6 Lessons
God's Punishment and Comfort are our Support
Shiv'a de-Nechemta: The Philosophy of Comfort and Redemption - 4
Even in the "slap" that Hashem gives us, there is a measure of his relationship with us. This is similar to a father who might hit his son who ran into the road, because he loves him and wants him to be safe.
Rabbi Hillel Maizels
Does G-d Care About Us
Shiv'a de-Nechemta: The Philosophy of Comfort and Redemption - 5
Yeshayahu's word give the impression that G-d does not care about us and allowed the destruction to take place.
Rabbi Hillel Maizels
Hester Panim, Exile and Redeption
Shiv'a de-Nechemta: The Philosophy of Comfort and Redemption - 6
The exile was an active decisions of G-d, the result of which was a state of hester panim for the nation. Those who choose to come and live in the Land today and fulfill the prophecies of yore – merit to return to the protective gaze of Hashem Himself.
Rabbi Hillel Maizels
Rebuilding Jerusalem
Shiv'a de-Nechemta: The Philosophy of Comfort and Redemption - 3
Rebuilding Jerusalem includes: physical building of the city, the society, protection from enemies and the Davidic dynasty.
Rabbi Hillel Maizels
Kibutz Galuyot and Self Hatred
Shiv'a de-Nechemta: The Philosophy of Comfort and Redemption - 2
In the same verse, Yeshayahu talks about coming back to Israel and self hatred. This bring two opposite explanations.
Rabbi Hillel Maizels