Hakhel Email Community Awareness Bulletin
MARCH 2017 DAILY EMAIL ARCHIVE
4 Nissan
SPECIAL RESOURCES:
We provide by the following links wonderful Pesach Handbooks for your
distribution--as made available by Ohr Somayach and Partners in Torah--Mi
KeAmcha Yisrael!!
Ohr Somayach
http://ohr.edu/pesachbook/org.php
Partners in Torah
http://www.partnersintorah.org/jewish-holidays/passover
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BIRCHAS HAILANOS REMINDER!
May we suggest that you join with family or others to make this uplifting
annual bracha? If you have not already made the bracha--don’t delay--and be
mezakeh others with a warm reminder!
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SEIZE THE OPPORTUNITY:
The opportunities for us to recite “Mashiv HaRuach U’Morid HaGeshem”
and “V’Sein Tal U’Matar L’Vracha” in 5777 are becoming fewer and
fewer. Please remember to make them really count!
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TEFILLAH AHL HAGEULAH:
We remind our readers that as we are in the period between the Geulah of
Purim and the Geulah from Mitzrayim, it is certainly an auspicious time for
the final, everlasting Geulah. Accordingly, we provide by the following
link to the Hakhel website the Tefillah Al HaGeulah, to be recited with
Kavannah--especially during the month of Nissan! The
Hebrew version by clicking here
or the
English version by clicking here.
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HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially
spiritual period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach! The following
are culled from the Notes of the Dirshu Edition of the Mishna Berurah. Of
course, one should in all events consult with his own Rav or Posek
pertaining to his particular facts or circumstances:
A. At
a Hakhel shiur, HaRav Belsky, Z’tl, suggested that one search for chometz as
if he were searching for a valuable coin or piece of jewelry--would you
shrug your shoulder and not look here or there, or not make the extra effort
when you realize how much is at stake? Go for the Gold!
B. At
the same shiur, HaRav Belsky ruled that one could simply place his stove
top grates into the self-cleaning oven to kasher them, rather than
subjecting them to intense heat via placement of a blech on top of the
stove.
C. At
the Seder, two out of the 15 Simanim (more than 10%) are comprised of
washing of the hands--U’Rchatz and Rachtza. Clearly, this is a meaningful
and significant activity, and should be viewed as much more than a
ministerial or perfunctory act that we do daily. To get ready for the Seder
(if you wash Mayim Achronim you will actually wash a third time), may we
suggest that rather than thinking about nothing too important or letting
your mind wander when washing over the next 10 days, that with each pour of
water over each hand you think--”Thank you Hashem! Thank You Hashem!” and
think of something else you are thankful to Hashem for with each pour!
Having difficulty starting? You can start as far back as Yetzias Mitzraim,
and as close by as having the ability to pick up the cup and pour... and
there is a lot--a lot--in between to be thankful for! Then--when it comes to
the Seder--let your thanks reach a crescendo!
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FROM THE OUTSTANDING TORAH TAVLIN HAGGADAH:
“Rav
Zalman Guttman, Shlita, writes that Emunah means knowing that Hashem is the
Creator and Supervisor of every single action in this world, and that
everything He does is for the good! All negative traits, such as anger,
frustration and kefirah, can be traced back to Paroh, the one who
said: “Who is Hashem that I should listen to His voice?” (Shemos 5:2) Hakhel
Note: You may want to reflect upon this teaching and its significance a bit
further.
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UNGETZOIGENKEIT!
Rabbi Yosef Eisen, Shlita (in the name of HaRav Avrohom Schorr, Shlita)
brought an EXTREMELY POWERFUL Kedushas Levi relating to this time of
year. The heilige Kedushas Levi studied Jews scurrying about with so
many Mitzvos before Pesach, and wondered to himself HOW IT COULD REALLY BE
that the Moshiach did not arrive. He was left with one conclusion--it must
be due to our Ungetzoigenkeit--our being too on-edge, too tense, too
irritable, too obviously sleep deprived, too reaction-filled, too
short-fused, to make the Millions of Mitzvos performed at this time of year
as pure and pristine as they needed to be to turn the tide and bring us the
Geulah Sheleima. This week, as our To-Do list gets longer and our time to
accomplish it gets shorter, as there is legitimate basis for concern
that there is so much to get done with the clock ticking, as not everyone
around seems to be ‘pulling their weight’ the way they should, as the food
prices seem to match the gas prices--let us remember that--at least
according to the Kedushas Levi, we can do our part in finally
BRINGING US HOME by not losing ourselves, by keeping a perspective, by
the judicious uses of a Kepitel Tehillim before doing this errand and a
Kepitel Tehillim before speaking to that person, by maintaining a soft tone
and sharing thoughtful and kind words or compliments, by not responding to a
shout or a sarcasm with something in kind, by helping to calm another, all
of which will serve to project our Mitzvos on the very special, direct and
precise course to Geulah. Let’s try to keep a record (or at least a mental
note) over the next week of all our Geulah-bringing actions and reactions
that would make the Kedushas Levi so proud. The time is not next week
or the following one--the Time is now!
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A PROPOSED TEN DAY MIDDOS JOURNAL:
The Middos Journal
Ma’avir Ahl HaMiddos (this could include anger as well):
___________________________
Kiddush Hashem:______________________________________________________________
V’Rachamav Ahl Kol Ma’asav:___________________________________________________
Sever Panim Yaffos:____________________________________________________________
Emes--Truthfulness:____________________________________________________________
Chesed in
Private:______________________________________________________________
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THE
RIGHT TIME OF YEAR:
Rabbi Eliyahu Schneider, Shlita points out that Tosfos reconciles the fact
that according to Rebbe Eliezer the world was created in Tishrei, and
according to Rebbe Yehoshua the world was created in Nissan as follows: In
fact, there is no disagreement, Hashem’s ‘Machshava’, His thought to
create the world originated in Tishrei--but the Ma’aseh, the Creation
itself, was actualized in Tishrei.. Based upon the teaching of HaRav
Yitzchak Hutner, Z’tl, Rabbi Schneider explains that in Tishrei we follow
the lead of Hashem and work upon our Machshavos--our thoughts. We are busy
with Hirhurei Teshuva, with thoughts of self-improvement, and intent to
change over the coming year. Nissan, on the other hand, is the time
that the world was actually created--it is the time of Ma’aseh, of
deed, of action. All of the Chometz removal, all of the pre-Yom Tov
preparation--the Matzah, the shopping, kitchen, the Seder preparation , the
Yom Tov foods--this is exactly the Avodah of this time of year! We are
fulfilling the map and direction established by Hashem at the time of
creation itself. So as you toil, as you work, as you prepare and perform
the Mitzvos--recognize and appreciate--be glad of heart and regale--in your
fulfilling the LeMa’aseh of creation--exactly at the right time of
year!
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A SPECIAL TEFILLAH!
HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl (brought in the Sefer Sifsei Chaim)
brings a meaningful Tefillah to be recited before entering the streets
around us which do not honor or at least follow the same principles that we
have been taught. This very same Tefillah can in fact be recited when it
is necessary for us to turn to the Internet--which in many cases is
essentially bringing the streets into your office or home office. This is
the concise and potent Tefillah that he brings: Hineni Holech Begai
Tzalmovess Bemakom Mesukan. Hoshieini MiYetzerHora U’MaiChatoim U’MaiAvonos,
U’Bifrat [specify here any Chait that may be an issue based upon the
circumstances]. HaRav Friedlander then suggests that the following Pasuk
from Tehillim (119:37) be added: Ha’avair Einai Mair’os
Shav--Bidrachecha Chayeini--Avert my eyes from seeing futility; in Your
ways give me life! Hakhel Note: Although we have not yet found anyone who
has composed a Tefillah Before Internet Use, our solution above based upon
HaRav Friedlander may be a good start. One thing is certain--for one who
must use the Internet, Tefillos are definitely in order. There is no
better time to add on this ‘prayer before a search’ than the month of
Nissan--in which Tefillah played such a vital role not only in the salvation
of an individual--but in the salvation of our entire nation!
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WE CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
The following Halachos are culled from the Mishna Berurah Dirshu Edition. Of
course, one should in all events consult with his own Rav or Posek
pertaining to his particular facts or circumstances:
A. Frozen food in the freezer which would be edible if one would defrost it
is not Muktzah, even if one has no intent of defrosting it on Shabbos--because
it is possible to defrost and use (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 310, Dirshu
Note 29).
B. Rain which falls on Shabbos is not considered to be Muktzah. With respect
to snow, it not as clear: HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl and HaRav
Elyashiv, Z’tl, rule that it is not Muktzah and HaRav Moshe Feinstein, Z’tl
(as brought in the Sefer Hilchos Shabbos) also rules that it is not Muktzah.
However, from the Igros Moshe (Orach Chaim 5:22, os 37), it
appears that snow is Muktzah.
C. If after taking care of one’s bodily functions, he realizes that by
cleaning himself blood will exude, HaRav Nissim Karelitz, Shlita, rules that
it is nevertheless permissible to clean oneself because it is a pesik
reisha d’lo neicha lei k’lal and it is Kavod HaBriyos to do
so(Orach Chaim 312 and Mishna Berurah Note 4).
D. According to the Igros Moshe (Orach Chaim 4:78), a closed
container (such as a milk or juice container which is opened by separating
the folds) may not be opened on Shabbos, as we do not view it as something
originally open which has been merely temporarily closed. This is due to
fact that the seal is done very well--and the original opening is no longer
existent.
E. One should be very careful not to hit another person (or an animal) in a
way that will cause a wound (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 316, Mishna Berurah
seif katan 30). The Ben Ish Chai rules that even hitting a friend in jest,
‘play fighting’ , or holding on to one’s or another’s flesh so that the skin
reddens is assur (ibid., Dirshu Note 55)
F. The Chazon Ish rules that one may remove a fly from food [together with a
portion of the food to avoid Borer issues] even though the fly is otherwise
Muktzah, because this is not considered to be tiltul muktzah, but
instead making the food edible to eat. One cannot, however, kill spiders or
other small insects on the pretense that they would be dangerous if they
went into someone’s food. Instead, one should cover the food (especially if
we do not know that they are, in fact, dangerous) (Shulchan Aruch Orach
Chaim 216; Mishna Berurah, seif katan 48).
G. If one owns a cat or dog, he can close the door in the room that there
are in, as they are considered to be domesticated and living in the home and
not subject to the Melacha of tzad--trapping (ibid, Mishna Berurah seif
katan 53 and Dirshu Note 101).
H. HaRav Elyashiv and HaRav Nissim Karelitz rule that one should not tie any
kind of knot in something which one does not intend to open again. For
instance, when one has finished with a garbage bag--the fact that he has
tied it up in any way and does not intend to open it again renders it a
Kesher Shel Kayama (ibid 317, Dirshu Note 4).
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THE KARBONOS AND YOUR AVODAH
TODAY:
The
Shulchan
Aruch itself
(Orach
Chayim 98:4)
lists the ways in which
our daily
Tefilah is compared to
bringing Karbanos in the
Beis HaMikdash. As the
Shulchan Aruch rules,
“Tefilah is in place
of a Korbon and therefore
one must be
careful that it is like a
Korbon:
·
In Kavannah, because improper thought invalidates a Korbon;
·
By standing when it is recited, as the Avodah was done standing;
·
In a certain place, as each Korbon
had a specific place for shechita and Matan Dam;
·
With nothing interrupting between him and the wall, as with a
Korbon where a Chatzizah could be Posul [Hakhel
Note: one may speak to his Rav regarding this
point, if his seat in Shul is not near the wall]; and
·
It is befitting that a person has nice, special clothes, just as there were
special Bigdei Kehunah for the Avodah.” Note : At the very least,
one should not enter to daven in the same attire as
if he were about to repair something around the house!
Hakhel Note: As we have
noted in the past, it is well known that deep knee bends are a recommended
method to improve one’s physical flexibility.
Chazal, however, never prescribed this exercise, especially during davening.
When we bend our knees and bow our
heads in Shemone Esrei, it is not intended as a physical exercise, but as a
mental exercise. As we bow, the sefer Shaarei Orah (p. 39)
writes, we should feel a pure and complete submission or servitude to
HaKodosh Boruch Hu. This feeling of submission can be assisted by thinking
about a specific benefit which HaKodosh Boruch Hu has bestowed upon
you, which no one else can provide.
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THE HALACHOS OF SECRETS: The following exceptional excerpt from Love Your Neighbor
(by Rabbi Zelig Pliskin, Shlita), is based upon tomorrow’s Parasha, and is
absolutely imperative in our everyday life.
“The Parasha actually begins “VaYikra
El Moshe…”--and He [Hashem] called to Moshe, and [Hashem] spoke to him
from the Ohel Moed saying (Vayikra 1:1). The Gemara (Yoma 4B) states from
the last word “saying” which denotes “say to others”, we learn that a person
has no right to repeat what someone tells him, unless given explicit
permission to do so. Following are basic laws pertaining to secrets:
1. If someone tells you
private information about his business or any personal matter, you are
forbidden to disclose it to others. Your doing so could cause the person
who confided in you financial loss, embarrassment, or other damage. Even if
the speaker did not request that the matter remain secret, you are not
allowed to repeat it. It is self-evident that the speaker does not want
such information to be divulged. However, if the person related information
concerning himself in the presence of three or more people and did not
request secrecy, you are permitted to relate it to others. Since the
speaker related it to a group of three or more people, we can assume that he
does not mind if the information will be known. If, however, someone tells
you about his wrongdoings, you are forbidden to spread that information to
belittle him, even if he related it in the presence of three. Although the
speaker has shown that he does not mind if others know about his
misbehavior, it is nonetheless forbidden for anyone to deliberately
publicize someone else’s actions to harm or embarrass him (Chofetz Chaim,
Chapter 2).
2. When someone reveals to
you seemingly harmless information in a manner which shows that he would
like it to be kept secret, you are forbidden to
repeat it to others even if he did not explicitly tell you to keep it
secret. In the Pasuk quoted above, Hashem related information to Moshe in
the Ohel Moed, and the Torah teaches that it was permissible for Moshe to
repeat the information only because of ‘Laymor’--Saying--i.e., because
Hashem gave him explicit permission to relate it to others (Be’er Mayim
Chaim 2:27).
3. The Chofetz Chaim
writes that it is a good habit never to repeat what people tell you unless
they give you permission to do so. In this way you will never relate
information that might cause harm (ibid.).
4. You
have no right to repeat someone’s secret just because you add the phrase
“Don’t repeat this to anyone else.” The person to whom you related the
secret might pass on the secret, also adding, “…and don’t repeat this to
anyone else.” In a very short time, the secret could become public
knowledge and cause harm or embarrassment to the person who confided in you
(Pele Yoetz, section on “Sod”).
5. Husbands and wives have
no right to tell each other secrets that someone told him or her in
confidence (ibid.).
Finally, a person should be
careful not to disclose his own secrets to others.
Before someone reveals a secret, he is the secret’s master. But once
someone reveals a secret, the secret is his master, for he lives in fear
that it will become known to others (Menoras Hamaor 2:4).”
Hakhel Note: Let us apply the
Parasha’s great teaching in our everyday lives--for
everyone’s benefit!
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3 Nissan
ZERIZUS!: One of the
hallmarks of Chodesh Nissan and Pesach is its call for Zerizus.
Making sure that one’s home is free of Chometz well in advance of the
holiday and making sure that one’s Matzah does not rise well in advance of
the time that it could--are key aspects of our Pesach preparations. Indeed,
and almost symbolically, it is fascinating that the Korban Pesach is brought
during the day--even though it can only be eaten later that night--and once
the time actually comes that we can consume it at nightfall, the short
Mitzvah window is only until dawn or even only Chatzos. It is no small
wonder then that the Halachic principle of Zerizin Makdimin LeMitzvos--those
who are Zerizim, those who view Mitzvos with energy and enthusiasm, make
sure to perform Mitzvos early is actually taught in Mesechta Pesachim
(4A)! Similarly, Chazal teach (in Pesachim 5:7) that although
the Torah mandates that the Korban Pesach is to be brought in the Bais
Hamikdash in Three Groups--during which time the Group recited the Hallel
and repeated it if need be until the entire Group had completed bringing
their Karbanos, the last of the Three Groups was always so small that
they would never even get up to ‘Ahavti’ (near the beginning of Hallel) and
all of the Karbanos were already completed! Yes, there were supposed to be
Three Groups--but the Torah was certainly not requiring YOU to be part of
that Third Group. We may additionally suggest that Chazal especially point
out that the Third Group ‘never reached Ahavti’--perhaps symbolizing
that their love to HaKadosh Baruch Hu may have been somewhat lacking as
demonstrated by their dilatory ways. We must try to use this Month to act
with a true Zerizus standard and yardstick--measuring our Mitzvos by the
zeal and dedication by which they are performed. We note that even though
we are permitted to eat Chometz on all other days of the year besides
Pesach--there is one Chometz Prohibition that does stay with us the
Entire Year. It is--Mitzvah Haba Leyodecha Al Tachmitzenah--A
Mitzvah that Hashem avails you of --don’t let it sit there--don’t let it
wait--don’t let it rise--perform it and immediately enjoy its everlasting
mark! Let us begin now with a rededication to prompt and timely Mitzvah
Performance--and taste the fresh, tasty and crisp Matzah all year round!
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HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to provide Halachos (currently, Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 431,
et al.) relating to Pesach in this especially spiritual period--less than
thirty (30) days before Pesach! The following are culled from the Notes of
the Dirshu Edition of the Mishna Berurah. Of course, one should in all
events consult with his own Rav or Posek pertaining to his particular facts
or circumstances:
A. The Steipeler would give treats to the children before the Seder
began, so the children would get excited and begin to ask questions as to
what was happening.
B. Before Kiddush, HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl, would especially
advise all those at the Seder that they should have in mind that the bracha
of Shehechiyanu covers all of the Mitzvos of the night.
C. The Mishna Berurah rules that when drinking each one of the four kosos,
one should drink a rov revi’is from the kos at one time.
D. The Mishna Berurah rules that if one does not have zero’ah for the
ke’arah, he can take any type of meat. If one does take the zero’ah, it
should have some meat on it, as it is zecher l’korban Pesach.
The Chayei Adam writes that it is a bizuy mitzvah to throw out the zero’ah;
instead, it should be eaten on the morning of the second day (or in Eretz
Yisrael, on the first day) as part of the Seudas Yom Tov.
E. The egg for the ke’arah need not be roasted; it can be cooked as well,
for it is zecher l’korban Chagigah--which could be roasted or cooked.
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TODAY!
Yesterday, the second day of Nissan, the Parah Aduma was burned under the
auspices of Moshe Rabbeinu and Aharon HaKohein. Today, the third day of
Nissan, is the first day that the unparalleled and purifying Parah Aduma
waters were first sprinkled on anyone ever! Accordingly, it is a day
that holds special tahara capability, individually and for our
nation, and we should be sure to use that capability by purifying
ourselves in some way. The Luach Davar B’Ito points out that if
there is anything that you can think of that could use some tahara--the
time is extremely auspicious, and the opportunity is very great. For some
on-point ideas, we refer you to Chapters 16 and 17 of the Sefer Mesilas
Yeshorim (which is on the topic of tahara). You may think that
if so few know about this, can it really be that effective? Please
consider, on the other hand, that when there are fewer customers purchasing,
there will be much greater selection, and much better pricing!
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MORE ABOUT TODAY!
We have already reached the third Nasi today--the Nasi of Zevulun, Eliav
ben Chailon. Although Zevulun was the tenth son of Yaakov Avinu, he
merited to bring the third Korban as Nasi. Chazal (Bamidbar Rabbah 13:17)
teach that the “tenth” son became the “third” son here--a 300% plus
prioritization--for one reason alone: It was because “Shechibav Es
HaTorah VeHirchiv Yodov Lefazer Es Mamono LeYissocher--his cherishing of
Torah caused him to open his hand wide and support his brother Yissocher in
his Torah studies.” With this wise and generous act, he fulfilled the words
of the wisest of all men, Shlomo Hamelech, who teaches in Mishlei (18:16), “Matan
Adam Yarchiv Lo, Velifnei Gedolim Yanchenu--A man’s gift will make room
for him, and it will lead him before the great.” In fact, Chazal (Bamidbar
Rabbah, ibid.) even conclude with respect to Zevulun that “Godol
Hame’aseh Yoser Min Ha’oseh--he was greater than Yissocher because, but
for him, Yissocher would not have been able to study, and would not have
produced 200 leaders of the Sanhedrin. It would appear to be especially
auspicious to write a check to a Kollel member or to a Kollel today.
Additional Note: The Navi teaches that ‘VeShaveha B’Tzedaka--those
who return will be redeemed with the giving of Tzedaka. In this season of
Geulah we should try to give whatever we can!
ACCORDINGLY, Please help Yad
Eliezer provide vouchers for thousands throughout
Eretz Yisrael. This year Yad Eliezer has a three for one
match for divorced women. ’For every dollar you give, we get
$3!’ There is also a 2 for 1 match for widows.
Avreichim have a 2 for 1 match (up to $300,000).
Please call Mrs. Tropper at
718-258-1580 with your generous [could be tripled!] contribution, or please go to
www.yadeliezer.org to donate to the Pesach
campaign and please add which matching funds you are
choosing in the comments section. .
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THIS MONTH ONLY!
The Ohr
HaChaim HaKadosh highlights for us how important the Torah considers
this month, the month of Nissan. The Torah uses the words (Shemos 12:2): “HaChodesh
HaZeh Lachem Rosh Chadashim”, and then continues: “Rishon Hu
Lachem LeChadshei HaShana”--this month to you is the first of the
months, the first of the months is it to you…. There is, the Ohr HaChaim
HaKadosh teaches, no redundancy here. The Torah is emphasizing that the
inherent powers of this month are so great that it was intentionally made
the first month of the year. It is up to us, then--Lachem--to
unleash these powers. If we begin to characterize our Pesach work as a ‘mitch’,
or a bother; if we express our frustration and cynicism at high prices, or
complain of other Pesach-related ‘hardships’, then we are defeating the
Lachem which the Torah reminds us about twice in the same Pasuk.
