Rabbi Explains Torah's View on Change: 'Very Close' Means Internal Effort

Rabbi David Leibl offers a new interpretation of the Torah's assertion that change and repentance are "very close" and "not far off," despite the inherent difficulty humans face in altering their ways. He argues that the verse (Deuteronomy 30:11-14) does not imply that repentance is easy, but rather directs individuals to the correct internal source from which change can emerge.

Leibl challenges the common perception that significant change requires external miracles or profound, externally derived insights. He contends that the Torah's phrases "not in the heavens" and "not beyond the sea" signify that divine intervention or a complete worldview shift are unnecessary for spiritual correction. Instead, the Torah emphasizes that the path to change lies within the individual's own heart and inherent goodness.

The rabbi explains that the verse "for the commandment is very near to you, in your mouth and in your heart, to do it" points to the individual's inner self as the accessible starting point for transformation. While not necessarily easy, this internal work is readily available. The Torah suggests that every person is capable of change by reconnecting with their innate good nature, without needing external enlightenment or revolutionary insights.

Furthermore, Leibl addresses the phrase "to hear it and to do it," suggesting that "hearing" in this context means internal understanding rather than external instruction. He also interprets the order "in your mouth and in your heart" as a deliberate emphasis on the practical step of verbalizing one's need for change. This outward confession, he posits, can lead to genuine remorse and a commitment to future action, thereby initiating the internal awakening of the heart and reconnection with one's inner good, ultimately guiding the person back to God.