Complaining... Badly.

"ויהי העם כמתאוננים רע באזני ד'..."

[במדבר יא:א]

"And there were those in the nation who were complaining badly in the ears of Hashem…"

[Bamidbar 11:1]

 

One would almost think that there is such a thing as complaining, but not badly. What was the great sin of the complainers ?

They complained of the travails of the journey. They had had three straight days of travelling and that was too much.

There is a saying – "You can answer a question, but you can't pacify a complaint". The entire mentality of a complaint is beyond the realm of logical reasons. That is because the complainer doesn't want an answer – they want to demonstrate their just displeasure.

So we see that a complaint against G-d is a horrible thing – it essentially negates the good that G-d does for us and brands the complainer as a total ingrate. But why does the passuk specify that this was a bad complaint – is there such a thing as a good one?

Yes !

Earlier in the parasha we saw the "complaint" of those who were impure and couldn't bring a korban pesach. They came before Moshe and said "Why should we be left out?" Essentially, they were complaining that there was this statute that forbade them from serving G-d – "It's not fair!"

But this complaint is good – because it doesn't negate our obligations to Hashem, rather, it emphasizes them. And Hashem recognizes this. That's why in response to the pesach complaint – Hashem created a holiday ( Pesach take two ).

So whenever we feel the need to "complain" to Hashem – try to take a step back and analyze the complaint – is it good ?

Hatzlacha !!

He's Got Our Back

The Ribbonno Shel Olam is constntantly taking care of us.

This is never more evident than when He wants to give something. When a man bestows a gift upon another - he is simply concerned that the gift be appropriate and well received. There is no way for a person to follow up and make sure that the gift is acctually having the desired effect of making the recipient's life better. 

Hashem, however, is different. When He grants us the "triple blessing" of the kohanim - Hashem actually, subtely, doubles each bracha.

"יברכך ד' וישמרך" - Hashem will give you blessing, but He will also guard you to ensure that that blessing is not taken from you.

"יאר ד' פניו אליך ויחנך" - Hashem will shine His presence upon you - all your actions will be blessed by a divine seal, but He will also grant you grace so that others do not feel your blessed actions are ill deserved.

"ישא ד' פניו אליך וישם לך שלום"

Hashem will show you favoritism, but He will also grant you peace so that others who are not shown this favoritism are not alienated by it and do not hold it against you.

May we be zocheh to see the doubling of all berachos in our lives - and may we hear these berachos echiing in the halls of the beis hamikdash, bimhaira beyameynu, amen.

Hatzlacha !!

A Healthy Kabbalas HaTorah

Chazal learn from the pesukim [Shemos 20:15 & Shemos 19:8] that there were no sick or disabled Jews at Har Sinai, rather they were all cured.

Why ?

Was Hashem going to prevent the Jews from ever falling pray to these things in the future ? No. So why not get us used to things as they will be instead of creating an artificial haven ? If we will be responsible for keeping the Torah under these conditions – shouldn't we also receive the Torah under them as well ?

No.

I can't receive the Torah bogged down by illness or cluttered by preconceived notions – I must accept it as a tabula rasa, a clean slate.

If I see the Torah as a band aid to solve my problems, as an all purpose "Dear Abby" -  then when the going is smooth I would feel justified in ignoring it completely (Chas VeShalom !)

I must realize that while the Torah holds solutions to all of life's little problems and has priceless guidance to offer on coping with all of the difficulties that come up – that is not its primary purpose. The Torah is there to teach us what to do and how to serve Hashem, especially when things are going right !

This Shavuos, let's not look for how the Torah can fix our lives – let's plan our lives around the Torah and in this zechus may we merit to see the centrality of the Torah in our tragedy and sickness free lives, amen.

Hatzlacha !!

The Greatest Trail

To paraphrase a great quote – it's not what the view looks like from the top that counts, but how you climb the trail that really matters.

As anyone remembers from the last time they stirred off the couch or the computer chair to hike a trail or a mountain climb – there is a certain thrill, a proprietary feeling of accomplishment and possession when we finish or reach the top. The view just wouldn’t be the same if we hadn't sweated our way up there.

Why ?

Because a view that is given to you with no effort represents just a minute of your time – "look, here is a minute – isn't it beautiful ?! OK, let's move on …". A view that you have been climbing towards for an hour is that much greater because it encapsulates all that investiture. And for several hours or even days – all the more so.

But, the thrill and nachas of the accomplishment fade. Even the greatest peaks in our toil still gradually move to the background of our consciousness. What makes the longest lasting impression ? The effort itself.

This also distinguishes the 'men from the boys'. The lesser person will push himself solely for the goal – and may often as not find that it does not live up to his demanding expectations. The greater pursuant – he will give it his all, not just because he wants to finish, but also because he sees the effort as a worthwhile endeavor in and of itself. The true measure of the person becomes, not the ability to attain the goal, but rather – the affection they feel for the effort. The lesser one will hate every step – seeing it as a cumbersome toll to be grudgingly given. The greater one will cherish the effort itself – understanding that the effort and goal are a package deal.

This is the meaning of Rashi's comment ( from the Medrash ) "If you shall walk in My laws [Vayikra 26:3] – this is referring to toil in Torah study".

When we recognize that the trail to Torah knowledge and observance has the most breathtaking summit – we become true devotees, not only of the peaks – but of the grueling trail all along the way.

Hatzlacha !!

Broken Boxes

The service of the lechem hapanim, or show breads, is described in the end of the Parasha [Vayikra 24:5-9]. When describing what the loaves looked like, Rashi tells us [commenting on Shemos 25:29] that they were similar to a box or crate with two of it's sides broken open – resembling a loaf that has two 'faces' that seem to peer in each direction.

Why use an analogy of a broken item to describe the holy loaves of temple sacrifice ? Could we not have figured out a different, more respectful way to refer to them ? And how, exactly, are we to understand the sharp contrast this forms with the mizbeach, whose animal sacrifices had to be perfect and without blemish. Or even the Menorah, whose oil was to be the purest of the pure ?

Rashi, it seems, is emphasizing an important aspect of the lesson we are meant to derive from the lechem hapanim.

The lechem hapanim symbolized the ability to serve Hashem through wealth. As the gemara states [Bava Basra 25b] "One who wishes to become wealthy should focus his prayers on the north" ( because the Shulchan was in the North of the Mishkan).

If it represents monetary wealth, what exactly is the shulchan doing in the mishkan to begin with ? Well, there are many ways to serve G-d, it is easy to serve out of poverty – for if you voluntarily accept poverty in your dedication then you must be doing it for G-d. But we are left in confusion as to the nature of service through wealth – do I just acquire money and pay a lip service ? Do I employ a righteous zeal and attempt to amass great wealth in the name of G-d ?

We can perhaps compare serving Hashem through wealth with serving Hashem by eating, in much the same way that divine service through poverty is akin to fasting. What does 'eating for G-d' mean ? It means that I acknowledge that G-d is the source of all of this bounty (the easy part), and I only indulge for the sole purpose of experiencing His beneficence so that I might praise Him more devotedly (The difficult part).

Now we understand the challenge the Shulchan presents – but our clarity still falls short regarding the analogy of the lechem hapanim to broken boxes.

While service through wealth is difficult, it is by no means impossible ( See Dovid HaMelech or Rav Yehudah HaNassi ). But this service differs in one more important way from other forms of Avodas Hashem. It is fundamentally lacking. While the prayers we say and the Torah we learn, and even the tears we cry, have an eternal quality about them and they will remain forever attached to our immortal souls; the physical wealth we amass, even in a sincere act of divine dedication, will still return to dust as our bodies do after our time on this earth is up.

So, in recognition of the value that their inherent temporariness gives these items that are used in acts of divine service Rashi connotes them as 'broken boxes'.

May we be zocheh to serve Hashem truly, with our wealth as well as our deprivation, but may we never forget the eternal nature of the purely spiritual side to our worship and the temporality of the physical one.

Hatzlacha !

Divine Service Or Stomach Service ?

BS"D

 The Torah [Vayikra 17:1-7] teaches us the prohibition of outside slaughter, bringing a sacrifice to Hashem outside of the delineated boundaries of the Mishkan. If someone were to violate this law the Torah ascribes to him an unusual appellation; murderer.

I can understand that one who transgresses a law should be considered guilty or even wicked. But how does a misplaced sacrifice make him a murderer ?! 

If we are to worship G-d, then the operative part of the relationship is our subservience to Him. That's what worship is all about. If we want to serve G-d, but on our own terms, that is unacceptable.

I remember hearing a story ( first hand ) from a Rav who came upon the hired cantor, whom he was hosting for Yom Kippur, drinking a hot cup of coffee in preparation for the 'service'. "It's for the throat," he excused himself sheepishly. Needless to say, the cantor did not lead the congregation that day.

But why a murderer ?

Someone that serves G-d on his own terms is really serving himself. If he will take the life of an animal as part of his worship scheme – what's to stop him from taking the life of a man when he believes that G-d 'calls' for it ?

