Hakhel Email Community Awareness Bulletin
JULY 2016 DAILY EMAIL ARCHIVE
23 Tammuz
MODIM AND THE THREE WEEKS:
Except on Shabbos or under certain circumstances, it is an established
custom amongst Ashkenazim that the bracha of Shehechiyanu not be recited
within the Three Weeks. We do have the ability, however, to recite something
very similar to Shehechiyanu three times a day even during the Three Week
period--and even on Tisha B’Av! As a reader pointed out to us, in the Modim
D’Rabbanan we essentially paraphrase the bracha of Shehechiyanu as we thank
Hashem “Ahl Shehecheyisanu V’Kiyamtanu--for giving us life and
sustaining us.” Moreover, we then add a wonderful request--Kein
Techayeinu U’Sekayemeinu V’Se’esof Galuyoseinu Bechatzros Kadshecha…so
may You continue to give us life and sustain us and gather our exiles to the
Beis HaMikdash…!
Hakhel
Note One: Practical Suggestion: Recite Modim D’Rabbanan from a Siddur--with
Kavannah!
Hakhel
Note Two: Fascinatingly, the Sefer Ishei Yisrael, which contains the
Pesakim of HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, writes that if the Shaliach
Tzibbur mistakenly recited Modim D’Rabbanan in Chazaras HaShatz, rather than
the regular Modim--he is Yotzei, and it is a valid Chazaras HaShatz.
Hakhel
Note Three: In this week’s Pirkei Avos (1:2), Shimon HaTzaddik teaches that
the world was created for the accomplishment of three goals: Torah, Avoda
and Gemilas Chasodim. Rabbeinu Yonah (ibid.) explains that in the time
of the Beis HaMikdash, Avodah means bringing Karbanos. At the current time,
when there is no Beis HaMikdash, Rabbeinu Yonah continues, Tefillah takes
the place of Karbanos. Indeed, Dovid HaMelech exclaims in Tehillim: “Hashem
Sefasai Tiftach U’fi Yagid Tehilasecha--may my Tefillah stand in the
place of a Karbon to effect forgiveness for me for intentional and
non-intentional sins.” Oh, how we must appreciate the importance of our
Tefillos--and if we find them lacking, make efforts to improve them in some
way. Sincerely Davening for Teshuvah, for the Geulah, and having Kavannah in
these words of Modim may be a wonderful place to begin!
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HAKARAS HATOV APPLIED!
“As a
rule, Rabbi Avraham Pam did not accept gifts and tried to avoid accepting
favors from others. He usually made his own arrangements for traveling to
Simchas, saying that he found it easier this way. If he needed to go
somewhere for personal reasons, he preferred taking the bus or subway rather
than asking someone to drive him. When, on occasion, Rav Pam did accept a
favor, he felt indebted to the person. He therefore had a special notebook
in which he would record information which he could use to “return the
favor”. In one entry he wrote, “So-and-so gave me a ride today. He has a 21
year old daughter in need of a shidduch.” When the Shuvu organization,
founded by Rav Pam, launched a fund-raising campaign by mail, the return
envelopes came to Rav Pam’s house. Rav Pam himself opened these envelopes,
and when he would meet someone who had sent a donation, he would thank him
saying: ‘You’ve done something big!’”
[Excerpted from the The Life and Ideals of Rabbi Avraham Yaakov HaKohen
Pam (Artscroll/Mesorah), as brought in Let There Be Rain by Rabbi
Shimon Finkelman, Shlita, and Rabbi Zechariah Wallerstein, Shlita (Artsroll/Mesorah)]
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VE’ROMAMTANU MIKOL HALESHONOS--You Exalted us Above All the Tongues:
This
important phrase from the Yom Tov davening is explained in a stunning way by
HaRav Shlomo Mandel, Shlita (in the name, he believes, of the Bnai
Yissaschar): One should understand the term as follows--there is not a
single language in the entire world that can describe the beauty of K’lal
Yisrael! This being the case--we certainly must look within and see
the beauty within ourselves--and the beauty of each other. Even if another
has hurt you, frustrated you, disappointed you, or not performed in a way
that was expected of him--remember that you have probably disappointed
others in similar ways as well--and you would not want to be remembered by
these disappointments either. We are all uplifted and beautiful in a way
that no language on earth can describe--let us be sure not bring others
down--for we bring ourselves down together with them!
---------------------------------------------
THIS WEEK’S FOCUS:
This
week we focused on the Tenth Bracha of Shemone Esrei--Kibutz Galios--Gathering
in our Exiles! The bracha concludes with the words Baruch
Atta Hashem Mekabeitz Nidchei Amo Yisrael--Who gathers in the dispersed
of His people Yisrael. HaRav Shimon Schwab, Z’tl, teaches that this bracha
ends in the present tense because we have such Emunah that the Geulah take
place--we can ‘taste’ the ingathering of the exiles! HaRav Chaim
Friedlander, Z’tl, teaches that the term Nidchei--the
dispersed--is a crucial one, for it is based in the Pasuk of “...U’va’u
HaOvdim B’Eretz Ashur Vehanidachim B’’Eretz Mitzrayim...--and those who
are lost in Ashur and dispersed in Mitzrayim will return to Yerushalayim (Yeshayah
27:13). This means that even those who may have been previously ‘lost’
their Yiddishkeit may be gathered in as well (obviously based upon factors
beyond our understanding). One thing is for sure though--those who will meet
the criteria of Amo Yisrael (,those who do Hashem’s will
show that they want to be his nation)--as the bracha concludes--they
will all surely be gathered in. What gives us even additional hope and
aspiration is that, as the Kuntres Avodas HaTefillah teaches, when
the Geulah comes, Yisrael--including the Aseres HaShevatim will be
reunited--this time inseparably and invincibly! The conclusion
of this bracha spirits us to pray for the day!
---------------------------------------------
FROM A READER:
“Pinchos was given a ‘Bris of Shalom’ by Hashem. I would like to suggest
that everyone consider the absolute Pashut P’shat of these words--in reward
for Pinchos acting in such a self-sacrificing way for the honor of Hashem,
Pinchos was awarded the gift of peace--inner peace; this means tranquility
and calmness in his personal life and his personal decisions. If one
acts with alacrity and unrelenting dedication towards the Torah and Mitzvos,
his closeness to Hashem will build a great Emunah within him. He will
thus be at peace. I think that this is a lesson that we can all internalize
and aspire to.”
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TODAY--THE YAHRZEIT OF HARAV MOSHE CORDEVERO:
Today is the Yahrzeit of the unparalleled HaRav Moshe Cordevero, Z’tl,
perhaps most well known for the Sefer Pardes Rimonim and the Sefer
Tomer Devorah, among his many other works. According to the Arizal’s
testimony, the procession bringing HaRav Cordevero to burial was preceded by
a pillar of fire, and, because he was so pure, his death could only be
attributed to the chait of Adam HaRishon. In Chapter 4 of the Tomer
Devorah, HaRav Cordevero writes: “A person can purify his Yetzer Hara
by leading it towards good, and then even his Yetzer Hara becomes rooted in
holiness.”
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TOMORROW--THE YAHRZEIT OF HARAV YAAKOV YOSEF: For
New York City Metropolitan Area Residents: Tomorrow, Shabbos Kodesh, is the
114th Yahrzeit of HaRav Yaakov Yosef, the first and only Chief Rabbi of New
York over 100 years ago. His kever in Brooklyn, New York is known as a
remarkable makom of Tefillah. For those who wish to visit his kever today or
on Sunday, the address of the cemetery is Union Field Cemetery, 8211 Cypress
Avenue, Ridgewood, NY.
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SUNDAY--THE YAHRZEIT OF HARAV MEIR
MAI’APTA: Sunday, 25
Tammuz, is the Yahrzeit of
the HaRav Meir
Mai’Apta, the
Ba’al Ohr
LaShamayim. A reader
has provided
us with a beautiful
copy of the Tefillah that
the Ba’al
Ohr LaShamayim composed,
which would most
certainly be appropriate to
recite on his
Yahrtzeit. The tefillah is
available at
http://tinyurl.com/25ngcr7
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WE CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
A. We
have been advised that the Halacha Hotline of the Five Towns and Far
Rockaway (under the leadership of Rav Binyomin Forst, Shlita) is available
for those who may be stuck in traffic on Erev Shabbos, and for other
emergencies. The Hotline also has regular hours. The Hotline’s number is:
516-239-2500.
B. We have referred in the past to the great zechus one engenders by being
mekabel Shabbos early for the sake of bringing Kedushas Shabbos into
one’s life sooner. If at all possible, consider bringing Shabbos in ten
minutes (at least) early this week--as a zechus for Acheinu B’nei Yisrael!
C. We
remind everyone of the importance of having Kavannah when reciting Al
Naharos Bavel (Tehillim 137), on weekdays, and Shir HaMa’alos BeShuv
Hashem Es Shivas Tzion (Tehillim 126) on Shabbos and Yom Tov, in each
case before bentsching. Rabbi Avrohom Chaim Feuer, Shlita, in his classic
Tehillim translation (Artscroll), points out the great difference between
Al Naharos Bavel and Shir HaMa’alos. Al Naharos Bavel
reminds us of our entering into Galus, as we are exiled into Babylonia
. The Shir HaMa’alos, on the other hand, provides detail as to
how our final redemption will appear to be a dream because the wonders that
will accompany it will exceed our greatest expectations. Shabbos, which is
May’ein Olam Haba, is a perfect time for us, as exiled Jews, to get a
glimpse of our future elevation and glory, as Hashem returns us to Tzion.
Let us appropriately rejoice--as we sing the words with Kavannah!
D.
The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 270) writes that on Friday evenings in Shul
it is the custom to recite the Perek of BaMeh Madlikin. BaMeh
Madlikin is the second Perek of Mesechta Shabbos, which describes the
Halachos of Erev Shabbos (mostly of lighting candles), through the point of
the Ba’al HaBayis gently directing that the candles be lit. There is a
stark and obvious question. Of all Chapters of Mishnayos in Shas--this
Chapter seems to be the least practical to be recited--as, after all,
all of the Erev Shabbos preparations including Hadlakas Neiros have just
been completed--and will not be applicable again for seven days hence! We
suggest that the reason it is our Minhag to recite this particular Chapter
is in order to emphasize the importance of Torah study on Shabbos--not only
for the practical aspect of the review of Hilchos Shabbos, but also as Torah
study for its own sake--even if it may not have any practical and immediate
application!
E. In
this week’s Parasha, we learned that the Korban Mussaf of Shabbos consisted
of two kevasim, both brought as a Korban Olah, and not as a Korban
Chatas. A Korban Olah is typically brought for the violation of a Mitzvas
Asei in some form, or for an improper thought. The Ba’alei Mussar derive
from the fact that the Korban Mussaf of Shabbos is only Olos--that one must
especially focus on having proper thoughts on Shabbos. Even if we begin to
think about financial or business matters in a positive way which may be
technically permissible (the nice amount of money one made in the previous
week, how much money one has in the bank, or how successful one was in a
business meeting or a business relationship in the previous week)--he should
nevertheless try to banish business and financial thoughts from his mind on
Shabbos--as they can easily move into an area which is not permissible on
Shabbos because it causes distress--such as what one forgot to do on Friday,
what one needs to order on Monday, how that supplier shouldn’t have done
that, what new advertising needs to be done …. Shabbos is a wonderful time
for one to work-on thought purification!
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WHY IS HE THE BEST?
HaRav Chaim Shmuelevitz, Z’tl, relates the following now famous story:
When HaRav Chaim was learning as a bochur in the Grodno Yeshiva, he once
went to visit his uncle, HaRav Avraham Yoffen, Z’tl, the Rosh Yeshiva of
Novardok. While there, he asked his uncle who the “best” bochur in the
Yeshiva was. His uncle toured the yeshiva with him. He pointed to one
young man and said “He is the greatest in-depth studier we have.” He
pointed to another bochur and said, “He is our biggest masmid.” About
another bochur he said, “He is the sharpest that we have.” About another,
“He has the greatest body of knowledge.” Rav Chaim pressed his uncle--but in
the end, who is the best bochur in the yeshiva?! The Rosh Yeshiva
pointed to another student whom he had not previously mentioned.
“Why is he the best?!”
“Because he is the greatest ‘mevakesh’--the
greatest seeker in his service of Hashem.” This young man turned out to be
the Steipeler Gaon, Z’tl.
Thus, we see, that even if we may not be
blessed with the greatest memory, the most proficient skills, or even simply
the most dedicated hasmada, each and every one of us still has the
ability to be the best, if we would only excel in the aspect of personal
bakasha--in our sincere quest and drive to fulfill our potential in this
world.
When we look around at others in this world,
we can see the failed lives of those like Bilam, in last week’s Parasha, who
had such capabilities of greatness, yet squandered them over temporal and
fleeting desires. On the other hand, there are people like Pinchas who rise
above what others, and perhaps even they, perceive as their limitations, and
reach greatness through their actions.
Now, while there is a concept of “Yesh
Koneh Olamo B’Shaah Achas”--one can acquire greatness in one hour, as
Pinchas initially did (and went on from there), there is a second, more
paced road which the mevakesh can follow. It is the serious and
deliberate growth in areas which one has not previously developed. We find
this in this week’s Parasha as well--with the life of Yehoshua Bin Nun.
There are those who may have been stunned with his selection to be the next
leader--were there not other, more recognized and great personages of the
generation? Yehoshua’s bakasha--his drive to stay associated and
learn from Moshe Rabbeinu on a day-in, day-out basis--his relentless
quest--made him the next leader over and above everyone else.
Indeed, in Parsha Thoughts, Rabbi Aron
Moshe Jacobsohn, Shlita points out that Pinchos was an ‘ordinary citizen’--
NOT a Kohen--and BECAME a Kohen because of his action!
Each one of us can and should demonstrate to
Hashem--and to ourselves--that we are also a mevakesh. Our measured
steps need not necessarily demonstrate anything superlative, they need only
show our desire to grow bigger and better. Ask yourself at the end of the
day--was I a mevakesh today?
We can be like Yehoshua Bin Nun, we can be
like the best bachur in the Yeshiva--no special skills are necessary--other
than to be a mevakesh!
=================================
22 Tammuz
AN AMAZING THOUGHT:
HaRav Yecheskel Levenstein, Z’tl, brings from HaRav Chaim Vital, Z’tl (Sha’arei
Kedusha, Sha’ar Aleph) that one must be more careful to avoid
Middos Ra’os than to perform Mitzvos Asei and Mitzvos Lo Sa’aseh--for
when one is a Ba’al Middos Tovos it is much easier for him to perform
Mitzvos--for one who is a Ba’al Middos Tovos recognizes the goodness that
Hashem bestows him with, and accordingly wants to give Hashem Nachas
Ruach--which he recognizes is doing His will by the performance of
Mitzvos!
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REMEMBER--IT IS A PERSONAL COMMUNICATION:
In the Sefer Praying with Fire 2, Rabbi Heshy Kleinman, Shlita, goes
into detail to explain the great significance of personal communication with
Hashem. The Chofetz Chaim, for instance, told one newly inducted soldier
into the Russian army who would be taken far away from Yiddishkeit and its
practice that the one thing that he must continue to do is speak to Hashem
throughout the day. The Chofetz Chaim does not limit this suggestion,
however, to one inducted into an army--but applies it to all. HaRav Avigdor
Miller, Z’tl, similarly teaches that: (i) a businessman should daven to
Hashem when a customer enters or when going to visit a customer; (ii) a
patient should daven to Hashem before and after visiting a health care
professional; and (iii) when entering one’s car, even when it isn’t for a
distance in which Tefillas Haderech would otherwise be warranted--one should
still daven to Hashem to have a safe and successful trip. As the Chernobler
Rebbe, Z’tl, said: “Whom else should I ask?”
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TWO IMPORTANT POINTS RELATING TO THE PERIOD WE ARE IN:
A. HaRav Naftali Kaplan, Shlita, teaches that in the Three Weeks we must
work on feeling the Tza’ar HaShechina. In order to do so, as an
introduction, one should study the Sefer Nefesh HaChaim (Sha’ar Beis,
Perakim 11 and 12). One should also review the Seder Ha’avodah
in the Yom Kippur Machzor which highlights what we are missing without the
Beis HaMikdash and the Shechina’s special presence in Yerushalayim. We
should also consider when reciting V’Lirushalayim Irecha and related
Tefillos what we are asking for and why. Finally, we should put our special
sentiment into the words Ahl Kein NeKaveh and the remainder of Aleinu.
B. We are in good company. In Ahl Naharos Bavel (Tehillim 137) the
Targum teaches that the Pasuk Zechor Hashem Livnei Edom was recited
by the Malach Michoel, and the Pasuk of Bas Bavel Hashedudah was
recited by the Malach Gavriel. We must appreciate the enormity of the
destruction. We are so out of place in this Galus that not only do we and
our friends weep--but the greatest of Malochim cry out in agony as well. The
difference is--they cannot bring the Geulah, but we, through our Teshuvah
and Tefillah--can. The time to act is now!
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REFLECTING UPON TODAY’S TIMES:
We are
unquestionably living in times of terror which could be extremely perplexing
to the average observer.
What
are we to do?!
We
provide several suggestions:
A.
Dovid HaMelech, who lived through so much in his lifetime, provides a Pasuk
in Tehillim which we can use to guide us. This Pasuk is recited every day,
twice a day, from Rosh Chodesh Elul through Shemini Atzeres--a period when
we know that our lives, and indeed the whole world around us, hangs in the
balance. The Pasuk is the climax--the final and concluding Pasuk of LeDovid
Hashem Ori--it is “Kavey El Hashem, Chazak V’Yaametz Libecha V’Kavey El
Hashem--Hope to Hashem, strengthen yourself and He will give you
courage, and [once again] Hope to Hashem!” (Tehillim 27:17)
The
Pasuk’s lesson is clear: An important part of our nisayon in life
(especially during these days of Chevlei Mashiach) is that our Emunah is
confronted and challenged. When this happens, after our initial hoping to
Hashem, which may in the ordinary course be followed by feelings of weakness
to cope, we must strengthen ourselves and hope to Hashem again. Of course,
improving one’s Tefillah (especially Shema and Shemone Esrei), one’s regular
brachos (especially when reciting the word “Ata” and Hashem’s Names), and
feeling Hashem’s actual Presence at times of challenge, helps one to
reinforce and ignite the initial hope--and obliterate depression and
despair.
We may
additionally suggest that even reciting this very Pasuk when one experiences
confusion, dejection or despondency can help a person get back on track to
refocus--there is Divine Purpose, and Ani Maamin--I believe with all my
heart in the details of the Shelosha Asar Ikarim--the Thirteen Principles of
Faith (which can also be recited more than once a day!).
When
we strengthen ourselves, we should not forget to strengthen others as well.
Remember--Kavey El Hashem…V’Kavey El Hashem--with Faith--and Joy!
B. Let
us also look at the last three Pesukim of Tehillim Chapter 6, which is the
Chapter which forms the integral part of Tachanun every morning and
afternoon. How powerful and timely these Pesukim are!:
“Suru
Mimeni Kol Po’alei Aven Ki Shamah Hashem Kol Bichyi. Shamah Hashem Techinasi
Hashem Tefilasi Yikach. Yeivoshu Veyibahalu Me’od Kol Oyevai Yashuvu
Yeivoshu Ragah--depart from me, all evildoers, for Hashem has heard the
sound of my weeping. Hashem has heard my plea, Hashem will accept my prayer.
Let all my foes be shamed and utterly confounded, they will regret and be
shamed in an instant.” [Artscroll translation]
Perhaps we can recite this Kepitel with special fervor.
C. In
his Sefer Tiv HaEmunah, HaRav Gamliel Rabanovitch, Shlita, brings the
words of Tehillim 20:6: “Neranenah Bishuasecha--we will sing for joy
at Your salvation.” Based upon this Pasuk, HaRav Rabanovitch teaches that
when one faces a situation of tzara and needs a yeshuah--he should
proceed to thank Hashem now for the Yeshuah that is to come.
D. In
a related vein, HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, teaches that when one is in a
difficult situation, he can be mekabel upon himself to do something
upon his being saved from it. For instance, one can be mekabel
to give a certain amount of Tzedakah when the Yeshuah comes, or to recite
Nishmas in the presence of a Minyan. For other examples of Kabalos, one
should consult with their Rav or Posek.
E. As
Chilul Hashem is perhaps the gravest offense, as is evidenced by its
uniquely severe punishment, the converse--the performance of Kiddush Hashem
should engender great zechusim for us. We should be especially
cognizant and sensitive to perform acts of Kiddush Hashem during this
Nisayon-filled period--especially this week as an integral part of our
Summer Improvement Program. The following event is brought in the
outstanding work Touched by a Story, by Rabbi Yechiel Spero, Shlita:
“Rav
Yehoshua Leib Diskin lived in Yerushalayim. Once, in his old age, a new
shamash came in the morning to bring him to Shul. When Rav Yehoshua Leib
emerged from his house, instead of setting out for Shul, he made his way to
a stairway outside his house that led up to the roof. He climbed the stairs
slowly and painfully, looked around for something, then came downstairs with
a sigh. The shamash could not help but ask-the Rav for the reason for his
peculiar behavior. Rav Yehoshua Leib explained, ‘The first two Batei Mikdash
were built by human hands, but the third Beis HaMikdash is going to descend
from Heaven in fire. That is something that could happen even overnight. I
wanted to check if the Beis HaMikdash came last night. But it didn’t,’ he
concluded with tears in his ryes, and turned to make his way to Shul.”
Hakhel
Note: The Bais HaMikdash does not have to be built at night--it can most
certainly be built during the day as well. May the current matzav be
our final taste of this bitter Galus--and may we be zoche to the Geulah
Sheleimah!
=================================
21 Tammuz
NOTES FROM READERS:
A. “I
wanted to share knowledge of a great book that I purchased last week on the
Three Weeks called Why We Weep published by Israel Book Shops. It is
a compellation of essays from leading Rabbanim and Roshei Yeshivas about the
Churban and its relevance to us. It doesn’t say who the melaket is,
but is put out by a Machon Alei Zayis apparently from Lakewood. I
just wanted to spread the word.”
B. “On
the point you made regarding the dove leaving the teivah on 17 Tammuz the
Da’as Zekeinim (Bereishis, 8:3), explicitly writes that this is a
remez to the fast of 17 Tammuz which would later be commemorated on
that day. This is because the Knesses Yisrael is likened to the dove (Shir
HaShirim, 2:14), and the Pasuk (Bereishis, 8:9) states that the dove found
nowhere to rest its feet – much like the Knesses Yisrael on 17 Tammuz when
the walls of Yerushalayim were breached….”
C. “In
addition to the suggestions you provided yesterday regarding overcoming the
Middas HaDin, I would like to add that I have learned that pure Tefillah and
sincere Bitachon--even when one does not have sufficient merit--can
also overcome din!”
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NINETEEN WEEKS:
As we
especially dedicate ourselves to the tenth Bracha of Shemone Esrei this
week, we provide the following words of instruction from the great
Praying with Passion Series (in order to go through this entire
outstanding series on Tefillah, please visit
http://prayingwithfire.org/archives.html):
“In
this tenth bracha of Tekah B’Shofar, we learn that there will be two means
of spiritual redemption. One will occur through hearing the shofar—Tekah
B’Shofar. Rav Tzadok HaKohen (Sefer Machshovos Charutz, Ose 13)
explains that in the Final Redemption, when the exiles are gathered, a
“great shofar” will be needed to awaken those who have become lost due to
their total involvement in the pleasures and comforts of this world. As the
Rambam (Hilchos Rosh Hashanah) says: “the sound of the shofar
is intended to wake up [spiritual] slumberers from their slumber.” A second
spiritual redemption will occur through seeing the banner held up
high—V’Sah
Neis L’Kabeitz Galuyoseinu.
The Hebrew word for banner is Neis which is also the Hebrew word for
miracle. These words express the spiritual heights we will reach when we
witness the outstanding and extraordinary miracles that will occur in the
process of redemption (Sefer Sifsei Chaim—Rinas Chaim, p 145).”
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SOME NOTES FOR THE THREE WEEK PERIOD WE ARE IN:
1.
HaRav Avigdor Miller, Z’tl, was asked what one should think about in the
Three Weeks. He responded that one could focus on three things:
A.
KAVOD SHOMAYIM. The honor of Heaven has been brought so low, as we
wallow in the values established by the lower elements of mortal man. Our
everyday experiences would truly be difficult for us, but for the fact that
we have become so accustomed to them. Imagine, then, the pain of the
Shechinah as He sees His children as low as the dust, and not as high as the
stars of the sky.
B.
SO MUCH LIFE. Because of the Galus and persecutions, so many millions of
lives have been lost--each and every one with such potential for growth and
for life.
C.
A PERSONAL LACK OF SHELEIMUS. Because we are not in our optimum state,
we are simply incomplete. Nobody wants something that is broken or missing
something. Certainly, then, when it comes to ourselves--we should yearn for
the day of full accomplishment!
2.
Technology seems to be so foreign to the world of the Beis Hamikdash as we
picture it. Maybe in some way we can control ourselves during the Three
Weeks for an hour a day--separating ourselves from our connection to the
most modern of worlds--either our computer, our phone, or some other
device--as we strive to connect to the Third Beis Hamikdash and the most
modern world--the eternal world!
3. Another important project is for one to especially look out for how
often he makes excuses for his conduct during the day: “I usually would
not eat this, but…”; “I do not get angry, but…”; “I am doing this now
because…”; or “I have the right, since…”; etc. Rabbi Yissocher Frand,
Shlita, teaches that the Shevatim at the time of their ordeal with Yosef
recognized their mistake and exclaimed: “Aval Asheimim Anachnu--but,
we are guilty!” This means, Rabbi Frand teaches--that the Shevatim
recognized that what they had done to Yosef was full of inappropriate
‘buts’--”but he dreamt that…”; “but he said that…”; “but he wore
that…”. As we realize the ‘buts’ that brought us into Mitzrayim--let
us reflect on how our reflection upon and Teshuvah from the ‘buts’
can bring us out of our current Galus!
4. The
Sefer Bnei Yissaschar (brought in the Luach Davar B’Ito)
writes that the months of Tammuz and Av are called Dalim, or The Poor
Ones. He continues that when reciting the words before Shemone Esrei
V’Ozer Dalim, we should have Kavannah that Hashem will help these two
poor months to be lifted up. Hakhel Note: Once again, we know that Hashem
has established this world on a Middah K’negged Middah basis--if we
help the poor--then Hashem will also help the poor. Accordingly, especially
in these days, when a poor person approaches us or knocks on the door, one
should make the effort to be an Ozer Dalim--not hoping that the poor
person goes away or doesn’t see him--but rather showing care and concern,
and giving them whatever he can!
5.
Rabbi Shimon Finkelman, Shlita writes in The Chofetz Chaim -A Daily
Companion that “One can compare Lashon Hara to toxic waste, and the laws
of Shemiras HaLashon to the protective suit of people who must handle it.
Properly protected--one can save others from harm--and not hurt oneself in
the process!” As noted above, let us strengthen ourselves now and be
especially vigilant to keep out even the harmful ‘second-hand Lashon Hara’--for
if not now--then when?! Hakhel Note: During the Three Week Period, let us
take affirmative action to remedy the systemic state of Galus that we are
in. Our vigilance in the area of Shemiras HaLashon will certainly be a
great and irreplaceable step in our healing. When we talk about vigilance in
Shemiras HaLashon--it is not just ‘words’--it is ACTION!
