THERE IS A GEMORAH IN YEVOMOS THAT STATES THAT WHEN MOSHIACH WILL COME
THAT G-D WILL ASK AVROHOM AND YAKOV WHAT TO DO ABOUT THE SINNERS AMONGST THEIR CHILDREN. THEY WILL BOTH RESPOND THAT LAT THEM BE ERASED FOR THE SAKE OF YOUR HOLY NAME!
TO WHICH G-D WILL RESPOND THAT NEITHER THE SAGE OR THE YOUTH COMPREHEND THE ISSUE. YITZCHOK WILL THEN COME ALONG AND TAKE AN ACCOUNTING OF ALL OF THE YEARS OF MEN. HE WILL DETERMINE THAT THE SUM TOTAL OF A SINNER'S ENTIRE LIFE TO BE INSIGNIFICANT WITH THE NUMBER OF YEARS THAT A PERSON LIVES.
IN THAT CASE SAYS YITZCHOK TO G-D , LET US BOTH HANDLE THE SINNING DAYS OF THESE UNFORTUNATES SO THAT THEY MAY RECEIVE THE WORLD TO COME.
NOW THIS IS STRANGE FOR WASN'T IT AVROHOM WHO PRAYED ON BEHALF OF THE SODOMITES? FURTHERMORE , WHAT DIFFERENCE DOES IT MAKE HOW MUCH TIME A PERSON SINS, WHAT COUNTS ARE THE QUALITIES OF THOSE SINS AT THE RAMBAM WRITES AT THE BEGINNING OF THE LAWS OF TESHUVAH-IT'S NOT THE QUANTITY BUT THE VALUE OF EACH MITZVAH AND SIN?
SO , IF THAT IS THE CASE WHAT DIFFERENCE IS IT HOW LONG A PERSON COULD POSSIBLY SIN IN HIS /HER LIFETIME?THE ANSWER LIES IN THE PERSPECTIVE OF YITZCHOK. FROM HIS VANTAGE POINT SIN AND MERIT HAVE NO EFFECT UPON G-D.
THE ONLY THING IS THAT FOR MAN TO BE DESERVING OF G-D'S BLESSINGS , HE HAD TO EARN HIS REWARDS. IN THAT CASE A HUMAN BEING IS JUDGED WORTHY OR UNWORTHY BECAUSE HE MUST EARN THE WORLD TO COME. YITZCHOK'S INTERVENTION IS THAT EVERY ONE OF HIS CHILDREN HAS "EARNED" HIS PARADISE THROUGH THE SELF-SCRIFICE OF YITZCHOK . IN OTHER WORDS, YITZCHOK IS SAYING THAT ALL HIS CHILDREN ARE ONLY AN EXTENSION OF HIMSELF.
THE QUESTION IS , WHY IS IT ONLY YITZCHOK THAT CAN SAY THIS ? WHY NOT AVROHOM
OR YAKOV?
THE ANSWER LIES IN THE FACT THAT UNLIKE AVROHOM, YITZCHOK TRIED TO BLESS HIS WICKED SON! WHY DOES YITZCHOK WISH TO BLESS ESAU?THE ANSWER IS BECAUSE YITZCHOK WAS A VISIONARY WHO SAW THE POTENTIAL OF EVERYTHING AND OF EVERYONE.HE SAW ESAU'S AWESOME POTENTIAL. THAT IS WHY HE TYRIED TO BLESS ESAU.SINCE HIS BLESSING WOULD CREATE GREATER SPIRITUAL AWARENESS WITHIN ESAU . THIS HE RECKONED WOULD TRIGGER A CHANGE OF HEARTY WITHIN ESAU.
YAKOV , HOWEVER , WAS THE REALIST. HE SAW THE POTENTIAL AS WELL AS WHAT COULD BE REASONABLY EXPECTED FROM ESAU.
IN OTHER WORDS, YITZCHOK IS THE VISIONARY, THE IDEALIST. YAKOV IS THE PRAGMATIC REALIST.
FOR THIS REASON YITZCHOK COULD SEE THE GOOD EVEN WITHIN THE SINNERS. WHEREAS , YAKOV SAW WHAT COULD BE EXPECTED. FROM ESAU= VERY LITTLE!
THAT IS WHY YAKOV HAD NO COMPUNCTION ABOUT TAKING THE BLESSINGS FROM ESAU. FOR ESAU WOULD CARE LITTLE ABOUT THE SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS. ALL HE WANTED WAS TO BE MATERIALLY SUCCESSFUL. IF THE BLESSINGS COULD WORK
AND CHANGE ESAU, YAKOV WAS ALL FOR THAT. HOWEVER, THE REALITY WASN'T THAT.
IN THE SAME VEIN YITZCHOK SEES THE POTENTIAL OF EVERYONE OF ISRAEL TO HAVE SELF-SACRIFICE FOR THE SAKE OF G-D. THAT IS WHY HE STANDS UP FOR ALL OF US. YAKOV ON THE OTHER HAND CANNOT SEE HOW A LONG-TIME SINNER WOULD HAVE ANY SELF-SACRIFICE.
IN THIS YAKOV SHORTCHANGED HIS CHILDREN. YES, WE HAVE SINNED.
HOWEVER, AT ANY MOMENT EVERYONE OF US IS READY TO SACRIFICE ONESELF FOR THE GOOD OF G-D, ISRAEL AND THE TORAH!
WHY CAN YITZCHOK SEE FARTHER THAN YAKOV? STAY TUNED!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Friday, November 2, 2007
Abraham the father of the east
Our father Avraham had 7 (or8) other children outside of Yitzchak .In fact the Torah says that Avraham got married once again and fathered another 6 sons. Each of the sons started another
nation. The question is Avrohom was 137 years old then ,what was the purpose of getting married again.
At that age Yitzchak doesn't remarry. Neither does Yakov. Why Avrohom?
Avrohom by nature was different from his offspring. Avrohom felt that he could and therefore should endeavor to influence the world. He saw however, that men like E-liezer, as well meaning as they might be lacked the courage and conviction to influence others.
Therefore the motive for Avrohom's remarriage wasn't to be taken care of. For that he trusted that Yitchak or even Yishmoel would respect their father.It was in order to change the idolatrous practices of the peoples of the near east that Avrohom was worried about.
This seems to also be the secret as to why Avrohom sent his sons away to the East . He gave them gifts. What kind of gifts did he give them? Rashi says a Shem Tumah!?
Now if this means that he gave them the power of impurity,how could a man that had battled impurity all of his life give them this impure power to use and succeed with?
The answer is simple ;He gave them the power to overcome the evil ways of the peoples of the east. In this way Avrohom made the world a better place, one that in the future would embrace the true unity of G-D!
nation. The question is Avrohom was 137 years old then ,what was the purpose of getting married again.
At that age Yitzchak doesn't remarry. Neither does Yakov. Why Avrohom?
Avrohom by nature was different from his offspring. Avrohom felt that he could and therefore should endeavor to influence the world. He saw however, that men like E-liezer, as well meaning as they might be lacked the courage and conviction to influence others.
Therefore the motive for Avrohom's remarriage wasn't to be taken care of. For that he trusted that Yitchak or even Yishmoel would respect their father.It was in order to change the idolatrous practices of the peoples of the near east that Avrohom was worried about.
This seems to also be the secret as to why Avrohom sent his sons away to the East . He gave them gifts. What kind of gifts did he give them? Rashi says a Shem Tumah!?
Now if this means that he gave them the power of impurity,how could a man that had battled impurity all of his life give them this impure power to use and succeed with?
The answer is simple ;He gave them the power to overcome the evil ways of the peoples of the east. In this way Avrohom made the world a better place, one that in the future would embrace the true unity of G-D!
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Camels anyone?
Oftentimes a Rabbi is asked a question that the disputant knows is outside the Rabbi's expertise. I had a friend who liked testing my faith, so on occasions he would mail me anti-Torah articles ,especially from the Biblical Archeology Review.
In one particular issue the writer stated emphatically that the story of Rebbecca at the well had
been authored by someone recalling the story at a later time. this is called an anachronism.
The reason is that according to Biblical Archaeology there had been no records of transaction of camels at the time of Abraham. Hence the Biblical writer imputed the details based upon his imagination.
Of course , for a believing Jew this approach of an anonymous author is not acceptable. However, what could a Rabbi unversed in archaeology say? I don't know, perhaps later there will be other discoveries!
Amongst my favorite writers is Philip Biberfeld , author of the series, Universal Jewish History.
In his writings about the ancient world , almost as an aside he tells us that in the excavations of the ancient city called Ugarit, they discovered tablets recording sales of various items including camels!This city was contemporaneous with Abraham.
The fact that only one of the great cities of that period had camels to sell actually teach us a marvelous insight into the story.
Up until this question the whole issue of having to send 10 camels to bring back the bride seems unnecessary.After all Abraham himself used a donkey.
However, when the Torah tells us that Abraham sent Eliezer with all the good of his master with him,it means that Abraham had given a deed of all of his possessions to Yitzchak on the condition that he marry the girl that Abraham wanted. This was given in order to show the prospective parents that Yitzchak would be exceptionally wealthy and the girl well cared for.
Now,even if he sent such a deed how would the family truly believe that this was a glick match-made in heaven? After all Abraham lived many miles away and no one in Haran had seen him for years. How would they know that Abraham was telling the truth about his wealth?
Camels-they were exceedingly rare ,remember? Only the real wealthy could afford one camel.
In that case, appearing at the well with 10 camels would have made the same splash as appearing with 10 stretch limos!
No wonder Lavan,Rebbecca"s brother, came running to see the man!Understood now, is the agreement to immediately send Rebbecca to a strange land after a brief meeting with Abraham's chief of staff.
It was the camels who sealed the deal!The question opens up a new dimension of insight!
In one particular issue the writer stated emphatically that the story of Rebbecca at the well had
been authored by someone recalling the story at a later time. this is called an anachronism.
The reason is that according to Biblical Archaeology there had been no records of transaction of camels at the time of Abraham. Hence the Biblical writer imputed the details based upon his imagination.
Of course , for a believing Jew this approach of an anonymous author is not acceptable. However, what could a Rabbi unversed in archaeology say? I don't know, perhaps later there will be other discoveries!
Amongst my favorite writers is Philip Biberfeld , author of the series, Universal Jewish History.
In his writings about the ancient world , almost as an aside he tells us that in the excavations of the ancient city called Ugarit, they discovered tablets recording sales of various items including camels!This city was contemporaneous with Abraham.
The fact that only one of the great cities of that period had camels to sell actually teach us a marvelous insight into the story.
Up until this question the whole issue of having to send 10 camels to bring back the bride seems unnecessary.After all Abraham himself used a donkey.
However, when the Torah tells us that Abraham sent Eliezer with all the good of his master with him,it means that Abraham had given a deed of all of his possessions to Yitzchak on the condition that he marry the girl that Abraham wanted. This was given in order to show the prospective parents that Yitzchak would be exceptionally wealthy and the girl well cared for.
Now,even if he sent such a deed how would the family truly believe that this was a glick match-made in heaven? After all Abraham lived many miles away and no one in Haran had seen him for years. How would they know that Abraham was telling the truth about his wealth?
Camels-they were exceedingly rare ,remember? Only the real wealthy could afford one camel.
In that case, appearing at the well with 10 camels would have made the same splash as appearing with 10 stretch limos!
No wonder Lavan,Rebbecca"s brother, came running to see the man!Understood now, is the agreement to immediately send Rebbecca to a strange land after a brief meeting with Abraham's chief of staff.
It was the camels who sealed the deal!The question opens up a new dimension of insight!
Monday, October 29, 2007
Titled Property
The only titled properties whose ownership was declared by the Torah to be in the legal possession of Israel even before the conquest by Yehoshua are Hebron And Shechem, called Nablus by Arabs.
These properties are the focus of attention this week again as secular Israeli authorities deny Jews the rights to their ancient homes.
What can we learn from a sale that took place about 3700 years ago?
While the deniers will turn a blind eye they can never succeed . In the end,just as the land has returned in large part to the Children of Israel despite the world's best efforts to deny our access to it. So too, the Holy Places will never be permanently in the hands of our enemies. For G-D's word is eternal.
The only thing is that when Jews give over Sacred Lands to Arabs, they frustrate the angels who clamor for all Jews' return to Israel. They are told ,see even they don't want this Divine Gift,so give it to others who appreciate it!