It is with a sense of joy and privilege that we should approach the next
eleven days leading us to Pesach--a Chag upon which our souls became
eternally free, even if our bodies may otherwise be bound in a
temporary (hopefully at this point, very temporary) Galus Edom. There is a
related point, as well. This year, there appear to be so many individuals
and organizations in need--many more than in previous years. There are
those who are making a yeoman’s effort to keep their Ma’os Chitim and
Tzedaka donations on par with previous years. Others, may, however, fall
short because of the financial position they are in. If one finds himself
in a better economic position this year than last, he should realize that
Hashem is empowering and directing him to give more than in
previous years--to help make up the slack of others. Especially in these
times in which we look to HaKadosh Baruch Hu’s Tzedaka and Chesed to save us
in Eretz Yisrael and the world over, we should view the extra Tzedaka
collectors and needy organizations as a means given to us by Hashem for us
to exercise Tzedaka and Chesed. Why? The Pasuk states: “VeNassan Lecha
Rachamim VeRichamcha VeHirbecha.” HaRav Pam, Z’tl, explains that this
Pasuk teaches that Hashem will give us opportunities for Rachamim and that
if we exercise them, He will, Middah K’Neged Middah shower Rachamim
upon us. Let us do what we can-- over the next week and a half--giving of
ourselves and of our money--with Simcha, and with trust! Let us rise to the
occasion!
=================================
2 Nissan
PERSONAL GEULAH:
Rabbi Yosef Eisen, Shlita, provides a touching insight from the Chiddushei
HaRim (the Gerrer Rebbe, Z’tl). Geulah need not take place only on a
communal level, but on an individual level, as well. The Yotzros that some
may have recited last Shabbos teach that Nissan is “HaChodesh Asher Yeshuos
Bo Makifos--the month in which salvations follow quickly one upon another”
(translation of Artscroll Siddur). The Chiddushei HaRim, however, teaches
that the word “Makifos” is also very much related to the word “hakafa”--an
extension of credit (see, for example, Avos 3:20, “Vehachenvani Makif--and
the Merchant [Hashem] extends credit.” The month of Nissan is an auspicious
time during which we can ask Hashem for personal Yeshuos--on credit. Even
if we have not gotten there yet--we can express our beginning intention to
do better and ask Hashem for the “merchandise” we need now. It is market
day, if you will, and the Merchant is unbelievably making it available on
credit! We have ahead a month that is infused with so much potential and
good for us. Let us begin with the beginnings of an act of Teshuva--whether
it be coming to Shul on time, being more careful with Brachos, refraining
from Ona’as Devorim to family and “close” friends, or anything else that you
know you have to get to--and then ask Hashem for His unparalleled and
incomparable credit on your continued future actions. May you be zoche to a
marvelous credit rating in this very special month--and may you speedily
receive the Yeshua that you seek. Most certainly you have the Chiddushei
HaRim to back you up!
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HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially
spiritual period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach! Of course, one
should in all events consult with his own Rav or Posek pertaining to his
particular facts or circumstances:
A. The Mishna Berurah defines heseibah as one’s head leaning to the
left while seated, with a pillow placed underneath the head. HaRav
Elyashiv, Z’tl, explains that in addition to one’s head, most of one’s body
should be leaning as well. However, the leaning should not be to the extent
that one feels uncomfortable in the position he is in. The Ohr LeTzion
writes that the position is one somewhere between lying and sitting--at
least at a 45 degree angle. Additionally, one must be leaning on
something--if he is leaning in the air, HaRav Elyashiv rules that this is
not heseibah.
B. The Mishna Berurah writes that the Haggadah itself is not recited
b’heseibah, but instead B’Eimah U’V’Yirah--in awe. Likewise,
HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl, rules that the brachos over the wine and
the Matzah should not be recited b’heseibah--as a bracha requires awe
as well.
C. Although it is brought that the Yom Tov meal at the Seder be
eaten b’heseibah (see Mishna Berurah, Orach Chaim 472, seif katan
23), the Chazon Ish, Z’tl, the Steipeler, Z’tl, and HaRav Shlomo Zalmen
Auerbach ruled that if one feels uncomfortable eating b’heseibah, he
need not do so, and they in fact did not do so.
D. In a similar vein, HaRav Elyashiv rules that the drinking of wine at the
Seder to demonstrate cheirus should not be overbearing--and that one
could use eitzos to make the drinking more pleasant--for instance
adding grape juice to some extent--as long as the taste of the wine is still
felt, so that derech cheirus remains. The Chazon Ish, the Brisker
Rav, Z’tl, the Chebiner Rav, Z’tl and HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, all rule
that one can be yotzei cheirus with grape juice. HaRav Moshe
Feinstein, Z’tl and Rav Elyashiv require wine. One who follows the latter
p’sak should consult with his Rav or Posek in the event of any health or
other issue regarding the intake of wine.
--------------------------------------
THE SECOND NASI: The
Nasi whose portion we read today is Nesanel Ben Tzu’ar, the Nasi of Shevet
Yissocher. The Luach Davar B’Ito writes that the symbol of the
Shevet Yissocher is the study of Torah. Accordingly, the Luach writes
that one should especially daven today for hatzlacha in Torah
studies, and for Hashem to remove the impediments (including the Yetzer
Hara’s guile) which distract him in any way from Torah study.
--------------------------------------------
THE
MAZEL OF NISSAN!
The Mazel for the month of Nissan is a ram. The Egyptians, who were the
most professional of astrologers, worshipped this particular Mazel, because
it is the first, the b’chor, of all of the Mazelos. Accordingly, they
believed they could draw the strength and power from this Mazel which was
necessary for them to rule the world.
Hashem
therefore specifically took B’nei Yisrael out of Egypt during the height of
this Mazel’s governance--on the 15th day--in the middle of
Nissan. Moreover, the lamb (ram) which was the earthly symbol of this Mazel,
was restrained by being tied to bedposts--and then even shechted during the
Mazel’s very governance. Had B’nei Yisrael been taken out in any other
month, the Mitzri’im could have claimed that its Mazel was simply not ruling
that month, but had it been…
What
is Mazel? HaRav Chaim Friedlander Z’tl (Sifsei Chaim 2:268) explains
that it is the method of controlling the creation from heaven to earth,
which is wholly independent of man’s conduct (Mazel is connected with the
word “Nozel”--to flow from heaven to earth). The Egyptians were right--Mazelos
were effective--until Rosh Chodesh Nissan--the day upon which Hashem taught
us that WE, B’nei Yisrael, would now supersede and govern over all creation
by our actions. As the Posuk states: “This month is TO YOU the first
month.” Hashem, in the first mitzvah given to K’lal Yisrael as a people,
teaches them that their actions will simply override all Mazelos. As Rav
Friedlander explains, the term “Ain Mazel L’Yisrael” (Shabbos 156A) means
that the Mazelos have no power over us--just the opposite, our actions now
control the creation.
This
obviously puts us in a very responsible position. On that first day of
Nissan in the year 2448, we lost the status of commoners, and, in effect,
became ranking high officers, because all of our actions, even the smaller
ones, impact the world in its entirety.
In
fact, our actions are so profound, that we can bring the Shechina into this
world by building a Mishkan, and we can, Chas V’Shalom, drive the Shechina
away with seemingly something as trivial as the Sinas Chinam--the senseless
hatred--shown in the Kamtza-Bar Kamtza incident.
So
what are we to do--is this simply teaching us about “Jewish guilt”? No,
quite to the contrary. Does a King’s son say, “Forget this, I would rather
carry water”?? Or does a Colonel say, “I’d rather be on all-night guard
duty??” No, or at least, they should not. Instead, they will recognize the
importance of their position and learn how to help themselves--and the many
others whose lives they now affect. How? By taking instruction from the
King, and by learning from the Generals, what to do and how to do it.
Indeed, Rav Chaim Voloziner Z’TL in the Nefesh HaChaim (Sha’ar 1,
Chapter 4) teaches that the acts of sacrilege of Titus HaRasha in the Holy
of Holies were less than meaningless trifle and had no bearing on this
world--but our smallest deeds shake the cosmos.
As we
proceed with our Pesach preparations, where we spend our valuable time
searching for even crumbs of Chometz, scrubbing walls and turning pockets
inside out, when some men become homemakers--kneading dough, baking matzos,
or perhaps grinding maror, where world class athletes would envy women’s
adrenalin levels, when we spend so much money on potatoes and eggs and
figuring out different ways to prepare them, we should keep in mind--or
least when the going gets rough, remind ourselves--when performing any and
all of our actions that we are the star colonels, we are sons of the
King--whatever we do is truly very, very important and how we do it impacts
not only on our family, friends or neighbors, but actually governs the world
and all of its hosts.
----------------------------------------------------------
START TODAY!:
In
the Haggada, we recite “Yachol Mai’Rosh Chodesh…--I might think [that the
Mitzvah of relating the story of our Exodus from Egypt could be performed]
from Rosh Chodesh Nissan and on.” Why would I think this way? After all
did not the Exodus actually take place on the fifteenth day of Nissan, which
is exactly the first day of Pesach--why would I think the Mitzvah could be
performed earlier? The Netziv (in the Chumash Ha’Amek Dovor, Shemos
34:18) writes, in fact, that the entire month is mesugal, is especially
opportune, to instill within us true principles of Emuna and Avodas Hashem.
One need not and should not wait until the last moment of the Seder Night to
stock up on all of the foundations of our faith. The Vilna Gaon and the
Maaseh Nissim Hagaddah teach that the Geulah from Egypt was called
“Chairus Olam--eternal freedom”--because the Geulah of Egypt was the root
of, and source for, all future Redemptions. When one does Teshuva, he must
always look back to the source, to the beginnings, of the avaira in order to
uproot and destroy his connection to it. Similarly, when yearning for our
own final Geulah, we must study and review how our initial Geulah came about
and what happened in order to properly connect to it. This being the case,
one can never learn enough of the Hagaddah, its discussions and its
teachings. While intellectually one may know the ten maakos by heart
(including details from the Medrashim), shoot off the four reasons that we
were redeemed, or list in perfect chronological order the Mitzvos we have on
the Seder night, this is simply not enough. Even if we “know it all,” we
must come back year after year to the same concepts, the same lessons, and
even to the same words, so that we continue to emotionally internalize
Geulah through continuously developing a greater spirit of faith and belief
in Hashem within us (See Michtav M’Eliyahu, Volume 4, Page 249). The
night of the Seder, with the uplifting four kosos, the Matzoh, the
paradoxical Korech, the amazing Hagaddah, and the unrestrained Hallel, is
given to us by Hashem to continuously expand this spirit of Cheirus Olam
within us!
=================================
1 Nissan
LET
US JOIN TOGETHER AS A GROUP AND REACH OUR GOAL!
The Chayei Adam (Chapter 68) teaches that a Mitzvah performed by an
individual is absolutely incomparable to a Mitzvah performed by a group
together--the Chofetz Chaim similarly writes that when one contributes to a
Gemach Fund he has a Chelek in each and every loan given--for EACH AND EVERY
CONTRIBUTION IS ESSENTIAL TO THE GEMACH’S EXISTENCE AND ITS ABILITY TO MAKE
THE NEXT LOAN!
Please help Yad Eliezer provide vouchers for thousands throughout Eretz
Yisrael. This year we have a three for one match for divorced women. For
every dollar you give, we get $3! We have a 2 for 1 match for widows.
Avreichim have a 2 for 1 match (up to $300,000). Please call Mrs. Tropper
at
718-258-1580 with your generous [could
be tripled!] contribution, or please go to
www.yadeliezer.org to donate to the
Pesach campaign and please add which matching funds you are choosing in the
comments section.
WE REALLY NEED YOU AS A CHAVER OF OUR GROUP--PLEASE JOIN IN!
Additional Note One: The Chofetz Chaim writes that one who benefits a
Talmid Chochom from his assets is considered as if he is Misdabeik
BeShechina--and fulfills the Pasuk of “VeAtem Hadveikim BaHashem
Elokeichem Chaim Kulchem HaYom(!)”. The Chofetz Chaim also writes that
one who supports those who study Torah merits that he too will know the
Torah that was studied, even if he was ignorant of these Torah topics in
this world. The Chofetz Chaim adds that this is pashut, for Gan Eden
is based on the Ruchniyus of Torah--and when one is zoche to Gan Eden
because of his support, he must be able to benefit from Gan Eden--through
the Ruchniyus HaTorah that he has gained!
Additional Note Two: The Dirshu Edition of the Mishna Berurah provides the
following points and pointers relating to Ma’os Chittim (Shulchan Aruch,
Orach Chaim 429):
A.
HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl, rules that one can utilize his
ma’aser money for Ma’os Chittim, and that this is not considered to be
paying one’s debts with ma’aser money. HaRav Nissim Karelitz,
Shlita, rules that it is a hiddur in the Mitzvah if one provides one in need
not only with money for matzos, but for his other needs of the Holiday. In
a similar vein, HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach rules that Gabbaim who collect
for Ma’os Chittim can use the money not only for all food needs--but for
clothing for the Holiday as well.
B.
The Mishnas Ya’avetz (Orach Chaim 7) rules that if one does not have enough
funds of his own, he should borrow money in order to give Ma’os
Chittim--even though he is otherwise exempt from giving Tzedakah. The
reason for this is that in addition to Tzedakah, one fulfills a separate
Mitzvah of Simchas Yom Tov--causing others to rejoice on Yom Tov. As the
Rambam (Hilchos Yom Tov 6:17-18) emphatically rules: one who does not give
to the destitute and is mesameiach his family does not fulfill the
Mitzvah of Simchas Yom Tov--but instead “fulfills the Simcha of his
stomach”. Because the Mitzvah of giving Ma’os Chittim is inextricably bound
to Simchas Yom Tov, continues the Mishnas Ya’avetz, the Shulchan Aruch
records it not in Hilchos Tzedakah--but in Hilchos Pesach itself!
--------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to present pertinent rulings of HaRav Elyashiv,
Z’tl, relating to Hilchos Pesach, as excerpted from the
monumental Sefer Ashrei HaIsh (Orach Chaim, Volume III). Of
course, one must consult with his own Rav or Posek for a final p’sak as to
how he should conduct himself in a specific situation:
PART 2
1. One
should pay for his Leil Seder Matzos before Yom Tov, so that it is legally
his, both MiD’Oraysah and MiD’Rabanan.
2. On
Shabbos, one should not remove a piece of Matzah which is possibly
Kefulah, because of the Issur of Borer. One must instead remove the
possible Kefulah together with some Kosher Matzah. If the Matzah is
actually (Mitsad HaDin) Kefulah, then it is Muktzah on Pesach
and on Shabbos as well.
3.
LeChatchila, men and women should use wine for the four Kosos. However, one
may dilute the wine with grape juice, provided that the taste of alcohol
significantly remains. For children, one can be maikil and give them
grape juice. It is better for an adult to drink a smaller shiur of wine
than a large shiur of grape juice. If one is repulsed by wine and cannot
drink it, he is patur from drinking it, as it is ma’us to
him. He should try to mix wine and grape juice in a manner in which the
wine is still tasted. If he cannot tolerate this, he can drink grape juice.
It is also better to drink an entire smaller cup than the majority of a
larger cup.
4.
Heseibah
requires Derech Cheirus--which means in a royal and enjoyable manner,
as kings eat. This includes a person not bending his body towards the food,
but bringing the food to the body. Heseibah involves leaning most of
one’s body and one’s head to the left side, and leaning on the arm rest or a
pillow. One should feel comfortable as royalty would feel. If one leans
without actually leaning on something, this is not considered Heseibah.
[Hakhel Note: If one is unsure how to perform Heseibah, he should
consult with his Rav or Posek.]
5. Although
before performing a Mitzvah, one should state that he is about to perform
it, one should not say “Hineni Muchan U’Mezuman LeKayeim Mitzvas Asei”,
if in fact it is a Mitzvah DeRabanan. HaRav Elyashiv himself recited “Hineni
Muchan U’Mezuman LeKayeim…”, but did not say the “LeSheim Yichud….”
6. The
Sefer Chayei Adam strongly objects to the partition which separates
the Matzos in a Matzah cover. The places that are noheig like the
Chayei Adam should keep their Minhag.
7. The
Yesod of Sippur Yetzias Mitzrayim is to relate the story--it is not
Me’akev for it to be to a son. This is why a son does not necessarily
have to come to his father for the Seder. If a child is only three years
old or so, and could only understand this story on a kindergarten level, the
father should relate it to the child on that level. There is no inyan,
however, for the three year old to relate the story to the father based upon
what he knows from kindergarten.
8. One
should throw the wine from his cup at the designated points in the Haggadah
with his Etzbah (pointer finger as opposed to pinky), because the
Pasuk says “Etzbah Elokim He”.
9. If one
is in the midst of eating Matzah, he can answer “Amen” to another’s
bracha if he has swallowed a bit.
--------------------------------------
A
REMARKABLE DAY:
Today
is the first day of Nissan, one of the most renowned days in the Torah, as
we read last week, Hashem taught Moshe Rabbeinu on this day--“This month is
the first month of the year…” (Shemos 12:2).
The
Gemara (Shabbos 87B) teaches that Rosh Chodesh Nissan took “Eser
Ataros”--ten separate and distinct crowns--for ten unique events that
happened on this day, which include the first day of the Avodah--the
complete service in the Mishkan, with Aharon and his descendants to serve
everlastingly as Kohanim Gedolim and Kohanim. It was also the first day
ever of the Shechina descending into the Mishkan, and of fire coming from
Heaven to consume the Karbanos.
Additionally, not one or two, but eight different parashios of the Torah
were taught to K’lal Yisrael on this day (See Gittin 60A).
The
Navi in Yechezkel (45:18) teaches that on THIS DAY the “Miluim”--the
consecration of the THIRD BAIS HAMIKDASH will commence. Accordingly, the
Siddur Bais Yaakov writes that all who are “Mitzapim L’Yeshua”--await
the Redemption--should recite the Pesukim related to the dedication of the
Third Beis HaMikdash in Yechezkel, 43:18-27 and 45:18-20.
Indeed, the first 12 days of Nissan, the days of the dedication offerings of
the Nesi’im (the princes of the tribes) in the Mishkan, are so powerful that
Reb Menachem Mendel of Rimanov taught that in each of these days are
inherent an entire month of the year. With true clarity of vision, on each
of these 12 days, one can understand what the entire corresponding month
will be like. The first day of Nissan provides the clarity for the entire
month of Nissan, the time of Redemption.
Today’s Nasi, i.e., the first one to bring Karbonos in the Mishkan, was
Nachshon ben Aminadov, who was the same Nasi who jumped into the stormy sea
for Geulah. Perhaps the lesson for today is not to be ashamed or
hesitant--but to jump in--to give it all that we have, to prepare for--and
to bring--the Geulah!
Today
is also the first day we can recite the Birchas Ha’Ilanos, upon seeing a
blossoming fruit tree (See Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chayim 226 for further
details on the proper performance of this Mitzvah). One can show his/her
zerizus and chavivus--alacrity and dearness--for this once-a-year Brocha by
reciting it as early in the month as possible.
Finally, Rosh Chodesh Nissan is the Rosh Hashana for Shekalim (Rosh Hashana
7A)--the day **NEW** contributions were **REQUIRED** to be used to purchase
the daily sacrifices for the Bais Hamikdash (no matter how full the Temple
treasury already was). This teaches us that today is the day to start
again, with a fresh and new commitment, to utilize the coming days to
personally spring and blossom.
--------------------------------------
BE SMART!
Now that Nissan is upon us, we must be smart enough to use the Month of
Geulah--for that purpose. Not only is Nissan proven from the past, Chazal
even teach that “U’BeNissan Asidin LiGa’el--in Nissan we will be redeemed.”
Indeed, the Yotzros for Parashas HaChodesh make it perfectly clear “Rusham
BeChol Dor Shomur Hu LeRochev Al HaChamor--It is reserved **in every
generation** for the one who will come riding on the donkey.” Far be it
from us to allow the Yetzer Hora to razzle, dazzle and frazzle us over the
next few weeks when we can accomplish so much towards our own Geulah!
Perhaps we can start daily with the Tefilah Al HaGeulah from now until
Pesach--which we once again provide by the following in Hebrew here
http://tinyurl.com/2u3l4e and in
English here
http://tinyurl.com/3ybyxq. May we also
suggest that when reciting ViL’Yrushalayim Ircha in Shemone Esrei that you
picture Yerushalayim well--with the millions of people that were there in
the past and will be there again celebrating Pesach--visualizing the
[including your] Seder on the rooftops, the palpable Ruach Hakodesh of the
Tzaddikim, the Kohanim working in beautiful harmony, and the incredible
Miracles of the Mikdash. Think about the unadulterated Simchas Yom Tov (not
needing Great Adventures to make it happen), and of the harmony, health and
purity of spirit that will abound. All of this may be only a prayer--your
prayer--away!
=================================
29 Adar
TODAY--FOR ALL:
We provide a Tefillah Al HaParnassah Mimamon Kasher, which the
Shelah HaKadosh writes should be recited before Rosh Chodesh Nissan.
http://www.hakhel.info/archivesPublicService/TefillaAlHaParnassa.pdf
Hakhel Note: Especially Yom Kippur Koton--today,
which serves as a portal from the last month of the year to the first--
Nissan--we should include a special level of Teshuva and Tefillah into our
day!
----------------------------------------------------------
TOMORROW FOR WOMEN!
Rosh Chodesh Nissan is very, very
special—especially for women. The Daas Zekainim MiBaalei Tosfos (Shemos
35:24) writes that the reason women were given Rosh Chodesh as a special day
for them (to treat it as a Yom Tov-- not to do certain work—see Shulchan
Aruch, Orach Chaim 417) is because they were ‘semaichos u’zehiros’—happy
and careful –to donate their jewelry to the Mishkan, whereas their jewelry
had to be taken from them against their will for the Eigel HaZahav. Tosfos
notes that the effect of their donations was noticed on this Rosh Chodesh--Rosh
Chodesh Nissan—when the Mishkan was established, and that all of the other
Rosh Chodoshim of the year are given to women as a Yom Tov because of Rosh
Chodesh Nissan. So, especially this coming Rosh Chodesh—plan on making it a
special day!
----------------------------------------------------------
TOMORROW FOR ALL:
Tomorrow is one of the most renowned days in the Torah, as we leined on
Shabbos, Hashem taught Moshe Rabbeinu that on this day-- “HaChodesh
HaZeh Lochem Rosh Chadoshim--this month is the first month to you of the
year…” (Shemos 12:2).