6.
Reminder--Sever Panim Yafos Calendar! If you haven’t started
yet--start today!
7.
Reminder--Kavannah in the Yehi Ratzon at the end of Shemone
Esrei and in the Tefillah Ahl HaGeulah!
8. At
the Chanukas HaBayis of the Yeshiva in Radin, the Chofetz Chaim told those
gathered that every Jew in every generation needs to have a part in the
Binyan Beis HaMikdash. Indeed, the Chofetz Chaim continued, Chazal teach
that when the Torah records V’Chein Ta’asu (relating to the
construction of the Mishkan), this meant L’Doros Haba’im--for future
generations. Incredibly, Shlomo HaMelech, with the wealth of the world at
his reach, built the Beis HaMikdash out of wood and not out of stone or
metal, in order to give the future generations an opportunity, from time to
time to upkeep, repair and revitalize the Binyan Beis HaMikdash. Let us
utilize our opportunities each day and every day to bring the final Geulah
and Yeshuah--and the everlasting Beis HaMikdash--in all of its glory!
=================================
20 Tammuz
OVERRIDING DIN:
With
the turmoil of Galus all around us, we experience a feeling of fear and
strict justice. Bilam himself exclaimed, “Oy-Mi Yichyeh M’Sumo Kel--Oy--who
will survive when He imposes these?!” (Bamidbar 24:23)
It
would seem appropriate, especially upon entering the period of the Three
Weeks, for each one of us to do what we can to avoid this din, this strict
justice, upon us individually and upon our families. After all, Hillel
teaches in Avos, “Im ain ani li mi li--If I am not for myself who
will be for me?” (Avos 1:14)
1.
The Gemara (Rosh HaShana 17A) teaches “For one who passes over his Middos
(e.g., does not anger, does not take vengeance, and does not react--even
when the situation may completely justify it)--Hashem will, in turn, pass
over his sins. The Cheshbon is simple-you control yourself even when
justified, and Hashem likewise controls His anger against you--even when
justified.
2.
The Gemara (Sotah 21A) teaches that the study of Torah does not only save
one from punishment once punishment has commenced--but actually even shields
and protects one before the onset of any new punishment, as well. The
Gemara explains (based upon the Posuk in Mishlei (6:23)), that Torah is
compared to the light of the sun, which unlike the light of a candle that
eventually is extinguished, successfully provides light for a person day
after day. In the summertime, when the Tinokos Shel Beis Rabban--the
schoolchildren--study less than when in school, we should try to make up the
slack by learning a little more ourselves.
3. We must realize that the penultimate pasuk of Eicha (5: 21) is--Hashiveinu
Hashem Eilecha V’Nashuva…. One important thing we can do during this
time is to review the Ahl Cheits, and focus upon any areas in which we have
become, or currently are, lax or lacking. Teshuva--now is the time!
------------------------------------------------
ADDITIONAL NOTES FOR THE THREE WEEKS:
1. Our
Halacha teaches us as a people how we are to conduct ourselves during the
Three Weeks, the Nine Days, Erev Tisha B’Av, and Tisha B’Av itself. The
Halacha does not, however, provide the ‘four corners’ of the law, and
accordingly, we can each take our own individual, personal steps to evidence
our feelings, and to show our personal disenchantment/misery with the Galus
we are in. As we have noted in the past, it is a custom among some, for
instance, not to eat meat or drink wine not only during the Nine Days--but
even during the Three Weeks (except, of course, on Shabbos). Others may make
their hot shower just a little less hot. Yet others may attempt to somewhat
quash or limit their needs or desires in some way during this time--not
putting on the mustard, ketchup or extra condiment, or perhaps, as we have
noted in the past, by taking the second choice of food or drink--the roll
instead of the bagel, the ginger ale rather than the coke--simply to
demonstrate a recognition of Imo Anochi B’Tzarah with Hashem at least
during this period--as the Shechina continues in Its tza’ar, exiled
from Its home, and awaiting the return of His children.
2. We
provide the following Halachos from the Sefer Koveitz Halachos which
contains the Pesakim of HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky, Shlita on the Bain
HaMetzarim Period, as written by his close Talmid, Rabbi Doniel Kleinman,
Shlita:
A. One
need not change the ring tone on his phone to a regular ring.
B. If
one has non-Jewish workers in his home, he need not instruct them to turn
off their music.
C. One
is permitted to sit in a waiting room or to enter a store, where music is
‘piped in’.
D. One
should not begin painting his home during the Three Weeks.
E. One
should not purchase a new Tallis during the Three Weeks, as it would require
a Shehechiyanu. However, if one’s Tallis was lost, one can buy a new one and
make a Shehechiyanu even during the Three Weeks--he need not bother his
friend to borrow his Tallis.
F. One
is permitted to recite Shehechiyanu on Shabbos. If one was Mekabel Shabbos
early, one can recite Shehechiyanu even if it is still daylight outside.
3.
There is a custom to recite Tikkun Chatzos at midday on each day of the
Three Weeks. If this is something we cannot do, perhaps we can recite
Tehillim Chapters 79, 83 and/or 137, which are very much related to Tikkun
Chatzos, preferably at Chatzos, or at least at some point during the day.
4. We
remind our readers that at a Hakhel Shiur, HaRav Shmuel Dishon, Shlita, once
posed the following question: “What is the greatest Chilul Hashem in the
world today?! What is the one thing that we should be most ashamed of?!”
He answered that the greatest Chilul Hashem, the greatest shame to us
today, is that we are still in Galus. The Sefer Sha’arei Teshuvah
explains that the great remedy for Chilul Hashem is Kiddush Hashem.
Accordingly, it very much behooves us to focus on acts of Kiddush Hashem--which
is the antitheses of the Chilul Hashem of Galus, and which will, in fact,
constitute the essence of Geulah. Let us each remember the teaching of
Chazal--he who bothers to prepare on Erev Shabbos, will be the one who eats
on Shabbos! Remember our Summer Improvement Program above relating to
Kiddush Hashem--work on it today--and every day!
------------------------------------------------
BE
AMAZED!
We provide the following essential teaching from Growth Through Torah,
by Rabbi Zelig Pliskin, Shlita ( pages 350-352). Although the general
concept described below may be familiar to us all, we note the important
conclusion--which is there for all of us to put into daily practice:
“Chazal (Makos 10b) take note that Hashem initially told Bilam not to go
with Balak’s messengers, who requested that he accompany them to curse Bnei
Yisrael. Hashem later told Bilam that: ‘If these people came to call you,
arise, go with them.’
From
here Chazal derives the principle, “In the way a man wishes to go, he is
led.”
If a
person wants to do evil, he will be able to do so. Of course, he will have
to pay a heavy price for the successful completion of his evil wishes.
Conversely, someone who wishes to study Torah and fulfill Hashem’s
commandments will be successful. For this, he will be greatly rewarded. When
you wish to travel along the proper path in life, you will be Divinely
assisted. Nothing stands in the way of a strong will. There are many things
that you may wish for half-heartedly, but when you strongly set your mind on
a particular goal, you will have the strength and abilities necessary to
meet that goal. What a person truly wants in life, he will usually obtain (Alai
Shur, pages 120-121).
Rabbi
Avigdor Miller (Rejoice O Youth, page 1) comments that Hashem guides
that person who seeks wisdom, and the amount of guidance is in proportion to
the earnestness of the seeker.
When
you feel a strong need for something, you will not feel the difficulties
which you encounter insurmountable, even though you might have to work very
hard to accomplish your goals. On the other hand, when you are not strongly
motivated to do something, you will procrastinate and it will take you a
very long time. Moreover, you will not do a very good job (Chochmah
U’Mussar, Vol.2, p.180).
It is
up to you to intensify your will to do good. The stronger your will, the
more you will actually accomplish. Lack of spiritual accomplishment does not
come from lack of ability, but from lack of will. Work on developing a
strong desire for spiritual growth and you will be amazed at the positive
changes you will experience.
Rabbi
Ben Zion Yadler used to quote the Alter of Navardok, ‘There is no such thing
as I cannot. What happens is that a person is missing the will and then he
claims that he cannot’ (Betuv Yerushalayim, p.116).”
Hakhel Note: We must take the step ahead, and be proactive in our mitzvah
performance. In war, one wins only by taking the offensive, and will not
succeed merely by demonstrating great defensive maneuvers, no matter how
valuable and important they may be. This being said, we must realize that
we cannot wait simply for mitzvos to come to us--we should seek out mitzvos
to perform.
Think for a few moments. How can I accomplish this essential task? Is it
by making a private “Shidduch meeting” with friends to think about those who
are single? Is it by making sure to compliment at least one person a day
every day for the next 30 days? Is it by closing my eyes when saying the
name of Hashem when reciting a bracha before and after food? Is it by make
sure that I have learned at least something--a Pasuk, a Mishna, a Vort,
after davening Shacharis and Maariv and before leaving Shul? Is it by going
over to the poor person and giving him Tzedaka before he comes to me?
Reminder again about the Summer Improvement Program…
We, too, can act like our forefather Avrohom Avinu--who saddled his donkey
to do the will of his Creator, which in the end will accomplish much
to defeat the designs of the Bilams of the world--who saddle their donkeys
to go against the will of his Creator. We, too, can bring success we so
desperately need to our generation and to all future generations as well!
All we need to do is take action! Today!
=================================
19 Tammuz
A
THREE WEEKS THOUGHT:
Rabbi
Dovid Goldwasser, Shlita, noted that we refer to the 21 day period between
Shivah Asar B’Tammuz and Tisha B’Av more readily by the term the “Three
Weeks” than by the term “The 21 Days”. He explained that this may be to
remind us that we must focus on seeking the Third Bais
HaMikdash! Hakhel Note: It is well known that the Chofetz Chaim (in the
beginning of the Sefer Chofetz Chaim) teaches that the Sinas
Chinam that brought about the destruction of the Second Bais HaMikdash
and keeps us in exile essentially refers to the Lashon Hara that is spoken.
The Chofetz Chaim (in the Sefer Shemiras HaLashon) writes that Yosef
received twelve years in jail, which was comprised of one year for the
Lashon Hara that he spoke against each of his ten brothers (Binyomin was not
included), and two years for his apparent expression of non-Bitachon (on his
level), by reliance on the Sar HaMashkim. One year in jail per
person--for the Lashon Hara spoken. This important picture may be
something to visualize--as you are about to speak what may be Lashon
Hara--picture the Third Bais HaMikdash to your right side--and r’l
prison bars to the left. The choice is ours!
-------------------------------------------
SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
We continue our Summer Improvement Program, with simple suggestions, on a
weekly basis, in each of the areas of Bein Adam LaMakom, Bein Adam
L’Chaveiro, and Bein Adam L’Atzmo. Of course, these are only
suggestions--but every person has the opportunity to join with others who
will be attempting the same successes. In the alternative, one can chart his
own improvement course on a weekly basis as well.
WEEK 4--PARASHAS PINCHOS
Bli neder, at least one time a day during this week, consciously do
the following:
Bein Adam LaMakom:
Actively think of a way that you can make a Kiddush Hashem--and act on it!
Remember, it does not have to appear to be something big--just a Kiddush
Hashem!
Bein Adam L’Chaveiro:
Have someone join in a Mitzvah with you--it can include asking someone to
answer Amen to your bracha.
Bein Adam L’Atzmo:
Run to do a Mitzvah (or want to run).
----------------------------------------------------------
NINETEEN WEEKS!
We are now in the tenth of the nineteen week period prior to Rosh
Hashana. In past years, we have proceeded weekly, Bracha by Bracha, through
Shemone Esrei with a special emphasis on Kavannah on that week’s Bracha.
This week’s Bracha is… Teka BeShofar!
When we recite the three key terms Shofar Gadol,
Sa Neis, and Kabbtzeinu Yachad, we should put our
hearts into it, and visualize the enormity and significance of the
Geulah--which will come, but which we want to come now. A reader
once commented that the Shofar Gadol may allude to the similar Kol Gadol
of the Shofar of Mattan Torah which did not weaken. So too, the Geulah that
the Shofar will herald will be forever and ever--is there anything
greater?! Similarly, the Neis, the banner will be high enough for
the world to see as our exiles are ingathered from Johannesburg and Buenos
Aires, from Vancouver and Stockholm, and from New York and London as well.
What an event--what a happening--and it could be before our very eyes!
Finally, we will be gathered Yachad, all together--side by side in
ultimate peace and harmony. Let us focus on the sheer enormity of the
event--and give these unparalleled requests the heartfelt clear
Kavannah that they, very literally, so greatly deserve!
In addition to the above note,
we provide by the following link additional notes to the Nineteen Brachos
for the years 5771 and 5772
http://www.hakhel.info/TefillahArchive.html
May we highly recommend the Nineteen Week Program again this year--either
based upon your own study (such as by utilizing the Praying with Passion
Series (available at
www.prayingwithfire.org), the
magnificent Rav Schwab on Prayer, the Tefillah Tapes of Rabbi Berel
Wein, Shlita, or other wonderful resources), or by utilizing the link
provided on a daily basis throughout the week!
Additional Note: We once again emphasize the words of the Mesilas
Yesharim (end of Chapter 19): “Im Yomar Adam Me Ani…She’espalel Ahl
Yerushalayim--if a person will say who am I to daven for Yerushalayim?”
Will the Yeshuah come about because of my Tefillos? Yes! Man was
created as an individual so that a person could exclaim: ‘Because of me the
world was created!’, and even if the Geulah does not come because of your
Tefillos, it still gives Nachas Ruach to Hashem that His children ask and
daven for this. Indeed, it was because individuals failed to daven that the
Navi cried out: “Tzion He Doresh Ein Lah--it is Tzion, and no one
seeks it!” It must be sought after! Each and every one of us must plead for
the Geulah and we cannot excuse ourselves based upon our lack of ability or
strength, and we must remember that it is impossible for Kavod Shomayim to
abound unless K’lal Yisrael is redeemed--for Kavod Shomayim is bound
together with Kavod Yisrael!...
---------------------------------------------------------
THE COMPARISON:
HaRav Shlomo Mandel, Shlita, brings a Maharsha (to Bechoros 8), who compares
the three week period between Rosh Hashanah and Hoshana Rabbah to the Three
Weeks between Shivah Asar B’Tammuz and Tisha B’Av. It is a twinship of
process, and a twinship of culmination. These are days of examination,
thinking, repairing, changing one’s mindset and ways, a time in which one
must put himself into his best working order. HaRav Mandel teaches that
much of what we must do during this period is to re-forge our relationship
with Hashem. Why? Let us look at the words of the Navi. In the Haftarah
of Shabbos Chazon, Yeshayahu HaNavi (Yeshaya 1:3) laments: “Yadah Shor
Koneihu V’Chamor Eivus Ba’alav…--the ox knows its owner, and a donkey
his master’s trough, Yisrael does not know, my nation does not perceive….”
If the animals recognize who provides them with their sustenance and enables
them to live, function and achieve that which they are supposed to--then we,
all the more so, must apply the lessons ‘a million times over’ and recognize
HaKadosh Baruch Hu in all that we do. HaRav Mandel brings an incredible
Maharal (in Parashas Bereishis) who teaches that if a person is not a
Makir Tovah, then it is forbidden to do him a Tovah. HaRav
Mandel explains that it appears a bit like Lifnei Iver for a
person to do a good deed to someone who will not recognize it--for he will
then be punished for being a Kafui Tovah--for denying the good(!).
In a similar vein, Rabbi Yaakov Salomon, Shlita, points out that it is not
by coincidence that we are to recite the Birkos HaShachar--every day--at
the top of the day. These brachos should definitely reintroduce us to a
Hakarah, to a recognition of what Hashem does for us on a 24 hour a
day, 7 day a week basis. It is also no coincidence, Rabbi Salomon adds,
that the first bracha is Asher Nasan Lasechvi Vinah. According to
one interpretation, this refers to Hashem giving the rooster the
understanding to distinguish between day and night. What is the great
understanding here? After all, this is something that the rooster does day
in and day out, when it senses the same thing that it sensed the day
before?! Rabbi Salomon answers that a true appreciation is one in which we
thank Hashem for the daily abilities of our legs to walk together in
the same direction, for our bodies to be able to be lifted out of bed, and
for all of the senses, intellect and gifts that we are blessed with today.
It is not because we had them yesterday that we by any means or
‘automatically’ get them again today. Will we eat good food today--or dog
food? Will we be able to articulate the words of our brachos and tefillos,
the Torah thought and the compliment--or will the words not come out
properly, or in disarray? Will we be able to pass by aisles and aisles of
over-the-counter medications in the pharmacy as we go to purchase a tube of
toothpaste, without having to purchase any of them? Will we be able to
check “no” to the scores of health and illness related questions on the
doctor’s questionnaire when seeing him for the first time?
Remember--when the Beis HaMikdash comes the foremost result will be that we
will have an extremely direct and personal relationship with Hashem--if we
work on that now, to the extent that we can--how the more ready we will be
for the day when our Ruchniyus will be lifted further and our lives fully
fulfilled! Hakaras HaTov--let us work on it over the Three Weeks with
focused Birkos HaShachar, an understanding in our brachos throughout the
day--and by recognizing throughout the day how Hashem allows us, guides us
and moves us through the circumstances, situations and events of each and
every day!
---------------------------------------------------------
PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS TO BRING THE WORLD’S ETERNAL DAYTIME EARLIER:
1. At
the end of Shemone Esrei every day, and at the end of each Kaddish, “Oseh
Shalom Bimromav Hu Ya’aseh Shalom Aleinu V’Ahl Kol Yisrael V’Imru Amein”
is recited. [The Meforshim on the Siddur explain that the V’Imru Amein
in our silent Shemone Esrei is addressed to the Malochim who accompany us.]
What a powerful phrase--especially at this time--to have Kavannah in, and to
which to respond Amein (in Kaddish) with great Kavannah and fervor.
2. The
Sefer Mesilas Yesharim teaches that a person’s ultimate and true goal
should be to give Nachas Ruach to HaKadosh Baruch Hu. Focus on what you are
about to say or do several times a day--do I think that this is going to
give Hashem true Nachas Ruach?
3. If
K’lal Yisrael is in this desperate situation because Hashem is upset or
angry with us, then we must act to others in a manner in which we are not
upset or angry with them. Likewise, if it is Din that K’lal Yisrael is
experiencing, then we are looking for Rachamim B’Din--which we can receive
on a middah k’neged middah basis by our acting with mercy towards
others. Remember--Hashem Tzilecha--Hashem is our shadow!
It is all very much related!
4. The
Gedolim have suggested that one should try to study more Torah. The
Steipeler Gaon would urge those seeking Kapparah to relearn things that they
already knew--as this would bring about Kapparah, for a person wants to by
nature learn something new--and that reviewing over again what one already
knows can serve as ‘yissurin’ and bring about Kapparah!
5.
Towards the end of Mesechta Ta’anis, we learn that Abba Umna was given
Shalom by the Mesivta D’Rakiyah every day. The Gemara explains that
this was largely because in treating his patients while bloodletting, he
kept the men and women separate and gave the women modest garments to
wear during the procedure. The Gemara then continues that Eliyahu Hanavi
showed Rav Bruna a prison warden who would be a Ben Olam Haba because he
kept the male and female prisoners separate, and did not let them co-mingle.
In last week’s Parasha, we find that Bilam praised K’lal Yisrael with the
words Mah Tovu Ohalecha Yaakov--how beautiful is our modesty and
privacy. In turn, last week’s Haftarah (Micha 6:8) concludes with the
question: What does Hashem seek of you?: “…V’Hatznei’ah Leches Im
Elokecha--walking modestly with Hashem.” We emphasize that both men
and women must demonstrate their own unique and royal status and
privilege by dressing themselves (and their children) appropriately when
going out into the world, when in Shul, and when in the confines of one’s
own home. Remember--V’Hatznei’ah Leches Im Elokecha--we must
walk modestly with Hashem--that is what Hashem expects of us!
---------------------------------------------------------
REMINDER--OUR SEVER PANIM YAFOS PROGRAM!
Over
the Three Week period, one of a person’s great accomplishments would
be true improvement in Bein Adam L’Chaveiro. As the Chofetz Chaim
outlines at the outset of the Sefer Chofetz Chaim, the Second Beis
HaMikdash was destroyed because of the aveira of Sinas Chinam/Lashon Hara.
HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, in the Sefer Sifsei Chaim, writes that
Sever Panim Yafos--meeting and reacting to a person with thought, care and
pleasantness would be a great accomplishment resulting from the Three Week
period. Even when not meeting someone in person, HaRav Friedlander
continues, one should talk over the phone in a way in which the person on
the other end feels the smile. To aid in the sometimes difficult task, no
matter how busy or preoccupied you may be, we provide a check-off calendar
(below) for the Three Weeks, starting Sunday. If you feel that the constant
obligation to do so is too difficult, may we suggest that you undertake this
goal consciously, one or two or three times a day, or perhaps with one or
two or three specific people a day (could be family members or difficult
people to work or deal with!). We wish everyone Hatzlacha in this endeavor,
and may the Geulah Sheleimah be before us all!
=================================
16 Tammuz
HAIRCUT GUIDE:
As
many will be taking a haircut today, we once again provide an important link
to The Kosher Haircut Guide Poster (available at
http://tinyurl.com/yh2dqy6 ). We once
again urge you to distribute this poster, in order to help many others in
your community as well.
-----------------------------------------------------
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
Chazal (Sanhedrin 105A) teach that Bilam’s father, Be’or, was none other
than Lavan himself. What does that make the familial relationship to be
between Bilam and the 12 Shevatim (and their descendants) that Bilam sought
to curse? What lesson can you derive from this important and incredible
fact?
-----------------------------------------------
LET’S GET
THE MESSAGE! In Parashas Balak (Bamidbar 23:9), we find the prophecy
of Bilam come to life before our eyes: “Hain Am Levodod Yishkon
U’VaGoyim Lo Yischashav...behold, it is a nation that will dwell in
solitude and will not be counted among the nations.” As we see how the
nations have turned --to the point where they have championed the cause of
terrorists (really out to kill them too) against us--we see how disregarded
and despised we really are to them--because of who we are. Perhaps one
simple lesson we should take and apply for our times is to recite the bracha
of “Shelo Asani Goy” with added kavana. Would we ever want to act
like this?! Indeed, the joining of countries otherwise unfriendly with each
other towards the common goal of hurting the Jew is reminiscent of the
Midyan-Moav alliance for the same purpose, as described by Rashi in this
week’s Parasha. One thing is for sure, just as the foregoing Pasuk in the
Parasha was fulfilled--so too will the later words of Bilam to Balak in the
Parasha also be fulfilled: “Lecha Iatzecha Asher Ya’aseh Ha’am Hazeh
LeAmecha B’Acharis HaYomim--Come and I will advise you what this people
will do to your people in the end of days....May it come speedily and in
our days--after all-- it is all in one and the very same Parasha!
-----------------------------------------------
REMEMBER--SEVER PANIM YAFOS!
Over
the Three Week period, one of a person’s great accomplishments would
be true improvement in Bein Adam L’Chaveiro. As the Chofetz Chaim
outlines at the outset of the Sefer Chofetz Chaim, the Second Beis
HaMikdash was destroyed because of the aveira of Sinas Chinam/Lashon Hara.
HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, in the Sefer Sifsei Chaim, writes that
Sever Panim Yafos--meeting and reacting to a person with thought, care and
pleasantness would be a great accomplishment resulting from the Three Week
period. Even when not meeting someone in person, HaRav Friedlander
continues, one should talk over the phone in a way in which the person on
the other end feels the smile. To aid in the sometimes difficult task, no
matter how busy or preoccupied you may be, we once again provide a check-off
calendar for the Three Weeks, starting Sunday. If you feel that the constant
obligation to do so is too difficult, may we suggest that you undertake this
goal consciously, one or two or three times a day, or perhaps with one or
two or three specific people a day (could be family members or difficult
people to work or deal with!). We wish everyone Hatzlacha in this endeavor,
and may the Geulah Sheleimah be before us all!
|
SUNDAY |
MONDAY |
TUESDAY |
WEDNESDAY |
THURSDAY |
FRIDAY |
SHABBOS |
|
JULY 24
o
|
JULY 25
o
|
JULY 26
o
|
JULY 27
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TZEDAKA!
Please remember to give Tzedaka on the Ta’anis for as Chazal teach ‘Igra
DeTa’anisa Tzidkasa’. If you need an address--we provide
yadeliezer.org --which has been helping
the poor in Eretz Yisrael for decades with true honor and real distinction.
Add the Navi’s teaching that “Veshaveha BiTzedaka--those who return
to Tzion will return with tzedaka” to the need to give on a Ta’anis itself
--and we appreciate how much we can accomplish with some well placed funds
on this very significant day!
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WE CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
A. The following is excerpted from Something To Think About by Rabbi
Sholom Smith, Shlita, based upon the teachings of Harav Avraham Pam, Z’tl:
“What is the big rush to escort the Shabbos out? In the Friday night zemiros
of Kol Mekadesh, we praise those ‘who delay departing from Shabbos.’
Shabbos is a time of menucha. Rashi (Bereishis 2:2), says, “When Shabbos
arrives, tranquility arrives.” Tur (295) writes that even the wicked who are
experiencing terrible punishments in Gehinnom enjoy tranquility on Shabbos.
Nonetheless, at the conclusion of Shabbos, the wicked return to their
punishments and, as Rema (OC 295:1) notes, this is the reason we recite
Vihi No’am on Motza’ei Shabbos--to extend for a few more minutes their
reprieve by delaying Havdalah. There are various opinions as to when Shabbos
is over. Is it 45, 60, 72 or 90 minutes after sunset? What is the official
time in Gehinnom to bring back the wicked for the resumption of the
punishments. The Yesod V’Shoresh Ha’avodah (8:1) quotes Sifrei
Kabbalah which write that the wicked return to their punishments at the
time when they (generally) held the conclusion of Shabbos during their
lifetimes. If they were of those who impatiently waited for the earliest
time to end Shabbos, their punishments resume at the earliest time as well.
If they had tried to extend the Shabbos as long as possible, they receive
the same courtesy from Heaven…. It is especially important to inculcate
children with an appreciation that every minute of Shabbos one experiences
is a prelude to the pleasure and happiness of the World-to-Come. It is
unfortunate that many parents fail to convey the feelings of spiritual
Oneg that a Jew should experience on Shabbos….”
B. The following Halachos are excerpted from the Dirshu Edition of the
Mishna Berurah:
1. An important Shabbos preparation is cutting one’s nails. One should wash
his hands immediately after cutting nails (whether of the hands or feet).
The Chazon Ish rules that if one bites off only one nail, netilas yadayim is
not required. One may answer amen while cutting his nails, even though he
has a ruach ra’ah on his hands while cutting his nails (Shulchan
Aruch, Orach Chaim 260, Note 16).
2. If one was not able to eat a meal with bread on Leil Shabbos, then he
should eat three bread meals during the day. If one does not have bread on
Leil Shabbos, it is preferable to make Kiddush and eat a kezayis of cake or
drink a revi’is of wine so that the Kiddush will be bemakom Seudah. If one
does not do so, he would then recite the regular Leil Shabbos Kiddush before
he eats the bread meal on Shabbos day itself (SH, OC 249, Note 15).