Chazal also compare embarrassing someone to killing him. When we see our friend doing something inappropriate – how do we tell him ? Is our intention to shame him ? Or do we really seek to help him see and correct his mistake ?

This is contingent on the same question – if it is about me – I may want to "one-up" my friend – if it is about G-d – then my competitive feelings are totally out of place.

Let's take the lesson of the improper slaughterings and apply it, not only to our relationship with our creator – but also with our fellow creations.

Hatzlacha !!

Temporary Holiness

BS"D

Holiness is derived from abstinence. "קדש עצמך במותר לך". When one separates themselves from a given luxury or indulgence – a certain level of holiness is achieved. Yet, we are not a religion of meaningless asceticism. Dedication of a pleasure or an indulgence to a higher goal is even holier than refraining from it completely, as is evidenced by the consumption of intoxicating wine in a procedure known as "Enacting Holiness" – that is, "Kiddush". Colloquially, this can be described by the phrase – "It is harder to eat for G-d, than to fast for G-d".

So, for a week, we refrained from the more pleasing chametz in favor of the less palatable matza. This was, in addition to a commemoration of the exodus from Egypt, an act of holy abstinence. But, we have now returned to eating leavened bread. How are we to relate to our state of temporary holiness ? Was it a brief interlude from 'real life' – designed to shake us out of spiritual stagnation and then return us refreshed into our lives to resume business as usual ?

I say, no.

To view Pesach as a battery recharge would be to deny the lesson of holiness by abstinence. During Pesach we practice this holiness as we willingly forgo the tastier chametz. But in order to achieve the next level in our service of G-d – we must translate that effort into a greater holiness. If the chametz we eat in our post Pesach state is identical to the chametz we ate before, then it is nothing more than chametz she'avar alav haPesach – ( Chametz that was owned by a Jew illegally during Pesach and is therefore prohibited ). But if we manage to generate new eating procedures – whereby we dedicate ourselves and our eating to the service of G-d ( instead of our gut )  - the we have translated the temporary holiness of Pesach into a lasting one of the year 'round.

Hatzlacha !!

Some Pesach Posts can be found here :

http://prepesachprepatoryponderings.blogspot.com/

Hatzlacha !

A Spiritual All-Nighter

בס"ד

 "צו את אהרן ואת בניו לאמר זאת תורת העלה הוא העלה על מוקדה על המזבח כל הלילה עד הבקר ואש המזבח תוקד בו:"

[ויקרא ו:ב]

"Command Aharon and his sons, saying, this is the instruction for the Olah offering, this is the Olah which burns upon it's fire upon the mizbeach – all night, until the morning – and the fire of the mizbeach will be ignited upon it" [Vayikra 6:2]

If the Torah tells us that the fire must be kept burning all night – why remind us that this mes until the morning ? Surely this repetitive phrase is meant to teach us something.

Two ideas come to mind, especially in light of the obvious symbolism of the fire upon the mizbeach to the dedication we have 'burning' in our hearts in our own dedication to the service of Hashem.

First, we must realize that as difficult as it is to devote ourselves to the service of Hashem in the 'nighttime', or spiritual low, these periods always herald a bright tomorrow. There may be a time when we feel Hashem distant from us – but know, that He will be felt all the closer for our 'all-night' vigil, when the 'morning' arrives.

Second, however, is an idea that is more obligating than comforting. It's true that the 'morning' of spiritual closeness with Hashem will follow the period of difficulty we have termed 'night'. But, it is our responsibility to keep the fires of dedication burning – '…until the morning' and not even a moment less. We can't claim that since it became difficult to serve Hashem in a metaphorical night we are absolved of the responsibility – rather, we must redouble our dedication in all things spiritual and be prepared to keep at it – until the morning, until circumstances for divine service become easier.

Hatzlacha !!

Looking out for number one

בס"ד

 

When the haggaddah says that if Hashem had not redeemed us from Pharaoh's clutches then we would surely be enslaved there until today.

 

What does this mean ?! That in 2009 we would still be there ?

 

It is referring to what the redemption is all about – freeing ourselves not just from the land of Mitzrayim – but also from the tumah of mitzrayim. We would all still be enslaved to the ideology of Pharaoh in Egypt – namely self worship.

 

When and how are we guilty of this heinous sin of self worship ? Perhaps more frequently than we know.

 

What is our number one priority ? Self or Hashem ? Is doing mitzvos contingent on how I feel or what my mood is ?

 

Since this is such a slippery pit of self aggrandizement – we need constant salvation from it. So every year, no matter how wise, or how knowledgeable we are – we still repeat the story and miracles of the redemption from Egypt – because it is precisely this reminder that will serve as our booster shot – against the terrible infection of self worship.

 

May it be Hashem's will, that just as we were redeemed from bondage in Nissan – so too may we be redeemed again, and celebrate this Pesach in the hills of Yerushalayim, in the courtyard of the rebuilt temple, amen.

Hatzlacha !!

Are clothes more than just frostbite prevention ?

"ועשית בגדי קדש לאהרן אחיך לכבוד ולתפארת"

[שמות כח:ב]

"And you shall make Holy Garments for Aharon, your brother, for honor and splendor"

[Shemos 28:2]

These garments played two contradictory roles in the upcoming days. On shabbos we read how they represented the weighty and honored position of being the chief representative of the Jewish nation in their mission of attaining closeness to G-d in holiness and purity. And on purim we will read how Achashverosh wore them at his banquet of revelry to demonstrate his supremacy over the fallen Jewish nation.

A greater contrast could hardly be imagined.

Aharon, paragon of humility, actually had to be persuaded to wear the holy garments for he was wary of becoming entranced by the glitter and succumbing to the pull of haughtiness. Achashverosh, on the other hand, embraces this agenda heartily and goes on a campaign of self aggrandizement that begins when he copies the legendary throne of Shlomo Hamelech and pinnacles at his impersonation of the kohen gadol.

So do clothes make the man ? Certainly not. Rather, man either fills the shoes he's given to wear – or slides around in them looking all the more ridiculous for his attempts at impersonation.

Let us strive to be worthy carriers of our clothing – to truly embody the ideals of the bnei torah that we appear to be. And in this zchus may we merit to once again, see the Kohein Gadol in his splendor in the rebuilt Beis HaMikdash, Amen.

Hatzlacha !!

Growth and Immutability

R' Shimshon Raphael Hirsch points out that the menorah is the only one of the major vessels that contains no wood. Paradoxically, the menorah is the only vessel to resemble a growing object ( with it's trunk and branches - the menorah resembles a tree ). What can we learn from this ?

Regarding the absence of wood in the menorah, R' Hirsch comments that this is an integral fact in our understanding of the torah ( which is what the menorah's light represents ).  The torah, being Hashem's wisdom, is immutable and unchanging. It doesn't go in or out of style and is not subject to the whimsy of fads and trends. Only once we accept this truth can we move forward in our study of the torah. 

Perhaps this is why the menorah is shaped like a tree. Because once we recognize the unchanging nature of the torah, and devote ourselves to it's study - then we ourselves will embark on a journey of growth.  There is always room for development and evolution - but only with the understanding that the growth is within us - we are the ones advancing and the unchanging torah is the vehicle.

As an analogy - when I view a masterpiece from far away - it seems simple and unimpressive. The closer I look and the more expertise I develop - the more wowed I'll be. The masterpiece has not changed - I have.

May we all merit to continue to be nurtured into our own mighty and stately trees - with our roots drinking firmly from the waters of the unchanging torah.

Hatzlacha !!

Perceptions

"וגר לא תלחץ ואתם ידעתם את נפש הגר כי גרים הייתם בארץ מצרים"

[ [ספר שמות כג:ט

 "And you shall not oppress a stranger for you know the feelings of a stranger for you were strangers in the land of Egypt"

[Shemos 23:9]

 Do we need a reason or justification to observe Hashem's mitzvos ? Even more so, is it thinkable that we wouldn't e commanded in this mitzvah if we wouldn't have the negative experience of the Egyptian exile in our national past ?!

 This passuk actually comes on the heels of the warning against accepting bribes. The reason that a bribe is assur is that it will alter your perception and render you unable to distinguish wrong from right.

 The mitzvah of consideration of the ger is similar in that it makes a difference what your perception is. One who has never been a ger wouldn't necessarily feel the acute pain of the forbidden oppression. With the proper perspective however, we can feel the appropriate empathy.

 We can also use this idea to help us get through difficult times. Perhaps the reason that Hashem is sending these trials our way is so we can empathize with our fellow man when he is struck with nisayon. 

Hatzlacha !!

Happiness Redefined

"ויחד יתרו על כל הטובה אשר עשה השם לישראל אשר הצילו מיד מצרים"

ספר שמות פרק יח 

"Yisro was gladdened by all of the good that Hashem did for Israel, that He saved them from the hands of Egypt"

[Shemos 18:9]

Why was Yisro so happy that Hashem saved the Jews from the hands of Egypt, per se ? Certainly the operative function was the salvation of the oppressed - from whomever it is that is oppressing them ?! 

With this Yisro teaches us a new meaning of happiness. It isn't just about the redemption of the downtrodden and the new light and hope that is coming to them - it's also about the punishment and destruction that are the deserved lot of those who abuse their power and flout G-d's will. 

