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Beit Midrash
- Torah Portion and Tanach
- Vayikra
- Achrei Mot
My insight is that the High Priest brings forgiveness to Israel through living - through a life of holiness and public service. The High Priest blesses the people and he is aware that he bears the responsibility for their behavior and is charged with being the proper role model for his fellow priests and for all of Israel generally. It is not an easy task to live a holy life of spiritual example and leadership. We often think that sanctification of God’s name is a task that is beyond our meager talents and abilities. That is not true. The true sanctification of God’s name, the true struggle for holiness and forgiveness is accomplished in our daily living. It is accomplished in our relationship and treatment of others and in our constant struggle for personal self improvement. The other method of bringing forgiveness - that of thrusting the goat off of the cliff of Azazel.- is one of dying for a cause. Even though martyrdom has been an unfortunate staple of Jewish existence over the ages it is certainly not the preferable method of sanctification of God’s name. And as the Holocaust abundantly proved it is not necessarily a voluntary, thought out, determined personal choice. Like the goat of Azazel it is often a dumb and involuntary choice, a random choice. And even though it also brings absolution for one’s and others’ sins, it is not the true fulfillment of the human part of seeking forgiveness. Apparently the scapegoat in terms of practicality is part of our lives of Jews but we should all at least attempt to emulate the High Priest.
Rabbis in Midrash
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Sukkot Bug-Free Sukkah: Essential Halachic and Practical Schach Guide
How to inspect, clean, and store bamboo mats and palm branches to protect your mitzvah and holiday meals.
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)
