{"id":22505,"date":"2025-08-03T21:25:21","date_gmt":"2025-08-04T04:25:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hoshanarabbah.org\/blog\/?p=22505"},"modified":"2025-08-03T21:25:23","modified_gmt":"2025-08-04T04:25:23","slug":"nathans-commentary-on-parashat-vaetchanan-deuteronomy-323-711","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hoshanarabbah.org\/blog\/2025\/08\/03\/nathans-commentary-on-parashat-vaetchanan-deuteronomy-323-711\/","title":{"rendered":"Nathan’s Commentary on Parashat Va\u2019etchanan (Deuteronomy 3:23\u20137:11)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Deuteronomy 3<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Moses views the Promised Land<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Deuteronomy 3:23, Pleaded with YHVH. <\/em><\/strong>YHVH forbids Moses from fulfilling his life-long dream of entering the Promised Land. What was Moses\u2019 repsonse? Did he cry, pout and pitch a fit, or did he accept YHVH\u2019s will for his life? We all know the answer as to what the reaction of this holy man of God was. What can we learn from this? Do you have so much love for and faith in YHVH that you would be willing to let go of your greatest dream, even to the point of laying your life on the altar of faith and obediently trusting in YHVH no matter the outcome? Though YHVH were to slay you, will you like Job still love and trust him (Job 13:15)? If your entire life was devastated, you lost all your money, the land was desolate and your life had become a desert, would you, like Habakkuk, still praise YHVH (Hab 3:17\u201319)? Selah (pause and reflect).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Deuteronomy 4<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Deuteronomy 4:2<\/strong>, You shall not add to the word that I command you, nor shall you subtract\/diminish from it. <\/em><\/strong>YHVH warns his people against adding or subtracting from his written word elsewhere as well (see Deut 12:32; Rev 22:18\u201319). Men seem inclined to ignore YHVH\u2019s command in this regard. In fact, whole religions have been founded based on disregarding this prohibition. Some claim to be Bible-based (e.g., Mormonism with their Book of Mormon<\/em> and rabbinic Judaism with its Talmud<\/em>), and some have supplanted the entire Bible with their own book (e.g., Islam with its Quran<\/em>). Other people want to add the books of Enoch and Jasher to the Bible. This doesn\u2019t even include the numerous unbiblical traditions and man-made doctrines that many traditional churches and denominations have constructed out of whole cloth and patched into the teachings of the Bible. This cannot be pleasing to Elohim!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Do not add or subtract from the Bible, the Word of Elohim!<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Who is the author of and real power behind adding to and subtracting from or twisting YHVH\u2019s Word? It is Satan the serpent (see Gen 3:1ff and Matt 4:3ff). Make no mistake, adding or subtracting from the Word of Elohim is to fall for the lie that the devil told the first humans at the tree of knowledge that the Word of Elohim can be molded and formed to fit men\u2019s ways of thinking instead of Elohim\u2019s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What did Yeshua warn the religionists of his day against in this regard? He said, \u201cThus have you made the commandment of Elohim of none effect by your tradition\u201d (Matt 15:6) and, \u201cHowbeit in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men\u201d (Mark 7:7). What are some examples of traditions and theologies in the modern-day Christian and Jewish religions where YHVH\u2019s word has been superseded by man\u2019s traditions? What are some traditions and doctrines of men you have turned away from in order to bring yourself into greater alignment with YHVH\u2019s Word, Bible? How is your life better for it? What has been the reaction of those around you in response to your aligning your life more closely with the truth of YHVH?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, the Bible ends with a warning to those who would add to the word of Elohim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, Elohim will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, Elohim shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. (Rev 22:18\u201319)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

