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This answer, in some ways, raises more difficult questions than it resolves. What does it mean that the omniscient Hashem changed His mind? We therefore cited the S'fat Emet's explanation: ideas should arise based on din, without considering the challenges raised by a world of physicality. One must aspire for the ideal. When it comes to carrying matters out, the attribute of mercy must be factored in, in order that the matter can be maintained.
We also mentioned that the first description represents the approach of Beit Shammai, while the latter is in line with that of Beit Hillel. Let us now demonstrate from a different perspective, why we generally accept Beit Hillel's rulings.
We have just begun to pray for rain by mentioning the strength of Hashem's rain giving power. We will soon (in Israel) add the request for rain. Water is a "life sustainer." All sorts of organisms need H2O, including the crown of creation, man. Water on earth is described twice in the parasha. The great bodies of water are all connected at one level to form the oceans and seas, which sounds like a harmonious ideal. There is a second reference to a river that separates into four "heads." The number four in Jewish thought hints at multiplicity and differentiation, which seems regrettable. However, the water of the oceans cannot sustain human life as long as they remain salty, whereas rivers provide us with our fresh water supply.
The separation of the four symbolizes the reality that there will be splits among people, including in their approaches to things. We need not strive to remove differences of opinion. Allowing other opinions is not giving in but is a sign of hitchashvut, of considering the rights and needs of others, which is a strength. Indeed, the gemara (Eruvin 13b) says that the opinion of Beit Hillel was accepted because they were humble and would present the view of Beit Shammai before their own. This consideration is higher than the Beit Shammai approach of attempting to reach the ideal. Both approaches are divrei Elokim chayim, they both have a prominent place in the world, but the world must run on the Beit Hillel approach.
We will remind ourselves that both Beit Shammai and Beit Hillel believed in social interaction and unity between them and, despite their disagreements, made sure that their different rulings, including on matters of family and personal status, would not prevent the daughters of one from marrying the sons of the other (Eiduyot 4:8).
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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
