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But don’t think that this is a new syndrome; it’s actually been with us since, well, since we became a nation! And it’s epitomized by Yakov, the true father of our people.
Following his epic wrestling match in our sedra (famously known in sports lore as the "Tangle with the Angel") a new name is bestowed upon Yakov:
"No longer shall your name be Yakov; but rather Yisrael, for you have striven with G-d & Man, & prevailed."
Fair enough. But then, immediately after this blessing, the Torah calls Yisrael: Yakov! And he continues to be called Yakov countless more times in Tanach. And we refer to him 3 times a day (or more) in the Amida as "Yakov." In fact, while we all are known collectively as "Bnei Yisrael," the name "Yakov" does not disappear – as did the name "Avram" – so that we possess not one, but two names!
What’s going on here? Are we Yakov, Yisrael, or both?!
We know that a person’s inner essence, his soul, is indicated – if not determined – by his name; that is why the word "shem," name, forms the inside of the word "neshama." Yakov’s name literally means, "heel;" as he hung on to brother Esav’s heel at birth. But "heel" has a less than complimentary connotation. Because it is a hidden part of the body, it connects to secrecy, or subterfuge. In more common usage, it refers to one who acts in underhanded or odious fashion; a "heel" is a rather unsavory character.
Now Yakov is meant to be a man of Truth; he is the patriarch who most represents Torah, which is called Torat Emet. He even tells his mother, "Anochi ish chalak," I am straight, honest. And yet, he is continually involved in one shady deal after another: the Birthright, the switching of his wives, the abduction of Dina & massacre of Shechem, the kidnapping of Yosef.
The angel blesses him and tells him he is Yisrael," a name that contains within it the word, "Yashar," straight, forthright, decent. But Yakov will struggle all his life to come to grips with having to choose between doing that which is completely above board, & that which he deems necessary in order to survive the many challenging trials that come his way. He will aspire to be "Yisrael," but yet retain his persona of "Yakov."
To this day, we wage the very same battle that Yakov/Yisrael waged. The world has made "Jew" a pejorative term, not a compliment. We are accused of taking others’ land, of being clever, devious connivers. But we know that we have a higher pedigree; we are the prime representatives of G-d, who is ultimate Truth; we embody the noblest traits, the highest standards of morality & goodness. It is we who were chosen to reveal the light of Hashem, to set the standard for holy behavior.
Both as a People and as a nation, we are "Israel" – or at least we can, & always should be.
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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