3. HaRav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, Z’tl, rules that one may put water in the
freezer before Shabbos, even though it will freeze on Shabbos (SA, OC 252,
Note 24). However, HaRav Auerbach rules that one cannot turn on a washing
machine before Shabbos, so that it will continue to wash on Shabbos for this
is a zilzul in the Kavod of Shabbos. HaRav Moshe Feinstein, Z’tl,
rules that starting a dryer before Shabbos is likewise prohibited (ibid.,
Note 25).
4. If one does not like hot food during the summer, HaRav Nissim Karelitz,
Shlita, writes that one should nevertheless eat hot food on Shabbos--unless
he would be hurt by it. His ruling is based on the words of the Mishna
Berurah (SA, OC 297 seif katan 48). Additionally, HaRav Karelitz writes that
because the ikar Seudah on Shabbos is by day, hot food should be eaten at
the day meal, and that drinking a hot drink is insufficient. HaRav Karelitz
basis his ruling on the words of the Ba’al HaMe’or in Meseches Shabbos: “HaMashmin
Hu HaMa’amin Vezoche LeKeitz HaYamim”.
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POINTS AND POINTERS ON THIS WEEK’S PARASHA, PARASHAS BALAK:
A.
HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, observes that Bilam is more severely
criticized than Balak. Why is this so? After all, was it not Balak who
started the whole process? Was he not the one who instigated Bilam,
inducing him to come, and moving him from one mizbe’ach to another? Yet,
Balak counts Rus as one of his descendents, while Bilam’s name lives in
infamy forever. HaRav Kanievsky explains that Balak acted in fear--having
observed first-hand what happened as a result of the wars of Bnei Yisrael
against Sichon and Og. Bilam, on the other hand, was a non-party to all of
this, and joined in only because of his Middos Mushchasos--his
destructive or rotten Middos. HaRav Kanievsky notes that all of those
listed in the Mishna in Sanhedrin (90A) as not having a portion in the World
to Come, lost their portion because of Middos Mushchasos. With this,
we can understand the great contrast provided in the Mishna in Avos
(5:22--studied this week, the week of Parashas Balak!) between the students
of Avraham Avinu and the students of Bilam HaRasha. The differences: Ayin
Tova vs. Ayin Ra’ah, Ruach Nemucha vs. Ruach Gevoha, and Nefesh Shefalah vs.
Nefesh Rechava should therefore be especially focused upon this week.
Chazal are incredibly telling us that above and beyond their differences in
Torah, Tefillah, and Emunah, what rests at the heart of the distinction
between Avraham Avinu and his future generations, and Bilam HaRasha and his
followers are (as explained by Rabbeinu Ovadia M’Bartenura):
a.
Ayin Tova-- being satisfied with what one has and not desiring the
money or possessions of others. Example: You do not need a summer
home, and if you have one, you do not need his or her summer
home.
b.
Ruach Nemucha--humble spirit. According to the Sefer Sha’arei
Teshuva, this includes a person not being Machazik Tova to
himself, and not seeking Kavod for the honorable things that he does or
accomplishes.
c.
Nefesh Shefalah--deemphasizing the desires of this world.
Indeed, there is a story of one of the Gedolim, who tasted ice cream once
and was so impressed with its good taste that he elected never to eat it
again.
B. “Mah
Tovu Ohalecha Yaakov Mishkenosecha Yisrael”. We recite this Pasuk upon
entering Shul every morning. The Chasam Sofer notes that there are two
kinds of unacceptable behavior when it comes to one’s relationship with his
Bais HaKnesses or Bais HaMidrash. Some are hesitant to go to Shul, claiming
that they can learn better at home, or accomplish more in their office. To
them, the Shul is only an Ohel. To another who frequents the Shul or Bais
Midrash, the Shul may appear to lose a tad of its sanctity, as he talks
loudly across the Shul, walks around with food or drink in his hand, and
even engages in friendly conversations on all kinds of topics here and
there. Thus, he slightly abrogates the Mikdash nature of the Makom
Kadosh, although leaving it as a Mishkan--the place that he
frequents. It is for this reason, the Chasam Sofer continues, that we
immediately recite the next Pasuk (from Tehillim 5:8) “Va’ani BeRov
Chasdecha Avoh Vaisecha--Hashem, I know that it is only because of Your
great Chesed that I can enter”; moreover, “Eshtachaveh El Heichal
Kadshecha BeYirasecha--I bow towards the Holy Heichal in fear of You.”
With these important words, we demonstrate our appreciation, and our
inestimable value of the Makom that we are about to enter. Hakhel Note: As
we have mentioned in the past, although Mah Tovu is only recited when one
enters Shul in the morning, many recite the Pasuk “Va’ani BeRov Chasdecha”
(in a bowed position) when they enter Shul and other times during the day as
well. We can now understand why!
C.
Another aspect of Mah Tovu is Bilam’s special awareness on how Klal Yisrael
treats the right of privacy of others--as he noticed how the entrance ways
to each person’s tent was carefully positioned not to face another’s
entrance. There are many ways that we can inculcate this into our daily
lives: When walking by a house with a door open or the shades up, one
should not look in simply based upon the theory that they have left their
door open or windows uncovered--so they must not care so much about it.
Indeed, one should be careful not to do so even absentmindedly. As noted in
the past, in our day and age, we may also include peeking in to someone’s
car as they are driving (even if they have pulled up next to you at a
light). We can also add to the list listening in to the conversation
between two people which is obviously between them--even if they have not
asked you to leave so as not to shame you. Rabbi Zelig Pliskin, Shlita, in
his Sefer Love Your Neighbor, adds: Because of our obligation to
respect the privacy of others, Rabbeinu Gershom placed a Chairem on reading
someone else’s mail without permission (Be’er HaGolah, Yorah Deiah
334:123). Even parents should not read the mail of their children without
permission (see Rav Chaim Palaji, p. 18). We update this a bit by adding
finally that Mah Tovu also reminds us not to look at the emails of
others without their permission--and all the more so when you have received
an email for someone in error. Curiosity was never claimed as one of the
great Jewish traits, and we should not start the Minhag now.
------------------------------------------------
THE
PARASHA’S ENDING:
The
Parasha this week ends with the sad event of Bnei Yisrael falling prey to
the Bnos Midyan and their deceit. As with all sin--we must get to its root,
its source. What caused this sin? How did the Bnei Yisrael get involved
with the Bnos Midyan at this late stage of their encampment in the desert,
after so many years of extraordinarily miraculous living in the Midbar--as
they were soon to approach their destination--Eretz Yisrael? Rabbi Shmuel
Smith, Shlita, brings the words of the Pasuk (Bamidbar 25:1) “Veyeishev
Yisrael BaShitim…--and Bnei Yisrael camped in Shitim”. This can be
interpreted to mean, Chazal teach, that they went out into the foreign
environment (Shatu) of the gentile nations to see how they lived.
Rather than appreciating the extremely important lessons that Hashem taught
them--how they could be successful and live an extraordinary existence if
they remained separate and distinct--they ventured out to see how the people
around them lived--what these people did and how they did it. The tragedy
that resulted was transgression compounded by transgression--as they first
sinned with the daughters of Midyan and went on to worship Avodah Zara.
Incredibly, what Bilam could not accomplish with his expertise and mastery
at sorcery and cursing--the people brought upon themselves by
leaving the protection and confines of their Torah environment. As we reel
from the ruling of the Supreme Court of the United States, requiring its
residents (as preeminent representatives of the western world) to legalize
immorality, and combine this with the summer months (in the northern
hemisphere), in which we are subjected to terribly inappropriate settings,
surroundings and atmospheres--we must take the lesson from the Bnos Midyan
event--and lean much to the side of Pinchas Ben Elazar--who went far out of
his way to combat what had quickly become the ‘acceptable’ standard.
Sometimes a little bit of something is good. Here, however, the Vilna Gaon (Even
Shelaima 1:7) in his great wisdom notes: “A man should never say, ‘I
will follow my physical lust and inquisitive desires a little and afterwards
will withdraw from them.’ For as a man begins to draw toward them he becomes
busy and forfeits his eternal life completely. For it is very difficult to
withdraw from them. Even the man who fears Hashem, who is versed in the
Torah, and observes the mitzvos, when he draws toward lust, he will lose
all.”
To
reiterate the practical teaching HaRav Yisroel Belsky, Z’tl, to those
working in the city:”To the extent possible, put your head down, and walk in
a determined manner to your destination.” Similarly, for women, extreme
caution must be exercised as to where one goes, what one sees, and how one
dresses. One should not allow himself the excuse that what is around us is
the “norm” way of the world, and that we cannot get around it. It cannot be
a ‘norm’--if it is not acceptable. Instead, what is--or should
be--considered normal is the way Hashem wants us to conduct ourselves.
Rabbi Yisroel Reisman, Shlita, reiterates this with the following essential
teaching: A Kiddush Hashem is not doing what people like or think is
right--but what Hashem says is right.
The
task is a difficult one--both from the Yetzer Hara within, and the Yetzer
Hara without. Chazal teach that according to the effort is the reward (Avos:
5:26). We are in Galus, a bitter Galus. Rabbi Smith concludes that if we
really want to leave this Galus and achieve Geula, we must demonstrate that
we are different, and that we conduct ourselves by a different set of rules.
It is
“hand-to-hand combat” out there for each and every one of us--but what
greater victory can there be than each of us doing more than our part
in bringing the Geulah!
Additional Note: On Motz’ai Shabbos, we recite the words of Havdala:”HaMavdil
Bein Kodesh Lechol, Bein Ohr Lachosech Bein Yisrael La’Amim Bein Yom
HaShevii LeSheishes Yemei HaMa’aseh--Who separated the holy and the
profane, the light from the darkness, Yisrael from the other nations...”.
Rabbi Smith said that he heard from a Rav that these words teach us that
the same Havdala---the same separation--that exists between the holy and the
profane, between the light and the darkness--is the separation that exists
between K’lal Yisrael and the nations. It is our mandate and our
duty--to live it on a daily basis--until the Geulah Sheleima may it come
speedily and in our day--today!
------------------------------------------------
PRACTICAL NOTES RELATING TO THE TA’ANIS:
We
provide the following points and pointers regarding Sunday’s Ta’anis, as
culled from the Mishna Berurah (Dirshu Edition). Of course, one should
consult with his own Rav or Posek on any question of Halacha that he may
have:
A. If
a person wants to eat or drink by waking up early before the Ta’anis, he
must so verbally state before going to sleep. It does not help for a person
to make this verbal statement one time (such as at the beginning of the
year)--and for it to work for many fasts. If a person recites Hamapil and
then remembered that he did not so state, the Ohr L’Tzion rules that
if it is necessary one may be lenient and so state even after reciting
Hamapil (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 564, Dirshu Note 4).
B. The
reason that the Shaliach Tzibbur recites Aneinu between the brachos of Go’el
Yisrael and Refa’einu is because of the Pesukim in Tehillim which are
juxtaposed: “…Hashem Tzuri V’Go’ali” (end of Kepitel 19) and “Ya’anecha
Hashem B’Yom Tzara…” (beginning of Kepitel 20) (ibid. 566 Mishna Berurah
seif katan 1).
C. If
the Shaliach Tzibbur forgot to say Aneinu between the brachos of Go’el
Yisrael and Refa’einu, then he should recite Aneinu in Shema Koleinu (as an
individual does at Mincha). If he did not remember to recite it then
either--even if he did not yet begin Retzei, then he should not go back to
recite it, but instead says it after completing Shemone Esrei and does not
conclude with a bracha (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 565, Mishna Berurah seif
katan 3, Dirshu Note 4).
D. If
an individual reciting Shemone Esrei mistakenly concludes Aneinu with the
bracha of Baruch Atta Hashem Ha’oneh B’Eis Tzara rather than
Baruch Atta Hashem Shomei’ah Tefillah--HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach,
Z’tl, and HaRav Chaim Kanievsky rule that he must recite the bracha of Shema
Koleinu again. HaRav Tzvi Pesach Frank, Z’tl, rules that he does not (ibid.
Dirshu Note 5).
E. The
reason that we lein Parashas Vayichal on a Ta’anis is because the
Inyan HaYom is to plead for Selicha and Rachamim, and in this Parasha
Moshe Rabbeinu asked for Selicha and Rachamim on behalf of all of K’lal
Yisrael. Additionally, we show our hope that just as Hashem forgave us for
the Cheit Ha’eigel and gave us the Luchos Sheniyos--so too do we hope that
Hashem will forgive us for our sins and return the Beis HaMikdash to us! We
then repeat the leining again at Mincha because it is a special Eis Ratzon
(ibid. 566, Dirshu Note 1).
F. In
the course of the leining, the Ba’al Kriya stops and the Tzibbur begins to
recite the 13 Middos, beginning with the words “Hashem, Hashem”,
which is in the middle of a Pasuk. How can we start in the middle of a Pasuk?
The Sha’arei Ephraim answers that we may do so because we are not
reciting it as a Pasuk but as a Techina U’bakasha. The Chazzan does
not, however, recite the words with the Tzibbur--but instead waits for the
Tzibbur to finish, and then recites the Pesukim. This is because he is in
the middle of leining--and it is inappropriate for him to make a bakasha at
this time (ibid. Dirshu Notes 4 and 5).
G. The
Shulchan Aruch expressly writes that one who is engaged in a Ta’anis should
not conduct himself in a leisurely way, nor be lightheaded--rather, he
should be solemn and serious, as the Pasuk says: “Mah Yisonein Adam Chai”.
The Mishna Berurah adds that especially on a Ta’anis when one may be more on
edge--he should be sure not to get angry, and if he must do business he
should be sure to do so with faith and serenity--so that he does not come to
anger at all (ibid. 568:12, Mishna Berurah seif katan 50).
H. In
all events, as the Mishna Berurah expressly instructs: “Ve’ein HaTa’anis
Elah Hachana L’Teshuvah--a Ta’anis is only a preparation for Teshuvah”
(ibid. 549 Mishna Berurah seif katan 1). Let us remember this--let us
prepare ourselves!
------------------------------------------------
A
NOTE FOR SHIVA ASAR B’TAMMUZ:
We typically remember that the first frightful event that happened on Shivah
Assar B’Tammuz was Moshe Rabbeinu’s breaking of the Shnei Luchos which
contained the Aseres Hadibros, as a result of the sin of the Golden Calf.
If only the people had shown enough faith to wait one more day for their
venerable and venerated leader, their happiness and dancing would have
resulted in the greatest Simchas Torah ever(!). Instead, we still feel the
pain from the torturous event.
In
fact, there was one prior significant event on this fateful day which
preceded the breaking of the Luchos. The Luach Dovor B’Ito writes
that the Yona, the dove sent by Noach out of the Ark, could not find a place
to land and so returned to the Teiva (Bereishis 8:8). The obvious question
is, why would Noach bother sending the dove out without any indication
whatsoever (from Hashem directly, or otherwise) that the waters had
receded? Was he taking a stab in the dark? We may posit that Noach sensed
or knew that the day was right for renewal and joy. The fact that the dove
returned indicated to him that it was he and his family, representing all of
mankind, who were the ones not ready for this renewal. The same lesson
carried through on this date to the Golden Calf, and thereafter the
subsequent tragedies on this day in which our people’s spiritual growth was
stunted rather than cultivated.
The
Three Weeks in front of us should not be viewed as a burden to be overcome,
evidenced by our expression to others to have ‘an easy time of it’. Instead,
it should be a meaningful and important time in which we hope, pray and take
action. Depression and despair should not be the hallmark of these days,
for they may evidence a breach or lack of faith which is the antithesis of
spiritual growth. We should learn from the gift of gravity that Hashem has
given us to always keep both feet firmly on the ground despite the forces
working against us.
It is
the custom of some to recite “Tikun Chatzos” during the Three Week period
(see Rabbi Webster’s Halacha discussion below)--some even in the middle of
the day. We may not as yet be on this level. However, we provide a
suggestion that we have made in the past--If we can conclude the Yehi Ratzon
at the end of Shemone Esrei with Kavannah during these three weeks, three
times a day, we will have sincerely davened for the Beis Hamikdash and our
redemption more than 60 times during this short period! Rather than
wallowing in self-pity, we will demonstrate a renewal of our faith and have
beautifully affirmed our supreme goals.
In the
merit of our prayers, may we see with our own eyes the ultimate redemption
at the beginning of the short period of special, focused thought that lies
ahead.
=================================
15 Tammuz
BE
FIRST!
Chazal
provide us with an astonishing way in which we can defeat our enemies. In
this week’s Parasha (Bamidbar 22:21), we find that the highly-respected
Bilam saddled his own donkey, demonstrating his alacrity in Sinas Yisrael.
Rashi (ibid.) writes that in response to this alacrity, HaKadosh Baruch Hu
stated: “Rasha--Avraham their forefather already demonstrated his love for
Me by arising early and saddling his donkey.” Likewise, we find that Hashem
told Mordechai (Megillah 16A): “Your Shekalim previously given to the
Mishkan upended the monies I tendered to Achashveirosh in my zeal to destroy
your people.” The key, then, is for us to act first--simply stated,
our acts of good thwart and supersede over our enemy’s planned act of evil!
----------------------------------------------------------
A FRIGHTENING SOURCE FOR PERAH ADAM:
HaRav Doniyel M’Kelm, Z’tl, H’yd, the last Rosh Yeshiva of Kelm, who was
niftar Ahl Kiddush Hashem, explains why the Bnei Yishmael behave as a perah
adam--in an abnormal, inhumane manner. He posits that it is because
Hagar, his mother, was mezalzel in the honor due to Sara Imeinu, her
mistress, as the Torah expressly records (Bereishis 16:4): “Vateikal
Gevirtah B’Eine’hah--and her mistress was treated lightly, or disgraced,
in her eyes.” As a result--Hagar herself conceived a perah adam--a
disgraceful person--b’li chashivus, b’li sechel, b’li da’as, bli kavod.
Because she disgraced those who deserved respect--her progeny became a
disgrace to mankind.
Hakhel Note: Oh how we, being the descendants of Sara Imeinu--must
emphasize and show the proper Kavod to all!
------------------------------------------------
AN
EXTREMELY IMPORTANT POINT--from
the extremely important Sefer Yearning with Fire:
“A person who
is suffering ill health due to being overweight will go
to the
trouble of keeping a journal and involving people and so on if it means a
longer, healthier life. Someone who
just wants to lose the weight for vanity’s sake, however, would find the
routine onerous. Likewise, for us, our willingness
to make spiritual growth a serious, sustained effort depends on how keenly
we feel its necessity and how motivated we are.”
-------------------------------------------
AHAVAS YISRAEL CARDS:
By the following links -
http://tinyurl.com/oq8ez5b (Hebrew version) and
http://tinyurl.com/pgkm6wh (English version), we provide special
cards--a beautiful project promulgated by the Bostoner Kollel of Har Nof
(Rosh Kollel, Rav Aschkenasy, Shlita). This is the message that the Rosh
Kollel conveys with the cards: “In the spirit of the Three Weeks we are
sending out the attached “Ahavas Yisrael” cards. Each individual creates a
big zechus for all of Klal Yisrael when he takes note of the points and puts
them into practice one by one, so valuable at this time of the year when we
remember the destruction of the Beis Hamikdash, and particularly in these
difficult days. Please feel free to print them and give them to others.”
-------------------------------------------
IN
PREPARATION FOR THE THREE WEEKS:
HaRav
Yisroel Dov Webster, Shlita, provides the following Halachos for the Three
Weeks period. As with all Halachos, in case of one’s particular
circumstances, he/she should consult with his/her own Rav or Posek:
The
Three Weeks (Bein Hametzarim-between the days of distress) is the time
period between the 17th of Tammuz, when the first breach was made of the
walls of Jerusalem, to the 9th of Av, exactly Three Weeks afterwards when
the Bais Hamikdash was destroyed (Eicha Rabba 1-29).
Five
tragedies occurred on Shivah Assar B’Tammuz (Ta’anis 26b, Rambam Hilchos
Ta’anis 5-2):
1.
The walls of the second Bais Hamikdash were breached by the Roman
general Titus. (The Talmud Yerushalmi (Ta’anis 4:5) maintains that the
breaching of the walls during the first Bais Hamikdash occurred on the
seventeenth of Tammuz. The Talmud Bavli (Ta’anis 29a) however, maintains
that the breach of the walls of the first Bais Hamikdash occurred on the
ninth of Tammuz.)
2. The
two daily sacrifices (Korban Tamid) ceased during the first Bais Hamikdash
because the Kohanim were unable to find a lamb to offer as a Korban.
3.
The first set of Luchos was broken when Moshe Rabbeinu descended Har Sinai.
4.
Prior to the destruction of the second Bais Hamikdash, Apostomus, a Roman
officer, r’l burned the Torah.
5. An
idol was r’l erected in the Bais Hamikdash (Some say it was erected
by Apostomus, others say it was Menashe, the idolatrous king of Yehudah
during the first Bais Hamikdash ) (Ta’anis 28b, Rambam 5:2, Talmud
Yerushalmi Ta’anis 4:5, Rashi Ta’anis 26b).
Since
these five tragedies occurred on the seventeenth of Tammuz, Chazal
designated this day as a fast (Rambam, SA 649-1). The purpose of the
fast day is to stir our hearts and do Teshuva-repentance for our own deeds
and those of our forefathers (MB 549-1, KSA 121-1, Rabbi Chaim Brisker
ZT”L see TV Vol. 3-154, Moadim B’Halacha). One should not make a mistake
and think that by just refraining from eating and drinking one fulfills this
requirement and the purpose of the day. Just the opposite, one must search
one’s soul and repent for any sins that one may have committed, if one just
sits around and wastes the day without contemplating one’s deeds one has not
fulfilled the purpose of the fast. Similarly, one should not go on a
pleasure trip on a fast day (CA 133-1, MB-1, KSA 121-1, Sefer Erech
Apayim). In a situation that one does not need to fast (e.g. a sick
person), one nevertheless is required to do Teshuva (TV Vol. 3-154).
Chazal
did not prohibit all types of pleasures on this fast day as they did on
Tisha B’Av and Yom Kippur. On this fast, only eating and drinking were
prohibited. Washing, anointing, wearing leather shoes and marital relations
are permitted (SA 550-2, K’sav Sofer OC Vol. 100, see Likutai Hoaros on the
K’sav Sofer). Some are stringent upon themselves in the other prohibitions,
and only allow wearing leather shoes (MA 550-3 in the name of the Shelah, CA
133-7, MB-10), however, many do not follow this view. Washing for medical
purposes is permitted according to all opinions, even with hot water (MB
550-6, KH-13). Although washing with cold water is permitted and therefore
one is permitted to go swimming on this fast day, some Poskim are of the
opinion that one should not go swimming on this day (BM Vol. 3-77). Other
Poskim permit one to go into the water to cool oneself off if it is a hot
day or for health reasons (Rivevos Ephraim Vol. 1. 363 (1), BM). Some are
stringent and do not eat meat or drink wine before or after a fast (Marshal
92, ER 558-4, KH 564-12).
On all
fast days other than Yom Kippur and Tisha B’Av, an ill person should not
fast even if the illness is not life-threatening (MB 550-4, KH -7). One
should consult with his Rav in all situations.
Some
Poskim are of the opinion that a pregnant woman or nursing mother should
fast. If she is suffering or is very weak, even if there is no danger to her
life, she should not fast (SA 554-5, MB-5, YO Vol. 7-49). Other Poskim
disagree, and rule that a pregnant woman or nursing mothers are not required
to fast (Nitai Gavriel 2:6). The Steipler Rav ZT”L held that if she is a
little weak she does not need to fast on this day (Orchos Rabbeinu Vol. 2
Page 127).
Those
that are not required to fast should not indulge in sweets and candies. Even
young children above the age of six years old, if they understand the
meaning of the fast, should not be given chocolate and cake, but only that
which is necessary for their sustenance (MA 550-2, DT 550, MB-5, Nitai
Gavriel 2-4, KH 550-9, BM Vol. 8-98). If a child takes items by himself,
then one is not required to stop him (BM).
One is
permitted to brush one’s teeth with a dry toothbrush on all minor fast days
except Yom Kippur and Tisha B’Av. If this causes discomfort, it is
permissible to brush one’s teeth with toothpaste and water, (except for Yom
Kippur and Tisha B’Av). However, one must be careful not to lean one’s head
back so as not to swallow any water (MB 567-11, AH-3, BM Vol. 8-94, Minchas
Yitzchok Vol. 2-109). One is permitted to swallow one’s saliva (MB 567-13,
see CA 132-22, Bais Meir, ME 612-7).
It is
permissible for an ill person to take medication on minor fast days. A pill
or bitter-tasting liquid medicine should be taken without water, if
possible. If one needs water, only a small amount should be taken. Some add
salt or other substance to the water to make it somewhat bitter (Halachos
Ketanos Vol. 2-97, KH 554-34, Igros Moshe OC Vol. 3-91, TE Vol. 10-25 Chap.
22, Yalkut Yoseph, Daas Torah 567-1).
If one
made a mistake and recited a bracha and then remembered that it is a fast
day, one should not taste the food but rather say “Boruch Shem K’vod
Malchuso Leolam Vaed” (ST 568-1, MH 7-80, TV Vol. 1-329, YO Vol. 2
YD-5).
If one
made a mistake and ate something on the fast day, one should nevertheless
continue to fast. One is not obligated to fast another day (Matai Ephraim
602-23, Maharsham Vol. 4-20, MB 549-3 & 548-8, KH 549:7, YD, TV Vol. 1-328).
One
should make the special effort not to get angry on a fast day (ER 568-18).
-------------------------------------------
HAKOL KOL YAAKOV!
When Bnei Yisrael approached Edom and asked to travel through the main road
of their country and pay nicely for it, Bnei Yisrael attempted explained to
the people of Edom that Hashem loved His people, and listened to their cries
and took them out of Egypt. Rashi (Bamidbar 20:16) writes that, by
‘listening to their cries’, Bnei Yisrael were telling the people of Edom
that when we cry out we are answered. This is an extremely important
lesson for us--HaKol Kol Yaakov does not only mean that we are a
people who pray--it also means that we are a people whose prayers are
answered! As we begin to focus on the period of time ahead of us with a
special yearning for the Beis HaMikdash--let us remember that we are the
people whose prayers are answered!
=================================
14 Tammuz
NINETEEN WEEKS:
As we
especially dedicate ourselves to the ninth Bracha of Shemone Esrei this
week, we provide the following words of instruction from the great
Praying with Passion Series (in order to go through this entire
outstanding series on Tefillah, please visit
http://prayingwithfire.org/archives.html):
“Of
all the hishtadlus a person can apply toward earning a living, there is one
‘trick of the trade’ that helps to ensure success. That is to pray with
sincerity for financial success (Maharsha on Kiddushin 29b). By praying with
Kavannah, a person illustrates unequivocally that he knows to Whom he must
turn to obtain his daily bread. Consider the following: The owner of a
fast-growing business comes to the realization that he lacks the expertise
to manage his company’s finances. He carefully researches the field and
finds a highly qualified business manager to reorganize the business.