When this passage says \u201cthis book,\u201d which book is it talking about? The Book of Revelation or the entire Bible? To err on the side of caution, it is prudent to assume that John is referring not only to the Book of Revelation,  but to the whole Bible as well, since Revelation is the last book of the Bible. Why do I take the position that John is referring to the whole Bible here? Simply because who in their right mind would want to experience any of Elohim\u2019s curses? Isn\u2019t life is already difficult enough as it is?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Deuteronomy 4:2<\/strong>, Observe the commandments of YHVH.<\/em><\/strong> The word observe <\/em>(RNA\/shin-mem-resh<\/em>)is a common Hebrew verb meaning \u201cto keep, guard, give heed, watch, protect, have charge of.\u201dIn its noun-form, shamar <\/em>means \u201ca watchman.\u201d According to The TWOT<\/em>, the basic meaning of shamar <\/em>is \u201cto exercise great care over something.\u201d One of the most frequent uses of this verb in Scripture is how it is used in this verse. YHVH commands his people to shamar <\/em>his Torah-commandments some 30 times in the Torah alone. What does this mean to you? Are you learning to not only \u201chear,\u201d but \u201cto do\u201d his commands (which is the Hebrew word shema<\/em>)? How has your life changed and what are the resulting blessings? Though YHVH clearly commands his people \u201cto keep\u201d or \u201cto guard\u201d his Torah-law or commandments, what is commonly and sadly taught in most Christian churches in regard to \u201cthe law\u201d of YHVH?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Deuteronomy 4:6,<\/strong> Keep. <\/em><\/strong>Keeping Torah (i.e., YHVH\u2019s instructions in righteousness) was the means for YHVH\u2019s chosen people to be salt and light to the surrounding nations. Torah is literally a \u201cwitnessing tool.\u201d What kind of righteous witness are you (via your Torah lifestyle) to those around you who are lost in spiritual darkness?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wisdom [Heb. chokmah] and understanding [Heb. biynah]. <\/em><\/strong>What is the biblical definition of wisdom and understanding? Let\u2019s explore this subject to see what we can learn from the word of Elohim in this regard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Chokmah <\/em>means \u201cintelligence, skill (in war); wisdom (in administration); shrewdness, wisdom; prudence (in religious affairs); wisdom (ethical and religious).\u201d It derives from the verb chakam<\/em> meaning \u201cto be wise, to be or become wise, act wisely; to make wise, teach wisdom, instruct; to show oneself wise, deceive or to show one\u2019s wisdom.\u201d According to The TWOT, chokmah <\/em>and its root verb represents a manner of thinking and attitude concerning life\u2019s experiences including matters of general interest and basic morality. These concerns relate to prudence in secular affairs, skills in the arts, moral sensitivity, and experience in the ways of YHVH. In the Tanakh, chokmah<\/em> is used in relationship to the whole gamut of human experiences whether it be technical artisan skills, military tactics or political and administrative leadership. It is expressed in shrewdness as opposed to foolishness or silliness. Prudence is another aspect of chokmah<\/em> as it relates to how one speaks, uses his time carefully and in the practical affairs of life. The Bible reveals that Elohim is the source of all wisdom, and wisdom is not to be found in human speculation. Elohim alone provides wisdom for man\u2019s guidance, so that he can live the best possible moral and ethical life (ibid.).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Biynah <\/em>means \u201cdiscernment or insight\u201d or \u201cthe ability to understand something, comprehension, the power of abstract thought, an individual\u2019s perception or judgment of a situation.\u201d According to The<\/em> TWOT<\/em>, biynah<\/em> refers to knowledge that is superior to the mere gathering of data. It is necessary to know how to use the knowledge one possesses, and this is where biynah<\/em> or perception and judgment comes into play. One must properly interpret the data and make wise and discerning decisions as to how to act. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Torah is your wisdom in the sight of the nations.<\/em><\/strong> Consider the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Your life may be the only \u201cBible\u201d that some people read.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Torah is light. Light quietly does<\/em>, it is silent. It doesn\u2019t talk about<\/em> doing, it just does<\/em>! YHVH is looking for doers<\/em>, not talkers<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What kind of reputation do you have in your local community?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

People may not be turning to the light of Torah as a result of your example, YET when times get tough in this country (\u201cwhen you are in tribulation \u2026 in the latter days, Deut 4:30), they may well turn to you for the answers because they remembered that there was something different about you\u2014something pure, pristine and holy. That may well be when they will be looking for answers to some of the deeper questions of life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Torah makes us a great people. YHVH measures greatness differently than the world does. Are you great by the world\u2019s standards or by YHVH\u2019s standards?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How does YHVH measure greatness? Love, faith, truth, obedience, servanthood, giving, selflessness, self-sacrifice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Comparatively speaking, how does the world measure greatness? Money, power, fame, possessions, intellect, physical appearance, good sounding words.