Standing in G-d’s Presence

      The Torah portion for this week is called Nitzavim, meaning “standing,” because it pictures Israel standing in the presence of G‑d. Technically, this is a legal ceremony involving the renewing of Israel’s covenant (agreement) relationship with G‑d, which the nation began shortly after the exodus from Egypt (Exodus 19:3-8). The people of Israel were getting ready to enter Canaan, with all of its gods and goddesses—the L‑rd wanted Israel to nurture their relationship with Him, as they would be exposed to these Canaanite religions.

      As we look closer, it seems as if the nation is participating in a renewal of vows with G‑d, much like married couples do at their 25th wedding anniversary. It comes complete with “witnesses” (heaven and earth, 30:19). 

      The Haftarah portion in Isaiah (61:1-63:9) makes it even more explicit—it portrays G‑d as Israel’s loving bridegroom. Unlike other portions of the Torah, the L‑rd targets Israel’s heart. His message is, “Don’t turn away from Me!” In a nutshell, the L‑rd is warning Israel against spiritual adultery, reminding them that if they leave Him for a false god, the relationship will be broken, and they will get the short end of the stick (29:19-24).

      It is somewhat unsettling to see the L‑rd speaking about His wrath directed toward them if they follow false gods. We don’t like to think about G‑d as a severe judge. Yes, G‑d judges sin, but here His wrath is an expression of His hurt at being rejected by Israel and upstaged by a false god. The L‑rd also reminds Israel of the benefits of their relationship with Him—that as they follow Him and nurture their love relationship with Him, they can count on being blessed by Him. “See, I set before you life and death, blessing and cursing. . . Now, choose life,” (30:15,19). In many ways, this applies to us—as we make daily choices to follow Him wholeheartedly, He will do what He always wants to do, bless those who love Him.