Welcome to the short, practical Lelamed Weekly Dvar (and Daily Aliyah). Please consider forwarding this to others, and I hope you enjoy... Shabbat Shalom. _______________________________________________ Dvar Torah for Nitzavim 6th Aliya In Parshat Nitzavim, Moshe famously explains that the commandments are there for us to observe and that “it is very close to you; it is in your mouth and your heart, so that you can fulfill it” (30:14). Rashi explains that this curious mouth/heart wording refers to the oral and written laws. While it makes sense for “in your mouth” to correspond to the oral laws, how does “in your heart” pertain to the written law? Wouldn’t it more literally be “on your bookshelves”? One possible answer could be that after learning, analyzing, and appreciating G-d’s laws, one would internalize them to the point where they are regarded naturally, from the heart. It could be that the passuk (verse) is outlining an action plan for complete internal harmony. The first step is to study and learn so that we appreciate the Torah’s directions to the point where we internalize them. The second step is to express verbally what our heart feels, followed by the third step of acting on those thoughts and expressions. When our minds, words, and actions all align, we are ready to live life fully. Shlomo Ressler _____________________________________________ Quotation of the week: "Wear your heart on your sleeve and your soul in your smile."