The Portion of Ekev As the Children of Israel continue their preparations to enter and conquer the Promised Land, Moses tells them that they have nothing to fear. While it is true that the inhabitants of the Land are numerous and strong, the Almighty has promised that with His help they will be defeated. "And you shall know today that the Lord your G-d goes before you" (Deuteronomy 9;3). But the people of Israel must know that G-d's help comes not as a result of their good deeds for since the Exodus from Egypt they committed many sins. "Remember, do not forget, how you angered the Lord your G-d" (ibid.9;7) To which sins in particular is Moses referring? He proceeds to enumerate them, one by one. In the word "hektzafta" (you angered) the letter "pay" is unusually curved, thus alluding to the fact that it is referring to more than one sin, anger following anger. (Baal Haturim)
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