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Beit Midrash
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- Chemdat Yamim
- Parashat Hashavua
Commentators disagree as to the audience this section is addressed to. The Ibn Ezra sees it as a continuation of instructions to the kohanim, arguing that the content applies primarily to them and that no statement addresses the matter to the whole nation. However, Chazal saw at least the last p’sukim as the source for the prohibition for all Jews not to desecrate Hashem and, to the contrary, to be willing to give their lives rather than publicly violate the Torah (see Rashi to 23:32; Sefer Hachinuch 296).
Let us explore other indications to the latter approach. The kriat hatorah on one of the days of Pesach and Sukkot consists of our parasha’s discussion of the moadim. Yet, it starts with the p’sukim in question, after skipping the lengthy section addressed to the kohanim. In regard to content, not only the words "I will be sanctified in the midst of Bnei Yisrael" but also the idea that we should do so because Hashem took us out of Egypt seem addressed to the entire nation, not the kohanim specifically.
Finally, let’s look at the introduction to the p’sukim to see if the Torah labels the recipient. The entire section that is clearly addressed to kohanim is broken up into pieces that start with lines like "Speak to Aharon and his sons" or "Speak to the kohanim." In contrast, the p’sukim in question begin with the standard opening of "Vayedaber Hashem el Moshe leimor." On one hand this seems like a strong indication that the addressee is no longer the kohanim but all of Bnei Yisrael, the Torah’s standard audience. On the other hand, the Ibn Ezra says that from the fact that there is not an explicit reference to "Speak to the Sons of Israel" as the next section (moadim) has, we can infer that the audience has not changed from the kohanim.
When considering the ambiguous nature of the introductory statement, one can’t help but consider that the ambiguity is intentional and turns the section into a bridge of sorts. The message is apparently as follows. Just as kohanim have special responsibilities and obligations because of the special status they hold within the nation, so too are there elements of all Jews’ behavior that stem from the fact that, vis a vis the nations of the world, we are to be "a kingdom of priests and a holy nation." In this context, we must at times go beyond the normal rules and be willing to sacrifice our lives because our high status demands this of us.
P'ninat Mishpat Complaints about Contractor’s Work – part II
(based on ruling 83037.1 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
Chemdat Yamim Moreshet Shaul: The Goal of an Agricultural Yeshiva – part I
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the laying of the cornerstone of the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh)
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Shoftim TESHUVA IN COURT OF LAW?
Parshat Shoftim-Chodesh Elul
Why does parshat Shoftim always come out during Elul? This innovative and central explanation is an eye-opener regarding many aspects of Judaism.
The Month of Elul TESHUVA IS THE ANSWER
The month of Elul serves as a vital time for self-reflection and personal accountability to prepare for true repentance.
P'ninat Mishpat P'ninat Mishpat: Realtor’s Fee on Large Commercial Building – part I
(based on ruling 85031 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
(based on ruling 85031 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
P'ninat Mishpat Complaints about Contractor’s Work – part II
(based on ruling 83037.1 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
(based on ruling 83037.1 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
Chemdat Yamim Moreshet Shaul: The Goal of an Agricultural Yeshiva – part I
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the laying of the cornerstone of the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh)
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the laying of the cornerstone of the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh)
Chemdat Yamim The Goal of an Agricultural Yeshiva – part II
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the cornerstone laying for the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh – 1938)
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the cornerstone laying for the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh – 1938)
Re'e NEVER EXTREME EXCEPT ISRAEL
Parshat Re'eh
Judaism is against extremism, so how can we understand the seemingly extreme statements found in our sages in favor of living in the Land of Israel and against living in Chutz laAretz? The article deals with the seeming contradiction between the strength of Free-Will and the strength of being influenced by our surroundings.
Ekev DANCE FOR ISRAEL- FOR YOUR BENEFIT
Parshat Eikev
Description: The 7 Haftarot we read after Tisha B'Av ("Shiva D'Nichemta") surely get us excited that they're coming TRUE, and awaken us to yearn, dance & join the return to Zion! The short article also deals with the problems and solutions facing the American Jewish community as discussed at a recent panel, as well as the question why Jews come from America to Israel to help when we face problems, but Israelis don't come to aid Jews in America when they face anti-Semitism.
P'ninat Mishpat P'ninat Mishpat: Complaints about Contractor’s Work – part II
(based on ruling 83037.1 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
(based on ruling 83037.1 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
Chemdat Yamim Moreshet Shaul: Twin Foundations
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 690
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 690