However, the owner cannot bear to completely give up control of the
finances. Therefore, he tells the manager, “You run half the business and I
will keep control of the other half.” The manager consents to the
arrangement, and watches in dismay as the owner’s half of the company’s
affairs continue to descend into chaos. The manager realizes, however, that
if the owner will not hand over control, he cannot help him. Bitachon in
Hashem’s management of one’s livelihood operates much like the allegory
above illustrates. Hashem manages, guides and protects the livelihoods of
those who hand Him control. Those who imagine that they can succeed on the
strength of their own ability, however, make a choice that subjects them to
the rule of the natural forces Hashem has put into the world (Chovos
Halevovos beginning of Sha’ar Habitachon). The bracha of “Bareich Aleinu”
echoes the Gemara’s (Shabbos, 107b) description that Hashem, “sits [in
Heaven above] and provides food and sustenance [for every living organism
below], from the huge mammoths to the microscopic insect eggs”. In this
light, it is fitting that the bracha concludes in the present tense,
Baruch Atta Hashem Mevareich Hashanim, “Blessed are You, Hashem, Who
blesses the years.” This expresses our firm belief that Hashem will not only
bless us now--but will fulfill His promise to bless the years to come!”
--------------------------------------------------------------
AN ADDITIONAL THOUGHT--ANA HASHEM HATZLICHA NAH: The following essential
teaching is excerpted from Growth Through Tehillim by Rabbi Zelig
Pliskin, Shlita, on the Pasuk of Ana Hashem Hoshiah Nah, Ana Hashem
Hatzlicha Nah--please Hashem save now, please Hashem bring success now (Tehillim
118:25):
“The two halves of this
verse are separated in Hallel, and are usually said with great fervor. Let
these two phrases be on your lips whenever you need Hashem’s help. When you
are faced with a difficulty of any kind, call upon Hashem to save you. Even
when you need fellow human beings to come to your rescue, ask Hashem to send
the right help at the right time. A fire engine or ambulance needs to arrive
at the correct destination safely, to be of help. If you ever need their
services, say this short prayer. If you need to ask someone for financial
assistance, say this short prayer. If you are in a highly challenging
situation, remember to ask Hashem for help. You might have an emergency that
needs immediate attention. The words of this verse take only a brief moment
to say with feeling. Call upon the Omniscient and Omnipotent One to save
you.
When you repeat the second
half of this verse--Ana Hashem Hatzlicha Nah, you are asking Hashem
to make your efforts successful. We may say what we think needs to be said
for success. We may take the actions we think need to be taken for success.
We may make great plans and have ambitious goals. We may mentally visualize
ourselves being successful. We may use affirmations and auto-suggestion. We
may learn from the most successful role models that there are. We may hire a
personal coach. We may network and gain rapport with all the right people.
We may read the best-selling books on success, and listen to the latest
audio programs. We may attend success seminars. Ultimately, however, whether
or not we will be successful will depend on the Almighty’s Will. If He
wishes, we can be successful even if we do not do everything that success
experts advise us to do, and if Hashem does not want us to succeed, we will
not--even if we make all the proper efforts. We need to do our part, and we
should take the advice of experts and learn from those who have been
successful--but uppermost in our minds should be our connection with our
Father, our King, Creator and Sustainer of the universe. Repeat this verse
whenever you need success: “Please, Hashem, bring success now.” Together
with whatever else you are doing, you are adding the most important
ingredient for success. Throughout your life you will strive for major
goals. Your entire future may seem to depend on whether or not you will be
successful. Ask Hashem for success. In addition, there are relatively minor
goals where you will want to be successful. Even a relatively mundane thing
like going to the store to buy groceries, needs success. The same applies to
many things that we often take for granted: Making a routine telephone call.
Asking someone for directions to get somewhere. Buying or selling any item.
Requesting a small loan. Arriving on time for an appointment-- even getting
the appointment in the first place. The impact of many of these things
might not be great, but your success in your endeavors will enhance your
life, while not being successful could cause distress. When you realize that
your success is absolutely dependent on the will of Hashem and you connect
with Him by asking for His blessing of success, the spiritual impact of what
you are doing increases the value of your success. You are already
successful, regardless of how the specific details ultimately unfold!
I was talking with someone who tended to panic easily. When faced with
difficulties,
he generally lost all sense of perspective. He viewed molehills
as mountains,
and
as soon as anything would go wrong,
he immediately pictured the worst possible outcome. His extreme anxiety
prevented him from thinking clearly.
When he was calm,
he was able to come up with highly creative solutions.
But his intense stress created such static,
that his thinking process shut down. Anxiety blocked his ability to use his
common sense,
and he certainly could not think creatively - even obvious
solutions were overlooked. I suggested that he pray to Hashem for Divine
assistance. Simply knowing that he had
“dialed
the number for emergency help”
was likely to help him become calmer. Then he would be able to think more
clearly. Even if he himself couldn’t
think of what to do, Hashem has many ways to assist him.
“But
when I
am in my panic state,
I cannot pray,”
he said. I recommended that he recite this verse,
as his prayer. I told him he should practice saying it, when he is
calm,
and then,
he could visualize himself being in his panic state.
As soon
as he was aware that he was experiencing panic,
he should repeat this verse
a number of
times,
and then he should see himself becoming calm.
“Keep
imagining this,
many times. Every time you visualize this,
you are making these pictures stronger and stronger in your brain’s
neurons. Be
patient.
With enough practice, eventually - without any conscious effort:
on your part-- you will automatically start asking Hashem to save you and
make you
successful.
With your
calmer state and with the power of prayer, you will find solutions faster
than ever before.
This has worked for many,
and it
is very likely that it will work for you.
“
Whether
or not he persisted until
this
worked for
him,
you,
the
reader,
can choose to put this into practice.
All those who have done
so - since
the
first time these words were
written
in
Tehillim
--have
benefited
spiritually,
emotionally,
and practically!”
Hakhel
Note: Let us review this teaching a second and a third time--and strive to
implement it in the most practical ways in our daily lives!
=================================
13 Tammuz
NAH, NAH:
The Chida writes in the name of Kadmonim writes that when Moshe
Rabbeinu was Mispallel for Miriam, he recited the words ‘Kel Nah Refah
Nah Lah’--with the word ‘Nah’ twice in his Tefillah, because he had
learned from the Malochim that doing so makes Tefillos effective. We
fascinatingly add that in the next week’s Parasha of Shelach after the
Meraglim came back with their horrific report, Moshe Rabbeinu was Mispallel
to save K’lal Yisrael. There too, he used the word ‘Nah’ twice (see Madibar
14:17, 19). In perhaps one of our most powerful Tefillos at the end of
Hallel, we exclaim: “Anah Hashem Hoshia Nah, Anah Hashem Hatzlicha
Nah” (Tehillim 118:25)--once again, utilizing the word Nah
two times.
Hakhel Note: We obviously do not know the deeper meaning behind mentioning
the word Nah twice. It is, however, noteworthy that there are 51 days
(the Gematria of Nah) from the onset of Pesach to Shavuos, and 51 days from
Rosh Chodesh Elul to Hoshana Rabba--certainly two periods of Ruchniyus
elevation!
----------------------------------------------------------
VEYACHPERU V’YOVEIDU:
In our day, we cannot properly fathom the great import and potency of Ruach
HaKodesh. Last week, however, we all became privy to a stunning example. An
oft-recited Kepitel in our time is Tehillim 83--Shir Mizmor L’Asaf,
in which we daven that Hashem quash our enemies. Towards the end of the
Kepitel (83:18), the Pasuk reads: “Yeivoshu V’Yeba’halu Adei Ahd
Veyachperu V’Yoveidu”. In previous generations, it would have been
difficult to explain the phrase as ‘they will dig (Veyachperu)
a terror tunnel and be killed in it (V’Yoveidu)’. Yet, in our very
generation--we have learned a new p’shat--clearly one that was intended by
Dovid HaMelech (and/or his predecessor Asaf)--with their Ruach
HaKodesh--thousands of years ago!
----------------------------------------------------------
CHODOSH UPDATE!
We understand that certain items will become Chodosh earlier than what might
otherwise be expected. To obtain the update, please call The Chodosh Hotline
(24 hours a day) at 718-305-5133.
----------------------------------------------------------
FROM A READER:
“The
Sefer Shulchan Gavo’ah brings from the Chofetz Chaim that one who
recites the bracha of Asher Yatzar with Kavannah has the ability to quash
many sicknesses. A Talmid Chochom of a previous generation relates that he
once visited the Chofetz Chaim and noted that when the Chofetz Chaim recited
Asher Yatzar he did so from a Siddur, moving his finger from word to word as
he recited it.” Hakhel Note: If a Gadol HaDor can do this--perhaps we can
try to do so as well!
----------------------------------------------------------
AN
OUTSTANDING QUOTE (IN YIDDISH):
HaRav
Yeruchem Levovitz, Z’tl, is quoted as follows: “Zerizus is Nisht in De
Fis, Zerizus is in De Kup--the middah of alacrity is not based on the
reaction of one’s feet--but on that of one’s mind.” HaRav Ezriel Erlanger,
Shlita, explains that Zerizus is really an attitude--it is
a mental alertness to accomplish one’s mission and goals expediently and
efficiently. Hakhel Note: Everyone can work on Zerizus--it is an
attitude!
----------------------------------------------------------
HYDRATING! Rabbi Yisroel Pinchos Bodner, Shlita, author of Halachos of
Brachos, advises as follows: Drinking water to hydrate
creates questions as to whether brachos are applicable. The best advice is
to drink juice and recite a bracha rishona and achrona. A better suggestion
from a practical as well as halacha standpoint is for one to drink his
favorite flavored sport drink (e.g., Gatorade) with electrolytes before a
fast. It will hydrate, and there will not be any
bracha shailos as a bracha rishona and achrona will definitely be required.
----------------------------------------------------------
YOU
WILL AFFECT HIS FUTURE!
The Chofetz Chaim writes that if one listens to Lashon Hara--even with the
specific intent not to believe it--he is Nosein Yad L’Poshim--he
is spreading intentional sin. Why? Because if a person speaking sees that
his Lashon Hara is being listened to today, then he will try again
tomorrow--with you or someone else. On the other hand, one who responds
by saying: “I do not want to listen to this” or “This is not for me” will
discourage the speaker from speaking Lashon Hara in the future--to
you and to others. Thus, by stopping the wrongdoer--you are not only
protecting yourself with the proper response, the Chofetz Chaim teaches, but
you may be helping the person who started to speak improperly--for the
rest of his life--and all to your credit! Hakhel Note: We remind our
readers that if one has heard Lashon Hara before he had the chance to stop
it, or before he realized what was coming--he still has a way out of the
issur. One should immediately search for a zechus regarding the
one spoken about--which has the effect of undoing the Lashon Hara
that was theretofore spoken. This is one of those rare instances--like
Teshuvah--in which one can actually undo that which may have been
done. Remember to use it--and to tell others about it!
----------------------------------------------------------
MORE ESSENTIAL ADVICE FROM THE
CHOFETZ CHAIM IN BEIN ADAM L’CHAVEIRO:
PART 2
1. If
a buyer knows that the article he wishes to buy has increased in price and
the seller is not aware of this, the buyer must advise him of the increase
in price (Likutei Amarim, Chapter 2).
2. If
the seller knows of any blemish in the material, he must so advise the
buyer, whatever his nationality (ibid.).
3. To
cheat somebody in weights, measures, or count is prohibited, in respect of
anyone even if it is less than the share ona’ah (1/6th) (ibid.).
4. If
one wants to hire a worker or service provider, he must set a price with the
worker up-front, for if one doesn’t, it is very likely that he will end up
being termed a gazlan or an osheik sechar sachir according to Torah law.
One hires many workers in the course of a year, and unless he maintains this
as a hard and fast rule, one will ultimately end up with a disgruntled party
who will either not be Mochel him B’Lev Shaleim or will actually end up in a
disagreement or fight with him. Even if one shortchanges another by one
peruta he is called a gazlan according to the Torah. The
only real alternative if one has failed to predetermine the cost, is to pay
whatever the worker asks for, which is also very difficult. The Chofetz
Chaim adds that if the employer is considered a Talmid Chochom, then the
terrible aveira of Chillul Hashem could be added to the mix, with the worker
claiming that “a Talmid Chochom stole from me.” Remember--set the price
in advance! (Sefas Tamim, Chapter 5)
5.
Monetary matters must be kept in a proper perspective. Just as one would
not put a piece of meat into his mouth unless he knew it was Kosher, so too,
should it be with money--not bringing money into his possession or keeping
it with him unless he knows that it truly belongs to him. In this regard,
the Chofetz Chaim writes that anyone who is a “Yerei Elokim L’Amito”
and wants to be involved in business must learn Choshen Mishpat, Cheilek
Sheini, which contains many of the practical Halachos of business. Before
beginning to learn the Halachos, the Chofetz Chaim continues, one should be
guided by the rule that anything that one doesn’t want others to do to him
(i.e., something which is ‘not right’ or ‘appears unfair’, etc.) he should
be sure not to do to others (Likutei Amarim, Chapter 2).
It is
fascinating to note that Chazal teach that when one uses his money
wisely--acting with justice and giving charity, he will bring about the
Geulah which we all so long for--as the Posuk teaches “Tzion B’Mishpat
Tipadeh V’Shaveah B’Tzedaka” (Shabbos 139B). Let’s use our money
properly and wisely--and bring about the Geulah!
=================================
12 Tammuz
SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
We continue our Summer Improvement Program, with simple suggestions, on a
weekly basis, in each of the areas of Bein Adam LaMakom, Bein Adam
L’Chaveiro, and Bein Adam L’Atzmo. Of course, these are only
suggestions--but every person has the opportunity to join with others who
will be attempting the same successes. In the alternative, one can chart his
own improvement course on a weekly basis as well.
WEEK 3--PARASHAS BALAK
Bli neder, at least one time a day during this week, consciously do
the following:
Bein Adam LaMakom:
Respond to a news item, objective situation or personal circumstance with
the words “Ain Od Milevado”, and look up to Shomayim (as K’lal
Yisrael did in last week’s Parasha)
Bein Adam L’Chaveiro:
Perform an unrequested Chesed before breakfast
Bein Adam L’Atzmo:
Do not ‘lose your cool’ even though it appears justifiable and may be even
correct to do so (as per Shimu Nah HaMorim in last week’s Parasha)
----------------------------------------------------------
NINETEEN WEEKS!
We are now in the ninth of the nineteen week period prior to Rosh
Hashana. In past years, we have proceeded weekly, Bracha by Bracha, through
Shemone Esrei with a special emphasis on Kavannah on that week’s Bracha.
This week’s Bracha is… Barech Aleinu!
It is fascinating to note that this is the only bracha of Shemone Esrei that
begins with the word Barech--specifically seeking bracha at
the outset. Perhaps this is an allusion to the fact that while it may be
easier to have Bitachon in other areas--Hashem will help me with Teshuva,
Hashem will provide the Refuah, Hashem will provide the Geulah--it is more
difficult to have a complete trust in areas of Parnassah. After all, don’t
I earn a living because of my expertise, my skill, my unique abilities, my
training, in my profession or job? So, at the outset, we clear and clean
our minds--ridding ourselves of western thoughts and beliefs--as we aver
that our Parnassah comes only because of Your blessing--which we
whole-heartedly ask for. Moreover, when we recognize that our livelihood,
our sustenance--every dollar and cent is from Hashem--then ipso facto our
monies will be blessed because we will seek, earn, keep and possess only
honest funds--as we recognize it all as emanating from Hashem. We then
follow with the word Aleinu to emphasize that we want the
bracha of Barech to apply not only to us, but to all our people--so
that no one is tempted by his Yetzer Hara to follow any inappropriate means
of moving money into his pocket, and so that people who currently do not
have enough to make ends meet can see and savor Hashem’s blessing of
sustenance with joy . Accordingly, we daven for those who are indigent, for
all those currently in need, and for all of our brethren. The Sefer
Ya’aros Devash notes that the Ikar of Parnassah comes not through
Din, but through Rachamim, and so it is essential that we have the proper
Kavannah in this bracha, imploring Hashem’s Rachamim upon us and upon all of
K’lal Yisrael.--Barech Aleinu --let the words sink in--and
flow out!
In addition to the above note,
we provide by the following link additional notes to the Nineteen Brachos
for the years 5771 and 5772
http://www.hakhel.info/TefillahArchive.html
Additional sources for study are the Praying with Passion Series
(available at
www.prayingwithfire.org), the
magnificent Rav Schwab on Prayer, the Tefillah Tapes of Rabbi Berel
Wein, Shlita.
-------------------------------------------------
12
TAMMUZ:
According to the daughter of HaRav Elchanan Wasserman, Z’tl, H’yd, he was
killed Ahl Kiddush Hashem on either the 12th or 13th of Tammuz in
5701 (1941). HaRav Elchanan teaches that the words “Nachamu Nachamu Ami”
refer to a double nechama--the first nachamu for the disasters
and suffering experienced by the world at large that we live through and
experience together with them, and a second nachamu for the
punishment meted out directly against us. Let us daven to Hashem that He
provide the double nechama that we all need without the need
of any further reminders, tribulations or harm.
-------------------------------------------------
WITHIN 30 DAYS:
The
following is excerpted from the foreword by HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita
(Mattisyahu Chaim Ben Ettel L’Refuah Sheleimah), to the Sefer Yearning
with Fire by Rabbi Heshy Kleinman, Shlita:
“Who
among us mourns for Yerushalayim? Who among us appreciates what we are
missing? Who among us pleads with Hashem for a rebuilt Yerushalayim because
he feels an aching need for it? Who among us exclaims in complete
sincerity, “If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, may my right hand forget its
power”? The Yerushalayim for which we long so desperately and whose loss we
have mourned for thousands of years - it is not the land and the buildings
of Yerushalayim that we miss. It is the supreme connection with Hashem that
Yerushalayim represents. Recreating Yerushalayim in our imaginations as a
conduit for our prayers is the best available to us right now, but it is no
comparison to a rebuilt Yerushalayim, crowned with a shining Temple in which
the Divine Presence will dwell forever. Only when we appreciate what
Yerushalayim represents and what we have lost can we grieve over its
destruction….Deep in our hearts, we must recreate the exalted idea of
Yerushalayim, of unity among all Jews in the quest for ever greater
closeness to Hashem. If only we can do this, Hashem may just decide to let
us see Yerushalayim rebuilt speedily in our days!”
Hakhel
Note: Chazal teach that within thirty days of a Yom Tov, we are to begin
learning about that Yom Tov. As we know, Tisha B’Av is referred to as a ‘Mo’ed’--and
it would behoove us to begin thinking the thoughts during these thirty
advance days of Yerushalayim and the need for our Geulah. In his masterful
work, Yearning with Fire, Rabbi Kleinman explains how one can do his
part in fulfillment and accomplishment of Tzipisah LiShuah. This
clear and movingly written Sefer is divided into 5-minute a day segments, to
study over an 89 day period. If one starts today, he will finish
approximately on Yom Kippur. Hopefully our Geulah will have taken place
well before then--while one is in the process of longing for it! In all
events--after 120 years one of the questions a person is asked is ‘Tzipisah
LiShuah--did you truly anticipate the redemption?’ If one has read the
Sefer, he certainly has the beginnings of a good answer…and if one applies
what he learned from the Sefer--he will have even a better answer
----------------------------------------------
FIVE IMPORTANT POINTS ON OUR
DAILY DAVENING:
A. A reader pointed out that the Radak on the Posuk of Va’ani Berov
Chasdecha…Eshtachaveh El Heichal Kadshecha (Tehillim 5:8) writes that
the term Heichal Kadshecha refers to the Heichal of the Bais
HaMikdash, “for when one bows towards Hashem he should envision the Bais
HaMikdash in front of him and bow to Hashem in front of it (!).”
B. Before reciting the Birchos HaShachar every morning, one should recognize
that he is not simply reciting the same Brachos as he did yesterday morning,
and the morning before, and the morning before. Rather, each bracha, each
and every day--is a ‘new and fresh bouquet of flowers’ being handed to him
by none other than Hashem Himself--each and every morning as he arises!
(based on the Sefer Praying with Meaning, by Rabbi Heshy Kleinman,
Shlita)
C. The Rema (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 61:14) writes that when reciting
the first Posuk of Shema, one should stop in between Hashem and Elokeinu,
and then again between Elokeinu and the second mention of Hashem so that
one understands the Posuk to mean “Hear (Understand) Yisrael that
Hashem Who Is Elokeinu He Is the One and Only Hashem. One
should then pause for a moment before reciting Boruch Shem, because one’s
Ikar Kabalas Ol Malchus Shomayim is in this first Posuk of Shema.
D. The Mishna (Brachos 34B) relates that Rebbi Chanina Ben Dosa could tell
whether his particular Tefillah was going to be accepted or not. The Gemara
explains that it was the FIRST bracha--the bracha of Avos--that was
determinative according to Rebbi Chanina. If this bracha was recited well
and without disturbance or difficulty, and he felt that the bracha flowed
from his heart, then he took this as a sign that his Tefillah was acceptable
and wanted. If, however, the first Bracha did not go well, with the words
not coming forth smoothly and other thoughts causing him Tirda, then he knew
that the remainder of his Tefillah was going to be problematic and c’v
unanswered. We believe that there is a great lesson here for each and every
one of us. It is extremely important that we focus on the First Bracha of
Shemone Esrei, putting in our strong efforts to make it Kavannah-filled and
successful. If we do so, the B’EH, it will be a Siman Tov for the rest of
our Shemone Esrei!
E. Chazal (ibid.) conclude that a person should not Daven in a room unless
it has windows. This is based on the Posuk in Sefer Doniel, which
specifically states that “Windows were open in his attic” as he davened
towards Yerushalayim. Rashi explains that the windows are essential, for a
person looks up towards Heaven and humbles himself, which should greatly
assist his Kavanna in Tefillah. This serves as a lesson to us--we should
lift up our eyes to the Heavens, recognizing not just our humanity and
humility--but Hashem’s vastness and greatness.
----------------------------------------------
ESSENTIAL ADVICE FROM THE CHOFETZ
CHAIM IN BEIN ADAM L’CHAVEIRO:
Set forth below, we provide some essential points of advice from the Chofetz
Chaim in areas of Bein Adam LeChaveiro:
PART 1
A. The more one supports a Torah Scholar, the greater one’s portion in the
reward of his Torah is. One must be careful to always give the support
BeSever Panim Yafos--with the same feeling as one gives to one’s partner in
business who has made many great deals on his behalf with the money that has
been given to him (Sefer Ahavas Chesed, Chapter 20).
B. One should recognize that Dibur, the power of speech, is the ‘Chaviv
MeKol Chaviv’--so precious because with this power one completes his
Tzuras HaAdam. Therefore, just as one who has much silver, gold, and jewels
carefully secures and protects it, so too, should one carefully guard his
mouth and that which comes out of it (Sefer Shemiras HaLashon 2:2).
C. Only after Hashem made man out of dirt from the ground did he instill in
his nostrils a Nishmas Chaim (“Vayipach Beapav Nishmas Chaim”)--unlike all
the other animals who were created with their body and life spirit
simultaneously. There is a great lesson in this for us. We too, must take
the Afar Min HaAdama, the Gashmiyus of this world--and instill into
it a Ruach Chaim through our thoughts and words. Our life’s goal is to make
the physical spiritual. Look what we can do with our mouths--we can say
about a piece of wood, a stone, livestock or anything else that it is
“Kodesh LaHashem”, and with these words alone, one who violates the Kedusha
created would violate the laws of Me’ilah and could even c’v be liable for
Kareis (such as by shechting a Korban outside the Bais HaMikdash). One does
not, however, have to be in or near the Bais HaMikdash to apply this concept
of Vayipach Beapav Nishmas Chaim. When one, for instance, has the proper
thoughts and intents before eating--to be healthy in Hashem’s service and to
fulfill one’s role and potential in this world; when one has the proper
thoughts when engaged in his business or profession--so that he earn an
honest living without taking that which belongs to others, etc., then one
has breathed the breath of life into his daily activities. There is a great
difference between a person who works hard or toils with a Cheshbon
in mind throughout the day, and a person who merely goes from one daily task
to the next until he puts his body into a bed and goes to sleep. Before
beginning any activity--no matter how mundane--think of the Nishmas
Chaim that you intend to breathe into it! (Sefer Toras HaBayis,
Chasimas HaSefer)
=================================
9 Tammuz
THE
GREATEST TEACHER:
Although each of us should have his Rosh Yeshiva, Rav, Posek or Rebbi whom
he closely follows and whose guidance he adheres to, Rabbi Yosef Eisen,
Shlita, points out in the name of Gedolim that our first and most prominent
teacher is Avraham Avinu himself--as the Mishna in this week’s Perek (Avos
5:22) teaches: “Whoever has the following three traits is among the
disciples of Avrohom Avinu--Ayin Tovah, Ruach Nemucha V’Nefesh
Shifalah--a good towards others, a humble spirit and one who does not
pursue desires.” It behooves us greatly to follow each of the fundamental
teachings of our first and foremost Rebbi!
-------------------------------------------
YES--YOU ARE
WHAT YOU WEAR!
In this week’s Parasha, we are taught that when the Amaleikim went to war
against Bnei Yisrael, they tried hiding themselves by speaking not their
language, but the language of the Kena’anim. Nevertheless, the Bnei Yisrael
realized that something was awry when they saw their antagonists with
Amaleiki clothing. Accordingly, Bnei Yisrael davened a general Tefillah
that Hashem save them from the enemies--a Tefillah that worked beautifully.
Rebbi Simcha Bunim of Peshischa, Z’tl, asked: “Why did the Amaleikim dress
in their own clothing--whom did they think they were fooling?!” He answered
that their clothing was obviously so important to them that they would not
give it up for any reason--even at the expense of their not being able to
fool the Bnei Yisrael! With this, he teaches, how important it is for us,
as the Mamleches Kohanim V’Goi Kadosh to keep our clothing special,
holy, and separate. It is not coincidence, as it never is, that this
teaching comes to us with the summer months upon us. We must be exceedingly
careful to keep our standards of dress when davening, when learning, and
when among the nations on the streets and when on vacation--and even in the
privacy of our own home! Amaleik, as the lowest of nations, did not change
their dress. We, as the most royal most certainly cannot and must not
change ours!
----------------------------------------------
THE
NINTH DAY OF TAMMUZ:
Today is the ninth day of Tammuz. According to the Pesukim in Navi (Melachim
II 25:3, Yirmiyah 39:2) today is the day that Nevuchadnetzar’s army, which
had been besieging Yerushalayim, actually breached its walls. King
Tzidkiyahu and his Anshei Chayil fled from Yerushalayim that night, and were
captured escaping through a cave in the Plains of Yericho. Accordingly,
today was a day of fasting during the 70 years of Churban Bayis Rishon.
Because the walls of the Second Beis HaMikdash were breached on the 17th of
Tammuz, we have fasted on that day since the Churban Bayis Sheni. The
Talmud Yerushalmi (Ta’anis 4:5) records that it was actually on the 17th of
Tammuz that the walls were breached in the first Beis HaMikdash, as well,
but the people were so confused and perplexed--there was such upheaval--that
the populace mistook the day for the 9th of Tammuz, and accordingly the
Pesukim reflected it that way for posterity, as well. Undoubtedly, if the
people believed it was the 9th, and if the Pesukim in fact specifically
refer to the 9th, the force and influence of the 17th must rest in and with
the 9th, as well.
