As Heard from Rabbi Avigdor Miller ZT”L

“You are children of Hashem your G-d.” (14:1)
[This Pasuk is referring to making a wound into ones skin as a sign of mourning as the idolaters do]

This is one of the most thunderous declarations in Hashem’s Torah. You and you alone, are Hashem’s children. This can be understood in at least three aspects, all true.

1) Because you are under My especial care, as a child under his parent’s care, you need not be overly distraught at the death of some loved one. I Hashem do solely what is good for My children, and the departed soul has been transported to the happiness of the Afterlife where it enjoys the closeness to his Father. Therefore, do not cut yourselves because of excessive grief (Ibn Ezra).

2) Because you are the sons of Hashem, therefore you should seek to emulate Him, just as sons resemble there father. Hashem hates idolatry and sorcery and all the practices of the nations, and His sons therefore must avoid such behavior.

3) Because you are the sons of Hashem, you must be handsome and well-groomed, and not lacerated with bloody wounds or plucked out hair (Sifri). This is indicated as a permanent requirement, but in instances of excessive grief, it must be reinforced by a special commandment. Also, because you are my children, you must be well behaved; for your behavior is a reflection on my honor. My children should not imitate the practices of wild grief and senseless idolatry.

We note that this tremendous declaration (”You are children of Hashem”) is absolute and unconditional. You are right now children of Hashem!

Quoted from “Fortunate Nation” by Rabbi Avigdor Miller ZT”L

Shabbat Shalom

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