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The older of the two, Yissachar, became the symbol for generations of one who earned the "crown of Torah." It is no surprise that in the section that deals with the gifts presented by the tribal leaders for the Mishkan, the leader of Yissachar was the second to bring his offerings. He followed right after Yehuda, the overall leader of the nation. The Midrash states that it was Yissachar’s excellence in Torah study that gave them this distinction (Sifrei Zuta 7). This greatness of Yissachar, which is only hinted at in the Torah, finds explicit mention in the Ketuvim: "From the sons of Yissachar, those who know wisdom of the times …" (Divrei Hayamim I 12:33). The midrash comments that this refers to "200 heads of Sanhedrin who came from the tribe of Yissachar" (Bereishit Rabba, Vayechi 99).
The Torah gives the following hint at the relationship between the tribes of the two brothers: "To Zevulun he [Moshe] said: Be happy, Zevulun, as you go out, and Yissachar in your tents" (Devarim 33:8). Chazal tell us (Bereishit Rabba ibid.) that Zevulun used to be involved in commerce and feed Yissachar. Ostensibly, Yissachar was involved in tzura (form, spirituality), which we consider most important, while Zevulun was involved in chomer (material matters), which is just a means at enabling the more important matters. However, looking at the blessings, both of Yaakov (Bereishit 49:13-14) and of Moshe (Devarim 33:18), we notice that Zevulun is mentioned first, even though Yissachar is older. Why?
The greatness of Yissachar can cause possible negative outcomes. One is that the lofty status of Torah scholars (sometimes referred to as kings – see Gittin 62a) can cause haughtiness. The other is that Yissachar may think that Zevulun needs him (for virtue) and he does not need Zevulun. Yissachar’s job is to close himself in quarters where he can concentrate on his studies and this can cause separation from people, which can be problematic in addition to being useful.
Yaakov and Moshe came to say that despite the importance of their holy activities, Yissachar must remember not to be haughty and not to overly separate themselves. "Despite your greatness, Yissachar, there are areas in which you are number two to Zevulun."
Shai Agnon’s short story, "Yissachar and Zevulun" demonstrates in his incisive mode of expression, how the two found each other in Gan Eden. There they found that Yissachar’s tally of Torah study virtues was less than he had thought and that the tally of Zevulun was greater than he thought. In any case, both were virtuous and complemented each other out for the betterment of the nation.
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)
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)
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)
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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)
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)
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
D'varim Judaism’s Social Vision
Re’eh
Giving is more than an act of generosity—it is an essential part of human dignity that belongs to everyone, rich and poor alike. The ultimate goal of help is to empower others to stand on their own.
Kuzari -Rabbi Ari Shvat Kuzari class 9 - "Seeing is Believing" (parag. 21-30)
These paragraphs elaborate on the theme that seeing and knowing is better than any attempt to prove logically, and begins explaining the difference between Israel and gentiles.