We
posit that a day which has destruction inherent within it also has the
concomitant power of building and healing contained within it. The greatest
example is the “Moed” of Tisha B’Av itself--which in the time of the
Meraglim could have been--and ultimately and soon will be--a time of great
celebration. Even though we will not be fasting today, we can certainly
find it within ourselves to pray for the building of the Beis HaMikdash, and
act in a manner which demonstrates that we truly desire its rebuilding. In
this regard, we provide the following thought:
Chazal
teach that “Pischu Li Pehsach…”--open for Me an opening the size of
the point of a needle, and I will open for you an opening which is the size
of the Ulam’s opening in the Beis HaMikdash (the Ulam’s opening was 40 Amos,
or at least 60 feet, tall and 20 Amos, or at least 30 feet, wide). The
Kotzker Rebbe comments as follows: Hashem asks of a man to open his heart
to the extent of a needle’s point. However, small as this may be, it must
still be a needle’s point--needle-sharp--piercing through the material in
its entirety. Whatever Teshuva we do must pierce through the very insides
of our being--it must penetrate through and through. Hashem, in turn, will
help us, so that our Teshuva will become more profound--to the point of an
Ulam! We add simply that the opening of the Ulam is not only the largest
opening that we can think of--but it is also the largest opening of the Beis
HaMikdash. Through sincere Teshuva--we will see the opening of the Ulam in
the Beis HaMikdash itself! (The source for the Kotzker Rebbe’s teaching is
the Sefer VSheeNonTom, by Rabbi Elias Schwartz, Shlita).
-------------------------------------
WE
CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
The
following Halachos are P’sakim of HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, which are excerpted
from the monumental work, Sefer Ashrei HaIsh (Hebrew) published by
HaRav Yechezkel Feinhandler, Shlita.
A. In
the Bracha of Mai’ein Sheva in Shul on Friday night, one bows at the outset
as if he is beginning Shemone Esrei.
B.
The Mishna Berurah brings two opinions as to whether women are obligated to
Daven Mussaf. The first opinion (T’zlach) brought by the Mishna Berurah is
that women are exempt from Davening Mussaf. The Mishna Berurah then
continues with the words “but the Magein Giborim rules that women are
obligated to Daven Mussaf.” HaRav Elyashiv states that the rule of the
Mishna Berurah is that when he first quotes one opinion, and then states
‘Avol’ or ‘Achein’ (but) and brings a second opinion, the Mishna Berurah
rules in accordance with that second opinion. Accordingly, women are
obligated to Daven Mussaf (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 106; Mishna Berurah
seif katan 4).
C. It
is permissible to praise the Ba’las HaBayis for the Shabbos food that she
prepared, even if it is not tasty, and it is indeed a Mitzvah to do so.
D. If
one does not have whole loaves of bread, he can take whole cakes. If one
has only pieces of bread, he should take two pieces, with each one being at
least a K’zayis.
E. It
is permissible to use a frozen Challah for Lechem Mishna, even if it may not
defrost during the Seudah.
F.
One should not discard a Havdalah candle directly into the garbage. Rather,
to show Kavod for the Mitzvah, one should first wrap it 9just as with the
Shabbos candles, as we had mentioned last week).
G. If
a lense or a sidepiece broke off one’s glasses, the glasses and the pieces
are Muktzah, because one may come to fix them on Shabbos. If, however, a
piece broke fully or was totally destroyed, the glasses are not Muktzah if
they can be otherwise used as is--because we are not worried that you will
come to fix a piece that is totally broken or destroyed.
H. A
person can place a Siddur or Sefer on table in order to ensure that the
table will not become a Bosis to the Shabbos candles. However, it is a
Bizayon to the Sefer if one takes it only for this purpose and puts it on
the table. Rather, one should learn from the Sefer a bit, and then one may
leave it on the table.
I.
There is no problem utilizing thin, plastic tablecloths, plastic cups and
other plastic utensils, or tissues, on Shabbos even though they are used
once and discarded. This is not considered to involve “Bitul Kli MeHeichano”
because this is the object’s purpose to begin with. However, an object that
could be reused should not be used on Shabbos for something that will
require it to be discarded. For instance, a dirty diaper should not be
placed into a bag that could be reused and was not otherwise set aside for
this specific purpose. Accordingly, it would be advisable to set aside bags
for this purpose on Shabbos, so that there is no issue of “Bitul Kli
MeHeichano”.
J. A
telephone book is not Muktzah, for it can be used to look up addresses.
-------------------------------------
POINTS AND POINTERS ON THIS WEEK’S PARASHA, PARASHAS CHUKAS:
A. At the outset of this week’s Parasha, the Torah writes “Zos Chukas
HaTorah Asher Tzivah Hashem…this is the law of the Torah which Hashem
has commanded,”--and then the Torah adds, “Laymor, to say.” The
Chasam Sofer teaches that there is a remarkable lesson here. The chok--the
decree--of the Torah is Laymor--to say it, repeat it, tell it
over. Whatever Hashem commands, Laymor, say it, tell it, and
proclaim it to others. We are taught to not sit quietly at home and worry
only about our own personal spiritual elevation--but instead to aid and
guide those who transgress, and to assist others in coming closer to the
words of Hashem.
Rabbi Elias Schwartz, Shlita, of Yeshivas Toras Emes, writes:”American
people love to say: ‘Mind your own business.’ Our business is the spread of
Torah and Mitzvos. Accordingly, mind the Torah’s business as well. You
dare not and must not keep quiet if you can rectify a wrongdoing. Help
someone become a better person. Remember—Laymor--spread Ruchniyus by
constantly talking about it to others.”
B. The Chasam Sofer in this week’s Parasha also reminds us that Miriam was
nifterah on the tenth day of Nissan, and calculates that because the
be’er in her zechus continued to provide water through the shivah period.
The day that Moshe Rabbeinu was supposed to talk to the selah after
Bnei Yisrael thirsted for water was actually the twenty-first day of Nissan.
Taking a step back, then, the twenty-first day of Nissan was also the day of
Kriyas Yam Suf (the seventh day of Pesach)! Thus, Hashem was going to
demonstrate to the people that just as He could take water and turn it into
dry land, so too, could He take a rock and turn it into water. The resulting
Kiddush Hashem would have wondrously demonstrated to the people Hashem’s
utter Omnipotence in the extremes of nature and everything in between.
Hakhel Note: Even though our ancestors were not zoche to actually witness
the great contrast they could have experienced--nevertheless, we should take
the lesson and appreciate the infinite vastness of Hashem’s might and glory,
and remember that we can become close to Hashem, as Dovid HaMelech teaches (Tehillim
145:18): “Karov Hashem Lechol Kore’av Lechol Asher Yikre’uhu Ve’Emes--Hashem
is close to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him sincerely!”
C. Who had the power of speech and lost it? If you answered the Nachash,
the snake, then you of course responded correctly. The Middah K’neged
Middah is obvious--since he falsely and mockingly asserted to Chava that
Hashem ‘ate from the tree and created you’--he simply did not deserve to
have the power of speech--that had been given to him by Hashem! The
Meforshim explain that in this week’s Parasha, after complaining against so
much--against Hashem, against Moshe Rabbeinu and against the Mon, those who
were afflicted with the Nechashim HaSerafim were told to look at the Nechash
HaNechoshes in order to be healed and live. By understanding the error of
their ways in following the Nachash’s evil speech against Hashem,
they would realize never to do so again. The Meforshim (brought in the
Sefer Talelei Oros) add several other extremely important points
relating to the Nechash HaNechoshes, and its placement on a pole for K’lal
Yisrael to look up to:
1. The Maharal writes that just looking up to Shomayim itself creates a
feeling of awe and recognition of our Creator. Indeed, the Sefer
Chareidim writes that one should look up to Shomayim from time to time
and recite the Posuk “Ki Ereh Shamecha Ma’asei Etzbe’osecha Yare’ach
V’Chochavim Asher Konanta” (Tehillim 8:4).
2. The Sefas Emes writes that the snake was known as a ‘Segulah
Refuis’, something which provided (perhaps through its venom) special
healing medicines or potions. [We note that it is perhaps for this reason
the symbol of a pharmacist or apothecary is a snake on a pole or stick.] By
lifting the snake high up, Hashem intended for the people to understand that
even when being osek in medicines or therapies, they should lift
their eyes up to Heaven, and realize that everything is up to Hashem--there
are no real Segulah Refuis! Thus, when taking a medicine, even it be
an aspirin for a simple headache, or when undertaking physical therapy for a
broken arm, one ‘should look to Heaven’, affirming that one recognizes where
the Refuah is truly coming from. It is for this reason that the Yehi Ratzon:
“Yehi
Ratzon…Sheyehei
Aisek Zeh Li LeRefuah Ki Rofeh Chinam Attah” (Shulchan Aruch,
Orach Chaim 230:4)
is recited before taking medicine, going to a doctor, and the like.
3. Finally, it is fascinating to note that perhaps the famous piece of the
Sefer Nefesh HaChaim relating to Ain Od Milevado is
immediately followed with the description from this week’s
Parasha of the placement of the Nachash on the pole. The Sefer Nefesh
HaChaim then explains “K’Shehistaklu Klapei Ma’alah LeHaNachash
HaSoreif Hisbonenu Kocho HaRah, Im Kol Zeh Batluhu MiLibam…”-- When the
Bnei Yisrael looked to the Heavens and saw the snake on the pole they
understood its evil strength but voided it from their hearts and were not
concerned with its awesome power, and instead, truthfully subjugated their
hearts only to their Father in Heaven, and with this they were
healed. Hakhel Note: What a paradigm lesson for each and every one of us
in the world that we live in and the items, tests, and difficulties that we
encounter on a daily basis!
Additional Note One: Let us review a second time each and every one of the
above teachings and inculcate them into daily life!
Additional Note Two: Because the event of the Nechashim HaSerafim is
mentioned in the Tefillas Chofetz Chaim, we cannot let the occasion pass
without at least providing a few Lashon Hara Stoppers [we look
forward to your providing us with your Lashon Hara Stoppers as well!]:
“I don’t like to talk about controversial things.”
“I hope you don’t mind--I don’t want to talk about this now.”
“People said similar things about me and it hurt.”
“My father always taught me not to talk about people--and at the very least
I can listen to him about that!”
“Let’s help build the Beis HaMikdash now instead.”
D. In the Parasha, the Pasuk writes: “Al Kein Yomru HaMoshlim Bo’u
Cheshbon (Bamidbar 21:27)--therefore the ones who relate parables say:
‘Come to Cheshbon….’” Chazal teach that this Pasuk refers to one who wants
to rule--be moshel over his Yetzer Hara. How does he do so? He must
be a ‘Bo’u Cheshbon’--do a constant Cheshbon HaNefesh. The
Chofetz Chaim explains that if a person in business does not review and
update his books constantly, he will have no idea if he is making money or
losing money--and, moreover, the extent of his gain or loss. Additionally,
when one reviews his accounts receivable, he will notice those who have not
paid in months and realize that they are having financial difficulties or
are bankrupt. On the other hand, one who constantly pays something every
month--even if only in small amounts is clearly still in business, and
trying to remain an active customer. The Chofetz Chaim writes that our
spiritual practices deserve no less attention than our business practices.
We have to review our books and records in order to determine how our
spiritual business is running. Moreover, we have to note where we have
stopped ‘making payments’--has our davening come to a standstill in terms of
improving our Kavannah? Is our learning routine and uninspired? Are we
making no new inroads in Chesed? These are the spiritual accountings to
which we must turn. On the other hand, even if we make ‘small payments’
then we should recognize and encourage ourselves--for Hashem certainly notes
and records them. We emphasize that Chazal teach that the Cheshbon we are
referring to regarding each and every one of us is not a small matter or an
individual Cheshbon--it is ‘Cheshbono Shel Olam’--accounting for the
world. One can explain this to mean that each person is a world onto
himself, an Olam Katan--and that accordingly every person’s Cheshbon
is a Cheshbono Shel Olam. However, there is an aspect that is even
more significant--the thoughts, words and deeds of one person can constitute
the zechus that tips the scale and sways all of K’lal Yisrael and
indeed the world to continued life--and to Geulah! Every time one
undertakes to do a Cheshbon--he should remind himself that he is doing so
not only for his personal spiritual benefit and reaching his potential--but
for the benefit of his family, his friends, his community, K’lal Yisrael--and
very literally, the entire world! Remember this--and keep us all in
mind--with your Cheshbono Shel Olam!
E. Towards the end of the Parasha (Bamidbar 21:34), on the Pasuk “Al
Tirah Oso--do not fear [Og]”, both Rashi and the Ramban highlight
Moshe Rabbeinu’s fear of Og in contrast to his telling the Meraglim not to
fear and not to tremble (Devarim 1:29). How is it that when it comes to Og
Moshe Rabbeinu is afraid, and yet he expects fearlessness when it came to
the Meraglim? Rashi explains that Moshe Rabbeinu was afraid of one kind deed
that Og did to Avraham Avinu--he informed Avraham that Lot
was captured. This teaches us the amazing
power--and the amazing effects--of even one Chesed! Let us get to work!
-------------------------------------
THIS WEEK’S PIRKEI AVOS:
In this week’s Pirkei Avos (5:10), we learned “Arba Middos Ba’Adam--there
are four character types among people: one who says ‘What is mine is mine,
and what is your is yours’, is an average character type, but some say this
is the characteristic of Sedom....” Chazal teach us that if someone wants
to keep to himself, because he is a ‘private’ person, or has a lot of his
own issues to work on, or many different items on his own plate, and even if
willing to forego the camaraderie and assistance of others simply because he
wants to be left alone and take care of his own matters--this is at best
‘average’, and at worst ‘Middas Sedom’--for the people of Sedom also
obviously recognized that nobody would help them because of the way they
treated others--but it just did not matter because they wanted to help only
themselves. Hopefully, this attitude does not represent the vast majority
of us. No person who strives to reach his potential can be satisfied with
being average, and will most certainly not be happy with the character of
Sodom. Let us demonstrate how far away we really are from the Middos of
Sedom--and how very, very close we are to the Middos of the B’nai Yisrael as
Rachmonim, Baishonim and Gomlei Chasodim!
=================================
8 Tammuz
FROM THE LUACH BNEI YAAKOV:
“Today is 30 days before Tisha B’Av. The general principle is that we begin
to ask and learn about a Chag 30 days in advance. What should we do in
preparation for Tisha B’Av--should it be Hilchos Ta’anis, the laws of the
Three Weeks and Tisha B’Av--or Hilchos Yom Tov as Tisha B’Av is to be a day
of Sason and Simcha? The most appropriate suggestion would appear to be--to
learn Hilchos Teshuvah, which is applicable in either event, and most
certainly something that we can benefit from over the next 30 days!” [Quoted
in the Luach Davar B’Ito]
----------------------------------------------------------
THOUGHTS ON GALUS FROM HARAV CHATZKEL LEVENSTEIN, Z’TL:
“On the way to Japan, HaRav Chatzkel expressed to the Mirrer Talmidim the
following thoughts about the impending exile: The decree of exile is an
unnatural state that was expressly created for K’lal Yisrael. When we
consider its consequences, we find that no nation other than K’lal Yisrael
remains in existence after an appreciable time in exile. The Midrash relates
that Hashem asked Avrohom Avinu what punishment he chooses for his children
when they sin and there is no Beis HaMikdash to atone for their wrongdoing:
exile or purgatory? According to one opinion quoted in the Midrash, Avrohom
was unable to answer. In practical terms, the consequences of exile and
purgatory are strongly equated. Contrary to our understanding, its
deleterious effect upon our spiritual growth and well-being cannot be
overstated, we have no appreciation of the great measure of Divine mercy
needed as we pass from one regime to the next….” [Excerpted from
Rav Chatzkel, by Rabbi Yitzchak Kasnett, Shlita (Artscroll, p. 142)]
----------------------------------------------------------
A HUMBLE SPIRIT:
“The greater the person is, the more humble he should be. He should say to
himself, “Look at the potential that Hashem has endowed me with. Am I using
my capabilities to their fullest extent? Am I deserving of honor for my many
achievements if I am only working at 75% of my potential? It could be that
the town water carrier deserves more honor and respect because he struggles
to attain 95% of his limited potential!” The Chofetz Chaim was once
overheard talking to himself: “Yisroel Meir, look how much Hashem has given
you. He gave you the privilege to write a Sefer Chofetz Chaim, a
Shemiras HaLashon, an Ahavas Chesed and a Mishna Berurah.
He has given you a large yeshiva with hundreds of students. He has done so
much for you and what have you done for Him?” The
Chofetz Chaim did not congratulate himself on his many accomplishments and
the monumental Seforim which he authored. He was humbled by the realization
that his prodigious achievements meant that a great deal more was expected
of him. This prodded him to undertake new projects and write more Seforim
for the benefit of K’lal Yisrael and the glory of Torah!” [Excerpted from
A Humble Spirit--Practical and Down-to-Earth Insights and Ideas from the
Teachings of HaRav Avrohom Pam, Z’tl, by Rabbi Sholom Smith, Shlita]
----------------------------------------------------------
IMPORTANT INFORMATION!
One of the top students of HaRav Yisroel Salanter, Z’tl, HaRav Yitzchak
Blazer, Zt’l (known as R’ Itzele Peterburger), in his Sefer Kochvei Ohr
(Os 36) writes as follows (paraphrased): Our master and teacher
provided us with a very important piece of information. He taught us that
the body is not simply a garment or covering, and that a person’s feelings
of pleasure and pain continue to exist and live on after the he passes on
from this world…for at first glance, one would think that the body and soul
are two distinct entities, and that the body goes to the earth and the
punishment is received by the soul. This is a mistake! It is the same
person who remains, with only his outer covering removed when he passes away
from this world. Thus, it is not an ‘unknown’ Neshama that will receive
punishment if it sins--but the person himself will feel the pain of that
very punishment…and the person himself--and not just a ‘foreign soul’--will
imbibe the rewards of Torah observance and Mitzvah performance. There is
something more as well. HaRav Eliyahu Dessler, Z’tl, explains that a person
may feel that if he must be punished in Gehenom, that too shall pass, and
may not be overly worried about it. HaRav Dessler proves why this attitude
is incorrect from the following simple analogy: A person wakes up in the
middle of the night with a terrible toothache, and cannot fall back asleep.
He has no painkillers available, there is no pharmacy around and there is no
doctor to contact--he will have to wait until morning! The pained
individual continues to lie in bed and believes hours have passed and
daybreak is almost here--but then looks at his watch and sees that only a
few minutes have passed. Every minute of pain feels like eternity! That is
how the ‘short’ time span of punishment in Gehenom should be properly viewed
by us--now! Importantly and to the contrary, our experience of Simcha
passes by quickly in this world. When we are at a Chasunah and enjoying
it--it seems to pass by so quickly! However, in Gan Eden, the Simcha--will
never, ever cease! Plan your life appropriately!
--------------------------------------------
SUMMER SHAILOS:
Now
that the summer is very much upon us in the Northern Hemisphere, we provide
the following Shailos and Teshuvos are questions that we had asked Rabbi
Yisroel Belsky, Z’tl, in the past, and his responses are either taken from
his handwritten responses to us or from recordings of Hakhel Shiurim at
which the questions were asked. If one needs further clarification, he
should consult with his Rav or Posek, who in any event should be the final
decisor for any person’s particular Shailah.
SUMMER SHAILOS PART 1
QUESTION: Until what age is a woman/man permitted
to take her young son/daughter to the pool?
ANSWER:
The age of five is a good cut-off point for taking children of the opposite
gender to the pool. In the case of a more mature, or maturely-formed child,
a younger age should be set as the limit.
QUESTION: Does a married woman have to cover her
hair at the pool, both in and out of the water?
ANSWER:
I have always understood that covered hair is the acceptable norm for
married women at pools and is definitely the correct and proper thing to
do. There are deviations from the gidrei tznius at the swimming pool, as is
understood, but hair covering is not one of them.
QUESTION: Does a married woman have to cover her
hair at the pool in order to recite a brocha?
ANSWER:
The previous item covers this question. L’daati, even those who are lax with
regard to the aforesaid matter should not be meikil when making a brocha.
QUESTION: Is one permitted to recite a brocha at
the pool even though the other women are not properly dressed?
ANSWER:
In such a situation, one should turn aside and position herself so that her
field of vision will encompass only properly-attired individuals.
QUESTION: Is one permitted to read a chumash or a
hashkafa sefer at the pool?
ANSWER:
One can definitely read a sefer at the pool. Men should (at the very least)
cover their heads while doing so. Women should put on a robe. For reading
Jewish books (including hashkafa-oriented novels), less is required.
QUESTION: Is a woman permitted to sing in the
bungalow if someone who cannot see her would still be able to hear her
outside?
ANSWER:
A woman may sing in her bungalow at the normal range of volume and male
passers-by should keep their distance. Where this is not practical, she
should lower her voice or refrain from singing until they leave the area.
Overcoming Summer Time Nisyonos
QUESTION: Can one take his children to Hershey
Park and similar places while on vacation?
ANSWER:
There is another question that is related to the above. How can you work in
Manhattan in the summer? Rabbosai, I would like to tell you that we
are subjected to very big nisyonos. It is not comparable to a person
who is occasionally subjected to things that one’s eyes shouldn’t see. It
is more than that. It is an incessant bombardment from all sides and at all
times, especially in Manhattan, where all the pritzim come together
to display their immorality in the most provocative manner. For a person
who has to pass through the streets in order to get to his work place, this
constitutes a major challenge that would seemingly require him to keep his
eyes focused towards the ground with the exception of not bumping into
another person or crossing the street without getting struck by the
traffic. It might seem that by my humor I am declaring that this is too
much to ask of a person. It is not too much to ask. A person should keep
his eyes down and avoid looking directly at those whose aim is to stimulate
one’s passions in order to encourage them to purchase a certain brand of
cigarettes or liquor, or a car or even a screwdriver for that matter,
associating their product with something that a person has an attraction to
because of his yetzer hora. A person should definitely keep his eyes
away and it is not easy. The designers of these advertisements do it in a
very expert way, with the knowledge that their provocative appeals will be
very difficult to ignore. That is just the reason why we must thwart their
enticements they swamp us with and try to float in front of our eyes. One
has to avoid these influences unless it is absolutely impossible to avoid
them. In such cases, one should avoid looking directly at these enticements.
While it is true that one may look ridiculous in the eyes of others, it is
worth it, gaining many precious zechusim. We must struggle to clear
things away from our eyes that we shouldn’t be seeing. It is best that if
one sees something and one wonders whether or not such a sight is mutar
or assur, one should refrain from taking a second glance. Better
to remain ignorant. You won’t regret it.
=================================
7 Tammuz
NINETEEN WEEKS:
As we especially dedicate ourselves to the eighth Bracha of Shemone Esrei
this week, we provide the following words of instruction from the great
Praying with Passion Series (in order to go through this entire
outstanding series on Tefillah, please visit
http://prayingwithfire.org/archives.html):
“Why is this blessing the only one in Shemoneh Esrei in which we declare
Ki
Sehelaseinu Attah,
You are our praise? The reason is to counteract the belief that doctors have
the power to heal us. We clearly and emphatically state:
Ki
Sehilaseinu Attah, You are our praise, to
confirm that a doctor is only Hashem’s messenger. We can also impress upon
our hearts the reality that Hashem is the only true source of healing by
following the Mishna Berurah’s (Siman 230:6) dictate to recite a
prayer before taking medication or seeing a doctor. The patient should say,
“May it be Your Will, Hashem, my G-d, that this undertaking should be a cure
for me, for You are a Free Healer”. Afterwards he should say “You are
Blessed, Healer of the sick”. In doing so, we “connect the dots” between the
healer in Heaven and His tools in this world. We can grasp the assistance
that comes our way, and still perceive our healing as the Divine gift it is.
In that case, it would seem that any doctor would do. However, in Shomer
Emunim (Cited in Ma’amar HaBitachon V’Hischazkus, Chapter 5),
a letter sent to a seriously ill patient offers this advice: “If your
intention is to seek help from a doctor, make sure you search for the best
one available... This is because the best doctor has much heavenly
assistance, which is the cause of his success.”
---------------------------------------------------
WE ARE NOW WITHIN THREE MONTHS…:
As we begin more intense hirhurei Teshuvah in the three month period prior
to Rosh Hashana, we provide the following
background to Teshuvah, digested from thoughts of HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon,
Shlita (Mattisyahu Chaim Ben Etel L’Refuah Sheleimah), on the Sefer
Sha’arei Teshuvah, as presented in the Sefer Matnas Chelko
(based on his Va’adim), written by Rabbi Yechiel Bieberfeld, Shlita. By way
of introduction, we point out that HaRav Mattisyahu teaches that the details
of Teshuvah have already been provided to us by our Nevi’im. The Sefer
Sha’arei Teshuvah itself, HaRav Mattisyahu teaches, is ‘Divrei
Nevi’us’--because it explains the words of the Nevi’im, often mentioning
several Pesukim in each paragraph:
A. The Mitzvah of Teshuvah is a special gift given by Hashem to His
creations, and accordingly when one does Teshuvah he should be in a state
of Simcha. Teshuvah is not an Ohl Kasheh (a difficult
burden)--but quite to the contrary is an extra-ordinary gift from Hashem
afforded to us so that a person can still reach his full potential in spite
of past sins. People are mistaken when they think that the approach to
Teshuvah is one of sullenness--after all, do we not recite a Shehechiyanu on
the night of Yom Kippur in celebration of the outstanding ability we have to
return to Hashem! True, there are aspects of Teshuvah such as Charata--feeling
bad over what one has done, and Yagon--truly appreciating the depth
of one’s aveirah--but nevertheless, one’s Simcha Gedolah in returning to the
will of his Maker should never be attenuated. If one is in the process of
healing, he may have to do strenuous exercises to get there--but still does
them with the realization that they will lead to a sweet and much sought
after outcome!
B. The real time to do Teshuvah is immediately after one
recognizes that he has done something wrong. Any delay is a delay in the
Zeman HaEmes--the true time to accomplish one’s Teshuvah. The
Sefer Michtav MeiEliyahu (I: p. 240) brings from Radvaz that one
violates the Mitzvas Asei of Es Hashem Elokecha Tirah if he does an
aveirah and does not immediately attend to doing Teshuvah. On the other
hand, one who does Teshuvah promptly--even if it is out of fear of
sin--fulfills the Mitzvah of Es Hashem Elokecha Tirah(!).
C. If a person repeats an aveirah, Chazal teach that it is
Na’aseis Lo K’heter--he views the aveirah as if it is really something
permissible. If he indeed views it as something permissible--then how can
he do Teshuvah--for one cannot do Teshuvah on a permissible act?! The only
eitzah, HaRav Mattisyahu teaches, is that one who finds himself prone
to a particular aveirah must first view it as ‘Ois Heter--no longer
permissible’, in order for him to do Teshuvah. For instance, one
cannot say: ‘I will do Teshuvah--I will not eat chazir today’.
Rather, one must recognize that chazir is always treif and put
himself in the mindset to always stay away from it. The same
would be true, for instance, for one who has found himself speaking or
listening to Lashon Hara on more than one occasion. It is not the
acceptance of a temporary respite or provisional inaction that effects
Teshuvah--it is a clear and dedicated mindset on a going forward basis that
elevates one’s body and purifies one’s soul--for now, and for eternity!
---------------------------------------------------
FROM THE SEFER SHAILOS U’TESHUVOS YAD MOSHE:
The Sefer Shailos U’Teshuvos
Yad Moshe contains the questions asked by Rabbi Yaakov Dardac to HaRav
Moshe Feinstein, Z’tl. The questions were presented both in personal
meetings, and in letters. Set forth below is a sampling of the questions
and answers presented. Once again,
one should consult with his Rav or Posek as to any Shailah he may have for a
final p’sak.
