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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.
Chemdat Yamim Moreshet Shaul: Twin Foundations
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 690
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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)
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)
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
D'varim Judaism’s Social Vision
Re’eh
Giving is more than an act of generosity—it is an essential part of human dignity that belongs to everyone, rich and poor alike. The ultimate goal of help is to empower others to stand on their own.
Kuzari -Rabbi Ari Shvat Kuzari class 9 - "Seeing is Believing" (parag. 21-30)
These paragraphs elaborate on the theme that seeing and knowing is better than any attempt to prove logically, and begins explaining the difference between Israel and gentiles.