Happiness, therefore, is a sort of fulfilment - a righting of wrongs, on both sides of the equation, that sets the world back in a shape where the hand of Hashem is more clearly seen.

May we be zocheh to the ultimate happiness with the final redemption, and see all of Bnei Yisrael's - and therefore Hashem's - enemies punished swiftly and justly, bimhaira beyameinu, amen.

Hatzlacha !!

There's No Place Like Home

BS"D

 "...אל יצא איש ממקומו ביום השבת" [16:29 שמות]

 "…no man shall leave his place on the Sabbath day" [Shemos 16:29]

 This is the reason the Torah gives for the prohibition of collecting the manna on Shabbos, because we would have to leave the camp, violating the issur of tchum shabbos. Additionally, there was no need to collect, since Hashem had doubled the bounty on Friday.

 The Sefas Emes quotes from the Arizal that the word 'place' is also an allusion to Hashem, who is known as מקומו של עולם. The reason that Hashem is referred to as 'hamakom' is that everything rests on something, usually that which is beneath it, so in some way – the place where you are is what's supporting you. And what supports that ? Hashem. So in His name of 'hamakom', Hashem is the ultimate supporter.

 So it is supremely fitting that regarding Shabbos Hashem is referred to as such and that this parsha deals with the role of man's sustenance. When the Torah tells us that on Shabbos we should not go and collect the manna – it is because on Shabbos we should not leave our place. During the week we must put in our hishtadlus, effort, to receive our daily bread – on Shabbos, though, we need zero effort because we are already basking within the domain of the Sustainer of All, the 'place' upon which we all rest, Hashem.

 Let us use this upcoming Shabbos (and all subsequent ones) to appreciate and fully realize the tremendous gift that is a day spent wholly in the embrace of Hashem, a day when we are exempt from our worldly pursuits. It is a huge privilege, but also an equally august responsibility as shown by the prohibition of leaving the 'makom.' . 

Hatzlacha !!

Miserliness Is In The Eye Of The Beholder

Yosef is given a very unique beracha –

[בראשית מט:כב]"בן פורת יוסף, בן פורת עלי עין..."

"A son with charm is Yosef, a charming son who catches the eye …"[Bereishis 49:22]

This beracha is not only physical beauty (of which Yosef had in spades) but that he would have charm – or that he would be pleasing in the eyes of his beholder.

 

How did Yosef merit this ?

 

The answer is twofold. We may have thought that Yosef is given this because he himself struggles to see the positive in everyone – this would certainly conform to current ideas on charm, in which a charming person is someone who always has a ready compliment or pleasant observation. But this is clearly not the case. Yosef is entrusted with the power of pleasing sight specifically because he has demonstrated an appreciation for the other side, the negative power of sight.

 

Yosef, at the tender age of six, sees the leering looks that his uncle Esav directs at a beauty like his mother, Rochel, and immediately moves to block him. "That isn't appreciation", he thinks, "that is an appropriation" – it's as if Esav is actually violating that beauty by wanting to possess it. This is a negative application of sight.

 

The next demonstration of Yosef's sensitivity in this area comes some years later when the wife of Potifar petitions him with her amorous advances. Yosef not only refuses – but realizes that even gazing at her beauty would be a violation of the trust that his master has placed in him.

Only someone who has reached such high levels of sensitivity to the possible destructive powers of sight, and a heroic self control of the same, would be granted freedom from the dominion of these same powers.

And us ? Whether we are descendents of Yosef or not, we can all learn from his example – appreciate the harm that negative sight can bring and aspire to the extraordinary levels of shemiras einayim (guarding of the eyes) that Yosef was able to reach.

Hatzlacha !!

An Inner Fire

When fire was created on the first Motzaei Shabbos it represented a collaboration of man and G-d. Prior to sinning in Gan Eden, man would not have needed any external indicator of light - he himself would glow. But following his mistake - man was lost in the darkness - without some external light to direct him. Fire was Hashem's gift to man - because once given to him, man could recreate it at will.

There is also a subtle reminder of the metaphorical darkness that man was subject to ( following his sin and the introduction of confusion into the world ). Wherever a flame burns - it will always point upwards. In whatever state of uncertainty and lack of direction we may find ourselves - all we need do is light a candle, and it will point the way we need to turn, heavenward.

Perhaps this is why the flame, more than any other aspect of the restored temple service, was privileged to bear the miracle that would mark the holiday of Chanukah. Because in their own way, the Chashmonaim were already marching to it's light - doing what was right in the face of, and despite, all opposition. The flames of the menorah simply brought down to earth the fire that led those true to Hashem in the period of Hellenistic darkness.

May we merit to march to the light of an unwavering candle, and may the physical manifestation, the holy menorah, be relit again, speedily and in our days, amen.

Fight, Fight, Fight !

When the Torah tells us that Yaakov Avinu fought with an angel – we must ask ourselves, what was he fighting for, or against ?

The Medrash explains that this was the personal, guardian angel of Esav, whom Yaakov was due to meet in the morning. The Medrash, elaborates, however, that Esav had the distinct privilege of having as a 'guardian' angel – Samael or Satan. As to what they were fighting about – well – Samael, explains the Kli Yakar, is derived from the Aramaic word לסמא meaning to blind. Samael was attempting to blind Yaakov Avinu to the presence of G-d in this world.

How did Samael think that he could persuade a tzaddik of Yaakov's caliber that there is no G-d ? By rolling around in the dust – or the dust of Lashon Hara. When slander is used ( literal mudslinging as it were ) then we are inclined to let it's insidious influence penetrate, no matter how absurd.

So how does Yaakov emerge victorious from this encounter ? When the dawn of clarity and light comes up. And what is Samael's parting shot ? Yaakov's thigh – an allusion to his offspring. Yaakov Avinu won't fall for this ploy but of his children there will be those who do.

How can we overcome this challenge, the challenge to see the divine hand of goodness in everything despite the mudslinging of the Satan ? Like Yaakov – wait and see the dawning of a new day. Both literally and figuratively – when we experience the miracle that is renewal ( from the minutiae like a new day to the incredible like the birth of a child ) we are once again connected with the source of all renewal – The Source of All Good. Hashem.

Hatzlacha !!

Mine Mine Mine - It's All Mine !!

If there is one striking difference between the wicked Lavan and the humble Yaakov it would be this, taking credit.

After twenty years of hard labor and, arguably the first fertility clinic in the world ( for sheep ) Yaakov amasses great wealth. By his own admission, he was on call round the clock and always took responsibility for any loss. Nothing was chalked up to “normal wear and tear”. Even the proliferation of livestock, at which he worked quite diligently, he describes as having been given to him by Hashem [ see Bereishis 30:9-12]. Yaakov epitomizes the middah of realizing that all comes from Hashem.

Lavan is a stark contrast. He pays lip service to believing in Hashem ( when he clears the house of idolatry in order to host Eliezer ) and even pretends to value other peoples contributions [ see Bereishis 29:15 ]. But the real Lavan comes oozing to the surface when he chases Yaakov and Co. down after their hasty departure. He says, “Your wives - are mine, your children – mine, your wealth – mine … everything you have you got from me” [Bereishis 31:43]. What is the defining principle of Lavan’s wickedness ? Not the desire for pleasure, and not the desire for honor ( he has those in spades, though ) But the driving force behind his Lavan’ness – is him, just him. He is so self centered that the world revolves around him and all the good that happens must be because of him.

This is a powerful lesson for us as to the extent that self centeredness can reach. I can cheat my friend with impunity if all I care about is my end of the bargain. I can even worship idols – because after all the important thing is how they make me feel.

Let us take this shabbos of serious contrast between the selflessness of Yaakov and the selfishness of Lavan to look inside ourselves and chase away any semblance of egocentrism.

Hatzlacha !!

Whose Bracha Is It Anyway ?

One of the most perplexing things about the episode of the brachos that Yitzchak gives Yaakov is the seeming bit of trickery that needs to be employed by Yaakov in order to receive them.

One of Eisav’s little dishonesties was pretending to be righteous. Specifically, says the medrash, that he would garner his father’s approval by asking him nonsensical questions in halacha and misleed Yitzchak into thinking that he was scholarly and pious. Interestingly, this action is referred to by the passuk as entrapping his father with his mouth [Bereishis 25:28]. So Eisav is basically encroaching on Yaakov’s koach and using it in a fundamentally Eisav-like fashion – to lie. This is what leads Yitzchak to believe that Eisav is worthy of the brachos.

Therefore, the True and Fair Judge decrees that Yaakov should reverse this process in order to merit his father’s brachos. Yaakov uses his hands to slaughter sheep and present food to his father. The torah even emphasizes this when Yitzchak proclaims, after feeling Yaakov’s dressed up hands, “see this is my son Eisav”. Yaakov must use two of Eisav’s traits, lying and the power of the hands, to undue the cosmic damage done by his brother – and thusly merit the brachos.

Hatzlacha !!

A Blessing In Disguise ?

