megillah 31a) notes that we read the Tochacha before Shavuos to remind us of our responsibilities under the covenant of the Torah.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jewish history?
A: This verse prophetically describes the exiles that befell the Jewish people, including the Babylonian exile after the destruction of the First Temple and the Roman exile after the Second Temple's destruction. The Midrash (Eichah Rabbah) connects these punishments to specific sins. However, the verse also implies hope - just as the warnings came true, so too will the promises of redemption if we return to Hashem.
Q: What can we learn from Leviticus 26:33 today?
A: We learn that our relationship with the Land of Israel is conditional on our spiritual state. The Sforno explains that the land's desolation reflects the spiritual desolation that occurs when we distance ourselves from Torah. Today, this teaches us to value our connection to Israel and to strengthen our Torah observance, as the verse's warnings remind us of the importance of maintaining our covenant with Hashem.
Q: Does this verse mean the exile is permanent?
A: No, this verse must be read in context with the surrounding verses that promise eventual redemption. The Ramban (Nachmanides) emphasizes that the Torah always follows warnings with consolation. While this verse describes exile, the very next chapter (Leviticus 26:44-45) assures that Hashem will never completely abandon His people. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 98a) discusses how repentance can hasten the final redemption.
Context in the Torah
This verse appears in Vayikra (Leviticus) 26:33 as part of the Tochacha (the Admonition), a section detailing the severe consequences that will befall the Jewish people if they abandon the mitzvos and fail to uphold their covenant with Hashem. The Tochacha serves as a warning, emphasizing the principle of Divine justice and the repercussions of straying from Torah observance.
Interpretation of the Verse
The verse describes three primary punishments:
Theological Implications
The Rambam (Hilchos Teshuvah 7:5) emphasizes that these punishments are not arbitrary but serve as corrective measures to inspire repentance. The Ohr HaChaim further explains that exile and suffering are meant to purify the Jewish people and ultimately lead to their spiritual refinement and return to Hashem.
Hope Amidst Admonition
Though this verse speaks of harsh consequences, the Tochacha concludes with promises of redemption. The Ramban highlights that the very fact that exile is temporary—and that the land remains desolate rather than being resettled by others—proves that Hashem has not abandoned His covenant with the Jewish people. The Sifra teaches that even in exile, Hashem’s presence accompanies the Jewish people, ensuring their eventual return.