The Space Between The Doors

An exploration of balancing self and selflessness as understood in Parashas Ki Tavo

There’s a curious phenomenon that I’ve noticed in nearly every shul which I’ve had the privilege to attend and that is that the front seats are almost always empty. People generally avoid sitting up front. You can walk into what seems like a packed shul, only to find that most of the action is happening in the back, leaving the front empty. It is as if people are hesitant to go too far in. Maybe they prefer to congregate near the doors, ready to dash out at the last “Amen.” Or, to be dan l’kaf zechus, maybe they’re just too embarrassed to daven up front. It makes me wonder if there’s something deeper going on here.

The Midrash in this week’s parashah, Ki Tavo, sheds light on this phenomenon. It praises those who don’t just linger near the entrance of the shul, but also take those extra steps to go all the way inside. Hakadosh Baruch Hu counts your steps, says the Midrash, and rewards you for each one. You’ve made the commitment to be here—so be here, fully present, fully engaged.

אמר הק…