1. The Command to Enter and Purify the Land
The section of Shlishi in Parshas Masse is strikingly relevant to the current situation in Eretz Yisrael—the Holy Land. Our prayers are with our brothers and sisters there, especially the soldiers fighting to protect Eretz Yisrael and all the Jewish people. The Torah describes how Hashem spoke to Moshe on the plains of Moyav, by the Jordan River near Yericho, instructing him to speak to Bnei Yisrael as they prepare to cross into Canaan. Hashem repeats that they are about to cross the Jordan, even though this has been stated before. Rashi explains that this repetition emphasizes that their success and the miracle of crossing the Jordan depend on a specific condition: they must drive out all the inhabitants of the land. The Torah commands them to destroy houses of worship, images, and altars of the nations living there.2. The Condition for Dwelling Securely in the Land
The Torah makes it clear that only by removing these nations can Bnei Yisrael securely inherit and dwell in the land. Rashi interprets that if they fail to chase out these inhabitants, they will not be able to settle peacefully. The Torah presents both a positive command—to drive out the nations—and a warning: if any are left behind, they will become “thorns in your eyes” and “pegs in your sides.” Rashi elaborates that these remnants will cause ongoing trouble and difficulty for Bnei Yisrael. The verse concludes with a stern warning: what Hashem intended to do to those nations, He will instead do to Bnei Yisrael if they fail in this mission. These strong words highlight how critical it is for Am Yisrael to follow Hashem’s command fully.3. Contemporary Relevance: Israel’s Struggles and Sacrifices
The Rebbe often addressed situations like these, urging swift action when Israel faces threats. He warned that delays only increase pressure and casualties, emphasizing that Israel must act decisively for its own safety. The Torah’s message is clear: failing to remove threats leads to ongoing suffering. This lesson resonates today as we witness young people, including “lone soldiers”—Americans who voluntarily join the Israeli army—sacrificing their lives for Klal Yisrael. One such young man recently fell in battle after making aliyah following a Birthright trip. These sacrifices must not be in vain; their ultimate goal is peace and security for all Jews.4. The Reality of Anti-Semitism and Media Bias
Unfortunately, we live in an anti-Semitic world where global opinion often turns against Israel regardless of circumstance. Even when acknowledging Israel’s right to self-defense, critics quickly add caveats about casualties, implying greater concern for enemy losses than for Israeli lives. There are reports of terrorists using human shields—even holding babies while attacking soldiers—knowing Israeli forces will hesitate rather than harm innocents. Despite efforts by Israel’s military and leadership to minimize civilian casualties, critics persistently question their actions without acknowledging these ruthless tactics.5. Halachic Perspectives on War and Defense
The laws of war found in Chumash include exemptions such as shona achas yihiyeh neki l’beiso—a newlywed is exempt from battle for one year—but these do not apply during a milchemes mitzvah, an obligatory war for survival or defense of Eretz Yisrael. A personal example illustrates this: a young man from our community married just a month ago but was immediately mobilized due to the war. As head of his unit, he faces daily danger clearing booby-trapped homes in Gaza. Even after being wounded by shrapnel, he returned home only briefly before going back into combat—a testament to his dedication and courage.6. The Moral Clarity of Israel’s Cause
Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza removed any territorial dispute over that area; yet attacks continue because terror groups seek only Jewish blood rather than land or compromise. They exploit their own civilians as propaganda tools while accusing Israel of atrocities. Despite this grim reality, there is broad unity among Israelis about the necessity of defending themselves at all costs—a consensus born from understanding that survival is at stake.7. Hope for Redemption Amidst Struggle
We pray that Hashem will grant victory swiftly with minimal loss on both sides, as our goal is not destruction but peace and security for Am Yisrael. If we fulfill Hashem’s commandment fully—v’horashtem es kol yoshvei ha’aretz—then we are promised tranquility in our land. May this period of mourning during the Three Weeks be transformed into days of joy with the coming of Mashiach, bringing lasting peace and redemption for all Jews everywhere.