In Judaism, Bikkurim (the commandment of bringing the first fruits to the Temple is deeply tied to the purpose of creation. Sages explain that the universe was created to foster hakaras hatov (gratitude) and human partnership with God, making thankfulness a fundamental reason for the world’s existence.
The Beauty of the Mitzvah
The Procession: Farmers didn’t just drop off fruit; they traveled to Jerusalem in joyous, singing processions accompanied by flute music, with their baskets ornately decorated.
The Seven Species: The commandment applies specifically to the Seven Species of Israel: wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates.
Egalitarian Pride: The Talmud notes that the wealthy brought their fruits in gold or silver baskets, while the poor brought theirs in simple wicker baskets. The priests would return the gold baskets to the rich, but they kept the wicker baskets given by the poor—highlighting that effort and personal investment make a gift precious
The Midrashic Connection: Breshis vs. Bishvil Reishis
The Linguistic Link: The Torah opens with the word B’reishis (“In the beginning”) The first fruits are called reishis (“the first”).
The Creation Purpose: Midrashic teachings (such as Bereishit Rabbah 1:6) explain that the word B’reishis can be read as bishvil reishis—meaning “for the sake of the first,” referring directly to the bringing of Bikkurim.
Why Gratitude Defines the Purpose of Creation
Overcoming Human Arrogance: When a farmer works hard to cultivate the land and produce a harvest, it is natural to feel, “My own power and the might of my own hand have won this wealth for me” (Deuteronomy 8:17).
The Attitude of Gratitude: According to commentaries like the Alshich (on Deuteronomy 26:2) and insights on Bikurim at Berot Batayin, Bikkurim exists to shatter that illusion. It forces humanity to acknowledge that the rain, soil, sun, and life itself are divine gifts.
The Ultimate Goal: The purpose of creation is to bring humanity to the realization that we are partners in God’s world. Expressing profound gratitude for the physical bounty of the Land of Israel (the Seven Species) serves as the ultimate recognition of the Creator.