A thought on Parshios Behar Bechukosai

"...v'asi'sem es chukosai v'es mishpotai tishmeru..." (25:18)
"...im b'chukosai telechu v'es mitzvosai tishmeru..." (26:3)

"...and you shall do My statutes and observe My laws..."
"...if you follow My statutes and observe My commandments..."

The Torah uses a number of expressions in referring to keeping its rules. At times we are told "to remember" them, "to do" them, "to observe" them and otherwise perform the forms of commandments known as statutes, precepts, rules, ordinances and laws. The concepts ofzechira, sh'mira, asi'ya and halicha are found throughout the Torah but are surely not put there at random. We know that "remembering" (zechira) connotes internal awareness while "observing" (sh'mira) and performing (asi'ya) refer to doing things. Is there a code or formula to help us understand the different nuances and placing of these terms?

 

The Ralbag suggests that "asi'ya" (doing) is written regarding chukim (statutes which have no obvious explanation, such as forbidden combinations of fabrics and foods) lest we think that such statutes are conceptual, and could be upheld through intellectual acceptance alone. Had the Torah written that we must observe the statutes, which is an internal experience, we might feel that understanding the theological concern suffices, with or without our actual performance or abstinence from that statute's parameters. It is only when we carry out the statute that we reach its objective. That is a matter of action and internal focus, but not one of mental state alone.

 

In turn, the word "sh'mira" (observance) is used regarding mishpatim, those rules and commandments which are more readily appreciated at a concrete, practical level (such as returning lost objects, paying employees...) The Torah stresses that we observe these rules, rather than just "perform" them, lest one think that these have such obvious meaning that one need not study them in order to understand them. The Torah wants us to observe these laws by way of in-depth understanding of their scope and detail. Doing them without accompanying clarity does not suffice.

 

As "observant" Jews, the Torah has us focusing on our deeds and actions, and on our internal awareness and focus as well. Both dimensions of experience are necessary in order for us to fulfill that Divine will. This requires careful behavior, and developing a sense of the depth and anatomy of the mitzvos. Service of HaShem is a full-service process.

 

Good Shabbos.  D. Fox