Rashi explains that Hashem responded to Moshe’s request that he be permitted to see the “good land” by showing him the entire land. Horav Nissan Alpert, z.l., questions this response. Did Moshe merely want to “see” Eretz Yisrael? The Talmud in Sotah 14A states that Moshe’s yearning for Eretz Yisrael originated from a deep longing to perform the specific mitzvos which are applicable only in Eretz Yisrael. Why, then, did Moshe want to “see” the land, and what was Hashem’s response?
Horav Alpert explains that Moshe cherished Eretz Yisrael for its holiness. He sought the opportunity to imbue Klal Yisrael with his unique love for the land. He sought entry into Eretz Yisrael specifically for this reason. Moshe Rabbeinu, the quintessential leader, lived for his people. His primary goal was to impart this orientation to them. Moshe specifically requested of Hashem, vrcgt vtrtu tb which is translated as, “Let me go over and see.” This phrase may be interpreted as, “I will enable them to see. I will reveal the sublime sanctity which is the essence of Eretz Yisrael.” Hashem responded that when Bnei Yisrael would see Moshe standing on the mountain, full of yearning for the land, they would, in turn, be inspired with love for Eretz Yisrael. Moshe’s love for Eretz Yisrael focused on the land as a vehicle by which to achieve heightened spiritual awareness.
