Shavuos 5786 – That time of Year Again

Shavuos is unique as it is the only Yom Tov in the Torah for which we are not told explicitly the date on which the Chag is to be celebrated. We are only informed that it is to be 50 days after the first day of Pesach. In fact, back in the “good old days” when Rosh Chodesh was determined based on witnesses, the exact calendar date could vary depending on whether the months of Nissan and Iyar were 29 or 30 days.

The Torah is equally cryptic in not mentioning any connection between the Chag of Shavuos and the historical event of Matan Torah. It is only Chazal who make this connection. The Chasam Sofer points out that this was a factor in the Tzedukim’s claim that Shavuos was always on a Sunday, and not simply 50 days after Pesach. If Shavuos were meant to commemorate the day the Torah was given, the Torah should have said so.

The Chasam Sofer answers both questions at once based on comments of the Ramban regarding another glaring omission from the Torah: Olam Haba. The Ramban explains that the Torah need not inform us of spiritual reward for mitzvos; that is taken for granted. The Torah does, however, speak at length about the physical rewards for keeping the Torah. So too, the giving of the Torah was such an essential part of Jewish life that it goes without saying. Instead, the Torah stresses the harvest-festival aspect of Chag HaKatzir and the time of bringing the Bikkurim, teaching us that Hashem does not only give us spiritual guidance, but also provides the physical tools to complete our divine mission.

Tax season is upon us, and the usual stress of getting everything together has kicked in. However, before we consider how much we have to give or receive back, we should first take a moment to be thankful for the gifts of Shavuos. Not only did Hashem give us the Torah, the ultimate guide to life, but He also gave us the physical sustenance that enables us to follow that guide in health and happiness.

For any harvest related or other financial issues you require assistance with please reach out at [email protected].

Good Yom Tov & Good Shabbos