Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'uncircumcised hearts' mean in Leviticus 26:41?
A: In Jewish tradition, an 'uncircumcised heart' refers to a heart that is closed off to spiritual growth and repentance. Rashi explains that this means their hearts were stubborn and resistant to change. Just as physical circumcision removes a barrier, spiritual 'circumcision of the heart' means removing obstacles to serving Hashem properly.
Q: Why does the verse say Hashem will bring them to their enemies' land?
A: According to Rambam and traditional Jewish sources, this describes the consequence of not following Torah properly. When the Jewish people stray, exile serves as a wake-up call to return to Hashem. The hardships in exile help humble them and inspire repentance, as the verse continues to explain.
Q: What does it mean to 'make amends for their sin' in this verse?
A: The Talmud (Yoma 86b) explains this refers to complete repentance (teshuvah). When the Jewish people recognize their mistakes, feel sincere regret, and commit to change, they can repair their relationship with Hashem. This verse teaches that suffering in exile can lead to this spiritual awakening.
Q: How does this verse apply to Jewish life today?
A: The Midrash teaches that this verse remains relevant in every generation. When we face challenges, we should examine our actions and use difficulties as opportunities for spiritual growth. The verse reminds us that hardships can soften our hearts and motivate us to improve our connection to Torah and mitzvot.
Q: Why does the verse mention walking 'contrary' to them?
A: Rashi explains this means Hashem relates to us measure for measure - if we distance ourselves from Torah observance, it may appear as if Hashem is 'hiding His face.' But this is ultimately for our benefit, to inspire repentance. The Sforno adds that this tough love is actually a sign of Hashem's care, like a parent disciplining a child.
Context in the Torah
This verse appears in Vayikra (Leviticus) 26:41, within the Tochacha (Rebuke), where Hashem warns of the consequences if Bnei Yisrael stray from the mitzvos. The verse describes a process of teshuvah (repentance) that may occur after exile and suffering.
Meaning of "Walked Contrary to Them"
Rashi explains that "אֵלֵךְ עִמָּם בְּקֶרִי" ("walked contrary to them") means Hashem will treat them with keri—harshness and indifference—mirroring their own casual attitude toward mitzvos. The Midrash (Toras Kohanim) emphasizes that this is a measure-for-measure response to their neglect of Torah.
The Purpose of Exile
The Ramban (Nachmanides) teaches that exile to "the land of their enemies" serves as a refining process. When removed from Eretz Yisrael, the Jewish people confront their spiritual state, leading to yissurim shel ahavah (chastisements of love) that awaken teshuvah.
"Uncircumcised Hearts" and Humility
The term "לְבָבָם הֶעָרֵל" ("uncircumcised hearts") refers to stubbornness and spiritual insensitivity (Rashi). The Sforno adds that only through suffering will their hearts soften, allowing humility (כָּנַע)—a prerequisite for genuine repentance.
Teshuvah and Atonement
The phrase "יִרְצוּ אֶת־עֲוֺנָם" ("make amends for their sin") indicates full repentance. The Talmud (Yoma 86a) distinguishes between teshuvah mi'yirah (repentance from fear) and teshuvah mei'ahavah (repentance from love). Here, the suffering leads to the higher form—accepting guilt and rectifying wrongdoing (Rambam, Hilchos Teshuvah 2:2).
Key Lessons