This week we read two Torah portions, the first is Nitzavim, translated as standing. The second is Vayelech, translated as walking forward. These portions are often read together and bring with them a joint message about how we, G-d’s people, are meant to move through this world..

G-d is a solid anchor, He is eternal and unchanging. Within G-d’s reality, there is only one truth, the truth of the Torah, there is no doubt, no lack, no pain, no suffering. We are encouraged to ‘stand together today’ within G- ’s solidity. The way we access that channel of reality is through following the teachings and commandments of G-d’s Torah. Some question why the Torah is so detailed in its commandments, why it appears so complex at times. The reason is that Torah is the exact recipe that G-d, in His infinite knowledge, gave us for reaching a point of connection with Him, a connection with the Eternal. We may believe that we know better, that when something appears illogical, there may be a better way to perform the commandment. However we then limit ourselves to our human interpretation of the Divine, we fall short of reaching the point of Nitzavim, standing with G- d, and therefore we limit the flow of Divine blessings that elevate us out of our painful and mundane struggles.. 

When we find our anchor and stand firmly with G-d, united as a people, united with our Creator, we can enter the stage of Vayelech, walking with G-d. Imagine the different experience of entering our day, our workspace, our home, our reality in a grounded manner. Imbued with a sense of confidence in our life choices. Feeling supported and connected to the Eternal reality of G-d’s vision for our existence. The steps we take through life become more meaningful, more centered; more G-d oriented. The worries that plague us around finances, health and relationships fade as we hold ourselves in a place of faith, as we feel the fountainhead of G-d’s blessing pouring down upon us constantly.

May we be blessed to enrich our relationships with G-d through His Torah and commandments, and walk through the days of our lives with joy, meaning, confidence and faith.

Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Zushe Cunin