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Which type of greatness will last into eternity?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Never forget this: The Bible reveals that Yeshua the Messiah is the spiritual light of the world (John 8:12) that came from heaven to guide men through the spiritual darkness of this world, and to lead them to his Father in heaven (John 1:7\u20139). He is not only the Light, but the Word of Elohim made flesh (John 1:1, 14). In other words, he is the Living Torah Word of Elohim. He was the exemplification and personification of the Written Torah. Only through him living in us via is Set-Apart Spirit can we properly obey YHVH\u2019s Torah commandments (see 1 Cor 9:21 where  we learn that the saint is \u201cunder\/in\/subject to the Torah-law toward Messiah\u201d). This we are able do by his divine power working in us through a personal and loving relationship with him (Jer 31:31\u201333 cp. Heb 8:10; John 14:15; 1 John 2:2\u20136; 3:24; 5:2\u20133; Rom 13:8\u201310). The Testimony of Yeshua (or NT) makes these truths very clear for those who have eyes to see, ears to hear and hearts to comprehend! The rewards and blessings are incomprehensibly awesome for those who walk according to the instructions of Elohim.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cAnd behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.\u201d Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. (Rev 22:12\u201314)<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

Deuteronomy 4:10; 5:29; 6:2, 13, 24,<\/strong> Learn to fear me.<\/em><\/strong>The concept of fearing YHVH has become almost a taboo subject in many churches. Why is this? Probably because it\u2019s a hard message for people to swallow and therefore not a popular one. The fear of YHVH is an important subject because it is the beginning of both knowledge and wisdom (Prov 1:7, 9:10). It seems that most believer\u2019s attitudinal relationship with YHVH has become so casual and commonplace that there is no place left for a healthy fear (i.e., dread of sin and the resulting consequences before a just and set-apart or kadosh<\/em> Elohim) in a one\u2019s life. The church has emphasized the love and grace of the saint\u2019s relationship with their Creator, while overlooking the fear aspect of it. Is this not a disastrous and foolish path? Is the church not suffering for this lack of regard for YHVH and his instructions? For sure, the Christian church is no longer a respected moral force in the society in which it finds itself. Rather, it has become the object of mockery and derision by the unchurched pagans!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Deuteronomy 4 :9, <\/strong>Keep you soul diligently lest you forget. <\/em><\/strong>What are some things that wise believers will not forget?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t forget the awesome things that YHVH has done for you: the miracles, the answered prayers, the healing, the joy and hope that he gave you when there was no way out, delivering you from your enemies, setting you free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remembering the past miracles\u2014keeping your testimony strong and alive of the great things YHVH has done for you\u2014keeps your faith alive in the reality of WHO HE IS and in his very existence<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remembering will keep you from falling away when the times get tough, when the doubts come, when the voice of the lying enemy comes knocking on the door of your heart and mind to lead you astray.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Deuteronomy 4 :15,<\/strong> Take careful heed. <\/em><\/strong>Let\u2019s explore the warning in this passage about the perils of idolatry and its consequences (Deut 4:15) and not seeking after the gods of the people around us (Deut 6:14).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What about idolatry in your life?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What takes precedence over your love and devotion for YHVH?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do you spend daily time in worship and prayer? If not, what idols or other activities have sneaked their way into your life to interfere with your relationship with YHVH?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

