tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90059269469648486172024-03-04T23:24:48.612-05:00כבוד התורהUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger377125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-53656918313496361602019-03-13T08:18:00.001-04:002019-03-13T08:18:18.069-04:00Adar 2 - Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin<br />
As we have already begun the second month of Adar, and we all know that in this month we are to increase joy and happiness, I’d like to share with you a thought from the Holy Ruzhiner Rebbe. We know the rule of “botel bishishim”, taste becomes void when it is mixed with sixty times its measure. Says the holy Ruzhiner when there are two months of Adar, (as this year,) from Rosh Chodesh Adar 1 until the conclusion of Adar 2 there are sixty days, in which we increase joy and happiness. With the power of sixty we can nullify any sorrow misery or depression from the entire year.<br />
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May we merit always only joy and happiness.<br />
<br />Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-14468173178690970322019-02-15T08:39:00.004-05:002019-02-15T08:39:48.031-05:00Dvar Torah - Titzave - Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin<br />
This week we are privileged to read the portion of Titzave. The portion begins with the mitzvah of preparing proper olive oil in order to kindle the Menorah every evening. The portion continues with Hashem commanding Moshe to arrange for the production of the special garment to be worn in the Holy Temple (Mishkon - Beis Hamikdosh), by the High Priest - Kohen Godol. Separate garments needed to be worn by the other Kohanim (priests), during their service in the Mishkon/ Beis Hamikdosh. Each of these garments needed to be prepared according to special specifications. Each of the garments of the Kohen Godol were to atone for different sins, and their specifications have hints and very deep meaning.<br />
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In Shmos 28 - 2, the Torah says that the garments for the High Priest Ahron shall be made for honor and splendor. This would imply that it was sort of a manifestation of splendor, and a uniform to present the honor of the position. Further in the next phrase, the Torah states “and you shall speak the wise people whom I’ve invested with the spirit of wisdom, and they shall make the vestments (garments) of Ahron to sanctify him to serve me. This seems to be a contradiction. Is the purpose of the outer look of the Kohen meant for splendor and honor or is it for sanctity, and service?<br />
Many times two people will hear the same thing and one hears what he wants to hear and the other is really paying attention to the deeper meaning. The simple person may view the garments and vestments as a uniform thats just there for splendor, someone who’s not superficial understands that every detail has meaning. Every color, every cut, every stone, every garment has tremendous lessons and is meant to awaken in us a yearning and a desire to get closer to Hashem. As we are well aware before the Jewish leaders went out to war they would consult with The Urim Vitumim which was placed behind the Brestplate - the Choshen. The answer would show up in lit up letters on the Choshen. Of course to understand and appreciate this one needs to obtain wisdom and not look at these holy garments as just superficially.<br />
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May we speedily merit to return to the days of true glory when the life of the Jewish people was directed by meaningful servants in the holy temple.<br />
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ותחזינה עינינו בשובך לציון ברחמים בשמחה ובטוב לבב.<br />
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Gut ShabbosSite Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-84361524889746873382019-02-08T04:28:00.001-05:002019-02-08T04:29:06.519-05:00Dvar Torah - Truma - Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin<br />
This week we are privileged to read the portion of Truma. The portion begins with Hashem’s request that Moshe tell klal Yisroel to contribute various raw materials in order to build a Mishkon - a dwelling, so to say, for the Shechina (Hashem’s presence). This contribution was given by everyone whose heart desired to take part in this great mission. There was no mandatory amount and nobody was forced to give. All items are needed for the Mishkon, are listed in detail, gold, silver, copper.... Hashem also described to Moshe the artifacts and utensils which were to be placed in the Mishkon, beginning with the Aron - the holy Ark, which held in it the two tablets, and represents the holy Torah. Then there were the remaining artifacts such as the Shulchan, the Menorah and the Mizbeiach. Each one of the above mentioned artifacts had to be made precisely to specifications. All the details and measurements have great meaning and nothing is just simply by chance.<br />
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The first of the artifacts is the Aron which represents the Torah and above them were the kruvim - two birds, with faces like children facing each other. The kruvim represent the highest standard of Torah study, like children, who are worry free and don't have to go out to earn a living, they are able to immerse themselves in anything without great worry. So too, the world stands on Torah that is studied around the clock with full concentration. Another interesting detail is that the Kruvim faced each other, which is a hint as to how Torah should be studied. The talmud teaches us oi chavrusa oi misusa - either with a partner, or death. In other words, live Torah needs to be studied with others, otherwise it is dead. Perhaps that is a hint of the Kruvim above the Aron. Maybe even a step further, without taking an interest in someone else, there is no relation to Torah, upneihem ish el ochiv.<br />
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The idea of the Mishkon is that we create place for the shchina, to dwell amongst us. The Talmud teaches us that after the destruction of the Holy Temple our Shuls and places where Torah is studied, have somewhat of the holiness of the Beis Hamikdosh. By cherishing and respecting our Mikdosh Mi’at (small Temple), we will soom metit to return to the glorious days of the true great dwelling - the Beis Hamikdosh.<br />
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Gut Shabbos<br />
