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Beit Midrash
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Rav Shimshon Raphael Hirsch points out that korbanot are described as brought for and before Hashem (the main Name, Yud-Keh-Vuv-Keh). The Name of Elokim is never used in this context. As we know, the former represents the more merciful side of Hashem, whereas the latter represents His side of din (strict judgment). He explains that Hashem did not introduce the korbanot to demand that which is coming to Him but to present an opportunity. A person brings forth an object that relates to him and presents it toward Hashem in a manner that represents the person’s desire to himself draw closer to Him.
The first of the korbanot presented in Sefer Vayikra, where the personal korbanot are listed and the rules and categories are taught, is described as follows: "Should a person bring forth from amongst you a korban to Hashem" (Vayikra 1:2). It is appropriate and telling that this is referring to a korban nedava (voluntary) (Rashi, based on Torat Kohanim ad loc.). After all, the whole concept starts with the desire that one draw close to Hashem, and this is accomplished best when one does so in a voluntary manner.
The Torah continues (ibid. 3): "To the opening of the Tent of Meeting shall he bring it forth, according to his will." On the one hand, the Torah seems to cling to the idea of volunteerism and personal desire. However, the gemara (Arachin 21a) says that it is actually referring to forcing the person to bring the korban that he accepted. In order to be able to reconcile coercion with "his will," the gemara explains that we force him until he declares that it is his will. The gemara (Bava Batra 48a, although the idea is usually quoted from the Rambam, who expounds slightly) explains that a person wants to do the right thing and the coercion helps him combat those elements that are keeping him away from doing so.
The picture we receive of this entire korban process is the following. The point of the korban is for it to be an expression of one’s desire for closeness to Hashem. As such, there is little point of doing it as a technical act that does not capture a person’s sincerity. Nevertheless, while such a matter can start as one’s own voluntary idea, it cannot remain voluntary forever. Once he becomes obligated, it is enforceable. Yet, the desire to go through with the korban is a basic truth that relates to a person’s inner nature, which we can assume yearns to cling to Hashem (Tehillim 42:3). One needs to know that when he makes the promise to bring a korban, it will be done according to the strict rules that apply and that his promise will not be dismissed easily.
Rabbis in Midrash
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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.
Ein Aya Various Universal Stages of the Geula Process
Rav Kook examines the various stages of redemption, explaining how (in addition to the obvious oft-mentioned stages of ingathering the exiles, reviving the Hebrew language, army, state etc.) the messianic dream of world prosperity, the State of Israel and world unity can and are realistically and logically gradually coming true.
Kuzari -Rabbi Ari Shvat Kuzari class 8- "Answering Questions on the Kuzari's Proof from Mass Revelation
How do we know that the "claim" of mass revelation to 2,000,000 witnesses at Mt. Sinai is really true? This important class answers all of the questions skeptics ask about this claim of the Kuzari.
Ein Aya Armies Still Necessary for Balance & the War Against Wars
Rav Kook explains why the world was originally divided into the various seemingly contradicting ideologies and cultures, in order to develop each one respectively. Swords or armies symbolize how each respective ideology defends themselves, as well as deters their opposing ideologies and cultures. On the other hand, the messianic era will be one of peace, and Rav Kook explains the transition to that stage, which mankind is already undergoing.
The Land of Israel LGBT'S IN ISRAEL
The question was asked, how can one make Aliyah with the LGBT parades?
Kuzari -Rabbi Ari Shvat Kuzari class 7 - Five Accumulative Proofs of G-d
As a preparation for the Kuzari's classic proof of G-d from the mass-revelation at Sinai, we start here with 5 other directions to strengthen our belief which also contribute to what the Kuzari will present as well.
Ein Aya Muscle & Meaning: The Dual Nature of Gevurah (Physical Strength)
Is physical strength and fitness a necessity or an ideal? Although it if often totally overlooked among topics of Judaism, Rav Kook writes that it clearly is also a necessity to deter the many enemies of Israel, but even in Y'mot HaMashiach, in the Messianic era, to a certain extent, it's ideal continues even after our enemies will have been finished off.