YHVH takes seriously our relationship with him and vice versa. YHVH is a consuming fire and is jealous over you (Deut 4:24).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Deuteronomy 4:25\u201332, Apostasy, exile, enslavement, repentance and regathering of lost and scattered Israel to the Promised Land in the last days. <\/strong>This passage deals with the exile and return of the Israelites. Because of syncretism with the idolatrous practices of the nations around them, YHVH prophesied that the Israelites would be scattered among the nations of the world. Conversely, YHVH prophesies that \u201cin the end of days\u201d (verse 30)\u2014a metaphor for \u201cthe last days\u201d or \u201cthe end of the age\u201d\u2014he would hear their pleas for help, have mercy on his people, and remember his covenant with them. According to some noted Jewish sages, \u201cthe end of days\u201d refers to the period just before the coming of Messiah, and this repentance is the same as that which Moses mentions later in 30:1\u20132 (The ArtScroll Stone Edition Chumash<\/em>, p. 965). Here are some additional quotes from some these Jewish sages on the subject of Israel returning to YHVH from its exile among the nations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The future King Messiah (Messiah Son of David) will not only redeem the Jews from exile, but will restore the observance of the Torah-commandments to its complete state, which will only be possible when the Israelites are living in the Land of Israel. At this same time, \u201cthere will be an ingathering of the dispersed remnant of Israel.<\/strong> This will make it possible for the Davidic dynasty to be reinstated and for the observance of the Torah and its mitzvot <\/em>[commandments] to be restored in its totality\u201d (I Await His Coming Every Day<\/em>, p. 35, [see also p. 38 quoting Rambam] by Menachem Schneerson, emphasis added). According to the Rambam (also known as Maimonides) in his Thirteen Principles of the Jewish Faith<\/em> the resurrection of the dead will occur just after the coming of the Messiah and that the resurrection of the dead is a key element of the Final Redemption (ibid.<\/em>, p. 59, emphasis added).<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

The Jewish sages recognize that the ingathering of the exiles including the ten tribes of the Northern Kingdom, will also return, be reunited with Judah and that the whole house of Israel will serve YHVH together<\/strong> (Ezek 20:32\u201337, 40\u201342) (Mashiach\u2014the Principles of Mashiach and the Messianic Era In Jewish Law and Tradition<\/em>, pp. 20-22, by Jacob Immanual Schochet quoting from Sanhedrin <\/em>110b; Bamidbar Rabba <\/em>16:25, emphasis added).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The ArtScroll<\/em><\/strong>Bereishis\/Genesis Commentary<\/em><\/strong>, <\/strong>vol. 1(b) states in its commentary on Genesis 48:19 regarding Ephraim: \u201cR. Munk explains: \u2018while it is true that the dispersion [of the descendants of Ephraim and Manasseh] was caused by the unfaithfulness and sinfulness of Ephraim\u2019s descendants (Hos 7:8ff), Jacob\u2019s blessing was not in vain for \u201cthey will return to God\u201d and will have their share in the world to come (Talmud Sanhedrin<\/em> 110b).\u2019 And R. Eliezer adds: \u2018Even the darkness in which the Ten Tribes were lost will one day become as radiant as the day\u2019 (according to the version of Avos d\u2019Rabbi Nosson 36<\/em>). And in the perspective of history, did not these exiled children of the Patriarchs enlighten the nations among whom they were scattered? They did so by teaching their conquerors the fundamental ideas of the knowledge and love of God, ideals they had never forsaken. Hence they too have a messianic vocation and their Messiah the Maschiach ben Yosef, Messiah son of Joseph (Talmud Succah<\/em> 52a), also called Messiah son of Ephraim (Targum Yonasan<\/em> on Exodus 40:11), will play an essential role in humanity\u2019s redemption, for he will be the precursor of the Maschiach ben David, Messiah Son of David. It is therefore not surprising to find that the prophet Jeremiah (3:12) speaks affectionately of Ephraim. In this light, Jacob\u2019s words, \u2018his offspring will fill the nations<\/em>,\u2019 assume the significance of blessing\u201d (pp. 2121\u20132122).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The regathering of not only the Jewish people (largely from the tribe of Judah), but Israelites from the other eleven tribes is predicted by Yeshua and the apostolic writers as well (see Acts 3:21; Matt 10:6; 15:24). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now note how the following phrases or concepts from the Scriptures, who they relate to, and how this relates to the statements of the Jewish sages and to our text under consideration as pertaining to Israel (including both the houses of Israel (i.e., Ephraim\/Samaria or the Northern Kingdom and Judah or the Southern Kingdom) being scattered among the nations for their disobedience to YHVH, and then their being regathered and restored as a united kingdom and obedient people under the rule of King Messiah:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Far and Near: <\/strong>Solomon prophesied the Israelite\/Ephraimite exile, that Judah would be exiled to a near country (Babylon) and Ephraim would be exiled to a far country (Assyria) (1\u2009Kings 8:46; see also Dan 9:7). Paul makes reference to the purpose of his ministry being to preach peace to those who were afar off and them that are near that through Yeshua both may have access through the Spirit unto the Father (Eph 2:16\u201317).<\/p>\n\n\n\n