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<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'>*************************************************************************</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><font size=2
face=Arial><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold'>THE <st1:place
w:st="on"><st1:PlaceName w:st="on">TANACH</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceName w:st="on">STUDY</st1:PlaceName>
<st1:PlaceType w:st="on">CENTER</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>
www.tanach.org<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><i><font size=2
face=Arial><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;font-style:italic'>In
Memory of Rabbi Abraham Leibtag<o:p></o:p></span></font></i></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><font size=2
face=Arial><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold'>Shiurim in Chumash
& Navi by Menachem Leibtag<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'>*************************************************************************<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
font-weight:bold'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal align=center style='text-align:center'><b><i><font size=2
face=Arial><span style='font-size:10.0pt;font-weight:bold;font-style:italic'>PARSHAT
DEVARIM<o:p></o:p></span></font></i></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'> [shiur
revised 5768]</span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Why are there so many details in
Parshat Devarim that appear to contradict what was written earlier in Chumash?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>[For example, whose idea it was
to send the "meraglim" (Devarim 1:22 vs. Bamidbar 13:1); or whose
idea it was to appoint the judges (Devarim 1:12-18 vs. Shmot 18:13-26).]<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>In contrast to the 'heretical'
solutions offered by the Bible Critics - in the following shiur we suggest a
very simple and logical reason for these discrepancies - based on our
understanding of the overall theme and structure of Sefer Devarim, as discussed
in our introductory shiur. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:34.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>[If you didn't read that shiur,
it is available on the web-site at <a
href="http://www.tanach.org/dvarim/dvarint.pdf">www.tanach.org/dvarim/dvarint.pdf</a>
.]<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'>INTRODUCTION<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>In our introductory shiur, we
explained how the focal point of Sefer Devarim is Moshe Rabeinu's lengthy
speech (from chapters 5 thru 26), where he reviews a complete set of laws that
Bnei Yisrael must keep in the Land of Israel (see 5:1 & 6:1). Even
though he first received (and taught) these laws forty years earlier at Har
Sinai, he now teaches them one last time in Arvot Moav (before his death) - as
the new generation now prepares to conquer the Land. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>[Due to its content, this 'main
speech' is commonly referred to as "ne'um ha'mitzvot" - the speech of
commandments].<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Prior to that 'main speech',
Moshe Rabeinu delivers an introductory speech in chapters 1 thru 4, which
contains a review of many events that transpired in the desert, such as the
story of the spies (1:22-40), the appointment of the Judges (1:12-18), and the
conquest of Transjordan (chapters 2 & 3). Therefore, this 'first
speech' is commonly referred to as the 'historical speech', as it contains lots
of history. However, it is specifically this assumption which leads to so
many problems, for many of the details of that history in this 'first speech'
appear to contradict earlier accounts of those same events .<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>In the following shiur, we will
show Moshe Rabeinu's primary goal in this first speech is NOT to review
history; rather it is to inspire the nation to rise to the challenges of this
renewed historic opportunity to conquer the Land. Hence this speech will
contain a very selective review of earlier events, to remind the people how and
why the first generation failed - in the hope that this new generation will not
repeat those mistakes. This context will allow us to explain the
reason for these apparent discrepancies <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'>A SUMMARY OF THE FIRST SPEECH<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Before we
begin our shiur, let's use the following outline to review the main sections of
this first speech, and its primary topics.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'>A) INTRO <o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>1:1‑5 Opening narrative explaining background of
the main speech. (what, when, where, etc.).<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:28.35pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'>B) FROM HAR SINAI TO ARVOT MOAV<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> The reason
for the 40-year delay.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>1:6‑11 The original trip from Har Sinai to Eretz
Yisrael,<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> What should
have happened back then (instead of only now).<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>1:12‑18 Moshe's leadership shared with the elders
etc.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> (these appointees will judge
the people, based upon these laws)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>1:19‑40 "Chet ha'Meraglim" ‑
the REASON why that generation<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> did not enter
the Land, and why forty years have passed.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:36.0pt;text-indent:-36.0pt'><font size=1
face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>2:1‑23 The journey from Kadesh, around Har Seir
until Nachal<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Zared. The death
of "Dor HaMidbar" (2:14‑16)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Explaining
why <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Edom</st1:place></st1:country-region>,
Moav & Amon were not trespassed.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>[<st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region
w:st="on">Edom</st1:country-region></st1:place>, Moav, and Amon were not
attacked due to a divine command and NOT because Bnei Yisrael were not able to
fight them!]<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>2:24‑30 Challenging Sichon to battle, God's
involvement /2:30)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>2:31‑3:22 The war against Sichon, and Og King of <st1:place
w:st="on">Bashan</st1:place>,<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Conquest
of most of <st1:place w:st="on">Transjordan</st1:place>,<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:34.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Inheritance of Reuven and Gad,
and Menashe, and their promise to assist in the conquest of <st1:place w:st="on">Canaan</st1:place>.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:51.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>[Note God's assurance to assist
the people, based on these events in 3:20‑22.]<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:51.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>3:23‑29 Moshe's final request to see the Land.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'>C) INTRODUCTION TO THE MITZVOT OF THE
MAIN SPEECH<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>4:1‑24 General principles regarding mitzvot in
forthcoming speech,<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:36.0pt;text-indent:-36.0pt'><font size=1
face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> i.e.
