Wholehearted, complete: The Torah demands of every person, “Tamim tihiyeh im Hashem Elokecha,” (Devarim 18:13). Rashi (ibid.) explains that one should not inquire about the future, rather accept all that happens with equanimity. In ancient times divinations, witchcraft and omens were common methods of foretelling the future. Yet, the concept is just as relevant today. Let us see how this mitzvah is applicable and significant.

Rav Egbi, in Chochmat HaMatzpun, notes that this injunction addresses basic human nature. People are naturally anxious and worried about the future. We all want to know what will be tomorrow, next month or next year. We are concerned with the future and how we will be affected. But there is another part of us that is untroubled, carefree and carries on without thought. The challenge is to use each of these polar opposites in attitude at the right time. People tend to be placid, complacent and without worry when it comes to chodesh Elul and the upcoming Yom Hadin. However, this is the appropriate time for our worry and uneasiness to dominate.

Now is the fitting time to become proactive in self-improvement, knowing that our destiny is hanging in the balance and dependent on our resolutions. One’s ability to “walk wholeheartedly” with Hashem reflects an advanced level of bitachon, notes the Maharal, in Netivot Olam. It is the realization that we have only that which Hashem generously grants us. The Baal Haturim finds this exalted level hinted at in the large letter taf in the word “tamim,” symbolizing that living with this authentic perspective is akin to keeping the entire Torah from alef to taf.

Rav Gamliel Rabinowitz, in Tiv HaTorah, exhorts us to turn to Hashem, asking Him for success in all our endeavors. Although we are obligated to invest personal effort (one should get medical advice from a professional, business advice from a financial expert) we must realize that the ultimate outcome of everything that happens is up to Hashem. All our efforts are simply the medium by which we open ourselves to receive blessings from Above. Every morning, when saying the bracha, “… hameichin mitzadei gaver,” notes Laboker Rina, we should be mindful that Hashem is the One Who orchestrates the events of our day and leads us with direct divine intervention. Internalizing this message enables us to live with temimut.

Another aspect of this mitzvah is our overview of mitzvah performance, explains the Netivot Shalom. The way we do a mitzvah should reflect our desire to fulfill the divine ratzon, without involving any personal agendas or design. The ultimate service of God embodies this simplicity of spirit and ought to permeate all our actions.

Shira Smiles, a lecturer, author and curriculum developer, is a member of the Mizrachi Speakers Bureau (www.mizrachi.org/speakers).