Parashat Eikev 5782

by Rabbi Margie Cella

Moses’ discourse to the nation continues as they are poised to enter the promised land. He exhorts them to remember the deliverance from Egypt and the 40 years in the desert; they are reminded of the tablets that Moshe angrily smashed upon seeing the golden calf, and the many times that they tried both Moses’ and God’s patience. Moses’ recounts his intercession with God on their behalf: “… they are your people and your inheritance, which you brought out by your mighty power and by your outstretched arm.” (9:29) 

They are reminded of the loving care God gave them: their clothes never wore out and feet never swelled (8:4). 

Moses exhorts them multiple times not to forsake God for the other nations’ gods; this will bring severe punishment. Conversely, obeying the commandments and keeping the covenant will bring a multitude of blessings: God will love and multiply them; bless their children, flocks, and produce; there will be no barrenness or sickness in them or their animals (7:12-16). 

Finally, Moses offers encouragement by telling them that the land that God is bringing them into is a good land (8:7); they should not be afraid to enter it, and they must remember to thank and bless God for all these blessings that will be bestowed on them (8:10). 

We, too, are called upon to remain faithful to the covenant, and we, too, can draw strength and encouragement from the blessings that God continues to bestow on us to this day: Chazak v’Ematz.