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The overall "mission statement" of the Mishkan can be encapsulated in the command by Hashem, "V’Asu Li Mikdash, V’Shachanti B’Tocham" – Make for me a sanctuary, and I shall dwell within it – or within you. What, exactly, does that phrase mean? I suggest that the various objects here are more than just evocative works of art to inspire or admire; they are meant to both mimic the midot of the Shechina (G-d's presence) and serve as a model for how we - every Jew - can turn our own selves into a kind of living, breathing Mishkan into which G-d and G-dliness can enthusiastically enter and dwell within.
There is the Mizbeyach, upon which the offerings were brought. This was our primary conduit for giving, and for expressing our innermost thoughts. To say, "Thank you" for the gifts and favors we enjoy, as well as, "I’m sorry," for
the failings and "fashlas" we commit. The Mizbeyach also represents the sacrifices that we may often be called upon to make, in both our personal and collective lives.
Then there is the Aron Kodesh, the repository of the Luchot-tablets, both the whole and broken sets. At times we, all of us, are Shalem, whole; at other times we are nishbar, broken. But at all times we must internalize and embody the Mitzvot engraved on those stones. We must pursue knowledge, and carry out the dictates and directives of the Divine which define our life.
Atop the Aron are the Keruvim – baby-faced angels, male and female, whose wings spread over the Aron and protect the place from which G-d’s voice emanates. The Keruvim represent innocence, purity, a lack of cynicism, and Love. If we can emulate those qualities, then we, too, can merit to hear G-d’s voice anytime we choose to listen.
Finally, there is the Menora, the Eternal Light. Its purpose was to demonstrate G-d’s eternal presence, as it burned night and day, even being lit on Shabbat. It reminds us that Hashem is always with us. The Menora also prods us to spread light wherever we go, to enlighten others and care not only for our bodies, but for our souls as well, for fire is the primary symbol of the Neshama.
While the Mishkan/Bet HaMikdash may be (temporarily) absent, each of us can ourselves become one, and in doing so, become One with Hashem.
P'ninat Mishpat Complaints about Contractor’s Work – part II
(based on ruling 83037.1 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
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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
