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Beit Midrash
In moments of crisis, there is a temptation to get sucked into apocalyptic and pessimistic predictions. Part of developing resilience is the ability to recognize realistic hope amidst the darkness. Believing in God is not naïve or banging one's head against the wall, but identifying a broad trend that advances the world despite terrible crises. Many now quote Churchill, who anticipated "blood, sweat, and tears" for the British people at the beginning of World War II, but we also must remember that at the same time, he also predicted an optimistic and realistic scenario for the continuation of the war (US intervention, stretching Germany's resources beyond its capabilities, etc.).
We pray for national courage to make this war the last; however, it is also worthwhile to mentally prepare for a slower scenario: the war in the south will be difficult, but in the end, Hamas will be defeated; and even if Israel cannot completely clean up Gaza, the southern front will remain quiet for a period of time that will allow the State of Israel to better prepare for the next round. It is unclear whether the northern front will erupt into a region-wide campaign, but even if it does, Israel, backed by the United States, will be able to withstand it, even if at a heavy price.
In any case, the post-war State of Israel will have an infinitely stronger national identity than before the war. Any government that is formed will place security at the top of the list of priorities, and the neglected preparation for external and internal threats will be addressed in a more appropriate manner and with broad consensus. And there are also future developments that could fundamentally change the next campaign (laser, etc.). At the same time, the economic prosperity and demographic and cultural processes in the State of Israel will continue to intensify: social cohesion, increasing Jewish and national identity, acceleration of the integration of the ultra-Orthodox sector, etc.
The Arab and Muslim world is also not made of one entity; many hope for the fall of Iran (which itself is in the midst of internal turmoil), and trends such as the Abraham Accords and rapprochement with Saudi Arabia will eventually push back the Palestinian problem. Sharpening Israel's stance as a defender against radical Islam will strengthen the Western world's conservative consciousness against progressiveness. In the end, it is important to remember that military, economic, technological, and also - moral - superiority are still in the hands of the forces of good in the world. We must not forget this.
No one can predict the future with certainty, things may happen this way or otherwise, but part of the perspective of belief is to recognize that time does not only work against us but also – and most importantly – it works in our favor.
The bad will pass.
The good will prevail.
With the help of God
Rabbi Haggai Lundin
Articles about Hanukkah The Triumph of Israeli Renewal over Greek Stagnation
From "Megged Yerachim" published by "Beit Harav"
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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.
