22 Questions
What was the purpose of Moshe's final speech to the Bnei Yisrael?
To recount their history, remind them of Hashem's miracles and their complaints, and to remind them of their obligations to Hashem.
What are the three types of mitzvot in the Torah?
Mishpatim, Edot, and Chukim
What is the primary reason for keeping the mitzvot according to the Torah?
For our good
What is an example of a mitzvah that is a Chok?
Keeping kosher
What does Moshe's final speech reveal about his leadership?
It reveals his dedication to ensuring the Bnei Yisrael's obedience to Hashem and their preparedness to enter the Promised Land.
What is the purpose of Edot in Judaism?
To mark an occasion or testify to an idea
How does Moshe's speech relate to the concept of Dina demalchuta dina?
It emphasizes the importance of obeying the laws of the land, as the Bnei Yisrael prepare to enter the Promised Land.
What is the difference between a rule and a law?
A rule is a general guideline, while a law is a specific, authoritative regulation
What is an example of a scenario where a Jew may need to choose between following the Torah law or the country's law?
If the government outlaws Shechitah, a Jew may need to decide between breaking the law to keep kosher or giving up kosher meat
What is an example of a mitzvah that promotes self-discipline?
Keeping kosher
How can keeping the mitzvot benefit individuals and society?
By promoting self-discipline, respect for authority, and community cohesion
What does the term 'Dina demalchuta dina' mean?
The law of the land is binding, meaning Jews are subject to the laws of the country in which they reside.
When is there an exception to the principle of Dina demalchuta dina?
If a secular law would require someone to break a Torah law, the principle of Dina demalchuta dina does not apply, unless a person or a community's life would be at risk.
How should Jews protest if they think a law is unfair?
The question does not provide a specific answer, but it can be implied that Jews should protest peacefully and within the bounds of the law, while also upholding Jewish values and principles.
What are four British values?
The four British values mentioned are democracy, individual liberty, the rule of law, and mutual respect and tolerance of those with different faiths and belief.
Where did Hashem tell Moshe to ascend?
Hashem told Moshe to ascend Mount Nevo.
What did Hashem show Moshe on Mount Nevo?
Hashem showed Moshe all the Land, from Gilead until Dan.
Why did Hashem not want anyone to know where Moshe was buried?
The Torah does not provide a specific answer, but it can be inferred that it was to prevent the creation of a cult or idolatry around Moshe's grave.
How old was Moshe when he died?
Moshe was 120 years old when he died.
How might Moshe have felt on Mount Nevo, overlooking the land he would never enter?
Moshe might have felt a sense of sadness, longing, and perhaps even frustration, knowing that he would not enter the Promised Land.
What does the Torah's account of Moshe's burial site reveal about the Jewish approach to leadership?
That the Jewish approach to leadership is not about idolizing or worshiping individuals, but rather about serving Hashem.
What was unique about Moshe's prophetic abilities compared to other prophets?
Moshe saw what G-d was telling him with the clarity of literal vision, whereas other prophets only received their communiqués by way of riddles and parables.
Study Notes
Moshe's Final Speech
- Moshe gathers all of Bnei Yisrael together and recounts their history, miracles, and complaints.
- He reminds them of the mitzvot they have been given and the Ten Commandments that summarize them all.
- Moshe tells them that Hashem demands only that they fear Him, walk in His ways, love Him, and serve Him with all their heart and soul.
Types of Mitzvot
- There are three types of mitzvot in the Torah:
- Mishpatim: basic laws necessary for civilization to function (e.g., don't steal, don't murder).
- Edot: commandments that testify to an idea or mark an occasion (e.g., celebrating freedom from slavery in Egypt).
- Chukim: laws that are difficult to understand, but express commitment to belief in Hashem (e.g., keeping kosher).
Keeping Mitzvot
- The Torah gives the reason for keeping mitzvot as "for your good."
- Examples of mitzvot that benefit people include:
- Kashrut: self-discipline in controlling what and when to eat.
- Shabbat: rest and relaxation.
- Honoring parents: respect for authority and family.
- Tzedakah: charity and kindness.
- Some mitzvot may be difficult to understand how they are for our good, but they should still be kept.
Dina Demalchuta Dina
- The principle of "the law of the land is binding" means Jews are subject to the laws of the country they reside in.
- Exceptions to this principle include:
- If a secular law contradicts a Torah law, the Torah law takes precedence.
- If a person or community's life is at risk, they may act against a secular law.
British Values and Jewish Values
- British values include democracy, individual liberty, the rule of law, mutual respect, and tolerance.
- These values are also part of Jewish values, which include upholding the law of the land (Dina demalchuta dina).
Moshe's Death
- Hashem tells Moshe to ascend Mount Nevo, where he will die before Bnei Yisrael enter the Promised Land.
- Moshe sees the entire Land of Israel from the top of Mount Nevo.
- He dies at the age of 120, with his eyes undimmed and his vitality unlost.
Uniqueness of Moshe
- Moshe is considered the greatest of all prophets, with a unique relationship with Hashem.
- He is called Moshe Rabeinu, "Moshe our teacher," and is seen as a humble and modest leader.
- Moshe's burial site is unknown, possibly to prevent idolatry or to emphasize his humble nature.
Moshe's final speech to the Bnei Yisrael before they enter the Promised Land, recounting their 40 years of history together in the desert. He reminds them of Hashem's miracles and their complaints.
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