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"Elohim" in Tanach can also refer to a human king or another powerful person, as we see in the pasuk, "Do not curse an "Elohim," and a prince in your nation do not curse" (Shemot 22:27).
The recognition and acceptance of Hashem’s Kingdom over Israel and the entire world is one of the main themes of the day of Rosh Hashana, as we say in the davening, "His Kingdom rules over all." We end the Ten Days of Repentance, which begin the year, with the words, "Hashem is the Lord," right before we blow the shofar at the end of Yom Kippur.
While there is unquestionably a tremendous difference between the kingdom of a human and that of Hashem, we do find that this time of the year is also one in which human kingdom is explored. When Shmuel, who anointed Shaul, died and Shaul was significantly weakened, the question of who was then king arose. On the one hand, it was clear to David that since he was anointed king by Shmuel, it was his turn to become king. On the other hand, Naval, who was a descendant of Chetzron, son of Peretz, and of Kalev and Miriam (or as known by her other name, Efrat), reasoned that he had the most impressive lineage in all of Israel (see Yerushalmi Sanhedrin 2:3), and he should be king. As a result of these differing appraisals of the political situation, David asked for taxes from Naval for protecting him, and Naval referred to David as one who rebelled against his master (see Shmuel I, 25). Chazal teach us, based on key words in the narrative, that the encounter, which ended with Naval’s death of "natural" causes that Hashem brought upon him, took place between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur (see Rosh Hashana 18a; the matter will be discussed in length in our upcoming sefer, Tzofnat Shmuel). The reason that David was worthy was his humility (see Tehillim 22:7) and his willingness to be a mere representative of the real King, Hashem.
While the hints in the p’sukim are not conclusive, Chazal are teaching us that the question of who merits being a human king is also one that applies during the special days between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. In order to make it to Sukkot and live under the protection of the shadow of the Divine Presence, it is necessary to first call out: "Hashem is the Lord."
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)
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
