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In light of the confusion among the public, especially regarding the youth in Israel, about how to view the non-Jewish population [in Israel], it is proper that rabbis should dedicate significant thought to clarifying the matter from the perspective of Jewish Philosophy. There is a need to set a "golden mean" on the matter. On the one hand, distance should be drawn between Israel, the chosen nation, who are "sons to Hashem," which places upon them special obligations, which are as least as great as the privileges, [and the gentile communities]. On the other hand, there is a need to act with respect and appreciation toward [non-Jewish] neighbors, who, when they act properly toward us, have the right to be treated with the respect due to those who deserve it because they were created in the image of Hashem. This concept finds expression in the halacha of ger toshav (a non-Jew who does not convert to Judaism but formally accepts certain precepts and enjoys limited rights within the Jewish community; the halachic construct does not exist in our times); we are commanded to help them live and thrive.
The religious community in Israel was once again put to the test in the elections for the Knesset, which was forced upon us before its set time, and unfortunately, we did not succeed. Our public representatives appeared divided and lacking the proper standing, and they did not succeed in drawing all those who attend batei knesset. We are embarrassed and ashamed as a group, when the clear majority of our populace rallied around parties who do not include the "name of Heaven" on their banners. The religious parties are thus relegated to appearing as satellites, dependent on the good will of the big parties. It is particularly upsetting and tormenting that the stature of the Religious Zionist community has deteriorated. Why has it dropped drastically? After all, the idea that exists at the foundation of religious Zionism is the one that was triumphant in practice, and the infrastructure of all that exists from a religious perspective is the fruit of the investment and the toil of this group. So why has the circle of its adherents dwindled?
Also, what is the reason that some, including important people within our segment of society, have decided to appear politically separately from the rest? They did not succeed as they imagined they might, but did "succeed" in increasing the fragmentation of the "camp"? Why did we not come up with the internal strength to overcome this evil inclination to fragmentize at a time like this, when the holiest values of Judaism are in danger?
All of these are piercing questions. Perhaps these upcoming days of teshuva (the month of Elul and the High Holy Days), with their special prayers, and the dawning of a new year, will help us shake off all the dust and dirt that has clung to us. May we return to the "reliable approach" of adding to the honor of Hashem and returning the crown to its past glory. May we be written and inscribed all together for a good and successful year, a year in which the stature of Israel and the Torah will be raised in the Land that makes us special and is our glory.
Moreshet Shaul (48)
Various Rabbis
41 - MORESHET SHAUL: TWO ELEMENTS TO WORK ON – PART III
42 - MORESHET SHAUL: OVERVIEW OF THE RAMBAM’S APPROACH
43 - MORESHET SHAUL: THE STUDY OF CHUMASH
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Moreshet Shaul Moreshet Shaul: Spiritual Self-Improvement – part II
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 405-7 (from the 1930s
Moreshet Shaul Moreshet Shaul: Addresses to Students at Kfar Haroeh (1942, 1944)
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 238
Rabbis in Midrash
Lessons
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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)
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.
