Parashat Ki Tavo, Bikurim, and the Power of Gratitude Before Rosh Hashanah

As we approach Rosh Hashanah, we’re reminded of our opportunity to reconnect with Hashem. This week’s Parashat Ki Tavo is full of powerful lessons on accountability, gratitude, and the importance of collective unity in our Avodat Hashem. It opens with the mitzvah of Bikurim, a celebration of first fruits, but more deeply, a call to remember our roots and reflect on our journey as a nation—and as individuals.

Why is this Parasha read before Rosh Hashanah?

Parashat Ki Tavo contains the tochachot, the rebukes that Moshe Rabbeinu gave to Bnei Yisrael. These painful prophecies—many of which tragically materialized during the destruction of the Second Beit Hamikdash, the Spanish Inquisition, the pogroms, and the Shoah—are not meant to scare, but to wake us up. We are reminded that actions have consequences, and that Hashem seeks to bless us—but we must be worthy vessels to receive His blessings.

The Torah emphasizes, “Hashem will open for you His treasure store” (Devarim 28:12)—but only if we show we can receive them with responsibility and humility.

The Bikurim: A Model for Unity and Humble Gratitude

The mitzvah of Bikurim teaches us how to thank Hashem not just with words, but with action. Farmers would mark their first fruits and bring them to the Beit Hamikdash with joy. However, the Torah mandated that this would only begin 14 years after entering the Land of Israel—when all tribes had received their portion. Why? Because we don’t rejoice alone. Unity comes before celebration.

Whether wealthy or poor, each person brought a basket of their own making. The silver and gold baskets of the rich were returned—but the humble, handmade baskets of the poor were treasured in the Beit Hamikdash. Hashem cherishes heartfelt effort more than material wealth.

A Deeper Lesson in Gratitude and Perspective

The Torah requires each person to proclaim the Viduy Bikurim, beginning with the words “Arami oved avi”—recounting our history from Lavan’s persecution to slavery in Egypt and finally, redemption. This teaches us that true gratitude requires memory. “Ve’amarta… higadeti”—you shall say in the future, but also recall the past.

Elohim is the time to look back: to acknowledge Hashem’s kindness, to thank Him, and to rejoice in our portion. As Chazal teach, the wise person is one who sees the “half-full cup.” That perspective brings simcha.

Moshe warns that punishment comes “tachat asher lo avadta et Hashem b’simcha”—because you didn’t serve Hashem with joy. Complaining, comparing, and dwelling on lack distances us from Hashem. The Bikurim teach us to instead look at the blessings and say: Thank You.

As we prepare for the Yom HaDin, let’s remember:

• Every step we take toward Hashem matters.

• Gratitude begins with reflection.

• True simcha comes from unity and seeing the good.

Let us come before Hashem with the same devotion, humility, and joy that our ancestors brought their Bikurim—with hearts full of hakarat hatov and a renewed commitment to live meaningfully.