The gentiles know the score. The return of Israel to their Holy Places puts to lie their claims as having supplanted Israel. This foolishness plays into their evil hands.
These properties are the focus of attention this week again as secular Israeli authorities deny Jews the rights to their ancient homes.
What can we learn from a sale that took place about 3700 years ago?
While the deniers will turn a blind eye they can never succeed . In the end,just as the land has returned in large part to the Children of Israel despite the world's best efforts to deny our access to it. So too, the Holy Places will never be permanently in the hands of our enemies. For G-D's word is eternal.
The only thing is that when Jews give over Sacred Lands to Arabs, they frustrate the angels who clamor for all Jews' return to Israel. They are told ,see even they don't want this Divine Gift,so give it to others who appreciate it!
The gentiles know the score. The return of Israel to their Holy Places puts to lie their claims as having supplanted Israel. This foolishness plays into their evil hands.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Killing children
There are special prohibitions against the elements of idolatry which hint at excessive cruelty.
they include cooking meat with milk and the Moloch initiation of passing the child through fire. In each case there is no overt cruelty, just the hint that the worshiper is ready to cook the child even in its' mother's milk for the Glory of his G-D. The same is true of the Moloch which indicates the readiness to put one's children to the fire if necessary for the greater glory of the g-ds.
In that case why is there so much stress given upon the test of the binding and potential sacrifice of Isaac, which promotes cruelty? Why make this the centerpiece of Jewish pride and merit?
the answer lies not in the deed but in the person Avrohom, who saw the good in everyone and tried to please them so that they should thank G-D. Such a person loves all and loves life and its' blessings.
Avrohom cared for the best and the worst of humanity. That's why he is seen hosting strangers with all the love and the warmth you show your closest kin. Then he challenges G-D on the morality of destroying the first sin-city-Sodom.Through all of his difficult trials,Avrohom remains upbeat ,positive and caring for all.
Such a person cannot express any cruelty nor can he imagine thinking inflicting pain
When a man of this temperment is asked to make a sacrifice of his only son , it isn't just a sacrifice of one's beloved . It's doing something that is anathema to him for any person. How much more so
his only beloved son! There couldn't be a more disgusting and vile act than this for Avrohom.
Yet Avrohom overcomed any feeling of sensitivity in order to fulfill G-D's will. There is no thought of pain or remorse ,there is only the will of G-D as inexplicable as it may be..
This is what made Avrohom's test so unique.
Whenever you go outside your natural inclinations for a higher goal you are acting as Avrohom did then. It's easy to show love to those you like. It's easy to be angry with those who disagree with you.
It's hard to overcome your anger and be kind to your enemy. It's hard to discipline a child you love.
Because it goes against your natural instinct.
That's what makes these acts special. When you say no to your natural tendencies you are like
Avrohom on Molunt Moriah.So the next time you have to bite your tongue - remember Avrohom!
they include cooking meat with milk and the Moloch initiation of passing the child through fire. In each case there is no overt cruelty, just the hint that the worshiper is ready to cook the child even in its' mother's milk for the Glory of his G-D. The same is true of the Moloch which indicates the readiness to put one's children to the fire if necessary for the greater glory of the g-ds.
In that case why is there so much stress given upon the test of the binding and potential sacrifice of Isaac, which promotes cruelty? Why make this the centerpiece of Jewish pride and merit?
the answer lies not in the deed but in the person Avrohom, who saw the good in everyone and tried to please them so that they should thank G-D. Such a person loves all and loves life and its' blessings.
Avrohom cared for the best and the worst of humanity. That's why he is seen hosting strangers with all the love and the warmth you show your closest kin. Then he challenges G-D on the morality of destroying the first sin-city-Sodom.Through all of his difficult trials,Avrohom remains upbeat ,positive and caring for all.
Such a person cannot express any cruelty nor can he imagine thinking inflicting pain
When a man of this temperment is asked to make a sacrifice of his only son , it isn't just a sacrifice of one's beloved . It's doing something that is anathema to him for any person. How much more so
his only beloved son! There couldn't be a more disgusting and vile act than this for Avrohom.
Yet Avrohom overcomed any feeling of sensitivity in order to fulfill G-D's will. There is no thought of pain or remorse ,there is only the will of G-D as inexplicable as it may be..
This is what made Avrohom's test so unique.
Whenever you go outside your natural inclinations for a higher goal you are acting as Avrohom did then. It's easy to show love to those you like. It's easy to be angry with those who disagree with you.
It's hard to overcome your anger and be kind to your enemy. It's hard to discipline a child you love.
Because it goes against your natural instinct.
That's what makes these acts special. When you say no to your natural tendencies you are like
Avrohom on Molunt Moriah.So the next time you have to bite your tongue - remember Avrohom!
Friday, October 19, 2007
dirty money
There is a story about a person wishing to give money to a yeshiva but the Rosh Yeshivah refused saying that he sensed that this was tainted money. It turned out that the potential donor confessed that he had stolen the stipend of the Vilner Gaon who said nothing about his lack of funds.
Since this money was gotten through the pain of another it could not be used for Tzedakkah.
In a similar vein our father Avrohom refused the payment for his fighting for the people of Sodom even though he had previously taken payment from Pharaoh
and later Avimelech for having embarrassed his wife, Sarah.Why take from one king and not a penny from another?
The ultimate answer is that the people of Sodom were unusually cruel and sadistic.
Most of their wealth was gotten through others' misfortune and the King was the worst perpetrator of that sadistic behavior. Accordingly Avrohom felt that the King's money was tainted with the suffering of others and he refused to take any benefit from such wealth.
In fact the wealth of Sodom had to be totally destroyed. For even Lot who was saved
could not take anything of value with him and if he did ,the benefit would doom him with the city.
Perhaps this is one of the many reasons that the Rebbe Z.T.L. refused to have any of his institutions get money through Bingo. Many a paycheck has evaporated at the tables of addicted bingo players. The Rebbe would forgo the benefit if it meant that another human being had suffered in granting that dollar!
Since this money was gotten through the pain of another it could not be used for Tzedakkah.
In a similar vein our father Avrohom refused the payment for his fighting for the people of Sodom even though he had previously taken payment from Pharaoh
and later Avimelech for having embarrassed his wife, Sarah.Why take from one king and not a penny from another?
The ultimate answer is that the people of Sodom were unusually cruel and sadistic.
Most of their wealth was gotten through others' misfortune and the King was the worst perpetrator of that sadistic behavior. Accordingly Avrohom felt that the King's money was tainted with the suffering of others and he refused to take any benefit from such wealth.
In fact the wealth of Sodom had to be totally destroyed. For even Lot who was saved
could not take anything of value with him and if he did ,the benefit would doom him with the city.
Perhaps this is one of the many reasons that the Rebbe Z.T.L. refused to have any of his institutions get money through Bingo. Many a paycheck has evaporated at the tables of addicted bingo players. The Rebbe would forgo the benefit if it meant that another human being had suffered in granting that dollar!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Abie's Choice
The TORAH makes the following point. Lot was a no-goodnik even though he was Avrohom's nephew. His flocks were allowed to roam and eat the growth of subsistence farmers.Upon being rebuked Lot innocently asked,"why the fuss?" After all this land is filled with heathens whom Avrohom will inherit and I an his only heir! Therefore all of their land really belongs to me and i have only stolen from myself!
Avrohom controlled his fury at the insensitivity of his relative. They parted ways amicably.
As soon as Lot was gone G-D speaks once more to Avrohom;"Look around you , this whole land
will be your children's forever!"
The Rabbis comment,why does it say that after Lot separated from Avrohom G-D spoke to Avrohom? In order to underscore that as long as Avrohom had the wicked Lot in his midst , the Divine presence would not be revealed to Avrohom. This was due to the fact that Lot's very presence disturbed Avrohom's happiness and concentration so that Avrohom could not attain prophecy as long as Lot was there!
The simple conclusion seems to be don't harbor any wicked relatives so that you will receive G-D's presence!
I disagree! For we are after all speaking about a choice made by Avrohom who was fully aware that he would not be a vessel for G-D's glory as long as Lot was around. Yet Avrohom chose to have Lot stay even though it meant no prophecy. Therefore one must conclude from Avrohom's choice that it is more important to influence another to moderate his behavior for good things
than to speak to G-D all day!
Avrohom controlled his fury at the insensitivity of his relative. They parted ways amicably.
As soon as Lot was gone G-D speaks once more to Avrohom;"Look around you , this whole land
will be your children's forever!"
The Rabbis comment,why does it say that after Lot separated from Avrohom G-D spoke to Avrohom? In order to underscore that as long as Avrohom had the wicked Lot in his midst , the Divine presence would not be revealed to Avrohom. This was due to the fact that Lot's very presence disturbed Avrohom's happiness and concentration so that Avrohom could not attain prophecy as long as Lot was there!
The simple conclusion seems to be don't harbor any wicked relatives so that you will receive G-D's presence!
I disagree! For we are after all speaking about a choice made by Avrohom who was fully aware that he would not be a vessel for G-D's glory as long as Lot was around. Yet Avrohom chose to have Lot stay even though it meant no prophecy. Therefore one must conclude from Avrohom's choice that it is more important to influence another to moderate his behavior for good things
than to speak to G-D all day!
Monday, October 15, 2007
Go To Yourself!
G-D says to Avrohom "go to you". It's usually translated as go for your own benefit. However the classical mystical writers have it as going to his own soul. That means to say that until Avrohom entered the Promised Land he couldn't really be himself. For his essence is tied to the experiences that he will live through in the Holy Land .
How is it possible that one's very soul can be tied to a particular area? The answer lies in the concept of the Divine Sparks theory of life.
The Arizal postulated that every bit of existence has a Divine Energy enlivening it. Furthermore it is the destiny of each Spark to be elevated by the soul of a righteous person. In fact everyone has as his or her mission the elevation of certain Sparks of Holiness that are waiting for thousands of years to return to their Holy source. In doing so the individual not only fulfills his Divine Mission in coming to the world, he finds himself. For tied to his very essence are the sparks that he must elevate. Failure to do so means the continued exile of one's own soul powers.
So, by going into the Land that G-D had preordained for Avrohom's service, Avrohom was actually coming to himself. That is, finding out his true essence which is tied to the Sparks that he will elevate. For the sparks themselves are at the very core of his own spiritual essence.
We are connected to each other and to our portions of our world not just because we must fix the world-Tikkun Olam. Rather, by correcting the world we correct ourselves. By helping the world we truly learn and find out who we truly are.
How is it possible that one's very soul can be tied to a particular area? The answer lies in the concept of the Divine Sparks theory of life.
The Arizal postulated that every bit of existence has a Divine Energy enlivening it. Furthermore it is the destiny of each Spark to be elevated by the soul of a righteous person. In fact everyone has as his or her mission the elevation of certain Sparks of Holiness that are waiting for thousands of years to return to their Holy source. In doing so the individual not only fulfills his Divine Mission in coming to the world, he finds himself. For tied to his very essence are the sparks that he must elevate. Failure to do so means the continued exile of one's own soul powers.
So, by going into the Land that G-D had preordained for Avrohom's service, Avrohom was actually coming to himself. That is, finding out his true essence which is tied to the Sparks that he will elevate. For the sparks themselves are at the very core of his own spiritual essence.
We are connected to each other and to our portions of our world not just because we must fix the world-Tikkun Olam. Rather, by correcting the world we correct ourselves. By helping the world we truly learn and find out who we truly are.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
When weakness is strength
Avrohom challenged G-D not to destroy Sodom yet Noach feels no compunction as to what will happen to them . Yet after they are gone Noach misses the people . Avrohom on the other hand does everything he can to save them ,yet after they are destroyed to his dismay, he doesn't sulk.
Instead he builds a new Hotel for wayfarers.
Emotion is characterized as weakness by many . In truth emotion properly placed is a strength.
Having a stiff upper lip for the fate of others is a sickness, a character flaw. When toughness is
misused, the result is that the emotion unused to save becomes the slave of regret.
Emotion that is healthy knows when to hold on and when to let go.
Avrohom dared to be vulnerable in order to help someone . Therefore he was strong enough to move on because his conscience was clear. He used his weakness to save humanity.
This turned out to make him strong when he needed the strength to go on.
Noach was tough when he needed to be vulnerable, so he became weak when he needed to be strong!
Instead he builds a new Hotel for wayfarers.
Emotion is characterized as weakness by many . In truth emotion properly placed is a strength.
