Once again we see more incontrovertible proof that, despite modern and moody diatribes about a constant struggle, it is possible and even commanded - a command to make this verbally known to all - of spiritual perfection.
How so?
After bringing all the correct tithes (and later I enjoyed some research clarifying that this was the terumah offering to the kohanim, the first tithe (10% to the Levi'im), the second tithe (consumption of food within Jerusalem or purchase of food using funds received from tithed offerings in years one, two, four and five), and the third tithe (offerings to the poor in years three and six)) - the tither was commanded to offer a verbal statement which included the guarantee that "I have listened to the Voice of G-d" and acted in accordance with "everything/all" that G-d commanded.
And as a result of this apparent behavioral perfection, G-d should look down from G-d's residence/dwelling and bless us and our land.
It's superficially a perfect if this then that logic - perfect observance and heeding of the Voice of G-d will lead to blessing. But, of course, it's not really - because the same Holy Entity that commanded the action is then rewarding the action. It has hints of partnership, but it seems to be more of a back-and-forth here.
At the same time, the behavior also seems to be in the compound - heeding G-d's Voice and observing all that has been commanded. And what the Torah comes to tell us here is that full clarity on both issues is not only expected but also demanded - otherwise, what is the tither supposed to honestly say after bringing the tithe?
If this was true, I genuinely wonder how many in ancient Israel were, in fact, living totally spiritually perfect lives. Perhaps this is why I believe it is the Midrash that says there were ten thousand prophets in Israel back in ancient times - even that being a likely understatement.
In any case, I am beginning to feel my individual and holy corner of Torah emerging - that through the messy formation of pure spiritual entities that our forefathers were, we can emerge - in our own land, and with a blessing upon first our household (always the most important), and then us, and then the Jewish people, and then the entire planet - through spiritually perfect actions. This is enlightenment - a concept, as I've repeatedly written, I had previously believed was not available to me but as I learn more not only is, in fact, available but also must be achieved. And I appreciate the urgency and necessity of this demand, which is seemingly the meaning, or at least part of the meaning, of life!
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