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Inbal bat Alon
However, a second, deeper look shows that the patriarchs did not just act as individuals. Most of their interactions were with monarchs and noblemen of their time, and they often interacted with them as leaders in their own right. Avraham engaged in a long discourse with Paroh in Egypt and emerged with the upper hand (Bereishit 12). Later on he took part in the struggle of nine of the leading kings of the time in a major world war. In its aftermath, he had discussions with the King of S’dom and Malkitzedek, the King of Shalem (Bereishit 14). Avraham continued his "diplomacy" with Avimelech, the King of G’rar. Yitzchak interacted prominently with Avimemlech, King of P’lishtim. Yaakov negotiated with Chamor, "the prince of the land," and in his old age was an honored guest of Paroh, king of the world’s only superpower.
There are signs of nobility in regard to the matriarchs, as well. Just look at their names. Sarah’s name can be translated as "nobility," and her sister as "queen." She is described as the gevira, a term used elsewhere in Tanach for the king’s mother or wife (see Melachim I, 11:19; II, 29:2; Yirmiya 29:2 and more). The midrash tells us that Hagar was the daughter of Paroh, who decided that it was worthwhile for her to serve as a servant in the house of Avraham and Sarah. A lesser-known midrash states that Avimelech likewise sent his daughter to them (Bereishit Rabba 45). The simple reading of the Torah also indicates that Keturah, who married Avraham in his old age, was a princess, whose descendants went on to be princes of different tribes. The fact that Avraham was able to wage war with a force of over 300 soldiers is a sign that his entire entourage must have been in the thousands, as the Rambam (Avodah Zara 1:3) states. Based on all of these indications, we see that when the people of Chet refer to Avraham as a "prince of G-d" in our midst, it was not simply flattery, but a reflection of Avraham’s local and even international status. et us pray that we will merit having leaders who can act as the princes of our past, the righteous patriarchs and matriarchs, did.
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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)
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.