When Lavan sees that nothing will dissuade his sister, Rivka, from following Eliezer back to Canaan – he gives her an interesting beracha.

“May you have thousands of descendants and may your children defeat their enemies”
[Bereishis 24:60]

This is the same Lavan who will later attempt to cheat Yaakov out of 20 years worth of salaries. The same one who was so completely selfish as to chase down Eliezer just to find his money – where does he get the altruism to offer a beracha ?

Answer is – he doesn’t. Lavan’s beracha is actually a parting shot – a spiteful, hateful interjection that is perfectly in line with Lavan’s character. When Rivka is offered a ‘way out’ of her father’s ( and brother’s ) household – Lavan feels jealous and threatened – his sister should be there to do his bidding, period – and if she is to marry – let the groom come here ! When Rivka shows her determination to leave immediately Lavan attempts to sow within her mind the seeds of his own malcontent. As Rashi [ad. Loc.] points out – his beracha for the descendents was that they come from Rivka and not another wife. His ‘beracha’ – if we can still call it that – reads more like this –

“Hope you don’t play second fiddle to some other wife and that your kids don’t all die out in wars !”

Clearly, we can see Lavan has nothing but his own selfish grudges in mind.

And us ? Well – presumably we aren’t as spiteful as Lavan ( Chas VeShalom ! ) but everyone could use another perspective on their comments – before we say something – think – will it come out as we mean it ? Or will it be a ‘beracha’ that is really jealousy or pettiness in disguise ?

Hatzlacha !!

Are We The Eyes and Ears Of Hashem ?

When Hashem commands Avram to enter with Him into a covenant He changes his name as well. Avram becomes Avraham.

Rashi, quoting the gemara in nedarim [32b], points out that before the bris Avraham was lacking (control or holiness of) five limbs - two eyes, two ears and the male organ. With the bris, Avraham increased these five limbs and had to correspond with an extra "ה" in his name.

What does having a bris milah have to do with the ears and eyes ?

A bris is not just circumcision - elective surgery performed for comfort or health. A bris is a sign - a declaration that we are allied to, and servants of, Hashem.

As servants we see things differently – not just in terms of how they will affect us – but rather, how will they affect all of our interests – which are really our master's interests. We even hear things differently. What might have been a benign comment becomes a malicious slight if the honor of my Master is involved.

The challenge for us is obvious – we have one aspect of the bris milah. But have we really fixed our other limbs ? Do we see things in terms of the chillul or kiddush Hashem that they will cause ? And our ears ? When we hear of an idea or goal that is antithetical to Torah does it sound wrong ? Or perhaps, do we have to make a conscious decision that it is wrong ?

IY"H we will all affirm our covenant with Hashem to the point that what we see and what we hear will reflect not only our choice to serve G-d but also our status as current servants of Hashem.

Hatzlacha !!.

The Folly Of Man

One of the generations that are mentioned in the Torah bears the curious name of Enosh, or mankind. It was in his day, the Torah tells us, that man had begun to "call out in the name of G-d" [see Bereishis 4:26]

Why did man only now begin to pray to G-d ? Didn't Adam daven to Hashem for forgivness of his sin. Didn't Cain walk the land fasting and begging repentenence for his sin ? The passuk can certainly not be understood on a simplistic level.

Rashi says that the simple reading of the word "הוחל" as "begun" is incorrect and it should be understood rather as a term of desecration "חילול". The Targum Onkelos reads it as a beginning - a beginning of the mistaken saga of idolatry - of ascribing to helpless, worthless items power that belongs only to G-d.

Either way, it is supremely poignant to note that this occurs during the generation named for Enosh. This could be the Torah's way of telling us that this is to be a lifelong battle of the condition of mankind - the challenge to overcome typical human shortsightedness and see through to the original and supreme cause of al the occurs - Hashem.

Hatzlacha !!

Good Kvittel !

The seforim kedoshim speak about the process of judgment that occurs during the month of Tishrei. On Rosh Hashanna we are judged and on Yom Kippur the judgment is sealed. But there is still some aspect of judgment that is held over until Hoshaana Rabba. This is metaphorically referred to as a "pitka tava" or a 'good note'. The imagery being that the books of life are still out and even though your judgment has already been sealed – you can still add a postscript. Therefore, we daven for Hashem to add a favorable kvittel or note to our judgment.

According to the baalei mussar, however, the inscription in the book of life - or more correctly the book of righteous versus the book of the wicked – is not written by Hashem – but rather by ourselves. Our judgment is based on the choices we make for the future – we choose which book we want to be in – and the rest of the year is the follow up. With that in mind – how do we understand the 'kvittel' or postscript ?

Perhaps it can be understood as a page marker. When we lose our place in the book of the righteous – when we know what we want to do, overall, but have forgotten how to make that specifically happen – that is when we would need a page marker or a pointer to refocus our efforts.

On Hoshaana Raaba we take an extra bundle of five aravos and beat them against the floor. Instead of the bundle of all four species – which represent all types of Jews ( scholars, righteous and regular ) – we make a point of taking the simplest species that has no taste and bears no fruit. This statement is our 'page marker', our reminder that no matter how much we have accomplished – we should not lose focus and get carried away by images of grandeur – we should maintain proper humility which will enable us to remember our proper place and the service which we perform.

Good Kvittel !

From Whence The Kedusha Came

Why did the simchas beis hashoeva generate such a tremendous happiness ?

The water that was poured onto the mizbeach in the nisuch hamayim ceremony was poured into one of two crevices that, according to the gemara, go all the way down into the depths of the earth. Rav Pinkus, zatzal, opined that this was actually connecting the upper waters ( the rain water that turned into spring water that was drawn for the ceremony ) and the lower waters ( the depths of the earth that the libation went into ). Water is Hashem's way of granting us blessing - as the gemara in taanis says "greater is the day of rainfall than the day of the resurrection of the dead" - the upper waters and lower waters were split during creation and on Succos we reconnect them in an abundant display of Hashem' kindness - this is truly a cause for an unparalleled happiness.

Enjoy !!

Are We Now Locked Out ?

When we daven the final prayer of Yom Kippur we are cognizant of the awesome day's ending and the gates of heaven closing. That is why the tefilla is called "neilah".

The Zohar states that when we shout at the end, "Hashem Hu HaE-lokim" seven times - we are actually breaking through the seven levels of Shamayim and revealing Hashem's presence as exclusive in each one. Alternatively, the shechina, which was palpably present during Yom Kippur and all of the days of awe ( as the passuk states - "... call out to Him when He is near" - those are the aseres ymei teshuva ) is actually retreating into the higher spheres which are its usual domain.

I remember reading in one of the "seforim kedoshim" ( meaning some holy book, the identity of which has long escaped my memory ) that when Hashem locks the gates at the end of Neilah - he is not locking us out - on the contrary ! All that retreating into the heavens is actually just a 'hook' that pulls us with Him ! Hashem may be locking the doors but He is locking us in ! That is why our very next holiday is described as us sitting in the shade of He in Whom We Believe.

May we merit a clear understanding and feeling of being "locked in" with the holy presence and may our entire year reflect this closeness with G-d that we have now acheived.

Hatzlacha !!

The Dangers of Quick Fix Teshuva.

When someone repents there can be many motivations – why am I suddenly doing what's right as opposed to what's wrong ? Among the most classic motives for bettering yourself is suffering, travails – all sorts of negative experiences that 'provoke' us into cleaning up our act. If G-d was not displeased with me, we reason, He would not have made me suffer so. Therefore, since I have clear recognition – or at least clear intention to avoid this suffering in the future – I repent.

In describing such a cycle, the passuk tells us : "And my anger will flare up at them on that day, and I shall leave them and hide My face from them – and they will be consumed [by their troubles] and many evils will find them – and on that day he will say 'behold, it is because my G-d is not in my midst [because I have sinned and turned away from Him] that these calamities have befallen me" [Devarim 31:17]

So why does Hashem proclaim in the next passuk, after man has recognized his sin, that he will then "hide his face" from him and more tragedy will befall him ?

The commentaries offer several possible answers. I would like to offer the following : Just because man has come to recognize deficiencies in his relationship to his creator doesn't mean he's corrected them – on the contrary – he is likely to settle back and congratulate himself for not being blinded by worldliness and physicality. In fact, this 'recognition' is far from the solution to his spiritual demise – it is an exacerbation ! That's why Hashem heaps punishment further upon him – because he has deluded himself that he is already on the road to betterment when he is really firmly entrenched in stagnation.

How can we avoid this faux teshuva ? Pitfalls await at every turn – especially for such a lofty goal as repentance. Our recourses are two : Firstly, be wary of the 'quick fix' teshuva, don't be lulled into a sense that once you've decided to clean up your act you are on G-d's good list – you're not , not yet - at least not until you begin to follow through. Secondly, pray. Pray a lot. Ask Hashem for assistance, not only in returning to him but also in making that return something deep and meaningful and real – not just superficial and perfunctory.

With Hashem's help, may we all merit to see our errors and only then begin the real work of correcting them and ourselves and being the kind of Jews we can be.

