In the Talmud Avodah Zarah 62a, Chazal infer that we may eat that which grows during the Shemittah year. The produce, however, may not be bought and sold commercially. Chazal expound upon the stringency of the command prohibiting any form of commerce with the fruits of shviis, the seventh year. What is so unique about this prohibition is that there seems to be such an anathema about it? Indeed, Chazal teach us that one who buys or sells peiros sheviis will ultimately lose all of his possessions. He will be compelled to beg for his sustenance, to the point that he will sell himself to a pagan as a slave in order to support himself!
Horav Avigdor Halevi Nebenzthal, Shlita, offers three insights which shed light upon this enigma. First, the admonishment that the soil “rest” during the seventh year is similar to the idea of Shabbos. We are enjoined to rest on the seventh day. The observance of Shabbos and Shemittah attests to Hashem’s role as Creator of the world. We rest because we believe Hashem “rested” from the six days of Creation. One who does not rest on the seventh day, by default, denies that Hashem “created” on the fist six days. This is a concept that leaves no room for discussion. Consequently, the Shemittah mitzvah is one that affirms our belief in the very foundation of our faith.
Second, Shemittah reinforces the belief that Eretz Yisrael is sacrosanct. What Shabbos asserts in terms of time, Shemittah asserts concerning Eretz Yisrael. It proclaims its sanctity and uniqueness. Thus, the punishment for non-observance of the Shemittah laws is exile from the Land. When a guest misinterprets his position, when he begins to think and act like the owner, he is asked to leave. This sanction demonstrates to all as to who is the real owner and master of the land.
A third idea offers a realistic insight into human nature. During Shemittah, for one entire year, the rich man becomes like everyone else. No longer does he have his enormous estate that is roped off from the public. All property owners are equal during Shemittah. What a remarkable opportunity to learn how the other half lives. What a wonderful chance to feel the deprivation of the poor man, to experience his helplessness as everyone walks through his field taking whatever he wants. Shemittah is an educational experience that infuses us with sensitivity and compassion towards our fellow man. Shemittah is more than a mitzvah; it is a testimonial to the Creator which signifies the holiness of Eretz Yisrael, while it imbues us with compassion for our fellow man.
