Re’eh: Blessing and Curse

Parashat Re’eh speaks with striking clarity, presenting the people with two distinct paths: a blessing for choosing obedience to God’s commandments, and a curse for turning away.

As Israel stands on the brink of entering the Promised Land, a region then filled with idol worship. The Jordan River which they’re about to cross serves like a vital spiritual boundary. Crossing it requires unwavering devotion to avoid being enticed by, “other gods, which neither you nor your fathers have known.” (Deuteronomy 13:6)

Describing these gods as “unknown”, is a quiet reminder of the One who has been known, the God who remained faithful across generations, through 430 years in Egypt and 40 years in the desert. Nothing was ever too great for Him as He walked alongside and provided for His people. In light of such love, we’re called to hold fast to Him in return.

Visualizing the Choice

As one unified community, “and all Israel, sojourner as well as native born”, the people stood on either side of the ark, ““half of them in front of Mount Gerizim and half of them in front of Mount Ebal.” (Joshua 8:33) Interestingly, both mountain peaks lay across the Jordan, framing the entrance to the Promised Land.

Tradition places this gathering near ancient Shechem. It is said that Mount Gerizim was lush and green, while Mount Ebal was rocky and desolate, a striking visual representation of the choices before us. Walking with God leads to a fruitful and deeply rooted life, much like a tree, “planted by streams of water” (Psalm 1:3). On the other hand, pursuing self-reliance may offer a temporary sense of freedom, but it eventually leads to a life that lacks spiritual nourishment that’s rooted in our Creator with Whom, “is the fountain of life” (Psalm 36:9).

Standing at the border of the Promised Land, still with Moses by their sides, the people could clearly see both mountains and the choices they represent.

The Narrow Path

Centuries later, Yeshua echoes this same truth in Matthew 7:13-14. He contrasts the wide gate and the broad road, an easy lawless path that many take, with the “narrow gate”, which represents a dedicated and intentional walk of faith that leads to eternal life.

Just like the blessing in Parashat Re’eh, the “narrow gate” is demanding, yet it’s the only way that leads to life. As Yeshua promises, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). This life isn’t only reserved for the world to come; we’re invited to experience His presence and walk with Him through our ups and downs of life.

Reflection

Which areas in life can you step toward walking in trust and abundance in Him?