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Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-54075523187465748202019-02-01T03:06:00.001-05:002019-02-01T03:06:11.060-05:00Dvar Torah - Mishpotim - Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin <br />
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This week we are privileged to read the portion of Mishpotim. The portion begins with the laws pertaining to someone who purchased a Jewish slave. The maximum term of work is six years, and if he is married, his master must make sure that his family is supported as well. The Talmud in tractate Kidushin teaches us that one who purchased a Jewish slave, in essence, purchased a master. The way one must treat the slave is fascinating. He cannot sleep with two pillows and his slave with one, he cannot overwork him and many other details that are designed to teach us respect for each other.<br />
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The Torah portion continues discussing physical harm, which one may have caused to someone and the proper restitution. Further the Torah discusses the four different types of damages which one’s animal or property causes to his fellow man or to his property. Later we learn about the stringency of mistreating a widow or an orphan. We also learn about the importance of assisting one another with loans when needed. As Rashi states, when you are approached for a loan you should view it as if you were the one in need (imoch). The portion concludes with Details that transpired during kabolas haTorah.<br />
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The majority of this portion are issues that apply bein odom lichaveiro - between man and man. This is the first portion after kabolas haTorah, and it also ends with the details of mamad Har Sinai (events at Mt Sinai). To be a Torah Jew means to be stringent not only in mitzvohs between man and G-d but it begins with mitzvohs between man and man. Perhaps one more example of this concept is the mitzvah ozov tazov imo - one who see his enemy’s donkey lying under a heavy load, one must assist him. The Talmud states that if one has an enemy who needs assistance loading and a Friend who needs assistance unloading he should rather assist the enemy, in order to overcome his bad tendencies of revenge (see Bava Metzia 32). Although normally it would seem more important to unload to lighten the burden from the animal as well, yet, the Torah stresses how important it is for us to change and refine our character.<br />
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The portion begins with “the laws which you shall place before them” and rashi explains that the Torah should be placed before them like a fully prepared table from which one can immediately eat. A chosid once complained to the Chidushei Horim, that he was forgetting the Torah he learned. The Chidushei Harim replied, why is it that when it comes to eating, you don’t seem to have forgotten ? Did you ever put your spoon in the soup and then instead of putting it into your mouth, put it into your ear ? Why is it that the Torah doesn’t become ingrained in us at least as much as the mundane things we do ?<br />
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May we merit to learn Torah and be wholesome in both, bein odom laMokom and bein odom lchaveiro, thereby absorbing the Torah as part of us.<br />
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Gut Shabbos<br />
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Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-81943395185923637542019-01-27T07:53:00.001-05:002019-01-27T07:53:27.784-05:00Boruch HabaFrom Bnei Brak an Adam Gadol, Shlita arrived to New York to raise funds for his Yeshiva.<br />
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Maran Harav Menachem Tzvi Berlin, Shlita who is the Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivas Rabbenu Chaim Ozer in Bnei Brak, is visiting generous supporters of Torah in Brooklyn, Monsey and Lakewood . He also plans on visiting Los Angeles during his time here.<br />
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Maran Harav Shach, zt"l admired Rav Berlin, shlita very much.<br />
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He is very respected in all of the Tzibur hacharedi<br />
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In Eretz Yisroel. People come to him asking him for his Brachos that have proven to cause change in people's lives for the better. Regarding Parnasa, health, and Shalom Bayis etc..<br />
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Utnu Kavod Ltorah Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-10450096175093936802019-01-25T06:22:00.000-05:002019-01-25T06:22:29.248-05:00Torah News in The Torah World1. A Siddur with a Pirush and Psakim of Maran Rav Chaim Kanyevsky שליט"א, was recently published. It is currently available only in Nusach Ashkenaz.<br />
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The publisher is a nephew of Maran Harav Chaim Kanyevsky שליט"א, Harav Lipa Yisroelson שליט"א.<br />
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2- The Sefer `Emes V'emunah` has been out of print for a while. This book is a collection of Torah Gems from the Heilige Rebbe of Kotzk, זיע"א.<br />
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It has been recently reprinted and is available for purchase<br />
<br />Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-74822729248109228222019-01-18T02:56:00.003-05:002019-01-18T02:56:51.977-05:00Dvar Torah - Beshalach - Rabbi Yitzchok WolpinDear Friends<br />
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This week we are privileged to read the portion of Beshalach. The Shabbos in which beshalach is read is called Shabbos Shira (praise/song). The reason why this portion is so special, that we name it a name, although we don't find that with any other portion. Usually a portion is named after an individual or a word in the beginning of the portion. There are four special historic events, and gifts we received from Hashem, that are mentioned in this portion: Splitting of the sea, the Manna which came down from heaven daily, the holy Shabbos, and the war with Amolek. All and each of the above warrant a separate praise to Hashem. It is for this reason, says Reb Avrom Yaakov of Sadigura, that this Shabbos is called Shabbos Shira.<br />
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We recite the Shira daily, during shachris (morning prayers). The Beis Ahron writes that the shiras hayam includes everything one needs. One can find salvation for all problems, spiritual or material, if one recites Oz Yoshir (shiras hayam) with proper concentration.<br />
