Time for Heels!

The word Eikev means "because" or "as a result of", as in the opening of our parsha: "As a result of your listening to these laws...."

A further meaning of the word Eikev is "heel". In the context of our verse, this has two implications:

a.) That one should be careful in observing even the relatively "minor" commandments, which one might be tempted to "trample with one's heels"

b.) Our sages referred to the period immediately preceding the coming of Moshiach as " the 'heel' of Moshiach." The Tzemach Tzedek explains that our verse alludes to the pre-messianic period when the Jewish people would eventually "listen to these laws" and return to G-d.

What is the connection between these two interpretations?

The absence of the Holy Temple clearly has a detrimental effect on the spiritual "health" of the Jewish people. In Temple times, the spiritual core of Judaism was easily accessible, and people found it simple to maintain an inspired and meaningful connection to their creator. In times of exile, however, it is a struggle merely to sustain a basic observance of the mitzvot, never mind attaining a spiritual appreciation of them.

Nevertheless, there is a unique advantage to our relatively "uninspired" exile-Judaism, which the spiritual people of the Temple era did not possess. It is we who demonstrate true commitment to Jewish values, when we remain dedicated to G-d although we are not easily inspired to love Him and fear Him. We do not see G-d, or feel G-d, for our generation is merely the "heel" of spiritual sensitivity. But that is also our advantage: We serve G-d independently of our own feelings and inspirations- and that is the hallmark of genuine commitment.

Thus, having reached "the 'heel' of Moshiach," we no longer wish to "trample" upon the minor commandments; for the distinction between "minor" and "major" is only significant for those who appreciate and understand the true worth of the mitzvos, like the Jews of the Temple era.

Our greatness, however, is our simple faith. Our unsophisticated approach to Judaism connects us to the very core of G-d's Essence which is simple and devoid of any multiplicity at all.

Shabbat Shalom!

Shabbat this week begins 7:23 PM in NYC.