A Meal Before God
When Moses’ father-in-law Jethro met the Israelites in the desert, he rejoiced when he heard about the rescue of the Jewish people from Pharaoh’s hand, and he brought offerings to God.
“And Aaron and all the elders of Israel came to share the meal with Moses’ father-in-law before God.” (Ex. 18:12)
The expression “before God” appears out of place here. In what way was this particular feast in God’s presence?
The Talmudic sage Rabbi Avin explained:
“To partake of a meal where a Torah scholar is present is like enjoying the splendor of God’s Divine Presence. After all, did Jethro, Aaron, and the elders of Israel eat before God? They ate before Moses! Rather, this verse teaches us that sharing a meal with a scholar [such as Moses] is like enjoying the splendor of God’s Presence.” (Berachot 64a)
Rabbi Avin’s statement needs to be clarified. What is so wonderful about eating with a Torah scholar? Wouldn’t studying Torah with him be a much greater spiritual experience? And in what way is such a meal similar to “enjoying the splendor of God’s Presence"?
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