6 Lessons

The Israeli State and Goverment Regarding the Consensual Acceptance of Judges
On the biblical verse, “These are the laws that you must set before (the Israelites),” the Gemara states, “‘Before them’ - but not before the nations; ‘before them’ - but not before unordained judges.”

Various Subjects Homosexuality - Sickness or Sanctioned?
Part of society classifies homosexuals and lesbians as mentally disturbed, while others consider them perfectly healthy individuals who happen to possess unusual desires. Torah ethics considers such behavioral tendencies the sickest of evils.

Understanding Circumstances Israeli Rule: A Mitzvah
"When I reflect on the extreme loyalty to the Land of Israel displayed by the religious-Zionist camp, I cannot help but ask myself: 'What is its source? Does it spring from a sense of religious obligation, or is it the fruit of nationalism?' "

Understanding Circumstances The Rabbis' Obligation to Speak Up
Is it even conceivable that Torah leaders be told not to voice their opinion on questions which effect so significantly the future of the nation? Not only are rabbis permitted to voice the opinion of the Torah, they are obligated.

Leadership National Honor
The whole concept of Jewish national pride must be totally reconstructed. True, our Sages teach that a person should "flee from honor," but this is said in reference to personal honor. Israel's national honor must be staunchly protected.

The Torah vs. Public Issues Torah and Politics - "The King's Second Torah Scroll"
When Rabbi Tzvi Yehudah Kook, zt"l, was asked his opinion regarding the involvement of rabbis in politics, he answered as follows: "Rabbis are obligated by the Torah to involve themselves in politics..."