This weeks parsha, Ki Savo, is always read on the second shabbos before Rosh Hashanah. There must be a message here to help us, in preparation for the great day.
The parsha opens with the mitzva of bikurim, first fruits.
First fruits were marked, later to be brought in a basket to the temple and placed near the alter. The cohen would then enjoy the fruit.
The wealthy brought their fruits in a silver basket, while the common folk brought theirs in wicker baskets. Those who brought silver baskets would later take them home. However, those who brought wicker baskets, would leave them in the temple.
One would think that it should be the other way around. The wealthy, who could afford it, should leave their silver baskets. The poor, who struggle, should be able to take their baskets home.
For the wealthy businessman the mitzva if bikurim was special. Being busy, he didn't have time. He just grabbed his silver basket, put the fruit in and went.
For the common folk, this mitzva was so precious. The thrill inside, "I get to bring a gift to the temple". Lovingly they handcrafted their baskets, especially for this mitzva.
These wicker baskets were so precious to HaShem because of all the love, time and effort that went into them. Therefore, He wanted them. The silver baskets, beautiful as they are, did not have the same love, time and effort. Therefore, take them home.
How will you prepare for Rosh Hashanah? Will you lovingly collect your fruit? Will you take the time to consider your past years performance of mitzvah and how you will improve in the coming year? Will you spend time preparing yourself for the holiday or will you just show up?
Your effort is important and precious to HaShem. He wants it, He appreciates it, He loves it.
The same is true for our relationships. In our busy lives many of our gestures are last minute. Nice as they are, they are not the same as those we put time and effort into. While both are positive, the effort, time and love adds dimension, depth, and meaning. Try it, and you will see.
Have a happy and sweet New Year.
Yosef Yitzchak Hurwits, Thank you again for your observations on the weekly Parsha. I explore my strengths and weaknesses on a regular basis. I desire to be a better man. I will do a better job of preparing for these days ahead thanks to your reminder. Dr John
ReplyDeleteThank you and bless, Rabbi Hurwitz, you gave me the chills and made so clear as to what our frame of mind should be.
ReplyDeleteHi Rabbi, if possible we should all listen to the call of the shofar everyday , the entire month of Elul. To me it is daily reminder to wake up and take stock of the year, and prepare for new one. Only good things for you and the family for 5775!
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