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Beit Midrash
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The Torah study is dedicatedin the memory of
Asher Ben Haim
The gemara (Shabbat 55a) discusses the fact that the z’chut (merit of the) avot wore off (there is a dispute as to when). Tosafot points out that even so, the brit (covenant of the) avot does not run out, and it is that which we rely upon. What is the difference between z’chut avot and brit avot?
A brit does not depend on merit but stems from an innate connection begun by those who form the covenant, which continues on almost regardless of the future generations’ characteristics. Based on such a covenant, the prophet can proclaim: "Your nation are all righteous, forever will they inherit the land" (Yeshaya 60:21). This connectedness was at the heart of the brit bein habetrim which Hashem made with Avram specifically in Chevron, during his first stay in the Land. The move to Eretz Yisrael at that time had been based on a deep inner connection between Avram and the Land, rather than of a result of a Divine decree that he should move there.
Z’chut develops as a result of an accumulation of proper utilization of free will causing a surplus of spiritual credit, if you will. However, Bnei Yisrael can lose credit and can actually go into deficit. The symbol of the result of choices is Yerushalayim, the object of the many references to "the place that Hashem shall choose." Avraham’s life in Eretz Yisrael revolved around the locations and models of Yerushalayim and Chevron. These represent, respectively, the special innate connection that reached a pinnacle at brit bein habetarim and the successful passing of many tests thrown Avraham’s way, culminating in akeidat Yitzchak. King David also possessed these two elements, starting as king in Chevron and moving to Yerushalayim.
Avraham paved the way for all future generations of offspring. There are those who came to Eretz Yisrael because of the innate, almost subconscious Jewish connection to the Land. Others came out of a realization that Hashem wants us to do so and a choice to follow Hashem’s wishes. Let us hope that more will take either approach and seize the opportunity to actualize the z’chut avot and brit avot.
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Kuzari -Rabbi Ari Shvat Kuzari class 5- "Proofs of G-d"
This may be the most important class of the entire book, where we finally get to the Jewish proof of the existence of G-d and truth of the Torah. We should follow His own direction where He tells us how to get to Him: through the Nation of Israel: Jewish history, Jewish prophets (and today, prophecies fulfilled), and national reward & punishment towards Am Yisrael.
Ein Aya One Humanity, One Creator, One Jerusalem
Rav Kook innovatively and beautifully explains this aggadeta where our sages say that after Jerusalem was destroyed her cinnamon fragrance is only found locked in a particular kingdom's treasury.
Shlach Lecha "Why So Many Don't Make Aliya?" - Parshat Shlach
This short article deals with the weird phenomena that every single time Am Yisrael is meant to enter the Land of Israel, throughout the Tanach, 2nd Temple and until today, they "chicken out" and look for excuses. What's the problem with this mitzvah that proves so challenging. The article, based on sources, suggests that the difficulties of Eretz Yisrael is precisely her secret and beauty!
Kuzari -Rabbi Ari Shvat Kuzari class 4
The class deals with Islam and how the Muslim tries convincing the King of the Khazars, and why he was also rejected.
Beha'alotcha JEWISH STATE= GUIDE TO G-DLINESS & SELFLESSNESS
A Jewish State not only is a good idea, but educates us towards selflessness, altruism and G-dliness in our daily lives.
Ein Aya In Zion Even the Smoke of the Bark is Sweet
Just as Jewish nationalism is different from others, so too our capitol of Jerusalem is totally different than other national capitols. Rav Kook beautifully explains the passage in the Talmud that the trees of Yerushalayim were cinnamon trees.
Kuzari -Rabbi Ari Shvat Kuzari class 3
The second speaker invited to convince the Khazar King is the Christian, who presents their beliefs. Even before the questions of the King, "between the lines", the author R. Yehuda HaLevi already begins disproving them.
Ein Aya "Intimacy: Love, Life & Giving or Egocentric Taking & Expiration"
Today, many confuse between intimacy in marriage, based on love, giving and life which are diametrically opposed to empty "sex", pornography and prostitution which destroyed the Beit HaMikdash. The practical importance of clarifying this topic in today's western society is obvious, especially for young adults.