Rashi explains that the number forty is not accurate, since he only receives thirty-nine lashes. Various explanations are offered by the commentators to explain why the Torah chose to write the number forty when — in reality — it should read only thirty-nine. The Divrei Yecheskel offers an explanation which carries within it a profound message. Man must realize that, regardless of one’s level of achievement, it is inconceivable to attain the degree of sublime purity necessary to stand before Hashem. Likewise, whatever our lot in life, it is still not sufficient compensation for that which we “owe” Hashem. Nonetheless,…
