Mishneh Torah, Kings and Wars 3

Hook

As you explore the path of gerut, you're not just learning facts; you're discovering a profound way of life centered on a covenant. This ancient text offers a glimpse into the ideal commitment to Torah, a commitment that beautifully mirrors the sincerity and dedication you're building on your journey.

Context

• This text comes from Maimonides' Mishneh Torah, a foundational codification of Jewish law that outlines the practices and principles governing Jewish life.
• Here, Maimonides details the unique responsibilities of a Jewish king, particularly his deep, personal connection to the Torah.
• The meticulous process, including a court of 71 elders checking the king's Torah scroll, underscores the communal and sacred nature of our tradition, reflecting the careful and sincere process of joining the Jewish people.

Text Snapshot

"...one, in whose writing, he is obligated as is every individual Israelite, and which he places in his treasury; the second, which should not move from his presence except when he enters a lavatory... When he goes to war, this scroll should accompany him. When he returns, it should accompany him. When he sits in judgement, it should be with him. When he dines, it should be opposite him, as Deuteronomy 17:19 states: 'It should accompany him and he should read it all the days of his life.'"

Close Reading

Insight 1: Shared Responsibility for Torah

The text states the king is obligated to write one Torah scroll "as is every individual Israelite." This reveals that a deep, personal engagement with Torah isn't just for leaders; it's a foundational responsibility and privilege for everyone in the Jewish covenant. Your journey is about embracing this shared, sacred commitment.

Insight 2: Torah as a Constant Companion

The king's second scroll, which "should not move from his presence," illustrates an ideal of continuous, intimate connection to Torah. It's not just a book for study, but a living guide meant to permeate every aspect of life – in war, judgment, and even at the dinner table. This portrays a beautiful aspiration for how Torah can become central to your lived rhythm.

Lived Rhythm

To cultivate this sense of Torah as a constant companion, commit to a small, daily practice: choose a specific time each day – perhaps five minutes with a short D'var Torah (a thought on the weekly Torah portion) or a selected bracha (blessing) to learn and internalize its meaning.

Community

Connect with a rabbi or attend an "Intro to Judaism" class at a local synagogue. These spaces offer opportunities to discuss how these ancient ideals translate into modern Jewish living and provide a supportive community for your exploration.

Takeaway

The path of gerut is an invitation to embrace this profound, personal, and communal covenant with Torah, allowing its wisdom to guide and enrich your life.