Shabbat Nahamu
Va’ethanan (Deuteronomy 3:23–7:11)
Hertz: p. 755; Etz Hayim: p. 1005; Stone: p. 958
Summary
First discourse continued:
1. G-d refuses Moses’ request to enter the Promised Land.
2. Repeated warning against idolatry.
3. Moses assigns the first three cities of refuge.
4. Reiteration of the Ten Commandments.
5:19
Second discourse: basis of the Covenant.
5. The Sh’ma. T’fillin and M’zuzah.
6. The lesson of the Exodus. Teaching the children.
7. Intermarriage with the seven idolatrous nations is forbidden.
Hertz: p. 768; Etz Hayim: p. 1021; Stone: p. 970
Maftir: 7:9–11
G-d will keep the Covenant with those who love Him and observe the commandments and will punish His enemies in their lifetime.
Hertz: p. 775; Etz Hayim: p. 1031; Stone: p. 978
Haftarah (Isaiah 40:1–26)
The first of seven haftarot of consolation read from the Shabbat after Tish‘a b’Av until the high holy days. They follow the three haftarot of admonition that preceded Tish‘a b’Av. The Jews have been living in exile in Babylon for 50 years. Isaiah assures the people of a new generation that G-d has forgiven them. Better times are ahead, and Zion will be restored. This Shabbat is named Shabbat Nahamu for the opening words of the haftarah: "Nahamu, nahamu ‘ami." – “Comfort, comfort ye My people.”
Hertz: p. 776; Etz Hayim: p. 1033; Stone: p. 1196
