The Land of Israel

What's so special about the land of Israel? Why should we make Aliya?

The land of Israel has always posed a problem for the Jewish people. On one hand, it is and always has been our national homeland. On the other hand, the record of the Jewish people in the land of Israel, and their behavior and attitudes, has often been a spotty one.

What brocha should I recite before eating a donut? Does it make a difference whether it is an American-style, hole-in-the-middle donut or an Israeli-style jelly donut? Must I separate challah from the donuts I am frying for Chanukah? I just purchased a donut shop that is quite distant from any Jewish community. Must I make sure that challah is taken?

The entire Torah is full of teachings about the value of Eretz Yisrael. One who engages in Torah must view the Land as very precious, and the striving to be in Eretz Israel must fill his entire heart.