This is the model for Source Sheet #2
First choose 2-4 pasukim from the "pshat" and " that we have studied in class.
Use either the Exodus (Freedom from Slavery)
or Devarim (Greatest Hits of Deuteronomy)
Then, you will need to find
a midrash that you must find, and then create your own personal midrash.
First choose 2-4 pasukim from the "pshat" and " that we have studied in class.
Use either the Exodus (Freedom from Slavery)
or Devarim (Greatest Hits of Deuteronomy)
Then, you will need to find
a midrash that you must find, and then create your own personal midrash.
19) I call the skies and the earth to witness regarding you today: I've put life and death in front of you, blessing and curse; Choose life, so you'll live , you and your seed (20) to love YHVH, your God, to listen to his voice and to cling to Him, because He is your life and the extension of your days to reside on the land that YHVH swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give to them."
This text comes during Mose's ethical will to the Jewish people. It takes place right before Moses dies and the Israelites enter the holy land.
ובחרת בחיים THEREFORE CHOOSE THE LIFE — I show you these (“I set life and death before thee) in order that you may choose the portion of life. It is like a man who says to his son, “Choose for yourself a good portion of my real estate”, and sets him in the best portion saying to him, “Choose this!” And concerning this it states, (Psalms 16:5) “The Lord is the portion of my inheritance and my cup, אתה תומיך גורלי”, i.e. “You place my hand on the good lot, saying, ‘Choose this!'” (RASHI)
I chose this midrash because its comparison resonates with me. Comparing life to the best part of a field is Rashi's way of explaining that being alive is the greatest thing in the universe. Rashi is an instrumental teacher of Jewish philosophy and Torah. He grew up in the 11th century in France. He was well known for answer students questions, which they later compiled into books of his teachings.
Fortunately, I have never been in a situation where I have clearly had to chose between life and death. That literal interpretation of the text hasn't really applied to my life up until now. But I interpret this text in another way. I see choosing life as in choosing to live life to the fullest. This does resonate with me. Especially being a high school student, where grades and gpa scores seem to be the most important thing, it is sometimes difficult to remember to live life fully. We only have one life to live, it definitely shouldn't be spent cooped up in your room studying. I know that that is an important thing, for grades do matter in life, but it shouldn't be the number one priority. This interpretation of the text I think is one that connects to most people's lives. Especially in our modern world, where living life seems to take second to wealth or social stature, it is always important to remind ourselves that God is telling us to choose life.