What is Di Zahav?
Deuteronomy opens with a detailed description of the location where Moses delivered his final speeches:
“These are the words that Moses spoke to all of Israel on the east bank of the Jordan River... near Paran, Tofel, Lavan, Chazeroth, and Di Zahav.” (Deut. 1:1)
Why do we need to know the precise location of Moses’ orations? The Sages explained that each of these names held a special meaning — and a veiled rebuke — for those listening. ‘Di Zahav,’ for example, was a reminder of the Sin of the Golden Calf (zahav meaning ‘gold').
According to one opinion, however, the name Di Zahav also indicated a justification for the behavior of the Jewish people:
“What is Di Zahav? This is what Moses told God: ‘Master of the World! It is because of all the silver and gold that You showered upon the Israelites — until they said, Dai! [Enough!] — that is what caused them to make the Golden Calf.'[1] (Berachot 32a)
Do you know anyone who had enough money and refused to accept more?
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