This week’s parshah is
named Nitzavim. It literally means "you (pl) are standing" but not any kind of
standing – for that the Torah would likely have used a different verb. Rather nitzavim means to stand
upright, with a purpose, with an attitude – an attitude of preparation, or
readiness to receive what is coming.
The Torah portion also
describes just how inclusive the Jewish community is meant to be. All those who are
present receiving Moshe’s instructions are identified – from the leaders and tribal
chiefs and elders, to the youngest person in the camp!
From the children and those who are now part of the community even
though they were not born into it - the Torah even includes those who have not yet been born. Rich and poor; old and young -- getting up to meet the challenge. From
those who enforced the laws to even the humble wood-choppers and
water-carriers. In other words, those who are considered among the poorest in the community are included.
It is a broad net that is
cast! A net that is as diverse at is
inclusive. And one other vital
message – about all the lessons that Moshe is teaching from Torah – we are
taught that whether we embrace this community and its norms and how we embrace
this community and its norms is left for us to choose. God is setting before us every day the choice of life and good. (Devarim 30:15.)
