In this shiur, we will compare and contrast the tochachot found in Sefer Vayikra and Sefer Devarim, noting that the differences stem from the essential differences between these two books.
In addition to the laws of shemitta and yovel, Parashat Behar discusses interpersonal laws - ona'ah, neshekh, and ribit. In this shiur, we will discuss these laws and their modern implications.
Parashat Behar discusses the laws of Shemitta and Yovel. Immediately thereafter comes the list of blessings and curses, at the beginning of Parashat Bechukotai.
We shall begin by examining an excerpt from the curses. In chapter 26, verses 31-43, the Torah describes the punishment of destruction and exile.
Parashat Bechukotai begins with a section of berakhot and kelalot, blessings and curses. It details some of the benefits Yisrael will receive if they adhere to the terms of the covenant, but also describes the terrible calamities and tragedies that will befall Bnei Yisrael if, chalila, they ignore those terms.
As we discussed last week, the Torah commands us to count the days and weeks of the Omer in order that the entire nation, and each individual, will know when the festival of Shavuot is to be celebrated. The mitzva is therefore one of clarification and calculation towards a date that depends upon our counting.
In this shiur, we will examine the blessings and curses listed in our parasha in an attempt to understand how they relate to one another and why there appear to me so many more punishments than promises of blessing.
