True Life

In our previous articles, we have explored the profound impact of Torah and mitzvot on our lives. These practices not only enhance our well-being but also elevate us spiritually, guiding us towards a higher level of consciousness.

The Vitality of Torah

Rebbe Akiva emphasized the importance of Torah learning, likening it to a fish’s dependence on water. Just as a fish cannot survive without water, we cannot thrive spiritually without the nourishment of Torah (Brachot 61b). Torah is not merely an accessory to life; it is a prerequisite for our spiritual vitality.

Rebbe Akiva’s analogy of a fish needing constant water support underscores the continuous nature of our connection to Torah. Similar to a fish’s reliance on water for survival, we must constantly engage with Torah to sustain our spiritual well-being. Torah is not just a source of nourishment; it is the essence of our existence, akin to oxygen that keeps us alive.

The Netziv (Vayikra 18:5; Devarim 4:1) extends Rebbe Akiva’s teaching to mitzvot, explaining that the Torah links life to the observance of commandments because true human life encompasses spirituality. While the Torah uses the term “chayim” to refer to both physical and spiritual life, the latter is sustained through mitzvah observance.

Onkelos (Devarim 8:3) underscores the distinction between spiritual and physical life by translating “chayim” differently based on the context. When referring to life sustained by spiritual nourishment, Onkelos uses “chayei,” highlighting the significance of spiritual vitality over mere physical sustenance.

The Netziv (Bereishit 2:7) interprets the creation of man in Sefer Bereishit as the foundation of human spiritual life. Unlike animals, which are described as alive upon creation, man is deemed alive only after receiving a soul from Hashem. Human life, according to the Torah, involves more than mere physical existence; it includes the soul and its need for spiritual nourishment.

The Essence of Life

Sefer Devarim presents Torah and mitzvot not only as sustenance for life but as life itself. Choosing to observe mitzvot is synonymous with choosing life because mitzvah fulfillment embodies the essence of life.

But what does it mean for Torah and mitzvot to be life itself?

Torah study and mitzvah observance are not just means of survival; they are the purpose and essence of our existence. While we require food and water for physical sustenance, Torah and mitzvot give our lives meaning and direction. A life devoid of Torah study is devoid of true authenticity.

The Rambam (SHN”F 7:1) illustrates this concept through the law of exiling a teacher alongside his student to a city of refuge. The Gemara (Makkot 10a) derives this halacha from the Torah’s use of the word “va’chai” (and he shall live) in the context of an unintentional murderer (Devarim 19:4).

At first glance, “va’chai” seems to refer to physical protection and sustenance, as evidenced by the requirement to provide the murderer with livelihood. However, the Gemara’s extension of this word to include the exile of the teacher with the student is puzzling.

The Rambam clarifies that those who value wisdom, found through Torah learning, are deemed spiritually dead without access to it. The word “va’chai” mandates the exile of the teacher because the student would be considered spiritually dead without his teacher’s guidance.

We are urged to contemplate the Rambam’s teachings. While we prioritize activities that sustain our physical existence, we often overlook the fundamental question of our purpose. Torah and mitzvot provide the answer; they are the reason for our creation and the focus of our lives.

The Measure of Our Lives

Amidst a world preoccupied with survival and material pursuits, we must remind ourselves that Torah study and mitzvah observance are the true essence of life. Ultimately, our investment in these practices defines the value and purpose of our lives.

Rav Ovadya Yosef, zt”l, shared a poignant anecdote about a town where residents recorded their daily Torah study and mitzvah observance. Upon each person’s passing, the total hours spent in Torah study and mitzvah observance were tallied, reflecting their “Torah age” rather than their chronological age.

Conclusion

Our exploration of the significance of mitzvah observance reveals its multifaceted impact on our lives. These insights complement each other, demonstrating the holistic benefits of engaging in mitzvot.

The Ramban (Vayikra 18:4) emphasizes that the rewards of mitzvot are contingent on our intentions. Those who seek personal gain receive accordingly, while those who pursue spiritual growth and enrichment through mitzvah observance attain deeper fulfillment.

May our understanding of the transformative power of mitzvah observance inspire us to approach each commandment with intentionality and sincerity.

 

This article is dedicated to the healing of my nephew – Noam Avraham ben Atara Shlomit. May Hashem grant him and all other soldiers a complete and swift recovery.