Judaism, Lessons, Times

Sukkot - Commemorating What?

In the midrash we find three explanations for this mitzva.

Sukkot, Emunah & Cherophobia: Solving the Fears of Happiness

Sukkot is the climax of agricultural success, but also brings with it the anxiety & nervousness regarding the upcoming season. The Sukkah represents the clouds which precede the rainy season, & are the time when God judges us regarding rain. Cherophobia is a common problem where happiness & accomplishment are accompanied by fear: After I've achieved my goals, there's a feeling of emptiness- What do I do now?!". Also, we ask like Kohelet, "Why am I still not happy?!". There's also the fear that I may lose or someone will take away what I've achieved. Also the fear "what if people reveal that I'm really not so talented?". Sukkot are termed in kabbala: "The Shade of Emuna", that only God has absolute success, & only He can provide security regarding past & future.

Sukkot stories

"Rabbi Alnekaveh told a story he heard once from an etrog-seller who used to bring Rav Eliyahu etrogim to check: "It is well-known that Rab Eliyahu could look at an etrog for mere seconds and immediately discern its advantages and defects..."

Parashat “Shema” and Parashat “Vehaya Im Shamoa”

Parashiot Shema Israel and Vehaya im shamoa contain the indispensable principles of the special nature of living in the Land of Israel. Therefore, Moshe teaches the people of Israel these Parashiot at the threshold of The Promised Land.

COMPARE AND CONSIDER

Rabbi Stewart Weiss

For more Articles

Daily Times in Jerusalem

24 Tevet 5785 | 24/1/2025

Daily Times | more times

06:35 Sunrise
8:37 Kriyat Shma MGA
9:13 Kriyat Shma GRA
11:51 Chatzot (Midday)
17:11 Sunset
17:30 Tzet Hakochavim

Shabbat Va'era

25 Tevet 5785

Shabbat Times | Parashat Hashavua

16:31 Candle lighting
17:46 End of Shabbat
18:25 Rabeinu Tam
14:28 Tenth hour

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Daily Halacha

Maskillim

Rabbi Berel Wein

Question

I very much enjoy your tapes and books. Wanted to ask a quick question regarding the Maskillim. I remember listening to one of your tapes describing a certain Orthodox Rabbi who was a Maskill that supported the Maskillim, is that a contradiction in terms? Could a person be both a sincere Orthodox Jew and a Maskill at the same time, I always thought Maskillim, were anti-religious and supported the Enlightenment. Please let me know

Answer

The term maskil referred to "enlightened" Jews. There were many maskilim who were personally observant and not non-believers. However, the movement of Haskala itself was basically anti-religious and most of the leaders of the Haskala were anti-religious and agnostics. Best wishes. Rabbi Berel Wein

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