deuteronomy 29:9-31:30

Luke 1

⁵ In the days of Herod, King of Y’hudah, there was a cohen named Z’kharyah who belonged to the Aviyah division. His wife was a descendant of Aharon, and her name was Elisheva. ⁶ Both of them were righteous before God, observing all the mitzvot and ordinances of Adonai blamelessly. ⁷ But they had no children, because Elisheva was barren; and they were both well along in years.

            This week’s Torah portion gives us what may be the most important commandment in all Torah. Yes, we are to love Hashem, and we are to love our neighbor, but, fulfilling these commitments is contingent upon the idea that the commandments of Hashem can be fulfilled. In other words, we can do this, it is within our capability. Many have been taught that fulfilling Hashem’s mitzvot is an impossible task. Torah is very explicit that this is not the case. We can do it, and we should do it.

            The portion also gives us a bit of guidance with regard to interpretation of Torah. That is, that Hashem does not give us commandments that we cannot do. There are no impossible commandments. This is important in understanding how to do mitzvot that Hashem has commanded us. For instance, it means that women are not bound to filling mitzvot that are both time related and positive. We would have mitzvot that contradict each other. If this is the case, they would be impossible. This week’s portion assures us that Hashem does not give us impossible commandments. Therefore, if a commandment is both positive and time related, women are not required to follow it. Likewise, men are not required to fulfill the commandments of Niddah. It is impossible for men to do this, so through this week’s Torah portion, we understand that Hashem does not give us commandments that are impossible.

            In Luke 1, the parents of John the Baptist are described as being righteous and observing all Hashem’s mitzvot. It is important to note this, it is possible to fulfill all of Hashem’s commandments. Zakhariyah and Elisheva obeyed all of Hashem’s commandments, so can we. Shabbat shalom.