Gmar Chasima Tova to all and …

Hatzlacha !!

Turnabout IS fair play !

So why do we blow 100 blasts ? To confuse the Satan. [see Gemara Rosh HaShanna 16b]

How exactly do we confuse the master of confusion himself ? After all, we don't intend to sin - usually. It's just that the satan manages to sufficiently befuddle our mind. He weaves promises of success, redemption or salvation that seem more real to us at the time of the sin than the real promises that Hashem has given us if we do his commandments - that's why we sinned in the first place ! So how do we turn the tables on him ?

By charging down the door of the courtroom.

When we have done wrong, the last thing we are anxious to do is get called on it. We are guilty - why suffer through the ignonimity of being reprimanded. It's not like a court case where I believe I can win - in those I'll be eager to get there - to see justice done ( my justice, of course ). But here, I am guilty - so, no hurry, I know what's coming - a reprimand that will usually leave me speechless. I have no defense.

It is specifically this head-hanging, shamefaced posture that the Satan ( who is also G-d's DA and chief prosecuter ) loves to exploit. He'll grandstand and proclaim your guilt, and what's worse, your attempts at evasion of justice. But if we charge down the courtroom door - if we summon the crowds and bang the gavel ourselves ( the blowing of the shofar resembles both ) the Satan is left without his great speech. And Hashem is able to listen to the angel for the defense and judge us favorably.

May we all merit a favorable judgment and have a year filled with only blessing and sweetness in our service of G-D, Amen.

Hatzlacha !!

New and Improved Or The Same Great Taste You Remember ?

In life, we sometimes want it all. New, improved, exciting – not like all that old worn out stuff. Or maybe we are tired of gimmicks and promises. We want reliability, the same classic quality that you can depend on. Perhaps we really want them both ?

When Moshe tells the Jewish people that they are "Nitzavim" standing rigidly and unbendingly before G-d – what does he hint at ? How is this supposed to be a positive reassurance ? Isn't it a negative thing to be stagnant ? Why would I want to know that I am standing in the same place that I was before – shouldn't I always be moving onwards and upwards ?

The answer is no.

We really need both. To be mobile and fluid, and to be rock-solid. The reliability of staid and ancient – right alongside the flexibility and refreshed spirits of the new and original.
When we feel like things in this communications driven world may be spinning too fast and we have no anchor – realize that we are still Nitzavim, still standing in the same place we always are, in the presence of – and in covenant with – Hashem.

The Big Picture

ספר דברים פרק כו : טו
השקיפה ממעון קדשך מן השמים וברך את עמך את ישראל ואת האדמה אשר נתתה לנו כאשר נשבעת לאבתינו ארץ זבת חלב ודבש:

רבינו בחיי על דברים פרק כו: טו
וכן דרשו רז"ל אמר ר' חנינא בר פפא בוא וראה כמה גדול כחן של מתנות עניים, שכל השקיפה שבתורה לרעה וכאן לברכה:

In the final capstone of the formula we say when we declare our Maaser obligations all paid up, we implore Hashem to gaze down from the heavens and send blessing to us and our land. Chazal point out that the term "hashkifa" or gaze is never found in the torah in a positive framework, other than now. The fact that we now ask Hashem to gaze down upon us shows us the positive power of tzedaka ( because we have just gotten finished declaring that we have given all of our maaser – to poor people who deserved it ).

Why does Hashem's 'gaze' indicate divine displeasure or punishment, and how exactly does tzedaka change that ?

When we refer to gazing down – we are talking about the 'big picture', the overview – a kind of analysis of how a society is doing, in a general sense. This is the term used by the Torah when it describes the condemnation of Sodom [see Bereshis 19:28]. This is also the term used to describe Hashem's gaze onto the Egyptian war camp before He kills them all in the Yam Suf [see Shemos 14:24]. In both these cases, any individual acts were overlooked in favor of the ‘big picture,’ the general state of affairs. The people of Sodom were killed because they collectively promoted a society of selfishness and cruelty – not because of the actions of each one (even though their individual actions were indeed cruel and selfish). The same holds true for the Egyptians – we even see that they the individuals had differing levels of culpability and that's why they died at different rates in the waters [see Shemos 15:5 and Rashi ad loc.] – but the common denominator was their participation in the oppressive society – and that was sufficient to condemn them all to death.

So how does tzedaka change this ? Well, in this pasuk we are referring to a very specific type of tzedaka – tzedaka on a societal scale. This isn't something I do when I feel like it – nor is it something that some do and others don't – this is a society-wide phenomenon, to make sure that those less fortunate are taken care of. Here it is specifically the wide view, the overall analysis which shows us how great this mitzva is. My apple tree may only have yielded three bushels – which translates into only a handful of apples for the needy – but if we 'gaze' down at the whole community and see that the needy can get a few apples from me and some wheat from my neighbor and some vegetables from the guy down the block …. Well, that really is powerful.

And how does that change our life ? Two ways.

One: don't discount your own small mitzvos. Don't believe that your little chassadim or your two moments of Torah ( like the amount of time you spent reading this dvar Torah ) are not very significant – au contraire ! They are actually the pinpricks of color that combine to form a beautiful canvas !

Two: learn to appreciate the small acts of kindness that others do – try to see them in a ‘mitzvah overview gaze’ and not a gaze of negativity.

Hatzlacha !!

For Whom The Gavel Pounds

The Torah enjoins us to make timely payment to any day laborer we may seek to employ [see Devarim 24:15]. If we do not, says Hashem, then the laborer in question will call out to Me and I will address the issue personally – and you will be in the wrong. We know that Hashem's courtroom does not need an initial complaint to be filed in order to mete out justice – why does the passuk stress the 'calling out' of laborer ?

Rashi, quoting the Sifri, tells us that whether or not there is a cry of helplessness, Hashem will punish the wrongdoer. If there is a cry, however, He will be quicker to punish.

This still leaves us in a quandary ! The laborer's cry is still a factor in deciding Hashem's justice – isn't He objective and fair ?

Perhaps we may say that there is an objective factor in all this. When you withhold money from it's rightful owner – you are in violation of a monetary law. If you cause your fellow man any pain, however, you are in violation of the principles of compassion – which we are obligated to keep with no less stringency than the principles of monetary ownership.

So if the laborer cries out – we have hurt him to a greater degree than if he does not. It is only just and fitting that Hashem should seek to redress this issue sooner – for it isn't just about money – rather it is also about the well being of one of His children – and that takes the highest priority.

In these days of personal improvement and introspection we are constantly on the lookout for an 'edge' – what will give us the ability to really do teshuva ? Perhaps we need to increase our awareness of our fellow man – not just a consideration for his possessions but also for how his feelings are affected by our actions.

Hatzlacha !!

Sons To The Heavenly Father

The prohibition against self mutilation ( a common mourning practice in ancient times ) comes with the following introduction : "You are children to Hashem, your G-d, do not cut yourselves ..." [Devarim 14:1]

Obviously, this special familial relationship is intended to give us some background depth into the prohibition.

Rashi, quoting chazal, tells us that princes and princesses should never be in a state of dishevelment - and that this is the equivalent for us.

The Ramban offers an explanation that runs dearer to my heart - often children don't understand the actions of their parents. What may seem as cruel ( taking away or limiting the candy intake ) is really for the child's best ( eating your weight in candy is unadvisable - which the child would probably do if left to their own devices ).

Now, with older children - they usually claim to have a monopoly on wisdom - frequently to the specific exclusion of their parents - but in our case there is no parallel - Hashem knows best, always.

And so the acts of mutilation - or any other extreme sign of utter despondency in mourning - is inappropriate because, deep down, we are just children and our Father In Heaven is doing what's best.

Oh, we may cry - because it hurts - that's ok - but to feel that life cannot go own because of this loss - that's inappropriate - because if G-d did it - He must have had a good reason. And the only consolation that we can have is that, we may not like it, but, the same hand that is taking away our loved one - is also holding us in a tight embrace - telling us - "shhhhhh - all will be well, eventually"

May we be zocheh to truly feel ourselves to be on the path to destiny, guided by the loving hand of G-d Himself - and may we always be able to put our pain in this perspective - that we don't/can't know why - just that there is a good reason.

Hatzlacha !

You Are What You Eat

"ויענך וירעיבך ויאכילך את המן ...למען הודיעך כי לא על הלחם לבדו יחיה האדם כי על כל מוצא פי ד' יחיה האדם"
[דברים ח:ג]

"And He tortured you and He starved you and He fed you the manna ... to instruct you that not by bread alone shall man live, rather, by all that comes from G-d's mouth shall man live" [Devarim 8:3]

How does the manna teach us that we must live by "…what comes out of Hashem's mouth …" ? What does the food we eat have to do with our listening skills ?

But the food we eat has a direct influence over who we are. Chazal discuss this with regard to the spiritual aspects of kashrus. Non kosher food causes a dulling of the heart ( טמטום הלב ). If the food we put into our mouths influences our actions – then it stands to reason that what comes out of our mouths is a direct result of that fuel. A "systems test", if you will. The Baal HaTurim actually states that this is the reason for the manna – Bnei Yisrael could never have received(, and subsequently learned, )the torah without it !

