Good Time for Rebuke

The Jewish calendar is set up so that Parshat Devarim always comes out on the Shabbat before Tisha B’Av. It appears that the main reason for this, is the theme of תוכחה, or rebuke.

The entire fifth book of the Torah, was Moshe Rabbeinu’s 37-day address to the Jewish people before his death. Before listing the numerous laws that appear in this book, Moshe recounts some of his past experiences as leader of Am Yisrael.

The Rabbis tell us that the best time to give rebuke, is before one passes away. There is the greatest likelihood that this rebuke will be taken seriously. This last conversation will remain on the minds and hearts of the loved ones, hearing these final words.

Moshe wanted to remind the nation where they had gone wrong in the past, so that these mistakes would not be repeated in the future.

He reminded them of their rebelliousness and lack of faith. He made it clear that they must cleave to Hashem when they enter Eretz Yisrael. He pointed out the foolishness of those who despised the land, and wanted to return to Egypt.

He spoke like a loving, devoted father, who wanted only the best for his people. He knew the road ahead would be difficult. He told them that they would always have to deal with enemies that wished to destroy us. We would always have to fight for our survival, but as long as we remained steadfast in our faith and reliance on Hashem, we would succeed.
It is clear that this is the appropriate message for the “nine days” and Tisha B’Av. We want to see an end to our suffering, and a return to the “days of old.”