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In discussing Avshalom’s death and his own preparation for it, the root natzov is found three times in one pasuk (Shmuel II, 18:18) and once in the previous pasuk. The main context is in Avshalom’s erecting a matzeva, which most translate (see Rashi ad loc.) as a monument for himself called Yad Avshalom. The Radak explains that it was a grave which had a conspicuous headstone serving as a monument. We prefer to go in the direction suggested by the Targum Yonatan, that it was a kamata, which is the type of matzeva discussed by the Torah – a large stone which was once used for service of Hashem for libations of wine or oil. Matzevot became forbidden when they were adopted as part of the service of idolatry. The Sifrei (Shoftim 144) pointed out that such matzevot had been permitted at the time of the patriarchs only to become forbidden by the time the Torah had been given.
We have explained in the past that Avshalom had fomented the emotions of the people against David, who, in advancing the plan to build the Beit Hamikdash had thereby set into motion the prohibiting of sacrificing on private and local bamot (altars). It is possible that along the same lines, Avshalom had opposed the limiting of possibilities to serve Hashem by means of such once-beloved actions as libations on matzevot. In other words, he championed the idea of pluralism and individuality in the service of Hashem. For that reason, Avshalom erected a matzeva in a prominent place around Yerushalayim to attract those who wanted to use it in their individual manner of service of Hashem. Thus, this matzeva was not a monument or grave for Avshalom but was a statement of his support of ritual liberalism based on past practice. This summed up his life mission as a ben sorer u’moreh – by rebelling against his father, David, and his Father in the Heaven, who gave the Torah with all of its instructions and restrictions.
Let us pray that in our generation we will witness the full return of the Divine Presence, as represented by the root natzov and occurring in the merit of the unity of Klal Yisrael. We should not need to resort to manipulations of the divine desire like Avshalom promoted in order to excite the people who seek to serve Hashem.
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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
