Deuteronomy 9:6 - Land: merit or Divine grace?

The Nature of the Gift of the Land

The verse (Devarim 9:6) emphasizes that the inheritance of Eretz Yisrael is not due to the righteousness of Bnei Yisrael, but rather an act of divine grace. Rashi explains that this serves as a warning against arrogance—lest the people think their merits earned them the land. The Torah reminds them of their stubborn nature ("עַם־קְשֵׁה־עֹרֶף") to humble them and reinforce that the gift is undeserved.

The Concept of "Am Kshei Oref" (A Stiffnecked People)

Rambam (Hilchot Teshuvah 3:7) discusses the term "stiffnecked" as referring to a resistance to moral correction. The Talmud (Beitzah 25b) similarly interprets it as a people who "turn their necks away" from rebuke. This characteristic is not merely a critique but also reflects the tenacity of Bnei Yisrael in clinging to their identity despite challenges—a trait that, when properly directed, becomes a virtue.

The Land as a Divine Covenant, Not a Reward

The Sforno notes that the verse underscores the land was given as part of Hashem’s covenant with the Avot (Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov), not as a transactional reward. The Midrash (Devarim Rabbah 3:6) elaborates that even when Bnei Yisrael falter, the merit of the forefathers ensures their continued connection to the land, provided they ultimately return to Torah.

Practical Lessons from the Verse

• Humility: The Ibn Ezra teaches that recognizing one’s flaws prevents arrogance in spiritual achievement.
• Gratitude: The Kli Yakar stresses that the land is a matnat chinam (free gift), obligating us to serve Hashem with gratitude.
• Teshuvah: The "stiffnecked" description implies the need for constant self-improvement, as noted by the Alshich.