From the ancient Code of Hammurabi to modern human rights declarations, systems of law focus on a few broad principles, like justice and respect. But the Torah stands apart: The commandments and community customs guide every aspect of human relationships and how we connect to G-d. Today, we can only observe a fraction of the 613 mitzvot—what would it mean to experience Torah completely?
The Rambam (in Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Melachim, Chapter 11, Halacha 1) describes the essential change that will define the Messianic Era: King Moshiach will arise and restore the kingdom of the House of David to its original state, to its first sovereignty. He will build the Temple and gather the dispersed of Israel. All the laws will return in his days as they were before: sacrifices will be offered, and the Sabbatical and Jubilee years will be observed, according to all their commandments stated in the Torah.
Restoration
Advanced humanity. Mystical revelation. Supernatural wonders. World peace. All these utopian concepts can be used to describe the coming Messianic era. But when the Rambam begins the final two chapters of his magnum opus, the Mishneh Torah, laying out the specifications of the arrival of Moshiach, he emphasizes that the ultimate expression of redemption is the resumption of the ability to completely observe all the mitzvot of the Torah.
The conclusion of the Shabbat Musaf prayer that evokes longing for this future era contains a crucial phrase: "in accordance with the commandment of Your will.” This suggests that the restoration of mitzvot is not merely returning to the way these practices were performed in the past, but elevating all observance to a higher level.
In the Messianic era, the Jewish people will recognize and feel the existence of G-d in everything. Their connection to Him and the impact of their mitzvot will become tangible and powerful, making each commandment infinitely more meaningful than it is at present, performed exactly as G-d desires them to be fulfilled.
Yet this transformation doesn't require passive waiting. By delving into the philosophical and mystical meaning behind the mitzvot, individuals can work on creating that feeling of Divine presence in their current observance. When someone knows they're about to meet a loved one in person, even a text message becomes more animated and full of feeling, so anticipating the complete revelation of G-d’s presence increases the vibrancy and soulfulness of the relationship even now. Each commandment performed with awareness, intention, and joy prepares humanity for the time when such consciousness will be the natural state of existence.
- Moshiach will restore not only the missing mitzvot but elevate all observance to its intended level of Divine consciousness and transformative power.
When Moshiach comes, it will be face-to-face—every mitzvah alive with Hashem's presence
A Weekly Study Short
Choose one mitzvah you perform regularly and commit to doing it with greater mindfulness this week. Before putting on tefillin, lighting Shabbat candles, or giving charity, pause and reflect on the Divine connection you're creating. Notice how this awareness changes your experience. This mindful mitzvah practice prepares the soul for the time when every commandment will be performed in complete consciousness of G-d's presence.
SOURCES & FURTHER READING:
- Sifrei, Eikev 43
- Ramban, Vayikra 18:25
- Likkutei Sichot Vol. 18 pg. 276
- Likkutei Sichot Vol. 29 pg. 281
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