The Gemara (Shabbos 87B) teaches that Rosh
Chodesh Nissan took “Eser Ataros”--ten separate and distinct
crowns--for ten unique events that happened on this day, which include the
first day of the Avodah--the complete service in the Mishkan, with Aharon
and his descendants to serve everlastingly as Kohanim Gedolim and Kohanim.
It was also the first day ever of the Shechina descending into the Mishkan,
and of fire coming from Heaven to consume the Karbanos.
Additionally, not one or two, but eight
different Parashios of the Torah were taught to K’lal Yisrael on this
specific day (See Gittin 60A).
The Navi in Yechezkel (45:18) teaches that on
ROSH CHODESH NISSAN the “Miluim”--the consecration of the THIRD BAIS
HAMIKDASH will commence. Accordingly, the Siddur Bais Yaakov writes
that all who are “Metzapim L’Yeshua”--await the Redemption--should
recite the Pesukim related to the dedication of the Third Beis HaMikdash in
Yechezkel, 43:18-27 and 45:18-20.
Indeed, the first 12 days of Nissan, the days
of the dedication offerings of the Nesi’im in the Mishkan, are so powerful
that Reb Menachem Mendel of Rimanov taught that in each of these days are
inherent an entire month of the year. With true clarity of vision, on each
of these 12 days, one can understand what the entire corresponding month
will be like. The first day of Nissan provides the clarity for the entire
month of Nissan, the time of redemption.
Tomorrow’s Nasi, i.e., the first one to bring
Karbonos in the Mishkan, was Nachshon ben Aminadov, who was the same Nasi
who jumped into the stormy sea for Geulah. Perhaps the lesson is not to be
ashamed or hesitant--but to jump in--to give it all that we have, to prepare
for--and to bring--the Geulah!
Finally, Rosh Chodesh Nissan is the Rosh
Hashana for Shekalim (Rosh Hashana 7A)--commencing on this day new
contributions were required to be used to purchase the daily
sacrifices for the Bais Hamikdash (no matter how full the Temple treasury
already was). This teaches us that Rosh Chodesh is the day to start again,
with a fresh and new commitment, to utilize the coming days to personally
spring and blossom. Let us feel the Special Time in the air--and improve
and elevate our actions accordingly. The opportunity is oh so blatant--grab
on and enjoy!
Hakhel Note: We were alerted to Chazal
(Shabbos 147B) who teach that because he spent some time away from his
regular Torah studies, Rebbi Elazar Ben Arach, the great student of Rabban
Yochanan Ben Zakkai, was unable to read “HaChodesh Hazeh Lachem” (the
beginning of Parashas HaChodesh) properly--and instead read it as “Hachreish
Hayah Libam” (their heart was deafened). The lesson to us is clear:
For the next two weeks, our Torah study will be placed at a great test--we
will be tempted on many occasions to forgo or curtail our regular Keviyus
Ittim LaTorah, our regular Torah accomplishments, our regular chavrusos.
Chazal are teaching us that we must remember that it is HaChodesh Hazeh
Lachem--a very special month coming up--but marked by a dedicated
commitment and resilience to Torah study in the face of difficulties and
challenges. We have to prove that for us--we want to make it HaChodesh
Hazeh Lachem! If one needs guidance, he should speak to his Rav or
Posek!
--------------------------------------
BITACHON:
As we proceed through this great
Bitachon-filled period of Bein Purim L’Pesach, we provide the following
important two (2) thoughts from the Ohr Avigdor Sha’ar HaBitachon
(a translation and commentary on Sha’ar HaBitachon by Rabbi Avigdor Miller,
Z’tl):
A. It is important to notice that the man
with bitachon does not live any differently from the man without bitachon.
They are both working at their jobs. Both people are sitting at their desks
and both are making a living, or trying to make a living. So superficially,
you see no difference between them. The only difference is in their minds.
Of course, if you know them well you will know that one of the two men is
always cheerful and the other is not. He replaces a smiling face with a
scowling face. The reason for that is the fundamental difference in attitude
between the two men.
B. If one is a tailor, he is serving the
world by supplying its people with clothing; that is what Hashem wants. If
he is a grocer or a baker, he is supplying the world with food. If he is in
real estate, he is supplying people with apartments and homes. He is doing
all this because Hashem commanded him to do it. So whatever he is doing for
his livelihood, he should consider it a service of Hashem and not because he
relies on his work to support him or help him. Hashem is the One who gives
him all of the help that he needs, but he is doing things out of service to
Hashem.
--------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH:
We once again present pertinent rulings of HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl,
relating to Hilchos Pesach, as excerpted from the monumental Sefer
Ashrei HaIsh (Orach Chaim, Volume III). One should consult his
Rav or Posek for a final P’sak in all areas:
PART 1
1. It is best to recite the Birkas
Ha’Ilanos over a minimum of two trees, as the bracha itself refers to ‘Ilanos’
in the plural. The bracha may be recited on Shabbos and on Yom Tov.
2. Ma’os Chittim may be given from
Ma’aser money; however, at least a small amount should not be from Ma’aser
funds.
3. When a Jewish store sells its Chometz,
and then continues to sell Chometz on Pesach it is a chucha u’telula.
Accordingly, one should not purchase from a store like this after Pesach, as
it may be Chometz Sheavar Alav HaPesach. It is better to purchase
pre-Pesach Chometz from a store which sold its Chometz properly before
Pesach, than to rely on the other store selling Chometz from ‘after Pesach’.
4. If one lives in a building in which
the tenants or unit owners are not interested in selling the Chometz in the
common areas, one should be mafkir his Chelek in the common areas
before the time of Issur Chometz sets in. [Hakhel Note: One should consult
with his Rav as to how one is mafkir.]
5. According to the Ikar HaDin,
one need not check his Seforim before Pesach, as any miniscule crumbs would
be batel. However, a Sefer which was not cleaned page by page,
should not in any event be placed on the table, for a crumb from the Sefer
may fall on the food, and all of the food would become assur, as the
Chometz is not batel in the food.
6. If one checks his pockets well by
hand, he need not check them by candle light.
7. On Erev Pesach, one should
LeChatchila complete laundering, pressing, sewing, haircutting, nail
cutting, and shoe shining before Chatzos. However, if one was not able to
do so, he may still cut his nails and shine his shoes after Chatzos, but a
hair cut after Chatzos may only be performed by a non-Jew.
8. One can measure a Revi’is, a
Kezayis and a Kebeitzah on Yom Tov, for the shiur of the four
Kosos, Matzah and Maror, but one may not weigh the Matzos in this regard.
9. The fact that one eats food in a
Kittel on the Leil HaSeder does not derogate the Kittel’s status,
for the Leil HaSeder is a Layla Shel Mitzvah. Accordingly, one may
not enter the restroom wearing a Kittel.
10. One should prepare the Kezaiysim
of Matzah for all participants in plastic bags before Yom Tov, so when it
comes time to partake of the Matzah, there is no significant lapse between
the bracha and the eating of the Matzah. [Hakhel Note: The same would seem
to apply for Maror.]
=================================
26 Adar
BRACHOS ALERT!
The OU, which now gives the Hashgacha on Post Honeycomb cereal, has advised
the appropriate bracha combination is Borei Minei Mezonos and Borei Nefashos.
Please spread the word!
------------------------------------------------
GETTING READY FOR RAIN!
One of the most outstanding English Seforim published in the last few years
is undoubtedly Let There Be Rain: A Lesson a
Day on Making Gratitude a Part of Our Lives,
by Rabbi Shimon Finkelman
and Rabbi Zechariah Wallerstein. The Sefer contains 189 daily lessons--and
its new cycle will begin on Rosh Chodesh Nissan. We urge you to purchase
this Sefer and begin the cycle on Rosh Chodesh Nissan, as in a few short
moments a day, the Sefer can make a monumental impact on the way you think
and on the way that you look at other people. For those who are
completing the first cycle of the year, the second cycle will certainly help
imprint the lessons upon one’s heart and being!
--------------------------------------------------
FROM THE MIDRASH TANCHUMA:
In the introduction to his Sefer
Bereisah D’Meleches HaMishkan, HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, brings
a powerful Midrash Tanchuma (Parashas Tzav 14): “HaKadosh Baruch Hu
instructs K’lal Yisrael--learning in the Torah about the Mishkan is like
building it--tell K’lal Yisrael to read in the Torah about the Tzuras
HaBayis, and in reward for learning, I will consider it as if they were
actually involved in the building of the Bayis itself[!]” (Divrei Siach)
--------------------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially
spiritual period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach!
Of course, one should in all events consult with his own Rav or Posek
pertaining to his particular facts or circumstances:
A. In
the Nusach of Bitul Chometz, we recite the words “Debiyartei U’delah
Biyartei--which I have burned/destroyed and which I have not
burned/destroyed.” If it has been destroyed--why does one need to nullify
it? There are many reasons: (i) perhaps the subject Chometz has not been
completely burned or destroyed; (ii) one intends with these words to include
Chometz upon which something has fallen and which one does not intend to
uncover, but still requires bitul; and (iii) the words also cover
Chometz which has been removed by being sold to a non-Jew, and the
possibility exists that the sale did not properly take place.
B.
The following is from the Sefer Otzros HaTorah on the Haggadah
Shel Pesach: All of the chumros and dikdukim that we
undertake in cleaning our homes and utensils for Pesach are certainly
me’orer great zechuyos for K’lal Yisrael, and are mevatel [as in
bitul Chometz!] the machshavos ra’os of our enemies against
us. It is said that when HaRav Levi Yitzchak of Berditchov would see women
cleaning and preparing their homes, rinsing, washing, scrubbing and the like
before Pesach, he recited the following: “Yehi Ratzon She’eilu HaMalochim
HaYotzim Meima’asei Yedeihen Ya’alu Lifnei Kisei Kevodecha VeYamlitzu Tov
Ba’adeinu--may this be an Eis Ratzon before You, Hashem, and may
the Malochim that are created by their holy activities come before Your Holy
Throne and serve as melitzei tov for all of K’lal Yisrael.” Let us
not lose sight of, and remember, that all of our holy activities in these
days are creating Malochim Kedoshim! Rebbi Levi Yitzchak recited a Yehi
Ratzon--so can we!
C. On Erev Pesach, the Chasam Sofer, Z’tl, would himself prepare the Seder
table with a zriyzus nifla’ah and simcha atzumah. The Michtav
Sofer, based upon this, writes that every Yirei Shomayim should begin to set
the Seder table after Chatzos on Erev Pesach, and make sure that everyone’s
kos has a proper shiur and is fit for use
(Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 431, et al.).
--------------------------------------------------
WE CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
A. Chazal (Shabbos 118B) teach “If Yisrael would observe two Shabbosos
according to Halacha, they would be redeemed immediately.” In fact, the
Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 25:16), reduces this guarantee to the proper
observance of just one Shabbos.
Perhaps we can start the process in our own small way with the following
suggestion:
In this week’s Parasha (Shemos 35:3), the Torah requires “Do not kindle a
fire wherever you dwell on the day of Shabbos.” Why is fire singled out as
one of the 39 forbidden activities on Shabbos? There is a disagreement
between Rebbi Nosson and Rebbi Yosi on this very point in the Gemara (Shabbos
70A). The Sheloh HaKadosh and the Akeida write that the “fire” singled out
on Shabbos also refers to the fire of anger and of raised voices in the
home, of anger, disagreement and machlokes, any and all of which are the
antithesis of the Shalom Bayis to be brought into the home through the Neiros
Shabbos.
As in previous years, we therefore urge that THIS SHABBOS--in which the
Parasha specifically instructs us not to “kindle fire in our dwelling
places”--each one of us, bli neder, now accepts upon himself not to
get upset and angry, not to raise his voice, and, instead, to override his
sensitivity, his legitimate feelings and everything else in the way, to
ensure that the Shabbos is and remains peaceful--with the only fire being
relegated to the area under the blech. To some, or perhaps many, of us,
this may take a yeoman’s effort, but we will be taking an important step
towards that “just one Shabbos” we so urgently and desperately require.
NOTE: If we can achieve the seemingly impossible, and extend this “fire
prohibition” to the hour before Shabbos, we will have additionally
accomplished a level of “Tosefes Shabbos”--adding on to the Shabbos--perhaps
never before imaginable.
ADDITIONAL NOTE: Perhaps we can take our Shabbos success with us, and work
on the Middah of ‘not kindling a fire’ through the coming week!
B. HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, in the Sefer Ta’amah Dikrah brings
the Midrash (Yalkut Shimoni 408) at the outset of this week’s Parasha, which
teaches that on Shabbos we should gather together the multitudes and teach
them the Halachos of Shabbos. Why is it, HaRav Chaim asks, that this is
particularly true of Hilchos Shabbos? HaRav Chaim answers that one who is
c’v mechalel Shabbos in public is treated l’halacha like an
akum--and it is as if he publicly proclaims c’v that Hashem did
not create the world. Conversely, then, when we gather together as a tzibbur
to study the Halachos of Shabbos--we are publicly proclaiming that Hashem
created the world! Hakhel Note One: Learning Hilchos Shabbos, then…is
Zecher Lema’aseh Bereishis! Hakhel Note Two: A Mechaneich asked HaRav
Kanievsky what he should learn on Shabbos if he has an hour of free
time--Gemara or Mishnayos? HaRav Kanievsky responded--Mishna
Berurah--Hilchos Shabbos. Likewise, for one who had mistakenly turned on the
light on Shabbos, he advised him to review Hilchos Shabbos as a tikun.
(Divrei Siach)
C. The Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (75:2), relating to Neiros Shabbos
rules as follows: “The candles should be long so that they burn until after
the meal. One should seek to purchase fine candles. Rav Huna teaches (Shabbos
23B): A person who is accustomed to lighting Neiros Yafos--attractive
Shabbos candles--will merit sons who will be Torah scholars. The Pasuk (Mishlei
6:23) indeed states: “Ki Ner Mitzvah, VeTorah Ohr--for a Mitzvah is a
candle, and Torah light”--i.e., the candle of Mitzvah will bring about the
light of Torah.”
D. A family that needed Yeshuos (shidduchim for their children and
offspring for their children who were married) asked HaRav Kanievsky what
they should strengthen themselves in. He responded that they should take in
Shabbos earlier then they previously did. (Divrei Siach)
--------------------------------------------------
POINTS AND POINTERS ON THIS WEEK’S PARASHIYOS:
A. Reminder About the Question of the Week: Last week’s Parasha ends
with the radiance of Moshe Rabbeinu’s face being so great, that he had to
put a mask on it--and this week’s Parasha begins with the Mitzvah of
Shabbos--what is the connection between these two Parashios?
B. The Torah teaches that the Badim, the staves, were placed into the Aron
for a particular purpose--”Lasais Es HaAron--to carry the Aron”
(Shemos 37:5). Chazal (Sotah 35B) teach, however, that in fact the Aron was
not carried by its bearers, but instead actually carried those very same
apparent bearers. HaRav Nosson Adler, Z’tl, finds that the lesson is
clear--those who support Talmidei Chachomim may appear to be the
supporters--but are in fact and indeed--actually supported by those
who study. Hakhel Note: There is an Olam Hazeh and Olam Haba way to look
at what is actually taking place...since Olam Haba is much, much
longer and indeed everlasting --one should very much adapt the long-term
view! Let us keep this in mind every time that we have the opportunity to
in any manner honor or ‘support’ one who is studying Torah full time!
C. In
the Parasha we find the term Lev mentioned in various ways--Asher
Nisa’o Libo, Kol Nediv Lev, Chacham Lev, U’Lehoros Nasan
BeLibo. It is a time to remind ourselves of the precious words of the
Mesilas Yesharim (end of Chapter 16): “Chazal teach that Rachmana
Liba Ba’i--Hashem wants us to serve Him with our hearts--for it is not
enough for Hashem to see our deeds alone, such as our Ma’aseh Mitzvah.
Rather, it is most important to Him that our hearts be pure to serve Hashem
in truth. The heart is the king of all the other parts of the body and
leads them, as so if the heart is not focused on the service of Hashem, then
the service of the other limbs and organs is not worth anything, for they
will just follow the heart. In fact, this thought is expressed clearly by
Shlomo HaMelech (the wisest of all men) in Mishlei (23:26) “Tena Bini
Libecha Li…my son give me your heart!”
With
this thought in mind, we can well understand why the Pasuk in discussing the
construction of the Mishkan emphasizes the need not only for
the building of the Mishkan--but that our hearts be first dedicated to the
task!
Additional Note: We once again provide the story of the g’vir in
Flatbush who would open his door to all, giving to all with a generous
heart. Once, he sat down for dinner and his wife had prepared a soup for
him. There was a knock on the door, and he got up to answer. His wife
pleaded with him: “I will let him in and he can sit a few moments, at least
eat the soup while it is hot.” He turned to his wife and said: “This is my
opportunity to give something of myself. When I give money--I am simply
distributing that which belongs to Hashem, hopefully in a manner which
Hashem sees fit. Now, however, I have the chance to give up my hot soup for
this person. Let me rejoice in the opportunity!”
D.
The Pasuk teaches regarding Betzalel “U’Lehoros Nassan BeLibo--and
the ability to teach was placed in his heart. The Mefarshim explain that
with these words we are taught the difference between Lilmod
and LeLameid--to learn and to teach. It is a great level to
learn, and an even greater one to be able to teach. It is for this reason
that we request of Hashem in Ahava Rabba/Ahavas Olam that he please give
us the ability Lilmod U’LeLameid--to learn and to teach.
Everyone really has to be a teacher--chavrusos one to the other, husband and
wife, parent and child. We must therefore be careful to daven daily to
Hashem that He give us the ability not only to learn--but to be a good
teacher as well!
E.
Important Reminder! The Torah records that the people brought donations to
the Mishkan “BaBoker BaBoker” (Shemos 36:3). The Sefas Emes
interprets the repetition of the word ‘Boker’ to mean that the people
brought their gifts early in the morning, and explains that there is special
power in doing something early, or first, in the morning. It is for this
reason, the Sefer Talelei Oros explains that the Vilna Gaon, Z’tl,
would exclaim BeLev Shaleim U’VeSimcha when he rose from bed: “Hareini
MeKabel Alai Ohl Torah HaYom!” Likewise, the Siddur Siach
Yitzchak (Siddur HaGra) notes that in the Bracha of HaMa’avir Sheina
early each morning the first two requests we make following the Yehi Ratzon
are “Shetargileinu BeSorasecha VeDabekeinu BeMitzvosecha--please
accustom us to study Your Torah and attach us to Your commandments”--for the
first efforts, the first requests of the day, have a special status and
bearing. In special fact, the Tefillah presented by the Zohar upon arising
in the morning is “Yehi Ratzon…Sheyehei Libi Nachon U’Masur BeYadi
Shelo Eshkachecha--May it be Your will that I be upright, and in
control of my heart today, so that I don’t forget You.” The Siddur
Siach Yitzchak concludes that when one has a Haschala Tova in the
morning, then “Az Yiheyeh HaKol Tov--everything will be good.”
If we
have not already inculcated the above message into our awakening each
morning--let us seriously consider making this a turning point. As we arise
in the morning and begin to ready ourselves for the day all kinds of new
ideas and reminder bombard us--everything we have to do and even the order
we have to do it in. If we can take those first precious moments and focus
them properly--”Shetargileinu BeSorasecha VeDabikeinu BeMitzvosecha”,
“Sheyiheyeh Libi Nachon U’Masur BeYadi Shelo Eshkachecha”, and the
Gra’s thought B’Lev Shaleim U’VeSimcha to accept upon oneself the
Torah and the Mitzvos--then we have the express assurance of the Siddur
Siach Yitzchak that Az Yiheyeh HaKol Tov!
F.
HaRav Yaakov Kamenetsky, Z’tl, whose Yahrzeit is next week, provides a great
question and a remarkable insight on the Parasha. The Torah goes to great
lengths to describe the Mishkan and its Keilim--both the instructions to
build it, and the actual details as to its construction. We know the Mishkan
was precious to Hashem, and that we gain special insight into the Dor
HaMidbar with all of the detail. However, all of this detail is for a
temporary structure that is supposed to be standing for only a short
while--until the Bais HaMikdash is built. Remember that according to some
Rishonim the Chait HaMeraglim had not yet taken place, so Bnei Yisrael were
due to soon (within weeks or months) enter Eretz Yisrael and build the Bais
HaMikdash shortly thereafter. Thus, the Mishkan was intended to function for
perhaps a year or two (although ultimately it remained standing for 479
years). Yet, we see the detail which the eternal Torah provides for it--and
the enthusiasm, dedication, and effusiveness of the people towards a very
short-term construction. The important and special lesson here is that our
goal must be to accomplish. A Mitzvah may look to the eye as if it is
fleeting--so why put in so much time, such difficult effort, and significant
expense? This is absolutely not an appropriate cheshbon. Our
preparations can, and in many cases should, take longer than the Mitzvah
performance itself--for in reality the Mitzvah lasts for eternity! Time
is a physical concept--and we must transcend it in order to attain our
spiritual goals.
So,
the next time you feel like you are spending so much time--whether it is
trying to figure out what Bracha to make on a particular food or whether you
can eat a particular item, waiting on a line long for a few, “last-minute”
Shabbos items, davening or saying Tehillim for someone who is having surgery
today, or talking with someone on the phone who always seems to need chizuk,
remember…the ‘short-term’ everlasting and eternal Mishkan!
--------------------------------------------------
WE
SHARE WITH OUR READERS A FEW SHORT ADDITIONAL POINTS ON THIS WEEK’S
PARASHIYOS, CULLED FROM THE SEFER SHIUREI CHUMASH--THE SHIURIM OF
HARAV SHLOMO WOLBE, Z’TL, ON SEFER SHEMOS:
A.
