דברים, פרק י׳, פסוק ט״ו

God's relationship with the Israelites is built on a deep, internal desire rather than a technical necessity or a forced decision. While the idea of setting apart a special nation existed from the very creation of the world, it only became a reality with the arrival of the patriarchs [העמק דבר]. God found a unique satisfaction in these early ancestors because they successfully combined practical action in the physical world with a profound love for Him. This ability to act in the physical realm while remaining devoted elevates them even above angels, who are completely attached to God but cannot perform physical deeds [העמק דבר]. Because of these ancestors, God elevated human nature, guiding the people toward the highest level of human perfection, which is becoming as similar to their Creator as possible [ספורנו]. Consequently, God's love for the nation is not based solely on the history of their ancestors. It is a living, continuous bond that brings meaning to every generation. This profound love is the primary reason God gifted the Israelites His commandments, driven by a desire to bring goodness into their lives [בכור שור, ביאור שטיינזלץ].

This divine choice is highly specific. The promise made to the ancestors is fulfilled exclusively through the Israelites, intentionally leaving out other descendants of Abraham and Isaac, such as Ishmael and Esau [הטור הארוך, ביאור יש״ר, אור החיים]. Furthermore, this selection is not an abstract concept reserved for the future. It is a present, living reality. The people standing at that moment experienced firsthand what it meant to be desired and loved by God, accepted completely like a beloved bride exactly as she is [רש״י, אבן עזרא, חזקוני, ברכת אשר]. This reality carries a deeply encouraging message. Because the nation as a whole is chosen, even the efforts of the simplest and most ordinary individual are incredibly precious to God, even if that person feels entirely unworthy of such a close relationship [העמק דבר].

The enduring nature of this relationship is understood in two distinct ways. One perspective views it as an eternal, unbreakable promise. Just as God's choice is evident in the present moment, it will remain permanently with their descendants forever, without any change [רמב״ן, הטור הארוך]. Another approach suggests that this open expression of love is tied directly to the people's spiritual condition. According to this view, God chose them at that specific time because they were spiritually whole and firmly attached to Him. This implies a warning that if they were to act wickedly and abandon His path, they could lose their elevated status and the visible signs of His love, a reality that has unfolded at various points in history [אור החיים, דברי דוד].