What is Di Zahav?

The book of Devarim opens with a detailed description of the location where Moses gave his final speeches:

"These are the words that Moses spoke to all of Israel on the east bank of the Jordan river ... in the vicinity of Paran, Tofel, Lavan, Chazeroth, and Di Zahav." (Deut. 1:1)

Why do we need to know the precise location of Moses' orations? The Sages explained that these names all contained a special meaning (and veiled rebuke) for those listening to Moses. 'Di Zahav', for example, was a reminder of the sin of the Golden Calf (zahav means gold). According to one opinion, however, the name Di Zahav also indicated a justification for the behavior of the Jewish people:

"What is 'Di Zahav'? This is what Moses told God: Master of the World! It is because of all the silver and gold that You showered upon the Jews — until they said, Di! [Enough!] — that caused them to make the golden calf." (Berachot 32)

Do you know anyone who had enough money, and refused to accept more?

The Human Drive For More

The basis of serving God is our natural, inner drive to continually grow and improve. The goal of life is to be close to God, Whose perfection is boundless. Thus, we must continually perfect ourselves in order to draw near to God. Of course, this aspiration can never be fully achieved. One is never able to say, 'Enough! I have achieved everything'. Each accomplishment makes us aware of even greater challenges and goals.

In order to lead us on this path of continual improvement, God implanted within the human soul the incessant drive to always seek for more. "The soul will never be filled" (Ecclesiastes 6:7). This drive also compels us with regard to material acquisitions. "One who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver." (ibid 5:9) Our inner drive for more is an indication that we only attain our true goals through continual spiritual growth.

Artificially Suppressed

When the Israelites were in the wilderness, all of their physical needs were miraculously taken care of. They drew water from the well of Miriam, manna rained down from the sky, and their clothes never wore out. In this situation, they had little to gain by seeking more possessions and wealth. Just more to carry, perhaps. The soul's natural drive was artificially suppressed, so that when the Israelites were showered with more silver and gold than they could ever need, they said, Enough!

This was Moses' defense for the Jewish people. Why did they make the Golden Calf? Since their natural desire to continually improve had been weakened, the Israelites sought a more easily attainable spiritual goal. They wanted a spiritual destination within reach. This led to the sin of the Golden Calf, since the root of idolatry is the psychological desire to cleave to a tangible and finite object. This form of service suited a people with limited drives and aspirations.

(adapted from Ein Eyah vol. I, pp. 140-1)

Copyright © 2006 by Chanan Morrison