Having a stiff upper lip for the fate of others is a sickness, a character flaw. When toughness is
misused, the result is that the emotion unused to save becomes the slave of regret.
Emotion that is healthy knows when to hold on and when to let go.
Avrohom dared to be vulnerable in order to help someone . Therefore he was strong enough to move on because his conscience was clear. He used his weakness to save humanity.
This turned out to make him strong when he needed the strength to go on.
Noach was tough when he needed to be vulnerable, so he became weak when he needed to be strong!
Noach an example?
Noach stands out as an enigmatic figure for us all. The Rabbis too, are divided on Noach's example.Some applaud him due to the level of the population of his times.
Others see weakness in his lack of concern over the fate of his generation.
For we find noprayers offered or any argument whatsoever over G-D's decision to do away with the world's populace.
Yet there is a softer side to Noach!
When Noach begins life anew, he plants a vineyard and proceeds to get drunk. Why is Noach drinking? Noach is lonely, he remembers the people, their life,their loves and he finds it hard to forget them . Here Noach is criticized for beginning his planting with a vineyard. He should have started something else.
Why ? You ask. The answer is simple yet profound . The role of a leader after a holocaust is to rebuild for the future and not languish in a past that is gone .
This was the greatness of Jewish leaders like the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe Z.T.L.
who built and tried to build even more right after the terrible destruction of Jewish life
in Europe.
Others see weakness in his lack of concern over the fate of his generation.
For we find noprayers offered or any argument whatsoever over G-D's decision to do away with the world's populace.
Yet there is a softer side to Noach!
When Noach begins life anew, he plants a vineyard and proceeds to get drunk. Why is Noach drinking? Noach is lonely, he remembers the people, their life,their loves and he finds it hard to forget them . Here Noach is criticized for beginning his planting with a vineyard. He should have started something else.
Why ? You ask. The answer is simple yet profound . The role of a leader after a holocaust is to rebuild for the future and not languish in a past that is gone .
This was the greatness of Jewish leaders like the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe Z.T.L.
who built and tried to build even more right after the terrible destruction of Jewish life
in Europe.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
game of gimatria
The Torah tells us that Yehuda's hands shall fight for him and be an assistance against his attackers.
This is strange! Of course a person being attacked will use whatever methods to defeat his enemy.
So why wouldn't Yehuda fight with his hands and why will they only be an Ezer?
The answer lies in gematria . Sometimes a person is confronted by an enemy much bigger than himself. In that case he would invariably lose.
However, a person's merits can change circumstances so that he can overcome a dangerous and sly foe.
The words in the Torah are Yodov Rav lo Ve-Ezer MiTzorove tiHiyeh.
The number equivalent for the word tzorov = 306
the word yodov =his works =30
add this to Ezer =277
together they = 307
thus a person who gives tzerdakah which is meant by his hands receives an ezer a help from above which is Rav Lo -it gives him more than Tzorov his enemy.
Thus by giving Tzedakkah one receives help from above that outweighs the power of one's enemies!
Chaim moshe
P.S. Don't forget to visit us tonite , tomorrow nite At 8:00 P.M.
and Friday 9:30 a.m. for services
2:00 P. M. for our annual simchas Torah BarBQ!
This is strange! Of course a person being attacked will use whatever methods to defeat his enemy.
So why wouldn't Yehuda fight with his hands and why will they only be an Ezer?
The answer lies in gematria . Sometimes a person is confronted by an enemy much bigger than himself. In that case he would invariably lose.
However, a person's merits can change circumstances so that he can overcome a dangerous and sly foe.
The words in the Torah are Yodov Rav lo Ve-Ezer MiTzorove tiHiyeh.
The number equivalent for the word tzorov = 306
the word yodov =his works =30
add this to Ezer =277
together they = 307
thus a person who gives tzerdakah which is meant by his hands receives an ezer a help from above which is Rav Lo -it gives him more than Tzorov his enemy.
Thus by giving Tzedakkah one receives help from above that outweighs the power of one's enemies!
Chaim moshe
P.S. Don't forget to visit us tonite , tomorrow nite At 8:00 P.M.
and Friday 9:30 a.m. for services
2:00 P. M. for our annual simchas Torah BarBQ!
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Setting The Tone
Moshe's blessings begin with Reuven and go to Yehudah. Shimon is skipped altogether while Levi plays second fiddle to both. Even though Levi has a longer Blessing ,there seems to be something out of order here.
What Moshe sees is the need for each tribe to be happy within its own perimeters . When they try to obtain what isn't theirs there becomes chaos and tragedy.
In truth the greatest blessing is reserved for Yehudah who is the father of the Davidic Dynasty, hence the Messiah ,the ultimate Jew, the ultimate human being. Everyone else is the Messiah's
student or underling. However, by doing so there is danger of jealousy and collusion to destroy
the role of the Messiah.
First on the agenda is placating Reuven the first born of Israel. Let Reuven Live and not Die seems redundant until you realize that the basis of the opposition of Dathan and Avirum to Moshe was mostly from their view that the Reuvenites should be the leaders.
Therefore the Blessing is that Reuven live meaning- He shall enjoy his role as one of the Tribes and shall not die through the jealousy that has hounded and prevented his growth until now.
By letting go of fantasies that are unrealistic Reuven will flourish.
The next tribe to deal with is Moshe's own tribe -the Levites. In the future Moshe sees how usurping the role reserves for Yehudah will be tragic for both the Levite Kings and for Israel. The Hasmonean Kings were directly responsible for the Roman takeover and the subsequent destruction of the Second Holy Temple.
Hence Moshe tries to appease them by stressing the importance of the role that the Levites will play as the spiritual guides of the populace. Furthermore by announcing that usurpers of the Service that is designated for Levi will be punished serves as a hint that the same will hold true for the Levites that take over Yehudah's role.
Shimon is altogether not mentioned because by omission Moshe hints that they still have to correct the weakness of Shimon which is jealousy of anothers' good fortune. This will allow an immediate acceptance of Yehudah's primacy by Shimon.
The next tribe-Benjamin had to be placated because of its' unique role as the beloved of G-D. For G-d chooses the area of Benjamin to have the Temple in. For that reason it would appear that the leadership should also be from Benjamin. In fact the first king is Saul of Benjamin .Nonetheless, because Benjamin is not a self starter but a follower of G-D he cannot lead.
Yossef is next . He will be successful beyond belief . The conquest of Israel is his role. However, in order to be a leader of men you must know their sufferings and limitations . His success makes him too critical to lead . The Messiah of Joseph will start the process of redemption . However it is Yehudah that will emerge as the ultimate teacher and leader.
Thus Moshe in his Blessings sets the tone for the future. He tells the people "all of you will have your special role. If you see yourselves as part of the unit of Israel you will be successful beyond your dreams. If, however, you put your own goals before the benefit of the whole people ,you will know heartache.
This is the reason that the Blessings begin with the words "and there was a King for Yeshurun (Israel) only when "Yachad Shivtey Yisroel"-when the tribes are unified for one purpose. That is, the role that G-D has preordained . Yehudah will lead and only then will we all reach our potential!
What Moshe sees is the need for each tribe to be happy within its own perimeters . When they try to obtain what isn't theirs there becomes chaos and tragedy.
In truth the greatest blessing is reserved for Yehudah who is the father of the Davidic Dynasty, hence the Messiah ,the ultimate Jew, the ultimate human being. Everyone else is the Messiah's
student or underling. However, by doing so there is danger of jealousy and collusion to destroy
the role of the Messiah.
First on the agenda is placating Reuven the first born of Israel. Let Reuven Live and not Die seems redundant until you realize that the basis of the opposition of Dathan and Avirum to Moshe was mostly from their view that the Reuvenites should be the leaders.
Therefore the Blessing is that Reuven live meaning- He shall enjoy his role as one of the Tribes and shall not die through the jealousy that has hounded and prevented his growth until now.
By letting go of fantasies that are unrealistic Reuven will flourish.
The next tribe to deal with is Moshe's own tribe -the Levites. In the future Moshe sees how usurping the role reserves for Yehudah will be tragic for both the Levite Kings and for Israel. The Hasmonean Kings were directly responsible for the Roman takeover and the subsequent destruction of the Second Holy Temple.
Hence Moshe tries to appease them by stressing the importance of the role that the Levites will play as the spiritual guides of the populace. Furthermore by announcing that usurpers of the Service that is designated for Levi will be punished serves as a hint that the same will hold true for the Levites that take over Yehudah's role.
Shimon is altogether not mentioned because by omission Moshe hints that they still have to correct the weakness of Shimon which is jealousy of anothers' good fortune. This will allow an immediate acceptance of Yehudah's primacy by Shimon.
The next tribe-Benjamin had to be placated because of its' unique role as the beloved of G-D. For G-d chooses the area of Benjamin to have the Temple in. For that reason it would appear that the leadership should also be from Benjamin. In fact the first king is Saul of Benjamin .Nonetheless, because Benjamin is not a self starter but a follower of G-D he cannot lead.
Yossef is next . He will be successful beyond belief . The conquest of Israel is his role. However, in order to be a leader of men you must know their sufferings and limitations . His success makes him too critical to lead . The Messiah of Joseph will start the process of redemption . However it is Yehudah that will emerge as the ultimate teacher and leader.
Thus Moshe in his Blessings sets the tone for the future. He tells the people "all of you will have your special role. If you see yourselves as part of the unit of Israel you will be successful beyond your dreams. If, however, you put your own goals before the benefit of the whole people ,you will know heartache.
This is the reason that the Blessings begin with the words "and there was a King for Yeshurun (Israel) only when "Yachad Shivtey Yisroel"-when the tribes are unified for one purpose. That is, the role that G-D has preordained . Yehudah will lead and only then will we all reach our potential!
Sunday, September 30, 2007
What's a Berocha?
There's an old joke about a man wanting a Berocha for his new Bentley and goes to the Temple and asks for an appropriate Berocha for his Bentley . To which the young assistant Rabbi asks innocently "what's a Berocha?!"
The truth is that most of us really don't know what a Berocha is. For example what is the reason a man of Moshe's stature can make a Berocha whereas a lesser person can't? After all we all make Berochos in our Prayers-over 100 each day!
So what is so special about Moshe making a Berocha?
Furthermore, what is the difference between a prayer and a Berocha. Furthermore if a Tzaddik can give a person a Berocha why is it that most of us still struggle even after receiving a Berocha from a Tzaddik ?
The answer may surprise you. The term Berocha means a flow from a higher source.
That means to say that the Berocha that a Tzaddik gives a person is commensurate with the flow or potential that the individual has . If your potential is to receive only after struggle that will be the result of the Blessing.
So if the Blessing only actualizes what i have in potential then why the need to receive from a Tzaddik's Blessing?
The answer may surprise you. Sometimes our potential is stuck in the mud and cannot get started. So what happens to our potential ? It remains in the spiritual world ready to reward us for a Blessing unattained in our world. The power of the Tzaddik is to bring it into the real world so that the potential we have should be realized sooner than later.
If that is all then what is so special about the Blessing of Moshe over all other righteous people including his brother Aharon?
Moshe saw the world through the eyes of the Torah . everything in the universe has its' source of existence within the Torah. When Moshe expressed a Blessing it was a Blessing from the Torah source of that Person, Tribe or Nation.In other words, the Blessing of Moshe is a Blessing from the Torah itself!
The difference between a Blessing from the Torah and all souls or angels ?
The Torah identifies the essence of the recipient of the Blessing so that there can be no deviation. Furthermore by invoking the Torah the Blessing must happen and must happen in the easiest possible manner.
In other words, by Blessing the People , Moshe made sure that their potential would be realized and in the easiest possible sequence.
This is the meaning of the insertion of the words Torah Tzivah Lonu Moshe - Moshe commanded us to keep the Torah in the Blessing of Moshe. This tells us the source of Moshe's Berocha- the Torah itself is Blessing us and making us fulfill our untapped powers.
The ability of Moshe to bless actually then surpasses those of his predecessors, Isaac and Jacob. Even though their Blessings may include matters that Moshe did not mention, nonetheless their Blessings have as yet to be realized fully. Only Moshe's Blessings have been fully actualized. The latter part of Moshe's Blessings
are expressed for the future . They are present in the spiritual sense but haven't found the people upon whom to be drawn upon. This is similar to the lightning being drawn down to the ground by a rod. We must merely make ourselves into Moshe's rod in order for the Blessing to be drawn to the ground. The problem is that we haven't wanted to really do so as yet!
