CLD #742

The Gemara (Talmud) in the Masechet (Tractate) of Moed Kattan describes the laws of Hol Ha’Moed, or the days between the first and last days of Pesah and Sukkot (Yom Tov). On these days there are certain activities one must refrain from doing due to the severity of keeping the days of the holiday different from regular weekdays, since some activities are allowed and some are forbidden. The first page of the Gemara, Moed Kattan 2a, discusses this law with an example of two different fields and if one is allowed to water these fields during Hol Ha’Moed.

The first field that we later learn is permissible to water on Hol Ha’Moed is called Bet HaShelahin and is a field with sits on a mountain (which is slanted). This type of field, as Rashi explains, always needs to be watered because of its location. Also from the Torah and its aramaic translation (written by Onkelus the Convert), the name of this field has a direct connection with the word ‘dry.’ This teaches us that if an individual places him/herself on a mountain, or in a high location compared to everyone else, he/she constantly needs to be watered with spirituality (as Torah is compared to water) because the Torah does not stick to individuals who lack modesty.

 The second field that we later learn is forbidden to water on Hol Ha’Moed is called Bet Ha’Baal and the Torah and its aramiac translation teaches us it has a settled connotation to it. This type of field is not like the previous one, rather this field sits in the valley and does not need to be watered constantly. This teaches us the important characteristic trait of modesty. If an individual always places him/herself downwards in regards to pride, they will be watered with spirituality and the Torah WILL stick to them. They will also be surrounded by great fruits of their actions and positive situations. They are settled with themselves, can succeed, receive rebuke AND GROW.

Be’ezrat Hashem we should realize that living with modesty is a key ingredient in living a Jewish life. 

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