Bemidbar

In previous years we dealt with the haftara of Parashat Naso and the meaning of Shimshon marrying Plishti women. We explained that this action was a declaration of independence from Plishti domination. We proved from a number of phrases that the entire episode regarding these marriages was connected to leadership and governance. Around the time of Shavuot, let us remember that the story of Ruth also deals with the question of why we were subdued under the rule of the Plishtim for hundreds of years until the days of King David. David was the first leader to declare Jewish independence on a national level.

Prior to Shavuos is an excellent time to review some of the less-known halachos germane to kerias haTorah, including whether the Bimah needs to be in the middle of the shul.

Over the last few weeks, we proved that Torah and Chazal saw a deep connection between Brit Bein Hab’tarim and Kriat Yam Suf. Avraham was concerned that, even if his children were to inherit Eretz Yisrael, they would still be subservient to Egypt. We explained that Hashem promised that when Bnei Yisrael would leave Egypt and cross the sea, their subservience would end and their independence in Eretz Yisrael would begin.

Our parasha begins with the laws that arise from oaths, especially in the context of family relationships. That makes it a good time to discuss the power of one’s speech. Based on the power the Torah gives to a person’s oaths, things that he says can change matters on the ground in many ways.