The Torah's last parshat. Deuteronomy is the last book. V'Zot Ha-Berakah is the last portion. The Jews have entered Israel and God lets Moses bless the people. Moses blesses each tribe of Israelites as he lays on Mount Nebo. Moses committed sin in his lifetime not allowing him to go into the land. Moses did get a glimspe over all of Israel. I personally feel that was very fair of God.
Then, Moses blesses the whole land of Israel. He says, "O happy Israel! Who is like you, A people delivered by the Lord, Your protecting Shield, your Sword triumphant! Your enemies shall come cringing before you, and you shall tread on their backs." (Deuteronomy 33:29). To me this means Moses ordered us to protect the land. Israel is the world's third strongest military. Does Moses keep that going?
To me Israel's strength is the drive. For a small country it is filled with nationalism. To fight for the holy land is something most would consider a great honor.
Did God choose Israel's location on purpose? In my mind, God knows all that has happened and all that will happen. When God was bringing the Israel's people accross the desert I think the future was in mind. To me, God would know that Israel would eventually be surrounded by all prodomately Arab countries. The only thing I think God cannot control is free-will.
We have fufilled the task that Moses gave us. Moses says "Your protecting shield" before Your sword triumphant". This means that peace should always come before the sword. Sword came first and failed to do anything. Israel was attacked almost immediately after it gained independence. Now, the protecting shield of the strong zionist military saved Israel and the smart, progressive leaders pushed Israel into a more peaceful future. I feel that is why Iran has been very hesitent. Is it not amazing what a small country can do with the power and covenent of God?
I think you need to look more into the history of peace and what it means to Israel. It is a very complex situation that will need lots of study over time. But you are up to the challenge.
ReplyDeleteFor those of you who do not know, next week is Adam's Bar Mitzvah. He will be reading the first portion of the Torah, Braishit!!!! Go Get Em Adam!!!
Happy Birthhday and the big day is 3 days away!
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