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Beit Midrash
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- Chemdat Yamim
- Ein Ayah
Ein Ayah: There is a broad rule that matters of a lesser level that are part of the process of human development precede matters that are of a greater level. The idea is that the lower level is the base for the higher one and, therefore, must precede it.
Tefillin are a special covenant with Israel, a testament to their distinctiveness as a "kingdom of priests and a holy nation," as singled out by the Master of All. Therefore, the path they are to follow and the morality required of them are loftier than that which is required of all other nations and cultures. "He did not do so for all nations, and He did not inform them of the statutes" (Tehillim 147:20).
There is a level of proper behavior in the realm of human dignity and purity of characteristics, which every nation should strive for. This includes a person favoring cleanliness and rectitude in that which can be sensed and felt and in openly hating evil and iniquity. Thus, the seven Noahide Laws are geared toward that aim. In order to achieve natural morality, one does not have to have lofty spiritual aspirations. However, his body should be clean from the filth of evil that can specifically affect predators and wild pigs (a hint at the Romans).
Therefore, in order for one to ascend to the mountain of Hashem to connect to the lofty morality that relates to the elevated sanctity that is possessed in tefillin, one has to have a clean body. In other words, he is building on a base of natural morality, not polluted by bad actions and attributes, which are an abomination to a person in terms of his human image.
Once the natural physical morality is taken care of, a member of Bnei Yisrael who wants Hashem’s name to be called upon him, needs to elevate himself through the depth of lofty sanctity that is revealed by the sanctity and uniqueness of Israel. To "go up to the mountain" of lofty morality, one uses wings, which elevate the spirit of the member of the Jewish nation who already acquired physical correctness. He cannot reach a lofty spiritual level while he is significantly deficient in matters of his natural status. Rather, his ability to withstand difficulties in trying times depends on the connection between his nature and the sacred things for which he strives. The stronger and more connected his spiritual efforts are, the more he will be able to withstand the stormy sea of troubles.
Who is able to fully recognize the impact that tefillin have over him? After all, it can take us far beyond simple levels of morality and have us fly among lofty levels of spirituality. It takes someone who has completed his natural morality and then discerns that despite the good that this entails, the spirit is still waiting for so much more, namely, spiritual morality that emanates from the Torah. Such a person has a clean body and he is an owner of tefillin who also possesses wings. His physical side will not drag him down, and he will find himself to be full of strength even in dangerous times. When he comes face to face with the Roman regime, he is rightly called a possessor of wings, which are a sign of his body’s purity and cleanliness.
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
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)
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.
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
