The Torah describes Shavuot as the day in which Bikkurim were brought to Yerushalayim. What is the significance of Bikkurim nowadays, especially when there remains no obligation to offer Bikkurim in modern times? The Toldot Yaakov Yosef suggests several lessons that can be derived from Bikkurim.
1) He writes that just as the first fruit are offered as Bikkurim to Hashem, so too one must ensure that the youth – those at the beginning of their religious journey – are focused on Kedusha. One can add that the Mishna in Bikkurim (2:4) notes how Bikkurim attain their unique status already when they are attached to the ground, very early on in their growth process.
2) The Toldot Yakov Yosef notes the Mishna’s (Bikkuim 3:10) statement that one also offers Tosefet Bikkruim, additional fruits brought together as Bikkurim. He explains that this expresses the need to build from the foundation of one’s youth, and aim to continue growing throughout life.
On the Chag of Matan Torah, we focus on the critical importance of educating our children. A need to also grow oneself – not only to support one’s children but to ensure constant growth throughout life.
Have a wonderful Yom-Tov. Rabbi Alon and Daniella
