The Sifrei Devarim, a collection of legal interpretations on the Book of Deuteronomy, presents us with a fascinating paradox. It cites Deuteronomy 11:12, which says, "Always the eyes of the L-rd your G-d are in it (from the beginning of the year to the end of the year)," implying a constant, benevolent watchfulness. But then, it throws us a curveball, quoting Psalms 104:32: "He looks to the earth and it trembles; He touches the mountains and they smoke."
So, is God watching over us with love and care, or with a gaze that can shatter the very earth?
The Sifrei Devarim, in section 40, attempts to reconcile these seemingly contradictory verses. It suggests that it all depends on us. When Israel – and by extension, when we – act in accordance with God’s will, then "Always the eyes of the L-rd your G-d are in it," and we are protected. But when we stray from that path, then "He looks to the earth and it trembles."
It's a powerful image, isn't it? Our actions have cosmic consequences.
But there's more to it than just reward and punishment. The text then offers another layer of interpretation, suggesting that God's gaze is "sometimes for good; sometimes for ill." This brings up the weighty issue of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, a time of judgment. According to tradition, our fate for the coming year is sealed on this day.
What happens if things change after Rosh Hashanah?
Let’s say a community was wicked on Rosh Hashanah, and a meager amount of rain was decreed for the year. If they repent afterwards, can the decree be altered? The answer is nuanced. The decree itself cannot be changed, for it has already been issued. However, how that decree is carried out can be. God, the text suggests, will bring the limited rains down at the most opportune times, when they are most needed. A subtle but significant difference!
Conversely, if a community was righteous on Rosh Hashanah and abundant rain was decreed, but then they backslide, can the rain be reduced? Again, the decree stands. But instead of a blessing, the rains might fall at the wrong times, on deserts and seas, where they are of no benefit. The text quotes Job 24:19, "Dryness, also heat, will steal from the days of snow. They have sinned unto Sheol." It connects this verse to the sin of failing to separate terumoth and tithes (offerings to the priests and Levites) during the harvest. In other words, neglecting our obligations and responsibilities can lead to a disruption of the natural order.
It’s a sobering thought.
This passage from Sifrei Devarim presents a complex view of divine providence. It isn’t simply about reward and punishment, but about a constant interplay between our actions and God's response. It’s about the delicate balance of the world, and how we, through our choices, can either contribute to its harmony or disrupt it.
So, the next time you feel like you're being watched, remember this story. Remember that you have the power to influence the nature of that gaze. Are you creating a world that invites blessing, or one that invites… well, trembling?