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Foreward

Bereishis

Shmos

Vayikra

Bamidbar

   Bamidbar

Naso

Behaaloscha

Shelach

Korach

Chukas

Balak

Pinchas

Mattos

Maasei

Devarim

Festivals

Keeping In Touch - Volume 2
Torah Thoughts Inspired By The Works Of The Lubavitcher Rebbe,
Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson


Chukas

Written by Eliyahu Touger

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When speaking about the different types of mitzvos, the Torah singles out chukim as being unique. There is one category of mitzvos, mishpatim, which prescribe activities that make sense. Even if the Torah would not have been given, we would have understood the necessity to observe them on our own. You don't have to be G-d to know that you shouldn't kill, steal, or commit adultery.

There are other mitzvos, eidus, that commemorate certain events in our national history. We rest on Shabbos to commemorate the creation of the world in seven days. We eat matzos on Pesach to commemorate the matzos our ancestors ate during their exodus from Egypt. If G-d had not commanded these mitzvos, we probably would not have invented them. Yet once they were commanded, we understand why they were commanded and appreciate their observance.

Chukim are in a different category reason. There is no given for their observance. We don't know of any material or spiritual advantage that will be garnered by their observance; we fulfill them simply because G-d commands us to.

There are some who explain that it is important to have such commandments to show that our Torah observance involves a commitment beyond our personal will. Even when we do not understand what G-d has commanded us, we are willing to carry out His commandments. According to this understanding, the observance of these mitzvos is rather dry. Yes, it is necessary, but there is really no warmth or vibrancy to it.

Not everyone observes chukim in this way, however. On the contrary, we see some people who have a special joy in fulfilling chukim. Why? Because chukim relate to a point in the soul that is above our own will and our understanding. In the observance of these mitzvos, a person identifies with G-d on His terms. He or she is doing what G-d wants because He wants it and for no other reason. In essence, that is the most encompassing form of satisfaction a person can have.

Looking to the Horizon

The above enables us to appreciate one of the unique dimensions of the era of the Redemption. The Rambam states that "In that age, the occupation of the entire world will be solely to know G-d." Indeed, the singleness of aspiration that characterizes the chukim will resonate through all mankind, as the Prophet states: "All the nations will be transformed to [speak] a pure language ... to serve Him with a single purpose." For our energies will focus on comprehending G-d's truth.

We have a multitude of different desires. Now it's true, the inner motivation for any of our desires is G-dliness. At present, however, that inner dimension is covered by many other externals. We think we are seeking things like love, wealth, or power. We aren't aware of the essential drive propelling our will. For in any experience, what we are really seeking is the G-dly truth it contains. In the era of the Redemption, by contrast, this truth will surface, and in everything that we do, we will appreciate the G-dly intent.


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