This week we begin reading the Torah from the beginning in the section “Bereishit,” and it opens with the famous verse, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” This verse is a grandiose start to the Bible, opening with a big bang, both in the literal and dramatic sense.
However, the grandiose mood is immediately interrupted by the most important Jewish Bible commentator, Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki, 1040–1105). He begins his biblical commentary on the first verse of Genesis in a typically Jewish manner, namely with an unsolicited suggestion for improvement. Rashi quotes an ancient Jewish tradition (Midrash), here the first part:
“Rabbi Yitzchak said: ‘God could have begun the Torah with the words “This month shall be for you…” for this is the first commandment that was given to Israel.'”
The Rabbi was referring to the verse, “This month shall be the beginning of months for you; it shall be the first month of the year for you.” This verse commands the people of Israel to align their calendar with...
Become a Member
-
Read all member content
Get exclusive in-depth reports from Israel.
-
Get exclusive in-depth reports from Israel
Connect with Israel, right from your home.
-
Lift up the voice of truth and hope
Support Jerusalem-based Zionist journalism.
Already a member? Login here.
