Understanding the Parsha according to the Rebbe ממ"ש
QUESTION: Why does the Torah say “journeys” (plural) going out of Egypt (מצרים) when we left only once?
Many levels of מצרים (limitations) exist for a person. In our life, one needs to continually journey beyond one’s limits. Even at the completion of one journey, one must be ready to begin a new journey. Our life involves constant movement, we do not sit still. One needs to be aware that this is a function of life and should not despair at the constant struggle. (Likutei Sichos vol. 34, p. 349)
QUESTION: What is the significance that the division of Eretz Yisrael is done by a goral?
Acquisition by the goral displays that it depends solely on the Giver. Every Jew has an inheritance. יש ששים רבוא אותיות לתורה. Each equally obligated to learn Torah. מורשה קהלת יעקב. Does not depend on the status of the receiver; but needs to be related. ירושה. Acquired by understanding as a result of service and diligence; distinction between each Jew as to involvement. מכרתי לכם תורתי. Buyer needs to pay the price. מכירה. Gift from Above in the portions of Torah; not accessible through human strivings. Depends only on the Giver. מתן תורתינו. Receiver needs no connection to the giver; up to the goodness of the giver. מתנה או גורל. (Likutei Sichos vol. 13, p. 114)
QUESTION: Why does Rambam in Halacha, bring the 123 years of Aharon’s life as a sign for the 123 הללוי' in Hallel?
Life of Aharon “lover of the Jews” expresses the unity that the Jews seek in Hallel, by acknowledging the actions of HaShem on our behalf. (Likutei Sichos vol. 23, p. 229)
QUESTION: What is the connection between the period that an accidental killer must remain in the city of Refuge and the life of the Cohen Gadol?
The accidental killer and the Cohen Gadol represent opposite sides of the sensitivity spectrum. Nevertheless, the Cohen Gadol needs to pray for the atonement of the accidental killer for complete atonement. This shows the depth of Ahavas Yisrael that we all need to complete our own life. (Likutei Sichos vol. 33, p. 206)
QUESTION: Why does Rashi in the description of the borders of Eretz Yisrael not use the Torah word of גבול and instead use the word מצר?
Rashi changes to the word מצר to emphasize that the actual boundaries show the distinction between Eretz Yisrael and the lands outside it, similar to the concept of בין המצרים restrictions which allow access to the wider areas beyond (מרחב י"ה). (Likutei Sichos vol. 38, p. 122)