The truth is that most of us really don't know what a Berocha is. For example what is the reason a man of Moshe's stature can make a Berocha whereas a lesser person can't? After all we all make Berochos in our Prayers-over 100 each day!
So what is so special about Moshe making a Berocha?
Furthermore, what is the difference between a prayer and a Berocha. Furthermore if a Tzaddik can give a person a Berocha why is it that most of us still struggle even after receiving a Berocha from a Tzaddik ?
The answer may surprise you. The term Berocha means a flow from a higher source.
That means to say that the Berocha that a Tzaddik gives a person is commensurate with the flow or potential that the individual has . If your potential is to receive only after struggle that will be the result of the Blessing.
So if the Blessing only actualizes what i have in potential then why the need to receive from a Tzaddik's Blessing?
The answer may surprise you. Sometimes our potential is stuck in the mud and cannot get started. So what happens to our potential ? It remains in the spiritual world ready to reward us for a Blessing unattained in our world. The power of the Tzaddik is to bring it into the real world so that the potential we have should be realized sooner than later.
If that is all then what is so special about the Blessing of Moshe over all other righteous people including his brother Aharon?
Moshe saw the world through the eyes of the Torah . everything in the universe has its' source of existence within the Torah. When Moshe expressed a Blessing it was a Blessing from the Torah source of that Person, Tribe or Nation.In other words, the Blessing of Moshe is a Blessing from the Torah itself!
The difference between a Blessing from the Torah and all souls or angels ?
The Torah identifies the essence of the recipient of the Blessing so that there can be no deviation. Furthermore by invoking the Torah the Blessing must happen and must happen in the easiest possible manner.
In other words, by Blessing the People , Moshe made sure that their potential would be realized and in the easiest possible sequence.
This is the meaning of the insertion of the words Torah Tzivah Lonu Moshe - Moshe commanded us to keep the Torah in the Blessing of Moshe. This tells us the source of Moshe's Berocha- the Torah itself is Blessing us and making us fulfill our untapped powers.
The ability of Moshe to bless actually then surpasses those of his predecessors, Isaac and Jacob. Even though their Blessings may include matters that Moshe did not mention, nonetheless their Blessings have as yet to be realized fully. Only Moshe's Blessings have been fully actualized. The latter part of Moshe's Blessings
are expressed for the future . They are present in the spiritual sense but haven't found the people upon whom to be drawn upon. This is similar to the lightning being drawn down to the ground by a rod. We must merely make ourselves into Moshe's rod in order for the Blessing to be drawn to the ground. The problem is that we haven't wanted to really do so as yet!
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Bless You!
Moshe blesses the people of Israel including all of the tribes except for the Shimonites. This, explains Rashi,was because he was still angered at what the Shimonites had done with the Midianite women.
There had been several tribes that had challenged Moshe's leadership, yet Moshe found it within him to bless even them. Yet when it came to the Shimonites he could not bring himself to bless them.
The lesson is an awesome one. All sins can have a time to be overlooked and forgotten. The sin of intermarriage with the subsequent loss of Jewish identity has no way of being overlooked!
Yet here we talk of the survivors of the episode. Surely Moshe could have blessed them ?
We must conclude that the nature that turned the Shimonites into becoming enticed en-masse,
was a general defect that had to be corrected . Had Moshe blessed the surviving Shimonites they would have assumed that they need not look into themselves regarding this weakness as they hadn't sinned as their unfortunate brothers did .
By withholding an open Blessing for them , the Shimonites were moved to do Teshuvah.
The question then turns to identifying the element within Shimon's character that could have affected all of his progeny . What could it have been ?
This requires one to declare at the onset that the Tribes were so much of a higher nature than ourselves that we cannot possibly compare ourselves or hope to truly fathom their thoughts. Nonetheless, the fact that Shimon more than any brother was jealous of Yossef and wished him harm, reflects upon an insecure and unsatisfied nature. Unhappiness and jealousy make for the kind of environment where one is easily enticed by someone offering care and pleasure.
Through the 272 years since Joseph's sale into slavery the Shimonites had not progressed in this area.
For this reason they could not be singled out for Blessing as the nature that made them dissatisfied had to be uprooted first.
There had been several tribes that had challenged Moshe's leadership, yet Moshe found it within him to bless even them. Yet when it came to the Shimonites he could not bring himself to bless them.
The lesson is an awesome one. All sins can have a time to be overlooked and forgotten. The sin of intermarriage with the subsequent loss of Jewish identity has no way of being overlooked!
Yet here we talk of the survivors of the episode. Surely Moshe could have blessed them ?
We must conclude that the nature that turned the Shimonites into becoming enticed en-masse,
was a general defect that had to be corrected . Had Moshe blessed the surviving Shimonites they would have assumed that they need not look into themselves regarding this weakness as they hadn't sinned as their unfortunate brothers did .
By withholding an open Blessing for them , the Shimonites were moved to do Teshuvah.
The question then turns to identifying the element within Shimon's character that could have affected all of his progeny . What could it have been ?
This requires one to declare at the onset that the Tribes were so much of a higher nature than ourselves that we cannot possibly compare ourselves or hope to truly fathom their thoughts. Nonetheless, the fact that Shimon more than any brother was jealous of Yossef and wished him harm, reflects upon an insecure and unsatisfied nature. Unhappiness and jealousy make for the kind of environment where one is easily enticed by someone offering care and pleasure.
Through the 272 years since Joseph's sale into slavery the Shimonites had not progressed in this area.
For this reason they could not be singled out for Blessing as the nature that made them dissatisfied had to be uprooted first.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
36 more than just the Righteous
The number 36 is usually associated with the 36 hidden Tzaddikim known as lamedvovniks who are hidden from view of the masses and upon whom the world is given Grace.
There is however a different 36- one that is found buried in the Torah that I have discovered has deep historical significance.
That is, that our father Yaakov-Jacob was away from his father Isaac for 36 years . Twenty two of those years were in exile while fourteen years were spent studying in Yeshiva . Although the 14 years aren't mentioned specifically, they are inferred by comparing the dates of parallel events and comparing the time frames. There are other hints at the 14 years that Yaakov spent in Yeshiva,
however,the Torah elaborates only on his years spent in exile.
Nonetheless,since this happened to our Patriarch Yaakov, the rule is Maaseh Avot Simon LaBonim- what occured to the Fathers in the Torah are a paradigm for what will take place with their children.
So, what took place in our history that paralleled the 36 years of Yaakov? I once opined that for every year of exile that Yaakov experienced we had 100 years in turn of exile. From that I concluded that for every year that Yaakov spent in Yeshiva we had 100 years in our Holy Land!
I did not at that time realize how exact that speculation was. For according to the Seder Olam written in the second century of the Common Era by Rabbi Yossi of the Mishneh, Yaakov was born in the Hebrew year 2108. Now Rabbi Yossi could not have anticipated the future .However, the
modern Yishuv of our Holy Land was re-established in the year 5708 or exactly 3600 years later!
What makes this most remarkable is that Yaakov first enters Egypt at the age of 130. During his absence in exile and Yeshiva, his parents ,Isaac and Rebbecca were considered the royalty of their area and controlled their territories in the Holy Land.
Later Joshua and the Tribes enterred the land in the year 2488 and established the first Commonwealth for 850 years until the Babylonian Exile . Afterwards , the exiles returned , built the second Holy Temple and this lasted for 420 years until the destruction of the second Temple.
Adding them up gives us exactly 1400 years of sovereignty over our Holy Land until 5708, while leaving us with exactly 2200 years of exile in that 3600 year period. Remarkable!
It is well known that the Ramban taught his students that the Torah portion of the song of Haazinu
has within it the history of all the people as well as every individual of Israel. (that story with Ramban's former student who turned apostate i will post later ).
Thus I was seeking evidence for this 3600 year History in the verses of Haazinu. If you examine the verses-there are only 42 of them, the first 14 speak about Israel's emergence and blessings.
The next 22 begin with Israel's rebelliousness and subsequent troubles. these are concluded by verse 36 which declares that "For G-d will judge his people and absolve them when He will see that all hope is lost and no leader or savior is there (for them)!"
Thus the end of the Golus is prophecized at that time. This does not mean that the redemption automatically comes as is seen from the ensuing verses.
One thing is clear, a new era has entered and the rules have changed . All we need are Eyes to See and Ears to Hear!
There is however a different 36- one that is found buried in the Torah that I have discovered has deep historical significance.
That is, that our father Yaakov-Jacob was away from his father Isaac for 36 years . Twenty two of those years were in exile while fourteen years were spent studying in Yeshiva . Although the 14 years aren't mentioned specifically, they are inferred by comparing the dates of parallel events and comparing the time frames. There are other hints at the 14 years that Yaakov spent in Yeshiva,
however,the Torah elaborates only on his years spent in exile.
Nonetheless,since this happened to our Patriarch Yaakov, the rule is Maaseh Avot Simon LaBonim- what occured to the Fathers in the Torah are a paradigm for what will take place with their children.
So, what took place in our history that paralleled the 36 years of Yaakov? I once opined that for every year of exile that Yaakov experienced we had 100 years in turn of exile. From that I concluded that for every year that Yaakov spent in Yeshiva we had 100 years in our Holy Land!
I did not at that time realize how exact that speculation was. For according to the Seder Olam written in the second century of the Common Era by Rabbi Yossi of the Mishneh, Yaakov was born in the Hebrew year 2108. Now Rabbi Yossi could not have anticipated the future .However, the
modern Yishuv of our Holy Land was re-established in the year 5708 or exactly 3600 years later!
What makes this most remarkable is that Yaakov first enters Egypt at the age of 130. During his absence in exile and Yeshiva, his parents ,Isaac and Rebbecca were considered the royalty of their area and controlled their territories in the Holy Land.
Later Joshua and the Tribes enterred the land in the year 2488 and established the first Commonwealth for 850 years until the Babylonian Exile . Afterwards , the exiles returned , built the second Holy Temple and this lasted for 420 years until the destruction of the second Temple.
Adding them up gives us exactly 1400 years of sovereignty over our Holy Land until 5708, while leaving us with exactly 2200 years of exile in that 3600 year period. Remarkable!
It is well known that the Ramban taught his students that the Torah portion of the song of Haazinu
has within it the history of all the people as well as every individual of Israel. (that story with Ramban's former student who turned apostate i will post later ).
Thus I was seeking evidence for this 3600 year History in the verses of Haazinu. If you examine the verses-there are only 42 of them, the first 14 speak about Israel's emergence and blessings.
The next 22 begin with Israel's rebelliousness and subsequent troubles. these are concluded by verse 36 which declares that "For G-d will judge his people and absolve them when He will see that all hope is lost and no leader or savior is there (for them)!"
Thus the end of the Golus is prophecized at that time. This does not mean that the redemption automatically comes as is seen from the ensuing verses.
One thing is clear, a new era has entered and the rules have changed . All we need are Eyes to See and Ears to Hear!
Monday, September 17, 2007
The Wonder number 5768
As mentioned before the year brings with it many blessings that are hinted at in the number of the year itself. Besides the last digit 8 which represents a dimension beyond space-time-the transcendent blessing,the number 68, the last 2 digits ,stands for Chayim which is = in numerology to 68.
Furthermore , an even number represents a year in which we must and can connect to others.Also the the letters for 68 =samech chet stands for sach or speaking -communicating. The Torah is called Sam Chayim -the medicine for life which is the abbreviation of Samech Chet. Furthermore ,
speaking in Torah is said to bring one greater life as well as healing as it says Chayim heym lemotzoeyhem - the words of the Torah are Life to those who speak them aloud!
The number 68 represents abundant life , communication and the living healing effect of Torah study.
Next on the number parade is 368 which isn't 768 because in Hebrew 768 is written as Tov Shin
Samech Ches. 400+300+68.
The number 368 is equal to twice the word Pakad which is 184. The twice Pakad is the term used for redemption twice in the Torah. Furthermore the word Pakad is the word used to indicate being blessed with children. Twice Pakad then indicates 2 children which is the fulfillment of the Mitzvah of having children through a boy and a girl. Thus 368 represents redemption and children.
The next number is 768 which is the exact number of prutot or pennies in a Sela or Shekel.
This means a complete parnoso or livelihood . It represents a level above penny pinching.
Thus the number 768 reflects a blessing for 1) life 2)children and 3) livelihood.