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Many commentaries ask, why is it that Jews did not say Shira only after they crossed the sea ? They had witnessed so many miracles until then, why didn’t they say shira on the ten plagues or on the exodus ? The holy Kabbalist Reb Chaim Vital answers, that the Jews had been subject earlier to such a cruel decree of throwing infants into the river, they could not say praise or sing until they saw revenge for that specific decree. Now the Egyptians were punished measure for measure, and drowned in water, they were finally able to say shira wholeheartedly.<br />
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In Likutei Ritzba gives a slightly different approach. Moshe wanted to recite the Shira with the entire nation, as it is written in mishlei 14/28 birov am hadras melech - the greater the crowd, the more glory for the king. Up until now, despite the great excitement and appreciation for all the great miracles, there was still fear of the agressor. Even a slave that manages to escape is not fully relaxed until he knows his master can never recapture him again. Now when they witnessed with their own eyes how the Egyptian oppressors were dead at the sea side, they were able to sing shira to Hashem all together with glory.<br />
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As it is the week we read about the tremendous miracles, may Hashem grant us all the salvation that Klal Yisroel needs and each individuals needs, whether it is Parnosoh or Shiduchim or strengthening the taste of Shabbos and/or erasing Amolek from within, and of course from outside, speedily.<br />
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Gut ShabbosSite Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-14962540615628723932019-01-03T16:29:00.001-05:002019-01-03T16:29:35.948-05:00Dvar Torah - Voeiro - Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin<br />
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This week we are privileged to read the portion of Voeiro. In the end of last weeks portion, Moshe complained to Hashem, why he sent him on this mission, for since he came to Pharaoh the situation went from bad to worse. The portion begins with Hashem rebuking Moshe for complaining. Later Hashem reaffirms that he will take the Jewish nation out of Egypt and He will bring them to the land, which He promised to their forefathers. We learn about the first seven plagues, brought upon the Egyptians, which was the beginning of the redemption of klal Yisroel (the Jewish nation). Before each plague there was a warning period whereby Moshe informed Pharoh about the coming plague, giving him the chance to release the jews from Egypt, and avoid the plague. Hashem informed Moshe that Pharaoh will be stubborn and he won’t send the Jewish nation out of Egypt.<br />
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The beginning of the portion is rather difficult to understand. Here Moshe left Midyan and came back to Egypt, risking his life, only to fulfill the request of G-d. He goes to Pharaoh, who considered Moshe to be a convicted felon. He warns him that he must send his brothers and sisters, the Jewish nation out of Egypt, and not only was his request not granted and in his eyes, his mission was a total failure, things got "worse" for the Jews. What's so terrible about Moshe's complaint ? Doesn't it sound like legitimate complaint from someone who was deeply concerned with the living conditions of his brethren.<br />
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The Chassidic commentaries and the Baalei Musar say a very similar concept. One needs to know that nothing Hashem does is "bad". If we see somethings that look bad it's because we lack clear vision we lack proper insight into what's taking place. The rebuke was not for requesting better conditions, that's acceptable. The rebuke was to the wording of Lomo hareioiso - why did you make it worse ( bad). Everything Hashem does is for the good, in fact the reason they were freed earlier after 210 years instead of 400 years), was because of the greater difficulty that made up for the remaining years.<br />
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A farmer's child woke up early every morning even before the sun would rise. He would look around as the sun was rising and wonder on the opposite side of the farm there was a house with gold Windows. He would marvel every morning at that home wondering who lived there. One day he decided he's gonna head out in that direction and although it's far he's determined to see that house. He heads west for hours, and it's nearing sunset and he just doesn't seem to find the house with the gold Windows, instead he sees an old broken house. As it was getting late, he knocked on the door and a little child opened the door and he asked him, maybe you know where the house with gold Windows are ? Sure, said the young child come on to the porch and look in the direction you came from. As he looks in the direction of his farm, he sees the gold Windows are by his farm. What we see is what we want to see, and from where we approach what we are looking at.<br />
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A lecturer in a rehab center once demonstrated to his patients the danger that overconsumption of alcohol can cause. He took a worm and put it into a cup of whisky and in seconds the worm became crumbs. The crowd was amazed, some wanted to see the demo again. Then the presenter asked the attendees, what conclusion do you draw from what you saw ? One of the attendees got up and said that he gets it, the conclusion he drew was that people who drink a lot of alcohol don't have bugs/worms in their stomach. No one got the simple message, that overconsumption of alcohol can tear the body apart. Because everyone sees what they want to see. If one wants to see good, one can see good in the midst of misery, G-d forbid. If one doesn't focus on seeing the good, they will never appreciate it.<br />
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This is the lesson for us, of course we are not on the level of Moshe, but the Torah writes this so that we should learn to program ourselves to see good in everything. May Hashem grant us good that's easy to comprehend!<br />
