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This week’s Torah portion, Devorim, is always read on the Shabbos immediately preceding the fast of Tisha B’Av. The holy Sheloh teaches that the weekly Torah portion is always connected to the time of the year in which we read it[1]. Based on this, there must be a connection between Parshas Devorim and Tisha B’Av. We need to understand what this connection is.
Rashi tells us at the beginning of our Torah portion, that even at the same time that Hashem is rebuking the Jews, He is also concerned with their honor. Rashi cites the words from the first verse of our Parshah[2], “These are the words.” He comments that “these are words of rebuke, and here Moshe lists all of the places where the Jews angered Hashem. Therefore, the Torah does not explicitly mention their transgressions. Rather, it alludes to their sins by mentioning the names of the places where they angered G-d. This is done out of respect for the Jews.”
Why is there this concern for the Jews’ honor at the time that He rebukes them? Because, the goal of rebuking them is in order to elevate them; i.e., in order to add to their honor. This teaches us that at the time of exile, the Jews’ glory is apparent. The reason for the exile and destruction which is commemorated on Tisha B’Av is the redemption which will ultimately be enjoyed. The exile itself is an expression of Geulah.
We find the same idea in the book of Eichoh, Lamentations[3]. It begins with the words “O how has the city that was once so populous (Jerusalem) remained alone!” There is something very positive about “remaining alone.” We see this in the prophecy that the Jews are[4] “a nation that will dwell alone and will not be reckoned among the nations.” The fact that Jerusalem “remained alone,” and the Jews “dwell alone” means that the Jews will not mix with idolaters. It is indicative of the time of redemption.
Even at times when things may not seem all that positive, we can be certain that all is well. Nothing negative descends from above. The exile itself is a preparation for and a step toward the redemption. Wishing one and all a good Shabbos! May we merit the time of the complete and true redemption now!
Rabbi Shmuel Mendelsohn
Adapted from Likkutei Sichos Volume 14, Page 7
DEDICATED IN HONOR OF THE LUBAVITCHER REBBE
מוקדש לזכות כ”ק אדמו”ר נשיא דורנו מליובאוויטש
IN HONOR OF
The Soldiers of Tzivos Hashem Chaim and Aiden Oded שיחיו Morris
DEDICATED BY THEIR PARENTS
Rabbi & Mrs. Menachem M. and Chaya Mushka שיחיו Morris
לזכות
חיילי “צבאות השם” חיים ועדן עודד שיחיו מאריס
נדפס ע”י הוריהם
הרה”ת ר’ מנחם מענדל וזוגתו מרת חי’ מושקא שיחיו מאריס
[1]. Sheloh at the beginning of Parshas Vayeishev. See also Zohar volume 2 page 206, b.
[2]. Parshas Devorim, Devorim 1:1.
[3]. As implied by its name, this book of the Bible laments the destruction of the Holy Temple and the ensuing exile. It is read as part of the service on Tisha B’Av.
[4]. Parshas Balak, Bamidbar 23:9.
The Rebbe Teaches Rashi 