Attitude of Gratitude
In Parashat Ki Tavo, we encounter a profound lesson on gratitude and generosity through the mitzvah of bikkurim, or “first fruits.” Deuteronomy 26:2 instructs us to “…take of the first of all the fruit of the ground…” to be given to Gd.
This commandment goes beyond a simple offering; its intent is to cultivate an “attitude of gratitude” that is fundamental to our spiritual and ethical development. By bringing the first and best of our harvest, we acknowledge that our success and abundance come not solely from our efforts, but from the blessings bestowed upon us by the Divine.
Rabbi Eliyahu Dessler teaches us that being created בצלם אלקים, “in Gd’s image,” means embodying Gd’s attribute of giving. Our purpose, as Rabbi Dessler eloquently states, is “to flourish and to help others flourish.” By giving our first fruits, we emulate Gd’s generosity and recognize our role as partners in creation and stewards of the blessings we receive.
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However, even with this innate capacity for giving, we sometimes need reminders to act upon it. The ritual of bringing the first fruits serves as such a reminder, institutionalizing gratitude and generosity in our lives. It is a recognition that while we may possess the desire to be gracious, the demands and distractions of daily life can sometimes overshadow this inclination.
Rabbi Yitzchak Hutner further illuminates this concept with his teaching that “The bestowal of hesed begets hesed.” This cyclical nature of kindness and gratitude reflects the divine order. Just as Gd gives to us, we are called to give to others, creating a continuous flow of blessing and abundance in the world.
However, the lesson of bikkurim extends far beyond ancient agricultural practices. It calls us into a constant awareness of our blessings and the responsibility that comes with them. In our modern context, we can apply this principle in myriad ways, fostering a community and world of increased kindness, gratitude, and generosity.
As we reflect on these timeless teachings, let us heed the call to action, embodying the mission of the Jewish Federation of San Antonio:
First, let us be generous of heart by pre-registering and attending the community gathering for the one-year anniversary of 10/7. This act of solidarity demonstrates our gratitude for our community and our commitment to standing together in times of remembrance and healing.
Second, we must be generous in action by educating ourselves and getting involved with the issues addressed by our local JCRC. Their recent efforts to preserve the secular nature of our public-school curriculum remind us of the importance of civic engagement and the protection of our shared values.
Lastly, let us be generous in philanthropy by investing in our San Antonio annual campaign. This campaign supports vital needs in our local community, contributes to international Jewish causes, and provides crucial aid to our brothers and sisters in Israel. By participating, we fulfill the essence of bikkurim—giving of our first and best to support the flourishing of our entire community.
As we internalize the lessons of Ki Tavo, may we cultivate an enduring attitude of gratitude, remembering that our blessings are meant to be shared. Let us strive to embody the divine attribute of giving, creating a cycle of hesed that enriches our lives and the lives of those around us. Through these actions, we not only honor our heritage but also build a stronger, more compassionate world for generations to come. Because we are…
Shabbat Shalom.
