5786/2026
Parashat Mishpatim presents a vast compilation of Mitzvot, each one imbued with distinct lessons of profound moral and ethical teachings. Among this array of Commandments lies the particularly intriguing obligation of Aliyah L’Regel, displayed in the Pasuk: “Shalosh Pa’amim BaShanah Yera’eh Kol Zechurecha El Pnei HaAdon Hashem” (Shemot 23:17). This Pasuk mandates the Jews' threefold ascension to the Beit HaMikdash during the Shalosh Regalim. This pilgrimage not only emphasises the physical act of seeing the Temple, but also highlights the inherent and cultivated spiritual qualities developed through this Mitzvah, alongside multiple essential philosophical concepts.
The Gemara in Chagigah presents an aspect of this Halachah that is initially quite difficult to understand. On Daf 2a, the Gemara discusses the qualities required to exempt one from the Aliyah, explaining that a person blind in one eye, is exempt from the Mitzvah of Re’iah. At first, this seems abnormal, as limited vision does not necessarily prevent one from completing the pilgrimage.
Rav Elimelech of Lizhensk elucidates this discrepancy, expressing that there is an additional symbolic level to this Mitzvah. He teaches that the two eyes symbolise a duality: one's ability to recognise the Gadlut, or greatness, of Hashem, and one's own Shiflut, his lowliness. To truly perceive Hashem's Gadlut, one must first understand his Shiflut. A person lacking in the latter category, while physically capable of traveling, is spiritually considered “blind in one eye”; this negative trait deems those bereft of humility incapable of witnessing the glory of Hashem.
The knowledge shared by Rav Elimelech provides valuable wisdom and guidance worth learning from. Through modesty, we can gain the unbelievable ability to understand and appreciate the Gadlut of Hashem. May we all be Zocheh to learn from this beautiful Torah and merit enhancement in our humility, to develop a connection to Hashem, and to open our eyes.