Pathways to the Soul
Illuminating teachings and insights on the weekly Parsha of Rabbi Yoram Michael Abargel Zt”l
From the weekly lessons of his son Rabbi Yisrael Abargel Shlita
Ki Tavo | Vidui-Confession – Ever Closer to G-d
פרשת כי תבוא | אנגלית
In this week’s Parsha, we read about the mitzvah of Vidui Ma’aser, the confession made after giving all the tithes. The Torah commands us to declare before Hashem that we have fulfilled all our obligations regarding the tithes, and then to beseech Hashem for blessing. This confession is unique in that it is not a confession of sin, but rather a declaration of fulfillment of mitzvot.
The Sages teach us that this declaration brings a person ever closer to Hashem. When a person can stand before Hashem and say, “I have done all that You have commanded me,” it is a moment of great spiritual elevation. It is a time when a person feels the closeness of Hashem and the joy of having fulfilled His will.
The Power of Vidui
Vidui, confession, is generally associated with repentance and atonement for sin. However, in the case of Vidui Ma’aser, it is a positive confession, a declaration of having done what is right. This teaches us that confession is not only about admitting our faults, but also about recognizing and affirming our achievements in serving Hashem.
When we acknowledge the good that we have done, we strengthen our connection to Hashem and inspire ourselves to continue on the path of righteousness. This positive reinforcement is essential for spiritual growth.
Ever Closer to G-d
The act of confessing our fulfillment of mitzvot brings us closer to Hashem. It is an expression of our desire to do His will and to live according to His commandments. This closeness is the ultimate goal of our service to Hashem.
May we merit to always fulfill Hashem’s commandments with joy and sincerity, and may our confessions, both of our shortcomings and our achievements, bring us ever closer to Him.