Gut Shabbos!Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-28698268379633109172018-12-20T03:45:00.000-05:002018-12-20T03:45:03.412-05:00A glimpse into Torah Leadership in America - #1Maran Harav Aharon Schechter, Shlit"a - Rosh Yeshivas Rabbenu Chaim Berlin.<br />
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Maran Harav Aharon, Shlit"a is the Senior Rosh Yeshiva in America.<br />
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A Talmid Muvhak of Maran Harav Yitzchok Hutner, Zt"l.<br />
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Maran Rav Aharon, Shlit"a authored the Sefer on Kodshim titled Avodas Aharon in his younger Years.<br />
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During his ACTIVE tenure as Rosh Yeshiva he would learn with his Talmidim the Sefer pachad<br />
Yitzchok authored by his Rebbe Maran Harav Hutner, Zt"l. He was greatly respected by Maran Harav SZ, Zt"l and Maran Harav Eliyashuv, Zt"l<br />
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Utnu Kovod L'torah!Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-67453062905809142492018-12-11T16:08:00.000-05:002018-12-11T16:08:05.892-05:00Donald Trump<br />
Donald Trump is considered to be the most popular American president among the Jewish orthodox community.<br />
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Beginning with commuting the sentence of R' Shalom Rubashkin after having spent almost 8 years in prison and his transfer of the American embassy to Yerushalayim he is seen as a president who cares about jews amongst many other groups.<br />
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His son in law, mr Kushner identifies as an observant jew and has been very helpful to all of the Jewish community in the U.S.<br />
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The president, recently got many jews together for a chanukah celebration in the White House and spoke about his strong conviction that the U.S. should support Israel and help protect it.<br />
<br />Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-65926931759996249662018-11-22T04:53:00.002-05:002018-11-22T04:53:36.187-05:00Dvar Torah - Vayishlach - Rabbi Yitzchok WolpinThis week we are privileged to read the portion Vayishlach. Yaakov was heading back to his homeland, after many years of absence due to fear of Eisav. After leaving Levon’s home, Yaakov sent messengers (Angels) to meet with Eisov, and he prepared himself for a meeting with Eisov. Yaakov prepared three methods for his meeting. First he sent sizable gifts for Eisov, he also prayed to Hashem to save him in the event of confrontation, and thirdly he prepared for war. He split up his camp into two groups, so that if one is confronted the other camp will be saved. We learn how Yaakov returned to pick up some jars he left behind on the opposite side of the canal. Yaakov was confronted by the Angel representing Eisov, and he wrestled with him. Yaakov won the battle and made the angel admit that the blessings were rightfully his. We learn about the meeting between Yaakov and Eisov and the desire of Yaakov to part from him as quickly as possible. We learn about the tragic event with Dina, and the response from Shimon and Levi. We also learn about the tragic passing of Rochel, during childbirth (of Binyomin), and the passing of Yitzchok at age 180. The portion ends with the names of the ministers of Eisov.<br />
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The Torah tells us that Yaakov was afraid and he had fear and Rashi comments that, he was afraid he would get killed and he feared that maybe he would kill others. Many commentaries ask, we learned in the previous portion that Hashem promised Yaakov that he will be with him and watch over him, why was he afraid ? It is well known that the Chozeh of Lublin was extremely humble, and he once expressed about himself, that even if he heard from G-d directly, that he is a Tzadik (pious man), he would believe that it was true just for that second, but a second later he would be worried maybe he lost his greatness. This helps understand the way Ramban explains the fear of Yaakov. Ramban says that great people are constantly worried that they shouldn’t lose their level of holiness and that maybe according to the talents and strengths they were given, they didn’t do enough. So although Yaakov received a promise from Hashem that he would watch over him, maybe, he feared he was no longer worthy of the blessing.<br />
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The Chidushei Harim says that Yaakov was praying not for himself, but for the future generations and his fear was for his descendants when/if they would be in this situation they should be saved from the evil forces who want to destroy them. This has been proven over and over again. Unfortunately in many generations there were/are forces who thought/think they will erase the Jews from the face of the earth and Hashem saves us, as we read in the Hagodo, on Pesach, Shebchol dor vodor omdim oleinu lichaloseinu, v’Hakodosh Boruch Hu Matzileinu miyodom.<br />
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One more idea I’d like to share with you regarding the outlook on life of Yaakov verses the outlook of Eisov. In Bireishis 33/5 when Eisov finally reaches Yaakov he saw the women and the children, and said “who are these to you”? And Yaakov replied, “the children which Hashem granted me”. The Divrei Shmuel of Slonim explains the dialogue between the two. Eisov saw Yaakov has four wives, and he thought to himself, this is my world, how does it come to a holy man like Yaakov ? Yaakov’s response was the purpose of marriage to these women was to have these children. It is known that a Baron once asked the holy Rebbe of Rizhin what’s the difference between me and you, I eat and drink and so do you, I have a wife and children and so do you. The difference, replied the Ruzhiner, is that you live because you want to eat and drink, I eat and drink because I want to live. You have children because you have a wife, I have a wife because I wanted to bring children to the world. It is all about putting things into perspective.<br />
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Gut Shabbos<br />
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Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-58883366703118833252018-11-22T04:51:00.004-05:002018-11-22T04:56:41.943-05:00Agudah Convention - 5779The Agudah convention will be starting tomorrow (Thursday night). Though the crowd is not as large as previous years there are still a respectable amount of participants.<br />
