Eretz Yisroel and the Torah: Two that are One
Our Rabbis expounded: "why is Eretz Yisroel called "universe" (teivel)? It is named so for the spice (tavlin) that is found within. And which spice is found within? The Torah is the spice, as it says: "the goyim have no Torah". From there we learn that the Torah is in Eretz Yisroel.
One′s name bears witness to one′s essence. Eretz Yisroel is called "teivel", to teach us that the essence of the Land is the Torah. The Torah is Hashem′s will, and Hashem′s will is naught aside from it. Concerning this our Sages have taught that when Hashem gave the Torah to the Jewish nation, He said to them: "Ana Nafshi Ksovis Yehovis – I have inscribed and given My Soul in Torah.” And I have given it to you!
Therefore, all that cleave to the Torah in Eretz Yisroel, actually cleave to the A-lmighty Himself. And as they were about to enter Eretz Yisroel, Moshe Rabbeinu said to them: "But ye that did cleave unto the L-rd your G-d are alive every one of you this day", may you merit to keep the Torah in Eretz Yisroel, and thereby you will be cleaving to the Shechina (Divine Presence).
The author of the "Aym Habonim Smaicho" writes in his sefer about the connection between Eretz Yisroel and the Torah. "Torah and Eretz Yisroel are two friends that are never separated."
To garner respect for the Torah, one must garner respect for Eretz Yisroel, and vice-versa. If one of them is weakened, G-d forbid, it immediately spreads to the other.
Today, when our loyalty to Eretz Yisroel is being tested, we must raise the issue of honoring Eretz Yisroel to top priority. That will bring the strength to raise the honor of the Torah as well.
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