Shabbat Greetings
This week’s Torah portion, Re’eh (Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17)begins with a powerful invitation: “See (Re’eh), I place before you today a blessing and a curse.” (11:26) The Torah does not say, “Listen,” or “Understand.” It says, “See.” Seeing requires more than hearing words. It asks us to perceive reality clearly. It challenges us to look honestly at ourselves, our choices, and the direction of our lives.
This message is especially fitting as we approach the month of Elul, the season of spiritual preparation leading to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Elul is traditionally a time of cheshbon hanefesh, an accounting of the soul. Like the opening of Re’eh, Elul asks us to “see”: What habits have brought blessing into our lives? Which patterns have led us away from God’s purposes? Where do we need to change course?
Throughout Re’eh, Moses reminds Israel that blessings are not merely rewards but the fruit of living in covenant with God. The repeated emphasis on choosing, obeying, and worshiping God wholeheartedly teaches that our everyday decisions shape who we become. We are not simply passengers carried along by circumstance; we are participants in God’s ongoing work in the world.
Another theme in Re’eh is generosity. The Torah commands care for the poor, forgiveness of debts, and open-handed giving: “You shall surely open your hand to your needy brother and sister.” (15:11) As Elul approaches, this reminds us that repentance is not only inward reflection but outward action. The High Holy Day liturgy teaches that teshuvah (repentance), tefillah (prayer), and tzedakah (acts of justice and generosity) have the power to transform our lives. Preparing for Elul means not only examining our hearts but also opening our hands.
The Chasidic masters often taught that seeing is an act of faith (Baal Shem Tov). We learn to recognize God’s presence in the ordinary moments of life and to see the divine image in those around us. When we truly see others, compassion naturally follows. When we truly see ourselves, humility and hope grow together.
As we stand at the threshold of Elul, Re’eh reminds us that every day presents a choice between paths that bring life and paths that diminish it. The blessing is not hidden; it is placed before us. The question is whether we have the courage to see it.
May this Shabbat help us enter Elul with open eyes, honest hearts, and willing spirits. May we see where God is calling us to grow, repair what has been broken, deepen our relationships, and become channels of blessing for others. And may our journey through Elul prepare us to stand before God in the New Year with renewed faith, gratitude, and joy.
SHABBAT SHALOM