The word nitzavim – that gives its name to the first of this week’s double-sidrah – means to stand firm and tall. It is connected to the word n’tziv, a pillar or support, as used to describe the pillar of salt which Lot’s wife turns into in Genesis chapter 19.
Just as you cannot translate a sentence word by word without phrases or context, when analysing Torah verses we have to look at phrases together and in context.
“Atem nitzavim…. kulchem” appears together in the same sentence. In other words, “you are standing firm” by virtue of your standing “together”. Cause and effect.
What is it that causes you to stand firm and tall, to be a pillar of support and of solidarity? Your togetherness, your unity. Without that, you will not have that strength.
