This week’s parsha describes the procedure in preparation for going to war with our enemies. Among other announcements the Kohen declares: "Hear O Israel (Shema Yisrael) you are approaching your enemies in war, don’t be weak hearted, scared, or frightened from them." (Devarim 20:3)

These words "Hear O Israel" are superfluous because the Kohen had already begun speaking to the people. From this our Rabbis understood a hidden message. It would be enough if the Jewish People had only the Mitzvah of Shema to merit  victory against the enemy.

What is special about Shema?

The Gur Aryeh explains. We say: "Shema Yisrael, the Lord is our G-d, the Lord is One." The essence of Shema is to recognize that there is only one power in the entire universe, Hashem. Nothing happens without His decree. To the uninformed our enemies seem to be an independent force which raises fear and consternation. However, when we recognize the truth, that Hashem is the only force by declaring Shema, Hashem removes the threat of the enemy.

That doesn’t mean we don’t go to war. We have to go through the motions. But victory is assured.

Good Shabbos

Thank-you Rabbi Berl Glazer,

 

And a very gut Sha Bass to you,

Rb Yossi Ponak