Yom Haatzmaut

"FIRST 'THE NATIONS WILL SAY: 'G-D DID GREAT FOR [ISRAEL]' "

We don't always understand and sometimes Israel pays a price for being the closest nation to Hashem, but that is essentially part of our role. Rav Kook explains just like the prophets often suffered for saying uncomfortable G-dly messages, similarly Am Yisrael historically had to pay the prices as "the conscience of mankind", and the way Hashem is seen to the world. Recently, more and more gentile leaders are beginning to point out the unique and "Chosen" role of Israel, including a game-changing article by an editor of a leading British paper.

"NOT ALL HATE IS CREATED EQUAL"- p. Tazria-Metzora

The parsha teaches the tragedy of being alone and separate, but our 2,000 year galut is exactly that. Because of the universality of anti-Semitism, we unfortunately sometimes tend to make simplistic associations, & lump all this hatred together, as if it's the same. Yes, Iran hates us like the Nazis did, but today's war on all accounts is totally different, and we must thank G-d on Yom HaAtzma'ut for all those differences.

The Yom HaZIKARON SIREN- EVERY ARROW NEEDS A HEAD!

What do we and should we think about during the national siren in Israel on Yom HaZikaron? What is the significance, and what are the spiritual benefits and messages of Yom haZikaron? What are those who miss this experience missing out on? (see also my class here on "Wars & Selflessness", and the entire series of Orot HaMilchama of Rav Kook)

Nearing "the day that is completely Shabbat"

How did Rabbi Alfiya know when the Independence of the nation of Israel will come 20 years older?

11. Shaving, Haircuts, Weddings, and Tahanun

Chapter 4: Yom Ha-atzma’ut

Do the customs of mourning that we observe during the omer period apply to Yom Ha-atzma’ut? Responses to this question have varied greatly.

10. Yom Yerushalayim

Chapter 4: Yom Yerushalayim

All the holy places in Judea and Samaria – most significantly the Old City of Jerusalem and the Temple Mount – were liberated, along with the Sinai Peninsula and the Golan.

9. Celebrating Yom Ha-atzma’ut on a Different Date

Chapter 4: Yom Ha-atzma’ut

When Yom Ha-atzma’ut falls out on a Friday or Shabbat, there is good reason for concern that the celebrations and ceremonies will cause public desecration of Shabbat.

8. She-hecheyanu and Hallel at Night

Chapter 4: Yom Ha-atzma’ut

Some maintain that the salvation of Yom Ha-atzma’ut is similar to that of the Exodus from Egypt, and thus we must recite Hallel at night.