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- Articles about Hanukkah
A mitzvah, divine commandment, is likened to a lamp, and the Torah is likened to its light. The commandment to light the Chanukah lamp is unique, and, in the words of the Rambam, "it is very dear." This is because it is a divine commandment that hints at the Torah - the light of the Torah. The Sages say: A lamp provides light temporarily, but the Torah illuminates forever. And the Chanukah lamp, according to the Sages, is a divine commandment that symbolizes wisdom and Torah.
Explaining the words, "When you kindle the lamps" (Numbers 8:2), the Sages say: Aaron was downcast because he did not offer any sacrifices in the dedication of the Altar. Then God consoled him, saying, "Your participation will be greater than theirs, for you will light and trim the lamps."
The Ramban explains: Aaron was promised that his kindling would be a matter that continued for generations, not a temporary practice, and this is the idea behind the expression "Torah is light." In the words of the Midrash, "Aaron's lamps are dearer to me than the stars in the sky," for these lamps are a manifestation of the light of the Torah. The manifestations wrought through the Torah are greater than the constellations, greater than the sun and the moon.
Psalms 19 says, "For the Leader, a Psalm of David: The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows His handiwork," and following this it says, "The Law of the Lord is perfect, restoring the soul." On the face of things, the latter verse seems out of place. The chapter deals with the glory of God revealed via the sky and its numerous legions. Why, then, do we have this verse about the flawlessness of the Torah in the middle of the chapter? The Meiri and Ibn Ezra explain that this verse is meant to teach us that although the sun, the moon, and the stars illuminate and unveil the presence of God, the Torah is above even them. The perfect Torah testifies to God's greatness more than any other aspect of creation.
The more we cling to the Torah and those who teach it, the more we merit seeing existence as it truly is, no imitations and no uncertainties. May God help us all to be among those who ascend the rungs of sanctity, Amen.
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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.
