וילך משה

What is the significance of the term וילך?  When Moshe Rabeinu went to speak to the Jewish People, he always “went” to speak to them.  What is this coming to teach us?

We find the same term - וילכו - regarding Korban Pesach.   Rebbe Yisachar Dov of Belz explained that this is referring to Moshe and Aharon, who also went to bring the Korban Pesach. 

How can this be?  Is there the slightest doubt that Moshe and Aharon brought the Korban Pesach?  He explained it with a story:  Once, the Rebbe R. Elimelech of Lizensk had to leave the city.  As his wagon was leaving town, the entire population walked alongside to escort him.  When he saw this, he got off the wagon and also walked together with the crowd. When asked about it, he explained that he was excited by the enthusiasm of the crowd.  When he saw their enthusiasm, he also wanted to be part of it!

When the Jewish people brought the Korban Pesach, Moshe and Aharon saw their enthusiasm at bringing the Korban, to do Hashem’s will.  They also went, to do Hashem’s will, together with the same excitement.

In our parsha, Moshe Rabeinu had just finished learning Parshas HaTeshuva with the Jewish People.  He told them how close it is to them, to do Hashem’s will.  Moshe Rabeinu saw the enthusiasm of the Jewish people, and “went” along with their excitement!

As we begin Slichos tonight, we learn from this that we have to take with us the enthusiasm and excitement that accompanied the Slichos throughout all the generations.  In this merit, may we be blessed with a good year!

Seuda Shlishis, Parshas Nitzavim-Vayelech 5769