Since we might think that the mitzvot are too lofty for us, the Torah tells us that they are "very near" to us, and that they in fact unite the spiritual and the physical so that we may be a holy nation.
Teshuva raises many questions: Isn't it unjust if God doesn't punish someone for his misdeeds? How is it possible to turn a new page? How can we start this project and maintain it afterwards?
The gemara cites the view of R. Akiva, who maintains that three covenants were made between God and the people of Israel. Why was there a need for three covenants? What was the unique role of the third covenant in the Plains of Moav?
Now therefore write this poem for you, and teach it to the people of Israel; put it in their mouths, that this poem may be a witness for Me against the people of Israel. (Devarim 31:19)