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Maran Rav Aharon Schechter Shlita, The Zkan Roshei Hayeshiva in America, Rav Perlow, Rav Yerucham Olshin Shlita, Rav Yaakov Horowitz Shlita & Maran Rav Kaminetsky Shlita are expected to attend. Maran Harav D. Feinstein Shlita will be attending for a short time.<br />
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The anticipated event will help clarify the torah position on many world & National events. This event is for many the wellspring for Da'as Torah regarding many issues.<br />
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Utenu Kovod L'Torah!<br />
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Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-50578957207563551532018-11-16T07:01:00.002-05:002018-11-16T07:01:26.938-05:00Dvar Torah - Vayeitzei - Rabbi Yitzchok WolpinThis week we are privileged to read the portion of Vayeitzei. We learn that Yaakov escaped from his parents home due to the threat on his life, from his brother Eisov. Yaakov stopped to study for fourteen years and then headed toward Choron, to fulfill the command of his parents, that he marry someone from “their” family. We learn how Yaakov met Rochel, the daughter of Lovon at the well. He was impressed with her and wanted to marry her. We learn how Lovon fooled Yaakov by giving him Leah and not Rochel, and the great sacrifice Rochel made not to cause her sister embarrassment. only later Lovon agreed to grant Yaakov his second daughter, Rochel. We learn how Yaakov worked hard and Lovon kept changing his pay. We learn about the births of the holy children of Yaakov, the foundation of Klal Yisroel. After the birth of Yosef Yaakov can no longer stay with Lovon. Hashem tells him it’s time to return. A dispute erupted as Lovon expressed his dissatisfaction of his children’s departure. Hashem warned Lovon not to harm Yaakov. They set feet back to the Holy Land.<br />
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There’s so much we can learn from the dealings between Yaakov and Lovon. In general all these portions about the history of our forefathers are full of deep lessons. I want to share one important lesson from this week’s portion.<br />
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When Yaakov reached Choron he had a discussion with the Shepards as to why they were just standing at the well. They declared that they waited for a group of Shepard’s to appear in order to remove the stone covering the well. Yaakov walked over and just removed on his own like he took a cap off a bottle. We need to understand what was the reason Yaakov did this, was he trying to show then his physical strength ? If so, why ? Also why is it important for the Torah to tell us about this detail ? There’s a tremendous lesson Yaakov wanted to teach them and us as well. If one really wants to accomplish something, nothing can stand in the way, all one needs to do is try, not stand on the side and say I can’t. We find the same situation (in the portion of Shmos), when Basya removed Moshe from the water. Moshe was placed in the water far from an arm stretch, however she was determined to save the child and stuck out her arm, and the Medrash teaches us that her arm became longer until she reached the box in which Moshe lye. We need to do ours and we will see that Hashem will help, and the impossible can be achieved.<br />
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Gut Shabbos!<br />
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<br />Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-36048486873424600362018-10-26T07:15:00.001-04:002018-10-26T07:15:31.861-04:00Dvar Torah - Vayeiro - Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin <br />
This week we are privileged to read the portion of Vayeiro. We learn in the end of the previous portion that Avrohom performed a Bris Mila on himself at age ninety nine, and this portion begins with Hashem’s appearance to Avrohom on the third day. Avrohom, despite being in physical pain, was more bothered by the fact that no guest showed up, due to heat waves. Hashem sends three angels, they appeared as people, to allow Avrohom the ability to fulfill the mitzva of hachnosas orchim (hosting guest). Avrohom despite his senior age and his frail body, prepared a feast for his guest. At the meal they revealed to him that they were sent by Hashem to inform him that he will be blessed with a child at this time next year, and also to heal him. They continued on to Sedom ato destroy the evil cities of Sedom and Amora and to save Lot in the merit of Avrohom. Avrohom pleaded with Hashem to spare the evil people, however their awful behavior, and the absence of pious men caused their ultimate destruction. We learn that Lot’s wife turned into a pillar of salt due to her curiosity to see what transpired with Sedom during their escape. Later we learn of Yitzchok’s birth and the need to get Yishmoel away from Yitzchok to avoid bad influence. We also learn of the great challenge Avrohom had gone thru, by being willing to sacrifice his holy son Yitzchok, by G-d’s command. Obviously it was only a test, from which we merit until this day. The portion concludes with the birth of Rivkah, later to be the spouse of Yitzchok and one of our holy Matriarchs.<br />
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We find in the beginning of the portion that Avrohom offered his guest a meal and their response was kein taase kaasher dibarto - do so, as you have spoken. The Slonimer Rebbe explains, we often find people that do a lot of good deeds, but it does not elevate them. They may perform acts of kindness and do a lot for others, however they frequently remain simple people. Why is that ? Says the Slonimer Rebbe, it is because their language is not clean and that is a basic for a person to be able to be uplifted and grow spiritually. In the absence of clean language one cannot grow. This is what the angels told Avrohom your words should match your deeds. Good deeds along with good words, pure action and pure speech are the ingredients for growth. (Maybe this is why we start Yom Kippur with Kol Nidrei, so that we nullify improper speech, before we begin a new page).<br />
