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The Torah study is dedicatedin the memory of
Hana Bat Haim
So we know that wealth is spiritually bad. But is it? The number and prominence of sources that consider wealth one of the greatest possible blessings is staggering. We will suffice with a few. Avraham was promised wealth if he sojourned to the unknown land (Rashi on Bereishit 12:2). One of the two consolations for 400 years of slavery was that Bnei Yisrael would leave with great riches (Bereishit 15:14). King Shlomo was rewarded for his sincerity with riches and honor (Melachim I, 3:13), the same things we ask for monthly in Birkat Hachodesh. So is wealth a blessing or a curse?
Let us answer the question with a question. Is life itself a blessing ... or perhaps a curse? Chazal (Eruvin 13b) come to the conclusion that it would have been preferable for a person had he not been created. BUT, continues the gemara, "now that he has been created, let him look into his deeds." In other words, the greatest gifts are opportunities. They can turn out to be destructive, as we are quite capable of misusing and abusing them. However, we are instructed to safeguard the gifts and concentrate on using them properly. Regarding life, the gemara gave a solution. How does one use gold and other forms of wealth to his true advantage?
Of course, one way is with the mitzva of tzedaka. If we investigate the sources we have already seen and a couple others, we can find other insights. In the aftermath of the accumulation of wealth, Bnei Yisrael formed the Golden Calf. But in the aftermath of that sin, they used their gold and silver very wisely, by building an adorned Tabernacle, through which to commune with Hashem. That, of course, was a wise use of the opportunity presented by masses of precious metals. Revisiting Brit Bein Habetarim (Bereishit 15:14), we can suggest as follows. Bnei Yisrael were to be enslaved for 400 years and then emerge with riches. Part of the need for those riches was to raise their self-image. They were no longer weak slaves; they were suddenly a rich nation, whose oppressors were decimated, as they emerged with endless opportunities. Notice the aforementioned connections between riches and honor. Wealth can also provide one with the stature, independence, and self-confidence to lead. It is even good for a kohen gadol and dayan to be well-off so that they can possess these leadership aids (see Ketubot 105b).
Life’s blessings (including life itself) give a person the opportunity to act in positive and negative ways. Whether rich or poor, we are all blessed in many ways. Let us choose life and use the opportunities prudently.
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
