Vayeilech – Walking

This week's Parsha, Parshas Vayeilech, recounts the final words of Moshe Rabbeinu on the last day of his life. It opens with the phrase, "Moshe went and spoke these words to all Israel. He said to them, “I am one hundred twenty years old this day; I can no longer go out and come in...” The Even Ezra explains the phrase "Moshe went" as indicating that Moshe visited each tribe individually to inform them of his impending death and to reassure them not to be afraid.

Moshe, the leader of the Jewish people and renowned as the greatest prophet who was the only one to communicate directly with Hashem face-to-face, dedicates his final day to visiting each tribe. He reassures his beloved nation that they will be in the capable hands of his student and successor, Yehoshua. This is a remarkable testament to his love for his people, yet it raises the question: why does the Torah introduce this Parsha by emphasizing that Moshe went?

You Are Standing, Now You Must Go

In Parshas Nitzavim, we explored the notion of 'standing'. We clarified that Moshe was illustrating the greatness of the Jewish people; despite their occasional failures to meet their potential or fulfill their mission in this world, they are perpetually standing, prepared to rise again and continue their growth, striving once more to strengthen their bond with Hashem. This article will address the next phase. It is indeed a remarkable trait to remain standing, yet that alone is insufficient. A bystander does not enjoy the glory of success; only participants do. As the saying goes, 'You must be in it to win it.'

It could be suggested that the Torah is delivering a message through the juxtaposition of these two Parshiyos side by side. (While this year they are read on consecutive Shabbasos, typically, they are read on the same Shabbos.) People are imperfect. They have their flaws and make mistakes. The initial step is to rise again and be prepared to continue striving. The next step is to act. Act decisively, do not remain idle. On Moshe’s final day, he continues teaching through his actions. He is on the go. If there is life, there is work that needs to be accomplished.

Taking the Next Step

This Shabbos is commonly known as Shabbos Shuva. The name is taken from the opening line of the Haftarah, which begins with the words, ‘Shuva Yisrael ahd Hashem Elokecha’, which means ‘Return Israel to Hashem your G-d.’ Additionally, this Shabbos is named as such because it falls between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, marking the Shabbos of the 10 Days of Teshuva.

Rosh Hashanah marked the time when Hashem judged the world. This period serves as an opportunity to evaluate our actions and the dynamics of our relationships with Hashem, with others, and with ourselves. As we progress through the days of repentance that lead to the great and awe-inspiring day of Yom Kippur, we must now proceed to the next phase. It is essential to act. We must initiate an action plan for the upcoming year. What enhancements can we implement to improve upon our current achievements? Which wrongdoings can I endeavor to minimize this year?

Remember to take part and engage in your own success. You have assessed and analyzed. Now, GO!