These are all blessings that are only within the control of the Creator. This is reflected by the number 5 of the digits 5768 . For the digits of 5,7,6 and 8 , add up to 26 which is the numerical equivalent of G-D's name!
This means that the year brings with it all of the possible Blessings directly from G-D !
Amen!
Furthermore , an even number represents a year in which we must and can connect to others.Also the the letters for 68 =samech chet stands for sach or speaking -communicating. The Torah is called Sam Chayim -the medicine for life which is the abbreviation of Samech Chet. Furthermore ,
speaking in Torah is said to bring one greater life as well as healing as it says Chayim heym lemotzoeyhem - the words of the Torah are Life to those who speak them aloud!
The number 68 represents abundant life , communication and the living healing effect of Torah study.
Next on the number parade is 368 which isn't 768 because in Hebrew 768 is written as Tov Shin
Samech Ches. 400+300+68.
The number 368 is equal to twice the word Pakad which is 184. The twice Pakad is the term used for redemption twice in the Torah. Furthermore the word Pakad is the word used to indicate being blessed with children. Twice Pakad then indicates 2 children which is the fulfillment of the Mitzvah of having children through a boy and a girl. Thus 368 represents redemption and children.
The next number is 768 which is the exact number of prutot or pennies in a Sela or Shekel.
This means a complete parnoso or livelihood . It represents a level above penny pinching.
Thus the number 768 reflects a blessing for 1) life 2)children and 3) livelihood.
These are all blessings that are only within the control of the Creator. This is reflected by the number 5 of the digits 5768 . For the digits of 5,7,6 and 8 , add up to 26 which is the numerical equivalent of G-D's name!
This means that the year brings with it all of the possible Blessings directly from G-D !
Amen!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
5768
Some people have asked me what is significant about the year 5768. So here are my observations with the express word of caution that i failed Prophecy 3 in Yeshiva. That's because i never took 1 or 2 either. Maybe they wasn't offered at the time?
Any time you have an even numbered year you have got to reach out to another and bind with that person.
Furthermore, anytime you have the number 8 ending the year number, it has the potential for being a monumental year. For besides the fact that the number 8 is otherworldly - beyond nature,all of the major events both the triumphs and the tragedies have taken place in the years ending with 8!
Furthermore the last 2 digits are 68 which is equivalent to the word Chayim-meaning life.Therefore this is a year of great significance in which we must strive to give life to others.
The letters samech-khess which stand for the number 68 is also an acrostic for the words Sam Chayim -literally the spice of life! This refers to the Torah ,when studied properly is called the spice of life.
It is therefore incumbent upon us to increase our love and intensity in the study of Torah,especially those areas in Torah which are called Sam Chayim commonly known as the Kabbalah.
Today there are many who wish us harm. Only through unity can we be protected. As an extra measure of protection and unity, this is the year to share the Kabbalah with our friends through the various media available,whether by direct study,or via e-mail. The main thing is that the Sam Chayim be publicized and understood by the wider audience.
As an aside,we still haven't begun to fight radical Islam on its' own turf. That is it's time to confront its' falsehoods inconsistencies and its' evil for all to see...
Any time you have an even numbered year you have got to reach out to another and bind with that person.
Furthermore, anytime you have the number 8 ending the year number, it has the potential for being a monumental year. For besides the fact that the number 8 is otherworldly - beyond nature,all of the major events both the triumphs and the tragedies have taken place in the years ending with 8!
Furthermore the last 2 digits are 68 which is equivalent to the word Chayim-meaning life.Therefore this is a year of great significance in which we must strive to give life to others.
The letters samech-khess which stand for the number 68 is also an acrostic for the words Sam Chayim -literally the spice of life! This refers to the Torah ,when studied properly is called the spice of life.
It is therefore incumbent upon us to increase our love and intensity in the study of Torah,especially those areas in Torah which are called Sam Chayim commonly known as the Kabbalah.
Today there are many who wish us harm. Only through unity can we be protected. As an extra measure of protection and unity, this is the year to share the Kabbalah with our friends through the various media available,whether by direct study,or via e-mail. The main thing is that the Sam Chayim be publicized and understood by the wider audience.
As an aside,we still haven't begun to fight radical Islam on its' own turf. That is it's time to confront its' falsehoods inconsistencies and its' evil for all to see...
Rosh Hashanah is not a new year-nor do we wish each other Happy New Year!
Contrary to popular thinking Rosh Hashanah is not Happy New Year . It isn't even the real beginning of any time.
The only thing we can say on Rosh Hashanah is Happy Birthday! For on this day Adam and Eve were created.
What is so special on Rosh Hashanah? We all are recreated on this day with our relationship with G-D.
Someone once asked how does G-D feel about me?The answer is surprising-G-D feels about you the same way you feel about G-D. G-D is all powerful. So why does G-D deal with limited creatures who have runny noses bad backs and bad senses of humor? Because we Love G-D! We don't just want life . We want a life that has G-D
in it. We want G-D to bless our children, care fore our sick and provide for our poor.
However, even more than that we want G-D to be close to us . As King David in his famous song of Repentance cries out-Don't cast us away from You and Your Holy Spirit you shall not take away from us.
In other words all King David really wanted was to remain close with G-D. Rosh Hashanah is the day of coronation of G-D Almighty, More than that , it's the day that G-D reaffirms the relationship with us.
The most painful part of disappointing one's parents is the fear of abandonment. This is the drama that unfolds even as we beseech G-D to grant us life , health and good children. More than any reward the soul craves for G-D,
We are the child that has lost its way and want to only come home. We are the child crying and unable to speak as we see our Heavenly Father before us. What can we do when words fail us? We cry out with the Shofar and our Father turns to us and everything else seems meaningless.
The whole world receives this spiritual renewal on Thursday . What will we be thinking at this time ?
What happens to us on Rosh Hashanah is indicative of the year we will have. For Rosh Hashanah means the Head of the Year. Just as the headmaster is the one who sets the spirit of the school and the head coach the enthusiasm of the team,so too,
the Head Time sets the tone , the spirit , the delight the energy for the year.
It's a serious time requiring self inspection. However, don't get bogged down with the details. This is all about you and G-D.
everything else is commentary.
Contrary to popular thinking Rosh Hashanah is not Happy New Year . It isn't even the real beginning of any time.
The only thing we can say on Rosh Hashanah is Happy Birthday! For on this day Adam and Eve were created.
What is so special on Rosh Hashanah? We all are recreated on this day with our relationship with G-D.
Someone once asked how does G-D feel about me?The answer is surprising-G-D feels about you the same way you feel about G-D. G-D is all powerful. So why does G-D deal with limited creatures who have runny noses bad backs and bad senses of humor? Because we Love G-D! We don't just want life . We want a life that has G-D
in it. We want G-D to bless our children, care fore our sick and provide for our poor.
However, even more than that we want G-D to be close to us . As King David in his famous song of Repentance cries out-Don't cast us away from You and Your Holy Spirit you shall not take away from us.
In other words all King David really wanted was to remain close with G-D. Rosh Hashanah is the day of coronation of G-D Almighty, More than that , it's the day that G-D reaffirms the relationship with us.
The most painful part of disappointing one's parents is the fear of abandonment. This is the drama that unfolds even as we beseech G-D to grant us life , health and good children. More than any reward the soul craves for G-D,
We are the child that has lost its way and want to only come home. We are the child crying and unable to speak as we see our Heavenly Father before us. What can we do when words fail us? We cry out with the Shofar and our Father turns to us and everything else seems meaningless.
The whole world receives this spiritual renewal on Thursday . What will we be thinking at this time ?
What happens to us on Rosh Hashanah is indicative of the year we will have. For Rosh Hashanah means the Head of the Year. Just as the headmaster is the one who sets the spirit of the school and the head coach the enthusiasm of the team,so too,
the Head Time sets the tone , the spirit , the delight the energy for the year.
It's a serious time requiring self inspection. However, don't get bogged down with the details. This is all about you and G-D.
everything else is commentary.
Friday, September 7, 2007
Transferring Power
Moshe transfers his leadership to Yehoshua on the last day of his life and gives Yehoshua his mission . He is to lead the people into Eretz Yisroel , conquer and divide the land amongst the remaining 91/2 tribes as well as give the Levtes their 48 cities. Yehoshua accepts but there is no statement of Yehoshua recorded in the Torah. This is incredible as Eleazar, the Cohen Gadol
does get quoted after the Midian Forray. So why does Yehoshua say nothing even while he is installed as Supreme Leader and Lawgiver?
The answer lies in the unique role each King and Spiritual heir of Moshe has. That is , he is the extension of Moshe's life. As such there was no need for Yehoshua to say anything as all that he had to say was said by Moshe. In fact the only thing that Yehoshua would say was , thus said my master Moshe etc...
In fact the Kabbalists state that Moshe Chay=Moshe lives is the numerical equivalent of HaMoshiach-The Messiah! Thus Moshiach will be the living incarnation of Moshe.
So , how do you know the heir of Moshe? The one who will only quote from his Moshe is Moshe's heir! Someone vos zogt eigens-says his own is not the heir of Moshe . He may be a student of Moshe but he isn't Moshe's heir.
This is why the Rambam says that Moshiach will be only close to not superior to Moshe in Prophecy. This is because the Torah of Moshiach will be illuminating the words of Moshe,
What do we learn from this ? We should strive to learn the words of Moshe so that in a small way we can be Moshe's heirs. This is why the Song of Moshe known as Shirat Haazinu is traditionally learned by heart so that at least a little of Moshe's words should always be with us.
May Moshe's heir , the living Moshe be revealed now!
does get quoted after the Midian Forray. So why does Yehoshua say nothing even while he is installed as Supreme Leader and Lawgiver?
The answer lies in the unique role each King and Spiritual heir of Moshe has. That is , he is the extension of Moshe's life. As such there was no need for Yehoshua to say anything as all that he had to say was said by Moshe. In fact the only thing that Yehoshua would say was , thus said my master Moshe etc...
In fact the Kabbalists state that Moshe Chay=Moshe lives is the numerical equivalent of HaMoshiach-The Messiah! Thus Moshiach will be the living incarnation of Moshe.
So , how do you know the heir of Moshe? The one who will only quote from his Moshe is Moshe's heir! Someone vos zogt eigens-says his own is not the heir of Moshe . He may be a student of Moshe but he isn't Moshe's heir.
This is why the Rambam says that Moshiach will be only close to not superior to Moshe in Prophecy. This is because the Torah of Moshiach will be illuminating the words of Moshe,
What do we learn from this ? We should strive to learn the words of Moshe so that in a small way we can be Moshe's heirs. This is why the Song of Moshe known as Shirat Haazinu is traditionally learned by heart so that at least a little of Moshe's words should always be with us.
May Moshe's heir , the living Moshe be revealed now!
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
standing tall
Standing Tall
The Torah relates that on the day of Moshe’s death , the people were gathered once more in order to make their final commitment to G-D before entering the Promised Land.
Moshe says that you are all standing tall today and enumerated the various levels of social strata. He says today you are all Standing Tall before G-D. If that is the case then why must Moshe mention the various groups that are accepting G-D’s oath?
Wouldn’t it have been better to state that all of you are together as one nation and are responsible for each other. Why the divisions amongst the people at a time when they are to feel total unity?
The answer is that each person from his vantage point sees G-D in a different way. We are supposed to accept G-D and G-D’s commandments in the unique way we see G-D and appreciate the Supreme Wisdom .
The Talmud tells us that when a Jew says Kiddush on Friday Night we become a partner with G-D in the process of Creation!?
Now I can understand that by acknowledging the Creator’s works that we have become associates and intertwined spiritually. Where does one leap into becoming G-D’s Partner? Furthermore, how do we share in the process of creation ?
The answer is that in our world the observer solidifies and actualizes reality. There are a multifaceted set of experiments that have verified this incredible secret. Reality is formed by the observer!
There are aspects to reality that don’t become truly “real” until someone has observed them and interpreted them as such.
That is why we become partners in Creation WITH G-D!
That is because , by understanding and observing that the world was and continues to be created by G-D we actualize that reality . For until there is an observer that acknowledges that G-D created this world, the world isn’t really created and can return to its’ original state of spiritual and non-physical reality. By observing that the world is a creation ex-nihilo from nothing to something, the world is worthy of and actually attains reality!
This is why at this juncture when all are together, it is important to identify the various groups. For each individual sees a different world. Hence we are encouraged to view the world with our unique perspective and in this way create our own world that we observe
And create!
