Re'eh | Banim Atem - Why Here, Why Now?

Re'eh | Banim Atem - Why Here, Why Now? by Rav Yitzchak Etshalom

The turning point in Parashat Re'eh is at the beginning of Chapter 14. Having completed the presentation of Mitzvot related to idolatry and the special place where "Hashem will choose to cause His Name to reside," Mosheh's speech turns to issues of ritual sanctity, including a prohibition against cutting oneself as a funerary act. This prohibition is introduced with a declaration that "You are children of Hashem, your God." The connection between this powerful statement and the prohibitions which ensure is explored. Five different approaches suggested by the Rishonim are presented, followed by a sixth... What is the immediate implication of the address "You are children of Hashem your God" (בנים אתם לה' אלקיכם) which bisects Parashat Re'eh?

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