Chazal teach that the Parasha begins with the instruction to keep Shabbos
then discusses the building of the Mishkan--in order to teach us that we do
not work on Shabbos even if it is to build the Mishkan. HaRav Wolbe, Z’tl,
asks: Who would ever think that building the Mishkan would be doche
Shabbos? Would writing a Sefer Torah be doche Shabbos? Quite to the
contrary--when something is doche Shabbos (such as a bris milah on
the eighth day, Karbanos brought in the Beis HaMikdash on Shabbos, or
Pikuach Nefesh situations), Chazal must bring specific pesukim or limudim
which allow Shabbos to be overridden. Based upon this question, HaRav Wolbe
suggests that the Torah is, at the very least, teaching us an important
mussar lesson. That is--one might think that sometimes in order to perform a
Mitzvah one can ‘step-on’ other Mitzvos. It is easy for one to rationalize
performing something which was essentially a ‘Mitzvah HaBa’ah
B’Aveira’. Rebbi Yisroel Salanter warns about this. Indeed, the story is
told of a person who in wrapping himself in his Tallis hit Rebbi Yisroel’s
face with the Tzitzis of the Tallis. Rebbi Yisroel told him--why am I at
fault that you are a Yerei Shomayim? Rebbi Yisroel would
likewise reproach those who would push and not pay proper attention to
others when trying to get closer to listen to a Shiur. So, too, with the
Mishkan--one does not build a home for Hashem’s presence by abrogating the
Shabbos in any way.
B. The
Pasuk teaches: “Kechu Me’itechem Terumah LaHashem Kol Nediv Libo--take
for yourselves a portion for Hashem, everyone whose heart motivates him
shall bring it.” (Shemos 35:5). HaRav Wolbe beautifully explains that the
process of building the Mishkan did not simply entail a building being built
and the Shechina thereupon coming to dwell within it. Rather, everyone who
brought a Terumah brought it Menidvas Libo--meaning that he brought a
part of the Shechina in his heart with it. The Shechina that rested on the
Mishkan--was really the Shechina that rested on the hearts of K’lal
Yisrael--which was now assembled into one, unified holy place!
C. The
Ramban writes that Betzalel constructed the Aron by himself. The Ramban
explains that this is because he was filled with the spirit and wisdom to do
so--it was not a matter of craftsmanship--it was a matter of Ruach Elokim,
Chochma, Tevunah and Da’as. This is a tremendous lesson for us. Greatness is
measured by how much spirit and how much hisbonenus, how much
thought, one puts into what he cares about. When one goes to do a doctor,
who quickly checks him and prescribes a medication--one knows that this
doctor is not really an expert. A good doctor will listen well to the
symptoms, think about them, put them together and then decide what is wrong
and how to treat it. The difference between katnus and gadlus--one
who is small and one who is great is in his power of hisbonenus--putting
true spirit and real thinking into what is important!
D.
Upon assembly of the Mishkan, the Pasuk (Shemos 36:13) concludes Vayehi
HaMishkan Echad--and the Mishkan was one. HaRav Wolbe teaches that the
word Echad here does not only mean that is was ‘one’ and not ‘two’,
but also that it was one--that included everything, for everything in it was
unified. Likewise, he concludes, when in Shema we recite the words Hashem
Echad--we not only mean that Hashem is One and not two, but that Hashem
is One and that everything is subsumed and included within Him--everything
comes from Him--and all of the world’s needs and requirements are fulfilled
by Him!
--------------------------------------------------
THE
CONCLUSION OF SEFER SHEMOS:
As we conclude Sefer Shemos tomorrow, we recognize that there is a new
beginning next week with Sefer Vayikra. It is a momentous ending of the
Sefer HaGeulah, and the inauguration of the aftermath of Geulah--the Toras
Kohanim--service of Hashem on a higher plane in a Mikdash . Most
definitely, this should be a Shabbos of real reflection--what am I
concluding--and what will I be beginning? How will I utilize the
opportunity? Will I realize that it would truly be an accomplishment to
improve in Avodas Hashem before the second half of the Year--with a
concrete improvement that I have been meaning to make
--especially in Torah or Tefillah? As we see the great work product of the
Mishkan come to final fruition in Parashas Pekudei--let us practically and
meaningfully take the lesson of its building to the meaningful next
step--real and actual growth in Avodas Hashem!
---------------------------------------------
SHABBOS, 27 ADAR IS THE FIFTH YAHRZEIT OF HARAV SCHEINBERG (CHAIM PINCHOS
B’R’ YAAKOV YITZCHOK), Z’TL:
The magnitude of HaRav Scheinberg, Z’tl’s gadlus is hard for us to
comprehend. His Ahavas Hashem, Ahavas HaTorah and Ahavas Yisrael were
nothing short of awe-inspiring. His being, his essence, was Ahava. Who can
forget how he answered shailos to those lined up waiting to see him as if
each sho’el was his son or grandson? And how he especially urged his
students to ‘give Tzedaka!’ in order to achieve Kapara for chait! We
recall how he would urge people to learn just a little more every day...for
time was one’s most valuable possession and must accordingly be used most
wisely.
Rav Scheinberg was once asked if
he could provide “hadracha”, or guidance, in how one could better study
Torah. He provided a two-word response: “Learn more.”
Rav
Scheinberg once told a parent who had requested that he give his son a
bracha that he become a Talmid Chacham--that he would give him the bracha,
provided that the son committed to learn an additional five minutes per day!
We provide the following excerpts from the The Torah Home, by Rabbi
Shlomo Furst, Shlita, based on the Shiurim of Rav Scheinberg, Z’tl.
To obtain the full, original English version and the Hebrew translation--and
other books in Rabbi Furst’s Torah Way of Life series containing Rav
Scheinberg’s teachings, please call: 972-2-500-4682:
A. Sechel.
Our lives are precious. Therefore, people who are concerned train themselves
to follow their sechel. We cannot ignore our emotions--but we can
direct them. The emotions can become submissive to the sechel. Then
they will be manageable, instead of assertive. Individuals who are
successful with their sechel will not become angry or infuriated.
They are settled and calm. Tranquility is the prevailing characteristic of
their personalities.
There is something more. We have essential and undeniable physical needs.
Life would be impossible without them. We must eat, drink and sleep. People
must populate the world. These things are all true and appropriate.
Nevertheless, thought, control and moderation must govern every physical act
we do. The influence of Torah elevates us beyond the need for pleasure.
Indulgence, the thoughtless pursuit of every whim, will not bring
satisfaction. When our sense of priorities is wrong, an inner conflict will
rage between an unquenchable need for physical gratification and the
unfulfilled aspirations of the neshama.
Most of us want to be good. Nevertheless, the best of us can fall prey to
daily stresses, fatigue and frustration. The sechel is certainly
influenced by the body and its physical needs. Nevertheless, the more we
fortify our sechel with Torah, the less vulnerable we will be to the
influence of our emotions. Counterproductive emotions, especially anger,
flourish best under stressful conditions.
The best response to a situation where anger has gained control is to remain
silent. Try not to react. Instead, maintain your own composure. Be tolerant,
for most good-natured people, although temporarily enraged, will surely come
to their senses and snap out of it. We must realize and value the importance
of sechel. We must behave like mature people and control the urge to
vent our anger.
Self-control is vital for creating and maintaining a healthy marriage and
relationships. If our sechel is so undeveloped and therefore weak and
we cannot resist a momentary upset, we will make many mistakes. We will have
many regrets.
Under the influence of anger or frustration, spouses may make many hurtful
statements. It is difficult to retract such harmful words. We have to be
sensible enough to evaluate our loss against what we gain. Thoughtless
outbursts of anger are destructive. Under all circumstances, whether we are
provoked from within or from without, we must remain silent. To remain
silent is very difficult, but the reward for holding back angry words of
retort and revenge is very great. If we exercise control over ourselves, we
will feel wonderful over our success and our marriage and relationships will
flourish.
B. Menuchas HaNefesh.
Guided by sechel--clear and balanced thinking--we will fulfill the
purpose of our lives. We will achieve ‘ashrecha v’tov lach’ (Tehillim
128:2). We will have menuchas hanefesh. We all desire and value
shalom. Nevertheless, shalom is an elusive reality. We generally
think of peace as being the lack of conflict among people. This definition,
however, does not indicate the need for menuchas hanefesh.
Shalom
is truly the result of personal, inner peace. We must achieve peace between
our inner drives and motivations before shalom can be expected to
flourish among people. We must be happy with ourselves before we can be
happy with others. Shalom begins with us. The more menuchas hanefesh
we have, the more we will be able to be calm in our homes and supportive to
our families. If we have menuchas hanefesh, then even in the fact of
daily challenges and ordeals, the quality of our home lives will be
peaceful. Bickering is an outward expression of the lack of personal
shleimus. It is a lack of menuchas hanefesh that leads to discord
within the home. Our inner, spiritual life affects our behavior. The home is
a place where we think we can be ‘ourselves’. Nothing can be further from
the truth. At home, we have to be better than ourselves. We may be angered
much more easily and lose our control at home. If we lack education and
training about how to manage our emotions, wherever we may be--including the
home, then this battle ranges throughout life. If we are at peace with
ourselves--at all times--we can help bring peace to our families, our
friends--and the world!
=================================
25 Adar
VISITING A CEMETERY:
For those who will be visiting a cemetery prior to Rosh Chodesh Nissan, we
provide by the following link the text of a mini pamphlet prepared in
connection with a visit to a cemetery--
http://tinyurl.com/l6yygld
--------------------------------------------
FROM A
READER:
“And the servant [Eliezer]
ran toward her
and
said,
“Please
let me drink some water
from
your pitcher.”
(Bereishis 24:17) Rashi quotes a
Midrash
that says Eliezer ran toward Rivka because he saw that when
Rivka drew water for herself, the water rose towards her of its own
volition.
Yet, the Ramban
points out that when Eliezer later asked Rivka to draw
water
for him, the Pasuk says: ‘[Rivka] herself drew all the water for his
camels.’ This time, the water did not rise up to greet her; on its own.
Rav
Levi Yitzchak of Berdichev, Z’tl,
explains that when Rivka went to draw water for herself, Hashem
accommodated her and made the water rise toward her since she was a
‘Tzadekes’. However, since Eliezer had requested water from her, she
would now be fulfilling a Mitzvah. Hashem did not want to ease her burden,
since doing so would lessen her reward.
Therefore, He made
her work as hard as any other person in order to accomplish the Mitzvah.
Hakhel Note: What a wonderful thought! During this short and sometimes
pressured period between Purim and Pesach, we sometimes may wish that things
could be a bit easier, and could go just a tad more smoothly. That might
not always happen, but we should most definitely be encouraged and energized
by the fact that Rivka Imeinu did not have it easy either--and that was
especially so--so that the sweat and toil involved with the Mitzvah in the
here and now could go a very, very long way in the forever and ever
thereafter. As you perform your tasks in preparation for the Chag, remember
that whatever you are doing is not for the day or for the week, but for
eternity--an everlasting hereafter!
------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially
spiritual period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach! Of course, one
should in all events consult with his own Rav or Posek pertaining to his
particular facts or circumstances:
A. The
Mishna Berurah (Orach Chayim 436, seif katan 32) provides the following
ruling to us for these days before Pesach: “Kol Shloshim Yom Tzorich
LeAyein Bechol Davar She’oseh She’lo Yishar Bo Chometz Be’ofen She’lo Yuchal
Lehasiro BeKal--during the thirty days before Pesach one must be
sure in everything that he does not to leave Chometz over in a way which in
which it will be difficult to remove or dispose of”--the Housewife’s
Vigilance is rooted deeply and firmly in the words of the Mishna Berurah!
B.
What is gebrukt--L’Halacha? The following
is culled from the excellent and need-to-have Sefer Halachos of Pesach
(Feldheim), by Rabbi Shimon D. Eider, Z’tl:
1.
Where matzah in any form (e.g. matzah meal, cake meal) came in contact with
water [or other liquids], some communities have a minhag not to eat it on
the first seven days of Pesach. Yet, we know that once matzah was baked, it
cannot become chometz again. What then is the reason for this minhag? The
Knesses HaGedolah explains that it was made as a gezeirah, that one
should not, in error, come to use flour instead of matzah meal during
Pesach. Another reason mentioned is that there is a possibility that some of
the matzah flour was not kneaded well and when it will get wet it will
become Chometz. Since the last day of Pesach is MiD’Rabanan, many of those
who accepted this minhag did not accept it for the last day of Pesach
because of Simchas Yom Tov.
2. Can
one change his minhag? Since gebrukt is not considered in halacha as
chometz and this minhag was not accepted by most communities, there are
Poskim who hold that in case of necessity one may change his minhag.
However, a Rav should be consulted as to whether Hataras Nedarim is
required. A woman, upon marriage, assumes the minhag of her husband (see
Igros Moshe, Orach Chaim I: 158 and III:64).
C.
Annual Essential Hakhel Alert: As the saying goes, a fool learns from
his own mistakes--a wise person learns from the mistakes of others! When one
notices two or three Hashgachos on a product--one should look to make
sure that the Hashgacha that he is relying upon is actually
certifying it for Pesach near its insignia. Unless the ‘Kosher
L’Pesach’ insignia is next to the Hashgacha’s name--it does not mean that
the Hashgacha is certifying the product as Kosher L’Pesach. An extra moment
of purchasing caution--can save hours of kashering issues (or at least
moments of consternation or concern) later! Chazal teach Aizehu Chacham
HaRo’eh Es HaNolad--the wise person looks into his actions and
understands their ramifications. We will be reading about the Chacham on
the Leil HaSeder--let’s start practicing now!
---------------------------------------------------------------
SPENDING PERSONAL MOMENTS TO DAVEN FOR THE GEULAH SHELEIMAH:
Five years ago today, the horrific massacre in Toulouse in which Rabbi
Yonasan Refoel Sandler, Z’tl, his two sons, and a young girl, Miriam
Monsonego were murdered, H’YD. The pain of galus moves on and on--time
passes, but the searing pain is remembered and we beg Hashem to avenge each
and every suffering. The Sefer Sifsei Chachomim on Mesechta
Megillah brings a comforting Pasuk (Yeshayahu 65:16): Ki Nishkechu
HaTzaros Harishonos Ki Nistaru Mai’ainai--for the earlier travails will
have been forgotten.... Remembrance of all of the tzaros we experienced in
galus will be expunged in the bliss of the final Geulah. With this
thought in mind, how can we not daven with special zeal every day for the
Geulah Sheleima to come once and for all--today?! When it does
come--and it will--perhaps your Tefillos that day will be instrumental in
its coming--with all the tzaros gone, and all the joy to begin, and you as
an important part in its coming!
--------------------------------------
THE WORLD’S CREATION AND US!
There is a disagreement between Rebbi Yehoshua and Rebbi Eliezer as to the
date on the calendar upon which man was created. Tosfos explains that
according to Rebbi Yehoshua, who holds that man was created on Rosh Chodesh
Nissan, it would mean that the first day of Ma’aseh Bereishis--the day
the world began--is today, the 25th of Adar! What a great
day it is to start something new. A new Mitzvah, a new project, a new goal,
a new accomplishment. Each and every one of us has the ability to--and
should strive to do so. In this regard, we provide the following
insights--from Dovid HaMelech himself in the extremely poignant and
instructive Chapter 119 of Tehillim:
A. Dovid exclaims (Tehillim 119:164): ’Sheva Bayom Hillalticha Ahl
Mishpetei Tzidkecha...Seven Times a Day I have praised You for Your
righteous ordinances’. Rashi (ibid.) explains that these seven times
are in fact the seven Brachos that we recite every day which
relate directly to Kriyas Shema--three Brachos in Shacharis (two
before Kriyas Shema and one after), and four Brachos in Ma’ariv (two
before Kriyas Shema and two after). What a great new goal it would be if we
would especially recognize the tremendous importance and significance of
these Brachos--rather than viewing them only as portals to Kriyas Shema or
Shemone Esrei--and put some real Kavannah into their recitation. Seven
focused Brachos a day--revolving around our fundamental daily Kriyas Shema--truly
a phenomenal accomplishment. Dovid Hamelech expressed it clearly--Sheva
BaYom Hillalticha--and this is what he meant!
B. Dovid pleads (Tehillim 119:18) ‘Gal Ainai Ve’Abita Niflaos
MiTorasecha--unveil my eyes that I may perceive wonders from Your Torah.’
The Torah is so deep and there is so much for us to know. One may
dejectedly ask: Is the task really possible? This is definitely not the
appropriate question--a more telling query for oneself is--what am I really
doing to gain as much Divine Knowledge as I can? Beyond my set or daily
Torah study, am I steadfastly and actively seeking Hashem’s guidance--am I
asking Hashem for help daily--for eye-opening understanding in what to
study, how to study--and in the study itself? When stuck or stymied on a
point, when tired or unclear, when unsure how to next proceed--do I ‘turn
off’--or instead do I recite this very Pasuk that Dovid Hamelech recited
when he was in his own similar situation (on his level)?! Hashem as the
Source of all Torah can most certainly assist you to acquire more and more
of it. Commit the Pasuk to memory--and use it very sincerely--and very
freely!
C. Dovid teaches (Tehillim 119:129) Pela’os Eidvosecha Al Kain
Netzarasam Nafshi--Your testimonies are wonders, therefore my soul has
guarded them. Rashi (ibid.) comments that the enormity of Mitzvah
accomplishment is hidden from us--as an example, he cites the Mitzvah of
Shi’luach HaKan--which appears so simple, quick and costless--yet has
Arichus Yomim attached to it in and of itself. With this in mind, no
Mitzvah should be downplayed, underrated, skipped, or skimped upon. Chazal
teach that HaYom La’Asosam--our Mitzvah performance is limited to our
time in this world, and so no G-d Given opportunity should be forsaken.
Moreover, one should actively seek to perform Mitzvos that he has not had
the opportunity to perform before. Dovid (Tehillim 119:19) actually
expresses it clearly with the words : ‘Ger Anochi Va’Aretz Al Taster
Mimeni Mitzvosecha--I am a sojourner in the world, hide not Your Mitzvos
from me’. If one views each day as a fountainhead of burgeoning
opportunities--if he sees the events in his life as true occasions for
eternity, if one actively looks to uncover and achieve new sources for his
soul’s satisfaction--then he is taking the teachings of Dovid HaMelech to
heart. The Chayei Odom devotes an entire Chapter (Chapter 68) to
appreciating and accomplishing Mitzvos. If possible, one should study it,
and even review it again from time to time. Hashem has given and
continues to give us gifts of immense proportions daily--let us try hard to
appreciate, to rejoice in, and make the most of these Heavenly gifts. We
can then ask for more and more--which He will be happy to give--and
which will give Him nachas! A new, devoted effort to appreciate and
strive for Mitzvos daily--what opportunity! Thank you--25 Adar!
=================================
24 Adar
THE LAST SEVEN DAYS OF ADAR:
The following is excerpted from the always timely and relevant Sefer
HaToda’ah by Rabbi Eliyahu Kitov, Z’tl, as translated and known as
The Book of Our Heritage (Feldheim Publishers--available in pocket size
as well!). “The last Seven Days of Adar, from the Twenty-Third until Rosh
Chodesh Nisan, are called the Yemei HaMiluim--the ‘days of
dedication.’ It was then that Moshe Rabbeinu consecrated the Mishkan after
its construction. These days of dedication of the first Mishkan are
destined to be repeated when the Moshiach comes. It is said that his coming
and the rebuilding of the Bais HaMikdash will take place in the month of
Nisan. Thus, the days of dedication serve as a memorial to the Mishkan made
by Moshe, as well as a time of prayer for the final redemption and the
rebuilding of the Beis HaMikdash in which the Shechina will dwell
eternally.”
Hakhel Note: It is extremely important that we understand the timely
message--that we appreciate the times--and that we utilize them to their
utmost, to their fullest. The choice is now ours as to whether we will be
busy with 100 other things--or whether we will not be satisfied with the
status quo, and will be proactive--yearning for the Geulah with especially
dedicated Tefillos. To personalize and apply the thought with an Olam HaZeh
analogy: It is as if the lottery is about to be drawn, and you have been
awarded four out of the five numbers for good behavior an hour before the
drawing--you have only to successfully choose the fifth number. Would you
bother taking the time and making the effort to select it?! Each and every
one of us must take this incredible time period as seriously and as
wonderfully as it really is! It is the time of Miluim--the time of
fulfillment!
------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially
spiritual period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach! Of course, one
should in all events consult with his own Rav or Posek pertaining to his
particular facts or circumstances:
Almost
everyone purchases some kind of new utensil before Pesach. Accordingly, in
order to give you plenty of time, we
once again provide the Hakhel Tevilas Keilim Guidelines
(reviewed By HaRav Yisroel Belsky Z’tl).
Please note that Tevilas Keilim is an obligation (chiyuv), and if not done
properly, a k’li may not be used until toveled correctly.
General Tevila Reminders:
A. All chatzitzos (i.e., dirt, glue and stickers or other items or
markings not part of the k’li which neither the owner nor most people would
use with this item on the k’li) must be removed prior to submersion.
B. The entire k’li (even if oversized) must be fully submerged all
at once (not one-half first, then the other half immediately thereafter).
C. Do not hold the k’li tightly, so that the mikva water can reach
everywhere. You can tovel the k’li by moving your hand to another part of
the k’li while holding it below the water level; or you can dip your hand in
the mikva first, and then take hold of the k’li and submerge it in the mikva.
D. All keilim should be submerged right side up or on a slant, but
not upside down, so that no air is trapped in the utensil.
E. Submersion must be supervised only by an individual over bar/bas
mitzvah. A child may be tovel keilim if an adult sees him do it.
F. Using baskets:
1. Items should be placed in the basket side by side and not on top
of each other.
2. The basket may be submerged in water, and then you may drop
utensils into the basket, so that each utensil is surrounded by water as it
falls in.
G. The Bracha:
1. Brachos are made for metal and glass utensils only.
2. “Al Tevilas Keli” for one item, “Al Tevilas Keilim”
for more than one item.
3. Hold the k’li in your hand (or basket) and be ready to
tovel immediately after making the bracha.
4. When toveling storage utensils or utensils which come into
contact with the food while it is not yet edible, no bracha is made.
Hakhel Note: Tevilas Keilim is such a basic, beautiful and simple Mitzvah to
perform--let us take a moment out to make sure that we, and those around us,
are performing it properly! Please distribute further--and if you can, post
these guidelines near your Keilim Mikveh!
---------------------------------------------------------------
FROM A
READER: “In
response to your Question of the Week (as to one taking Chometz out of his
pocket today--has he fulfilled the Mitzvah of bi’ur chometz?), I’d suggest
that no biur was involved - but - here’s one of my favorite “vertlach”. Rav
Levi Yitzchak of Berdichev, Z’tl, used to say that if a person learns from a
sefer (any day of the year) and then before returning it to the shelf he
checks it for crumbs (so that he will not have to check it Erev Pesach)...
he is being mekayim the mitzvah of Lemaan Tizkor Es Yom Tzeischa MayEretz
Mitzrayim Kol Yemei Chayecha... so our pocket checker should have THAT
mitzvah!”