The power of each individual isn’t just cumulative. Rather our world is a different world that we create every day through our experience, insight and Good Works!
Standing Tall
The Torah relates that on the day of Moshe’s death , the people were gathered once more in order to make their final commitment to G-D before entering the Promised Land.
Moshe says that you are all standing tall today and enumerated the various levels of social strata. He says today you are all Standing Tall before G-D. If that is the case then why must Moshe mention the various groups that are accepting G-D’s oath?
Wouldn’t it have been better to state that all of you are together as one nation and are responsible for each other. Why the divisions amongst the people at a time when they are to feel total unity?
The answer is that each person from his vantage point sees G-D in a different way. We are supposed to accept G-D and G-D’s commandments in the unique way we see G-D and appreciate the Supreme Wisdom .
The Talmud tells us that when a Jew says Kiddush on Friday Night we become a partner with G-D in the process of Creation!?
Now I can understand that by acknowledging the Creator’s works that we have become associates and intertwined spiritually. Where does one leap into becoming G-D’s Partner? Furthermore, how do we share in the process of creation ?
The answer is that in our world the observer solidifies and actualizes reality. There are a multifaceted set of experiments that have verified this incredible secret. Reality is formed by the observer!
There are aspects to reality that don’t become truly “real” until someone has observed them and interpreted them as such.
That is why we become partners in Creation WITH G-D!
That is because , by understanding and observing that the world was and continues to be created by G-D we actualize that reality . For until there is an observer that acknowledges that G-D created this world, the world isn’t really created and can return to its’ original state of spiritual and non-physical reality. By observing that the world is a creation ex-nihilo from nothing to something, the world is worthy of and actually attains reality!
This is why at this juncture when all are together, it is important to identify the various groups. For each individual sees a different world. Hence we are encouraged to view the world with our unique perspective and in this way create our own world that we observe
And create!
The power of each individual isn’t just cumulative. Rather our world is a different world that we create every day through our experience, insight and Good Works!
The Torah relates that on the day of Moshe’s death , the people were gathered once more in order to make their final commitment to G-D before entering the Promised Land.
Moshe says that you are all standing tall today and enumerated the various levels of social strata. He says today you are all Standing Tall before G-D. If that is the case then why must Moshe mention the various groups that are accepting G-D’s oath?
Wouldn’t it have been better to state that all of you are together as one nation and are responsible for each other. Why the divisions amongst the people at a time when they are to feel total unity?
The answer is that each person from his vantage point sees G-D in a different way. We are supposed to accept G-D and G-D’s commandments in the unique way we see G-D and appreciate the Supreme Wisdom .
The Talmud tells us that when a Jew says Kiddush on Friday Night we become a partner with G-D in the process of Creation!?
Now I can understand that by acknowledging the Creator’s works that we have become associates and intertwined spiritually. Where does one leap into becoming G-D’s Partner? Furthermore, how do we share in the process of creation ?
The answer is that in our world the observer solidifies and actualizes reality. There are a multifaceted set of experiments that have verified this incredible secret. Reality is formed by the observer!
There are aspects to reality that don’t become truly “real” until someone has observed them and interpreted them as such.
That is why we become partners in Creation WITH G-D!
That is because , by understanding and observing that the world was and continues to be created by G-D we actualize that reality . For until there is an observer that acknowledges that G-D created this world, the world isn’t really created and can return to its’ original state of spiritual and non-physical reality. By observing that the world is a creation ex-nihilo from nothing to something, the world is worthy of and actually attains reality!
This is why at this juncture when all are together, it is important to identify the various groups. For each individual sees a different world. Hence we are encouraged to view the world with our unique perspective and in this way create our own world that we observe
And create!
The power of each individual isn’t just cumulative. Rather our world is a different world that we create every day through our experience, insight and Good Works!
Standing Tall
The Torah relates that on the day of Moshe’s death , the people were gathered once more in order to make their final commitment to G-D before entering the Promised Land.
Moshe says that you are all standing tall today and enumerated the various levels of social strata. He says today you are all Standing Tall before G-D. If that is the case then why must Moshe mention the various groups that are accepting G-D’s oath?
Wouldn’t it have been better to state that all of you are together as one nation and are responsible for each other. Why the divisions amongst the people at a time when they are to feel total unity?
The answer is that each person from his vantage point sees G-D in a different way. We are supposed to accept G-D and G-D’s commandments in the unique way we see G-D and appreciate the Supreme Wisdom .
The Talmud tells us that when a Jew says Kiddush on Friday Night we become a partner with G-D in the process of Creation!?
Now I can understand that by acknowledging the Creator’s works that we have become associates and intertwined spiritually. Where does one leap into becoming G-D’s Partner? Furthermore, how do we share in the process of creation ?
The answer is that in our world the observer solidifies and actualizes reality. There are a multifaceted set of experiments that have verified this incredible secret. Reality is formed by the observer!
There are aspects to reality that don’t become truly “real” until someone has observed them and interpreted them as such.
That is why we become partners in Creation WITH G-D!
That is because , by understanding and observing that the world was and continues to be created by G-D we actualize that reality . For until there is an observer that acknowledges that G-D created this world, the world isn’t really created and can return to its’ original state of spiritual and non-physical reality. By observing that the world is a creation ex-nihilo from nothing to something, the world is worthy of and actually attains reality!
This is why at this juncture when all are together, it is important to identify the various groups. For each individual sees a different world. Hence we are encouraged to view the world with our unique perspective and in this way create our own world that we observe
And create!
The power of each individual isn’t just cumulative. Rather our world is a different world that we create every day through our experience, insight and Good Works!
Standing Tall
Standing Tall
The Torah relates that on the day of Moshe’s death , the people were gathered once more in order to make their final commitment to G-D before entering the Promised Land.
Moshe says that you are all standing tall today and enumerated the various levels of social strata. He says today you are all Standing Tall before G-D. If that is the case then why must Moshe mention the various groups that are accepting G-D’s oath?
Wouldn’t it have been better to state that all of you are together as one nation and are responsible for each other. Why the divisions amongst the people at a time when they are to feel total unity?
The answer is that each person from his vantage point sees G-D in a different way. We are supposed to accept G-D and G-D’s commandments in the unique way we see G-D and appreciate the Supreme Wisdom .
The Talmud tells us that when a Jew says Kiddush on Friday Night we become a partner with G-D in the process of Creation!?
Now I can understand that by acknowledging the Creator’s works that we have become associates and intertwined spiritually. Where does one leap into becoming G-D’s Partner? Furthermore, how do we share in the process of creation ?
The answer is that in our world the observer solidifies and actualizes reality. There are a multifaceted set of experiments that have verified this incredible secret. Reality is formed by the observer!
There are aspects to reality that don’t become truly “real” until someone has observed them and interpreted them as such.
That is why we become partners in Creation WITH G-D!
That is because , by understanding and observing that the world was and continues to be created by G-D we actualize that reality . For until there is an observer that acknowledges that G-D created this world, the world isn’t really created and can return to its’ original state of spiritual and non-physical reality. By observing that the world is a creation ex-nihilo from nothing to something, the world is worthy of and actually attains reality!
This is why at this juncture when all are together, it is important to identify the various groups. For each individual sees a different world. Hence we are encouraged to view the world with our unique perspective and in this way create our own world that we observe
And create!
The power of each individual isn’t just cumulative. Rather our world is a different world that we create every day through our experience, insight and Good Works!
The Torah relates that on the day of Moshe’s death , the people were gathered once more in order to make their final commitment to G-D before entering the Promised Land.
Moshe says that you are all standing tall today and enumerated the various levels of social strata. He says today you are all Standing Tall before G-D. If that is the case then why must Moshe mention the various groups that are accepting G-D’s oath?
Wouldn’t it have been better to state that all of you are together as one nation and are responsible for each other. Why the divisions amongst the people at a time when they are to feel total unity?
The answer is that each person from his vantage point sees G-D in a different way. We are supposed to accept G-D and G-D’s commandments in the unique way we see G-D and appreciate the Supreme Wisdom .
The Talmud tells us that when a Jew says Kiddush on Friday Night we become a partner with G-D in the process of Creation!?
Now I can understand that by acknowledging the Creator’s works that we have become associates and intertwined spiritually. Where does one leap into becoming G-D’s Partner? Furthermore, how do we share in the process of creation ?
The answer is that in our world the observer solidifies and actualizes reality. There are a multifaceted set of experiments that have verified this incredible secret. Reality is formed by the observer!
There are aspects to reality that don’t become truly “real” until someone has observed them and interpreted them as such.
That is why we become partners in Creation WITH G-D!
That is because , by understanding and observing that the world was and continues to be created by G-D we actualize that reality . For until there is an observer that acknowledges that G-D created this world, the world isn’t really created and can return to its’ original state of spiritual and non-physical reality. By observing that the world is a creation ex-nihilo from nothing to something, the world is worthy of and actually attains reality!
This is why at this juncture when all are together, it is important to identify the various groups. For each individual sees a different world. Hence we are encouraged to view the world with our unique perspective and in this way create our own world that we observe
And create!
The power of each individual isn’t just cumulative. Rather our world is a different world that we create every day through our experience, insight and Good Works!
We all stand tall!
The Torah portion is still involved with warnings and oaths as well as a prophetic promise of our ultimate redemption and salvation. The Torah is within our reach and easy for us to do . The souls of Israel are G-D's chosen forever and since we can't be exchanged for another model, we had better live up to our commitments .
Again the scepter of looming disaster hangs over us . Yet we are told that we can handle it all in stride . Why must it be so difficult to be Jewish?
There are numerous approaches, however they follow the 3 tiered approaches we have discovered.
1) The road to Paradise must be paved with struggles. Only then is the reward truly appreciated.
2)The struggle is needed to develop as a person. The greater the struggle , the greater the insight into life and G-D's wisdom.
3)The struggle itself is a Divine Light that can only be received through negative experiences.
Thus in actuality all the curses are really Blessings!
Again the scepter of looming disaster hangs over us . Yet we are told that we can handle it all in stride . Why must it be so difficult to be Jewish?
There are numerous approaches, however they follow the 3 tiered approaches we have discovered.
1) The road to Paradise must be paved with struggles. Only then is the reward truly appreciated.
2)The struggle is needed to develop as a person. The greater the struggle , the greater the insight into life and G-D's wisdom.
3)The struggle itself is a Divine Light that can only be received through negative experiences.
Thus in actuality all the curses are really Blessings!
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
WHY/
The oft asked question "why do we suffer ?" is asked with different spins and details . However , the answers are always unsettling and depressing even if we feel they are true.
So, why is there all of this suffering? Why are there so many curses?
I really don't know. However, just as exercise leaves us in better shape , so too, the ability to overcome adversity is a strengthening agent. Our collective sufferings and toils have made us sensitive to the pains of others. We have a Destiny formed by G-D's Will. In whatever form it ultimately expresses itself,one thing is clear:
We have become better people through the veil of tears . We have not become predators upon others, convincing ourselves that we have the moral right to do so, for we have been violated. Instead ,we have learned to give to the world. Not just with our money. With our hearts, our minds and our talents.
Why the Curses? I don't know. However, we have become more human through them.
So, why is there all of this suffering? Why are there so many curses?
I really don't know. However, just as exercise leaves us in better shape , so too, the ability to overcome adversity is a strengthening agent. Our collective sufferings and toils have made us sensitive to the pains of others. We have a Destiny formed by G-D's Will. In whatever form it ultimately expresses itself,one thing is clear:
We have become better people through the veil of tears . We have not become predators upon others, convincing ourselves that we have the moral right to do so, for we have been violated. Instead ,we have learned to give to the world. Not just with our money. With our hearts, our minds and our talents.
Why the Curses? I don't know. However, we have become more human through them.
Monday, August 27, 2007
More Curses???!!!
We have been warned that if we will not heed the Commandments then the curses that follow will be swift and devastating. In fact 98 Curses are stated. Even more are implied.
In that case why are we so excited about Torah Study if the result of our efforts are that if we sin even a little, then we can and will be punished into submission.
This sounds more like Attila than Moses. Yet it is Moses saying these ominous words.Why do we need such fright?
The problem really is that we wish not to face up to realities. Until Moshiach will come there w3ill be pain a well as suffering.We cannot avoid that scenario. However,we can avoid the curses through Service to G-D with Joy!
