Shabbat Shalom,
There is something undeniably peculiar about this week’s Torah portion, Sh’lach L’cha. Why would the Torah include a story in which God instructs Moses to send scouts to spy out the land of Canaan? Why not simply provide the Israelites with a divine report—complete with all the relevant details about what to expect?
After all, this is the same God who brought plagues upon Egypt, split the Sea of Reeds, and sustained the people with manna from heaven. Surely God could simply tell the people what to expect upon entering the land of Canaan. “No need for reconnaissance. I’ll tell you exactly how this is going to play out. You can trust Me.”
Instead, God instructs: “Send men to scout the land of Canaan…” (Numbers 13:2). The responsibility for gathering information about the Promised Land is delegated to the people. One representative from each of the twelve tribes is selected for the mission. Together, they are tasked with collecting data, evaluating obstacles, and bringing back a report. Even with the promise of divine support, the Torah emphasizes human initiative and accountability.
This is not just a narrative detail—it teaches us something profound about how we are meant to live in this world. The general principle is later articulated in the Talmud:
“In situations where there is clearly established danger or threat, we do not rely on a miracle–לָא סָמְכִינַן אַנִּיסָּא.” Talmud, Kiddushin 39b)
Faith in God does not absolve us from the responsibility to act. Especially when the risks are clear, we are called to plan carefully and act courageously. Even the generation that, according to Torah tradition, lived with daily miracles was expected to use reason and foresight. How much more so for us.
This principle could not be more relevant today. As we witness events unfold in Iran, we are reminded that moral change does not come from waiting on miracles. It comes from human courage, sacrifice, and action—even and perhaps especially when the risks are great.
I believe that God wants us to act in ways that bring more justice, meaning, security, peace, and abundance to the world. I believe that this is part of God’s vision for humanity. And—this is crucial—I also believe that God dignifies us by making us responsible for the work. God could will it all into being, but that would diminish us. Instead, as God’s partners, we are given the gift of responsibility.
Now—every now, every moment—is a time for action.
What is the work we must do to be worthy of entering the Promised Land? What must we do—as God’s partners—to help bring about the day “when corruption and evil shall give way to purity and goodness”?
This is our sacred task. When action is needed, may we embrace our responsibility and respond with courage and clarity. And may we always strive to be worthy partners in the ongoing work of redemption.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Yoshi