------------------------------------
THE
FOLLOWING IS BASED ON A SHIUR GIVEN BY HARAV MATTISYAHU SALOMON, SHLITA,
WHICH WE ONCE AGAIN PROVIDE TO ENLIGHTEN AND UPLIFT OUR READERS:
Rabbeinu Yonah in the Shaarei Teshuvah (2:5) writes that a
Botei’ach BaShem--one who trusts in Hashem--who is in the midst of a
t’zara, a difficulty, or even only a challenge, must view the situation
differently than the millions of people surrounding him.
The
Pasuk in Micha (7:8) as explained in Midrash Tehillim (22) teaches, “If I
had not fallen, I could not now stand, if I had not sat in darkness, I would
not now have light.” The common perception that one “passes through”,
“recovers”, “rebounds” or “survives” his suffering is foreign to the one who
truly trusts in Hashem. Rather, the one who trusts views his suffering as
an opportunity ordained by G-d--only FROM THE FALL comes the rise, only FROM
THE DARKNESS comes the light.
It is
not the Ribono Shel Olam pushing him down, letting go, making it difficult
for him--it is a fall created by Hashem Himself to enable him to rise, a
pervasive darkness required in order to attain true light.
HaRav
Salomon explains that the Botei’ach BaShem does not say “Hashem will
get me out of this” or “There is a light at the end of this tunnel.”
Instead, he acknowledges and understands that the purpose of the tunnel is
for him to arrive at the light. One must, as a given, acknowledge and
understand that the All-Knowing, All-Present, Creator and Supervisor has
intentionally designed the process by which one can attain the goals he is
to reach in his lifetime. The trials, tribulations, and difficulties are
not established out of cruelty, disdain or indifference, but arise because
He, in His Omniscience, knows (infinitely more than us) who we are really
and what we really need.
In
this elevated period between Purim and Pesach, we can understand this lesson
both on an individual and a communal level.
Esther, a descendant of royalty, wife of a leader of the generation, and a
Neviah in her own right, is forced to live in the most repulsive place
imaginable, away from her family and her people--in a literal prison without
walls--for nine (9) long years, without any seeming rhyme or reason. What
had she done?! Can we fathom what her suffering could have been? What
emerged was the saving of all of K’lal Yisrael, and the rebuilding of the
Beis HaMikdash as a direct result of the few discussions she had with
Achashveirosh, as recorded in the Megillah.
Similarly, in Mitzrayim, hundreds of thousands of B’nei Yisrael suffered
from “Avodas Perech”--in all its definitions, systematic torture--for
scores of years. What went wrong? How did all this happen? And the Torah
supplies a two-word answer--[We were placed in Mitzrayim as a] “KUR HABARZEL”--a
smith’s oven, used to refine metal. Why were they there under these
horrific conditions? So that K’lal Yisrael would survive and thrive from
then on and through the Mashiach’s times and forever thereafter.
HaRav
Salomon points to the wine we drink on both Purim and Pesach. Why is wine
so crucial on these special days and why is wine the only food over which we
recite the brocha “Hatov V’HaMativ”--Hashem is good and does good? If
we study the wine-making process, we note that luscious, edible grapes are
stomped on or crushed before they would otherwise have been eaten. Then,
instead of drinking the resulting liquid, we watch in amazement as it
ferments and becomes moldy and terrible tasting. Are these people
sadistic--spoiling such good grapes? But then--after the wine ages and
matures, it is filtered and what is produced is not a thirst-quencher, but
an honorable beverage, which lifts up a person’s spirits.
To the
Botei’ach BaShem, Rav Salomon continues, this is a microcosm of the
Ribono Shel Olam’s Hanhaga--behavior--in this world. Without the
fermentation process--without the years of repulsive mold which seems
irreversible--we could not have the brand, kind and taste of wine which a
connoisseur could appreciate and savor. We can now understand why we make
“Hatov V’HaMativ” specifically on wine--because we realize that the process
was necessary and intended by the world’s Creator and we acknowledge that it
is for good--notwithstanding our original misconceptions. The cup of wine
that we drink has gone through an entire process and represents how we are
to understand the Hashgachas Hashem in our world.
As we
go through these days of Purim to Pesach, a time that is surrounded by
intense suffering that led to sparkling redemption--as symbolized by the
wine of which we partake--we, too, should become connoisseurs and remember
that Hashem will take us out of all of our current t’zaros,
individual and collective, just as the horribly soured wine is ultimately
whiffed and savored by the most discerning of experts. We can perhaps do
this best through constantly reminding ourselves of Hashem’s Hashgacha in
our everyday lives--to the smallest detail--and our Bitachon can be
especially reinforced by the dedicated way in which we recite our
brachos--no matter how harried, time-pressured or distracted one may
otherwise be!
=================================
23 Adar
THE
KOSHER HAIRCUT GUIDE POSTER:
As the Chag approaches, we once again
provide an important link to The Kosher Haircut Guide
Poster (available at
http://tinyurl.com/yh2dqy6 ). We urge you to distribute this
link, in order to help many others in your community
as well. To obtain a free large and laminated poster for placement in a
barber shop, or permanent placement in Shul, Yeshiva, or other institution,
please call: 718-253-5497.
-------------------------------------------------------------
FROM A
READER:
“I suggest an alternative explanation for the Kitzur prefacing “Shorei
LeChol Mann Di Tza’aran” to Ribbono Shel Olam: The former is the Tefila of
Mar Zutra recorded in the Gemora (Megilla 28a), while Tefilas Ribbono Shel
Olam is a later (post-Shas) formulation elaborating upon Mar Zutra’s
pronouncement. Clearly those following the predominant practice of Klal
Yisrael to recite “Ribbono Shel Olam,” but not “Shorei,” fulfill Chazal’s
guidance. It is interesting that Litvishe Chassidim who daven from Siddur
Ohr HaYashar separate the two, reciting “Ribbono Shel Olam” at the onset of
Krias Shema She’Al HaMita (as is the conventional Minhag) and “Shorei LeChol
Mann Di Tza’aran” at the end of Krias Shema She’Al HaMita, following the
Pesukei D’Rachamei (Pesukim besearching Hashem’s mercy) and just before
Birkas HaMapil. I have not yet heard an explanation of this practice.”
-------------------------------------------------------------
QUESTION OF THE DAY:
What is three weeks from
today? This is a real example of Gilu Bira’ada! Experience it!
------------------------------------------------------
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
Over the course of the next three weeks until Erev Pesach, if one takes
Chometz out of his pocket or out of his drawer in preparation for
Pesach--has he fulfilled a Mitzvas Asei of Bi’ur Chometz?
------------------------------------------------------
THE
NEXT 21 DAYS:
Having just completed Parashas
Parah, we know that the time is ripe for taharah--for purifying
ourselves. Even if we cannot at this moment purify ourselves with the Parah
Adumah in order to enter the Beis HaMikdash, we can still do our utmost to
purify ourselves in preparation for the Chag. Chazal teach us that at any
time and at all times--Haba LeTaheir Mesayin Oso--if one wants to
attain purity, Hashem will assist and guide him to accomplish his task.
Most certainly, then--today and every day for the next 21 days until
Pesach, Teshuvah Bechol Yom should take on great importance each and
every day!
------------------------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially
spiritual period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach! The following
halachos are culled from the Sefer Halachos of Pesach (Feldheim), by
Rabbi Shimon D. Eider, Z’tl.
This Sefer is an outstanding resource in English for practical Halachos of
Pesach. Of course, one should in all events consult with his own Rav or
Posek pertaining to his particular facts or circumstances:
A.
We find throughout Hilchos Pesach the term Chumra D’Chometz.
Since
chometz is punishable with Kares, there are many Chumros
accepted in dealing with chometz on Pesach which are not
used
in dealing with other prohibited foods (e.g. Chometz
on
Pesach is prohibited b’mashehu while other issurim are
Batel B’Shishim). Because of Chumra D’Peasch, many minhagim
were accepted, most of these have a basis in
Halacha:
B. Some communities did not eat dried fruit during
Pesach.
The basis for this minhag is that flour was spread on the fruit during
the
drying process. In addition, the ovens used for drying were also used
for
chometz.
Where there is proper supervision, it is permissible.
C. Some communities did not eat garlic during Pesach. Although the
basis
for this minhag is questionable (some say that the farmers would soak the
garlic in beer),
where there is proper supervision, most Poskim hold that
even ground garlic is permissible.
D.
Some people use only unwashed eggs during Pesach. Their reason
is
that since the eggs were washed with the chicken feed (which may contain
chometz) and with questionable detergents, chometz may have been absorbed
by the eggs during the washing. Although most Poskim hold that it is
permissible,
the eggs should be rinsed before cooking.
E.
Because the Jewish people are a nation of Kedoshim and Chassadim and the
Ari, Z’tl, said that one who is saved from violating even the most minute
issur of
chometz on Pesach is assured that the entire year he will not sin,
individuals
have accepted upon themselves additional Chumros for Pesach.
F. Although some of these minhagim have
no firm basis in halacha, one who conducts himself in this way and his
intentions are purely L’Sheim Shomayim,the
Sha’arei Teshuvah (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 460) applies the Pasuk: V’Ameich
Kulam Tzaddikim (Yeshaya 16:21).
--------------------------------------------------
THE 23RD OF ADAR:
Today, 23 Adar is the first day of the Shivas Yemei HaMiluim before
the Mishkan was finally consecrated on Rosh Chodesh Nissan. The Luach
Davar B’Ito writes that for seven days the Mishkan was erected and taken
down daily, and then was left standing on Rosh Chodesh Nissan--to
demonstrate that Beis HaMikdash HaShelishi will remain forever! The
Luach suggests that one read/review the Torah’s instructions relating to
the Yemei HaMiluim (Parashas Tetzaveh, revi’i through
shishi) and Karbanos HaMiluim in Parashas Tzav (from revi’i
until the end).
--------------------------------------------------
A GEULAH THOUGHT FOR THE TIME OF GEULAH:
The following potent words are excerpted from
With Hearts Full of Love, by Rabbi Yaakov Yosef Reinman, Shlita,
based on a series of talks on chinuch by Rabbi Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita:
“…the Rambam
writes that a person who does not
await the imminent arrival
of Mashiach with anticipation is considered to have denied that Mashiach
will ever come. [Yet, without real detail of any kind at all] all the
Torah tells us is that the Ribono Shel Olam will one day
gather in our exiles and bring us back to
Eretz Yisrael. [With such a lack of
detail, how can we be held so accountable for not anticipating the Geulah
?] Perhaps we can resolve this important
question with a parable. Let us imagine there is a poor man, a pauper who
does not know from one moment to the next where he will find his next crust
of bread. He has no friends or supporters who can help him out in his dire
need, but he does have a wife and a house full of little children who are
always on the verge of starvation. He has no prospects and no hope of
finding a decent livelihood in the foreseeable future. He is depressed and
despondent,
and every
day,
he walks around-in
a cloud of darkness.
One day,
a Tzaddik who lives in the same
town appears on his doorstep. Everyone knows that an untrue word never
crosses the lips of this holy man and that if he makes a promise it is
invariably fulfilled.
The poor man invites the Tzaddik into his
house and they sit down together.
“I had ‘a
dream about you last night,” says the Tzaddik. “In my
dream, I received a message from Heaven
that I was to deliver to you.”
The poor man shrinks back in fright. “No,
no,”
said the Tzaddik. “There is no need to be frightened. It was a good
message. I am to tell you that you should not give up hope. Although your
life is bleak and harsh right now, it will
become much better.
One day you will wake
up in the morning
and right there on your kitchen table you will find a large treasure, more
than enough to support you and your family in comfort for the rest of your
lives. Better times are on their way.”
The poor man is breathless with excitement. “When will this
happen?” “I don’t know,” says the tzaddik. “I was not told when it
would
be,
but I was assured that it would happen.” The Tzaddik
leaves, and the poor man is beside himself with joy. Because of the
reputation of the Tzaddik, the poor man has
no doubt that the message is genuine and that his fortunes will
change. He just does not know when it will happen. The next morning, the
poor man wakes up and immediately
runs to the kitchen table to check if the treasure has appeared.
There is no treasure. He is disappointed but not discouraged,
because he knows without a doubt that it will come to pass one day. He just
has to be patient. Days and months go by, and still he finds no treasure.
But it does not matter.
His life has been transformed, and although he is forced to live
with privation and hardship, the cloud of darkness has gone. His life is now
illuminated with hope. It does not matter how long it takes for the promise
of the Tzaddik to come true. Every day without fail, when he gets up
in the morning, the poor man checks to see if his treasure has arrived,
because he knows beyond the shadow of a doubt that it will be there one
day. It is the same with the belief in the coming of Mashiach. It is not
just that we believe Mashiach will come one day and redeem us. We also
believe that the times of Mashiach will be more wonderful for K’lal Yisrael
than any time that existed in the history of the world. It will be as if a
treasure has appeared on our table. All our worries, concerns and problems
will come to an end, and we will live in utter bliss. This is what the
Ribono Shel Olam has promised us, and there can be no greater assurance than
the divine promise. So if we really believe this, how is it possible that we
do not
wake up every morning and wonder if Mashiach has already arrived or at least
if this is the day that it will finally come to pass? If we
gave more than lip service to the coming of Mashiach,
if it was a reality for us rooted deep in our hearts,
we
would
surely await his imminent arrival with eager anticipation. And if it takes
time,
if days go by, even months, years
and centuries, and Mashiach is still not here, we are disappointed but not
discouraged. Because we know it will happen. The Ribono Shel Olam has promised
it
to us.
So we live with hope and the knowledge that this long and bitter
exile will one day come to an end. This is how it must be. It can be no
other way. If someone truly believes that Mashiach is coming and that the
redemption will be the end to all our troubles, how is it possible that he
does
not think about it
all the time?! How is it possible that he does not await that blessed day
with eager anticipation?! That is why the Rambam writes that if someone does
not await the arrival of Mashiach with eager anticipation he is considered
to have denied the prophecies of Moshe and the Neviim.”
Hakhel Note: As we recite the words Ki Lishuasecha Kivinu Kol Hayom--we
should think about our dream--and yearn and long for it---for it will arrive
for the one who awaits it!
=================================
22 Adar
QUESTION OF THE WEEK:
Last
week’s Parasha ends with the radiance of Moshe Rabbeinu’s face being so
great, that he had to put a mask on it--and this week’s Parasha begins with
the Mitzvah of Shabbos--what is the connection between these two Parashios?
-----------------------------------------------
TEFILLAH TEST!
After we complete one of the three daily Tefillos, we may feel uneasy or
disappointed over yet another lost opportunity. Days, weeks and even months
go by, with the Yetzer Hara doing his best to make us feel that our daily
Shemone Esrei cannot be improved to a standard of excellence. May we suggest
that, at the end of each Tefillah, one grade himself in his Shemone Esrei
with an “E”, “VG”, “G” “D” or “F”, with perhaps a brief comment? Seeing a
written record, one can incentivize himself to improve--and hopefully be
joyful over his marked improvement--in this extraordinary daily opportunity
of speaking directly with Hashem. If marking oneself on the entire Tefillah
seems out of one’s reach, he may want to do it on a bracha-by-bracha basis,
feeling elevated on a slower, step by step basis. The time to start is
now!
Hakhel Note: We were advised by someone who had visited the Baba Sali, Z’tl,
that the Baba Sali had advised him that he should always daven in a way that
a son would daven to a father. In this way, the Yetzer Hara would not be
able to interfere--for he has no right to impede the words of a child to his
or her father!
-----------------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially
spiritual period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach! Of course, one
should in all events consult with his own Rav or Posek pertaining to his
particular facts or circumstances:
A. The Mishna Berurah writes that it is a good practice to burn one’s
Chometz together with the Hoshanos from Sukkos--since one Mitzvah was done
with it, a second Mitzvah of Tashbisu should be performed with it as
well. The Rema brings a different Minhag--to bake Matzos with the Hoshanos
(Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 445, Mishna Berurah seif katan 7, Dirshu Note
10).
B. Can one take any leftover Chometz that he has and throw it into his trash
can on the side of his house? HaRav Moshe Feinstein, Z’tl, (Igros Moshe,
Orach Chaim 3:57) rules that even though one would not violate Ba’al
Yeira’eh with Chometz disposed of in a trash can, nevertheless,
one should destroy any Chometz by the time the z’man of biur
arrives. Many Poskim, including the Minchas Yitzchak and Shevet
HaLevi agree. The Steipeler Gaon, Z’tl, held that one should sell the
Chometz in his trash cans, and reports that it was the Minhag of the Chazon
Ish to burn the Chometz that was found in trash cans, and to wash the cans
out with water. The Steipeler himself would pour kerosene into the cans in
order to ensure that there was no leftover edible Chometz within them. HaRav
Elyashiv, Z’tl, on the other hand, rules that when one throws trash into a
trash can, it is no longer usable, and is the same as giving it to an
akum, with no further action being required (ibid., Dirshu Note 22).
C. If c’v, one found Chometz in his home on Pesach--what should he
do--after all, has he not sold it to an akum, and accordingly, it is
no longer his to destroy? HaRav Tzvi Pesach Frank, Z’tl, rules that, in
fact, one should not burn it, but put it away together with other Chometz
that he has sold. The Shevet HaLevi, rules that lechatechila
one should make a fence around it--but if one cannot do so, then he can
place it in the location of items that he sold to an akum. The
Shevet HaLevi adds that it may very well be that it is permissible to
burn this Chometz, for the akum would understand, is mochel,
and not consider this to be problematic in terms of the sale (ibid., 446,
Dirshu Note 2)
--------------------------------------------------
A COMMON SCENARIO!
Someone you know is not
particularly careful with the laws of Shemiras HaLashon approaches you and
starts relating information about a common acquaintance which is at least
borderline derogatory, and which you already believed to be true before this
person came over to you. In this situation, one must nevertheless battle
the “I know this already” feeling, and still judge the one being spoken
about lechaf zechus. One should not allow the fact that the negative
words are being stated or reiterated by another to enter his mind and
validate his prior belief or knowledge. Rather--he should deny the pleasure
of the one relating the Lashon Hara by saying something like: “Sorry, I
don’t listen to/accept Lashon Hara”--and should simultaneously re-judge the
victim lechaf zechus. Look at the situation from a bird’s eye
view--you are being tested on an advanced level--pass with flying colors!
-----------------------------------------------
THE PRECIOUS WORDS OF HAREINI MOCHEL!:
The following Halacha is excerpted from the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (71:3):
“Before going to bed, one should put
in his heart to forgive all
those who have sinned against him, so that they are
not punished because of him. Chazal (Shabbos 149B) teach that ‘A person on
whose account another is punished [i.e., by not forgiving him] is not
allowed into the mechitzah of Hakadosh Baruch Hu. Instead,
one should recite three times: “Shorei
LeChol Mann Di Tza’aran--I forgive all
those who caused me distress.” Hakhel Note: Incredibly, the Kitzur
then goes on to teach that after this one should
still recite the tefillah of Ribbono Shel Olam HaReini Mochel….
In other words, it would
appear that the Kitzur is requiring a specific stand-alone statement (to be
repeated three times) before the tefillah of Ribbono Shel
Olam to indicate the thoughtfulness and
sincerity of the statement!
----------------------------------------------------------
ONE
FINAL PUSH ON KIYMU V’KIBLU.
Based upon the Sefer Ma’alos HaTorah, the Chofetz Chaim brings the
following powerful Mashal: If the king promoted a commoner to the royal
service, to a position otherwise performed by senior officials, the commoner
would most certainly feel a great joy--even if he would not be paid for his
work. After all, he need only consider where he was before and where he is
today. All the more so, must one rejoice when he realizes that he has been
promoted above the level of the common man to study and practice the words
of the Torah HaKedosha--words which the Malachei HaShareis themselves regale
in--and words which the Tzaddikim in Gan Eden spend all of their time with!
If this is not enough, continues the Chofetz Chaim, one should remember the
words of Chazal who teach: “When one studies Torah the angels created by
his words surround him for as far as he can see--and he is in their midst!”
Hakhel Note: What new commitment (bli neder) can one make to this
incredible, unparalleled and eternity-creating royal privilege?! It is most
definitely very well worth it to spend the time and make the effort!
----------------------------------------------------------
SOME FINAL POINTS AND POINTERS ON PARASHAS KI SISA:
A. In
the Beis HaMikdash, the Kohanim were required to wash their hands and
their feet prior to performing the Avodah. Before we daven, we are only
required to wash our hands, although our Beis HaKnesses is a Mikdash
Me’at. We can appreciate from this, in a small way, how especially holy
the Beis HaMikdash was. The feet are farthest away from the person’s Lev
and Moach--his thought process and his Neshama. Yet, the great
Kedusha of the Beis HaMikdash ‘got through’ even to the most distant organs
of the body, penetrating and elevating them. Oh, how, we should strive for
BeShuvcha L’Tzion B’Rachamim! Hakhel Note: The Karbon
Pesach is still very much within our reach--let us reach out! At this time
of year, as we bridge the Geulah of Purim and the Geulah of Pesach, let us
once again put special effort into the recitation of the Tefillah Ahl
HaGeulah (http://tinyurl.com/2u3l4e
(Hebrew version) and
http://tinyurl.com/3ybyxq (English version).
B. Of
the spices included in the Ketores, we find the chelbena,
which does not have a pleasant fragrance. Chazal teach that we derive from
this that we are to include the poshei Yisrael--the sinners--together
with us in our Shuls. The Sifsei Chachomim (explaining Rashi to Shemos
30:34) writes that this does not mean that we are enjoined to simply daven
together with the sinners. Rather--it means that they must do Teshuvah
together with us--and it is for this reason that Hashem will have mercy
on us--for even they are doing Teshuvah. We should keep this in mind when
helping the uneducated in Torah Judaism--when they do Teshuvah, Hashem has
mercy on us all!
C.
HaRav Yaakov Galinsky, Z’tl, teaches that the Cheit HaEigel is found in the
aliyah of Levi in order to teach us great sensitivity. Hashem does not want
to offend a Yisrael, who would otherwise receive the aliyah, because of his
great-great grandfather’s actions. We owe a high degree of feeling and
sensitivity to every member of K’lal Yisrael, no matter how dastardly
their deeds, or the deeds of their ancestors.
