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In general, the navi is talking about a redemption that would be carried out by Tzemach (as mentioned early in the prophecy- 3:8) and Zerubavel (4:6). We will take a look at some of the motifs in these p’sukim to see contrasts between this redemption, symbolized by the lights and that which the Hasmonaeans carried out. The classical commentators, including Rashi, identify Tzemach (which means flourishing) as another name for Zerubavel, who was a descendant of the Davidic dynasty. Let us recall that many Jewish thinkers, along with the praises for the initial actions of the Hasmonaeans, criticized them for usurping permanent leadership, which should have been in the hands of David’s descendants.
The stress in Zecharia’s prophecy is on flourishing specifically in the spiritual realm. The most poignant statement of this concept is the pasuk "not with an army and not with strength, but with My spirit, said Hashem, Lord of Hosts." There are also metaphorical allusions in this direction. The menorah and the olives that provide the fuel for the menorah and which are found on its two sides all hint to the concept of wisdom and spirituality in Jewish lore. In contrast, at the time of the Hasmonaeans, prophecy did not return and we do not have historical indications of spiritual improvement.
Zecharia’s prophecy foresees a liberation that ushers in an era of peace and tranquility, in which people live "under their grape vines and fig trees." This is reminiscent of Shlomo’s rule, not David’s, which included much "army and strength." The Hasmonaean period experienced almost uninterrupted fighting, not only against the Greeks but also within national factions and within the ruling family.
As these significant differences indicate that the story of Chanuka is not what the prophet was referring to, why did the Rabbis choose it as Chanuka’s haftara? Certainly, the political change that the Hasmonaean victory ushered in deserves marking. As the Rambam stresses, "the Hasmonaean kohanim... saved Israel, appointed a king from the kohanim, and kingdom returned to Israel for more than 200 years" (Megilla V’Chanuka 3:1). However, it is important to remember that the desire for redemption does not end there, but there must be a yearning for a rule of "justice and charity" as existed under David, founder of the ultimate dynasty (Shmuel II 8:15). The Temple, from which prophecy flows, must be rebuilt, and the whole nation must cling to spirituality as all live in peace in the Land.
In our days too, in our much awaited State, which adopted the menorah with the olive branches on two sides as its symbol, it is important to remember toward what we are striving.
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)
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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.
