Posted on July 31, 2026 by Jay Lavroff
This week’s portion, Eikev, opens with Moses continuing his oration that commenced last week. The people are poised to enter the Promised Land. Moses revisits the blessings that will result if they adhere to God’s commandments, and the very bad things that will happen if they do not.
Moses reminds the people how God cared for them while they wandered in the wilderness, giving them “manna to eat… in order to teach you that a human being does not live on bread alone.” (Deuteronomy 8:3) Moses then describes the land they are about to enter as a “good land,” with ample water from streams, springs and fountains and abundant food, including the seven species of the Bible; wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives and honey. Agricultural staples with both nutritional and cultural significance. Moses tells the people that they may eat to their heart’s content and will lack nothing. (Deuteronomy, 8:7-9).
This evening, I will explore our tradition of blessing God in thanks for our food and sustenance, the Birkat HaMazon blessing. By giving thanks every time we consume our food, we are affirming that we do not live on bread alone.
Please join me and Cantor Wallach for services this evening.
Shabbat Shalom,
Jay Lavroff, guest leader