Parshat Hashavuah Eikev

The Dvar Torah for Eikev can be found bellow.

  Have a good week and Shabbat Shalom to all.

  בס''ד

  Parashas Eikev

  I.  Giving Ourselves Credit
  And you will say in your heart, "It is my strength and the power of my
hand that did this valorous deed." (Devarim 8:17)


  B'nai Yisrael were nearing their destination of Eretz Yisrael; Moshe took
this opportunity to warn them of possible emotions they might experience as
they forge their way into the Promised Land.  As Hashem had already
promised, they would undoubtedly conquer the seven mighty and strongly
fortified nations living there, which could give rise to feelings of pride.
The Children of Israel would, perhaps, believe that it was actually their
own strength and military prowess that defeated these enemies.  They might
forget that God had long ago promised these events would occur, and only
through His Divine assistance.
  How is it possible that this nation that was enlightened by so many
miracles in the desert could make such a mistake?  Could they really take
credit for such an obvious miracle?  Could they logically explain how a
ragtag group such as themselves, untrained in the ways of war, could
decisively defeat the tremendous military might of the seven nations who
were entrenched and waiting for B'nai Yisrael's arrival?  Of course, the
hand of Hashem was the only answer!
  We see that our evil inclination could force one to deny even this clear
and obvious answer.  Gradually, it seems very feasible to believe that one's
cunning, talent and strength were the factors that brought about victory and
success.  It is extremely easy to become enthralled with such a notion.  For
this reason, Moshe continues, verse after verse, admonishing against this
dangerous self-aggrandizement.  He warns even the faithful and God-fearing
people, telling them it will not be by their merit that they will triumph,
but rather the merit of their forefathers.  Furthermore, the evil of the
seven nations is what will subject them to their own defeat.  "It is not by
your (B'nai Yisrael's) righteousness…that you have come to inherit the
land," Moshe emphasizes (ibid. 9:4-5, Ramban).
  This lengthy and harsh warning is given in order to battle the almost
inevitable reaction of our yetzer hara.  Reb Yisroel Salanter, similarly
gave advice to counter feelings of pride and arrogance.  When it seems we
have accomplished something wonderful, we must also remind ourselves of our
deficiencies and shortcomings, and not just give ourselves a pat on the
back.  Reflecting in this manner will allow the truth to shine forth:  It is
only through the ability Hashem has bestowed upon us that we accomplish
anything.  Logically, we will understand it is Hashem, not ourselves, who is
the moving force behind our successes.  Instread of basking in the thrill of
victory, let us praise and thank Hashem for all He makes possible for us.

Shabbat Shalom