Parashat Eikev
15th August 2025 (5785)
Week of 10 – 16 August 2025
Torah portion : Deut.7 :12-11 :25 ; Haftarah : Isa. 49:14-51:3
Theme: “Inspiring strength in faith and obedience as we rise
to the challenges of conquest. (דברים :7:12-16)”
In the original Hebrew language, the term “Eikev” (עקב) translates to “if,” and it can also mean “on the heels of,” suggesting a sequence or consequence of events. This word serves as a vital thematic link that connects the teachings in verse 11 to the subsequent passages, particularly in Deuteronomy 12 through 16. According to Masoretic texts, “Eikev” frames a significant literary unit that extends through Deuteronomy 8:20. Notably, both the introductory and concluding clauses of this section begin with the same Hebrew term “eikev,” which is rendered as “because” (see Deut. 8:20, p. 1042).
This passage underscores God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to the patriarchs by liberating the Israelites during the Exodus. Prophet Moses emphasizes that if the current generation obeys God’s commandments, they too will reap the benefits of those promises, just as their ancestors did.
Prophet Moses takes a reflective moment to recount the pivotal experiences that shaped the Israelites during their time in the desert. He highlights the miraculous provision of manna, which sustained them during their hardships; the tragic episode of the golden calf, which served as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience; and the profound sorrow surrounding the death of Aaron, their beloved high priest.
These reflections culminate in Prophet Moses sharing the rich blessings that God promises to bestow upon the Israelites as they earnestly strive to follow His laws. He gently admonishes them, reminding them that adherence to these commandments is crucial for avoiding the trials and tribulations that arise from disobedience. As they stand on the cusp of entering the Promised Land, Moses encourages the Israelites to learn from their past challenges and to respond to God’s call with a renewed sense of commitment and purpose. He asserts that this is a pivotal moment for this new generation of God’s people: a chance to rise and take decisive action. “… it was you who saw with your own eyes all the marvelous deeds that the Lord performed.” (Ibid. Deut. 11:7 p1051), a powerful reminder that their arduous journey has been filled with remarkable experiences of divine intervention and support, affirming their unique relationship with God as they prepare to inherit the land promised to them. (cf. Different sources and English translation; ETZ HAYIM Isa. 49:14-51:3 p1056-1060;Deut.7:12-11:25 p1029-1037;p1050- 1055;CPB, Isa. 49:14-51:3 p49;51;Deut.7:12-11:25 p6-11;NAB, Isa. 49:14-51:3 p916;918;Deut.7:12-11:25 p198-203;CSB, Isa. 49:14-51:3 p1051;1053;Deut.7:12-11:25 p233-238).
The theme of connecting past experiences to the present is a vital and constructive element in these chapters. This connection empowers individuals to embrace their identity as God’s chosen ones while uncovering renewed significance in their historical journey. In Deuteronomy, Prophet Moses revisits his instructions and laws to reignite their collective memory of key events. They need to view these moments not just as distant history, but as integral chapters in their unfolding story.
to the challenges of conquest. (דברים :7:12-16)”
Prophet Moses delineates the conditions necessary for entering and thriving in the Promised Land (Ibid. 11:1-25 p. 1050-1054). He underscores the significance of love and loyalty to God, reminding the Israelites that their experience in the Promised Land will be life-changing in comparison to their time in Egypt. In Egypt, they toiled to water their crops, but here, God promises to provide the rain needed for bountiful harvests. By committing to “obey the commandments that I enjoin upon you this day, loving the Lord your God and serving Him with all your heart and soul” (Ibid. 11:13 p. 1052), they can secure all the resources necessary for their well-being.
Moreover, God addresses the community, assuring them of His promise to meet their needs and fill their lives with abundance. He wisely encourages them to stay vigilant and avoid the distractions of other gods. By doing so, they can foster a strong, faithful community that is deeply rooted in their shared history and divine purpose, paving the way for a brighter future together. Remembering is not just about highlighting the positive moments in our history; it’s also about acknowledging our struggles and failures.
For the children of Israel, their worship of the golden calf serves as a painful reminder of their repeated infidelities to God. As Prophet Moses shares his final words with them, he offers hope and a promise: if they commit to following the commandments (mitzvot) of the Torah, they can look forward to a prosperous life in the Promised Land they are about to enter, just as God promised their ancestors. Prophet Moses speaks with heartfelt encouragement about the blessings awaiting them, while also gently reminding them that these gifts are contingent upon their faithfulness to the covenant they embraced at Mount Sinai. His words resonate with both warmth and caution, reflecting the deep bond between them and God.
One of the most meaningful days in the Jewish calendar is devoted to honoring the destruction of both Temples and recognizing the various hardships endured by the Jewish people. The Book of Deuteronomy plays a vital role among the Torah’s writings, presenting its teachings as the “words of Adonai, the LORD” (see Lev. 1:1-2, pp. 585-587; 26:46, pp. 752-753; 27:34, pp. 757; Num. 1:1, p. 769; 36:13, p. 967; Exod. 20:1, p. 441; 22, p. 464; 21:1, p. 456; 24:3, p. 477). This haftarah reflects the deep sorrow of Zion, which feels overlooked and abandoned by God in the aftermath of the Temple’s destruction in 587-586 B.C.E. and the subsequent exile to Babylon.
Yet, amidst this sense of loss, God aims to inspire hope and uplift the spirits of the people by promising divine care and the eventual return to their homeland. The connection between the Torah and the Haftarah is highlighted in Ibid. Isaiah 51:1-2 p1059, where those seeking the Lord are encouraged to look to “Abraham your father” and “Sarah who bore you,” illustrating a powerful example of enduring faith. To reinforce the nation’s resolve, the prophet concludes with a message of hope and a vision of a brighter future (Ibid. Isa. 51:3 p1060). Through these teachings, the Jewish community finds strength and encouragement, fostering a spirit of resilience and optimism (see Ibid. 51:3 Utopian vision).
For Reflection and Discussion:
- What aspect of ‘Eikev’ inspires me today to embrace the call to love God and experience the transformative power of His life-giving word?
Bibliography: ETZ HAYIM, Torah and Commentary: The Rabbinical Assembly, The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, 1999; The Catholic Study Bible 3rd Edition; The New American Bible, Saint Joseph Edition; The Catholic Prayer Bible;)www.sefaria.org.il;)www.chabad.org) /;
This week’s Parasha Commentary was prepared by
Dunhill Malunar Timkang, Jerusalem-Israel, Bat Kol Alumnus: 2023
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