not to add or take away, their purpose‑ to be a example for other
nations, not to worship God through any type of intermediary after Moshe dies.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>4:25‑40 a 'mini‑ tochacha', <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:36.0pt;text-indent:-36.0pt'><font size=1
face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> your
punishment should you not follow these forthcoming mitzvot, and the eternal
option to do 'teshuva'.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>============<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Let's begin our study of Parshat
Devarim itself, by identifying how and where the first speech begins, to show
why the first speech should indeed relate to the theme of the main speech. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'>THE OPENING LINE<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> In our
introductory shiur, we explained how the first four psukim of Parshat Devarim
(1:1-4) introduce the 'main speech' - even though that speech itself doesn't
begin until chapter five. Then, the fifth pasuk introduces the first speech in
a very interesting manner:<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>"In <st1:place w:st="on">Transjordan</st1:place>
in Moav, - "ho'eel Moshe" - Moshe BEGAN explaining "ha'torah
ha'zot" - this TORAH, saying:…"<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt;text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1
face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'> (See 1:5,
and Rashi! Note that 1:6 begins 'first person'.)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Consistently
in Sefer Devarim, the phrase "ha'torah ha'zot" (or its alternate form
"zot ha'torah") is used in reference to the main speech (see 4:8, 4:44,
17:18, 27:3, 27:8 and 31:12.). Therefore, this pausk informs the reader
that the speech that will now follow (beginning in 1:6) - serves as Moshe's
introduction to the main speech (that won't begin until chapter 5). <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='text-indent:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>Let's read now the opening lines
of this speech to see why this makes so much sense:<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 color=black
face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'>"Hashem</span></font><font
color=black><span lang=EN style='color:black'> spoke unto us in Chorev [=Har
Sinai] saying: 'You have dwelt long enough in this mountain; "turn you,
and take your journey, and go to the hill-country of the Amorites and unto all
the places... the land of the Canaanites,as far as the great river, the river
Euphrates. "<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 color=black
face=Arial><span lang=EN style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'> See,
I am giving you the land: <b><span style='font-weight:bold'>go in and possess
this land</span></b>, which Hashem swore unto your forefathers..."
(see 1:6-8)</span></font><span style='letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Recall how the
'main speech' contains a set of laws, first given at Har Sinai, that Bnei
Yisrael were to keep as they conquer and establish a nation in the Land. Had
Bnei Yisrael not sinned, these laws would have been applicable immediately
afterward. Therefore, Moshe Rabeinu begins his introductory speech by
explaining how these laws could (and should) have been fulfilled forty years ago
(later in this speech, he will explain what went wrong).<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'>DEJA - VU</span></font></b><span
style='letter-spacing:-.15pt'> <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> As the first
generation has passed away, and the new generation now prepares to enter the
land, Moshe's primary fear is that history may repeat itself. Surely, he
must teach these laws one last time; but beforehand, he must make every effort
to ensure that the new generation will not become fearful of that conquest.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> This clearly explains
why the speech begins with a re-cap of how forty years earlier, the nation had
studied all the necessary laws at Har Sinai and stood ready to begin their
conquest of the land (see 1:6-8). This also neatly explains why the story of
the spies emerges as the primary topic of chapter one (see 1:19-45) - for that
sin was the principal reason for this forty year delay. [If Sefer
Devarim was a simply a review of Chumash, then there are many other stories
that Moshe should have mentioned beforehand!]<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> However, this
does not explain the short digression in 1:9-18, where Moshe retells how and
why he appointed the judges, which at first glance, appears to be rather
unrelated and hence superfluous. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> To explain
why that story is included, we must consider the connection between the
appointment of Judges, and the laws of the 'main speech'.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black;font-weight:bold'>WHAT DO JUDGES HAVE TO DO
WITH ALL THIS?<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Review
1:6-22, noting how it would have made much more sense for Moshe to go from 1:8
directly to 1:19 (please verify this on your own). Nonetheless, this more
logical flow is 'interrupted' by what appears to be an unrelated statement:<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 color=black
face=Arial><span lang=EN style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'>"And I spoke
unto you 'at that time', saying: 'I am not able to lead by myself..."