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I want to share another idea with you. The Medrash states , that when Hashem sent Avrohom to the Land Moriah, to bring Yitzchok for an offering, he used the term Lech Licho - go for your own good. The same term Lech Licho was used in the previous portion, when Hashem to Avrom to leave his land, his birthplace, his father’s home to an unknown land. The Medrash discusses, which one was greater, the first Lech Licho or the second ? The Medrash concludes the second one was much greater. We need to understand what was even the rational to say that leaving one’s birthplace and land would be greater than sacrificing a son born at one hundred years old ? Although the Medrash concludes that the second Lech Licho was greater, one needs to understand what was even the debate. There’s an important lesson here, to teach us the greatness of unconditional faith - emuna pshuta. Since by the first Lech Licho Avrohom did not even know to which land he was going, it was a complete act of unconditional faith, maybe it was greater than Lech Licho of the Akeido, where he knew to which land he was going and for what purpose. This is the other side of the debate.<br />
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Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-31156897750887548242018-10-05T05:55:00.000-04:002018-10-05T05:55:39.115-04:00Dvar Torah - Bireishis - from Rabbi Yitzchok WolpinThis week we are privileged to begin a new cycle of Torah reading, beginning with the portion of Bireishis. The portion teaches us what was created every day of the week and that from the beginning of creation Shabbos was sanctified. We also learn that Adam was created in the image of G-d. We learn about the sin of Adam and Chava (Eve) eating from the tree of knowledge. We learn about Kayin and Hevel and the tragic ending of Hevel's life. The portion concludes with the birth of Noach.<br />
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This Shabbos is referred to as Shabbos Bireishis (beginning). The holy Chassidic masters said that this Shabbos is a foundation for the entire year. It is the first Shabbos after the high Holidays, and it is incumbent upon us to prove that we didn’t just serve G-d externally, but that we internalized what we said, and accepted. The Chida also writes that on Shabbos Bireishis one should be particularly careful to conduct him/herself properly as it is not a good sign if immediately after the High Holy Days one falls back. At least the beginning should be strong. The Rebbe of Tzanz would refer to Shabbos Bireishis as follows: when a businessman goes to an exhibition to buy goods in his field of business, he quickly purchases everything he feels would be profitable for his business. However it is only when he comes home that he begins to go through his purchases to see what will be more productive and profitable. So too, it is with the month of Tishrei. The entire month we were busy grabbing mitzvohs, correcting what needs to be corrected and now we need to work on implementing what needs to be implemented. This is the work of Shabbos Bireishis.<br />
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When Reb Shneur Zalman of Liadi (author of Tanya) was imprisoned in St Petersburg, over false allegations, the government tried sending different people to talk to him and sniff out how much he's working to topple the Zarist authority. Amongst these people, they sent a very prominent and learned minister, who entered the prison disguised as an ordinary fellow prisoner. When he entered the room the Rebbe stood up for him and he said to him that he knows he's somewhat connected to malchus (kingdom). The minister was shocked, as they never met and there was no way he could have recognized him ... He began to have an intellectual conversation with R' Shneur Zalman. Amongst the questions he asked was, it is written in the Torah that after the Adam ate from the tree of knowledge Hashem asked him AYEKO - where are you. Why did Hashem ask Adam "Ayeko" , doesn't G-d know everything ? The Rebbe responded that this a call to every individual eternally to check on himself where he is, and he continued to tell the minister, Hashem gave you this amount of years, this amount of months and this amount of days, what did you do with it ? Where are you ? He calculated exactly the age, the years, months and days of the minister sitting in front of him. The minister was shaken up, and later ended up being one of the greatest defenders of the Tzadik before the judge, who ultimately freed him.<br />
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The message to us is, after an entire elevated season where we served Hashem more than throughout the year, and now we go back to routine, remember AYEKO!<br />
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Gut Shabbos, and<br />
A healthy winter,<br />
Rabbi Yitzchok WolpinSite Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-51492226455807200312018-09-17T09:29:00.002-04:002018-09-17T09:29:52.249-04:00Erecting Yom Kippur - Rabbi Yitzchok WolpinThe holiest day of the year, Yom Kippur is approaching and we are all preparing to be cleansed and merit an inscription and a seal in the book of Life.<br />
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On the day preceding Yom Kippur there's a special mitzvah to eat and drink more than usual. This is derived from a phrase in Torah Vayikra 23/32, you shall afflict your souls on the ninth day in the evening. The Talmud asks is the fast on the ninth ? It is on the tenth that we fast. Says the Talmud (Rosh Hashono 9a), "this is to teach us, that if one eats and drinks on the ninth it will be considered as he fasted both days". The question we still have, why is it that the Torah tells us that it is a mitzvah to eat, with this type of language (affliction), why not say, eat and drink ? I would to share with you two approaches to explain this.<br />
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The Torah wants to teach us how to fulfill this mitzvah. One can eat like a Jew with proper ethic and thought and one can eat and his whole mind and soul is in the plate. The Torah wants to tell you that when fulfilling this mitzvah, your mind should be on the mitzvah and not engulfed in the food, just as if you were fasting.<br />
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There's another approach. We know that when one does a mitzvah and he toils for it and it comes with great difficulty, the reward is much greater. This is why the Torah tells us that if one eats and drinks on the ninth it will be considered as if he fasted, so that we should know that the reward will be greater than just fulfilling an easy mitzvah, but rather it will be rewarded like a mitzvah that came with hardship.<br />