1.
Q:
If one came late to Shul, and skipped some of Pesukei DeZimra, can he recite
the Pesukei DeZimra that he missed during Chazaras HaShatz, if he is worried
that later he will not remember to recite the Pesukei DeZimra that he
skipped?
A:
It is better to listen to Chazaras HaShatz than to recite the Pesukei
DeZimra that was skipped. Hakhel Note: It is, of course, always
best to simply come on time--or early!
2.
Q:
How should a Shaliach Tzibur recite the words in Kedusha of ‘Kadosh,
Kadosh, Kadosh’ and ‘Boruch Kevod Hashem Mim’komo?
A:
He should recite them loud and clear enough for the people not yet finished
Shemone Esrei to hear--as they will be Yotzei Kedusha by listening to his
Kedusha, based upon the principle of Shome’ah K’oneh. If necessary,
he should delay his recitation of these words so that his recitation can be
heard.
3.
Q:
If a guest comes into Shul, and the Gabbai does not know whether he is
Shomer Shabbos--can he be given an Aliyah without asking him whether he is
Shomer Shabbos?
A:
Yes, one does not have to ask--and, in fact, if the person says he is a
Kohen or Levi and there are no other Kohanim in Shul, one is obligated to
give him an Aliyah. However, if, r’l, it is known that he is not
Shomer Shabbos he should not be called to the Torah even if he is a Kohen or
Levi.
4.
Q:
Should a Ba’al Kriah look carefully for mistakes in the Sefer while leining?
A:
The Ba’al Kriah should read regularly without focusing on finding mistakes.
He should not, however, intentionally gloss over matters and must act with
sechel.
5.
Q:
Because traveling by air is so common today, should one still recite Birkas
HaGomel after a flight?
A:
Yes, one should--for Chazal instituted Birkas HaGomel to be recited when one
had been in a circumstance in which under ordinary circumstances he cannot
live--in the desert, in the water, and certainly in the air! Hakhel Note:
At this point, Rabbi Mordechai Tendler, Shlita, adds that HaRav Moshe
traveled to Montreal to his grandson’s Chasunah by plane--and recited Birkas
HaGomel upon his return to New York, as he considered the round trip as if
it was one flight.
6.
Q:
The Igros Moshe (Orach Chaim 2:17) rules that a Siddur that was
printed involving Chilul Shabbos is Ma’us L’Dvar Mitzvah and
should not be used. Does one have the duty to investigate if the printer of
his Siddur/Sefer is Shomer Shabbos?
A:
No, there is no obligation, as it is not common for a printer to be open on
Shabbos--even if the owner is Mechalel Shabbos. Moreover, even if the
printer is open on Shabbos, perhaps the Siddur being used was not printed on
Shabbos and we can apply the rule of Kol D’Parish Mei’Rubo Parish--that
the Siddur was printed as the majority of Siddurim were--on a weekday.
7.
Q:
Does one recite a bracha of Tevilas Keilim on aluminum pots--as after all
‘aluminum’ is not mentioned in the Pasuk?
A:
Yes, one makes a bracha of Tevilas Keilim on all metals--as they should be
no worse than glass, on which a bracha is recited.
8.
Q:
If one is unsure whether the factory that produced utensils is owned by
Jews--should he recite the bracha of Tevilas Keilim?
A:
One can assume that any utensils
made in Japan, China or Europe should be toveled with a bracha, because most
factories are owned by non-Jews. If one is unsure about a utensil (for
instance, made in America) he should try and find out--but if he cannot, he
should tovel it without a bracha [or, tovel it at the same time with another
utensil that definitely requires a bracha and have it in mind as well].
9.
Q:
When one borrows money from a bank [or credit card company], and then lends
it to someone else, can one pass along the interest as a ‘pass along
charge’--or does one need a Heter Iska?
A:
One cannot charge the borrower even the ribis that he is being
charged--and accordingly must prepare a Heter Iska.
10.
Q:
Must one leave his Mezuzos for the next resident (tenant or new owner who is
Jewish), even if he knows that the next resident will promptly take them off
in order to paint or do construction?
A:
Yes, one must leave them up, but prior to leaving he may take off the
expensive Mezuzos that he was using in his home and replace them with less
expensive Mezuzos--provided that he immediately puts up the expensive
Mezuzos in his new residence. Of course, it is best to discuss and resolve
the situation with the new tenant or owner directly--as a new resident may
not want the Mezuzos, or may want to pay for the more expensive Mezuzas.
=================================
6 Tammuz
SUMMERTIME SHEMIRA:
The Chofetz Chaim brings the
Midrash that when Yaakov Avinu davened to Hashem as he was running away from
Eisav (Bereishis 28:20): “U’Shemarani BaDerech Hazeh--and you guard
me on the road that I am taking”--that it refers to Hashem saving him from
Lashon Hara along the way. The Chofetz Chaim adds that it is pashut
that when a person travels he needs an extra level of shemira--and that the
way to attain that extra level of shemira is to have Hashem accompany the
person. When Lashon Hara is spoken, the Shechina leaves us--and we are in
greater sakana. It is for this reason that Yaakov Avinu davened that he be
saved from the cheit of Lashon Hara--so that he be protected in the
difficult situation that he faced. We may apply Yaakov Avinu’s teaching to
our increased summer travel --so that the Shechina remains with us to give
us that extra level of protection that we may very well need!
----------------------------------------------------------
WHAT’S THE ANSWER?
A non-observant woman visits a local religious neighborhood to go shopping
and asked the following question: “Why can I not go around in my uncovered
hair? These wigs are so gorgeous I am sure they must be much more beautiful
than the woman’s natural hair!” This is a question which we must be prepared
to answer to our non-religious colleagues. If you are unsure of how to
answer, please consult with your Rav. For a thorough explanation of the
concept of “sheitel,” see Oz V’hadar Levusha pages 241-254. This is
an English sefer written by Rabbi Falk of England and published by Feldheim
Publishers.
----------------------------------------------------------
DAILY KIDDUSH HASHEM:
Each one of us is given the opportunity to sanctify our
existence by being M’Kadesh Shem Shomayim in our daily life at home,
on the street, while shopping and while at work. We recently heard of one
baal habayis who kept his own private “Kiddush Shem Shomayim Log”. Men have
two additional, special opportunities to be M’Kadesh Hashem every
day. The Mishna Berurah (Orach Chaim 125:4) writes “One must apply his mind
ardently when he says Kedusha to sanctify
Hashem … through the merit of this, Hashem will rest His Holiness upon him
from Above. (During Kedushah,) one should have in mind to fulfill what is
stated ‘…And I will be sanctified among the Children of Israel (“V’nikdashti
b’soch B’nei Yisrael”).’ The Arizal would urge this strongly.”
Translation courtesy of the Feldheim edition, Volume1(D), page 345. We urge
those who can, to read the electrifying original Hebrew text of the Mishna
Berurah relating to Kedusha (125: 4,5).
----------------------------------------------------------
PISKEI HARAV CHAIM KANIEVSKY, SHLITA, ON HILCHOS TEFILLAH:
We
provide several pesakim from the Sefer Da’as Noteh (Volume 1), of
HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, as published by his son Rav Yitzchok Shaul
Kanievsky, Shlita. Every person should consult with his own Rav or Posek as
to the application of these Halachos on a personal basis:
1. The Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 90, seif katan 8)
writes that if one finds that his Kavannah is faltering, he should raise his
eyes to Shomayim (through the windows in Shul or at home) to arouse one’s
Kavannah. May one also study an Adam Gadol (such as a Rav) while he is
Davening, in order to arouse one’s Kavannah. A. This appears to be
appropriate.
2. What is the difference between the word ‘Elokeinu’ and ‘Elokim’?
A: The Kavannah one should have when reciting ‘Elokim’ is explicitly stated
in (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim Chapter 5). When reciting ‘Elokeinu’ one
should additionally have in mind that that we have accepted His
kingship (Malchus) over us. Similarly, when one recites “Elokai’ he should
have in mind that he is accepting Hashem’s Malchus over himself. Reciting
“Hashem Elokeinu” in the first Pasuk of Kriyas Shema is Kabbalas Ohl Malchus
Shomayim. When we recite the words “Elokai Avraham, Elokai Yitzchak” (such
as in the first Bracha of Shemone Esrei) we likewise should have in mind
that they accepted Hashem’s Malchus as well
3. Can one make a personal request two times in Shemone Esrei--for
instance once in Shomea Tefillah and once in Elokai Netzor? A: It is not
proper to do so, for one would not ask something of the King, and then go
back and ask it again later in the same audience, however, within one
bakasha, one can engage in continuous entreaty, just as Eliyahu HaNavi
exclaimed “Aneini Hashem Aneini”.
4. When reciting the word ‘Modim’ in Shemone Esrei what Kavannah should
he have? A: The word ‘Modim’ indicates HaKaras Hatov, and this is the
Kavannah one should have.
5.
When one recites Tehillim should he have in mind as if he is ,making
personal requests, or that these are the words of Dovid HaMelech? If a
Tzibur is reciting Tehillim, is it better to recite with them Pasuk by Pasuk,
or to recite another Pasuk on your own? A: He should have both his
personal; requests, and that these are the words of the Mechabrei Tehillim
in mind. There is a special Ma’aleh when a Tzibur recites a Pasuk
together.
----------------------------------------------------------
IMPORTANT NOTES FROM LAST WEEK’S PIRKEI AVOS:
A.
Ben Azai (Avos 4:2) instructs: “Hevei Ratz LeMitzvah Kallah--one
should run after an easy-to-perform or ‘minor’ Mitzvah--and not only after a
difficult or ‘major’ Mitzvah.” The Rambam in his Peirush HaMishnayos
(ibid.) provides an enlightening insight here. He shows how Moshe Rabbeinu
selected the three Arei Miklat on the other side of the Yarden, even
though they could not be used until the three Arei Miklat in Eretz
Yisrael were actually designated as well. Why, then, did Moshe Rabbeinu the
‘Shalem Shebesheleimim--the greatest and most complete of
men’--bother to do a Mitzvah which was incomplete and could not even be
utilized. This is to teach us, the Rambam explains, that if Moshe Rabbeinu
yearned to do a ‘half a Mitzvah’, then all the more so should we, and we
should not be put off by our inability to do the Mitzvah in its entirety,
and certainly not as completely or as beautifully as others. It is the
willingness, the effort, the desire, and the drive of one to attach himself
to Hashem and His Mitzvos to which one must aspire!
B.
The Sefer Tomer Devorah (Chapter 1, Middah 2), teaches that just
as when a person performs a Mitzvah he creates a Malach who acts as a
defender, so too, when a person transgresses, a destructive creature is
r’l created. This is based squarely on the Mishna (Avos 4:13), which
states: “Ha’over Aveirah Achas Koneh Lo Kateigor Echad--he who
commits a single transgression acquires against himself a single accuser.”
The Tomer Devorah, however, frighteningly adds that this kateigor
stands before Hashem and proclaims: “Ploni Asa’ani--so and so made
me!” What a powerful lesson this is to us--every day, throughout the day we
are literally creators! Perhaps we can visualize what we are creating as we
do so--hopefully with the result that we will smile and rejoice many, many
times during the day!
=================================
5 Tammuz
SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
We continue our Summer Improvement Program, with simple suggestions, on a
weekly basis, in each of the areas of Bein Adam LaMakom, Bein Adam
L’Chaveiro, and Bein Adam L’Atzmo. Of course, these are only
suggestions--but every person has the opportunity to join with others who
will be attempting the same successes. In the alternative, one can chart his
own improvement course on a weekly basis as well.
WEEK 2--PARASHAS CHUKAS
Bli neder, at least one time a day during this week, consciously do
the following:
Bein Adam LaMakom:
HaRav Shimon Schwab, Z’tl, writes that when one recites a bracha, he can
consciously perform four Mitzvos: Ahavas Hashem, Yiras Hashem,
U’Le’avdo Bechol Levavchem and U’Ledavka Vo. Before reciting a
Birkas HaNehenin have in mind these four Mitzvos!
Bein Adam L’Chaveiro:
Look at another person whom you are familiar with, and think about how much
behind him there is that you really do not know--his Mitzvos, his life’s
experiences, and the reasons he may react to situations and circumstances in
ways that are different from you. Then, judge him favorably in something
particular that occurred (or keep it in mind for the future).
Bein Adam L’Atzmo:
Before reciting Shema at night, make sure your last activity of the day is
one of Ruchniyus--either the study of Torah (even for only a short
while), an act of Chesed, or the performance of a Mitzvah.
----------------------------------------------------------
NINETEEN WEEKS!
We are
now in the eighth of the nineteen week period prior to Rosh Hashana.
In past years, we have proceeded weekly, Bracha by Bracha, through Shemone
Esrei with a special emphasis on Kavannah on that week’s Bracha. This
week’s Bracha is… REFUAH!
Rabbi Eliyahu Roman, Shlita, pointed out to us in the past that we
refer to Hashem in eight different ways in the bracha--Hashem,
Sehilaseynu, Atta, Kel, Melech, Rofeh, Ne’eman and Rachaman.
Certainly NO COINCIDENCE, but also highlighting for us how important it is
for us to have Kavannah in this bracha--we are seeking Refuos for ourselves
and others, and we have the opportunity to implore Hashem, pleading with Him
based on various aspects of His attributes! HaRav Yonasan Eibeschutz, Z’tl,
in the Sefer Ya’aros Devash adds the following three pointers when
reciting the bracha:
A.
One must have in mind all Cholei Yisrael, joining in their pain with
them--for we are all one nefesh and guf--and if a part of us
hurts, we hurt.
B. In
fact, one should daven for the rishei Yisrael who are sick as
well--so that he does not die a rasha, but instead is healed so that
he can have the opportunity to do Teshuva. Not only will this help him, but
it will make the one guf of K’lal Yisrael move towards completeness, and
will also remove rischa, a time of anger and din, upon the world
engendered by the passing of a rasha in that state.
C. One
should especially daven for Talmidei Chachomim who are weakened and suffer
through their studies and support of K’lal Yisrael.
D. The
Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 115: seif katan 1) brings from
the Sefer Seder HaYom that the Ikar Kavannah in Refa’einu is our
pleading with Hashem that He heal us so that we will be healthy and strong
to learn Torah and perform all of the Mitzvos--enabling us to fulfill our
role--and our potential--in this world! What can be more important-more
crucial?! Let us truly focus this week!
Hakhel Note:
In addition to the above note,
we
provide by the following link additional notes to the Nineteen Brachos for
the years 5771 and 5772
http://www.hakhel.info/TefillahArchive.html
May we highly recommend the Nineteen Week Program again this year--either
based upon your own study (such as by utilizing the Praying with Passion
Series (available free by email by contacting us), the magnificent Rav
Schwab on Prayer, the Tefillah Tapes of Rabbi Berel Wein, Shlita, or
other wonderful resources), or by utilizing the link provided on a daily
basis throughout the week.
-------------------------------------------------
REMINDER!
In English, the first two letters of Shemiras HaLashon spell SH!... In
Hebrew, the first two letters spell SHA! Isn’t that enough for us to get the
message?!
Hakhel Note: HaRav Yecheskel Levenstein, Z’tl, points out that Emunah needs
chizuk every day, and if one is not mechazeik himself in it, then his
faith is weakened. We may suggest that this is true because of the great
need for Emunah in one’s spiritual life--and the consequent Yetzer Hara
attack against it. In the Bein Adam L’Chaveiro realm, Shemiras HaLashon may
be of similar high level of importance. It is certainly essential for us to
be mechazeik ourselves in this every day as well. Even after reading the
Sefer Chofetz Chaim or Sefer Shemiras HaLashon, we need to resolve not to
fall prey to the Yetzer Hara’s thrusts and guile!
-------------------------------------------------------
ALLOWING HAKARAS HATOV TO PENETRATE:
The following story is excerpted from the The Maggid at the Podium,
by Rabbi Paysach J. Krohn, Shlita (Artscroll/Mesorah). The story and its
lesson is brought in Let There Be Rain by Rabbi Shimon Finkelman,
Shlita, and Rabbi Zechariah Wallerstein, Shlita (Artsroll/Mesorah):
“An owner of a major construction firm charged one of his employees with the
task of submitting a bid to a city council for a major project. The bid was
the price the company would charge to undertake and complete the project.
This company submitted a bid that was two million dollars less than
that of any other company, and was hired by the city.
The estimator was troubled by the fact that his bid was so much lower than
the others…and then he realized why. He had submitted a price for an
incomplete project. The bid could not be rescinded. He had cost the company
a two million dollar loss.
He was sure that his boss would be furious, and rightfully so. The next day,
he tearfully told the boss what he had done, and submitted his resignation.
But the boss would not accept it. He said, “Yes, you made a serious error,
but you’ve been a great worker since you joined our company, and I am
positive that you will never again make such a mistake. So I want you to
stay on.”
If we used this approach in our personal relationships, especially within
the home, our lives would be tranquil and free of strife.
Let’s keep Hakaras HaTov in our subconscious so that we will focus on the
good in others and recognize the good in our lives.”
=================================
2 Tammuz
IT’S NOT TOO LATE!
THE FIRST DAY OF TAMMUZ!:
As B’EH we will soon begin the period of Tammuz/Av/Elul, we remind our
readers of a noble and important project. By the following link
http://tinyurl.com/pyhvfxp we provide a
Three-Month Calendar, providing a short daily dose
of the classic Mussar Sefer, Sefer Sha’arei Teshuva by the Rabbeinu
Yonah. With these short daily installments over a three month period--one
will actually conclude the Sefer in graduated steps and in time for Rosh
Hashanah! Your undertaking this Program indicates a real degree of
sincerity in your Teshuva process this year. Please spread the
word…and the link!
Hakhel Note: This Program is for women as well--and there are fine
English translations of the Sha’arei Teshuva readily available in
Seforim stores.
------------------------------------------------------------
FROM A READER:
“Today, the 2nd of Tammuz, marks exactly 36 years since I made the move to a
Torah way of life. The difference between living the life of a secular Jew
and that of a Torah Jew is too great to describe and almost impossible to
put into words, so I won’t even try. I’m indebted to all the gedolim and
tzaddikim around me who have taught me, by the spoken word and by example,
what Torah is all about and what it means to be a truly frum Yid. I hope
that I’m zoche to have you wonderful people around me for many, many years
to come.”
Hakhel Note: Those who were born into a Torah home certainly have no less
reason to thank Hashem for this unparalleled gift. But why wait for a
yearly anniversary or one’s birthday--it is truly a daily celebration--Modim
Anachnu Lach...!
------------------------------------------------------------
WE
CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
A. This
week’s Parasha teaches us the horrific effects of machlokes--of
arguments and battles which are not L’Shem Shamayim. This Shabbos,
it would seem especially appropriate to conduct oneself with calmness and
Nachas Ruach, avoiding disagreements, disputes, or conflicts of any
kind, and emphasizing compliments, peace, harmony and friendship with all
whom you encounter--especially your own family and friends!
B. We
continue our annual review of Summer Shabbos Shailos, with the Teshuvos of
Rabbi Yisroel Belsky, Z’tl, to us:
PART II
CHILDREN ON SHABBOS
QUESTION: May children play with toys that make noise on Shabbos?
ANSWER:
Many poskim are of the opinion that any child above the age of four or five
should be taught not to play with toys that make noise on Shabbos. Those
children under this age are permitted to play with such noise-making toys
(e.g., talking dolls, talking games, etc.). However, one should not hand it
directly to the child. If the child is crying, one is permitted to give the
toy to him directly. However, care should be taken that when one gives it to
the child, one should not cause the toy to make noise.
QUESTION: Is a child permitted to play in a sandbox on Shabbos?
ANSWER:
Normally, it is prohibited to play with sand on Shabbos, as it is muktzah.
However, sand that is in a sandbox is not deemed muktzah because it has been
designated for this type of play. Therefore, a child may play in a sandbox
on Shabbos. However, water should not be used in the sand due to the issur
of Losh.
QUESTION: Is a child permitted to play with Erector sets, Legos and other
construction-type toys and games?
ANSWER:
Any toy that needs to be screwed together is prohibited because of the issur
of Boneh. Therefore, one may not play with a construction set on Shabbos. On
the other hand, because one merely sticks together the pieces, one is
permitted to play with Legos, Tinkertoys and the like on Shabbos.
QUESTION: Is a child permitted to swing on a swing attached to a tree on
Shabbos? or to go to sleep in a hammock on Shabbos?
ANSWER:
One is permitted to use a swing on Shabbos which is suspended from a swing
frame. A swing that is suspended from a tree, however, poses a problem. One
may use such a swing only if: A) the swing is attached indirectly to the
tree, e.g. it is suspended from hooks that are attached to the tree, B) the
tree is sturdy enough that it will not shake when the swing is being used,
and C) the swing must be attached to the hooks before Shabbos. In contrast,
a swing that is attached to a door post may be attached and detached on
Shabbos and it is not considered Boneh.
In some bungalow colonies, a tire is attached to a tree. A person may not
swing from it on Shabbos unless it is attached as described above.
QUESTION: Is a child under Bar or Bas Mitzvah permitted to ride a bike, Big
Wheel or roller skates/blades in an area containing an Eruv?
ANSWER:
Young children may ride on bicycles, tricycles, Big Wheels and the like,
however, older children should be discouraged from doing so on Shabbos.
QUESTION: Are children under Bar or Bas Mitzvah permitted to play ball on
Shabbos in an area containing an Eruv? What about Ping
Pong?
ANSWER:
Young children are permitted to play ball on Shabbos, but, they must be
careful not to play near the road or near the end of the Eruv where it is
possible that the ball may roll outside the Eruv. Ping Pong is permitted on
Shabbos.
QUESTION: If a ball gets stuck in the tree on Shabbos, may one knock it out
of the tree with a broom or other non-muktzeh object?
ANSWER:
In a situation where the ball gets stuck in a tree or bushes higher than
three tefachim (approximately 11½ inches) from the ground, one is forbidden
to poke a stick into the tree or bushes, or to climb onto them or shake
them.
QUESTION: Is it permissible for me to spread a fly net over the hood of the
baby carriage or play pen because of the prohibition of forming an Ohel on
Shabbos?
ANSWER:
On Shabbos one is forbidden to cover a crib, playpen or carriage with a
mosquito net. However, if the net was placed on the crib, playpen or
carriage before Shabbos and the net was extended at least a tefach
(approximately 3 ¾ inches) over the crib, playpen or carriage, one may
extend it on Shabbos. If the hood of the carriage was extended a tefach as
stated above, then one may place a mosquito net over the carriage on Shabbos
since it is considered as an extension to the canopy hood which is already
in place. However, if the hood was not opened a tefach before Shabbos then
one may not place a mosquito net on it on Shabbos. If the hood was not
opened before Shabbos or the mosquito net was not placed on the crib or
playpen before Shabbos then one should get two people to hold the net open
and then one should push the carriage, crib or playpen under it, for in such
a case, one does not transgress the issur of erecting an Ohel.
QUESTION: If one forgot to put on the hood of the baby carriage before
Shabbos , may one put it on Shabbos if it locks into place?
ANSWER:
On Shabbos one is forbidden to open a canopy. Therefore, one cannot attach a
hood of a carriage on Shabbos to protect the child. If the hood was attached
to the carriage before Shabbos, some poskim are of the opinion that the hood
may be opened. Other poskim disagree and permit the hood to be opened only
if it was already opened approx. 3.75 inches and a person is only extending
it further. The same applies in regard to folding the hood back up.
QUESTION: May one open a playpen or portable crib on Shabbos?
ANSWER:
One is permitted to open a playpen, crib or carriage on Shabbos as long as
one does not need to tighten any screws or bolts to hold it open. However,
one may not open a portable crib that needs to be interlocked on Shabbos. It
is permitted on Shabbos to open a portable crib that does not interlock.
Regarding the models of portable crib which have a removable bottom, one
should hold the bottom of the crib in the air and get someone else to push
the crib under it, because of the problem of Ohel.
QUESTION: May one bathe his/her child who got dirty on Shabbos?
ANSWER:
One is permitted to wash or bathe a child who became dirty, in warm water
that was heated before Shabbos. However, a washcloth may not be used.
QUESTION: A child refuses to walk on his own. Can one carry the child if
there is no Eruv?
ANSWER:
One is forbidden to carry, drag or swing by both hands a child outside of an
Eruv, whether or not the child can walk by himself. If a child refuses to
continue to walk, one should try to bribe the child by offering some type of
prize to encourage him to continue. If this will not help, one should try to
get a non-Jew to carry the child. If this, too, is not possible, then one
may carry the child less than four amos (approximately seven feet) at a time
until one reaches home. When one gets home, one should try to get the child
to enter the Eruv or house by himself.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE
RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING KEEN THOUGHT FROM A READER, AS EXCERPTED FROM HARAV
AVIGDOR MILLER’S SEFER JOURNEY INTO GREATNESS:
“Vayichar
LeMoshe Me’od--and Moshe was very wroth and he said to Hashem: Do not
turn to their offering” (Bamidbar16:15).
Rabbi
Miller, Z’tl, writes:
“This
seems to be an entirely unnecessary request. Why would Hashem honor the
offering of those that rebelled against Moshe the servant of Hashem? But we
must note that the usual ‘Vayiktsof-And he was angry’ (Shemos 16:20,
Vayikra 10:16, Bamidbar 31:14) is not used. Because ‘Vayiktsof’
expresses a superficial anger which Moshe displayed externally. However, ‘Vayichar’
expresses genuine distress because these opponents were men of worth and
good deeds. Accordingly, Moshe actually feared lest Hashem might respect
their offering.
We see
that Korach and his party were sterling personalities. And here we learn an
invaluable lesson. Not as generally thought by most men, that if they would
be convinced of the truth by open miracles, they would surely be perfectly
righteous men. But here we see that even more than the test of belief in
Hashem and in His management of men’s lives, there is still a more difficult
test of overcoming one’s own character traits such as jealousy and the
desire for glory.
Korach
saw all the miracles. He stood on the shore of the Sea as it was split and
sang together with the entire Nation. At Har Sinai he heard the Voice of
Hashem and had shouted ‘We shall do and we shall listen!’ together with all
of K’lal Yisrael.
Belief
was no obstacle.
“But
the test of Kinah and the desire for Kavod, this was
overpowering.”
Hakhel Note:
These two related Middos--Kinah and Kavod seeking--comprise
some of the core character traits we are tested on in this world. The
Torah, by presenting them in such a stark and powerful way in the Parasha,
is reminding us to work on them now. In the coming week, we should try to
work on these two allied flaws of character. The Torah is presenting them
to us--not only to read and be shocked by--but in order to improve ourselves
in our personal lives in ways we are truly capable of. Of course you
believe in Hashem--but this belief must be evidenced and enhanced by how you
view the wealth and talents of others--and of your own!
------------------------------------------------------------
SAY NO TO…!
