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The Torah study is dedicatedin the memory of
Asher Ben Haim
The Shemot version of Shabbat focuses on the religious, belief-based element of the mitzva. We declare our belief that Hashem created the world. Our parasha’s version stresses the national element, commemorating our emergence from servitude to independence. Rashi cites the Mechilta that the two versions were miraculously said and heard simultaneously. It follows that the religious element and the national one form a single, inseparable entity.
Another mitzva in our parasha, tefillin, highlights the concept of meshing the religious and national motifs. There are two kinds of tefillin, that of the arm and that of the head. Tefillin of the arm is placed near the heart and is preferably kept covered. In that way, it serves as a sign of the personal connection between man and his Master. In contrast, the tefillin of the head demonstrates publicly the connection between Bnei Yisrael and Hashem on a national level. Chazal tell us that the pasuk, "All the nations of the land will see that the name of Hashem is called upon you, and they will fear you," is a reference to those tefillin that are worn proudly on the top of the head (Berachot 6a).
The halachot of tefillin are instructive in demonstrating the nature of these two elements. As with Shabbat, the two tefillin form a harmonious unit, as one is supposed to have both on together. Indeed, one is supposed to be aware of both his personal, spiritual obligation and his national one. But, if need be, either tefillin can be worn alone, for example, if one has an injury to either arm or head that precludes putting them on that part. It is also possible to have only a personal element or only a national one. However, one should realize that either situation (i.e. exile or lack of fulfillment of mitzvot) is an unhealthy one. In fact, the halacha is that when makes an interruption between placing the two tefillin on, it is a sin that makes one unsuitable to take part in the war effort of Bnei Yisrael (Menachot 35b), which requires a healthy synthesis.
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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)