In other words, Moses is trying to get us an edge. Life will be tough . However, if you face G-D with Joy and receive everything with Joy then your fate will be altered. For it is not the punishment that counts but the lesson it delivers!
In that case why are we so excited about Torah Study if the result of our efforts are that if we sin even a little, then we can and will be punished into submission.
This sounds more like Attila than Moses. Yet it is Moses saying these ominous words.Why do we need such fright?
The problem really is that we wish not to face up to realities. Until Moshiach will come there w3ill be pain a well as suffering.We cannot avoid that scenario. However,we can avoid the curses through Service to G-D with Joy!
In other words, Moses is trying to get us an edge. Life will be tough . However, if you face G-D with Joy and receive everything with Joy then your fate will be altered. For it is not the punishment that counts but the lesson it delivers!
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Counting your Blessings
THE Sidra of the week is a frightening one. It is filled with ominous images that were fulfilled throughout our history in the most stark and deadly fashion . It is a warning that draws little attention
today because we would rather believe that our destiny is in our own hands as opposed to some ancient Law.
The Torah says otherwise- that our protection while requiring vigilance and prowess in both men and materials, still is dependent upon our relationship with each other and with G-D.
According to The Great Tannah Rabbi Shimon Ben Nesanel, the worst trait is to be unapprecitive .
When we borrow money from someone we should appreciate the other person's sacrifice and pay back the loan without any resentment. G-D loans us our souls in return for fulfilling the Mitzvos . Shouldn't we be glad to return the debt fully paid with a smile?
This is the root of all of our shortcomings. when one is appreciative one is happy with whatever is dealt,whatever the level of success . In such an environment, where there is light and happiness,
the Torah teaches us that we will not have enemies. They will be frightened of us. If instead we argue with our neighbors incessantly and our relationship with G-D becomes one of what have you done for me lately this shield of Love and Divine Harmony is shattered. Even where there is military prowess , where the spirit is lacking,where hope and enthusiasm are erode by ego and arrogance,
the other side will win.
The winners of the last wars were not those who had more guns but who had more determination.
Of course the atomic bomb helped. However, ultimately the superior enthusiasm of a people that wants its' freedom overcame a system of tyranny. Values bring out valiance. the longer the battle, the more spirit and harmony are a factor.
The loss of appreciation brought with it an erosion of values and relationships that brought us our present Golus .
The antidote to Golus isn't just more M16's. It's being thankful to the Creator for every breath!
today because we would rather believe that our destiny is in our own hands as opposed to some ancient Law.
The Torah says otherwise- that our protection while requiring vigilance and prowess in both men and materials, still is dependent upon our relationship with each other and with G-D.
According to The Great Tannah Rabbi Shimon Ben Nesanel, the worst trait is to be unapprecitive .
When we borrow money from someone we should appreciate the other person's sacrifice and pay back the loan without any resentment. G-D loans us our souls in return for fulfilling the Mitzvos . Shouldn't we be glad to return the debt fully paid with a smile?
This is the root of all of our shortcomings. when one is appreciative one is happy with whatever is dealt,whatever the level of success . In such an environment, where there is light and happiness,
the Torah teaches us that we will not have enemies. They will be frightened of us. If instead we argue with our neighbors incessantly and our relationship with G-D becomes one of what have you done for me lately this shield of Love and Divine Harmony is shattered. Even where there is military prowess , where the spirit is lacking,where hope and enthusiasm are erode by ego and arrogance,
the other side will win.
The winners of the last wars were not those who had more guns but who had more determination.
Of course the atomic bomb helped. However, ultimately the superior enthusiasm of a people that wants its' freedom overcame a system of tyranny. Values bring out valiance. the longer the battle, the more spirit and harmony are a factor.
The loss of appreciation brought with it an erosion of values and relationships that brought us our present Golus .
The antidote to Golus isn't just more M16's. It's being thankful to the Creator for every breath!
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
IT'S WAR!
War is held in contempt by the intelligentsia , who feel that conflict should be resolved by the force of ideas. While theoretically true, nonetheless we find that oftentimes conflict cannot be resolved by negotiation or rhetoric. This is because the human being is primarily emotional , not rational.
Furthermore , self interest tends to cloud the clear intellect so that ideas as a basis for resolution is an impossibility in the world as we have it.
The American Liberal has invested too much in his ideology in order to be able to see the logical flaws within that system . This bias is so pronounced as to defy penetration . The liberal mind when it finds a contradiction to previously held positions will fall back to a mode of attack in order not to have to change its' way of thinking. This is why the New York Times continues to bash Israel even while reporting unabated Arab terror.
The reason for this goes back to a bias unseen developed in the 18th century and carried forward
into modern times. It is the bias against the Bible as well as Western Religions with whom the rennaisance battled for the ideologic high-ground for almost 2 centuries. In the end the Church adapted the findings of advanced thinkers and the researchers held up their arms in triumph.
However, since they never had to battle the muslims who were highly poor and no threat, no internal bias was formed. To a degree there was a level of "understanding" that these people had been abused by the imperialistic forces as well as church intolerance so as to make them immune from the critiques of the ivory tower class. The same held true for socialists , communists and
violent revolutionaries who were merely reacting to the excesses of power coming from the establishment. Thus these were given free passes and continue to be allowed to behave as animals as long as there are familiar targets to blame.
The Jews as the founders of the hated Bible are familiar targets and easily slip in to the role of excuse makers. Why did we blow up so many children ? It was the Jews' fault. If they weren't where they are we wouldn't have to kill them !!!??? This can only be logical to a mind used to blaming certain people for society's ills . Why is the inner city so violent? Because you don't share your wealth! Why do people take drugs ? Because of the inequalities of society !
Why do the arabs have suicide bombers? Because the Jews exist .Not only do they exist but they are occupying Arab Land ! Never mind that the Land was promised to them in the Bible!
That's because the Bible and the Bible believers are the root of all darkness! Anyone who is an enemy of this darkness must be a friend of the Ivory tower inhabitants!
Such is the war we must wage today. It isn't only with guns. We must use our pens in unison and shout "The Bible Is not the root of all evil , and college professors make mistakes too". Amen
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
No Justice No peace
The Sidra is called SHOFTIM which means judges. The whole Sidra deals with the structure of authority in the Holy Land. The most important element of authority are proper Judges . As Rashi says that the appointment of Righteous Judges is necessary for inheriting the Land . The end of the Sidra deals with preparation for wars.
What is the connection ? Improper Judges erode the strength of the country so that its' enemies are emboldened. Secondly, the strife caused by a corrupt Judicial system by nature brings war as a byproduct. As the Mishneh in the Ethics of The Fathers declares that the" Sword comes as a result of Justice Delayed and Justice Denied-Al inuy HaDin VeAl Ivus HaDin!"
One only has to see the results of liberal thinking with regards to letting predators go free , or making popular decisions as opposed to the right one. The net result are children killed by animals in human form.
Does this mean i advocate a hanging Judge? Absolutely not! However, public protection must be a factor in allowing criminals bail. Furthermore the delay tactics of the legal communities with regard to trials must be streamlined. Justice must be fair but it also must be swift. With the ability to access information quickly and evaluate evidence objectively with proper technology, it seems that the present system is fraught with unnecessary delays that allow evil people haven, while punishing the innocent. In every system their are checks and balances necessary. The legal system must find ways of protecting the masses even while giving the individual every opportunity of a reasonable defense.
When society grinds to a halt locally, it causes our image in the world to appear as weak and tentative. If we cannot decide to put predators away, then we don't know how to defend ourselves either. 9/11 showed our vulnerability. We as a nation must truly learn from that tragedy and develop the needed strategies to counter an enemy that is to date beyond our imagination. In order to do so, this country must have a unified will ,fueled by a healthy dose as to what justice is truly about.
What is the connection ? Improper Judges erode the strength of the country so that its' enemies are emboldened. Secondly, the strife caused by a corrupt Judicial system by nature brings war as a byproduct. As the Mishneh in the Ethics of The Fathers declares that the" Sword comes as a result of Justice Delayed and Justice Denied-Al inuy HaDin VeAl Ivus HaDin!"
One only has to see the results of liberal thinking with regards to letting predators go free , or making popular decisions as opposed to the right one. The net result are children killed by animals in human form.
Does this mean i advocate a hanging Judge? Absolutely not! However, public protection must be a factor in allowing criminals bail. Furthermore the delay tactics of the legal communities with regard to trials must be streamlined. Justice must be fair but it also must be swift. With the ability to access information quickly and evaluate evidence objectively with proper technology, it seems that the present system is fraught with unnecessary delays that allow evil people haven, while punishing the innocent. In every system their are checks and balances necessary. The legal system must find ways of protecting the masses even while giving the individual every opportunity of a reasonable defense.
When society grinds to a halt locally, it causes our image in the world to appear as weak and tentative. If we cannot decide to put predators away, then we don't know how to defend ourselves either. 9/11 showed our vulnerability. We as a nation must truly learn from that tragedy and develop the needed strategies to counter an enemy that is to date beyond our imagination. In order to do so, this country must have a unified will ,fueled by a healthy dose as to what justice is truly about.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Dealing with terror
Terror-it's a frightening word. It is even more frightening as a reality of life. The question is .how does the Torah deal with terrorists?
There were two methods that were found to be effective. One was the Samson method.Samson infiltrated the enemy and frustrated them from within.At first he gained their trust by marrying a Philistine woman.he then proceeded to baffle frustrate and and outmaneuver the enemy.
Can this work today? Only by developing a corps of like-minded patriots who wish to rid the earth of Al Quaeda. By planting them in sensitive areas , via their own recruitment it may be possible to frustrate and destroy them.
The second method is warfare. There are no terrorists without a support net. The support net must be attacked mercilessly. The terrorists themselves if caught fighting must be executed. However, terrorists who give themselves up would be spared and allowed to go out of their living area into exile.
The soldiers who face terrorist fighters must be fearless and have what to fight for. They cannot e be at the beginning of their family life. Either the soldier hasn't begun establishing himself, or else he is already in business, with a wife of more than a year. If he has children the better. For he will fight for their sakes with all of his power.
In the event of a fight , it has to be clear to the enemy that if he surrenders and leaves the fray that he can live . However, if he chooses to fight there will be no prisoners taken.This will prevent the suicide bomber and will weed out the true terrorists from their unwilling followers. When people must fight for their lives ,those used to inflicting terror are not so brave. They will die for nothing as the enemy will not allow them the opportunity for terror .Those who have no feeling of fear at all will fight to the end. They are those who could not be rehabilitated. Those unwilling to fight will be spared and will serve as an example for others to follow.
There were two methods that were found to be effective. One was the Samson method.Samson infiltrated the enemy and frustrated them from within.At first he gained their trust by marrying a Philistine woman.he then proceeded to baffle frustrate and and outmaneuver the enemy.
Can this work today? Only by developing a corps of like-minded patriots who wish to rid the earth of Al Quaeda. By planting them in sensitive areas , via their own recruitment it may be possible to frustrate and destroy them.
The second method is warfare. There are no terrorists without a support net. The support net must be attacked mercilessly. The terrorists themselves if caught fighting must be executed. However, terrorists who give themselves up would be spared and allowed to go out of their living area into exile.
The soldiers who face terrorist fighters must be fearless and have what to fight for. They cannot e be at the beginning of their family life. Either the soldier hasn't begun establishing himself, or else he is already in business, with a wife of more than a year. If he has children the better. For he will fight for their sakes with all of his power.
In the event of a fight , it has to be clear to the enemy that if he surrenders and leaves the fray that he can live . However, if he chooses to fight there will be no prisoners taken.This will prevent the suicide bomber and will weed out the true terrorists from their unwilling followers. When people must fight for their lives ,those used to inflicting terror are not so brave. They will die for nothing as the enemy will not allow them the opportunity for terror .Those who have no feeling of fear at all will fight to the end. They are those who could not be rehabilitated. Those unwilling to fight will be spared and will serve as an example for others to follow.
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Curses!!!
What a Sidra! it's all about blessings and curses-curses?Why do we need curses ? Shouldn't we be involved with blessings?
The answer is that the matter we received was a blessing-it was called Eretz Yisroel-The Holy Land.
However, how you perceive this gift of the Holy Land determines whether you believe it a blessing or a curse.
You just got news that your wife is expecting-great ! After 10 years of marriage you will finally have someone to nurture for posterity. Wait ! there is another call! Your wife is expecting triplets!