This
week’s Parasha provides a permanent lesson on the shock and after-shock of
machlokes--to a family, to a tzibbur, to K’lal Yisrael...and to all future
generations. The following notes from this week’s Parasha on machlokes, are
excerpted from Love Your Neighbor, by Rabbi Zelig Pliskin, Shlita:
A. It
is a very important Mitzvah to stop a feud. Do not be discouraged even if
you tried to do so and your efforts have been fruitless. There is always
the possibility that your next attempt will be successful. (Sefer
Shemiras Halashon 1:15)
B. If
two people quarreled and afterward made peace, neither should later say to
the other: “The reason I behaved as I did is because you did this and this
to me.” Even if the person saying this does not intend to resume the
quarrel, such a remark is apt to rekindle the dispute, since the other
person will probably retort, “No, it -was your fault.” (Orchos Tzadikim,
Chapter 21)
C. If
someone insults a man or fails to honor him properly, the man should not
relate this to his wife when he comes home (Avos D’Rebbe Noson 7:3).
Relating such an incident would be Rechilus and will most likely cause a
dispute. (Chofetz Chaim)
D. A
person should train his children at a very young age to avoid quarrels.
Young children have a tendency to grow angry and fight over trivial matters,
and if a parent will not correct this fault, it can easily become ingrained.
(Ma’aneh Rach, pp. 69-70)
E. If
two members of a family have become estranged by insults or other
grievances, their reconciliation is often very difficult to achieve. Mishlei
( 18:19 ) compares it to “entry into a fortified city,” and the discord
between them is likened to the bolts of a castle, which are hard to move.
(From the Wisdom of Mishlei, p. 190). In fact, very often, disputes
begin over matters that are entirely irrelevant and insignificant. If you
find yourself arguing with someone, ask yourself (and the other person), “Does
it really make a difference?” Hakhel Note: Even if it does make a
difference--does it make that much of a difference?
Additional Note: We received the following thought from a reader: “In
Parashas Korach, we see how horrible the punishment can be for spreading
Machlokes in K’lal Yisrael. We know that Hashem’s measure of reward is at
least 500 times as great as His measure of punishment. Imagine the reward
of those who spread shalom and achdus among their brothers. If those
involved in dispute sink so, so low into the abyss--think about how high the
peace-lovers and peace-makers soar in Hashem’s Heaven!”
------------------------------------------------------------
WE PRESENT SEVERAL QUESTIONS RELATING TO THE PARASHA, AND WELCOME YOUR
THOUGHTS AND RESPONSES:
A. Korach is not the first person called by this name in the Torah. See
Bereishis 36:5 and Rashi there. Based upon this nefarious predecessor to
the name, why/how could Yitzhar have given this name to his own son?
B. The Torah teaches us that “U’Vnei Korach Lo Maisu” (Bamidbar
26:11)--the sons of Korach did not die in the unique earthquake of Korach.
It is interesting to note that this Pasuk--distinguishing them from their
father and his followers is not found in Parashas Korach at all but later in
Parashas Pinchos, and that the actual names of Korach’s sons, Asir, Elkanah
and Aviasaf, are found back in Parashas Va’eira (Shemos 6:24). What is the
Torah teaching us by this?
C. Moshe Rabbeinu composed several of the Kepitelech--Chapters of Tehillim,
and the sons of Korach composed several Chapters, as well. Who composed
more Chapters found in Tehillim, Moshe Rabbeinu or the sons of Korach?
Which Chapters did the sons of Korach compose? What does this teach us
about the power of Teshuva and Tefillah?!
D. Chazal teach us that Korach was extremely wealthy. His followers had
also obviously brought much wealth with them from Mitzrayim. Why was Kol
HaRechush--all of this great wealth--(Bamidbar 16:33) swallowed up in
the earthquake? After all, the wealth didn’t sin--couldn’t it have been
given to Tzaddikim, to the Mishkan, or used as a fund for a very good
purpose?!
E. Towards the end of the Parasha, the Torah introduces us to the 24 Matnos
Kehuna--the 24 different gifts given to the Kohen (Bamidbar 18:8-20), 10 of
which were in the Beis HaMikdash, 4 in Yerushalayim, and the remaining ten
in Eretz Yisrael and some even beyond in chutz la’aretz. Immediately
following the Matnos Kehuna, the Torah teaches us that the Leviim also
receive a gift in consideration for their service in the Beis
Hamikdash--Ma’aser Rishon, or 10% of the crop left over after Terumah has
been given to the Kohen (Bamidbar 18:21-24). However, this appears to be
the Levi’s entire gift--in comparison to the 24 gifts to Kohanim, the Torah
immediately provides us with only one gift to be given to the Leviim. The
disparity appears very stark--both the Kohanim and the Leviim receive gifts
from the people in recognition and in payment for their services in the
Mikdash on behalf of the people, yet the Kohanim’s benefits appear much more
diverse, if not much greater. How can we explain this apparent contrast
between the Kohanim and Leviim?
------------------------------------------------------------
SHEMIRAS HAMIKDASH:
In
this week’s Parasha, we find a series of remarkable Mitzvos relating to
Shemiras HaMikdash--guarding the Bais HaMikdash. To the uninitiated, the
concept of a frail human being watching or guarding the House of Hashem, the
earthly Abode of the Creator of this World, a Building which is actually
mechuvan, parallel, to the Bais HaMikdash Shel Ma’alah, would seem
superfluous and unnecessary. Yet, we find no less than two Mitzvos (a
positive commandment and a negative commandment)--in our Parasha relating to
its absolute necessity. The Sefer HaChinuch explains that watching
or guarding something is a clear indication that the item has value to
you. The vigilance and attention you give to a place or thing attaches
special importance and significance to it. In the case of the Bais
HaMikdash, it is actually Kohanim and Leviim who are given the noble task of
providing the appropriate dignity and stateliness to the Holy Place . They
are obviously unarmed, boasting not even a bow or arrow, but Chazal teach
that if they were caught asleep on their job at night they would be
corporally punished (Mesechta Middos 1:2).
There
are practical and important lessons for us here.
Firstly, we know that our own Shuls are referred to by the Navi as a
Mikdash Me’at--a form, a sample, a replica, of the Bais HaMikdash
itself. It is our job to ensure that this Mikdash Me’at is accorded
the Shemira--the honor, dignity and distinction it deserves. Does it have
to be the janitor who picks up tissues or papers from the floor? Is it only
the fanatical fellow who puts together papers strewn over the tables? Isn’t
it very wrong to yell across the Shul to a friend even when it isn’t so
full--or to telling a joke after davening? Guarding the Palace--being
vigilant to safeguard its sanctity and to display its uniqueness and
holiness--would seem to dictate otherwise. The person caught sleeping on
the job was not given an automatic “second chance,” because a lapse in
sanctity is a void in sanctity. We have a special relationship with Hashem,
and a special place to especially forge that relationship. We should not
allow ourselves to forfeit it to indiscretion, carelessness, and failure to
appreciate and make the most of our opportunities. Could you imagine one of
the Queen of England’s Honor Guard yawning in front of a huge crowd? Even
if it only happened once, where do you think he would be the next day? We
are honoring Royalty of an infinitely greater nature, and we are more
significant and capable than any man with a rifle in his hand.
Secondly, let us consider how we treat our wallets, our jewelry, and our
“special papers” like birth certificates, passports and the like. They are
safely placed away in a specially-considered, or otherwise secure, place.
No one is spilling coffee on them, and no one is leaving them in his car
unattended, or at least carefully locked away. We should consider, in this
vein, how our Shemira is for our spiritually valuable items. How do we
treat our Seforim--are they spotted and stained, are the covers or bindings
ripped or frayed from use--or from abuse? How do we pick up a Siddur or
Chumash, and how and when do we put them away? Do we allow Seforim to be
strewn about or interspersed with secular books or objects? Do we leave our
Tallis and Tefillin in our cars, or overnight in Shul, exposed to any
character or situation? In all of the above situations--let us remember that
a Shomer is responsible for the precious items he is entrusted with--he
wouldn’t have been hired if he wasn’t capable of performing the job!
------------------------------------------------------------
ESSENTIAL LESSONS FROM THIS WEEK’S PEREK:
In this week’s Perek (4:1), the Mishna teaches “Who is a Gibor? One who
quashes his Yetzer Hara.” Rashi to Sanhedrin (111B) provides a great
insight as to the higher form of Gibor one should strive for. Although one
can simply deflect the Yetzer Hara--much like one distracts a baby in order
to get him to stop crying, one can also channel the Yetzer Hara’s seemingly
patented drive and desire to sin into zerizus and hiddur in the performance
of a mitzvah--just as the baby may be led to stop crying not by a petty
distraction but by giving it a challenging, new or more interesting or
learning experience. With this approach, the legs which are running to do
an aveira-- rather than simply stopping in their tracks--instead run to do a
chesed or to get to Shul early; the tongue ready to speak sharp or biting
words instead recall a D’var Torah from the previous week’s Parasha or speak
gentle and calming words; the mind pondering something waste-filled or evil
instead contemplates redting a Shidduch or figuring out how one can best
help a neighbor or friend in need with a thoughtful measure of dignity and
respect. In all of these circumstances, the vanquished Yetzer Hara is not
merely put into prison to rot--but instead is used to build the very fort
and castle of the Mitzvos and Ma’asim Tovim so necessary for one to realize
his potential. It’s great to beat the Yetzer Hara--it’s even greater if you
take his assault and turn his plans into a part of your offensive and
success! If you are already ready to be a Gibor--why not try taking it to
the higher level suggested by Rashi -- not only subverting the sin-- but
converting it into your Neshama’s delight!
Hakhel
Note: Chazal teach us as well in this week’s Perek (4:21) that one hour of
Teshuva and Ma’asim Tovim in this world is “yofeh”--better than all
of Olam Haba. Let us contemplate the awesome nature of this statement. One
hour of good deeds in this world is greater than the goodness of a World to
Come that is so great that our corporal being cannot even fathom or
imagine. The Mishna does not qualify its reference as to an hour of good
deeds by clarifying that it is referring to one hour of Rashi or the
Ramban’s life, or the good deeds of Rebbe Akiva Eiger, the Vilna Gaon or the
Chofetz Chaim. Rather, it clearly refers to any one’s hour and any one’s
good deeds. Here, one is on common ground with the Gedolim of all previous
generations and of his generation--he has the same potential to make the
next hour shine more brilliantly than, using the Tanna’s words, “all of Olam
Haba’. Can we find at least one hour a day which we consciously
choose to make more “yofeh” --better than all of Olam Haba? The
greatness resounds within us --as we hoist up and elevate an Olam Hazeh that
is sinking so low to all the world all around us to a very, very special
place in the Highest of Heavens above. Each and everyone can be--the man of
the hour!
=================================
1 Tammuz
KASHRUS ALERTS! ISSUED BY THE COUNCIL OF ORTHODOX RABBIS OF GREATER DETROIT:
1. 7-ELEVEN SLURPEES:
The
COR strongly recommends that slurpees be bought only at stores that have
store-level Kashrus supervision of their slurpees, to be assured that the
syrup box that feeds the machine is actually Kosher and pareve. The flavor
cards on the machine cannot be relied upon, even if they bear a Kosher
symbol, because stores sometimes use syrups that do not correspond with the
brand or variety posted on the machine. In addition, when changing flavors,
stores generally do not clean the machine in-between, and during the
transition there can be a significant mixture of flavors, one of which may
be non-Kosher or dairy.
If one
is in an area where no supervised stores are available, the COR recommends
that slurpees not be purchased unless the consumer is able to inspect the
label on the box of syrup which feeds the slurpee machine, to verify its
Kosher and pareve (or dairy) status.. [The box of syrup that feeds the
machine is generally located in the back of the store, in an area which is
off limits to non-employees, and cannot be entered without express
permission from the store manager.] A list of Kosher slurpees is available
from the Chicago Rabbinical Council at
http://www.crcweb.org/slurpee_list.php, and also includes a listing of
some non-Kosher and some dairy slurpees.
2. HEINZ new BBQ SAUCES: Heinz has introduced five new
OU certified BBQ sauces. Three of them, Kansas City Style, Memphis Style,
and Texas Style state “OU Fish” and contain anchovies. The amount
of anchovies in these sauces is less than 1/60, and therefore, according to
most Poskim, these sauces may be used with meat. Some Poskim, however, are
stringent. Consult your Rav. [Consumers should be aware that some “OU Fish”
products contain more than 1/60 fish, and according to all opinions
may not be used with meat. Some examples are Lea & Perrins, Great Value,
Market Pantry and ShopRite brands of Worcestershire sauces, which all
state “OU Fish”. Brands of Worcestershire sauces that bear a plain OU
contain less than 1/60 fish.]
---------------------------------------------------------- 
A
QUICK MOVEMENT:
We
were advised that the Sefer Toldos Aharon writes that if one finds
himself suddenly wanting to turn his head in a direction other than the one
he was facing, it will invariably be the Yetzer Hara which is urging the
head’s movement in order for the person to commit an aveirah.
Consequently, if one abruptly or unexpectedly feels that he must turn his
head or look in another direction--he should withhold himself from doing
so--beating the Yetzer Hara at its own game!
----------------------------------------------------------
THE
FIRST OF TAMMUZ:
According to many, the first day of Tammuz is the date of the birth and
petira of Yosef HaTzadik. Chazal teach that Yosef was Mekadesh Shem
Shamayim B’seser--sanctified Hashem’s name in private--by not falling
prey to the wife of Potiphar and withstanding this great test. As a result,
he was zoche to have a letter of Hashem’s name added to his name--and is
known in Tehillim as “Yehosef” as well. Accordingly, it would be extremely
appropriate this Rosh Chodesh to remember Yosef--and memorialize the day--by
performing a Kiddush Shem Shamayim B’seser--by undertaking an act of
Kiddush Hashem that only you know about. We leave it up to you!
----------------------------------------------------------
THOUGHTS ON THE NEW MONTH:
Welcome to a new month, with new potential for incredible growth. As we all
know, if the Meraglim would have come back with the proper report, Tisha
B’Av would have been marked as a day of eternal celebration, rather than a
day which now lives in infamy. In the time of Bayis Sheni, Tisha B’Av was,
in fact, celebrated. As it is referred to as a “Mo’ed”, it will be certainly
celebrated again—may it be this year!
As we
previously noted, the Targum Yonasan on last week’s Parasha explains
that the Meraglim set out on their journey on 29 Sivan—just two days ago.
These very days—i.e., the next 38 days ahead of us until Tisha B’Av are
full of the potential to bring us a happy Tisha B’Av, if we reframe and
recharacterize these days into building rather than destruction; days of
finding the positive instead of the negative; days of compliments and not of
snide or hurtful remarks; days where we show our love towards Eretz Yisrael
and its inhabitants in some unique and special way. We know better. We know
what we have to do. Like the Meraglim, we have a mission. Let’s succeed with
flying colors—it is well within our capabilities, and the benefits and
rewards will far exceed the investment and effort—as we will see when the
Moshiach comes, Bimheira V’Yameinu.
Hakhel
Note: To get us started in the proper framework of appropriate speech, we
once again provide below the following stark excerpts from The Power of
Words, by Rabbi Zelig Pliskin, Shlita:
Ona’as Dvorim:
“So your teeth hurt you, big deal. Stop complaining. You called the dentist
and he gave you an appointment, now be quiet about it. You’re an adult
already, why do you keep asking for sympathy?”
Positive Approach:
“I’m very sorry that your teeth hurt you. A toothache can be very painful.
It’s a good thing that the dentist was able to give you an early
appointment. Is there anything I can get you that might make you feel better
right now?”
Ona’as Dvorim:
“You’re making a big fuss over nothing. So what if the meal you cooked was
ruined and the guests had to eat something else. They still had something to
eat. You’re making a mountain out of a molehill.”
Positive Approach:
“I realize how frustrating it must have been to have made an entire meal and
then had it ruined because someone forgot to turn off the oven. Most people
would feel upset. But I noticed that the guests still enjoyed. Nobody went
hungry--the substitute food was fine. For sure, it wasn’t as good as your
cooking, but it served its purpose. Everyone had a very pleasant evening. I
even heard a few people comment on what a fine hostess you were. They were
impressed by how well you dealt with the entire situation.”
Let’s get going—we have 38 days to move ourselves—and, quite literally,
change the world!
=================================
30 Sivan
REMINDER--SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
----------------------------------------------------------
NINETEEN WEEKS:
As we
especially dedicate ourselves to the seventh Bracha of Shemone Esrei this
week, we provide the following words of instruction from the great
Praying with Passion Series (in order to go through this entire
outstanding series on Tefillah, please visit
http://prayingwithfire.org/archives.html
):
“In
this seventh bracha of Shemone Esrei, we pray for redemption from everyday
troubles and request that Hashem relieve hardships which come our way. Rashi
(Megilah 17b) explains that the reference to “redemption” in this blessing
does not refer to the ultimate Redemption. It is in the later brachos of
Shemone Esrei that we ask Hashem to gather the exiles (blessing 10), rebuild
Jerusalem (blessing 14), and bring Mashiach (blessing 15). In fact, Bais
Yosef (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 115) writes that this bracha of
redemption refers to each and every difficult situation from which we
beseech Hashem to redeem us. HaRav Shamshon Rafael Hirsch, Z’tl, explains
that with the phrase Re’eih V’Anyeinu, “behold our affliction,” we
ask Hashem to save us from tzaros which are not caused by other human
beings (such as floods, economic downturns, diseases and so forth). In
V’Riva
Riveinu,
“take up our grievance,” we ask Him to redeem us from the tzaros
caused by human beings (criminals, terrorists, enemy forces, etc.). The
bracha concludes in the present tense—Go’el
Yisrael,
Redeemer of Yisrael—because we truly experience some form of geulah
every day.”
----------------------------------------------------------
ENTERING TAMMUZ!
As we enter the portals of Tammuz tomorrow, we recognize not only that ten
months of this year have passed, but that there are still three months left
to go! We each can accomplish so much in the coming 3 months. For instance,
the entire book Praying With Fire (by Rabbi Heshy Kleinman, Shlita,
published by Artscroll, 2005), can be studied over its five-minute a day,
89-day cycle which begins tomorrow the first of Tammuz and concludes on Erev
Rosh Hashanah. Uplifting and upgrading your davening, and improving upon
your bond with Hashem, is a great way to concomitantly conclude this year,
prepare for the Yomim Noraim and grow in the coming year! Praying with
Fire, is one of Artscroll’s bestselling Seforim ever, and is
available in large and even pocket-sized copies in your local Jewish
bookstore. Even to the many who have gone through the Sefer once and more
than once, perhaps do it with some family or friends, or others, and try to
discuss with them the short five-minute segments presented daily.
----------------------------------------------------------
A
SPECIAL MESSAGE FROM THE CHOFETZ CHAIM:
Chazal
teach that one should weigh the ‘loss’ one may suffer in performing a
Mitzvah against the reward to be received, and the immediate ‘reward’ of an
aveirah against the loss for performing it. The Chofetz Chaim provides a
practical and meaningful explanation on these famous words of Chazal: The
reward for a Mitzvah is not immediate, but instead will be eternal--and that
eternal reward will not be a status of minimal bliss, but instead a
Ta’anug Norah--awesome pleasure in Olam Habba which outweighs all of the
luxuries and pleasures of this world. In contrast, the ‘reward’ for an
Aveirah is short-lived in Olam Hazeh and trifles in significance to the
eternal punishment that one may receive for its performance. Picture, for
instance, a scale in front of you--on one side of the scale is written the
words: ‘Loss from Mitzvah Performance’, and on the other ‘Reward for Mitzvah
Performance’. The scale will be so uneven that one will not even be able to
recognize it as a scale. The opposite is true of the Aveirah Performance
Scale--where one side is labeled ‘The Pleasure from the Aveirah’, and on the
other side stand all of the Mashchisim who have been created as a
result of the Aveirah to attack and hurt the one who performed it. We simply
have to use our common sense to make the right decision--each and every
time!
Hakhel
Note: The Chofetz Chaim points to the Pesukim in Nechemia (Chapter 3) which
provide specific names of the men who helped build the wall around
Yerushalayim at the time of the Bayis Sheini. If the builders of the
temporary wall around the City are named--all the more so the builders of
the Third and Everlasting Beis HaMikdash itself!
----------------------------------------------------------
WE
PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL
LESSONS FROM THE SEFER
ORCHOS YOSHER--A
SEFER WRITTEN BY
HARAV CHAIM
KANIEVSKY, SHLITA, HIMSELF,
RELATING ESSENTIALLY TO
MIDDOS TOVOS:
PART 2
1. Chazal (Megillah 28A) record that Rebbe Nechunia ben HaKanna
(the author of the Tefillah that we recite daily
before we begin to learn and after
we complete our learning--Brachos 28B), was asked what he did to
merit long life. His first response was “Lo Niskabadati Biklon Chaveiri--I
did not take honor at the expense of a friend.
While this Middah Ra’ah --to in some way derive benefit from the
shame or disgrace of others--may be a favorite of
the Yetzer Hora, we must combat it--remembering that
HaMekabel Pnei Chaveiro KiMekabel P’nei HaShechina--the feelings of
honor to be accorded to others should in our minds resemble the honor that
we would want to give to the Shechina itself!
Hakhel Note: HaRav Kanievsky
adds that when one accords respect even to those who are clearly ‘ketanim
mimenu’--he performs an act of Kiddush Hashem (as the
Rambam describes in Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah (Chapter 5)).
2. On top of all of the other Issurim that one may be oveir
by speaking without thinking, he also is considered to have the Middah
Ra’ah of laitzanus. Chazal (Devarim Rabbah 6:10) teach that
Malachim escort every person and write down kol dibbur vedibbur--every
single thing he says--and one is really held accountable for it. Indeed,
the Sefer Chassidim (162) writes that when
a person is born, it is decreed how many words he
will speak--and after 120 years an accounting is done--were they words of
mitzvah or....HaRav Kanievsky
cautions that one should not think that any words of Chazal are
exaggeration--and, unless one does Teshuva, he must recognize that real
reward and real punishment await him--for this is the foundation of our
faith.
3. It is one thing to get hoodwinked by the Yetzer Hora based upon
a momentary lack of proper discretion, but it is
another to specifically set aside time for inappropriate recreation in which
one simply puts Hashem out of his mind in that time--ignoring that Meloh
Kol Ha’aretz Kevodo--Hashem’s glory fills the universe--all the time!
4. Fortunate is the person who
is Ma’avir Al Middosav--who overlooks what others have done to him,
and overcomes a hakpada that he has, or other
insult, hurt or injury of any kind. Chazal record that Rav Huna brei
deRav was very seriously ill (perhaps not alive) for several days. Upon his
return to ‘this world’, he related that Malachei Shareis were able to
be successfully Melameid Zechus on him because of his unyielding
dedication to being Ma’avir Al Middosav--in no uncertain terms... it
had saved his life!
5. Kinah or jealousy is
a Middah Ra’ah Me’od--Chazal (Shabbos 152B)
explain that it is the one Middah that causes one’s bones to rot in his
kever. Even when kinah is used positively--as in Kinas Sofrim Tarbeh
Chochma, this does not mean that one should actually be jealous of
someone else who is greater spiritually. Rather, it means that one should
learn from his deeds, and do as he does....
6. Every mitzvah opportunity
that one has is a gift Min HaShamayim. If
one truly appreciates this, his Mitzvos should be marked by
a recognizable Simcha Shel Mitzvah. Indeed, in accordance with the
Simcha one truly feels, will he receive an Or Elyon.
HaRav Kanievsky concludes
(in the name of HaRav Chaim
Vital, Z’tl) regarding one who accustoms himself to
performing Mitzvos with this appreciation and joy: “Ein Safek
She’yashreh Alav Ruach Hakodesh”--there is no doubt that such
a person will be zoche to Ruach Hakodesh!
We all can move ourselves in this direction--let’s
feel the joy--each and every time!
=================================
29 Sivan
FROM RABBI AVIGDOR MILLER, Z’TL:
“Man’s mind is only a vessel by which Hashem transmits knowledge to the
world. It is not an independent source of wisdom. Hashem is the Source of
all understanding and wisdom.” (Ohr Avigdor, Sha’ar HeBechinah)
----------------------------------------------
AMAZING RESOURCE!
The
Torah Communications Network provides an outstanding array of Shiurim over
the phone including Dial-A-Shiur in Halacha, Parashas HaShavuah, Tefillah,
Tehillim, Mishna Yomis, Mishna Berurah and has the Daf Yomi available both
in one hour per-Daf format and B’Iyun. For further information please see a
flyer available at the following link
http://www.hakhel.info/archivesPublicService/TCNFlyer.pdf To sample a
program, please call 718-436-3846.
----------------------------------------------
TODAY! The
Vilna Gaon writes to his close family in the Igeres HaGra:”Kol
Regah V’Regah She’Odom Chosem Piv--every moment that a person keeps
silent” (i.e., in a situation where he would/could speak up), entitles him
to bask in a Hidden Light that no angel or other creation could fathom.
While
we all may be very familiar with this quote, we should make an extra special
effort to energize the quote and actually apply it in everyday life.
Imagine enjoying and benefiting from a light that even an angel cannot
appreciate and attain. If we do not use this phrase to combat our Yetzer
Hara at least once a day in an at-home or at-work situation, we may be
acting in a very remiss manner--against ourselves! The 40-day
preparatory period which led to the Meraglim’s world-wrenching and
generation-affecting Loshon Hara on Tisha B’Av, commences today, on the 29th
day of Sivan (the day the Meraglim left for Eretz Yisrael). Now is the time
to prepare for a positive turn of the tongue. Today especially, is a
particularly propitious time to undertake this new, fresh attempt in the
area of Shmiras HaLashon. If the Malachim have no part in this reserved
Hidden Light, then let us at least consider and act upon the special
opportunities we have at certain moments during the day!
----------------------------------------------------------
WE
PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING
LESSONS FROM THE SEFER
ORCHOS YOSHER--A
SEFER WRITTEN BY
HARAV CHAIM
KANIEVSKY, SHLITA, HIMSELF,
RELATING ESSENTIALLY TO
MIDDOS TOVOS:
PART I
A. One who is careful not to speak any sheker, any
falsehood, will merit having his brachos fulfilled--for just as he is
careful not to speak falsehood, Min HaShomayim they will be careful
that any bracha that he gives will be truthful and will be fulfilled.
B. Most Machlokes would never occur if one would realize
that he is, in fact, achieves greater success by being mevater, by
giving in, than by ‘winning’. Chazal (Bava Kamma 93A) teach that
a person should always be among those who are the
chased and not the ones doing the chasing--for there are no birds more
pursued than the turtledove and the pigeon, and these are the only birds
that are Kosher for the Mizbe’ach.
C. One who makes it his practice to be mevater, spares
himself from sinah, machlokes and
tzaros.
D. On the Middah of zerizus--The Chazon Ish would say
that a Segulah not to forget to do something--is to
do it immediately!
E. The Torah is the gate to Yiras Shomayim--if one does not have
Yiras Shomayim, what purpose will the Torah serve?
F. The more Yiras Cheit that a
person has, the more Siyata Dishmaya he will have not to fall prey to
sin. Simply stated, if one is Shomer himself, Min
HaShomayim they will be Shomer him as well.
G. The golden rule in Kibud Av V’Eim is: The way in which one
would want his children to treat him, and what he would like them to do for
him--is the way he should treat his parents and the acts he should undertake
on their behalf!
