Recently I came across an article describing what constitutes great literature. The author suggested that great literature “changes you. When you are done reading, you’re a different person.”
In that light, we shall always classify the Torah as great literature. Reading the Torah challenges us to be better. Stories of biblical heroes inspire us to be courageous and persevering. The legal portions shape our character by orienting our minds and lives to holy living. As we mediate upon the words of the Torah its mitzvot, they become powerful agents for change in our lives. No wonder when commenting upon the phrase “If you follow My laws” (Lev. 26:3) in this week’s Torah portion Bechukotai, Rashi explains this phrase to mean that you should labor in the Torah by diligently studying it.
The author of Psalm 119 loved the Torah for its transforming influence in his life. He recognized that the Torah handed down from Moses made him wise and more understanding than his teachers (v. 99). It kept him from evil (v. 101). No wonder he exclaimed, “Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long,” and “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (vv. 97, 103).
Welcome to the joy of loving great literature, especially the life-changing power of the Torah!
My devar Torah is a timely reminder because in just 10 days we shall celebrate the holiday of Shavuot, the giving of the Torah from upon Mt. Sinai Saturday night beginning with Minkha at 7:45 P.M. A dairy dinner, Ma’ariv, and our annual L’al Tikkun Shavuot will follow.
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