(1:9)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'> Even
though this statement appears to be alluding to a complaint, the next two psukim
certainly counter that first impression:<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 color=black
face=Arial><span lang=EN style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'>"Hashem has
multiplied you, and, behold, you are this day a multitdue as the stars of
heaven. Hashem, the God of your fathers, should make you a thousand times so
many and bless you, as He promised you! (1:10-11)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'> [btw,
note the parallels to Breishit 15:5-7!]<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span style='font-size:
8.5pt;color:black'> <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span style='font-size:
8.5pt;color:black'> It appears that
Moshe wants to explain to the people why he himself could not judge everyone,
for their numbers had multiplied (and rightly so - as it was a fulfillment of a
divine blessing) to such an extent that surely no one person could handle all
their complaints. Indeed, 1:12 ["eicha asa l'vadi..."] alludes
to Moshe's unhappiness with the nature of their complaints, however the rest of
the psukim focus on the establishment (and the people's acceptance) of an
organized judicial system.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span style='font-size:
8.5pt;color:black'> </span></font><font
color=black><span lang=EN style='color:black'>But what is the thematic connection
between the appointment of these judges and the laws of the main speech? <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'>JUDGES AND/OR TEACHERS<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'> The
answer to this question lies in the final pasuk of this short 'digression':<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 color=black
face=Arial><span lang=EN style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'>"And I
commanded <b><span style='font-weight:bold'>you</span></b> [the people] 'at
that time' - et kol ha'DEVARIM - all the things which you should do." (see
1:18)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'> Pay
attention to the phrase "va'atzave <b><span style='font-weight:bold'>etchem</span></b>"
- which must be referring to the<b><span style='font-weight:bold'> people</span></b>,
and not to the judges. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 color=black
face=Arial><span lang=EN style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'>[You can prove
this by simply comparing "v'atzave <b><span style='font-weight:bold'>et
shofteichem</span></b>" in 1:16, to "v'atzave <b><span
style='font-weight:bold'>etchem</span></b>" in 1:18!]<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 color=black
face=Arial><span lang=EN style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'> This
short pasuk, even though it is often 'overlooked', connects everything
together. Moshe explains in these introductory remarks to the new
generation, that at that same time, i.e. after appointing the judges as Bnei
Yisrael first prepared to leave Har Sinai (see 1:9 - "b'et ha'hi",
compare with 1:18), he had commanded the people in regard to all the - DEVARIM
- which they must do. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'> But
what does the word 'DEVARIM' refer to?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'> Based
on our introductory shiur, the answer should be obvious! These are the same '<b><span
style='font-weight:bold'>devarim</span></b>' that the opening pasuk of Sefer Devarim
refers to ("eyleh <b><span style='font-weight:bold'>ha'devarim.</span></b>.."
/see 1:1), and that "v'hayu <b><span style='font-weight:bold'>ha'devarim</span></b>
ha'eyleh" refers to in 6:6 - which are simply the laws of the main speech
of Sefer Devarim! [See Ibn Ezra & Chizkuni on 1:18.]<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'> This
makes perfect sense, for that special set of laws (that require constant
repetition /"mishne Torah") relates to what Bnei Yisrael will need to
keep when they enter the land. Therefore, when Bnei Yisrael first left
Har Sinai forty years earlier, Moshe had taught the people these laws - <b><span
style='font-weight:bold'>with the help of these judges;</span></b> and now forty
years later, he reminds the people of those events, as he is about to teach
them those laws one last time. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'> As
it is the responsibility of the appointed judges to assist with the teaching of
these laws (see Devarim 27:1-8) and their implementation (see Devarim 16:18-20!),
Moshe includes those events at the beginning of his introductory speech. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span lang=EN
style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'> Unfortunately,
the first generation (and their judges) failed. It is now Moshe's hope
[and goal], that this generation and its judges will fare much better.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> As Moshe's
introductory speech focuses on Bnei Yisrael's need to be prepared for their
