Shabbat Table Topics – Parashat Ki Tavo/0/en
Shabbat Table Topics – Parashat Ki Tavo
On Geography, Polemics, and Parshanut
Many of the sites named in Tanakh cannot be located with certainty, and even the locations of places which are well known have been debated. The location of Mt. Eival and Mt. Gerizim is a case in point. While R. Yehuda (and many others) suggest that they are in the vicinity of Shekhem, R. Eliezer claims that they are near Gilgal, close to the Jordan. What is motivating each side of the debate?
- What in the description of the mountain's location in Devarim 11 would support each position?
- If the mountains really were in the middle of the country, how could the nation be expected to arrange the ceremony "on the day that you cross the Jordan". Would that not involve passing through as of yet unconquered enemy territory?
- What was the purpose of the ceremony held on the mountains? Which location would best help achieve this goal?
- Finally, a polemical factor might also play a role in the discussion. Since the Samaritans sanctify Mt. Gerizim of Shekhem, setting a totally different geographical location for the mountain rids their claims of all validity. To think about: does the fact that an approach is polemically motivated make it less valid or intellectually rigorous than one which is influenced by the text alone?
See When Did the Ceremony on Mt. Eival Occur for elaboration.
Why do the Righteous Suffer?
Much of the parashah is devoted to listing the blessings to befall those who observe the commandments and the curses which will plague non-observers. Based on the promises, the righteous should be living their lives in peace and prosperity while the wicked suffer. Unfortunately, though, life does not seem to always play out that way. Why does it so often appear as if Hashem is not keeping his promises?
