6 Lessons
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.”
Rabbi Zalman Baruch Melamed | 5764
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.
Rabbi Zalman Baruch Melamed | Shvat, 5753
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?' "
Rabbi Zalman Baruch Melamed | 18th Sivan, 5753
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.
Rabbi Zalman Baruch Melamed | 4th Shvat, 5763
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.
Rabbi Zalman Baruch Melamed | 6th Tevet, 5753