Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Gd wants us to make others happy

Hi,

Preface: Every three years, the cycle of tithes for Israeli produce is completed. At that point the Jew is instructed to come to the beit hamikdash [Temple in Jerusalem] and declare that he has properly distributed all of the tithes. As part of this, he makes the following declaration: “I have done everything that You have commanded me. [Devarim 26:14]”

On this, the midrash makes a remarkable statement:


“’I have done everything that You have commanded me.’ This means: I have been happy, and I have made others happy.”

(Sifri to Parshat Ki Tavo 7)

Have a great day,
Mordechai

2 comments:

  1. This is a beautiful midrash. What is the name of the three year cycle of tithes?

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