Lawyer Shalom Vesertail Urges Jews to Embrace Aliyah and Reclaim the Land of Israel
In his article, attorney Shalom Vesertail explores the opening of the Book of Deuteronomy, focusing on Moses' call to the Israelites to "come and possess the land." He integrates classical Jewish commentaries and connects this biblical message to the modern imperative of aliyah (immigration to Israel) and settlement of the land. Moses' final speech, delivered at Mount Horeb, emphasizes that while the Israelites cherished the Torah given at Sinai, the primary mission is to fulfill the commandments in the Land of Israel, as God promised to the patriarchs Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Vesertail cites Rabbi Shlomo Ephraim of Luntshitz, who interpreted Moses' words as a rebuke for the people’s reluctance to leave Sinai and settle the land. The article highlights the biblical command to "turn and journey" toward the land, contrasting it with the Israelites’ hesitation and the sin of the spies, which led to prolonged wandering in the desert. Commentators like Rashi, Ramban, and Malbim are referenced to explain the stages and conditions for conquering and settling the land, including the necessity of patience and growth before full settlement.
The article also addresses historical opposition to aliyah, including the "three weeks" prohibition and fears of danger during travel, which Vesertail argues ended over a century ago with the San Remo Conference in 1920 recognizing Jewish rights to the land. He laments the tragic consequences of discouraging aliyah before and during the Holocaust, quoting Issachar Shlomo Teichtal’s remorse over leaders who urged Jews to remain in exile.
Vesertail contrasts opponents of Zionism, such as Rabbi Chaim Elazar Shapira, with visionaries like Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook, who embraced the Balfour Declaration as a divine instrument for redemption. He stresses the importance of modesty for Jews still in exile and calls on the Jewish people to heed Moses’ timeless call to "come and possess the land," now more relevant than ever in the era of ingathering of exiles and state-building. Vesertail concludes by urging Jews worldwide to rise and make aliyah, marking the current generation as blessed to witness the return to Zion and the fulfillment of biblical promises.
