Parashat Ekev: The Land and a Tale of Two Psalms

In the face of contemporary anti-Israel demonstrations, Rabbi Meir Soloveichik's reflection on Parashat Ekev offers a profound exploration of the enduring Jewish connection to the Land of Israel. This week's Torah portion, Deuteronomy 7-11, emphasizes the land's divine bounty and the obligation of gratitude through birkat ha-mazon, the blessing after meals. This blessing, rooted in Deuteronomy 8:10, serves as a reminder of the Israelites' duty to thank God for the land's abundance, a practice that has persisted even during times of exile. The juxtaposition of Psalms 137 and 126 in Jewish tradition underscores the duality of mourning and hope, reflecting the Jewish people's resilience and unwavering connection to their homeland. Rabbi Soloveichik highlights how these psalms, recited in different contexts, symbolize the Jewish capacity for honest reflection on past tragedies and an enduring hope for return and redemption.