This week’s Torah portion is a double reading, and includes Parashat Behar and Parashat Bechukotai. These two portions come from the end of the book of Vayikra, and they focus on trusting God, treating others fairly, and living with faith. The word Behar means “on the mountain,” which refers to Mount Sinai, where God gave Moses the laws of the Sabbatical year, also called Shemittah. Every seventh year, the land of Israel must rest. Farmers are not allowed to plant or harvest their crops as usual. Instead, anyone can come and take what grows naturally. This teaches the people to trust God and remember that the land belongs to Him. After the passing of seven Shmittot over the course of 49 years, the Yovel begins on the 50th. During the Yovel year, slaves are set free, and any previously sold land must be returned to its original family. This ensures that people do not lose their proper lands and shows how families can restart their lives on a clean slate. In addition to detailing the Sabbatical laws, Parashat Behar also teaches the Jewish people about the significance of treating people with kindness and honesty, especially in business. The Torah commands us not to cheat, not to charge interest on loans, and to never take advantage of others.

Parashat Bechukotai begins with a promise. If the people follow God’s laws, He will bless them with peace, good harvests, safety, and happiness in the land of Israel. However, if they choose to turn away from Him, the consequences will be severe. These consequences include famine, fear, war, and even exile. Despite the severity of these warnings, God ends the message of Parashat Bechukotai with hope. He promises the people that even if they must live among their enemies, He will not forget or break His promise to them. God will always remain connected to the people of Israel. At the end of the Parasha, the Torah teaches how to keep promises made to God. It also explains how to give a portion of one’s crops and animals as an act of holiness. This week’s readings remind us that faith is not only about prayer and belief; rather, it is also about our actions. How we treat the land, conduct business, and care for each other all show what it means to live by God’s commandments.