The values you hold dear will determine how you interpret this news. How many of today's couples will ask for and receive partial abortions ...
A blessing in one's eye can be the other's curse, depending upon their value system. If you don't like the reality-DO SOMETHING TO CHANGE IT!
The answer is that the matter we received was a blessing-it was called Eretz Yisroel-The Holy Land.
However, how you perceive this gift of the Holy Land determines whether you believe it a blessing or a curse.
You just got news that your wife is expecting-great ! After 10 years of marriage you will finally have someone to nurture for posterity. Wait ! there is another call! Your wife is expecting triplets!
The values you hold dear will determine how you interpret this news. How many of today's couples will ask for and receive partial abortions ...
A blessing in one's eye can be the other's curse, depending upon their value system. If you don't like the reality-DO SOMETHING TO CHANGE IT!
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
the "Shpize"
The second matter that Moshe mentioned was the story of the spies . Originally the leadership came with the request that the area to be conquered be seen by reconnaissance . This would supposedly allow a smooth military operation to ensue.
What seemed as an innocent request had within it the seeds of failure . Yes , it is more prudent to
spy out the territory . However , this is only when the person is set to do things on his own. However, up until that moment they were being led by G-D himself to enter the Land. So, why
should they even think that it would require their input?
We see from this suggestion that they secretly were dissatisfied with being told what to do and when to do it. Every child wants to grow up and be his own boss. However , they should have realized that G-D ,who intentionally put this nature to be independent into our system for our own benefit. Surely the Creator knew of this need to do for oneself . Obviously , it was preferable at that juncture to listen and do-called Kabolos Ohl-acceptance of the Divine Yoke.
This was a minor detail , yes , but one that caused untold destruction .
Details, Details! The devil is in the details in more ways than one imagines!
What seemed as an innocent request had within it the seeds of failure . Yes , it is more prudent to
spy out the territory . However , this is only when the person is set to do things on his own. However, up until that moment they were being led by G-D himself to enter the Land. So, why
should they even think that it would require their input?
We see from this suggestion that they secretly were dissatisfied with being told what to do and when to do it. Every child wants to grow up and be his own boss. However , they should have realized that G-D ,who intentionally put this nature to be independent into our system for our own benefit. Surely the Creator knew of this need to do for oneself . Obviously , it was preferable at that juncture to listen and do-called Kabolos Ohl-acceptance of the Divine Yoke.
This was a minor detail , yes , but one that caused untold destruction .
Details, Details! The devil is in the details in more ways than one imagines!
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
July 31,2007-16 Av 5767
Details,Details!
Our Sidra talks about the small items that ordinary people overlook.
Moshe warns us that the little things can complicate our lives greatly and we must not dismiss their importance.For this reason the whole Torah portion focuses on two events that had serious consequences.
They were the sin of the Golden Calf and that of the spies. These two events caused the generation of the Exodus to be lost and for us to wander an additional 39 years in the Desert .
The immediate question is , these events were major confrontations against G-D and G-D’s directives. So how can you compare them with the small overlooked items?
The answer is that these major rebellions started out with slight
Deviations from the norm. In the case of the Calf, it started with the inquiry as to the whereabouts of Moshe after Moshe , who had been faithful in all that he had predicted,had already told them that he would be away for 40 days . Since Moshe had been accurate before
The people should have assumed that he would follow through.
Furthermore, immediately after the giving of the Ten Statements
At Sinai, the leaders came and asked Moshe to speak to G-D on their behalf as they feared that further contact with G-D would be beyond their capacities.
Now, even though G-D agreed with their request , it was still a small unnoticeable small item of deviance . Instead of being satisfied that
Moshe would be the one to speak with G-D , they should have requested to learn the secrets of Prophecy , so that they too, would one day be capable of what Moshe had achieved. Even if they could never reach that level ,they would be showing that G-D contact was important to them , not just as the source of rules.
Instead they remained satisfied with just learning the external element of the Torah without pursuing its’ essence which is-PROPHECY!
This seemingly small detail snowballed into the Golden Calf directly and indirectly.
(to be continued)
Details,Details!
Our Sidra talks about the small items that ordinary people overlook.
Moshe warns us that the little things can complicate our lives greatly and we must not dismiss their importance.For this reason the whole Torah portion focuses on two events that had serious consequences.
They were the sin of the Golden Calf and that of the spies. These two events caused the generation of the Exodus to be lost and for us to wander an additional 39 years in the Desert .
The immediate question is , these events were major confrontations against G-D and G-D’s directives. So how can you compare them with the small overlooked items?
The answer is that these major rebellions started out with slight
Deviations from the norm. In the case of the Calf, it started with the inquiry as to the whereabouts of Moshe after Moshe , who had been faithful in all that he had predicted,had already told them that he would be away for 40 days . Since Moshe had been accurate before
The people should have assumed that he would follow through.
Furthermore, immediately after the giving of the Ten Statements
At Sinai, the leaders came and asked Moshe to speak to G-D on their behalf as they feared that further contact with G-D would be beyond their capacities.
Now, even though G-D agreed with their request , it was still a small unnoticeable small item of deviance . Instead of being satisfied that
Moshe would be the one to speak with G-D , they should have requested to learn the secrets of Prophecy , so that they too, would one day be capable of what Moshe had achieved. Even if they could never reach that level ,they would be showing that G-D contact was important to them , not just as the source of rules.
Instead they remained satisfied with just learning the external element of the Torah without pursuing its’ essence which is-PROPHECY!
This seemingly small detail snowballed into the Golden Calf directly and indirectly.
(to be continued)
Friday, July 27, 2007
VoEschanan,
This week’s Torah Portion always is read during the week of Tisha BeAv which commemorates the destruction of the Bais Hamikdosh.
We have to ask ourselves ,what is the connection between the recounting of the giving of the Decalogue which are commonly called the Ten Commandments, and the destruction of the Temple?
Where in the Decalogue is there a hint for ahavas chinom - love for no reason other than kinship of each Jew for each other ?
What is the relationship if any of any of the themes of the Sidra to the destruction?
We know that the first Temple was destroyed on account of our excessive emulation of the Gentile nations,wanting to be like them and worshiping their g-ds like them. This is the theme of the second Aliyah which is read on the morning of Tisha BeAv.
This by itself fails to explain the innermost relationship with the Torah reading.
The word VoEschanan is said to be one of the words for prayer . It literally means “and I pleaded for Grace”. This means that Moshe had no illusion that his faults were serious. However, since G-D is compassionate perhaps G-D would agree to let Moshe just enter
The Land .
Nonetheless one wonders why Moshe wasn’t more forceful. After all ,
Moshe suffered on account of the Beney Yisroel and was exiled because of his defense of an individual slave . For his efforts Moshe was almost executed and had to be exiled for 68 years according to
Rashi. After all the attacks and embarrassments Moshe received fron the common folk , they are going to enter the Promised Land. Moshe who got them there and agonized and suffered for them so that they could survive ,won’t be able to go!
It doesn’t seem fair! Why didn’t Moshe demand to go by right ?
After his first questioning of G-D’ s ways Moshe learned that G-D was beyond understanding. If by the Divive Judgement he deserved to be denied access , then he couldn’t demand . Rather he pleaded for mercy ! Mercy can trump Justice as it shows a higher level of relationship.
Moshe’s faults weren’t sins in the usual sense . For Moshe would never violate G-D’s rules . The only reason for his early demise and
Burial in the exile have to do with the people not Moshe himself.
Only because the new generation could not relate to Moshe and his level of holiness , did he have to be replaced with Yehoshua.
In that case Moshe asked that even though the judgement was that Moshe could not lead , Moshe was willing to take a secondary position as long as he could merit to do the Mitzvos of Eretz Yisrael.
In the world of G-D, Kindness can overlook sin but cannot tolerate it .
Justice can wipe out sin by punishing it . Only Mercy can tolerate sin and transform it. Moshe was asking for the toleration of his faults so that he could enter the Land . Even though Justice demanded that he had finished his task and what wasn’t completed could be done by another , Moshe argued that his usefulness as a leader wasn’t the only criteria.
Rather, Moshe argued , that he could serve as a stabilizing force and inspiration so that the People of Israel would fulfill their mission in the Land sooner and insure that G-D’s purpose in the world could be met sooner.
G-D answered that although it would be easier for the common folk to obey the Mitzvos if Moshe were still alive, nonetheless a Mitzvoh done out Choice was the superior and desired preference. In other words G-D removed Moshe in order that we serve out of choice not tradition, out of self commitment rather than adherence to family
Practice.
Had Moshe lived on , our fulfillment of the Torah would be suspect if we really meant it. This is the meaning of G-d removed me for your sake in the second verse of the Torah Reading. The usual translation of Vayisabayr means “and He became angry upon me for your sake”.
I believe it means “He transposed me for your sake- G-D removed me, Moshe, so that your Mitzvos will be on the highest level!”
Therefore continues Moshe ,if so Shema -heed the Mitzvos because
Otherwise you will have caused my death for no purpose and you would be deemed responsible for that as well!
This week’s Torah Portion always is read during the week of Tisha BeAv which commemorates the destruction of the Bais Hamikdosh.
We have to ask ourselves ,what is the connection between the recounting of the giving of the Decalogue which are commonly called the Ten Commandments, and the destruction of the Temple?
Where in the Decalogue is there a hint for ahavas chinom - love for no reason other than kinship of each Jew for each other ?
What is the relationship if any of any of the themes of the Sidra to the destruction?
We know that the first Temple was destroyed on account of our excessive emulation of the Gentile nations,wanting to be like them and worshiping their g-ds like them. This is the theme of the second Aliyah which is read on the morning of Tisha BeAv.
This by itself fails to explain the innermost relationship with the Torah reading.
The word VoEschanan is said to be one of the words for prayer . It literally means “and I pleaded for Grace”. This means that Moshe had no illusion that his faults were serious. However, since G-D is compassionate perhaps G-D would agree to let Moshe just enter
The Land .
Nonetheless one wonders why Moshe wasn’t more forceful. After all ,
Moshe suffered on account of the Beney Yisroel and was exiled because of his defense of an individual slave . For his efforts Moshe was almost executed and had to be exiled for 68 years according to
Rashi. After all the attacks and embarrassments Moshe received fron the common folk , they are going to enter the Promised Land. Moshe who got them there and agonized and suffered for them so that they could survive ,won’t be able to go!
It doesn’t seem fair! Why didn’t Moshe demand to go by right ?
After his first questioning of G-D’ s ways Moshe learned that G-D was beyond understanding. If by the Divive Judgement he deserved to be denied access , then he couldn’t demand . Rather he pleaded for mercy ! Mercy can trump Justice as it shows a higher level of relationship.
Moshe’s faults weren’t sins in the usual sense . For Moshe would never violate G-D’s rules . The only reason for his early demise and
Burial in the exile have to do with the people not Moshe himself.
Only because the new generation could not relate to Moshe and his level of holiness , did he have to be replaced with Yehoshua.
In that case Moshe asked that even though the judgement was that Moshe could not lead , Moshe was willing to take a secondary position as long as he could merit to do the Mitzvos of Eretz Yisrael.
In the world of G-D, Kindness can overlook sin but cannot tolerate it .
Justice can wipe out sin by punishing it . Only Mercy can tolerate sin and transform it. Moshe was asking for the toleration of his faults so that he could enter the Land . Even though Justice demanded that he had finished his task and what wasn’t completed could be done by another , Moshe argued that his usefulness as a leader wasn’t the only criteria.
Rather, Moshe argued , that he could serve as a stabilizing force and inspiration so that the People of Israel would fulfill their mission in the Land sooner and insure that G-D’s purpose in the world could be met sooner.
G-D answered that although it would be easier for the common folk to obey the Mitzvos if Moshe were still alive, nonetheless a Mitzvoh done out Choice was the superior and desired preference. In other words G-D removed Moshe in order that we serve out of choice not tradition, out of self commitment rather than adherence to family
Practice.
Had Moshe lived on , our fulfillment of the Torah would be suspect if we really meant it. This is the meaning of G-d removed me for your sake in the second verse of the Torah Reading. The usual translation of Vayisabayr means “and He became angry upon me for your sake”.
I believe it means “He transposed me for your sake- G-D removed me, Moshe, so that your Mitzvos will be on the highest level!”
Therefore continues Moshe ,if so Shema -heed the Mitzvos because
Otherwise you will have caused my death for no purpose and you would be deemed responsible for that as well!
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