P² Parsha Perspectives: Parshat Ki Tavo

Before the conclusion of the Jewish calendar year, we read about the curses that would befall the Jewish people if they fail to follow in Hashem's ways in this week's Parsha, Parshat Ki Tavo. The Torah tells us the reason that these calamities would occur; "Since you did not serve Hashem with happiness and a cheerful heart."(Devarim 28:47)

 

Although many Torah commentaries and Ethical Masters (Ba'alei Mussar) over the centuries explain the importance and exact definition of happiness pertaining to one's service of Hashem, I was wondering what is the exact definition and significance of "cheerful heart" mentioned in the verse and how it contrasts from "happiness?"

 

Targum Onkelos on this verse translates the words "cheerful heart" in Aramaic as "shapirat liba." The word "shapir" in Aramaic has several definitions. One definition of the word is handsome (see Bava Metzia 84a). Handsomeness is an exterior quality that is readily visible. Perhaps then happiness, referred to at the beginning of the verse, is an internal state of being. Indeed, Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch in his commentary on this verse defines happiness as such. Perhaps then a cheerful heart is the external manifestation of happiness visible to all who encounter the Jew who serves Hashem. The curses then befell the Jews because they did not perform mitzvot with both inner and outward happiness.

 

We ask Hashem on Rosh Hashanah for a sweet year, filled with happiness for ourselves, our family, and our people. Perhaps this verse is teaching us right before the High Holidays that although Hashem judges and determines the outcome of the coming year, much of how we view the world and life as a whole is dependent on the extent of developing ourselves into positive individuals during this upcoming year. May we all merit a wonderful upcoming year predicated on truly noticing, appreciating, and internalizing the many blessings we are gifted from Hashem in our lives on a constant basis.