H. Chazal(Brachos 19A) teach that Tzurba
MaiRabbanan HaKadosh Baruch Hu Tiba’i Yakrei--When it comes to a Talmid
Chochom, Hashem cares about and seeks out his honor. HaRav Kanievsky
teaches that this is because ‘Kol Kiyum HaTorah Talui BiShemiya
LeChachomim, VeIm Ain Mechabdin Ossan, Batel Mora’an Ve’asida Kol HaTorah
Libatel Chas Veshalom--the continuance of Torah among our people is
dependent on our following the words of our Chachomim, and if we do not
honor them properly, we will not have the proper reverence for them and the
entire Torah c’v would be voided.’ HaRav Kanievsky goes on to explain
that this is the very reason that Moshe Rabbeinu in this week’s Parasha
asked for Korach and his cohorts to be punished. It was not c’v any
vindictiveness--it was simply necessary for the Kiyum HaTorah itself!
Hakhel Note: As Torah Jews, it is of UTMOST
IMPORTANCE, as HaRav Kanievsky teaches, that we not be guided by “it’s my
opinion”, and “this is how I view it and that’s it “--but by the direction
of our Torah Scholars, who are our living embodiment of the Torah itself!
Additional Note: Rabbi Kanievsky also brings
Chazal (Koheles Rabba 1), who teach that “Yiheye BeEinecha Dor Sheba
Kedor Shehalach --one must view the leaders of his generation as equal
to the leaders of the prior generations--and one simply cannot say “if
Rebbe Akiva or Rebbe Yochanan...or
the Rashba, or the G’ra or
the Chasam Sofer had said it, I would surely listen, but....”--because our
Gedolim were placed into this world at this time for this reason--to be OUR
gedolim!
=================================
28 Sivan
SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
As we move towards the last quarter of the year which to those in the
Northern Hemisphere is the summer (to many, a challenging time), we intend
to present our annual Summer Improvement Program, with simple suggestions,
on a weekly basis, in each of the areas of Bein Adam LaMakom, Bein Adam
L’Chaveiro, and Bein Adam L’Atzmo. Of course, these are only
suggestions--but every person has the opportunity to join with others who
will be attempting the same successes. In the alternative, one can chart his
own improvement course on a weekly basis as well.
WEEK 1--PARASHAS KORACH
Bli neder, at least one time a day during this week, consciously do
the following:
Bein Adam LaMakom:
Say “Thank you Hashem!” with appreciation when opening up the refrigerator
and seeing inside the various nourishing, essential, and even
not-so-essential food and drink that Hashem has provided you with.
Bein Adam L’Chaveiro:
Smile at someone (especially someone who could use it), or cause someone
else to smile.
Bein Adam L’Atzmo:
Rather than taking out a cell phone when walking on the street or traveling,
once-a-day spend time with yourself.
----------------------------------------------------------
NINETEEN WEEKS!
We are
now in the seventh of the nineteen week period prior to Rosh Hashana.
In past years, we have proceeded weekly, Bracha by Bracha, through Shemone
Esrei with a special emphasis on Kavannah on that week’s Bracha. This
week’s Bracha is… GEULAH!
We begin asking for Geulah [both on a personal and tzibbur basis] with the
words Re’eih VeAnyeinu. HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, teaches
that this is based both on the Pasuk of Eicha (1:9) “Re’eih Hashem Es
Anyi--Hashem see my affliction”, and the Pasuk in Tehillim (25:18):
“Re’eih Anyi V’Amali--see my affliction and toil”.
HaRav Kanievsky adds that for those who recite Re’eih Nah--the word
Nah here means ‘please’ and not ‘now’ as the
Pasuk in Shmuel II (7:2) teaches: “Re’eih Nah (please)
Anochi Yoshev Biveis Arazim VeAron HaElokim Yoshev Besoch HaYeriah….”
HaRav Chaim adds that we ask Hashem not only to look at Anyeinu but
Ve’Anyeinu--into our afflictions--because
after all these years of Galus we do not even know how great our affliction
is and how much we are missing!
Hakhel Note:
This bracha contains very powerful requests--and the Kavannah that we have
should match the inherent potency of the bracha!
We
provide by the following link our additional notes to the Nineteen Brachos
for the years 5771 and 5772
http://www.hakhel.info/TefillahArchive.html
May we highly recommend the Nineteen Week Program again this year--either
based upon your own study (such as by utilizing the Praying with Passion
Series (available free by email by contacting us), the magnificent Rav
Schwab on Prayer, the Tefillah Tapes of Rabbi Berel Wein, Shlita, or
other wonderful resources), or by utilizing the link provided on a daily
basis throughout the week.
----------------------------------------------
THEY ARE
YOUR YEARS! Rashi teaches about the Meraglim that Reshaim Hallalu
Ra’u V’Lo Lakchu Mussar--they saw what had happened to Miriam but
disregarded it. HaRav Ezriel Erlanger, Shlita brings from his
father-in-law HaRav Shlomo Wolbe, Z’tl, that what we possess as human beings
is ‘yahren’--the years that Hashem graced us with in this world.
When we fail to take heed and to take action on that which occurs around us,
we demonstrate a lack of concern, a lack of care for our precious
possession. Just as a man who colors his hair to appear younger subverts the
value and goal of his life, so too does one who does not try to take the
lessons of life to heart obfuscate his life’s purpose and meaning. Hakhel
Note: When one specifically learns of a news item, he should not let it
pass--but realize that it is Hashgacha Pratis --for him to learn from, and
to act upon!
------------------------------------------
TZITZIS!
As
they take leave of the parasha of Tzitzis, men should be especially enthused
going forward by how we are given the opportunity in such an easy way to
perform such a sublime and pervasive Mitzvah--a Mitzvah that brings to
remember (U’Zechartem) and to perform (Va’Asisem Osam)
ALL of the other Mitzvos. As just a taste of the depths behind
the otherwise ‘easy’ Mitzvah to perform, the Dirshu Edition of the Mishna
Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 11, Dirshu Note 71) brings that the 32
Tzitzis strings represent the 32 Nesivos Hachochma. In the bracha of
Lehisateif BaTzitzis, the last two words begin with Lamed and
Veis--32 as well--representing the 32 teeth. The Sefer Kaf HaChaim
brings that having Kavannah in the Lamed and the Vais is accordingly a
segulah against toothaches. Indeed, if one needs to cut his Tzitzis, he
should do so with his teeth (Machatzis HaShekel). Hakhel Note: Who
could have imagined that there was such a relationship between one’s Tzitzis
and one’s teeth in terms of the true profundity of the Mitzvah. This is
undoubtedly just the tip of the iceberg!
------------------------------------------
GRASSHOPPERS?
In last week’s Parasha, the Meraglim depict: “And we were in our eyes like
grasshoppers, and so were we in their eyes” (Bamidbar 13:33).
Rav
Eliyahu Mann, Shlita, asks the following--What is the point of all of the
“sheva brachos” Divrei Torah in which we praise the chosson, the kallah, the
families.... where is the tznius and the anava, the modesty and the
humility? Rav Mann answers, in the name of his father, that these words
of chizuk are actually very important. His father explains as follows:
After 24 years of uninterrupted study with his students, Rebbi Akiva told
his students “All that we have comes from [Rochel--Rebbi Akiva’s wife]”.
Why was this so? Because Rochel, as the daughter of one of the wealthiest
men of the generation, could have literally married the most eligible bochur
in the world. Instead, she saw, and brought out, in Rebbi Akiva (then a 40
year old Am Ha’Aretz) his great kochos--his ability to be one of the supreme
leaders in Klal Yisrael’s decorated history.
We
learn from this history-changing incident that it is imperative that we
point out, bring out and build up our friends’ strengths and attributes so
that they will be encouraged to work on their G-d given gifts, and realize
their potential and tafkid, or purpose, in life. Whether it be a particular
clarity of either oral or written expression, a beautiful voice, a keen
sensitivity, a strong willpower, an ability to sit and study, a charismatic
Tzedakah-raising personality, or an unusually pleasant nature--these
strengths should be used for their benefit, and the benefit of others. It
goes without saying that we need not love our friends more than ourselves
(Love Your Neighbor AS YOURSELF). Thus, if we know that Hashem has given us
certain special abilities or talents, we should not brush them under the
rug, ignore them or even wait to develop them--rather, we should try our
utmost to use these gifts in our daily activities. Shlomo Hamelech, the
wisest of all men, advises “Honor Hashem with your wealth” (Mishlei 3:9).
Rashi (ibid) writes that the wealth referred to by the wisest of all men is
not limited to money--but most definitely includes whatever Hashem has
graced you with.
Rav
Dessler, Z’tl (Michtav M’Eliyahu 4:98) writes that “Mazal” is a
person’s utilization of his “nature and nurture”--his innate talents and
particular surroundings-- to realize and fulfill his mission in life. Rav
Aryeh Carmel, Shlita, in his gloss there, notes that when we say “Mazal Tov”
we are providing a very meaningful bracha--that Hashem bless the young
couple (or the bar mitzva bochur or the newly-born baby, etc.) with those
very talents needed to fulfill their purpose without difficulty.
When
we help others (and ourselves), work on developing and encouraging
capabilities and strengths, we are literally helping to fulfill their and
our purposes in life. Could anything be more important than to provide the
necessary direction and encouragement to a chosson or kallah, and to help
guide the new mates to help each other?
As we
noted at the beginning of this writing, the Meraglim, the spies, stated “We
were in our eyes like grasshoppers...” When you feel like an insect, you do
not feel like you have much potential. The resulting report that the spies
came back with, and its effect on K’lal Yisrael then, and for eternity, is
history.
Far be
it from us to repeat this great mistake. Perhaps each one of us should take
a pad out and begin listing those attributes, those traits, those
capabilities, those strengths that we and our best friend(s) really do have,
and begin to make sure that they are properly utilized, so that we, like
Yehoshua and Calev, will be among those who readily realize their ultimate
purpose and mission in life!
=================================
25 Sivan
WE
CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
This
Shabbos, we begin our annual review of Summer Shabbos Shailos, with the
Teshuvos of Rabbi Yisroel Belsky, Z’tl, to us:
PART I
KABBALAS SHABBOS
QUESTION: On Friday when is the latest that one may leave New York City
for the mountains, on account of the inevitable heavy traffic?
ANSWER:
One
who leaves the City for the Mountains with less than four (4) hours to spare
should take along Shabbos supplies, such as food, wine, tallis, appropriate
clothing, and be prepared to stop at a motel when conditions warrant it.
QUESTION: If a family takes on Shabbos early, when does a woman have to
light her candles?
ANSWER:
Rav Moshe Feinstein, Z’tl, writes (Igros Moshe, Orach Chayim, 3:38)
that if, as in most cases, the husband makes an early Shabbos because of
convenience, not because he wants to add to the kedusha of Shabbos, then the
woman is not bound by the kahal’s or the husband’s Kabbalas Shabbos and may
light the candles later or even at the time the husband comes home. When an
entire community inaugurates the Shabbos early, such as in a bungalow
colony, regardless of their rationale, no one in the community is exempt
from the kahal’s Kabbala. If there are a few minyanim and people alternate
from one to the other as the need arises, then there is no tzibbur and no
Kabbalas HaTzibbur. If there is indeed one monolithic community, but a few
stragglers continue to ride around in their cars while everyone else is
greeting the Shabbos, these people are being mechalel Shabbos and should be
admonished. If, as the question suggests, the particular family has decided
to honor the Shabbos by adding to its kedusha, then all agree that every
family member is bound by one Kabbalas Shabbos.
QUESTION: During the summer, Plag Hamincha on some Shabbosos is after
7:00PM
and the Mincha minyan is at 7:00PM . What is the proper time for
women to light?
ANSWER:
When Plag Hamincha is at 7:00PM , Mincha should be davened before then and
Maariv afterwards. There is an (important) opinion which allows for both
Mincha and Maariv to be davened after Plag Hamincha on Friday, but the
Mishna Berurah frowns upon it and thus, it should be avoided. If no one in
shul knows how to calculate the time of Plag Hamincha and no chart is
available for guidance, expert help should be sought. Licht bentchen must
be done after Plag Hamincha. In case candles were lit before then, the
brocha is considered levatala and candles must be lit again with a brocha.
Consult with a Rav for guidance in such situations, if possible.
QUESTION: If my husband goes to the early minyan can I still do Melacha?
If so, until when?
ANSWER:
Even where a woman may do melacha after her husband was mekabel Shabbos, she
may not do melacha for her husband. Please note that a wife is never bound
by her husband’s personal Kabbalas Shabbos, only by the kahal’s Kabbala
where both husband and wife belong to the same kahal or by the family’s
Kabbala as explained above.
QUESTION: If my husband returned home from shul after attending an early
Kabbolas Shabbos minyan, can I still light the candles since it is still not
sh’kiah?
ANSWER:
It can be argued that licht bentchen is a melacha done for the husband to
ensure Shalom Bayis and thus should be prohibited as above. You can rely on
the lenient opinion but you should strenuously avoid lighting candles after
the people come home from shul. This is an affront to kedushas Shabbos and
surely not conducive to Shalom Bayis as it belittles your husband. Will the
malochim give their brocha when they accompany your husband home from shul
and find chol there instead of Shabbos? Take your guess. Never, ever allow
for that sort of occurrence.
QUESTION: If we make early Shabbos, am I permitted to finish the meal
before nightfall or do I have to finish it after nightfall? Do I have to eat
a K’zayis after nightfall?
ANSWER:
You should preferably eat at least a K’zayis of challah after tzais
hacochavim and do not rely on leniencies, as explained in the Mishna
Berurah. There is something else to consider when addressing this question.
If one began his early Shabbos davening at 7PM as mentioned earlier, he
should be making Kiddush around 8PM . What will be taking place at his
Shabbosdike tisch? Torah? Zemiros? A joyous, sumptuous family meal in an
atmosphere of relaxed happiness and Shabbos holiness? The very question
suggests a desire to rush, that the Shabbos seudah is being treated as an
interference which must be over and done with as quickly as possible, r’l.
In that case, a K’zayis after tzais hacochavim will not do the trick
(unless we are speaking of merely ensuring that challah is eaten at the end
of a properly-conducted meal). Think about it.
QUESTION: How many candles should my wife light if she normally lights
seven candles in the City? Is there a difference if my kitchen is small or
if I rent a bungalow?
ANSWER:
If there is room for setting up the full measure of lights, it should be
attempted. On the other hand, many lights in cramped quarters with a bunch
of small children K’EH running around is both impractical and downright
dangerous R’L. Safety is also kavod Shabbos. Be careful!
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IMPORTANT NOTES ON PARASHAS SHELACH:
A.
The Torah teaches us that the Meraglim took from the fruit of Eretz Yisrael
and brought it with them to show the B’nei Yisrael. This appears
problematic--did not Avrohom Avinu separate from his student and close
family member, Lot , because Lot ‘s shepherds were grazing on land that
would belong to Avrohom--but did not belong to him yet? How could the
Meraglim have the license to do so? One cannot simply answer that what they
did was wrong--for Moshe Rabbeinu himself had advised them--”U’Lekachtem
MiPri Ha’Aretz (Bamidbar 13:20)--and you shall take from the fruit of
the land.” How was this possible--it was not ours yet? Your insights are
always welcome!
B. Chazal
teach that the basis for a Minyan consisting of ten adult Jewish males for a
Davar SheBekedusha is from this week’s Parasha. The Meraglim who
came back with negative findings were ten adult Jewish males whom the Torah
refers to as an Aidah, a congregation. Through a gezeria shavah,
Chazal learn that any time Hashem’s Name is--to the contrary--to be
sanctified Besoch Bnei Yisrael then the same number and kind of people are
required. There are great lessons that may be learned from this teaching.
To name just a few: Firstly, one should learn the lessons from his
negative experiences and apply them in a positive way going forward.
Secondly, it is really just as easy to do a good a thing as a bad thing.
It is the Yetzer Hara that convinces you otherwise. Thirdly, we can learn
something from everyone--even those who may be erstwhile reshaim.
Almost everyone has some redeeming qualities--”Aizeh Hu Chochom HaLomeid
Mikol Adam.”
C.
In this week’s Parasha, we find the Meraglim’s complaints against Eretz
Yisrael. Chazal teach that while the Meraglim were gathering their
information, Kalev went to be ‘Mishtateiach’--spread himself out on
the Kevarim of our Avos. HaRav Chaim Boruch Faskowitz, Z’tl, teaches that
Kalev spread himself out on the land so that he could get a greater
appreciation of it--so that he could develop a chiba --an
endearment--of it in a way which was more than that of a spy or just a
visitor. He thus demonstrated to us for all time that we should develop a
special love for Eretz Yisrael--seeing only its goodness, as the Pasuk
teaches “ U’Re’ah BeTuv Yerushalayim--and you should see the good of
Yerushalayim.” Especially in our time when Eretz Yisrael and its residents
are maligned and scorned, we must strengthen ourselves in always feeling its
goodness, and projecting this steadfast and unwavering feeling to others. We
should not allow the world’s treatment of Acheinu Bnei Yisrael to c’v
affect our Ahavas Yisrael.
Let us
now focus on something about the Land that we recite daily-in the bracha of
Ahl HaMichya. In this bracha, we ask that Hashem bring us up to
Yerushalayim and gladden us in its rebuilding. We continue with the words “V’Nochal
MiPirya V’Nisba Metuva--and we will eat from its fruit and be satisfied
with its goodness.” The Tur in Orach Chaim Chapter 208 brings the opinion
that these words--”V’Nochal MiPirya V’Nisba Metuva” should not be
recited. The reason for their deletion--is this the reason that one wants
to come back to Yerushalayim---to be satiated by its fruit!?! The words
appear inappropriate. The loftiness and supernal holiness of Yerushalayim
cannot simply be converted into a stated desire to partake of delicious
grapes or outstanding apples and oranges!
Yet
most, if not all, of us do recite the words “V’Nochal MiPirya V’Nisba
Metuva” in which we categorically proclaim that we wish to be returned
to Yerushalayim to enjoy its bountiful produce. So what do we mean by these
words? The Bach in his commentary to the Tur wonderfully explains their
true meaning. He teaches that the Holiness of the Land, which flows from
the Holiness above, directly affects--and is actually imbibed by--the fruits
of the Land, as well. Incredible as it may sound, when one is nurtured by
the fruits of Eretz Yisrael, he is actually being nurtured, as the Bach
writes, by the “Kedushas HaShechina” which dwells within the Land itself.
When the Land is defiled, the Shechina resting within the Land itself
departs, as well, and we eat fruit missing the Kedushas HaShechina within
it. We pray, then, to return to Yerushalayim--a Yerushalayim in which we
can literally ingest the Kedushas HaShechina which has returned. In this
way, we will eat of its fruits and be satiated from their goodness. This is
what we truly look forward to, and this what we mean.
As we
specifically request in the Ahl HaMichya-- may we become so satiated “Bimeheira
VeYameinu”—speedily and in our days!
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THE
PARASHA CONCLUDES WITH THE MITZVAH OF TZITZIS. WE PROVIDE BELOW SEVERAL
REMINDER NOTES WITH RESPECT TO THIS WONDROUS MITZVAH (BASED UPON SHULCHAN
ARUCH, ORACH CHAIM 24):
1.
Before putting on one’s Talis or Tzitzis, he should have in mind (better
yet, express) that he is doing so in order to remember all of the Mitzvos of
the Torah and perform them--as the Pasuk itself says “Lema’an Tizkeru
Va’Asisem Es Kol Mitzvosai”--one should wear them in order to remember
the Mitzvos and perform them. When making the bracha over the Tzitzis, one
should be looking at the Tzitzis.
2.
When reciting the Shema one should hold the two front Tzitzis in his left
hand between his pinky and his ‘ring-finger’ opposite his heart. This is
true for a lefty as well. Some take all four Tzitzis in between their
fingers (Ahl Pi Kabbalah). According to the Mishna Berura (ibid,
seif katan 5), holding them opposite the heart is a unique Segulah to be
saved from the Yetzer Hara.
3.
When beginning the Parasha of Tzitzis , one takes the Tzitzis into his
right hand as well. Upon reciting the phrase “Ure’isem Oso--you
shall see them” there are those who pass them in front of their eyes and
then kiss them. This is a Chibuv Mitzvah. It is brought in the name of
Kadmonim that one who performs this Chibuv Mitzvah will not become blind.
According to other authorities, it is actually a Mitzvas Aseh, upon
reciting the words U’reisem Oso, to look at the Tzitzis with the
intent of remembering the Mitzvos and performing them, for you are directly
fulfilling the very words you are reciting. The two Tzitzis that one looks
at have sixteen strings and ten knots--which equals the Gematria of the name
of Hashem of Yud-Kay-Vav-Kay.
4.
Some have the custom to kiss the Tzitzis every time the word Tzitzis is
recited. The Tzitzis should be kissed and placed down upon saying the word
Lo’ad (before Uleolmei Olamim) after Kriyas Shema.
5.
One makes the Bracha of Shehechiyanu over a new Talis Gadol, if it is a new
important garment to him. It is forbidden to sew or weave Pesukim onto
one’s Tallis.
6.
The Sefer Piskei Teshuvos cites the opinion of many Rishonim who
rule that one fulfills a Mitzvas Asei every time during the day that
he looks at his Tzitzis, having in mind that he is looking at them in order
to remember the Mitzvos and perform them. The Shulchan Aruch concludes
Hilchos Tzitzis with the words of Chazal: One who is careful with the
Mitzvah of Tzitzis will be Zoche to see the ‘face’ of the Shechina! Let us
learn more and more about this Mitzvah and its proper performance and
hiddurim--and may we all bask in the Shechina’s Light!
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A TIMELY NOTE FOR THE SUMMER MONTHS:
We have received interesting and important comments from readers in the past
relating to the words found at the end of this week’s Parasha, which many of
us recite two and even three times a day: “VeLo Sasuru Acharei Levavchem
V’Acharei Eineichem--And do not go after your hearts and your eyes” (Bamidbar
15:39). Here is their food for thought:
1. One reader commented that she heard in a Shiur that the Mitzvah of not
following your eyes applies only to men. She added on her own--that is why
this Mitzvah is in the Parasha of Tzitzis, which applies to men. Perhaps
she did not hear correctly, or the speaker was making a different point, but
the Mitzvah of not following and falling prey to the desires of your heart
and eyes applies equally to men and women, as the Sefer HaChinuch
clearly writes in Mitzvah 387. We all must control ourselves, and nobody
can make an exception of himself--or herself!
2. Another reader commented that it is “no coincidence” (obviously, one of
our avid readers!) that these words--enjoining us from following our hearts
and eyes--are taught immediately before the summer when the desires and
temptations of the world around us come more to the fore. The Torah tells
us that if others are sinking, it is a time for you to raise yourself up.
Look into yourself and not out to the mistakes of those around you.
Hakhel Note: The Torah, in fact, takes it a step further. The next Pasuk
after Lo Sasuru continues with “LeMa’an Tizkeru Va’Asisem Es Kol
Mitzvosai--If you control yourself you will remember and perform all of
My Mitzvos, and will be holy to Hashem”. Controlling passions and drives is
not only an end in and of itself--it is the path to all of the other Mitzvos--and
to your being considered holy by Hashem, even if you are not a Kohen, Levi,
Rosh Yeshiva or Posek!
3. Another reader wrote that the Mitzvah of Lo Sasuru is actually
not written in the Lashon Yachid--the singular, but in the lashon rabim--the
plural (Sasuru, Levavchem, Eineichem) to teach us that one cannot
justify his actions because “everybody eats there, says that, or thinks
those thoughts.” Your Creator, through the Torah, tells you that you cannot
lose yourself in the crowd and that Hashem thinks very highly of you
individually and knows your capabilities.
4. Finally, a reader wrote that he had read in the name of the G’ra that
the reason the heart is mentioned before the eyes in the Pasuk is because
when it comes to arayos (forbidden relationships), the Yetzer Hara in
thought is working even before the eyes see anything. Accordingly, the
first step is to control the thoughts in this area--even before the eyes.
Hakhel Note: We only would like to point out that our thought process could
be replaced and filled with proper thoughts of Avodas Hashem in lieu of the
inappropriate thoughts that could creep in. Accordingly, it would seem
especially appropriate to have a Pasuk or thought ready when one senses the
wrong environment or feeling entering his thought process. As Hashem
separates the pure from the impure, so must we!
-----------------------------------------------------------------
NOTES ON THIS WEEK’S PIRKEI AVOS (CHAPTER 3):
1.
Rebbi Nechunyah Ben Hakanah (3:6) teaches that: “Kol HaMekabel Alav Ohl
Torah…one who accepts upon himself the yolk of Torah, he will have
removed from him the yolk of government and the yolk of worldly
responsibilities.” Rebbi Nechunyah then continues: “Vechol Haporeik
Mimenu Ohl Torah…but if someone throws off the yolk of Torah from
himself--the yolk of government and the yolk of worldly responsibilities are
placed upon him.” Rebbi Nechunyah teaches us that there are but two
alternatives--and not three, four or more. One either accepts upon himself
the yolk of Torah, or throws it off.
In an
almost identical fashion, Rebbi Chananyah Ben Tradyon (ibid. 3:3) teaches: “Shenayim
Sheyoshvin V’Ein Beineihem…--if two sit together and there are no words
of Torah between them, it is a moshav leitzim….” Whereas, “if two sit
together and words of Torah are between them, the Shechinah rests between
them”. Once again, there aren’t three or four choices--only two. Either the
two sitting together recognize the significance of their being together and
exchange words of Torah bringing the Shechinah into their midst--or they are
like those attending a boxing match. Every person has a choice in life--as
the Torah expressly sets forth (Devorim 30:15) “Re’eih Nasati Lifanecha
Hayom…see I have placed before you today the life and the good, and the
death and the evil…U’vacharta BaChaim--and you shall choose life!”
2.
Rebbi Akiva (Avos 3:17 ) teaches that “Seyag LaChochma Shesika--a
protective fence for wisdom is silence.” This closely follows the teaching
of Rabban Shimon ben Gamliel (ibid. 1:17): “Kol Yomai Godalti
Bain HaChachamim...all my days I have been raised among chachomim and I
have found nothing better for oneself than silence...and one who talks
excessively brings on sin.” The Bartenura on Rebbi Akiva’s teaching
explains that Rebbi Akiva is not talking about sinful speech such as Lashon
Hara or Ona’as Devorim which is in any event forbidden. Rather, he is
speaking about permissible speech, which is still hurtful if left
unchecked. HaRav Avigdor Miller, Z’tl, accordingly teaches that one should
practice every day refraining from saying something (permissible) that he
was otherwise going to say. This, HaRav Miller teaches, demonstrates a level
of Yiras Shomayim, recognizing that one is not in control of his power of
speech--but that it is HaKadosh Baruch Hu who opens our minds and our
mouths. This level of Yiras Shomayim, in turn, will help prevent one from
sin. Indeed, Dovid HaMelech teaches in Tehillim (111:10): Raishis
Chochma--Yiras Hashem--the Chochma referred to by Rebbi Akiva could be
the Yiras Shomayim referred to in the Pasuk. In a similar vein, it is well
known that HaRav Pam, Z’tl, even for the most obvious or simple response
would typically wait for a moment or more--so that the word or words uttered
were uttered with awareness and care. We should take the lesson to
heart--we start off the day with Raishis Chochma--can we try and
follow HaRav Miller’s suggestion-and work on our Chochma and Yiras Shomayim-by
keeping our lips sealed--not making the added comment or excessive
statement, not providing the additional opinion or witticism--just one time
a day--(preferably in the morning)? One may never know when and where the
fruits of this Avodah will blossom and appear!
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