Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Leviticus 26:45 mean?
A: Leviticus 26:45 reassures the Jewish people that even when they stray, Hashem will remember the covenant He made with their ancestors when He took them out of Egypt. This verse emphasizes Hashem's eternal commitment to the Jewish people, promising that despite punishments for wrongdoing, the covenant will never be completely abandoned (Rashi on Leviticus 26:45).
Q: Why is the Exodus from Egypt mentioned in this verse?
A: The Exodus is mentioned because it was the foundational event that established the covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people. By recalling this moment, the verse reminds us that Hashem's relationship with Israel is everlasting, rooted in His miraculous redemption of our ancestors (Ramban on Leviticus 26:45).
Q: What can we learn from Leviticus 26:45 today?
A: We learn that Hashem's mercy and commitment to the Jewish people endure forever. Even in difficult times, we can trust in the eternal covenant, just as our ancestors did. This teaches us to maintain faith and strive to uphold our side of the relationship through Torah and mitzvot (Sforno on Leviticus 26:45).
Q: What does 'in the sight of the nations' mean in this verse?
A: This phrase means that Hashem redeemed the Jewish people publicly, demonstrating to all nations His power and His special relationship with Israel. The miracles of the Exodus were witnessed by the world, proving that Hashem chose Israel as His people (Midrash Tanchuma, Bo 2).
Q: How does this verse connect to repentance (teshuvah)?
A: This verse offers hope that even after sin, Hashem will remember His covenant when we return to Him. It teaches that sincere repentance can restore our relationship with Hashem, as His promises to our ancestors remain in effect (Rambam, Hilchot Teshuvah 7:5).
Context in the Book of Vayikra (Leviticus)
This verse (Vayikra 26:45) appears in the Tochacha (the rebuke), where Hashem warns of the consequences of straying from the mitzvos but ultimately reassures Bnei Yisrael of His enduring covenant. Rashi explains that despite exile and punishment, Hashem will never utterly abandon His people, recalling the covenant made with the Avos (forefathers) and the Exodus from Mitzrayim.
The Covenant of the Forefathers
The phrase "בְּרִית רִאשֹׁנִים" ("covenant of the ancestors") refers to the promises made to Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov (see Ramban). The Sforno emphasizes that this covenant is unconditional—unlike the conditional covenant at Har Sinai, which depended on Bnei Yisrael’s observance. Thus, even when they falter, Hashem’s promise to the Avos ensures ultimate redemption.
The Exodus as a Foundational Event
Hashem specifically mentions the Exodus ("הוֹצֵאתִי־אֹתָם מֵאֶרֶץ מִצְרַיִם") as proof of His enduring relationship with Klal Yisrael. The Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 1:1) teaches that the Exodus was not merely a historical event but an eternal testament to Hashem’s role as our Redeemer. The phrase "לְעֵינֵי הַגּוֹיִם" ("in the sight of the nations") underscores that this was a public, miraculous demonstration of His power and commitment.
"That I Might Be Their God"
The purpose of the covenant and Exodus is encapsulated in "לִהְיֹת לָהֶם לֵאלֹהִים"—that Hashem is our God, and we are His people. The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 1:1) explains that this relationship is the foundation of Torah: recognizing Hashem’s sovereignty and fulfilling His will. The Malbim adds that this bond is eternal, transcending time and circumstance.
Conclusion: "I Am the Lord"
The verse concludes with "אֲנִי יְהוָה", affirming Hashem’s unchanging nature. As the Ohr HaChaim explains, this declaration reinforces that His promises are immutable, and His covenant will endure despite Israel’s failings. This assurance is a cornerstone of Jewish faith, as echoed in the daily prayers recalling the Exodus and our eternal bond with Hashem.