Parashat Ekev: Finding Simcha and Significance in the “Small” Mitzvot

Good afternoon. Before diving into this week’s Torah message, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to all my wonderful friends in Santiago for your warmth and the beautiful Shabbat Nachamu we shared. Your thoughtfulness truly touched me—it was heartwarming and deeply appreciated.

Now, as we turn to Parashat Ekev, we uncover a timeless lesson about how we approach mitzvot—and the deep joy and value hidden in what may seem small.

Why “Ekev”? What’s in a Word?

The parsha begins with the phrase:

“Vehaya ekev tishme’un” — “And it shall come to pass because you will listen…”

This phrasing is unique. Instead of simply stating “when you obey,” the Torah uses the word “ekev,” which literally means “heel.” Rashi explains that this refers to the mitzvot that people might trample with their heels—those commandments we perceive as less important.

What Is the Torah Teaching Us?

• No mitzvah is small. The so-called “light” commandments, when done with sincerity, often carry the deepest rewards.

• Hashem notices what we overlook. The mitzvot we might deem “minor” are precisely the ones that test our humility and sincerity.

• We don’t classify mitzvot by personal logic. Each commandment is divinely designed and spiritually precise.

Simcha in Service: “Vehaya” and Joy

Chazal teach us that the word “vehaya” indicates joy, while “vayehi” often denotes sorrow or hardship. Why then does Moshe Rabbeinu open with a word denoting happiness?

Because avodat Hashem must come with simcha.

In Lashon HaKodesh, the Hebrew language, there are at least ten distinct words for joy—gila, rinah, ditzah, and others. This reflects the many layers and dimensions of Jewish joy. We don’t just perform mitzvot—we embrace them with spiritual gladness.

Why Is Joy So Central?

• Mitzvot are a privilege, not a burden. We are fortunate to be chosen to live a life of divine connection.

• Joy brings deeper meaning. When we’re joyful in our service, we elevate our actions and inspire others.

• Simcha strengthens our emunah. It helps us see the beauty even in challenge, and the presence of Hashem in every detail.

The Heel and the Heart: Elevating the Overlooked

Many times, we prioritize big mitzvot—Shabbat, Yom Kippur, kashrut—and subconsciously push aside others that seem less urgent. But the Torah is reminding us that the mitzvot “underfoot” may be the most spiritually impactful.

Consider These Everyday Opportunities:

• Speaking kindly to others

• Making a berachah with kavannah

• Returning a lost item

• Saying “thank you” sincerely

• Avoiding gossip in a casual conversation

These may seem small, but they shape who we are and how we reflect Hashem’s presence in this world.

A Final Lesson from Moshe Rabbeinu

When Moshe resisted returning to Egypt to lead the Jewish people, fearing jealousy from his older brother Aharon, Hashem assured him:

“He will see you and rejoice in his heart.”

From this, we learn the power of true humility and unconditional joy for another’s success. Aharon didn’t feel threatened—he felt joy. That is the simcha and achdut we must strive for.

Takeaway Message

Parashat Ekev calls us to value every mitzvah—especially the ones we tend to tread on. And even more so, it urges us to perform them with joy, recognizing that each one is a golden opportunity to connect with Hashem.

Let us walk forward with awareness, gratitude, and simcha in every step—even those taken with our heels.

Audio 2020