Sefer Devorim begins with Moshe Rabbeinu’s review of the Torah and the national history from the time of Yetziyas Mitzrayim until the present. Rashi comments that in addressing the nation before his death, Moshe also translated the Torah into all 70 languages, which is difficult to understand. At this point in time, all the Jewish people were gathered together in the same place, and all of them spoke the same language. What was Moshe’s purpose in translating the Torah for them into so many other languages?
The Kesav Sofer explains that Moshe’s intention in translating the Torah into every language was to teach them a critical lesson: No matter where a Jew finds himself, and no matter what language he may be speaking, the Torah is still relevant and applicable to him. The Torah’s laws and messages are universal and apply in every situation, independent of the passage of time or the changing of languages and customs.
Rabbi Chaim Zvi Senter adds that Parshas Devorim is always read during the summer, a time when this concept is particularly relevant, as many families are already on vacation or about to embark upon one, and yeshiva students begin their 3-week intersession after Tisha B’Av. While we are away from our homes and our familiar routines, it is essential to bear in mind the Kesav Sofer’s message that the Torah’s laws and guidelines are applicable no matter where life may take us. (R’ Ozer Alport)
