In this week's shiur on Parshat Ki Tavo, I delves into the powerful mitzvah of Bikkurim (bringing the first fruits). The Torah doesn't just command us to bring the fruits; it specifies a unique verbal declaration to be made before the Kohen. This declaration recounts the entire journey of the Jewish people—from the suffering in Egypt to the redemption and arrival in the land of Israel. Drawing on the teachings of Rav Haim Kramer, this episode explores why vocalizing our gratitude, for both the good and the seemingly bad, is a fundamental tool for reshaping our reality, breaking negative cycles, and connecting with Hashem on a deeper level.
Gratitude Must Be Vocalized. It's not enough to simply feel thankful in your heart. The Torah commands us to recite a specific formula when bringing the first fruits. This teaches that true gratitude requires active, verbal expression. We must use our mouths to declare our thanks to Hashem, making the internal feeling a concrete reality.
Embrace the Entire Journey: Thank Hashem for the "Bad" Too. The declaration of the first fruits doesn't just celebrate the harvest; it purposefully recounts the slavery in Egypt ("The Egyptians dealt harshly with us and oppressed us"). This teaches a profound lesson: we must thank Hashem not just for the positive outcomes, but for the struggles and challenges that led to them. The "downs" are an essential prerequisite for the "ups," and acknowledging the entire process is a core part of genuine gratitude.
Use Gratitude to Reshape Your Present and Future. By actively thanking Hashem for current challenges, we accomplish two things. First, we break the cycle of negativity that can keep us feeling "down." Second, we express profound faith that an "uplifting" is coming. This practice trains us to maintain a state of happiness and trust, no matter the circumstance. As Maynard puts it, "Our lips can write the checks already," affirming our belief in a positive future and bringing that reality closer