Deuteronomy 31:1 - 31:30

Hosea 14:2-10; Micah 7:18-20; Joel 2:15-27 | Shabbat Shuva

In this Torah portion, Moses concludes his speech to the Israelites, blesses Joshua, and instructs the community to gather every seven years to read publicly from the Torah. God predicts the eventual straying of the Israelites.

FULL SUMMARY

HAFTARAH SUMMARY

Quality Leaders

Moses and Joshua possessed leadership characteristics that we continue to look for in our leaders today.

More on this Torah Portion

Haftarah for Shabbat Shuvah

The Haftarah selection comes from Hosea 14:2-10 and Micah 7:18-20. Ashkenazic communities add Joel 2:15-27.

Moses’ Fate

The leader of the Israelites is not allowed to enter the Promised Land.

Models Of Leadership

Moses and God each instruct Joshua according to the different models of leadership each embodies.

The Song of Humanity

Song can remind us of our authentic selves and our genuine power.

A Land Flowing With Milk and Honey

The health of the land depends on our responsible behavior.

If Only It Weren’t So Violent

The commandments to destroy the seven Canaanite nations are perhaps best understood as a later generation's struggle with idolatry.

Strength In Numbers

The commandment to gather every seven years for a communal Torah reading reinforces the spirit of unity and commitment among the people.

Affirming And Spreading Our Core Values

The final commandments in the Torah, to gather as a community to hear the Torah and to write down a spiritual legacy, encourage us to re-engage with our core values.

Knowing One’s Place, Knowing One’s Time

Why is Moses reluctant to hand over leadership to Joshua?

Moses’ Approach Towards Death

Several commentaries interpret Moses's going to the people before his death.

Parashat Vayeilech Quiz

Learn more about the weekly Torah portion.

Parashat Vayeilech: Summary

Moses concludes his speech to the Israelites, blesses Joshua, and instructs the community to gather every seven years to read publicly from the Torah; God predicts the eventual straying of the Israelites.