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Beit Midrash
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The Torah study is dedicatedin the memory of
Asher Ben Haim
Although the Torah seems to state that the mitzva applies only in Eretz Yisrael, Chazal cite an oral tradition that it applies outside the Land, as well (Kiddushin 37a). The simple question is that if this is the case, why does the Torah write the mitzva in a way that implies that it is only in Eretz Yisrael. This is not so difficult according to the Rambam (Ma’achalot Asurot 10:15) who rules that the laws of the fourth year apply only in Eretz Yisrael. To relate to that element, the Torah introduces the matter with mention of the Land. Even according to others, there are clear indications that the nature of the mitzva in its essence is primarily related to Eretz Yisrael, even though many of its laws are "borrowed" to apply abroad. The Ohr Hachayim stresses that the pasuk indicates a series of mitzvot involving Eretz Yisrael: a mitzva to enter the Land; a mitzva to improve it by planting trees; and a mitzva to follow the subsequent laws of orlah.
According to the Ohr Hachayim, we have a new perspective on the concept of planting trees, one that the laws of orlah foster. In Eretz Yisrael, one plants a fruit tree, not just in order to eat its fruit as soon as possible. Rather, one plants a tree so that the Land can become more productive. In the long-term, if one owns productive land, it is also worthwhile. In the year of Shemitta, for example, one may not sow the land, but existing trees continue to give off fruit that people can and should eat. In general, sometimes things that are the slowest in bringing returns give the greatest returns over time.
The phenomenon of orlah also ties one to the Land. When one plants something that he knows will not benefit him for at least three years, it means that he must believe in his chances to remain there. Either that, or he sees the value of preparing the Land for his offspring to draw the benefit (see Ta’anit 23a).
I suggest that that our readers take a good look at Rav Yisraeli’s words in the Moreshet Shaul section. The pioneering generations of modern Israel did a lot of planting and "sowing with tears" with the belief that Hashem mercifully brought us here as part of a process of redemption, which will flower into mature fruit. Let us pray that the fruit will ripen as quickly and fully as possible, so that we can eat the fruit before Hashem.
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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.
Chukat "HOW ENTEBBE STOLE THE BICENTENNIAL
The Difference Between Historic & Eternal"
As we approach America's 250th birthday, it's worth remembering her 200th Bicentennial birthday, on Jul. 4th 1976, when Israel "stole the show" by shocking the world & miraculously saving 101 hostages in a foreign continent. As Pres. As Pres. Trump decides which countries get priority in his new Middle-East, it's worth reminding him of the difference between historic events and eternally historic ones. This obviously connects with this week's parsha, as well!
Kuzari -Rabbi Ari Shvat Kuzari class 6 - The Parable of the King of India
The advantages of testimony over circumstantial evidence or philosophical speculation.
Kuzari -Rabbi Ari Shvat Kuzari class 5- "Proofs of G-d"
This may be the most important class of the entire book, where we finally get to the Jewish proof of the existence of G-d and truth of the Torah. We should follow His own direction where He tells us how to get to Him: through the Nation of Israel: Jewish history, Jewish prophets (and today, prophecies fulfilled), and national reward & punishment towards Am Yisrael.
Ein Aya One Humanity, One Creator, One Jerusalem
Rav Kook innovatively and beautifully explains this aggadeta where our sages say that after Jerusalem was destroyed her cinnamon fragrance is only found locked in a particular kingdom's treasury.
