On Tisha B’Av morning, we read a portion of Va’eschanan discussing the destruction of the Land of Israel and the casting out of the Jews from it.
The impetus for this is the Jews sinning and turning away from Hashem. However, in the midst of this warning, Moshe pointed out to the Jews that if they searched for Hashem in earnest, they would find Him.
One of the proofs Moshe offers that Hashem will accept our repentance is the rhetorical question, “Has any other nation heard the voice of G-d and lived to tell the tale?”
Hashem performed two miracles for us that day. 1. We were able to hear Him. 2. We lived to speak of it.
What Moshe was reminding us is that we are a special and unique people, and that with each of us is the ability to connect to Hashem in a very special and powerful way.
Tisha B’Av is called a Moed, a meeting place, because it is where we intersect with our Creator, even as he draws us close to deliver punishment. We are not cast away from Him in anger, but drawn close in love, even when it is painful.
Being able to remain connected to Hashem, hearing his voice and living, is the source of our ability to always return to Him.
Thought of the week:
We’re not physical beings on a spiritual journey. We are spiritual beings on a physical one.
