According to Rashi (1:2) the second verse of Parshat Vayikra
refers to a “voluntary offering” (Korban Nedava). The Steipler Gaon, Rav Yaakov
Kanievsky explores the notion of a voluntary Mitzvah. There are many Mitzvot in
the Torah that are either completely or totally optional. Although everyone was
obligated to bring a half-shekel for the Mishkan, all donations above that
level were optional. Becoming a Nazir, with its associated restrictions and
commandments, is completely optional.
Rav Kanievsky asks an intriguing question: What’s the point
of voluntary Mitzvot? If these actions are necessary and integral to our
service to G-d, then they should not be optional. And if they are not necessary
for us as Jews, then why should anyone do them?
The Steipler explains that optional Mitzvot are an important
way to develop our love of G-d, and of our Judaism. The purpose of optional
Mitzvot is to give people choices and opportunities to excel in one area of
religious life. Some will excel in Torah learning. Others will excel in
Tzedakah. Still other will excel in their interpersonal relationships. It is impossible
to obligate this type of connection to Mitzvot. It must be developed on each
person’s own terms and at their own pace. “Optional mitzvot” exist as an outlet.
The Steipler then quotes one of my favorite statements from
Rav Moshe Chaim Luzzato: Just as an inward feeling can develop and inspire one
to act, so too can outward actions lead to the development of that feeling. Going
above and beyond what we are required to do is not only for those people who
already love G-d and Judaism-. Rather it is also a means of developing that
inner feeling.
As I told my students this week in Parsha class, most people
assume that a person gives charity as a result of feeling generous. What Rav
Luzzato reminds us is that in addition to working “inside out” we can also work
“outside in.” In other words, not only ca you give out of a feeling of
generosity, but it is also praiseworthy to give in order to create/ nurture
your inward feelings of generosity. The shoe company NIKE said it best: Just Do
It.
Real love and commitment is nurtured and demonstrated by doing things we
have to do as well as things that are voluntary. This is a crucial,
though often overlooked ingredient in successful relationships- with our
spouses, our children, our friends, and Hashem.
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