The Prophet

Between Parshat Re'eh and Parshat Shoftim, we learn the basics of how to deal with a prophet.

In Parshat Re'eh (Devarim 12), we learn of the prophet of avodah zarah: Hashem sometimes gives false prophets the ability to bring a sign or a wonder in order to test our love of Hashem. Do not fear these false prophets.

In Parshat Shoftim (Devarim 18), we learn of the prophet of Hashem: Hashem will only give a prophet that speaks in the name of Hashem the ability to bring a sign or a wonder if he is a real prophet.

To summarize:

False Prophet

• If they bring a sign or a wonder to pass, don't listen to them.
• If they don't bring a sign or a wonder to pass, don't listen to them.

True Prophet

• If they bring a sign or a wonder to pass, listen to them.
• If they don't bring a sign or a wonder to pass, don't listen to them.

All of Am Yisrael received prophecy at Har Sinai. That is the implication of what is written in Devarim 18:16-18.

The prophet is our connection to that level of revelation. May that connection soon return.