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The holy Berdichev Rebbe once walked in to Kol Nidrei (opening prayer of Yom Kippur), and began searching under the tables and benches. No one understood what he was searching for. He then lifted his head to the Heavens and said "Holy L-rd! You commanded the Jewish people to eat and drink today, I don't see even one drunk person in this synagogue. Imagine if other nations had been given this mitzvah. This was his way of defending Klal Yisroel.<br />
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In closing, I'd like to ask all, if I offended anyone, please be kind enough and forgive me, and I'm sure G-d will do the same.<br />
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May we merit to be sealed in the book of Life, for a sweet year, with spiritual and material growth in good health with nachas and happiness.<br />
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Gmar Chasima Tova,Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-55483695728285928622018-09-07T09:21:00.002-04:002018-09-07T09:21:40.222-04:00Dvar Torah Parshas Nitzovim - from Harav Rabbi Yitzchok WolpinWe are about to usher in the Shabbos which closes 5778. We know that Shabbos is the source of all blessings. As we look forward to a better year, let us work on the preparation thru celebrating this holy Shabbos with greater observance, greater emotion and stronger commitment to utilizing every free moment of the Shabbos for Torah study and fulfilling more mitzvohs. Hopefully, we will all merit a sweet new year filled with blessing, material and spiritual.<br />
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This week we are privileged to read the portion of Nitzovim. The portion discusses the importance of everyone, regardless of education or financial background, being bound to Torah observance. The covenant between us and Hashem is meant for everyone. We are all obligated to repair what we did wrong. Although the portion is short, it is huge in content.<br />
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The Torah states in Devorim chapter 30 verse 11: For this commandment which I command you this day, is not hidden from you, nor is it far off.<br />
12. It is not in heaven, that you should say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it to us, that we may hear it, and do it?<br />
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13. Nor is it beyond the sea, that you should say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it to us, that we may hear it, and do it?<br />
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14. But the word is very near to you, in your mouth, and in your heart, that you may do it.<br />
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These verses are referring to all of us regarding Torah study. One shall not say the Torah is out of reach.<br />
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Reb Yehoshua of Dzhikov explains the verse Ki Korov eilecho hadovor meod - But the word is very near to you, the word meod also means finances. This, says the Dzhikov Rebbe, is a hint to those who are tied up and don’t have the ability to study Torah as much as they should. There’s an option for them to be rewarded just as if they were studying, that is, thru financially supporting those who learn and teach Torah. By doing so one will be rewarded as if he too studied, just as it was with the the two brothers Yisoschor and Zvulun. (That is the reference to the word Meod as in b’chol meodecha, we read daily in Shma).<br />
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There's another important lesson from these verses. When someone feels that he's struggling to keep a specific mitzvah, the Torah tells us the way to deal with it, to learn the laws of that specific mitzvah in the Torah this will bring a desire in our hearts to fulfill the mitzvah. That is the reference in "your mouth and in your heart, that you may do it".<br />
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May we merit to properly prepare for the new year, and merit to be inscribed in the book of life.<br />
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Ksiva vchasima Tova<br />
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Gut Shabbos,<br />
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<br />Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-56167350555111805912018-07-27T05:59:00.001-04:002018-07-27T05:59:08.572-04:00Dvar Torah - Voeschanan - From Rabbi Yitzchok WolpinThis week we are privileged to read the portion of Voeschanan. The Shabbos is also called “Shabbos Nachamu”. Nachamu means be consoled (comforted). This name comes from the words in our haftorah “Nachamu, Nachamu Ami" - console, console my nation, says Hashem. This portion begins with Moshe expressing his desire to enter the Holy Land - Eretz Yisroel, and Hashem's refusal to grant him this wish. Hashem told Moshe to go up on the highest point of the mountain and from there he will see Eretz Yisroel, but he will not enter. Hashem commands Moshe to strengthen Yehoshua, for he will bring the Jewish people into Eretz Yisroel and they will inhabit the land. We learn the importance of remembering the event at Mt Sinai. In this week's portion the ten commandments are repeated, and the first portion of Shma is also written in this portion.<br />
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The Tolna Rebbe OBM, once asked an obvious question. We find that Moshe begged Hashem to allow him to enter the Holy land and Hashem responds so sharply, "don't continue to talk to me on this topic"! Why such a sharp response ? The question is even greater, because the whole reason that Moshe wanted to go into Eretz Yisroel was only, so that he can perform the mitzvohs that one can only perform in the Holy Land, so why did he deserve such a sharp response? Says the Tolna Rebbe, Moshe was fascinated by the Mitzvah of Yishuv Eretz Yisroel, inhabiting the land of Israel. This is a mitzvah that one can fulfill around the clock every second of the day just by living in Eretz Yisroel. Moshe had an extreme desire to be able to fulfill such a mitzvah. Hashem had other plans for Moshe, but in order not disappoint his great desire to fulfill a 24/7 mitzvah, he commanded him not to talk to him again regarding this topic. Now, by just merely refraining from talking about this topic he was fulfilling a mitzvah every second. So what seems to be a harsh response, was actually a method of rewarding Moshe with the possibility to be able to observe a 24/7 mitzvah.<br />
