YeshivaThe torah world Gateway
Beit Midrash
- Sections
- Small and Sweet Ideas
The Hebrew Bible and Rabbinical literature contain numerous references to Joy in connection with complete devotion and sincere subjection of our free will and conduct to Avodat Hashem (divine worship of G-d and observance of the Torah Mitzvot or commandments).
Maimonides
Rambam (Maimonides or Rabbi Moshe Ben Maimon) DOES MENTION JOY SPECIFICALLY IN CONNECTION WITH SUCCOTH, chapter 8, Halakha 15, as quoted by Rabbi Yoel Liberman (yeshiva.org).
He also quotes sources that state that a person may even make a fool of himself in the process of over-joy for the sake of the Torah. For example, King David mightily danced in front of the Holy Ark and Sefer Torah, upon their return to Jerusalem (Samuel II 6:14), as he appeared to make a fool of himself (so to speak).
For not being happy in good heart when keeping the Torah commandments, the Torah prescribes curses and punishments, as quoted in Devarim Deuteronomy 28:45-47:
Raneinu Bechaye Ibn Pekuda
Raneinu Bechaye Ibn Pekuda [RBIP], a giant rabbinical scholar and philosopher, 11th century, Spain, writes in his monumental magnum opus book - Duties of the Heart (Chovot Halevavot), source: Aspklaria, an online Jewish Alphabetical reference):
A person should keep away from pure physical joy that leads to over-indulgence in physical pleasure which could lead to sin, and he should not rejoice in the misfortune of others, or be depressed.
The latter could be detrimental to his health as melancholy could dry his bones (see Mishlei Proverbs 17:5 & 22). According to RBIP; the joy involved in fulfilling a Mitzva (Torah commandment) brings about a reward GREATER than the reward for fulfilling the Mitzva itself! This is truly amazing.
Shulchan Arukh
While Shulchan Arukh (codified Jewish law) does not mention being happy as a specific positive Torah commandment, indirectly it does so, because being happy contributes to good health, as mentioned above.
Our tradition of Simcha
According to the sages, in particular Chassidic teaching; excessive rejoicing on Purim and Succoth, for the sake of the Torah, has an immense power to atone for and convert our transgressions to merits.
Simchat Torah (rejoicing with the Torah) at the end of Succoth is a uniquely momentous occasion, which we should all grasp, to merit another wonderful year in health, wealth and happiness, and hasten our final redemption.
Such moment of true divine joy should remain with us for the rest of the year.
Selective sources about being joyful
Devarim Deuteronomy 12:7-12, Psalms 2:11, 35:27, 97:11-12, 100:2, and 113:9.
Rabbis in Midrash
Lessons
fast navigation
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)
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)
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
D'varim Judaism’s Social Vision
Re’eh
Giving is more than an act of generosity—it is an essential part of human dignity that belongs to everyone, rich and poor alike. The ultimate goal of help is to empower others to stand on their own.
