The psalmist says of Hashem, "You open Your hand, and satisfy the desire of every living thing." We can readily understand this verse as speaking of Hashem’s extension of Himself in serving the needs of all His creations. Why, however, the use of the expression- "open hand"? Rabbi Weiman explains that a closed hand gives the impression of uniformity; all fingers appear to be the same length and size. With an open hand, however, individual differences are highlighted. The verse therefore teaches that Hashem differentially attends to all of His creations, acknowledging and meeting each one’s particular needs and desires.

 

Copyright, 2008 Rachel Lerner