So the manna teaches us that what goes in influences what comes out – and it's what comes out which is the deciding factor. Why did G-d choose to give the Jews such strange 'bread' ? Maybe it's due to it's necessary, special mission of fueling the first encounter with torah learning.

Just like the manna produced no waste product – so too, are the words of torah complete – with nothing extra or irrelevant. And just like the manna could taste like many different foods – so too, does the torah have 70 'faces' ( multiple meanings, nuances and understandings can all be derived from a single word – or even letter ). And just like the falling of the manna proclaimed publicly the level of righteousness of it's recipient ( the manna could fall as close as the doorstep of the intended recipient or as far out as the fields surrounding the camp – additionally, it was either ready to eat or required cooking – all based on how much effort Hashem was willing to spare the recipient, due to his righteousness ) so too does our speech proclaim, rather publicly, our personal level of righteousness.

So the lesson of the manna is that what goes in may be important – but it's what comes out as a result that is the ultimate goal – and that while our speech is of paramount importance – it is the "speech" of Hashem ( the torah ) that gives us our very life.

Are You Carrying A Greater Burden Than You Realize ?

When Moshe Rabbeinu reviews with the people the last 38 years in the desert, he also recounts his own personal saga regarding his denied entrance into Eretz Yisrael. When describing Hashem's displeasure with his actions Moshe Rabbeinu uses a very particular appelation :

" ... ויתעבר ד' בי " [Devarim 3:26 ]

Literally, "And Hashem was impregnated (with anger) towards me ..."

When we are angry we actually create this alter ego of anger within us. We carry it around, and nurture it until it explodes into being with ferocity and spite. Anger can be a sudden lash out but it can also be this slow, growth process. This second type is more dangerous - since we aren't currently expressing our anger we may feel that we have conquered it, only to be rudely awakened when it is "born" in a future confrontation.

Yet another lesson in life that Moshe Rabbeinu includes in the "mussar shmooze of a lifetime".

Additionally, this parsha is always read directly after Tishaa Bav - perhaps this is a subtle reminder from Moshe Rabbeinu on how to fix the sinaas chinam that made Tishaa Bav into a tragic day. And once we conquer the anger within us and merit to serve Hashem with our whole hearts ( also in this week's parasha - see Shema ) we will merit to build for Him a temple in our hearts - and soon a physical temple in His Holy City - bimheira beyameinu, amen.

Hatzlacha !!

Who Is Judging Who ?

In part of the epic mussar shmooze that is sefer Devarim, Moshe Rabbeinu discusses one seemingly incongruous point. Judges were appointed by Moshe and given certain guidelines about their task.

"... Judge righteously between man and his fellow ... for judgment belongs to G-d ..." [excerpted from Devarim 1:16-17]

Why do we need to know the directions that Moshe gave to the judges of the people ? And why is this part of the instructive legacy Moshe leaves for the entire nation ?

This principle ( that Judgment is, ultimately, G-d's ) is understood differently by Rashi and the Ramban.

Rashi, quoting the gemara in Sanhedrin [8a], explains that when we pervert justice we are causing Hashem to have 'extra work' because if we would have done our job right then the proper party would have gotten his reward/punishment - by messing with justice we are requiring G-d to 'clean up our mess' and set things straight in a roundabout fashion.

The Ramban explains this idea in the following way : Justice will get done one way or the other - we can either be part of the solution or part of the problem - the choice is up to us.

This is perhaps why Moshe Rabbeinu addresses this point to the entire nation ( and not just the judges ). To the judges he cautions, like Rashi, to not put 'extra' work upon Hashem - and be liable for it. While to the rest of the people, Moshe assures them - like the Ramban - that justice will be carried out no matter what - so they need not be suspicious or distrustful of their judges.

As to why this is part of Moshe's final message to the nation - perhaps this point is more fundamental that previously assumed. At the core of any mussar speech is the 'reason' to do what's right - and as we've seen when we carry out justice we are doing things the way Hashem would have them done. Could there be any greater 'reason' than allowing Hashem Himself to use our mundane actions as instruments of His Divine Will ?

Hatzlacha !!

An End To Exile

The "accidental murderer" is one whose actions are criminally negligent - but cannot be considered deliberate. So instead of being sentenced to death for his crime, he must sit in exile in one of the cities that are populated by the holy tribe of Levi until the death of the Kohen Gadol.

There are many interpertations of the message behind this unusual sentence. Most classic being that the Kohen Gadol somehow has the power to elevate the nation from a level of carelessness for the personal saftey of our fellows to a level of proper concern. And so the Kohen Gadol is tainted by this crime as well and must atone for it with his life, in the fullness of time.

But perhaps there is a different angle as well. It is known that we are never punished by G-d in a manner designed to harm us, rather, Hashem's justice is meant to be instructive and guiding us in a proper direction - much in the same way that a guard rail would hurt if we ran into it headlong - even though it is just there to prevent us from falling over the edge.

With this in mind let us examine the exile of the "accidental murderer". The tribe of Levi devoted themselves to serving Hashem - whether in learning His Torah or serving in His Temple. Any long term association with these tzaddikim would hopefully rub off on the receipient. And how much "rubbing off" will the murderer need to mend his ways ? Depends. It depends on his level of absorption of the righteous ways of the Leviim.

And what is the capstone ? The death of the Holiest Levi of them all, the Kohen Gadol. When the Kohen Gadol dies, all who are affected by the loss are moved to pledge themselves to fill the gap that he left. Since he is no longer around to perform this mitzva or another, we attempt to 'cover' and raise our standards of righteousness in his honor. And when the 'accidental murderer' has lived with the Leviim and identifies with their loss - he will also be moved to resolve to better his ways by this tragic loss. This will complete his teshuva - thusly earning hs freedom.

And what about us ? Are we not in exile ? Is Hashem not waiting for us to 'raise our game' and thus earn our deliverance ?

In this period of mourning for our losses - may we merit to increase our righteousness and become the jews we need to be to merit the geula sheleima, bimheira beyameinu, amen.

Hatzlacha !!

Last Act Of Sacrifice

When Moshe Rabbeinu is commanded to fight the Midianites and then 'hang up his spurs', he doesn't hesitate one bit - but rather pushes ahead full steam with plans for the battle. Many reasons are given for this - and all of them indicate Moshe's praise. Some contend that Moshe would not delay a battle to avenge the honor of G-d, while others point out that Moshe would always perform every mitzva alacritiously - even if it was his last act alive.

I would like to add the following explanation - Moshe's love for Eretz Yisrael. Knowing that he would not bring the people into the land, Moshe actually hastened to perform his final mitzva so as not to delay their entrance into the land.

Parshas Mattos is usually read during the three weeks - a time of national tragedy. The anchor of this sad time is our abuse and disregard of Hashem's special 'daled amos', eretz yisrael. With his final act Moshe is trying to teach us how to be moser nefesh for this great zchus - even without entering it himself ! Sadly, at the end of the parasha we see that the shevatim of Gad and Reuven ( and half of Menashe ) didn't learn this lesson.

But we can !

Whether we have been privileged to live in Eretz Yisrael or just been here as a visitor - if we would internalize this, the last message of Moshe Rabbeinu, and see the land for it's immense and awesome importance - perhaps we will merit to reverse this period of time from sadness to gladness and from our current exile to redemption, bimheira beyameinu, amen.

Hatzlacha !!

Are We Angels Or Are We Men ?

Regarding the most basic of all the korbanos - the korban Olah - the passuk makes an interesting association.

"Olas tamid ha'asuya behar sinai lereiach nichoach, ishei l'Hashem" [Bamidbar 28:6]
"An Olah sacrifice that is brought consistently, as is was brought on mount Sinai, a pleasing aroma, a burnt offering to Hashem" [Bamidbar 28:6]

Why the comparison to Har Sinai ? There were no sacrifices brought on Har Sinai ?

The Sefas Emes offers an explanation. There are two modes that man functions in. A journey to raise man's personal level of kedusha and to raise the levels of kedusha of the surrounding world, and a static mode - for when man has reached the source of kedusha.

Most of the time we are journeying, attaining higher levels of kedusha - but at times we are zocheh to tap into and be present at the root of all kedusha - Hashem Himself. At these times we are similar to the angels who are always before G-d. At those times our service of Him is categorized by standing, just like the angels stand.

This second, holier type of avodah is the highest form we practice - and is represented in every experience we had as a nation when we were in the presence of the Root of All Kedusha. At Har Sinai - we stood, like the angels. The avodah in the beis hamikdash is done standing - in deference to the shechina that rests there - and even in our private davening - the pinnacle is the section called the 'Amidah'.

And there is a connection between all these avodahs - that's why the korban Olah is reffered to as having been 'made' on Har Sinai - because the service of Hashem that we perform with the korban is similar to the experience we had at Har Sinai - tapping into the Root Of All Kedusha.

May we all be zocheh to realize that we stand before the Root Of All Kedusha three times a day - and in this realization may we be soon in the presence of the shechina in the Beis HaMikdash, bringing the korban Olah as it was 'brought' on Har Sinai, bimheira byameinu, amen.

