Parashat Vaetchanan/ParashahSummary

Parashat Vaetchanan – Summary

• In Parashat Vaetchanan, Moshe concludes his historical review, focusing on some of the lessons learned from Israel's years in the wilderness. He then begins a lengthy commandments speech, reviewing previously-received laws, introducing new ones, and urging vigilant observance.
• Moshe's Supplication – At the end of Chapter 3, Moshe relates how he implored Hashem to allow him to enter the Land of Israel. Hashem, though, refused his request, allowing him only to see the land from afar.
• Following Hashem's Commands and Refraining from Idolatry – In Chapter 4, Moshe encourages the people to obey the commandments so that they will not be punished like they were at Ba'al Pe'or, and so that they will be close to God and an example for other nations. Moshe reminds the people that Hashem did not appear as any image or form at Sinai, and that, consequently, the Children of Israel should not worship or create any graven images. Moshe also foretells that Israel will worship idolatry in the future and be exiled as a result, but that Hashem will not forsake them, and they will eventually repent and return to Hashem. The chapter concludes with Moshe's designation of three cities of refuge on the eastern side of the Jordan river.
• Decalogue and Israel's Reaction to Revelation – Chapter 5 retells the account of the giving of the Decalogue and the nation's request that Moshe serve as their intermediary to transmit Hashem's words to them.
• Loving Hashem and Observing His Commandments – Chapter 6 contains general exhortations about loving Hashem, observing His commandments, remembering Him in times of plenty, and refraining from idol worship.
• Prohibition against Treaties with the Canaanites – The beginning of Chapter 7 warns Israel against making covenants with the inhabitants of Canaan or intermarrying with them, lest they lead the Children of Israel astray and cause them to forget that they are Hashem's chosen nation.

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