conquest of the land, and their need to study the relevant laws, it actually
makes sense that he mentions the appointment of judges first - for they will be
the key towards the success of this endeavor. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span style='font-size:
8.5pt;color:black'> Finally, this interpretation
of the word "devarim" in 1:18, explains why Moshe now continues his
speech by returning to the story of their journey from Chorev to Kadesh Barnea in
1:19. Based on our understanding that 1:2 describes how the laws of the
main speech were taught and studied during the eleven day journey from Chorev
to Kadesh Barnea (see Ibn Ezra), then the detail in 1:18-19 refers to this very
same point!<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span style='font-size:
8.5pt;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'>WHERE'S YITRO?<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> This
interpretation can also explain why Yitro himself is not mentioned in this
speech. Even though Devarim 1:15-17 may sound very similar to Shmot
18:14-22, the purpose of Moshe's speech is not to give a complete historical
review of every event that transpired in the desert. Instead, it focuses
on this special set of laws that Moshe is about to teach. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Therefore,
there is no need to mention (at this time) whose original idea it may have been
to set up this hierarchal judicial system. Instead, it is important to
know that the judicial system that has been set up is there to serve the people,
and it will facilitate their ability to establish themselves as God's nation in
the land. [See again 27:1-8, noting again the parallel to Bamidbar
chapter 11.]<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span style='font-size:
8.5pt;color:black'> Furthermore, the
phrase "b'et ha'hi" [at that time] in 1:9, based on its context in
relation to 1:6-8, must be referring to what took place at the time when
Bnei Yisrael first left Har Sinai - as recorded in chapter 11 in Sefer Bamidbar
- and not to the events in Parshat Yitro, which took place a year earlier. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span style='font-size:
8.5pt;color:black'> To support this,
note that we find almost that identical wording in a statement (in Parshat
Bhaalotcha) that Moshe had made precisely 'at that time':<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 color=black
face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'>"lo uchal anochi
l'vadi la'set et kol ha'am..." - I myself am not able to lead this
nation... (see Bamidbar 11:14, compare 1:9)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 color=black
face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 color=black face=Arial><span style='font-size:
8.5pt;color:black'> In response to Moshe's
'complaint' at that time (as they left Har Sinai), God commanded Moshe to share
his leadership with the 'seventy elders' (see Bamidbar 11:16-29). That
response is reflected in Moshe next statement in his speech in Sefer Devarim,
explaining how his burden of leadership was alleviated by the appointment of
judges, in a hierarchal system of leadership:</span></font><font color=black><span
lang=EN style='color:black'><o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 color=black
face=Arial><span lang=EN style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'>"How can I
alone bear your cumbrance, and burden, and disputes? [Therefore,] Get you, from
each one of your tribes, wise men, and understanding, and full of knowledge,
and I will make them heads over you...</span></font><sup><font color=blue><span
lang=EN style='color:blue'> </span></font></sup><font color=black><span
lang=EN style='color:black'> So I took the heads of your tribes, wise men, and
full of knowledge, and made them heads over you, captains of thousands, and
captains of hundreds, and captains of fifties, and captains of tens, and officers,
tribe by tribe. </span></font><sup><font color=blue><span lang=EN
style='color:blue'> </span></font></sup><font color=black><span lang=EN
style='color:black'>And I charged your judges at that time, saying: 'Hear the
causes between your brethren, and judge righteously between a man and his
brother, and the stranger that is with him... and the case that is too hard,
you shall bring unto me, and I will hear it'. (See 1:12-17.)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:34.0pt'><font size=1 color=black
face=Arial><span lang=EN style='font-size:8.5pt;color:black'>[Note that even
though this may sound like a similar account Parshat Yitro (see Shmot
18:13-26), based on the context, the primary parallel is to Bamidbar chapter
11. See also Ibn Ezra (and Rashi) in Shmot 18:13, who explain that this
story of the appointment of judges actually took place after the Torah was
given, and hence, that chapter is out of place. Note as well how Shmot
18:27 may be parallel to Bamidbar 10:29-33!]</span></font><span
style='letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'>WHO SENT THE SPIES?<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Moshe
continues his speech with the story of the "meraglim" [the spies].