Hatzlacha !!

Wouldn't You Like To Be A Donkey Too ?

Why did Hashem choose to put the power of speech in the hands of a donkey to rebuke Bilaam for his wicked intentions ?

A donkey is the symbol of irreverance and disregard for the higher stature of someone greater - as Chazal teach us "If the earlier generations may be compared to angels then we may be compared to men - but if they are men, then we are donkeys" [Shabbos 112b]. My Rosh Yeshiva, Rabbi Rhodes shlit"a, would explain that viewing earlier generations through our own myopic lens is tantamount to the attitude of a donkey - to him everything is on a level playing field - earlier generations, current generations, scholars, lay people, sinners - even animals !

It is therefor fitting for Bilaam, who is guilty of the very same irreverance ( he is so full of himself that he believes he can outwit G-d and curse the Jews ! ) to be rebuked by his donkey. And it is also fitting for an animal, who has no gift of speech, to point out to Bilaam his errors - seeing as how he planned his misdeeds with the very same gift of speech.

And us ? What can we take away from all this ?

Two things.

Firstly, appreciation for Hashem's justice that governs all aspects of life right down to how He deals with rouge gentile prophets.

Secondly, when we go down the path of irreverance and arrogance - we may deteriorate down the slippery slope until we attempt to challenge even Hashem himself ! And so we need to be extra careful to avoid this trait.

Hatzlacha !

What is Pure ?

Once something is defiled - there is no such thing as re-purifying it. The entire concept of purity is something which has never been tainted.

So how does the Torah have all sorts of recipies for the repurification of man and kli ? The answer lies in the final ingredient. Time.

For light 'tumah' we are commanded to bathe ( either ourselves and our clothing or just ourselves ) and "...be tameh until nightfall". Even once we have fulfilled all the requirements of tahara - we still must wait for a new day to begin.

Why ?

Because we aren't removing the tumah - we are being recreated without it. And recreation occurs constantly - every day. When we are impure - we actually drag the tumah with us into our next day, into our next recreation. By toivelling and fulfilling all conditions for tahara - we are actually just leaving the tumah behind when Hashem recreates us.

And what about serious tumah ? We need an entire, seven day, repurification process. Seven days is the paradigm of creation - Hashem initially made the world in these seven days - and He recreates it every week. ( incidentally - that is one of the most special things about shabbos - but that's for another post )

So, now that we are unable to keep most of the laws of tumah and tahara - what does this mean for us ?

It means that every tomorrow is affected by today. Without effort and intervention - my mistakes of yesterday will roll over into my today. But, with a serious attempt at re-attaining my pristine status - Hashem, in his kindess, will grant me a recreation in the same pure state that He initially granted me life.

Hatzlacha !

The Good, The Bad & The Holy

If the 250 men who brought Ketores were in error ( as seen by their subsequent death ) why does Hashem not command that the shovels they used be destroyed ?

The Alshich tells us that the answers lies in a clear understanding of a complex subject : dedication to Hashem.

At the extremes, dedication is simple - either you are completely dedicated, submitting yourself entirely to the cause, or you are completely undedicated - uncaring and apathetic. The complexity lies somewhere in the middle - can you be dedicated to a cause but too hung up on your own prejudices to leave behind your own agenda ? Yes, you can be.

The incense shovels used represented exactly this type of dedication to Hashem. They were well intentioned - they sought only to serve Hashem and His glory - but they couldn't get past their own hang ups ( namely, that they should be doing the serving and not Aharon HaKohen ).

Yes, the intentions were noble - that is why we see that the shovels get preserved as part of the mizbeach itself! No, their action was not free of sin - that is why they are forever known as the shovels of those men who sinned ( see Bamidbar 17:3-5 ).

And what about us ?

This lesson is instructive to us in two ways :
1. We should always recognize the good and holy intentions in others - even if they come with baggage.
2. We should be ever vigilant of our own actions - we should never be satisfied with just performing a mitzva, we should scrutinize our motives until we can be sure that we are not bringing any impurity and personal gain into the equation.

Hatzlacha !!

The Taking Tree

Why was the parsha of the meraglim written next to the parsha of Miriam ? To emphasise the wickedness of the meraglim - they saw Miriam punished for slander and failed to take notice.
( Rashi Bamidbar 13:2 Quoting the medrash Rabba )

The Maayan Beis Hashoeva poses the following question : Why did we have to wait until someone was punished for slander to take notice ? Isn't it enough that it's an issur ? He answers by making a distinction - yes, it's an issur to speak lashon hara against a person - and for that we need no precedent for anyone to take notice of - but against a land ? That is not as straight forward and for that we would require a precedent to teach us the wrongness of the action.

But how does the example fit the case ? Miriam's slander was regarding a person ?!

Rav Schwab answers that Moshe was not affected by the lashon hara as a regular person might be. A normal person may be hurt or offended by negative comments made against them - it's only normal. Moshe Rabbeinu, however, was exceedingly humble - he wasn't offended by others' judgments of him - he was too busy trying to live up to his own intense self scrutiny ( this is the true meaning of humilty - not mistaken low self esteem ). Therefore Miriam - who spoke about Moshe, who was unaffected, may have seemed not to have been guilty - if not for the divine judgment upon her.

So Miriam's case was one where the recipient is not affected directly by the slander. This does serve as an adequate precedent for the case of the spies - since the land they spoke of also remained unaffected by their slander.

And if we ask what is wrong with slandering the unoffended ?

Well, we have two paths in life - we can be givers or takers. Those who heal or those who hurt. It almost doesn't matter what effect our actions have on others - but in order to solidify these actions within ourselves - we need to perform them. Should we be compassionate to someone who doesn't/can't feel it ? Well -if we are then we are a compassionate person - and that is as worthy goal as any.

Hatzlacha !!

Mount Of Destruction

The mishna in Pirkei Avos ( sixth perek - which isn't really part of the tractate - but that's another discussion ... ) recounts that a heavenly voice emanates from Har Chorev and warns ... "Woe to people who take part in the degradation of the Torah".

The degradation that is being referred to is those who forsake the Torah for other, more mundane, pursuits and leave the Torah forlorn - so to speak.

This is why Har Sinai is described by one of it's other names - Har Chorev - or the mountain of Churban, destruction. You see, when the Torah was given to the world - it represented a great gift - Hashem's very wisdom encapsulated and distilled in a manner that is now accessible to mere mortal man. However with that gift came the potential for great destruction - if we ignore the Torah or fail to accord it proper respect - we are culpable for a great wrong.

So why accentuate the negative ? Why stress the potential destruction rather than the great possible gain ? The Maharal explains that the negative makes a stronger impression than the positive. Hatred is more felt than love. While at first glance this may seem disheartening - it is really a potentially great point of chizzuk.

We were entrusted with the ticking time bomb of monumental proportions. Not only is the potential gain, if we properly honor and study the Torah, great - but the very fact that Hashem put that specific ball in our court is perhaps the greatest testament to His divine faith in us.

Take heart ! We are Hashem 's chosen nation - chosen, not only to proclaim Hashem's name in this world , but also to guard this world from the destruction that would follow if we ignore our noble calling.

Hatzlacha !!

What Banner Do We March Under ?

In the desert, the Jewish people marched in a very specific formation. Their layout was actually a recreation of the places the tribes ( the sons of Yaakov Avinu themselves ) took around Yaakov Avinu's casket as they carried it to burial.

The pride and splendor of marching in their own, divinely ordained places was said to be so magnificent that the feeling of 'rightness' and belonging was forever assimilated into our national conciousness. So much so, that when the nations of the world offer us places of prominence we refuse them - because their pedestals can never compare with our own places [see Shir HaShirim 7:1 and Rashi ad loc.].

The Ramban, in his iggeres, cautions us to pursue humility - because the "hearts of men" - their admiration - is a currency that can't buy very much in terms of what is truly worthwhile.

With all this in mind we should always ask ourselves - are we pursuing our true goals ? Do we really value the camping of the shevatim over the praises of the world ?

And if we marched under our own banner - what would the insignia be ?

Hatzlacha !!

Study The Good Book - But Why ?

If you shall walk in my "chukim" … [Vayikra 26:3]

Rashi points out that the remainder of the passuk seems all inclusive of any condition that Hashem may place upon us – we must keep the mitzvos and actively fulfill them. What then, could Hashem's first condition of proper Jewish living be ? Toiling in torah study.

The Ohr Hachaim Hakadosh asks a few questions on this position :
1. Isn't Torah Study one of the aforementioned mitzvos ?
2. And if you assume that Torah Study serves as a prerequisite to fulfillment of the mitzvos – why label it a chok (law that is unfathomable by logical reason) ? Isn't it, as a prerequisite, anything but unfathomable by logic ?

Yes, torah study as a prerequisite to mitzvah observance is logical – but that's not the kind of study the passuk is referring to. When Hashem instructs us to toil in understanding of His holy words – it is a missive that goes above and beyond mere comprehension. What we are really enjoined to do is to undertake a level of dedication that defies all logic – a dedication that is a matter of simple a-logical devotion, and when we do that we will be truly worthy of the blessings that Hashem promises to shower upon us.

