Parashat Devarim: Always relevant

Parashat Devarim, the fifth book of the Torah, reviews commandments and includes Moses's farewell and guidance to the Jewish people before entering the Land of Israel. A key passage states that Moses "began to explain this Torah" in the fortieth year, in the land of Moab (Deuteronomy 1:3-5). Rashi comments that he "explained it to them in 70 languages." This raises questions about the necessity of multiple languages when the nation was united by Hebrew, and the historical caution against translating the Torah.

The commentary HaKetav VeHaKabbalah explains that "70 languages" refers to "70 interpretations," aligning with the teaching that "the Torah has 70 facets."

However, many commentators understand Rashi literally. Hassidic thought suggests Moses prepared the people for future exiles, ensuring the Torah's study in various languages. The article concludes that Moses's act signifies the Torah's eternal ability to speak to every generation "in its own language," making its message relevant and accessible in all eras and circumstances, thereby affirming its enduring vitality and guidance for life.