This week’s Parsha, Chukas, opens with the words “Zos Chukas HaTorah” — “This is the statute of the Torah.” The term Chukah refers to a category of mitzvot that transcend rational explanation. Unlike Mishpatim (civil laws), which make logical sense, or Eidus (testimonial laws), which commemorate pivotal spiritual events (like Shabbat and Passover), Chukim require a deeper kind of commitment. They call upon us to serve and connect with G-d not because we understand, but because our connection runs deeper than understanding. It’s etched — engraved — into our very soul.
In this light, Chukas gives expression to the deepest level of our relationship with Hashem. While logic and memory are significant, they are ultimately surface-level. The essence of a Jew’s bond with G-d transcends explanation. It is unshakeable and eternal — engraved rather than written.
The same is true in our relationships with each other, especially in marriage. At its entry level, love is often built on reason: mutual attraction, shared goals, common values — the Mishpatim of marriage. But the moment we stand under the chuppah, we do so in the presence of eidim — witnesses — because a marriage is not only a logical partnership; it’s a cosmic event, a spiritual unification, a sacred testimony.
But what sustains a marriage through the storms, the misunderstandings, the differences? Chukah. That supra-rational layer of commitment that says: “Even when I don’t understand you, I will still show up. I will still care. I will still be present, supportive, and safe.” It’s the soul-level connection — Zos Chukas HaTorah — this is the essence of Torah, and of a true marriage.
This week, I traveled to Los Angeles for my niece’s wedding. The joy of witnessing two souls unite under the chuppah brought these ideas to life. The next day, Ahuva and I took a walk along Venice Beach. As we strolled the boardwalk, I noticed a large green arrow painted on the path. Inside it, in big letters, it read: “It is not anti-Semitic to say F… Israel.”
I was stunned. Disgusted. Outraged. I found myself wishing I had a can of spray paint handy…
And yet — perspective.
We live in a time when hatred is casually painted onto sidewalks, posted on billboards, and broadcast on social media. But no matter how loud the voices, how venomous the slogans, how bold the defacement — they cannot threaten what is engraved.
Our connection to Israel, like our connection to Hashem and to each other, is not inked onto us. It is carved into the very essence of who we are. It is Chukah — deeper than logic, deeper than emotion, deeper than words. It is eternal.
Ink fades. Paint chips. Posts get deleted. But what is engraved in the soul of a Jew — and in the soul of our people — is forever.
Zos Chukas HaTorah. This is who we are.
Good Shabbos and Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Ruvi New