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What does it mean for the omnipresent Hashem (ה׳) to 'set His face against' someone and focus exclusively on them? The shiur develops a yesod that divine 'panai' refers to the quality of relationship, not capability. Hashem's ultimate punishment isn't abandonment but rather turning His direct personal attention into an instrument of complete severance.
This shiur analyzes a fundamental verse from Parshas Kedoshim regarding one who serves Molech: 'V'ani etenes panai ba'ish hahu v'hikhrati oso mikerev amo' - 'I will set My face against that person and cut him off from his people.' Rabbi Yeshaya Greenberg ZT"L examines the dispute between Targum and Rashi (רש"י) regarding the meaning of 'panai' (My face). While Targum translates it as anger expressed through facial expression, Rashi explains it as divine focus - Hashem (ה׳) turning away from all other involvements to deal exclusively with this person. The shiur addresses a fundamental question: Unlike humans who have limited attention and must choose where to focus, Hashem has no such limitations. He can simultaneously manage all aspects of creation while focusing completely on any individual matter. What then does it mean for Hashem to 'turn away from all His involvements' to focus on one person?
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Parshas Kedoshim, Vayikra 20:3
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