The Long Farewell

Parshat Nitzavim
Deuteronomy 29:9-30:20

Synopsis: 

Moses continues his farewell to the people.  He tells them that this day they stand before God concluding their covenant.  Moses informs the people that the covenant is not only made with them, but also with those not present.  All Israel past, present, and future is bound to the covenant for all time.

Moses foretells of a future rebellion against God's covenant and describes the evils that will then befall the Israelites.  After a time, the people will repent and God will restore them back to the Land in blessing.

The portion closes with Moses telling the people that they have a choice between life and prosperity or death and adversity.  In choosing to obey God's commandments, the people choose life and will be able to enjoy the land that God promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Some questions for your dinner table:

1. In Nitzavim, we are told that the laws of the Torah that we are to know and observe is not beyond anyone's reach, that everyone is capable of knowing and understanding it.  How do you learn about Jewish tradition?  Do your classes in Religious School provide you with all the skills and knowledge you need to live as a Jew?  How else will you continue to learn?
2. According to the text, Moses spoke to the people, telling them he had reached the age of 120.  Even today, when we are wishing health and good fortune to people we know, we will often say "May you live to 120 years."  Why might we use Moses's age and not the length of the lives of other important people from our tradition?  

And now, a Torah toon for you: