As Heard from Rabbi Avigdor Miller ZT”L

“And G-d spoke.” (20:1)

Before we begin the study of Hashem’s words, it is essential to understand the principle set forth by RaMBAN.

“The 613 commandments are actually 613 general principles.” This very important statement declares that not only are the precepts applicable to the cases in which the Torah commands them, but they must serve as indications of Hashem’s will even in other instances. Thus the command to return a lost ox or sheep to its owner (Debarim 22:1-3) is used as a model for the principle of rescuing the property of a fellowman from destruction. The command to erect a fence around the (flat) roof (ibid. 22:8) intends also to exhort all necessary means of safety, such as removing a rickety ladder (Babba Kama 15B).

The Giving of the Torah did not begin at Sinai and it did not end at Sinai. The laws of Torah actually began in Egypt. At Sinai, the Acceptance of the Torah took place. The Giving of the Torah continued down to the end of Moshe’s life. “This day you have become a people to Hashem your G-d.” (Debarim 27:9)

But in accordance with the Mitzvah that “You should walk in His ways” (Debarim 28:9) which is the principle that the 613 Mitzvot are 613 general rules from which many other lessons can be derived. We see that the Torah-acceptance did not end at the passing of Moshe. Since then, the pious nation has continued to expand these commands and to use them as models for many more ways of fulfilling the will of Hashem. Without forgetting the will of Hashem.

Without forgetting the original Law that the to thank Hashem for food is limited only to the blessings after eating bread to satiety (Debarim 8:9-10), Birkat Hamazon the holy people began to follow the “way of Hashem” that implies the principle of Gratitude for Hashem’s gifts. And they instituted the practice of thanking Hashem also before eating bread, and also before eating or drinking anything and also for pleasant fragrances or happy experiences of many kinds.

Among the reasons that the Tablets of the Ten Commandments are called ‘Edut’ (Testimony) is their Testimony to all the laws contained in each Commandment.

Quoted from “A Nation is Born” by Rabbi Avigdor Miller ZT”L

Shabbat Shalom

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