Prior to entering Eretz Yisrael, the Jews were to assemble at two mountains. Hashem would enumerate twelve specific commandments, and Klal Yisrael would acknowledge the blessings to be provided for those who upheld these mitzvos, and the curses to befall those who spurned them. Six shevatim, tribes, stood on Har Gerizim, the mountain selected for blessing, while six other tribes stood on Har Eival to acknowledge the curses. The commentators explain why these twelve subjects were selected as the vehicles for the public affirmation of blessing and curse. The consensus of opinon is that these are unique commandments that the…
