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Beit Midrash
- Sections
- Chemdat Yamim
- Ein Ayah
Spacing in the Vineyard
(condensed from Ein Ayah, Shabbat 2:248)
Ein Ayah: It is possible to build an all-encompassing "structure" by means of a great, internal center that dwells in the midst of the nation. This center should unite all of the scattered powers that make up the overall resources of the collective.
When a single center has great strength, then the strengths of individuals throughout the nation are not afforded independent recognition. Their position depends on their relative significance within the setting of the center. However, when the center ceases to function, then the nation has to find a place for the contributions of important individuals, each one within his own realm and with his own impact on the intellectual development of the nation.
Yavneh was established after the setting of the light from Zion [i.e., the destruction of the Holy Temple] and the displacement of the main national center from Yerushalayim (may it be rebuilt soon), where it was founded. When the Temple existed, it was not important to recognize the relative position of one source of leadership to another. Only in Yavneh, which was a makeshift center, was it necessary to talk of a vineyard, consisting of row after row. It had to be set up with certain "spacing" so that one "plant not harm the growth of its neighboring plant."
Rather they should be set up in a way that they complement each other and form "one vineyard." This is with parallel rows that do not cross each other. Each scholar who had an approach to the implementation of Torah in national life continued on a consistent path that was uniquely his. By the unification of all of these powers, good things emerge, which create desirable fruit which bring joy to Hashem and to people. "On that day, sing about it: ‘It is a vineyard that produces wine’" (Yeshaya 27:2)
The Complementary Triumvirate
(condensed from Ein Ayah, Shabbat 2:249)
Ein Ayah: The general paths which operate within the nation can be separated into three main elements, in regard to their point of focus and character, while their overall purpose is one.
One path is the foundation of action, which relates to the greatness of practical Torah, as halacha shapes people’s actions. The second path is the foundation of the emotion, which can be elevating to one’s personality. It is connected to the philosophical/moral part of Torah, which is related to emotion and also guides one in setting his behavior. The third and highest level is the loftiest intellectual side, tapping into the purest divine wisdom
According to the goal set by the leaders of the generation, so will many matters come about, in people’s actions, their feelings, customs, viewpoints, and imagination. The three great rabbis of Kerem B’Yavneh, with their completeness joining together, in the rows of the vineyard, came at the time they were most needed, when the centralization that the Beit Hamikdash represented was broken. Thus, it was necessary for the representatives of different outlooks to come together and provide a broad model for national success.
Rabbi Yehuda was the pillar of the Torah of practical halacha, which is why we follow him in his halachic disagreements with his colleagues (Eiruvin 46b). Rabbi Elazar ben Rabbi Yossi was the expert in philosophical/aggadic matters, and whenever he speaks on such matters, one should listen carefully. Rabbi Shimon was the master of deep Torah secrets, who knew things that Hashem shared with only a select few G-d-fearers. The wisdom he taught brought special light to the House of Israel.
Various Rabbis
Various Rabbis including those of of Yeshivat Bet El, such as Rabbi Chaim Katz, Rabbi Binyamin Bamberger and Rabbi Yitzchak Greenblat and others.
Moreshet Shaul Moreshet Shaul: A Crown and its Scepter – part II
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 294-5
Rabbis in Midrash
Lessons
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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.