May we all be zocheh to achieve at least a slice of this – amen !

Hatzlacha !

When In Rome ...

Why does our parasha, which discusses shmitta and yovel, end off with an admonition against idolatry ?
Rashi explains that the relevance is to the immediately previous topic, slavery. You may think that if you suffer the ignonimity to be sold into an idolatrous household, you would at least be permitted to act in accordance with that household and worship idols. Not so, says the Torah, you must maintain your own, higher standards wherever you are.

While this is a wonderful idea to keep in our back pocket - and from which we can draw inspiration regularly - there may be a deeper thought beneath the surface.

Rashi also explains [Vayikra 26:1] how this slave got into this situation to begin with. He began by allowing his desire to get the better of him regarding the issur of trafficking in shmitta produce. He will then spiral downwards, says Rashi, until he must sell himself into slavery to cover his debts - and if he will still not repent, he will even be further sold into the hands of non Jews.

So to summ up - he was greedy and is now under the jurisdiction of idolaters who have principles that counter his own.

To this person Hashem makes special mention of the prohibition of idolatry. But Hashem also makes special mention of our special position in the hierarchy of society. We are "personal slaves of the Almighty". I believe this is intended as a chizzuk inspiration to the downtrodden sinner. He may have been guilty of financial impropriety. He may have followed his desires instead of his conscience until he found himself in this sorry state. But the spark that can always pull a Jew out of the quagmire of his own failings is the knowledge that Hashem still considers him good enough to be His servant.

As the Ohr Hachaim HaKadosh points out - when Hashem declares bnei yisrael's bondage He refers to it as an inborn trait. We are born into it - and no matter how badly we stumble and muck around - we're still it. And Hashem just wanted to remind us of this - especially when we fall into hard times.

Hatzlacha !!

Are We Men Or Are We Oxen ?

"If an ox or a sheep or a goat shall be born, it shall be for seven days with it's mother and from the eighth day on it would be pleasing as a korban to be burnt before Hashem" [Vayikra 22:27]

The Kli Yakar points out that immediately upon birth the animal is known by the appelation of it's species - ox, sheep etc'... This is because the animal is as developed as it's going to be. Animals are defined by their species - a newborn ox is still an ox. As it grows it will get bigger and fatter - not different.

Not so a man. When we are born we are known merely as a "zachar" or a "nekeiva" - male or female ( see Vayikra ch. 12 ). It is only when we reach majority and are deserving of the title are we refered to as man.

It is only when our actions speak for who we are that we may be known by that most noble ( or most despicable ) of appelations : Man.

Let us act with this in mind. That with every action we are further developing, not only our self identity, but our self definition as well.

Hatzlacha !

Facing The Music

When a man is to be punished by G-d for unpardonable acts, such as idolatry, the passuk describes the process as being subject to the "face of G-d" ( see Vayikra 20: 5-6)

While Rashi understands the meaning of this phrase to be that Hashem will 'avail' Himself of the opportunity to mete out justice - since the word for face "פני" is similar to the word for being available "פנאי" - we can also understand it on it's basic pshat level.

When we commit a sin we are causing a spiritual deformity in ourselves. We were created to be a kedusha generator and any malfunction on our part detracts from our intended functioning. Now, just like with any breakage - sometimes the thing will still work when put through the regular paces. But if we were to try to operate the machine at it's maximum - the breakage would be obvious and malfunction would occur.

This is what happens when we are brought "face to face" with Hashem. Our own actions cause us to be unable to stand in the august presence of Hashem - and it is presicely this exposure that brings about our punishment.

Let us endeavor to keep our own kedusha generators in ship shape - so that when we come face to face with the presence of kedusha - instead of a punishment it will materialize as a beracha - "ברכנו אבינו באור פניך". Amen.

Hatzlacha !!

Eating Is Believing

The Sefas Emes points out that matza is referred to as "מיכלא דמהימנותא" the food of belief. After seven days of eating this food we come to the culmination of Pesach.

While in the miraculous events of the exodus ( the first night ) we find many miracles - we don't see the description of "emunah" applied to the Jews until the splitting of the sea. This is perhaps because, like the matza it is represented by, emunah may be quickly forged - but it needs to be digested slowly over a period of at least seven days.

Hatzlacha !

The Keys To Our Heart

At the end of the Shemonei Esrei we ask Hashem to "Open our hearts to Your torah and may our spirit chase Your mitzvos".

The Maggid of Dubno explained this request with an analogy. When there is a bird trapped in a cage - and you open the cage - you need not offer any additional encouragement to the bird to entice it to leave. It is in this fashion that we wish for Hashem to open our hearts to torah. Not just to make it accesible to us - but to remove any internal barriers we may have - so that we actually chase after it - like a bird fleeing it's confinement.

Another way of approaching this is an alternative reading of the actual phrase; "פתח ליבי בתורתך". While literally meaning "Open my heart to Your torah" we may read it "Open my heart with Your torah". There are many experiences and philosophies out there - each one claiming to have secured a monopoly on it's own little slice of the truth of the human condition. These theories may claim to have profound influence on us and may claim to be the source of experiential wisdom - yet they all strike us as just skin deep compared to the torah.

If we want to understand our hearts and the keys to our emotions - we must search for them in the Manufacturer's instruction manual. If we want to achieve a real self awareness that is prerequisite to serving Hashem - there is no need to look in pop psychology or the current musical hit - these bits of "wisdom" aren't the key to what our hearts truly feel. Only the torah can unlock our self understanding and enable us to wholeheartedly pursue our life.

Hatzlacha !

The Impulse Buy

In preparation for Pesach we observe Shabbos Hagadol. Either this week ( Metzora ) or next ( Acharei Mos ) depending on your understanding of it.

The Chassidic Masters discuss the relative significance of having two specific Shabboses, Hagadol and Shuva ( the shabbos between Rosh Hashanna and Yom Kippur ). The Nesivos Shalom suggests that these shabboses are each to complete the two-tiered approach we have towards serving Hashem - Yiraa and Ahava.

Shabbos Shuva - obviousely the time to work on fear and awe of Heaven.
Shabbos Hagadol - to open our hearts and be filled with "largesse" towards our service of Hashem.

An analogy struck me as being incredibly appropriate to our avodah in trying to motivate our love for G-d. When was the last time we had an impulse buy ? A purchase that wasn't pre-planned, it just happenned because you thought that what you were buying would make someone happy. ( Even yourself - you are suppossed to love yourself too !) This was a quintessential act of love. This is the emotion we want to tap into and direct towards G-d in this week of pre-pesach preperation. We can feel affection towards the Ribbono Shel Olam a hundred times a day ! Whenever we see His guiding hand in our succeses ( or even his hand as a safety net - preventing the failures from being worse ... ) we can deepen the love.

So whenever we have a moment - direct your thoughts heavenward and tell Hashem - "I love you ! - no reason - I just wanted you to know" and watch as your relationship with Hashem blossoms. This is why Shabbos Hagadol is big - because loving G-d is big. Real big. And when you do it - you'll be big too.

Hatzlacha !!

A Window or A Mirror ? Reflection or Insight ?

You know how, when you click a button on your screen, it seems to actually be pressed in for a moment. This is, of course, an illusion that is based on shading and light. By shifting the colors and immediate background around the "button" to a lighter shade, the button appears to be depressed.

This is perhaps what the Torah refers to as " ... it's appearance is deeper than the skin ... " [ Vayikra 13:3 ] regarding the brightness of the tzaraas wound.

Why does the Torah describe the tzaraas wound's depth, though (instead of just describing the brightness) ? To allude to it's purpose.

Tzaraas can be seen as a window or a reflection.

Seen as a mirror, tzaraas is a reflection of a person's activities. While a pleasant face and countenance may be presented to the outside world - one who is guilty of violations that would cause tzaraas is certainly conducting themselves in an ugly and blemished manner. In this way the tzaraas simply mirrors on the outside what the person is acting on the inside.

In a more meaningful fashion, however, tzaraas acts as a window into the person's own activities. While many forms of tzaraas-causing activities are perpetrated knowingly, the nature of these transgressions is a hidden one - one that can certainly be downplayed or even ignored by the person committing them. In this fashion the tzaraas acts as a window into the deeper aspects of man's activities. It's presence calls attention to an ill that lies beneath the surface. Only by bringing it to the felon's attention can it be rectified.

If you would see a storm brewing from your window - you might have a few hasty preparations that you would want to accomplish. Without the warning of a window, however, you might be hit blindsided by the winds and rain. Similarly, the metzora may never have taken a week to contemplate and introspect in total solitude. The window into his actions that tzaraas affords him - gives him just that opportunity.

Nowadays we don't have that privilege. We aren't given the divine window into our actions that tzaraas shows us. We can, however, make use of the same 'cure' the metzora is instructed with. A few minutes daily, in quiet meditation, can help put our interactions with others in proper perspective.

A little cheshbon hanefesh goes a long way.

Hatzlacha !!