By: Lower School Judaic Studies Teacher, Chaya TurJman-Meyer
This week’s parshiot, Behar-Bechukotai, bring together powerful lessons about responsibility, kindness, and our deep connection to the land and to Hashem.
In Behar, we learn about the Shmittah year, when the land in Israel rests every seven years. Farmers stop working the fields, and all produce becomes free for everyone to share. This teaches us that the land ultimately belongs to Hashem, and we are merely caretakers, entrusted with its well-being. Every fiftieth year is the Yovel, or Jubilee year, when slaves are freed and land that was sold returns to its original owner. These mitzvot emphasize fairness, compassion, and the idea that no person should be stuck in a cycle of poverty or servitude forever.
These laws remind us that everything we have, our land, our freedom, our resources, really belongs to Hashem. We are called to use them with justice and care, treating both people and the environment with respect.
Bechukotai lays out a clear message about the covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people. If the people follow Hashem’s commandments, they are promised brachot like peace, good harvests, and security. But if they turn away, they will face challenges, including hardship and galut (exile). These warnings can be difficult to read, but they come with a message of hope: no matter what happens, Hashem promises never to forget us. His covenant with the Jewish people is eternal.
Together, these parshiot remind us that living a life of faith, responsibility, and compassion brings lasting blessings. Even in difficult times, Hashem's love and connection with His chosen nation never wavers.