D.
HaRav Galinsky also teaches that when Hashem advised Moshe that Bnei Yisrael
had made the Eigel, he told Moshe: “Saru Maheir--they have removed
themselves quickly from the path that I have commanded them.” HaRav
Galinsky derives from this that when one must make a decision he must
pause. If K’lal Yisrael would have stopped to reconsider, would have
hesitated just a bit to rethink matters--we would have been in the Yemos
HaMashiach--thousands of years ago!
E.
After Hashem heeded Moshe Rabbeinu’s cries to save K’lal Yisrael after the
Cheit HaEigel, Moshe continued to make new and additional requests. Rashi (Shemos
34:18) enlightens us all with the reason why: “Moshe saw that it was an
eis ratzon and his words were accepted, so he continued to ask….” Rashi
is teaching us that we should apply this lesson…and continue to ask at an
eis ratzon--when we see that things are going well!
F. In
response to one of Moshe Rabbeinu’s additional requests, Hashem told Moshe
(Shemos 33:23) “VeRa’isah Es Achorai U’Panai Lo Yeira’u--you will see
My ‘back’, but not My ‘face”.” The Chasam Sofer explained that one of the
meanings of this Pasuk is that, as humans, we can truly understand history
only after an event has occurred. As an example, the Chasam Sofer provided
a stirring episode in his own life. When he was a young man, he studied in
Yeshiva in Mintz, and was housed in the home of a Ba’al HaBayis who was
forced to quarter French soldiers from time-to-time. On one occasion, a
French soldier took a liking to the brilliant young man and asked if he
could stay in this house a little while longer so that he could learn from
the young man. He spent some time there, and the Chasam Sofer shared some
of his intellect with him. More than 30 years later, when the Chasam Sofer
was Rav of Pressburg and the French took hold of the city, he was brought up
on trumped up charges of espionage for the enemy. He was brought before a
French military tribunal. As he stood before the judges, the chief judge
immediately ordered him to come into a private room. After the door was
closed, the chief judge gently advised the Chasam Sofer that he was the
soldier that the Chasam Sofer had taught more than 30 years earlier in Mintz.
The chief judge continued: “I know these charges must be trumped up, and
you will be acquitted of them all!”
Hakhel
Note: To Hashem, time knows no bounds--we can always rest assured that we
are in His loving hands. The more we act with the 13 Attributes of Mercy as
found in the Parasha, that He expects of us (see Sefer Tomer Devorah,
Chapter 1 for practical applications)--the more mercy He will shower upon us
today…tomorrow…30 years hence…and forever and ever!
===============================
19 Adar
HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially
spiritual period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach!
Of course, one should in all events consult with his own Rav or Posek
pertaining to his particular facts or circumstances:
A. One fulfills the Mitzvas Asei of Tashbisu by appropriately
removing Chometz from his possession. If one fulfills Tashbisu by
burning his Chometz, he should burn the Chometz until it becomes thoroughly
burned, like charcoal. The Rema writes that it is our Minhag to burn the
Chometz, rather than dispose of it by throwing it into the water or flushing
it away in the lavatory, and the Mishna Berurah explains that this is
because there are some Poskim who rule in accordance with Rebbi Yehuda that
the only way to dispose of Chometz is through burning (Shulchan Aruch Orach
Chaim 445:1; Mishna Berurah seif katan 1, 3 and 14).
B. HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl, rules that one should not pour
kerosene or a similar flammable agent on the Chometz while burning it,
because while doing so he renders the Chometz inedible to a dog, in which
case there is no longer an obligation of biur. Accordingly, if one
did so, he would not fulfill the Mitzvas Asei of Tashbisu. If one
feels that he must quicken the process of burning the Chometz, then he
should leave at least a kezayis to burn without the aid of kerosene. HaRav
Nissim Karelitz feels that one can be lenient in this regard because the
kerosene burns before the Chometz itself, and in any event HaRav Auerbach
rules that if one does so, one need not rebuke him or perhaps one can view
the entire act as one act of burning (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim, Dirshu
Note 8).
C. If one does dispose of it by throwing it into the water or into the wind
in a public place, he should crumble it into small pieces, so that anyone
who finds it cannot obtain any benefit from the Chometz (ibid., Mishna
Berurah seif katan 2).
---------------------------------------------------------------
PARASHAS PARAH:
The Dirshu Edition of the Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 429,
note 5) brings the words of the Shelah HaKadosh who teaches that it is
appropriate to learn the Mesechta in Shas relating to the time period one is
in at that time, so that on Pesach one should learn Mesechta Pesachim, on
Sukkos one should learn Mesechta Sukkah--and on the Shabbos in which we
read Parashas Parah--Mesechta Parah. Tomorrow we will read Parashas
Parah--seize the opportunity! Hakhel Note: Parashas Parah teaches us
Taharas Yisrael--how we purify ourselves. Fascinatingly, HaRav Chaim
Kanievsky, Shlita, was once asked for an eitzah as to how one could
attain Yiras Shomayim. He advised that one should learn the Mishnayos of
Seder Taharos--for the Pasuk (Tehillim 19:9) states: “Yiras Hashem
Tehorah Omedes La’ad”.
----------------------------------------
V’ASAF ISH TAHOR:
In the Parasha of Parah Adumah, the Pasuk records V’Asaf Ish Tahor Es
Efer HaParah--a pure man shall gather the ash of the red heifer
(Bamidbar 19:9). The Ba’al HaTurim (ibid.) writes that in our day the
Tefillah of Tzaddikim can act as our own personal Assaf Ish Tahor….
We must take the lesson--and ask Tzaddikim to daven on our personal
behalves!
--------------------------------------------------
GENERATIONS!
How
many generations do you think there are from the time the second Luchos were
given in this week’s Parasha--and today? You may be relatively surprised to
see one sample chronology that we provide by the following link--http://www.hakhel.info/archivesPublicService/TorahTransmission.pdf
You are closer to Sinai then you think--and should be careful to keep the
chain in fine condition!
----------------------------------------------------------
A TIME
OF GIVING!
Parashas Ki Sisah, begins with the zechus of giving money to the right
causes--with one’s Shekalim being used for great and lofty purposes. Chazal
(Bava Basra 9B) teach that one who gives charity to a person in need is
blessed with Six Brachos--as rooted and demonstrated by the
Pesukim in Sefer Yeshaya. What an incredible rate of return! It
really is much better, however, for Chazal add--based upon a continuation of
the words of the Navi Yeshaya--that one who is Mefayso BiDevarim, one
who appeases the poor person with kind words and an uplifting spirit
receives an Additional Eleven Brachos--so that if one gives
money--and on top of that provides words of support and encouragement--He
is Zoche to Seventeen Brachos! With this, we should begin to appreciate
what our “Shekalim” do not only for the Ani--but for our very own Ruchniyus.
Our giving to others--is a gift to us from Hashem. So let us be careful as
we begin to give over the next several days--and always give with the right
attitude!
----------------------------------------------------------
EREV
SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
A. In
response to a question we posed to him, Rabbi Yisroel Pinchos Bodner, Shlita
rules that: “Moving muktza even if it moves only in its place is
prohibited. Touching muktza without causing it to move, wobble, or tilt is
permitted.”
B. In
this week’s Parasha, we find that the Torah requires that: “Veshomru Bnei
Yisrael Es HaShabbos--Bnei Yisrael shall observe the Shabbos,” to make
the Shabbos an eternal covenant for their generations (Shemos 31:16). This
Pasuk, together with the Pasuk which follows it, are so essential to our
understanding of Shabbos that we repeat them both at Ma’ariv and in
Shacharis on Shabbos. What is the concept of “Shemiras Shabbos?”
HaRav
Shlomo Mandel, once explained at a Hakhel shiur that a “shomer” is someone
who guards, watches out for, is on the alert, and anticipates. Indeed, the
Torah uses the concept of “Shemira” when it describes how Yaakov Avinu
responded to Yosef’s dreams. The Torah states: “V’Aviv Shamar Es
HaDavar--and his father [Yaakov Avinu] was waiting and anticipating for
[the dreams] to happen.” (Bereishis 37:11, and Rashi there)
This
is an extremely important lesson for us. The Torah requires us to be
“Shomrei Shabbos”. In order to fulfill this properly, we cannot start with
candle lighting and/or “Lecha Dodi”. Instead, we must appropriately prepare
our thoughts and actions, so that, to the greatest extent possible, we can
enter the Shabbos in a state of preparedness and equanimity--watching out
and anticipating for the Shabbos to come.
There
are many practical examples in which one can make strides towards this end.
For instance, one can, as much as possible, undertake Shabbos preparations
on Thursday evening and Friday morning. Additionally, business matters such
as taking care of bills, or even going through the mail, when it does not
require immediate attention, can become part of “Shemiras Shabbos” if they
are put off until Sunday or Monday. Interestingly, it was HaRav Aryeh Levin
Z’tl’s custom not to open letters that arrived Friday afternoon, so that
bothersome thoughts and worries should not trouble him on Shabbos (Growth
Through Torah p. 220, quoting A Tzaddik In Our Time p. 100).
There
are other activities which could help you become a superior “Shomer
Shabbos”. Making a list of the things that have to be done--and especially
those things which you have had issues with in the past--making sure you
have wine, candles, matches, open tissue boxes, clothes (without stains from
the previous week), Torah thoughts for the Shabbos table--and accomplishing
these, and many other items which could truly be taken care of, hours and
hours and even a day before Shabbos.
If a
man is more often late than on time for Mincha in Shul on Friday afternoon,
or if a woman customarily, or even usually, lights the neiros “just a minute
or two” after the published zeman, there is an indication of weakness
in his/her anticipating, watching out for, guarding, longing for, the
Shabbos that is coming. If the scene is one in which the husband is still
in the shower/bedroom area at candle lighting time, or the woman of the
house has to choose between davening Mincha before candle lighting--or
lighting neiros five minutes late, some corrections may be in order.
Indeed, the Shulchan Aruch, rather than requiring raised voices, anger, and
tension, immediately prior to Shabbos, instead requires that a person “arise
early” on Erev Shabbos to properly prepare (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim
250:1). In fact, the Mishna Berurah there requires that some Shabbos
preparation be done after davening Shacharis (and, if necessary, even before
Shacharis--see there). Furthermore--the Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 260:2)
actually requires that one speak “B’Lashon Raka” (in a soft voice)--immediately
before Shabbos(!)--even as to those matters which require correction
before Shabbos arrives.
In an
ideal world, Shemira would include being ready a few minutes in advance and
waiting for the Shabbos queen to come, by saying Tehillim, learning Torah,
or the like--just as the watchman watches and anticipates. For the men,
there are undoubtedly great zechusim to be had when one is not
dashing out the door to shul with suit jacket in hand, tie not made, and wet
hair. For the women, there is very much to be gained lighting neiros two or
three minutes before the zeman, instead of a minute or two or
three after the zeman. Each one of us should sit down and think
about how we can improve our quest for a greater appreciation, a greater
understanding, a greater accomplishment, in being a “Shomer Shabbos” Jew!
C. The Sefer Yereim writes that Hadlakas Neiros is “Gemara Gemiri La”--is
actually a Halachah LeMoshe MiSinai! Rebbe Akiva Eiger, Z’tl suggests that
men (Hakhel Note: or other able-bodied person) take part in the Mitzvah by
making sure that the Neiros are in fine order for the woman of the house to
light. We may add that this could include testing the candles and fixing
them well into the leichter, putting the matches in place, making the Sefer
with special Tefillos for the time readily available on the table--as the
time of Hadlakas Neiros is an Eis Ratzon, etc. The moment the Queen enters
is a powerful one--and a proper--and not hurried and hassled-- Hadlakas
Neiros is like the rolling out of a beautiful red carpet to meet her!
D.
For Shabbos morning laining (and when being ma’avir sedra): In the Parasha,
we find the following powerful Pasuk describing Moshe Rabbeinu’s initial
reaction to the events of the Chait HaEigel: ”VaYomer Ein Kol Anos Gevura
VeAin Kol Anos Chalusha Kol Anos Anochi Shomea--Moshe
Rabbeinu told Yehoshua “It is not a sound shouting strength nor a sound
shouting weakness--it is a sound of distress that I hear.” (Shemos 32:18)
HaRav Yisroel Belsky, Z’tl, teaches that the meaning of the word Anos the
third time it is mentioned in the Pasuk is different than the first
two times that it is mentioned. The first two times it means ‘sounding’, and
the third time it means ‘distress’--inui. It is truly a different
word--which is why there is a dagesh in the Nun of the third Anos of the
Pasuk, and not in the first two. Accordingly, to the extent possible--the
ba’al kriyah who is laining, and one being ma’avir sedra should read the
third occurrence as ANNOS and not as ANOS--i.e., with a greater accent or
drawing out of the nun, not actually making it onto a ‘double-nun’--but
extending it a bit--so that one recognizes and demonstrates the different
word being read!
E.
We provide below an extremely important thought provided in the past on our
unique and wonderful relationship to Veshomru Vnei Yisrael Es HaShabbos:
Shabbos is the only day of the week in which each Tefillah of Shemone Esrei
is different.
·
In the
evening, we recite “Ata Kidashta”--You have sanctified us.
·
In the
morning, we recite “Yismach Moshe”--Moshe was gladdened.
·
In the
afternoon, we recite “Ata Echad”--You are one…
The
Sefer Avudraham (1:163) asks--why is it only on Shabbos--and not on
the weekdays--or even on Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur or the Shalosh
Regalim--that the text of the Shemone Esrei changes at each one of the
Tefillos? The Avudraham provides an amazing answer. Because Shabbos
is called the “Kallah” (Bava Kama 32B), and Hakadosh Baruch Hu is called the
Choson, we first celebrate our initial participation in the Kiddushin, i.e.,
the commencement of the installment of Kedusha into Shabbos--by reciting
“Ata Kidashta” on Leil Shabbos. Indeed, it would seem that we joyously sing
Lecha Dodi just as we escort the Choson to greet the Kallah.
At
Shacharis, we recite “Yismach Moshe”--Moshe rejoiced--as the Choson’s and
Kallah’s and participants’ joy increases after the Chuppah, and as the
Chassuna progresses. We are now invited to take an even more active role in
the joy, as the Choson asks us to take good care of his precious Kallah and
we proudly continue by reciting “Veshomru Vnei Yisrael Es HaShabbos”.”
It is with the greatest honor and pleasure that we take the Choson’s
request to heart, mind and action. As Chazal teach, our Shabbos observance
is more important than even the building of the Bais Hamikdash (see Rashi,
Shemos 31:13). We hope and pray for the Bais Hamikdash daily--yet we cannot
violate Shabbos to attain it, because we have been asked to guard the
Kallah!
We
then continue with Mussaf, with the bringing of Korbanos as the “Seudas
Mitzvah.”
Finally, at Mincha we celebrate “Ata Echad”--the conclusion of the
Chassuna--and the resulting unity and oneness of the Choson and Kallah.
We may
add that just as when you come home from a really joyous, nice Chassuna, or
from the Chassuna of a close relative or friend, you bring the joy home with
you (compare this to the Melave Malka), and the joy lasts for a few days--or
even for the week, through the Sheva Brochos, so should our honored
participation in the Simchas Shabbos last for several days, or perhaps even
a week, until the next Shabbos--when we can once again experience
transcendent and sublime joy.
There
is no doubt that a direct correlation exists between the way we celebrate at
a Chassuna and its lasting effect upon us. If our celebration is centered
on the fish crepe, squash soup or well-done prime ribs in duck sauce, there
will definitely be some kind of lasting effect (at least somewhere in--or
on--the body!). But if we feel an internal joy out of genuine warmth and
oneness with the Choson and Kallah, the feeling will have even a greater
impact and most certainly endure for a longer period. The feeling of
closeness will cause you to “stay in contact” with the Choson and Kallah.
Similarly, Rav Shlome Wolbe, Z’tl, once commented, that while a tasty
Cholent is truly an important aspect of Shabbos, it should not in and of
itself be the highlight of this sacrosanct day. Instead, we should actually
try to establish the highlight of the day ourselves--our greatest moment of
joy with the Choson and Kallah at their celebration.
One’s
highlight should be something special and meaningful, and may be:
·
A
heartfelt Lecha Dodi or Zemiros with feeling or even intensity.
·
Learning Rashi, Ramban or Midrash or other commentaries on the Parasha. We
can always draw wellsprings of information on how to conduct ourselves
during the week by applying the Parasha’s timeless and timely lessons.
·
In
Shacharis, reciting Nishmas slowly, word by word, or feeling moved at “Kel
Adon” (not just waiting for the tune the Chazan will use).
·
Helping to make the Shabbos table warm and inspirational with a poignant
Devar Torah or lesson-filled story you have prepared.
·
Giving
meaningful advice or assistance to a Shabbos guest.
So, as
we shower, shine our shoes, set the table or otherwise prepare for the great
Chassuna this Shabbos, or even when we are at the Chassuna itself, let us go
beyond the delectable kugels and cakes and pleasant and refreshing Shabbos
nap, and think about how and what we will do this Shabbos that will permeate
and elevate us and leave a supernal effect upon us through the week!
-----------------------------------------
A
LESSON FROM THE NECK:
In the Parasha we learn of the horrific sin of the Golden Calf. In its
aftermath, Hashem tells Moshe Rabbeinu: “Say to Bnei Yisrael--you are a
stiff-necked people…” (Shemos 33:5). In fact, this exact same description
of our “stiff-neckedness” is repeated two other times in the Parasha (Shemos
33:3 and 34:9). Likewise, in the Viduy we recite “Kishinu Oref--we have
been stiff-necked.” There is a very important message here for us. The
neck, as opposed to the front, symbolizes the back of the person and shows
that the person is turned away from someone, rather than facing him. It is
our job not to turn away from what we have done, and certainly not to turn
away from Hashem. Instead, we must face that which we have done with a plan
to improve, and face Hashem asking Him for nothing less than Divine
assistance going forward.
We
believe that there is also a vital second lesson: The Torah is teaching
that the heinous “Chait Haegel” is related to being obstinate and
inflexible. In our stubbornness, we must be careful to distinguish between
fact and opinion, between “teaching lessons to others” and learning to
control our self-interest or pride. It is now a very auspicious time to
deal with this middah, in order to indicate that we, on our own personal
level and in our own private way, are looking to correct the
stiff-neckedness within us--and our recognition that obstinacy could
eventually result in something that is catastrophic, r’l. If our
actions are “just because” or “because that is the way I do things” or
because “I know I am right” or “because I don’t do it that way”… (you can
fill in another phrase that better summarizes your own stiff-neckedness)
then we may have to work on some adjustments in attitude.
Of
course, being tough in some areas is good--such as not flinching from the
requirements of Halacha or proper Hashkafa in spite of work, financial or
even social pressures to do so. However, Chazal advise specifically that “a
person should be soft as a reed, and not hard as a cedar tree” (Taanis 20B).
Reeds are malleable and do not break--even in the face of a harsh wind or
thunderous storm. Incredibly, the mighty cedar may fall earlier than the
thin little reed. Let us take this lesson to heart as we practice acting
with more pleasance than presence, the way Hashem would like us to!
-----------------------------------------
MORE
NOTES ON THE PARASHA:
We present several additional points from Parashas Ki Sisa to apply (and
hopefully inculcate within ourselves) over the coming week:
A.
The Pasuk teaches that the letters on the Luchos were engraved through and
through, and that, by Miracle, they could be read from both sides although
the writing was not reversed. HaRav Pam, Z’tl, as quoted by Rabbi Sholom
Smith, Shlita, brings the following important lesson relating to this
Miracle: HaRav Chaim Elazar Wachs, Z’tl, (the “Nefesh Chayah”) was a
partner in a paper factory. His partner came to him with an idea that would
bring him a great deal of profit in a short amount of time. When the
partner presented all of the details, HaRav Wachs concluded that the idea
involved some degree of impropriety, and bordered on geneiva. His partner
still wanted to go ahead with the “get-rich-quick” scheme. HaRav Wachs
exclaimed, “Don’t you realize why the Luchos had to be readable from
either side?! Because no matter which way you turn the Luchos--you have
to see the Lo Signov!” [In Yiddish: “Az men dreit a hin, oder men dreit a
heir, es shteit noch ales Lo Signov!”] We may all be faced with the
temptations of improprieties--some bigger and some smaller. We must,
however, realize that the Luchos preceded these temptations and
manipulations--and covers them from whatever angle they may be coming!
B.
Chazal (Rosh Hashanah 17B) teach of the great power of the Thirteen Middos
of Rachamim found in the Parasha (Shemos 34:6, 7), which are first
introduced to us after the Chait HaEgel. Indeed, their introduction to us
after the Eigel indicates their great potency--as we are kept going as a
nation after such a devastating aveira. The Netziv makes an amazing point
as to one of these Middos. He writes that it is not correct to read this
Middah as “Rav Chesed” and then simply continue with “Emes”, as the next
Middah. Instead, and in fact, the word “Rav” modifies BOTH Chesed and Emes--for
Hashem not only provides Abundant Chesed but also Abundant Truth. It is
this Middah that we must emulate--not to allow ourselves into the singular
comfort of “Rav Chesed” which we are so incredibly blessed with in K’lal
Yisrael--but also to be the Rav Emes--being an overflowing source of Truth
as well!
C.
The Taz asks what is the Attribute of Mercy contained in the word “Lo
Yinakeh”. We know that Yinakeh means that Hashem cleanses the sin of one
who does Teshuva--but how is the Lo Yinakeh--Not Cleansing the Sin--helpful
to us? The Taz answers that it means that Hashem will not eliminate the sin
and may punish the sinner somewhat --but still waits for him to do Teshuva,
and in the interim does not give him the punishment that he truly otherwise
deserves. There are thirteen different levels of Mercy--it is up to us to
determine which levels of Mercy we will be zoche to--we do not have to be at
the bottom of the class--so why should we put ourselves there? Teshuva is a
much better alternative!
D.
