Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean to 'walk in God's ways' according to Deuteronomy 8:6?
A: The phrase 'to walk in His ways' means to emulate God's attributes of kindness and compassion, as taught by our Sages (Talmud, Sotah 14a). Just as God clothes the naked, visits the sick, and comforts mourners (based on Genesis 3:21, 18:1), we too should practice these acts of kindness (Rambam, Hilchot De'ot 1:6).
Q: Why is fearing God mentioned together with keeping commandments in this verse?
A: The Torah connects fear of Heaven (yirat Shamayim) with mitzvah observance because proper fulfillment requires both love and awe of God (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 2:1-2). Fear prevents us from transgressing, while love inspires us to perform commandments with joy (Deuteronomy 10:12, Rashi there).
Q: How can we practically apply Deuteronomy 8:6 in daily life?
A: We apply this verse by: 1) Carefully observing mitzvot between man and God (like Shabbat and kosher) and between people (like charity and honest business), 2) Developing good character traits (derech eretz) as God's representatives, and 3) Maintaining awareness that all actions should be for Heaven's sake (Talmud, Berachot 17a, Pirkei Avot 2:12).
Q: What's the significance of the word 'therefore' at the beginning of Deuteronomy 8:6?
A: Rashi explains this connects to the previous verses about God's care in the wilderness. Since God provided manna and protected us (Deuteronomy 8:3-5), 'therefore' we must reciprocate through loyal service (Rashi on 8:6). The Sforno adds that proper appreciation of God's kindness naturally leads to devoted observance.
Q: How do Jewish sources define 'fear of God' from this verse?
A: Jewish tradition identifies two levels: 1) Basic fear of punishment (important for beginners), and 2) Higher fear of God's greatness - feeling awe before the King of Kings (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah 2:1-2). The Talmud says proper fear means resisting sin even when no human is watching (Pesachim 22b).
Understanding the Verse
The verse "וְשָׁמַרְתָּ אֶת־מִצְוֺת יְהוָה אֱלֹהֶיךָ לָלֶכֶת בִּדְרָכָיו וּלְיִרְאָה אֹתוֹ" (Devarim 8:6) encapsulates three fundamental aspects of Avodas Hashem (service of G-d): observing mitzvos, emulating Divine attributes, and cultivating yiras Shamayim (fear of Heaven). These elements are interconnected and form the foundation of a Torah life.
1. Observing the Mitzvos (וְשָׁמַרְתָּ אֶת־מִצְוֺת יְהוָה אֱלֹהֶיךָ)
Rashi explains that "שָׁמַרְתָּ" (you shall keep) implies not only performing the mitzvos but also safeguarding them diligently to prevent neglect or transgression. The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 1:7) emphasizes that mitzvos are the practical expressions of our relationship with Hashem, binding us to His will.
2. Walking in His Ways (לָלֶכֶת בִּדְרָכָיו)
The Rambam (Hilchos De'os 1:6) interprets this as imitating Hashem's middos (attributes), such as being compassionate, kind, and just, as derived from the pasuk "וְהָלַכְתָּ בִּדְרָכָיו" (Devarim 28:9). The Talmud (Sotah 14a) elaborates that just as Hashem clothes the naked (Bereishis 3:21), visits the sick (Bereishis 18:1), and comforts mourners (Bereishis 25:11), so too must we emulate these actions.
3. Fearing Hashem (וּלְיִרְאָה אֹתוֹ)
The Mesillas Yesharim (Chapter 24) defines yirah as a profound awareness of Hashem's presence, leading to awe and caution in our actions. The Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 2:2) distinguishes between basic fear of punishment and the higher level of yirah—revering Hashem's greatness.
Synthesis of the Three Elements
The Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 418) connects these three aspects: mitzvos are the actions, walking in Hashem's ways refines our character, and yirah provides the spiritual motivation. Together, they create a complete framework for serving Hashem—through deeds, mindset, and heartfelt reverence.