This week we read in Parshat Ki Tavo about Bikkurim, the first fruit offerings Jewish farmers in the Holy Land were commanded to bring in thanksgiving to G‑d for the land and its produce. On a basic level, Bikkurim remind us never to become ungrateful for the ways we have been blessed in life.
Interestingly, the law of Bikkurim didn’t come into effect until fourteen years after the Jewish people entered the Promised Land. It took seven years to conquer it and another seven to distribute the land amongst the twelve tribes of Israel. Only when that process was completed did the law of the first fruits become applicable.
Why? There were quite a few tribes who were settled earlier. No doubt, some of the farmers who had received their allotted land had planted and seen the first fruits of their labors. Why then were they not required to show their appreciation immediately by bringing the Bikkurim offering? The reason for this comes from another part of the Torah which says, "And you shall rejoice with all the good that the Lord your G‑d has given you." In order to be able to fully experience the joy of one’s own blessings in life, a Jew must know that his brothers and sisters have been blessed as well. As long as one Jew knew that there were others who had not yet been settled in their land, he or she could not be fully content. Since simchah, genuine joy, was a necessary component in the mitzvah of Bikkurim, it could only be fulfilled when everyone had been satisfied. Only then can a one experience true simchah, a sincere and genuine joy.
So, if you have a job, think of someone who doesn't and try to help them. We must make an effort to not only help our Jewish brothers and sisters but everyone living in our community who aren’t as fortunate as us. As the holiday season is almost upon us, if you will be privileged enough to be able buy new outfits for your family, spare a thought for those who cannot contemplate such a luxury and donate clothes to those who need them. When you plan your festive holiday meals with your family and friends, remember to invite the lonely, the widow and the single parent, too. In this merit, please G‑d, we will all be blessed with a joyous and sweet new year.
9:00 AM Nosh and Drosh 9:45 AM Shabbat with Kiddush generously sponsored by Phyllis & Fred Cohen, Richard & Sherry Skolnik, and Elaine & Jesse Scharf 9:00 PM Selichot Program 10:00 PM Selichot Service
Sunday
9:00 AM Minyan 8:00 PM Minyan requested by Elayne Berkowitz
Monday
9:00 AM Minyan requested by Elayne Berkowitz 8:00 PM Minyan requested by Susan Gardner
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