Page 292 - DVARIM

“See, I present before you today a blessing and
a curse”

(Devarim 11:26)

There is a direct connection between parshiyot Re’eh, regarding the
pilgrimage to Yerushalayim on the festivals, and Shoftim,where oneis
adjured to obtain the ruling of the Kohen and judges for halachic
questions. The very air of Yerushalayim makes one wise. This is the
purpose of ascending to this city.

The author of Ma’or Vashemesh asks why it is imperative to first seek the
Kohen before seeking the opinion of the judge. He answers that the very
first doubt was planted by Adam Harishon in Gan Eden. He cast
uncertainty upon Hashem’s word and preferred to listen to his wife,
instead. This doubt gave rise to all future doubts in halachah. Doubt is an
offshoot of arrogance. One who holds highly of his own opinion is likely
to cast aspersions upon the opinions of those greater than himself.

How precious is the quality of humility! Beit Hillel and Beit Shammai
had vastly different halachic opinions, yet they had tremendous respect
for one another. Their arguments were for the sake of Heaven, and will,
therefore, endure. Yiftach’s conceit, however, prevented him from
seeking counsel with Pinchas the Kohen, who had the ability to annul his
vow. He was punished with a horrible death. Pinchas, too, was punished # 26347-EYAL-6

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