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Why must mitzvos be performed with simcha to create a true relationship with Hashem (ה׳)? The shiur develops the yesod that Hashem created a system where man earns his existence through mitzvos, making this the ultimate hatava. Since earning our existence is the greatest good, mitzvos performed willingly with joy demonstrate genuine relationship rather than burden.
Hashem (ה׳) created a system where man can do something for Hashem and thus earn his existence. This is accomplished by praising Him and fulfilling his mitzvos. The ikar hatava we have is by earning our existence. The hatava is not money, health or power. Since mitzvos enable man to earn his existence, which is the greatest hatava, they are then performed with simcha. Only when done willingly and with simcha is there a relationship. If it is viewed as a burden that is no relationship and it is not doing a mitzvah (מצוה).
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Up Next in this Series
How could Yitzchok consider giving the blessings to Esav, knowing his poor character? Yitzchok envisioned transitioning from Avrohom's pure religion to a Torah state requiring practical governance skills. He planned to give Esav the political blessings while Yaakov received the spiritual inheritance, creating a complete nation that merges spiritual vision with worldly competence.
Why does the Midrash connect Pharaoh's expulsion of the Jews to the mitzvah of shiluach hakan? The shiur develops a chiddush that Pharaoh's sin wasn't only drowning the children, but the insensitivity of expelling the parents afterward. The deeper analysis reveals that Pharaoh may have valued the Jews greatly and wanted to control them—making his expulsion an act of tremendous cruelty, not liberation.
Why does Moshe respond to the splitting of the sea with shirah rather than praise or thanksgiving? Rashi's use of "al libo" reveals that shirah is an emotional expression—a response of love to love. When Hashem shows personal care, the only adequate response is "I love You too," not mere gratitude or praise, and this principle applies to all relationships.
Why is Yaakov the first Av described as leaving his mark on a place when departing? The shiur develops a Midrash comparing Yaakov to a bride whom Hashem marries, achieving unique spiritual-physical unity that sanctifies the material world itself. Unlike Avrohom who negated physicality and Yitzchok who elevated it, Yaakov integrated heaven and earth through Torah, making all existence reflect divine unity.
