Nitzavim / Vayeilech
G-d handles the heart But for those things we can see The law's in our hands
Deuteronomy 29:28Concealed acts concern the Eternal out G-d; but with overt acts, it is for us and our children ever to apply all the provisions of this Torah.I found several viewpoints on the meaning (and translation) of this verse. What is translated as "concealed acts" in the URJ's Torah Commentary is translated as "hidden things" elsewhere; and "overt acts" is rendered as "that which has been revealed". The latter translations suggest that the distinction is between things in heaven (G-d's concern) and things on earth (our concern). This can be connected to the well known words of Deut 30:11-14, about which I wrote previously.But I'm drawn to the interpretation suggested by the URJ translation, which seems particularly appropriate as we prepare for the High Holy Days. During the coming weeks our liturgy will remind us that for transgressions between us and G-d (concealed acts - the heart) our prayers can bring atonement and forgiveness. But for transgressions between people (overt acts - what is "revealed") the Days of Atonement will not bring forgiveness. One must seek forgiveness from the aggrieved person, who must grant forgiveness if the request is sincere.It's up to us to apply the words of Torah with a sense of both justice and compassion - in the image of G-d. It's not too hard for us.
This week's image is from Midrash Manicures. It suggests the idea that Torah is in our hearts (our relationship with G-d) and in our hands (our relationships with others)