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Why does the Torah (תורה) use the conditional word 'if' when describing the obligatory Omer offering? The shiur develops the principle that even commanded mitzvos must be performed with volunteer-like enthusiasm. This insight guides Jewish parenting: external motivation through rewards is valid because sustained mitzvah (מצוה) performance naturally leads to genuine joy and internalization.
Rabbi Zweig begins by examining a peculiar aspect of the Minchas Omer (Omer offering) in Parshas Emor. The Torah (תורה) states 'v'im tachrid minchas bikurim' - 'and if you bring the meal offering of first fruits' - using the conditional word 'im' (if) despite this being a communal obligation. Rashi (רש"י) explains that here 'im' means 'you must,' but this raises a fundamental question: why would the Torah use confusing language when it could simply state the obligation directly? The answer reveals a profound psychological insight: the Torah deliberately uses 'if' to teach that even obligatory mitzvos must be performed with the enthusiasm of a volunteer. We must do mitzvos not merely because we're commanded, but as if we genuinely want to do them. This addresses the Talmudic principle that it's greater to perform mitzvos when commanded than when volunteering - but only when the commanded person maintains the same enthusiasm as a volunteer.
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Parshas Emor, Vayikra 23:10
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