Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 29:14 mean when it says 'with him that is not here with us this day'?
A: According to Rashi and other traditional Jewish commentators, this verse teaches that the covenant at Mount Sinai included not only those physically present but also all future generations of the Jewish people. The Talmud (Shevuot 39a) explains this concept as 'all souls were present at Sinai,' meaning every Jewish soul that would ever exist was spiritually included in this eternal covenant with Hashem.
Q: Why is this verse important in Judaism?
A: This verse is fundamental because it establishes that the Torah's commandments and covenant apply to all Jews throughout history, not just those who stood at Mount Sinai. The Rambam (Maimonides) emphasizes in his writings that this principle forms the basis for our obligation to keep mitzvot today, as we too were included in that original covenant.
Q: How does Deuteronomy 29:14 apply to Jews today?
A: The verse reminds us that we are bound by the same Torah obligations as our ancestors. As the Midrash Tanchuma explains, just as those present at Sinai accepted the Torah, so too do we reaffirm this acceptance daily through our actions. This is why we say in prayers 'our God and God of our fathers,' connecting ourselves to that original covenant.
Q: What lesson can we learn from 'with him that is not here with us this day'?
A: The Sforno teaches that this phrase reminds us of our collective responsibility as a people. Even when individual Jews are physically or spiritually distant ('not here'), they remain part of our nation's covenant. This inspires us to reach out to others and help them reconnect with Torah observance.
Q: Does this verse mean converts to Judaism are included in the Sinai covenant?
A: Yes, the Talmud (Yevamot 47a) and later authorities like the Rambam explain that converts are considered to have been spiritually present at Sinai. When someone converts properly according to halacha, they become full members of the Jewish people and are included in this eternal covenant mentioned in our verse.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Devarim 29:14) appears in Parashat Nitzavim, where Moshe Rabbeinu addresses Bnei Yisrael before his passing, reaffirming the covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people. The phrase emphasizes the inclusivity of the covenant, extending beyond those physically present to future generations.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Devarim 29:14) interprets "וְאֵת אֲשֶׁר אֵינֶנּוּ פֹּה עִמָּנוּ הַיּוֹם" ("and also with him that is not here with us this day") as referring to future generations. He explains that the covenant includes all Jewish souls, even those not yet born, as the Torah was given not only for those standing at Har Sinai but for all descendants. This aligns with the Talmudic principle (Shevuot 39a) that "all Jews are guarantors for one another."
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Ibn Ezra's Perspective
Ibn Ezra suggests that the phrase may also include those who were physically absent at that moment, such as individuals who were ill or occupied with other mitzvot. This teaches that the covenant's obligations apply universally, regardless of one's immediate presence or circumstances.
Midrashic Interpretation
The Midrash (Tanchuma, Nitzavim 3) expands on this idea, stating that even the souls of future converts were present at Har Sinai in a spiritual sense. This underscores the eternal and all-encompassing nature of the Torah's covenant, binding every Jew—past, present, and future—to its teachings.
Rambam's Halachic Insight
Rambam (Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 8:1) derives from this verse that every Jew must view themselves as if they personally stood at Har Sinai and accepted the Torah. This principle reinforces the idea of collective responsibility and the timeless relevance of the covenant.
Key Themes