Division of the Torah into sedarim and parashot

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1. "Hak'hel:" The Septennial National Assembly

   Rabbi Elchanan Samet

   Why is the mitzvah of Hak’hel only mentioned in Moshe’s final days? What is the purpose of Hak’hel? This article debates the matter, with special focus on the Rambam’s view, and discusses the division of the Torah into parashot in relation to the mitzvah of Hak’hel.

2. Short Thoughts on Ki Tavo - Rebuke without Consolation?

   Rabbi Ezra Bick | 5 minutes

   Most of Parshat Ki Tavo is composed of the Tokhekha -the rebuke and the curses detailing what will happen if Bnei Yisrael do not keep the Divine Covenant. In many ways, the rebuke in this parsha is less harsh than the rebuke in Behukotai, but in Behukotai (in the book of Vayikra) there is also consolation at the end. In our parsha, there is no consolation – though next week’s parsha does contain consolation.

   Is there some meaning and educational or religious purpose in the division of the parshiyyot such that our parsha ends in the midst of despair? Perhaps the answer is connected to the time of year wherein this Parsha is read. A situation wherein we contemplate the dire situation for a while, and then receive a glimmer of hope, can be a catalyst for teshuva and growth.

3. Parashat Beha'alotekha: The Three Books of Bamidbar

   Rabbi Yair Kahn

   According to Rebbi in Tractate Shabbat, the parasha of "Va-yehi binsoa" is the dividing point of Sefer Bamidbar. In fact, Rebbi goes even farther, considering the sections of Bamidbar before and after this parasha as distinct books. A quick overview of Bamidbar is sufficient to reveal the sharp contrast that underlies Rebbi's position and a glimpse into the ideal purpose of Sefer Bamidbar - a profound truth about the essence of Am Yisrael and their relationship to God.