MY DAILY LIFE TORAH COACH:
Parashat Ki Tavo n.51

Parashat Ki Tavo focuses on the Israelites’ entrance into the Promised Land: the ceremonies they will follow once they arrive and then get settled, and the consequences of obeying or disobeying G-d’s laws in their new home. This parashah concludes the laws given in Deuteronomy 12–26, spelling out the blessings and curses that will follow, depending on how the Israelites fulfill their obligations. Moses calls upon the people to walk in G-d’s ways and observe G-d’s commandments (26:17) and reassures them of G-d’s promise to make Israel a treasured, holy people (26:18). At the end of the parashah, Moses’ last speech to the Israelites begins, which focuses on the wonders they have witnessed since fleeing Egypt. Once again, Moses recalls the events of the past in order to positively influence the people’s behavior in the future.

What does it teaches us?

As I enter the High Holy Days, it is a time each year for self-reflection. What are the good deeds I’ve done this year? Have I been a good person to those around me? What lessons have I learned from my mistakes? Whom have I hurt with my words or actions? 

Each year we have the benefit of turning over a new leaf and rededicate ourselves to living the best of our lives. It requires us to look within our mistakes and make things right with others. We need to ask what we can do better and how we can enhance even our family and community. Reflecting on the things that went wrong is an essential element to becoming a better person. We must remind ourselves what it means to be a good person rooted in Jewish beliefs. In the end, if we open ourselves up to improving our lives, we can become our better selves to our friends, family, and community.