Parshas Re’eh: Seeing Clearly

“See—I place before you today blessing and curse.” (Devarim 11:26)

 Moshe opens this week’s parsha with one powerful word: “Re’eh”—”See.” Moshe doesn’t begin by saying listen or understand. He says, see.

Summer has a way of shifting our focus. With August here and Elul approaching, it’s worth asking: Can we actually see where we are — have we noticed what we have, right in front of us, are we perceiving it? 

Before we get to the challenge of choosing what is right, we are being instructed to pause—and notice what is already there.

We Choose What We Notice

The Kli Yakar notes that “Re’eh” is singular. While Moshe speaks to everyone, the choice of perspective belongs to each one of us individually.

The Torah continues on to speak of blessing and curse, but it begins with a choice of perspective:

Re’eh. See.

Where we direct our attention shapes our experience to live differently. Not because our circumstances changed, but because our vision did. 

As we enter Shabbos Mevorchim Elul, we begin preparing for a season of deeper reflection and growth. Perhaps that preparation starts with a single word: Re’eh—see. May Hashem help us open our eyes to the blessings that surround us, recognize His presence in our everyday lives, and choose a perspective that brings us closer to Him. Wishing you and your family a meaningful Shabbos and a Chodesh Elul filled with clarity, gratitude, and blessing.

Reader’s Reflection

Each week, we’ll explore a question inspired by the parsha. Take a moment to reflect—and share your thoughts, insights, and experiences with our community. 

As Elul approaches, what is one area of life that we can potentially see more clearly?