Parshat Pinchas
June 28, 2002

SHEMA YISRAEL VI

The third and final way one is instructed to love Hashem is Uvechol Meodecha – with all of your might. Besides dedicating ones heart and soul, one must also demonstrate love to G-d through their worldly efforts and accomplishments.

It is interesting to note that the Talmud in Tractate Brachot chapter 9 remarks that the reason the Shema mentions the soul as well as possessions (implying that if you love G-d with your soul/life isn’t it obvious that you love Him with your physical possessions?) is because some people value life more than possessions and some people value possessions more than life.

Woe to the person who cares more about his money than his life. I remember seeing a slogan on a poster many years ago that stated, “ The One That Dies With The Most Toys Wins”. This childish and pleasure based statement reflects the exact opposite of the goals and values of the Torah. As we say in the Kiddush of Friday night “Asher Barah Elokim Laasot- that G-d has created a world for us to develop. Our mission is to be productive and generate greatness not to accumulate wealth for its own sake.

Uvechol Meodecha - HaRav Schwab zt”l explains that the word Meod is used to describe extremity. The word Tov means good and Tov Meod means very good. Therefore Uvechol Meodecha can be understood to mean – with your very unique and special qualities that set you apart from everyone else.

All Jews serve G-d in a uniform manner documented in the Shulchan Aruch – Code of Jewish law. We pray, say blessings, perform rituals, attend synagogue……………(to mention a few).. The Shema is calling upon us to express the real and unique you like only you can. As the Talmud remarks – “No two face are alike, and no two approaches are alike”. Every Jew has a contribution to make to the people of Israel. Our individuality and creativity can and should be utilized and demonstrated not only in hobbies and on vacations but also in our daily service to Hashem – Uvechol Meodecha.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Ephraim Epstein

*Helpful Hint* Jot down some of the interpretations you learn into the margins of your personal siddur. This will enable you to access and utilize these and other Tefilla tips more easily.