דברים, פרק ח׳, פסוק י״ג

Economic abundance and material success unfold as a natural, gradual process that comes from settling the land [ביאור שטיינזלץ]. The initial blessing appears in the livestock. Oxen provide the physical strength necessary to cultivate and increase agricultural produce, while flocks directly enrich their owner [העמק דבר]. There is practical advice embedded in the transition from owning livestock to acquiring precious metals. A person seeking wealth would be wise to focus on raising small animals like sheep and goats [קיצור בעל הטורים].

A strict moral condition accompanies this agricultural success. If a person allows their animals to graze in the fields of others, effectively stealing their property, their own assets are destined to eventually collapse [קיצור בעל הטורים]. When managed honestly, the process advances to the next stage of financial wealth, marked by the accumulation of silver and gold. This financial gain does not appear out of nowhere; it comes directly from selling the produce and wool generated during the initial agricultural phase [העמק דבר].

Ultimately, the blessing expands to cover every aspect of life. This complete abundance includes a wide array of assets, such as grain, wine, oil, and children [ביאור יש״ר]. However, this ultimate prosperity carries a hidden risk. As a person's possessions multiply, so do their worldly pleasures, creating a real danger that their heart may become seduced and led astray [העמק דבר].