Parashat Hashavua: On the Giving of the Torah, Light, Time, and Place

“Do Not Disregard the Practices of One’s Mother”

Ideas from 5704 (1944) – Harav Shaul Yisraeli – from Siach Shaul, p. 368-9

Conversion and the Giving of the Torah

Migdal Eider, the First Yeshiva in Gush Etzion

The prophet Micha prophesized about a rejuvenation of the nation in Eretz Yisrael, boding good things for Zion and for a nearby place called Migdal Eider.

Yehuda and Dan – Who Leads and to Where?

Lift and Count

The period of time between Pesach and Shavuot is one of uplifting. Historically, the Jewish nation went from the lowly level of 49 “gates” of impurity in Egypt to 49 “gates” of sanctity, leading to the giving of the Torah at Sinai. So too in each generation, this time is available for uplifting experiences.

From Brit Bein Hab’tarim and Kriat Yam Suf to Yom Yerushalayim and Shavuot

In previous years we dealt with the haftara of Parashat Naso and the meaning of Shimshon marrying Plishti women. We explained that this action was a declaration of independence from Plishti domination. We proved from a number of phrases that the entire episode regarding these marriages was connected to leadership and governance. Around the time of Shavuot, let us remember that the story of Ruth also deals with the question of why we were subdued under the rule of the Plishtim for hundreds of years until the days of King David. David was the first leader to declare Jewish independence on a national level.

A Basic Right

Kin’ah – Good or Bad?

Who Listens to Whom?

Kohanim - Conduit of Peaceful Communication

Parashat Naso

Who Blesses the Blessers?

Parashat Naso

When Second Place is First-Rate

Parashat Naso

The Nazir’s Sacrifice

Parashat Naso