In the double Torah portion we read this past Shabbat, Behar–Bechukotai, the Torah lays out the foundations for Jewish life in Eretz Yisrael. At its core is the delicate balance between hishtadlut—human effort and responsibility—and the clear recognition that ultimately, “כִּי לִי הָאָרֶץ, כִּי גֵרִים וְתוֹשָׁבִים אַתֶּם עִמָּדִי” (“Ki li ha’aretz, ki gerim ve-toshavim atem imadi” — “For the land is Mine; for you are strangers and residents with Me”) (Vayikra 25:23).

This balance is reflected in the powerful imagery of “iron” found in the Tochachah: “וְנָתַתִּי אֶת שְׁמֵיכֶם כַּבַּרְזֶל” (“Ve-natati et shemeichem ka-barzel” — “I will make your skies like iron”) (Vayikra 26:19). Rashi explains that iron here symbolizes a closed reality—heavens that no longer allow rain and blessing to descend. The skies become sealed like iron, reminding us that even strength itself can become an obstacle when disconnected from its spiritual source.

In our generation, “iron” has taken on an entirely new meaning. The “Iron Dome” has become a symbol of protection and security. Yet precisely here the Torah’s warning becomes especially relevant: “וְשָׁבַרְתִּי אֶת גְּאוֹן עֻזְּכֶם” (“Ve-shavarti et ge’on uzzechem” — “I will break the pride of your strength”). The Sforno........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)