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Beit Midrash
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The Torah study is dedicatedin the memory of
Simha bat Hana
The Seforno explains based on the context of the p’sukim. Since the nations see our closeness with Hashem, if they will not be impressed by our wisdom, it will be a chillul Hashem (desecration of His Name). Note what impresses the nations. They hear the Torah’s statutes and see our adherence to them. The Kli Yakar points out that the nations knew they were interested only in pursuing wealth and power and realized that Bnei Yisrael were involved in the pursuit of wisdom for its own sake.
The Torah’s apparent interest that the nations be impressed with our wisdom has actually been one of the focal points of different philosophies on the proper curriculum for religious Jews. Those who believe in the importance of a secular education point to these p’sukim as mandating that we at least hold our own in science and other fields of wisdom. While centuries ago it was possible to be wise in the nations’ eyes by understanding Torah alone, now that the nations have learned wisdom, we may not lag. Those who take a "Torah only" approach can respond in one of two ways. Either the impression of the nations is secondary to the mitzva to study Torah, or the nations can see our wisdom if we delve into Torah seriously and profoundly enough.
It is also interesting to note how the chukim (laws whose reasons are not apparent) and the mishpatim (logical mitzvot) coincide. One would think that chukim would not be impressive at all. In fact, idol worshippers have plenty of chukim, and we are told to stay away from them (Vayikra 18:3). The Kli Yakar explains that it is the combination of the two areas that is so impressive. Many social and religious systems have superstitious practices. However, when the nations see how Bnei Yisrael dedicate themselves to logic, they realize that their chukim must be Divine and have hidden layers of profound substance. Many nations have systems to keep law and order, and this is a practical concern. However, the nations see that within the same system of Torah and mitzvot, the mystical is found side by side with legal, monetary systems. Thus, they realize that the logical is a matter of holiness to us, not just a pragmatic concern.
May Hashem’s wisdom shine on us through the Torah, which He gave us as a conduit for it.
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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