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May we merit to be consoled by Hashem speedily, with the rebuilding of Yerusholayim and the holy Temple.Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-65765857496996572502018-07-25T08:38:00.001-04:002018-07-25T08:38:16.676-04:00Tefillos for Hagaon Harav Reuven Feinstein and His RebbetzinWe regret to inform you that Harav Reuven Feinstein, Rosh Hayeshiva Mesivta Tiferes Yerushalayim and Chaver Hanesius of Agudas Yisroel of America, as well as his Rebbetzin, were in a car accident earlier today. The Rosh Hayeshiva is reportedly badly bruised but in stable condition. The Rebbetzin reportedly has internal bleeding and is undergoing surgery.<br />
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Please say Tehillim for Sholom Reuven ben Shima and Chava Sorah bas Ita Devora, l'refuah shleimah b'soch she'ar cholei Yisroel, and may we share besoros tovos.<br />
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Rabbi Chaim Dovid Zwiebel<br />
Executive Vice President<br />
Agudath Israel of AmericaSite Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-57257156780851831532018-07-25T08:37:00.000-04:002018-07-25T08:37:06.494-04:00UPDATE: Rav Reuven Feinstein Released From Hospital Following Crash, Rebbitzen Underwent Successful Surgery | Yeshiva World News<a href="https://www.theyeshivaworld.com/news/general/1563918/tehillim-hagaon-harav-reuven-feinstein-his-rebbitzen-in-car-accident.html">the Yeshiva World</a>Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-11425290875226887012018-07-20T06:21:00.000-04:002018-07-20T06:21:24.105-04:00Dvar Torah - Dvorim - From Rabbi Yitzchok WolpinThis week are privileged to begin the fifth book of Torah, the book of Dvorim, also known as Mishne Torah (second Torah). Moshe began preparing for his departure from this world. The last thirty six days of his life were dedicated to teaching and reviewing laws of Torah, and rebuking Klal Yisroel for their inappropriate deeds. This portion begins with hints to all the events which took place over forty years of their journey thru the desert.<br />
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This portion is always read on the Shabbos preceding Tisha B’Av. We must realize that all the tragic events which took place throughout the years of our exile and the fact that we are still in exile, is due to our lack of effort to get closer to Hashem. The Baal Shem Tov teaches that these weeks are specifically auspicious for reaching spiritual heights. The Magid of Kozhnitz translates the verse in Eicho, “all those who pursue her, reach her Bein Hamtzorim”, this is referring to those who pursue closeness to the shechina, can find her Bein Hamtzorim. This is compared to a king who left his palace, while he is away from home he is more accessible.<br />
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This year the Ninth of Av falls on Shabbos. All the laws of Tisha B’Av are delayed until after Shabbos. The fast and all other rules are observed beginning Saturday eve until Sunday night. The Talmud in Megila 5b states tha Rabeinu Hakodosh (R’ Yehuda Hanosi) wanted to totally annul Tisha B’av when it fell on Shabbos, due to the fact that it is delayed in honor of Shabbos and one it is anyway postponed, let it be annulled. However, the sages did not agree. Regarding the passing of Rebbe, the Talmud Yerushalmy tells us that Rabeinu Hakodosh passed away on a Friday afternoon and despite the fact that everyone attended his funeral and burial on Friday afternoon, there was still time to cook for and prepare food for Shabbos. The sun set was delayed for several hours. Says the Bnei Yisoschor, these two stories are related. Because Rebbe stood up for the honor of Shabbos, the Shabbos now, after his passing, defended his honor.<br />
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Although it is Tisha B'av, Shabbos takes precedence. A hint to this is found in this portion. In Devorim 1/6 the Torah says Hashem Eloikenu diber eileinu bichorev Leimor, Rav lochem sheves bohor haze - the Tiferes Shloime states that this verse can be explained slightly different than the literal translation. Hashem spoke to us Bichorev - when the Temple was destroyed (from the word Churbon, destruction), Rav lochem- it is great for you, Sheves - are the same letters as Shabbos, meaning that this Shabbos is great, bohor haze - in this great mountain, referring to the yetzer hora which is compared to a mountain. By strengthening our commitment and appreciation for Shabbos we will be strengthened in this golus and merit to withstand all evil.<br />
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Let us yearn for closeness to Hashem, by strengthening our commitment to the sanctity of Shabbos and thereby we will bring about the ultimate redemption.<br />
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Gut Shabbos<br />
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Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-86380256183227055482018-07-15T15:37:00.002-04:002018-07-15T15:37:21.524-04:00BARUCH DAYAN HAEMESOne of the Gedolei Haposkim in Eretz Yisroel was Niftar on Layl Shabbos. Maran Harav Sraya Dublitzky, who resided in Bnei Brak was niftar on Friday night at the age of 93.<br />
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A talmid of Maran the Chazon Ish zt"l and of many Sefardi Mekubalim he was a light for the Bnei Brak community. The Levaya was today attended by thousands.<br />
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He authored close to sixty seforim the dealt with many contemporary Halachic issues.<br />
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Yehi Zichro Baruch - Utenu Kavod Ltorah Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-48327226918810303542018-07-02T10:34:00.000-04:002018-07-02T10:34:00.444-04:00Rabbi Y.D. Alter Speaking At Biala BB Melave Malka In Honor Of Shovavim 5773<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-29034475610205528252018-06-20T16:30:00.002-04:002018-06-20T16:30:53.166-04:00The Gerrer Rebbe The Pnei Menachem Zt"l Dancing At A Wedding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Site Editorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13414259647319812197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9005926946964848617.post-77788639097973495592018-06-13T04:32:00.001-04:002018-06-13T04:32:43.549-04:00Current Events and Current Crises: A Torah Response<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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