As we explained, his purpose is to explain to the new generation why the first
generation failed, in hope that they will fare better. Therefore, Moshe
retells those events from that perspective, blaming the <b><span
style='font-weight:bold'>people</span></b> (more so than their leaders) for the
failure of that generation - for he wants to make sure that the <b><span
style='font-weight:bold'>people</span></b> do not become fearful again (as
their parents did).<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Note how
critical this point is; for if one understands Sefer Devarim as a review of
Chumash, then he is confronted with unachievable task of resolving the obvious
contradictions between these two accounts. However, once it is understood
that Moshe is telling over those events as part of a 'pep-talk', it makes
perfect sense that he emphasizes only the details that are relevant to the
theme of his speech. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> In contrast,
when these same events are recorded in Sefer Bamidbar, we find a different
perspective, for that book focuses on the theme of leadership. Therefore,
Parshat Shelach highlights the fault of the nation's leaders in those events. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Therefore,
neither account was written simply as an historical record of what happened;
rather each book records the events in relation to its theme. To
ascertain what really happened, one would need to 'splice together' the details
that are recorded in each book (as Rashi does in his commentary); but recording
those events in their entirety was neither the goal of Sefer Bamidbar nor Sefer
Devarim! <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'>[You could compare this to two TV
cameras filming a football game - one in the end-zone, and one on the
sideline). Even though each camera is filming the same game, each one
only shows the game for its own angle.]<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'>THE MAAPILIM<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> This
background also explains why Moshe includes the story of the "maapilim"
(see 1:40-45) as the conclusion of the "mergalim" incident. As
we explained, Moshe Rabeinu is quite fearful (and rightly so) that the nation
may 'chicken out' once again. In fact, realistically speaking, the people
have some very good reasons to worry. Let's review them.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> First of all,
the last time they tried to conquer the land of Israel (see Bamidbar 14:40-45),
they suffered a whopping defeat. Now Moshe may have explained that this
was because God was not in their midst. However, surely the skeptics among them
may have retorted that the very idea of conquering the land of Canaan was
futile from the start (see Bamidbar13:31-33). <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Furthermore,
at the beginning of the fortieth year, the entire Israelite nation was
challenged by the army of <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Edom</st1:place></st1:country-region>,
demanding that they not dare trespass their land (see Bamidbar 20:14-21).
Instead of fighting, Moshe led them along a lengthy 'by-pass road'.
Surely, many of the 'right-wingers' among the people viewed this as a sign of
weakness. If they couldn't stand up to the threats of Edom, how could
they stand up to the threats of all the nations of Canaan!<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Finally, it
may look a little suspicious that Moshe's encouraging words that the time has
now come to conquer the land just so happens to coincide with his announcement
of retirement! <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Any (or all)
of the above reasons may have raised doubts among the people. This
background can help us appreciate which Moshe Rabeinu chooses to include
in this opening speech - for his primary concern is to allay these fears by explaining
the divine reason for those actions:<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>1) The 'maapllim' lost because God was not in their
midst (see 1:42)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>2) We didn't trespass Edom, for 'family' reasons (see
2:4-8)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>3) We didn't trespass Moav for similar reasons (see
2:9-12)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>4) We waited forty years because of "chet
ha'mergalim (see 2:13-17)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>5) We didn’t' attack Amon for divine reasons as
well (see 2:18-23)<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> After
explaining the real reasons for what only appeared to be a military weakness,
the next section of Moshe's speech will detail how Bnei Yisrael achieved
remarkable success in their military campaign against Sichon & Og (see 2:24
thru 3:20). <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><b><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt;font-weight:bold'>THE PEP-TALK<o:p></o:p></span></font></b></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Review the
story of this war in 2:24 - 3:20 noting how we find many more details than were
recorded in the parallel account in Bamdibar 21:21-35. The reason why is
simple, for that battle is Moshe's best proof (for this new generation) that
God is indeed capable of helping them, and hence - 'no need to fear'. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Even the
settlement of the two and half tribes in Transjordan (see 3:12-20) is presented
in a positive light, for it provides addition support to Moshe's claim that it
is indeed possible to successfully conquer the mighty nations of Canaan. Moshe
presents those events to show that battle against Canaan has already begun, and
thus far has been quite successful! Crossing the Jordan, and entering the
land won't be something 'new', but rather a continuation of the task that has
already been partially fulfilled.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Simply note,
how Moshe concludes this section of this speech with these words of
encouragement:<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:17.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt'>"And I commanded Yehoshua at that time,
saying: '<b><span style='font-weight:bold'>Your own eyes have seen</span></b>
all that Hashem has done unto these two kings; so shall the LORD do unto all
the kingdoms where you go<a name=22></a>. You shall not fear them; for the LORD
your God, He it is that fights for you." (see 3:21-22)<span
style='letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p></o:p></span></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> In case you
didn't notice, we just reached the conclusion of Parshat Devarim. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> In Parshat
Ve'etchanan, Moshe will continue this speech, by explaining why he himself will
not be coming with them (once again, for divine reasons/ see 3:23-27). <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> Iy"h we
will continue this study of Moshe's opening speech in next week's shiur. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'>
Till
then, <o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> shabbat
shalom<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal><font size=1 face=Arial><span style='font-size:8.5pt;
letter-spacing:-.15pt'> menachem<o:p></o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:51.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
<p class=MsoNormal style='margin-left:51.0pt'><font size=1 face=Arial><span
style='font-size:8.5pt;letter-spacing:-.15pt'><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p>
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