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Why does the Torah (תורה) use conditional language ('if you lend money') for obligatory mitzvos? The shiur identifies three such cases and develops the yesod that mitzvos must be performed with genuine desire, not grudging compliance. Conditional phrasing teaches that while obligation is absolute, proper performance comes from joy and authentic choice rather than duress.
Rabbi Zweig examines the puzzling conditional language in Parshas Mishpatim regarding lending money, where the Torah (תורה) says 'if you lend money' when it's actually obligatory. He identifies three places where the Torah uses similar conditional language: lending money, building an altar, and bringing the Omer offering. The central insight is that while mitzvos are absolute obligations ('naase v'nishma' - we do before we understand), the proper manner of performance is as if by choice, not under duress. Using the analogy of teaching children to keep their rooms neat, Rabbi Zweig explains that doing mitzvos reluctantly creates resentment and defeats the purpose. When parents force neatness without developing appreciation, children rebel once independent. Similarly, mitzvos performed grudgingly miss their transformative potential.
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Parshas Mishpatim - lending money
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