Parashat D’varim (Words)
D’varim (Deuteronomy) 1:1-3:22
Haftarah: Isaiah 1:1–27
Shabbat Hazon (Vision)

This week’s Haftarah reading is particularly significant as it concludes the three weeks leading up to Tisha b’Av, a day of profound mourning in Jewish history. This period is dedicated to reflecting on the calamities that have befallen our people, especially the destruction of the First and Second Temples and the subsequent exile into the diaspora. This specific Shabbat is known as “Shabbat Hazon,” named after the vision of Isaiah.

Isaiah 1:1 introduces the theme of this Shabbat:

The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz concerning Judah and Jerusalem, which he saw during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.

This vision reveals the dire spiritual condition of Israel during the First Temple period. Throughout history, Israel has often strayed from God, leading to a spiritual state that seldom aligns with His desires.

This week’s Scripture portion from Deuteronomy serves as a powerful reminder of God’s teachings – and our tendencies to stray from them. Deuteronomy is a book of reminders, emphasizing crucial points for believers. We often forget God’s commands and His role in our lives, and God repeats important teachings to stress their significance. Reflecting on the dangers of self-reliance and the consequences of manipulating situations or people, it is vital to honestly search our heart's motivation in serving God.

In the Parashah, Israel's attempts to do what is right in their strength to please God illustrate the pitfalls of self-reliance. Motivated possibly by fear rather than genuine devotion, Israel failed to heed God’s instructions:

Then you replied to me, ‘We have sinned against the LORD; we ourselves will go up and fight, just as the LORD our God commanded us.’ And every man of you strapped on his weapons of war, and you viewed it as easy to go up into the hill country. But the LORD said to me, ‘Say to them, “Do not go up nor fight, for I am not among you; otherwise you will be defeated by your enemies.”’ So I spoke to you, but you would not listen. Instead, you rebelled against the command of the LORD, and acted presumptuously and went up into the hill country. And the Amorites who lived in that hill country came out against you and chased you as bees do, and they scattered you from Seir to Hormah. Then you returned and wept before the LORD; but the LORD did not listen to your voice, nor pay attention to you. So you remained at Kadesh for many days, the days that you spent there.
Deuteronomy 1:41–46

Isaiah’s words in this week’s Haftarah are harsh, addressing the rulers and people of Judah with stern condemnation:

Hear the word of the LORD, You rulers of Sodom; listen to the instruction of our God, you people of Gomorrah! “What are your many sacrifices to Me?” says the LORD. “I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams and the fat of fattened cattle; and I take no pleasure in the blood of bulls, lambs, or goats. When you come to appear before Me, who requires of you this trampling of My courtyards? Do not go on bringing your worthless offerings, Incense is an abomination to Me. New moon and Sabbath, the proclamation of an assembly— I cannot endure wrongdoing and the festive assembly. I hate your new moon festivals and your appointed feasts, they have become a burden to Me; I am tired of bearing them. So when you spread out your hands in prayer, I will hide My eyes from you; yes, even though you offer many prayers, I will not be listening. Your hands are covered with blood.”
Isaiah 1:10-15

These verses challenge us to consider why God would reject the very practices He commanded. The answer lies in the heart. God desires sincere devotion rather than empty rituals. When our observances become mere religious acts devoid of true worship and relationship with Him, they lose their intended purpose.

In today’s world, we face similar challenges. Many practice their faith out of routine or societal pressure rather than genuine devotion. Like ancient Israel, we might go through the motions—attending services, participating in rituals—yet miss the deeper connection with God. Modern society often emphasizes external success and appearances, which can infiltrate our spiritual lives. We might prioritize looking devout over truly being devout, focusing on public displays of faith rather than private, heartfelt worship.

The current global situation, with its various crises and challenges, also tempts us to take matters into our own hands. We might rely on our strength and wisdom to navigate difficult times, forgetting to seek God’s guidance and trust in His plan. Deuteronomy warns us about the danger of presumption and self-reliance. Even if our motives are right, our actions must align with God's way. Observance should reflect genuine worship and relationship with God, not just ritualistic practice.

God’s Word is a constant reminder of His desires and instructions. As followers of Yeshua, we should not fall into the same errors as ancient Israel. Instead, let us embrace God’s call with humility and gratitude, continually aligning our hearts and actions with His will. May I encourage you to reflect on your heart’s motivation and ensure your observance and worship are rooted in sincere devotion? Let this Shabbat Hazon be a time to renew your commitment to following God’s ways with genuine humility and devotion.

As a reminder: "Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keeps the Torah (God’s teachings), happy is he" (Proverbs 29:18).

Shabbat Shalom,
Moran