Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Deuteronomy 6:1 mean?
A: Deuteronomy 6:1 introduces the commandments, statutes, and judgments that Hashem commanded Moshe to teach Bnei Yisrael. These laws were given to guide them in living a holy life in Eretz Yisrael (the Land of Israel), which they were about to enter and inherit. Rashi explains that this verse emphasizes the importance of both learning and doing the mitzvot (commandments) in the land.
Q: Why is Deuteronomy 6:1 important?
A: This verse is important because it sets the foundation for the Jewish people's obligation to observe Torah laws in their own land. The Rambam (Maimonides) teaches that the mitzvot are deeply connected to living in Eretz Yisrael, as many commandments can only be fully observed there. This verse reminds us that Torah is not just theoretical but must be practiced in daily life.
Q: What can we learn from Deuteronomy 6:1 today?
A: We learn that Torah is meant to be lived, not just studied. The Sages teach that the mitzvot apply in all generations, whether in Eretz Yisrael or the diaspora. This verse reminds us to actively fulfill Hashem’s commandments with the intention of sanctifying our lives and the world around us, just as our ancestors did when entering the land.
Q: What are the 'commandments, statutes, and judgments' mentioned in this verse?
A: The 'commandments' (mitzvot) refer to the direct instructions from Hashem, 'statutes' (chukim) are laws whose reasons may not be fully understood (like kashrut), and 'judgments' (mishpatim) are logical laws (like civil justice). The Talmud (Sanhedrin 56b) explains that these categories encompass all aspects of Torah law, guiding both our relationship with Hashem and with others.
Q: How does this verse connect to the Shema, which follows later in Deuteronomy 6?
A: Deuteronomy 6:1 introduces the broader context of mitzvot, leading into the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-9), which emphasizes loving Hashem and keeping His commandments. The Midrash (Sifrei) teaches that this verse sets the stage for the fundamental principles of Jewish faith and practice, showing that accepting mitzvot is an expression of our bond with Hashem.
Overview of the Verse
The verse (Devarim 6:1) introduces the foundational commandments, statutes, and judgments that Hashem commanded Moshe to teach Bnei Yisrael as they prepared to enter Eretz Yisrael. This serves as a preamble to the Shema and the broader discussion of mitzvot in Sefer Devarim.
Key Terms and Their Meanings
The Purpose of the Mitzvot in Eretz Yisrael
The verse emphasizes that these laws are to be observed specifically in the land they are about to possess. The Kli Yakar explains that the mitzvot are deeply connected to the land - many commandments (like terumot, ma'aserot, and shemitah) can only be fulfilled in Eretz Yisrael. Even those mitzvot not dependent on the land take on greater spiritual significance when performed there.
The Educational Imperative
The phrase "לְלַמֵּד אֶתְכֶם" (to teach you) underscores the Torah's emphasis on education. The Rambam (Hilchot Talmud Torah 1:3) derives from here the obligation for each person to teach their children Torah. The Sifrei adds that this teaching must be thorough enough to enable proper observance ("לַעֲשׂוֹת" - that you might do them).
Historical Context
Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch notes that this verse comes as Bnei Yisrael stand ready to enter the land after 40 years in the wilderness. The repetition of mitzvot here prepares them for the transition from miraculous existence in the desert to natural life in their own land, where they must actively implement Torah law.