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Why do the nations challenge Parah Adumah specifically, when they could question our entire Na'aseh V'Nishma commitment? Chukim reveal that the ultimate benefit of all mitzvos isn't their specific functions but the hishtabdus (spiritual servitude) to Hashem (ה׳) that creates kedushah. This foundation of voluntary subjugation leading to elevation is completely inaccessible to the nations.
Rabbi Yeshaya Greenberg ZT"L begins by addressing a fundamental question about Parshas Parah: why do the nations of the world specifically challenge Klal Yisrael about the mitzvah (מצוה) of Parah Adumah, asking 'why should you do it?' when there are seemingly much bigger questions they could ask. The most obvious challenge would be our declaration of Na'aseh V'Nishma - how can we commit to doing mitzvos before even knowing what they are, let alone understanding their reasons? To understand this distinction, Rabbi Yeshaya Greenberg ZT"L explains that Na'aseh V'Nishma was based on our trust relationship with Hashem (ה׳). Like a patient trusting a doctor's prescription without understanding the medical science behind it, we trust that Hashem loves us and has our best interests at heart. Whatever He commands us must be for our own good, even if we don't understand the reasons. This trust-based commitment makes sense within the framework of a loving relationship.
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Parshas Parah
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