Israel's Constitution

The following is taken from my father's writings.

Moses, the devoted shepherd of the Children of Israel, continues his farewell address to his flock, stressing the need for them to observe mitzvot. Moses’ review of Israel’s experience during their forty years of wandering in the wilderness is not merely historical, but essentially focused on preparing the nation for its future. Knowing that he will not lead the people into the Promised Land, Moses emphasizes time and again that if Israel remains faithful to God’s will, it will inherit the Land and dwell there safely. Torah does not depend upon the Land of Israel, but Israel depends upon Torah.

Constitutions which guide nations come from the nations. After a national entity has been established, it leaders create a constitution. Nationhood typically precedes a constitution. The Jewish people are the exception. Before we had a land of our own, we already had a national constitution, the law according to which we live and which guides our lives. Torah preceded the Land of Israel. Israel’s nationhood began when it stood at the foot of Mount Sinai and accepted Torah, the national constitution.

 Thus, what Moses told Israel before it crossed the River Jordan applies equally in our time, when our people have returned to Zion not to establish a nation, but to resume our nationhood.