HaRav Moshe Rosenshein, Z’tl, approached his great Rebbe, the Mashgiach of
Mir, HaRav Yeruchem Levovitz, Z’tl, and asked him to explain the Chait
HaEigel to him. After much study of the topic, HaRav Rosenshein was
expecting a greatly detailed and long explanation from his Rebbe of what had
transpired here. HaRav Yeruchem answered with Two Words. The Two Words....Yetzer
Hara! After all, could it make any sense that a people who owed so much to
Moshe Rabbeinu would believe that he died--and almost immediately start to
wildly party? As we say in the Lechu Nerannena at the outset of Kabbalas
Shabbos (Tehillim 95) “Va’Omar Am To’ei Levev Haim...--and I said they are a
people who are mistaken of heart...”. The Yetzer Hara’s effects were so
devastating that the sin of the Golden Calf burdens us to this very day.
There is a great lesson for us all here. If we could remind ourselves when
making any daily decision that we must realize which side of the decision
the Yetzer Hara is on--we can take a great step--on a daily basis--to
overcoming, overriding and overruling the Chait HaEigel itself. What an
accomplishment! What a great and enormous potential every day brings with
it!
===============================
18 Adar
TAKING A STEP BACK:
The Gemara in Megillah (11A) lists numerous pasukim which various Tanaim and
Amoraim used to begin their drashos about Purim. Rabbi Yochanan used a
posuk from Tehillim (98,3), “Zachar Chasdo V’Emunaso…He recalled His
kindness and faithful pledge to the House of Israel, all ends of the earth
have seen the salvation of Hashem.” [Artscroll translation]. Rabbi Menachem
Zupnik, Shlita, asked how this could relate to the story of Megillas
Esther--in which Hashem’s Name is not mentioned. How could all ends of the
earth acknowledge it was from Hashem? He answered by quoting the Chasam
Sofer on this week’s Parasha (Shemos 33, 23), V’raisah achorai, in
which the Chasam Sofer explains the posuk homiletically to refer to the fact
that often while events around us are unfolding, it is difficult to see Hashem’s
Hand at work. However, with hindsight, after the events, we can clearly
see how He directed it all “from the back,”--for after the second letter was
dispatched those living at the time were able to see His actions clearly in
all that had occurred!
-------------------------------------------
MORDECHAI AND ESTHER:
At the end of Shemone Esrei, prior to taking three steps back, many recite a
Pasuk whose first letter is the first letter of their name, and whose last
letter is the last letter of their name. Fascinatingly, one whose name is
Mordechai recites the Pasuk (Tehillim 119:97): “Mah Ahavti Sorasecha Kol
HaYom He Sichasi--How I love Your Torah--it is what I talk about all
day.” Although Chazal teach that some members of the Sanhedrin separated
themselves from Mordechai because of his governmental affairs, many may
mistakenly believe that Mordechai was greatly diverted from his attention to
Torah because of his involvement with the king. We suggest that this Pasuk
teaches us that Mordechai’s clear essence was Torah--and not even being
second-to-the- king could change that. Hakhel Note: To follow suit, if
your name is not Esther--it most certainly pays to look up the Pasuk for
Esther and see how beautifully it applies to her role and her teaching as
well!
---------------------------------------------------------------
NOW THAT WE ARE IN THE SECOND HALF OF THE MONTH OF ADAR: Is Chazal’s teaching of
Mishe Nichnas Adar Marbim B’Simcha in the same force and effect as it
was prior to Purim? Rashi (Ta’anis 29A) explains that the reason we increase
our Simcha in Adar is because: “Yemei Nissim HaYu LeYisrael Purim
U’Pesach--these are days of miracles for K’lal Yisrael--Purim and
Pesach.” HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, explains that the Mitzvah of Simcha
continues all-the-way through Pesach because the common thread and theme is
one of Nissim that Hashem performs on our behalf, and the Geulah that
results. A closer focus at this common thread, he continues, shows that our
Yeshuah comes only from Hashem--and that the thought that our actions aid or
assist in any way are both foolish and untrue. In fact, HaRav Friedlander
teaches, although there were still 11 months left before the decree against
the Jews was to take effect, and although Esther could have waited until the
king called for her rather than risk her life--Mordechai and Esther both
wanted to demonstrate (each in their own way)--through the sack cloth,
fasting, Tefillos and life-risking actions that they realized that
everything was dependent on the Yeshuas Hashem. We likewise read in the
Haggadah that when Hashem took us out of Mitzrayim, it was Lo Ahl Yedei
Malach, Lo Ahl Yedei Saraf, VeLo Ahl Yedei Shaliach--but
Hashem in His honor and by Himself took us out. Accordingly, in this period
between Purim and Pesach, our joy should continue to build as we recognize
that we are so especially and uniquely privileged to be in Hashem’s loving
hands-and that He will likewise perform Nissim on our behalf to bring us the
Geulah Sheleimah!
---------------------------------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH:
We
continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially spiritual
period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach!
The following halachos are culled from the Mishna Berurah, Dirshu Edition
(Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 433).
Of course, one should in all events consult with his own Rav or Posek
pertaining to his particular facts or circumstances:
A. Even though the general rule is safeik d’rabanan lekulah, when it
comes to Bedikas Chometz, one should not be lenient in the event of
safeik--for the entire takanah is to check and clarify that no
Chometz remains (Dirshu Note 22).
B. If one lives in a condominium building, his obligation to check the
stairway reaches only until his floor and his apartment. Even though one
pays the common area charges for the entire building--that is just a matter
of the agreement of the parties (Dirshu Note 16).
C. In a house where there are children, one is obligated to check the
bathroom and bath for Chometz--as although adults would not bring food into
these areas, it is likely that children do so (ibid., Dirshu Note 18).
However, with respect to places where the crevice is too narrow for one’s
hand to enter (such as between a heavy bookshelf and a cabinet and a wall),
one does not have to move away the heavy bookshelf or wall--and instead can
rely on his bitul). This would be true even if one knows that something
valuable fell behind the cabinet he would move it (Dirshu Note 25).
---------------------------------------------------------------
YAHRZEIT OF THE YESOD V’SHORESH HA’AVODAH:
Today (18 Adar) is the Yahrzeit of the Yesod V’Shoresh Ha’avodah (R’
Alexander Siskin B’ R’ Moshe, Z’tl). We present below several of his
always-moving teachings:
1. The ikar for which man is created it to give Nachas Ruach
to Hashem. Accordingly, a dedicated focus in one’s life should be on
increasing Nachas Ruach to Hashem with all of one’s actions at all
times.
2. Dovid HaMelech exclaims (we recite it every day in Pesukei D’Zimra--
Tehillim 146:2): “Ahallelah Es Hashem Bechaiyai Azamrah Leilokai B’odi--I
will praise Hashem while I live, I will make music to Hashem while I exist.”
One must realize that all of Tehillim was written with Ruach HaKodesh, and
when one recites these words, he must express them with true feeling.
How can one mouth words such as these-- Ahallelah Es Hashem Bechaiyai--without
meaning them? In fact, we should know that Hashem actually has greater
nachas when we recite words of thanksgiving and praise to Him than
when Heavenly beings do!
3. When one sees or hears something which is inappropriate it impacts upon
his machshava--his thoughts which emanate from a holy and higher
world. Accordingly, when his thoughts below are impugned--then it incredibly
also leaves a pegam, a negative impact in the higher world as well.
4. When one realizes his mind is clean of any other thoughts and cannot
otherwise focus, he should think with great joy: “Hareini Ma’amin
B’Emunah Sheleimah She’atah Yachid U’Meyuchad--I believe with complete
faith that Hashem is One and Only.” Likewise, one can think (even in unclean
places) about ways in which he can help his friend--in fact, even if one
feels happy over the happiness of his friend or feels pain (if c’v
his friend is pained), he makes constructive use of his time--and actually
fulfills a Mitzvah of V’Ahavta L’Reiacha Kamocha!
5. Before beginning Shemone Esrei at Shacharis, a man should touch his
Tefillin Shel Rosh and think: “Zeh Ha’os Sheatah Yachid U’meyuchad
V’Sheatah Yotzeis Mimitzrayim--this is the sign that You are One and
Only and have taken us out of Egypt”.
6. Before beginning to learn a Mussar Sefer, one should state why he is
learning--in order to have Yiras Shomayim, to grow spiritually and properly
perform the Mitzvos and give nachas to Hashem. For the actual Nusach of the
Yesod V’Shoresh Ha’avodah see Sha’ar Shishi--Kavanas Limud Sefer
Yerei’im.
7. If one realizes that he has sinned in some way--whether it be by an
action, word or thought, he should recite Viduy over it immediately--as the
Zohar mentions in many places that the Vidui alone accomplishes much in the
upper worlds.
8. When one recites a Borei Nefashos, he should have in mind the specific
items of food over which he is reciting it (let us say a fruit and a
drink)--and not just take it as general words of appreciation. Moreover,
when reciting the words Baruch Chei Ha’olamim at the end of Borei Nefashos,
one should feel great joy that Hashem is the Lifegiver to all worlds--and we
benefit from this every second of the day.
9. When beginning the second bracha of bentsching--Nodeh Lecha Hashem
Elokeinu, one should stop for a moment and not immediately rush into the
next words. Rather, one should feel joy over the gifts that Hashem has given
him, and then begin to enumerate some of the great ones listed in
bentsching. Similarly, when beginning the third bracha in which we ask
Hashem to have mercy--we should make sure to highlight each item for mercy
separately--(i) Ahl Yisrael Amecha, (i) V’Ahl Yerushalayim Irecha,
(iii) V’Ahl Tzion Mishkan Kevodecha, (iv) V’Ahl Malchus Beis Dovid
Meshichecha, and (v) V’Ahl HaBayis HaGadol Ve’Hakadosh.
10. In this week’s Haftarah--the Haftarah for Parashas Parah, one should
appreciate the great consolations that are mentioned: “Venasati Lachem
Lev Chadash”, “Ve’es Ruchi Etein Bekirbichem”. Indeed, one should
strengthen himself by studying pesukim of consolation in Tanach such as
Yirmiyah 31:31 et al.; Yechezkel 11: 17 et al., 37:24-37 and 37:21. One
should also see the end of Sefer Amos, Micha Chapter 4, Tzefanyah 3:8 et
al., Zechariah 8 and 14; the end of Sefer Malachi; and Yoel 3. Review all of
these consolations--get chizuk--and do Teshuvah as soon as possible! Let us
not be too late!
---------------------------------------------------------------
YAHRZEIT OF
HARAV CHATZKEL LEVENSTEIN, Z’TL:
Today is the Yahrzeit of Chatzkel (HaRav Yechezkel B’ Reb Yehudah HaLevi)
Levenstein, Z’tl, the great Mashgiach in Mir and Ponovezh. A disciple of
HaRav Chatzkel related, “I once saw Rav Chatzkel in a state of extreme
happiness, and asked him for the reason.” HaRav Chatzkel replied: “Someone
greatly insulted me today, and I didn’t say anything in return. For this I
am joyful” (Marbitzai Torah U’Mussar, Vol. 4, p.212, as published in
Love Your Neighbor).
The following excerpt is from a truly remarkable sefer entitled Reb
Chatzkel, on the life of Rabbi Yechezkel Levenstein, Z’tl, by Rabbi
Yitzchak Kasnett (Artscroll, 2007). This sefer is very highly recommended:
“On the way to Japan, the Mashgiach (Rabbi Levenstein, Z’tl) 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 the consequences of exile, we find that no nation
other than K’lal Yisrael remains in existence after any appreciable time in
exile. The Midrash relates that Hashem Yisborach asked Avraham Avinu what
punishment he chooses for his children when they will sin and there is no
Beis HaMikdash to atone for their wrongdoing--exile or purgatory. According
to one opinion quoted in the Midrash, Avraham was unable to answer. Thus, in
practical terms, the consequences of exile and purgatory are strongly
equated. Contrary to our understanding of exile, the deleterious effect of
exile 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.’” (Page 142)
Hakhel Note: As HaRav Chatzkel studied in Kelm as well, the book brings the
following great teaching that we can all easily utilize in our daily lives:
The following was one of the rules that were in effect in the Kelm Talmud
Torah:
“To be careful not to say a Bracha hastily; therefore before making a Bracha,
one must think:
What Bracha do I need to make?
Before Whom am I making this Bracha?”
---------------------------------------------------------------
REMINDER--THE BEST OPPORTUNITIES ARE OFTEN FREE: As
we are now less than four weeks away from Pesach, may we recommend the study
of the Sefer Mesilas Yeshorim--which can be completed in less than
one month by dividing it into short segments (let us say five (5) pages a
day). The benefit of especially studying a Mussar Sefer at this time is
twofold. Firstly, it will keep one in the right frame of mind during a
period which could get stressful or pressured. Secondly, it will help ready
you for the redemption that you yourself will experience on Pesach (and
hopefully even sooner). The spiritual preparation for Pesach should by NO
MEANS play second fiddle to the physical preparations that so many of us
have already (or wish they had!) begun. The next few weeks will pass by
quickly--don’t let them pass you by!
================================
17 Adar
IMMEDIATE INSPIRATION FOR THIS TIME OF YEAR!
We urge you to take out a Sefer
Tehillim and recite the words of Tehillim, Chapter 40, Pasuk 6. How
moving! How especially timely! Keep the Pasuk handy!
---------------------------------------------------------------
FROM OUR READERS:
1. “This year as we read the second time
hanging of Haman’s sons and I recalled the remez of the Nuremberg trials I
noticed the Pasuk saying Ubaviza Lo Shalchu ... Perhaps a hint to our
refusal to use items made in Germany .. Also maybe obviously as days come
close to year 6000 there are only a couple of dafim left in the megillah ...
Would be nice to know what they mean ... “
2. “I heard from Rabbi Shmuel Zev Friedman
that Rav Tzvi Pesach Frank asks... why didn’t Achashverosh take the money?
Why does it say Mordechai told Esther about the silver “that he said”? And
why does Esther say “we were ‘sold’ to death”?
“One answer ties them all together... Haman didn’t just want the
Jews dead, he also wanted to be king, and he tried to undermine
Achashverosh. Achashverosh didn’t take the silver, because it was important
that the king could not be “bought”. He could hate the Jews, but he was a
king, and he could not be influenced by mere silver.
“Haman, however, TOLD people that the king had accepted the silver,
thereby painting him as a petty monarch who could be bought or bribed...
that fits in with the words or Mordechai, and explains why Achashverosh was
so appalled that the Jews had been “sold”. He knew Haman wanted the Jews
dead... he didn’t know that Haman had tried to undermine him by telling
people that the king had taken silver to exterminate the Jews. That’s why he
was so angry.
“Beautiful, no?”
-------------------------------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially
spiritual period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach! The following
halachos are culled from the Mishna Berurah, Dirshu Edition (Shulchan Aruch
Orach Chaim 432-433):
A. L’Halacha, if one undertakes Bedikas
Chometz and actually finds no Chometz at all, the bracha of Ahl Bi’ur
Chometz that was recited at the outset of the bedikah is not a
bracha l’vatalah--firstly, because the Mitzvah is to check and search and if
one does not find it does not matter; and secondly, the bracha actually
refers to Bi’ur Chometz--which will occur the next day in the
morning--which may consist of the leftovers of what he has eaten prior to
the bi’ur. Nevertheless, the Chok Yaakov writes that the Minhag
Yisrael of putting out ten pieces should not be stopped and gives reasons
for it. The Arizal also provides a reason for the Minhag. In the words of
the Ba’er Heiteiv it is a Sod Gadol. For those who have the
custom--the Mishna Berurah cautions that one be careful not to lose any of
the pieces (ibid., Mishna Berurah seif katan 12)! If one performs his
bedikah before the night of the 14th (i.e., because he is
going away for Pesach), there is a Machlokes HaPoskim as to whether he
should keep his minhag regarding the ten pieces at the early bedikah.
(ibid., Dirshu Note 17)
B. If one performs the bedikah by the
light of a torch or other large fire, and not by the light of a single
candle, the bedikah is ineffective and one must perform the
bedikah again (ibid., 433, Mishna Berurah seif katan 10).
C. If one forgot to make the bracha of Ahl
Bi’ur Chometz at the time of bedikah, there is a Machlokes
Haposkim as to whether he can still make the bracha before burning the
Chometz. The Mishna Berurah rules that if one wants to rely on those who
hold that one may recite the bracha at the time of bi’ur, ain
mochin bo--we do not rebuke him for doing so (ibid., Dirshu Note 5).
---------------------------------------------------------------
AN IMPORTANT TWO WEEKS!:
A we recently noted, it is fascinating that Rav Amram Gaon writes that the
Minhag in the two main yeshivos during the time of the Geonim, Sura and
Pumbedisa, was to actually recite Tachanun on Purim--“for it is a day of
miracles, and upon which we were redeemed, and so we must ask for mercy that
we will be redeemed in the end in the same way that we were initially
redeemed.” As we have just entered the portal between the Geulah of Purim
and the Geulah of Mitzraim, a time in which for the next two weeks we will
all be reciting Tachanun and/or other prayers for Geulah, we should be very
mindful to recite them with strong and special Kavannah because, without
mincing words, it is, simply stated, a time of Geulah. Everyone should try
and keep a daily record, or at least a real mental note, of the special and
sincere prayers he has made for the Geulah during this auspicious period.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
SEIZE THE MOMENT!: The best opportunities are often free. As we are now less than
four weeks away from Pesach, may we recommend the study of the Sefer
Mesilas Yeshorim--which can be completed in less than one month by
dividing it into short segments (let us say five (5) pages a day). The
benefit of especially studying a Mussar Sefer at this time is twofold. Firstly,
it will keep one in the right frame of mind during a period which could get
stressful or pressured. Secondly, it will help ready you for the redemption
that you yourself will experience on Pesach (and hopefully even sooner).
The spiritual preparation for Pesach should by NO MEANS play second fiddle
to the physical preparations that so many of us have already (or wish they
had!) begun. The next few weeks will pass by quickly--don’t let them pass
you by!
---------------------------------------------------------------
GIFTS!: Some
Poskim write that the Mishloach Manos that we give on Purim--two gifts to
one person, is based upon Achashveirosh giving to Esther two gifts--his
royal ring, and the House of Haman. Thus, we remember these very, very
significant gifts with gifts of such items as hamantashen, wine, challah,
snacks from all over the world, and various assorted trifles and dainties.
Perhaps we can take this “gifted” lesson through the year, and every time
that we receive a gift, whether large or small and whether tangible or in
the form of a compliment or other intangible item, and be sure to pass on
that gift in some form to someone else. The gifts one receives and that one
gives may not necessarily be comparable at all, but in more cases than you
may think, they may be just as memorable!
Additional Note: As we leave Purim, let us make a short list of
practical lessons that we will take with us. It is interesting to note that
in the Al HaNissim, we highlight that Purim is in the ‘twelfth month of the
year’. Why this emphasis? We may simply suggest that --as it is the last
month of the year, it is important to ensure that we take teachings with us
into the first month of Nissan--and that we don’t start the first month
empty-handed. Hakaras Hatov, Ahavas HaBrios...and Ahavas Hashem
itself are most certainly three of these great lessons we should take
with us in a practical and meaningful way!
-----------------------------------------------------------------
KIYMU VEKIBLU!:
Let us take one additional look at Kiymu VeKiblu. Before learning,
simply take a moment to dedicate and devote yourself to the study or the
Shiur itself--forgetting about work, old issues, new problems, the last
phone call or email, what you still have to do today, the mistake you
recently made and how you can correct it, how to do this or say that--and
instead and instead to wholly focus with joy only on Hashem’s Torah--because
this is really what Hashem wants. It is reported that the Steipeler Gaon,
Z’tl, who heard so many of the world’s problems, said that the only way he
could learn effectively with so much weighing down upon him, was by simply
putting everything else out of mind and devoting the precious time in front
of him to pure study. A simple--but very effective--way for us to take
Kiymu VeKiblu with us throughout the year!
In order for us to better appreciate the
tremendous importance of any Kiymu VeKiblu Kabbalah (bli neder), we
provide special insights from the Chofetz Chaim into the greatness of
Torah (found in the Sha’ar HaTorah, Chapter 1, of the Sefer Shemiras
HaLashon):
1. Chazal teach that there are 600,000
explanations of each Pasuk of the Torah.
2. The light that emanates from the names of
HaKadosh Baruch Hu above emanates for 420,000,000 parsa’os.
3. The reason that the Parashios of the Torah
are not in chronological order is because if they would be--anyone who
read them would be able to be mechayeih meisim and perform wonders.
4. A person should reflect upon the fact
that if he was to receive a letter from the king which was difficult to
read, or which required further study--how much time and effort he would put
into understanding the king’s directive. How much more so when it comes to
the eternal teachings of the King of all Kings-- the Torah--of which we
openly aver: “Ki Heim Chayeinu V’Orech Yameinu--for it is our
life and the length of our days!”
5. The Pasuk (Tehillim 62:13) states: “U’lecha
Hashem Chosed Ki Atta Teshaleim Le’ish KeMa’aseihu--You Hashem are
kind--for You repay a person according to his deeds.” Many ask--what is the
kindness that the Pasuk is referring to--after all, if a person does Mitzvos,
isn’t it just for him to be rewarded for them? The Chofetz Chaim answers
with a potent Mashal: If a person would invent a machine which could build
an entire city in a day from scratch, and would bring this machine to the
king, the king would surely reward him very handsomely. The king, however,
would in no event gift to him the cities that were built through the
machine, or even all of the cities by the inventor’s name. After all, it is
the king who is building and outfitting the cities--and they are all within
his province and domain. Not so with Hashem. Although it is Hashem Who is of
course empowering creation at every moment, He in His chesed deems it
as if the one studying Torah is the one who is empowering the world--for by
doing so he is fulfilling the purpose of creation . This is the
incredible meaning of the word KeMa’aseihu in the Pasuk--Hashem
treats the student of Torah as the one who is keeping the world going--as if
he himself is continuously creating it!
6. The Zohar (Parashas Shelach) teaches that
one who is oseik in Torah is considered as if he brought all of
the Karbanos before Hashem, and Hashem provides multiples kisa’os for
him in Olam Haba.
7. The Zohar (Parashas Vayeishev) also
teaches that for one who is oseik in Torah, the gates preventing
his neshama from going to higher locations break until it gets to its
rightful place, and the Torah continues to protect him and is melamed
zechus on him until Techiyas HaMeisim.
8. Because the Torah is composed of the
names of Hashem, one who is oseik in Torah is considered as if he
is oseik in the Shem Hashem itself.
9. The Zohar (Parashas Pinchas) writes that
there is no joy to Hashem but for one who is oseik in Torah--and if
one stays up at night to study--his study is listened to by the Tzaddikim
in Gan Eden, with Hashem’s presence in their midst.
