Parshat Nitzavim-Vayelech, belated

You can read the basics of Nitzavim here, and the basics of Vayelech here.

Just two comments and a story:

First, I'm getting rather tired of Moshe's/Moses constant complaints about this alleged kingdom of priests and holy people being a nation of backsliding sinners, though I suppose that's appropriate for this time of year.

Second, what's all the song and dance about why Moshe died when he did? Why can't we just accept the notion that he died of old age? If Moshe himself can admit that he's too old to get around very well anymore (see Deuteronomy, chapter 31:2), why can't we?

(My husband's less in-your-face take on Moshe's death was that the Jewish People had to grow up and learn to assume responsibility for our own actions, rather than expecting "Daddy" to intercede with HaShem on our behalf. Not a bad drash for the Shabbos before Rosh HaShanah.)

And now, for the story: The rabbis really gave G-d a run for His money with Deuteronomy 30:12, as you can see in the Talmudic tale of the oven of Achnai.

Shanah Tovah u-M'tukah, a Good and Sweet Year to all. May you be blessed with health and happiness.