10. The Zohar (Parashas Bereishis) writes
that one who actually moves his lips reciting the words of Torah as
he studies is considered like a Malach on earth--as the Pasuk (Tehillim
103:20) states: “Barchu Hashem Malachav Giborei Koach..--blessed are
you, the Malochim who do the will of Hashem...”
Hakhel Note: Kiymu V’Kiblu--let us be
sure to make it an essential part of our daily life!
===============================
16 Adar
LAST CALL: MISHNAYOS MESECHTA PESACHIM: If
you start today and learn just three Mishnayos a day--you will
still complete the entire Mishnayos Mesechta Pesachim--for Pesach! Be a part
of it!
---------------------------------------------------------------
WHY DID ACHASHVEIROSH’S PARTY HAVE NO MUSIC?
HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita,
answers this question beautifully. Although the Megillah goes to great
lengths to describe the ambiance of the party, the tapestries, the
furniture, the wealth… description of the music is, in fact, missing for a
very important reason. Achashveirosh’s purpose with the party described at
the outset of the Megillah was to ensnare the Jews in sin with forbidden
food, drink, etc. However, music channels into a person’s heart. If the
person has Taharas HaLev, then even music performed with evil designs and
ill-intent will be transformed in a positive way. Achashveirosh was fearful
that the Jews would take any music that was played and purify it--nullifying
his designs. He therefore determined that no music at all be played at the
lavish event!
Hakhel Note: Even Achashveirosh realized--Mi K’Amecha Yisrael!
---------------------------------------------------------------
REMINDER!
As we are now less than 30 days before Pesach, we should try to learn the
Halachos of Pesach (including the Halachos of the Seder) from a practical
Sefer. To some, it can be the Mishna Berurah or the Aruch HaShulchan; to
others it can be an English Sefer such as The Halachos of Pesach,
by Rabbi Shimon Eider, Z’tl. The importance of studying the Halachos
within the 30 days before Pesach is highlighted by the Mishna Berurah
(Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 429 seif katan 1), who writes that the source
for the 30 day study period is actually found in the Torah itself (see
ibid.). As noted yesterday, we intend to provide two to three short Halachos
per day. This should not of course serve as a replacement of one’s own
study, but only as a supplement for our collective use. The following
halachos are culled from the Mishna Berurah, Dirshu Edition (Shulchan Aruch
Orach Chaim 432):
A. Bedikdas Chometz is the first step on Erev Pesach in ridding ourselves of
Chometz possessions. Indeed, it is part of a large process of Biur
Chometz--the destruction of Chometz. Accordingly, the bracha one recites at
the outset of Bedikas Chometz is Ahl Biur Chometz. The Pri Megadim
rules that if one recited the bracha of Ahl Bedikas Chometz--he is
not Yotzei. We do not recite a Shehechiyanu at Bedikas Chometz, because its
purpose is for Chag HaPesach itself--and we rely on the Shehechiyanu made on
the Leil HaSeder (similar to one building the Sukkah who relies on the
Shehechiyanu made on the first night of Sukkos). (Dirshu Notes 1 and 5)
B. Although one should not interrupt the bedika, if one needs to take care
of his bodily functions during Bedikas Chometz, HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, rules
that he recites an Asher Yatzar. HaRav Wosner, y’blcht, adds that one
can even answer Amen and Baruch Hu U’Varuch Shemo to the brachos of others,
and make brachos over thunder and lightning as well. (Dirshu Note 8)
C. Accordingly to the Shulchan Aruch HaRav, the obligation to check
for Chometz in places where there is regularly Chometz is MiD’Oraysa if one
is not mevatel his Chometz, but for places in which Chometz is not
usually stored or used but where it is possible that Chometz may have been
brought--even if one is not mevatel his Chometz, the chiyuv is MiD’Rabanan.
(Dirshu Note 15)
---------------------------------------------------------------
THE SIXTEENTH OF ADAR:
Chazal teach that we learn from the words “Velo Yaavor” contained in
the Megillah that if one had not read the Megillah by the 15th,
he could not go beyond that date and read the Megillah on the 16th
or at any future date in Adar. From the fact that Chazal had to derive this
teaching from a Pasuk, and that otherwise we would be correct in assuming
that if we had not already done so, we could read the Megillah today as
well--we see that we are still very much within the spirit and verve of
Purim and Shushan Purim. Accordingly, we provide the following additional
post-Purim points and questions for thought. Your answers and comments are
most welcome, as well as your novellae from Purim and the Megillah:
A. As we know, Esther risked her life by going to the Chatzer Hapenimis--the
inner courtyard in front of the king’s throne room. The general consequence
for one who did so without being called by the king was death. Yet, a short
while later, Haman came to see the king and simply went to the Chatzer
Hachitzona--the outer courtyard, in order to ask the king to be allowed
to hang Mordechai on the tree he had prepared. The king asked: “Mi
Vehchatzer--who is in the courtyard?” Apparently, going to the outer
courtyard was not punishable by death--as Haman did so and the king merely
asked “Who is in the courtyard?” and let him in. This being the case, why
didn’t Esther simply go to the outer courtyard--instead of going through the
life-endangering experience of appearing in front of the king in the
Chatzer Hapenimis?
B. The Pasuk (Esther 7:7) relates that when Esther told Achashveirosh of
her request, and that it was Haman who was intending to exterminate her
people, the king was “Kahm Bechamaso--he rose in a rage.” What was
his rage about--after all, did he not know about the decree against the
Jews? Had he not in fact granted this right to Haman--gratis?
C. At the end of Shemone Esrei, prior to taking three steps back, many
recite a Pasuk whose first letter is the first letter of their name, and
whose last letter is the last letter of their name. Fascinatingly, one
whose name is Mordechai recites the Pasuk (Tehillim 119:97): “Mah Ahavti
Sorasecha Kol HaYom He Sichasi--How I love Your Torah--it is what I talk
about all day.” Although Chazal teach that some members of the Sanhedrin
separated themselves from Mordechai because of his governmental affairs,
many may mistakenly believe that Mordechai was greatly diverted from his
attention to Torah because of his involvement with the king. We suggest
that this Pasuk teaches us that Mordechai’s clear essence was Torah--and not
even being second-to-the- king could change that. Hakhel Note: To follow
suit, if your name is not Esther--it most certainly pays to look up the
Pasuk for Esther and see how beautifully it applies to her role and her
teaching as well!
D. Now that we are in the second half of the month of Adar, is Chazal’s
teaching of Mishe Nichnas Adar Marbim B’Simcha in the same force and
effect as it was prior to Purim? Rashi (Ta’anis 29A) explains that the
reason we increase our Simcha in Adar is because: “Yemei Nissim HaYu
LeYisrael Purim U’Pesach--these are days of miracles for K’lal
Yisrael--Purim and Pesach.” HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, explains that
the Mitzvah of Simcha continues all-the-way through Pesach because the
common thread and theme is one of Nissim that Hashem performs on our behalf,
and the Geulah that results. A closer focus at this common thread, he
continues, shows that our Yeshuah comes only from Hashem--and that the
thought that our actions aid or assist in any way are both foolish and
untrue. In fact, HaRav Friedlander teaches, although there were still 11
months left before the decree against the Jews was to take effect, and
although Esther could have waited until the king called for her rather than
risk her life--Mordechai and Esther both wanted to demonstrate (each in
their own way)--through the sack cloth, fasting, Tefillos and life-risking
actions that they realized that everything was dependent on the
Yeshuas Hashem. We likewise read in the Haggadah that when Hashem took us
out of Mitzrayim, it was Lo Ahl Yedei Malach, Lo Ahl Yedei Saraf,
VeLo Ahl Yedei Shaliach--but Hashem in His honor and by Himself took
us out. Accordingly, in this period between Purim and Pesach, our joy
should continue to build as we recognize that we are so especially and
uniquely privileged to be in Hashem’s loving hands-and that He will likewise
perform Nissim on our behalf to bring us the Geulah Sheleimah!
Hakhel Note: For personal Chizuk in Emunah, we once again provide the
number of the Daily Chizuk Hotline:
Dial
(605) 475-4799,
access code 840886#--which
provides a thoughtful three-minute message daily--bolstering the awareness
of Yeshuas Hashem in our daily lives!
---------------------------------------------------------------
HAPPY
AND GLAD OF HEART:
Imagine how you would feel the day you won the lottery! It would make no
difference whether it was $45 million, $161 million or $276 million. A
spirit of overflowing glee and insurmountable joy would exude from every
part of your being. Undoubtedly, the unquashed, exuberant feeling would
last for at least a day or so, and would only slightly wane over the next
several days and weeks. In a more spiritual vein, the feeling of spiritual
purity attained after Yom Kippur likewise continues with us in the days that
follow as we try to not let go of our elevated plane. The days after Purim
are unique in that they combine the thrill of our physical lives being
spared together with the spiritual elevation attained from an understanding
of the Megillah’s events, and the profound lessons to be learned from the
Mitzvos performed on Purim day. At the very least, we should now be
experiencing the joy of being alive--and of having the zechus of making the
most of our precious life through the study of Torah and performance of
Mitzvos.
The
Megillah relates that after Haman was advised that he was the only minister
to be invited to an exclusive party with the King and Queen, he felt
especially “Sameach V’Tov Lev” (Esther 5:9)--happy and glad of heart.
Why was he so happy and glad of heart? Because there was no other person
in the world like him--it was the King, the Queen…and him alone!
Rav
Eliyahu Schneider, Shlita, explains that we, too, should feel this same
elation in that we have been especially chosen--chosen like no other
nation--to be Hashem’s standard bearers for the world by dutifully
performing the Torah and Mitzvos. He incredibly points to the words of the
Tochacha (the reproof) in the Torah which unequivocally teaches, in an
almost identical language, that the reason we will suffer the Tochacha’s
fate, is “because you did not serve Hashem “**happy and glad of
heart**”--i.e., that we did not properly appreciate and marvel over our own
uniqueness (Devarim 28: 47)! Furthermore, in contrast to Haman,
however--who lived only for himself and for his position in this world--we
live for infinitely greater purposes and for eternity.
Winning the state lottery compared to the enormity of what we can accomplish
would be like telling a short joke at a four-hour long Purim Seudah!
---------------------------------------------------------------
IN
MORDECHAI’S NAME:
Esther related the plot of Bigsan V’Seresh to kill the king “BeSheim
Mordechai--in Mordechai’s name.” Chazal derive from this that one who
repeats a matter in the name of the one who said it, brings redemption to
the world (Avos 6:6)--for the Jewish people were saved because of
Achashveirosh’s understanding of Mordechai’s deed.” What was so special
about Esther’s act, and why does it produce such great reward?!
The
commentaries explain that repeating something in the name of someone else
when you could have just as easily ascribed it to yourself, and even when
you in fact on your own had the same thought, remark or teaching indicates a
high degree of ‘Ayin Tova’--good naturedness and a good eye towards
others which deserves special recognition and special Bracha. Indeed, the
Middah K’Neged Middah is obvious--if one acts with an Ayin Tova
towards others even if there is good and reasonable basis not to be so
effusive in this Ayin Tova, Hashem, in turn, will act with an Ayin
Tova even if there is a basis for him not to do so. It is, therefore,
the Midda of Ayin Tova which permeates everyone’s Purim--giving
Mishloach Manos to others, distributing Matanos L’Evyonim to each and
every person that asks, and joining together for a Purim Seudah. It is this
marvelous Middah of Ayin Tova--looking away at self and graciously
helping another--which we can take with us on a daily basis after
Purim. Remember--Chazal teach that it brings Geulah to the world--so let’s
get seriously going. At the end of each day, you may want to ask yourself
did I act with an Ayin Tova today--did I help bring the Geulah for us
all?!
---------------------------------------------------------------
WE ARE
UP TO YOUR MEGILLAH:
Although we take leave of the Megillah for the time being, we must, once
again, take care to remember the words of the Chovos HaLevavos (Sha’ar
Cheshbon HaNefesh)--”Ki HaYamim Megillos--for each one of our
days are scrolls,” we must write upon them that which we should [be proud
to] remember about them. Each one of us is important, and each page, each
scroll, of the book of our life, is filled with potential that only we--and
no one else--can achieve.
We
should be as elated every day with the results of our own personal Megillah,
as we are with the outcome of the Megillah on Purim!
---------------------------------------------------------------
ONE
FINAL WORD:
Kiymu
V’Kiblu--energize
yourself with these words when you study!
================================
15 Adar
REMINDER--Start
three Mishnayos a day in Mesechta Pesachim--if you start today you will
finish on the first days of Yom Tov! What a beautiful way to enter the Yom
Tov!
----------------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH!
As we are now less than 30 days before Pesach, we should try to learn the
Halachos of Pesach (including the Halachos of the Seder) from a practical
Sefer. To some, it can be the Mishna Berurah or the Aruch HaShulchan; to
others it can be an English Sefer such as The Halachos of Pesach,
by Rabbi Shimon Eider, Z’tl. The importance of studying the Halachos
within the 30 days before Pesach is highlighted by the Mishna Berurah (Shulchan
Aruch, Orach Chaim 429 seif katan 1), who writes that the source for the 30
day study period is actually found in the Torah itself (see ibid.). We
intend to provide two to three short Halachos per day. This should not of
course serve as a replacement of one’s own study, but only as a supplement
for our collective use. The following halachos are culled from the Mishna
Berurah, Dirshu Edition (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 432):
A. Bedikas Chometz is the first step on Erev Pesach in ridding ourselves of
Chometz possessions. Indeed, it is part of a large process of Biur Chometz--the
destruction of Chometz. Accordingly, the bracha one recites at the outset of
Bedikas Chometz is Ahl Biur Chometz. The Pri Megadim rules that if
one recited the bracha of Ahl Bedikas Chometz--he is not Yotzei. We
do not recite a Shehechiyanu at Bedikas Chometz, because its purpose is for
Chag HaPesach itself--and we rely on the Shehechiyanu made on the Leil
HaSeder (similar to one building the Sukkah who relies on the Shehechiyanu
made on the first night of Sukkos). (Dirshu Notes 1 and 5)
B. According to the Shulchan Aruch HaRav, the obligation to check
for Chometz in places where there is regularly Chometz is MiD’Oraysa if one
is not mevatel his Chometz, but for places in which Chometz is not
usually stored or used but where it is possible that Chometz may have been
brought--even if one is not mevatel his Chometz, the chiyuv is MiD’Rabanan.
(Dirshu Note 15)
----------------------------------------------
KIYMU
V’KIBLU:
Today is the day to ensure that your Kiymu V’Kiblu thoughts turn into
daily action, bli neder! How will your Torah study be
improved?--Will you try to not only read the words but say them aloud--at
least in one aspect of your daily Torah study? Will you be sure to learn at
least one Halacha a day about Hilchos Pesach until Pesach and continue in
some way from there? Will you think about how beloved the opportunity to
study Torah is--each time before beginning your Torah studies…? We look
forward to you sharing your Kiymu V’Kiblu commitments, bli neder,
with us!
----------------------------------------------
YOM
HAKIPURIM:
In how many ways were you able to discover that Purim is really like Yom
HakiPurim? The lots are certainly a place to begin…. If you
have not thought through the various possibilities--it is still Shushan
Purim today--try to get a better understanding!
----------------------------------------------
PUR-IM:
Why is Purim called its name in the plural if it is, as the Megillah
records--only “Al Shem HaPur”. Why is it simply not called ‘Pur’ or ‘HaPur’? It
may be that the plural teaches us the great significance of both days--Purim
and Shushan Purim, for in actuality, the “V’nahafoch Hu”, the dynamic
turnabout, continues today on Shushan Purim!
------------------------------------------------
CHOMETZ GEMACH IN FLATBUSH!
Between Purim and Pesach, donate your unopened, non-perishable chometz with
a reliable Hechsher. The Gemach sells donated chametz with its own chametz.
After Pesach everything is distributed it to those in need. Also accepting
donations to purchase supplies or extra food. For more information, contact
Yitzchak Relkin:
718-377-6361 or email
yitzchak@relkin.com (please write
“Chametz Gemach” in subject line). Active between Purim and Pesach. The
Gemach is located at 1101 East 3rd Street. Please call before coming to make
sure that someone is home to receive the Chometz. All Chometz must be
dropped off by the day before bedikas chometz.
Last year, the Gemach gathered and distributed almost 8,500 pounds of food.
In seven years, the Gemach has distributed 18,000 pounds.
------------------------------------------------
THE “SECOND DAY OF PURIM”!
One of our favorite notes of the past: Whereas on other Yomim Tovim, the
“second day of Yom Tov” is for the people in Chutz L’Aretz, on Purim the
“second day”--Shushan Purim--is for Yerushalayim (and certain other
formerly-walled cities, almost all of which are in Eretz Yisrael, in which a
Second Day is only celebrated for reasons relating to a doubt as to the
proper day to observe). Why the turnabout? Why is the “Second Day of Yom
Tov” observed in Yerushalayim on Purim unlike all the other Chagim? We
suggest the following: the ikar, the essence, of the celebration of
the Shalosh Regalim--Pesach, Shavuos and Succos--is in Eretz Yisrael, which
is why they are referred to in the Torah as the Shalosh Regalim--the three
times a year we go up to Yerushalayim and the Beis HaMikdash and bring
sacrifices to rejuvenate ourselves through the open miracles seen there (see
these miracles listed in Avos 5:5) and inculcate ourselves with the unique
and sublime holiness of the people and the place (See Sefer HaChinuch,
Mitzvah 489, Bava Basra 21A and Tosfos there, dibur hamaschil Ki Mitzion).
The Nes of Purim, on the other hand, is the last of our miracles found in
Tanach, and it is a miracle in a very different way, for it is a miracle
taking place in Chutz L’Aretz, and occurring, not instantaneously, but over
a multi-year period, all b’hester--concealed event after concealed
event after concealed event--until we looked back and determined that an
outstanding miracle had occurred.
Thus, unlike the Shalosh Regalim, which celebrated the open miracles of
Yetzias Mitzrayim, Matan Torah and the Ananei Kavod (the clouds of glory),
and which were replete with the miracles of Yerushalayim in their
observance, the miracle of Purim was a miracle for the Golus. It teaches us
how we are to lead our lives with Bnei Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael still in a
state of defilement and impurity. Indeed, the Gemara (Megillah 14A) teaches
that on Purim we do not read the regular Hallel in order to rejoice in the
remembrance of the miracle, but “the reading of the Megillah--this is the
Hallel.” The Megillah (the word is related to the Hebrew word “Megaleh”--to
reveal) reveals to us Hashem’s hidden, rather than open and clear role, in
our experiences, our successes and our sheer continuity in Galus.
On Purim, it is Yerushalayim in this sense that takes a “second day” because
the miracle of Purim is to be our guiding light through the Nisim Nistarim
of Golus which have occurred, primarily outside of Eretz Yisrael. Our role
is to uncover the Nissim, to recognize the hidden miracles of Hashem in our
every day lives. We can do this, overcoming the mirages, the illusions and
our own delusions of a lifestyle which does not have Hashem accompanying and
guiding us in our daily life, and replacing it with a sincere and meaningful
awareness that we should appreciate and thank Hashem for (as we recite in
Modim three times daily):
·
Al Nisecha She’Bakol Yom
Imanu-Your hidden miracles with us
every day,
·
Val Nifleosecha-Your
daily and natural wonders,
·
V’Tovosecha-Your
daily kindnesses,
·
She’bechol Es Erev
VaVoker V’Tzaharayim-which are not
only with us daily, but throughout the entire day--evening, morning and
afternoon….
If we can focus on these words three times a day, then we can demonstrate
that we have learned this key lesson of Golus and we can once again merit
the day when miracles are openly revealed to us and to all nations of the
world.
The unique period between Purim and Pesach is the period of time which leads
us from the hidden miracles of Purim to the revealed miracles of Pesach--let
us use this time wisely by coming to a proper appreciation of the lessons of
Purim--which will lead us to Pesach--in Yerushalayim on the First Day of Yom
Tov!
------------------------------------------------
A
SECOND THOUGHT:
A different (but not contradictory!) thought on Shushan Purim as the Purim
of Yerushalayim: Dovid HaMelech cries out in Tehillim 122: “Sh’alu
Shelom Yerushalayim Yishlayu Ohavoyich…pray for the peace of
Yerushalayim; those who love you [Yerushalayim] will be serene.” The Radak
in his commentary to this Pasuk teaches that these are the words that Jews
must utter in Galus--Pray to Hashem for the peace of Yerushalayim. What is
the “peace of Yerushalayim?” The Radak (almost prophetically) writes that
this can only be attained with kibutz galios--the ingathering of the
exiles--because there will not be peace as long as the “Arailim” and
“Yishma’aylim”--the Christians and Arabs--war over the City.
In his commentary to this very same Pasuk, HaRav Avrohom Chaim Feuer, Shlita,
brings the following Chazal (from Meseches Derech Eretz Zuta):
“HaKadosh Baruch Hu said to Bnei Yisrael: ‘It was you who caused the Bais
HaMikdash to be destroyed and My children to be driven into exile. All I
ask is that you pray for the peace of Yerushalayim and I will forgive you!’”
Let us honestly reflect: Haman was a Rasha, and Achashveirosh was a Rasha
and/or a fool, but ultimately it was the Jews at that time that got
themselves into that mess and had to get themselves out of it. The
responsibility for Yerushalayim--for our kibutz galios--which is so
imminent, falls squarely on our minds and hearts. We must hold ourselves
accountable, not as a matter of guilt, but as a matter of responsibility--to
ourselves, our families, and our people. Dovid HaMelech instructs us: “Sh’alu
Shelom Yerushalayim Yishlayu Ohavoyich”--Daven! Daven! Daven!
If one does not feel he has any more time to recite additional Tehillim
during the day, let him at least be sure to recite the brocha of “Vl’Yerushalayim
Ircha”--which he is reciting in any event three times a day in Shemone
Esrei--with purity of mind and heart. For the next four weeks until Pesach,
let us use our power of prayer--for the sake of Yerushalayim, which is oh so
much for the sake of ourselves, for the sake of K’lal Yisrael--and for the
honor of Hashem!!
=================================
12 Adar
SOMETHING VERY PRECIOUS:
Rabban
Gamliel Rabinovich, Shlita notes that every morning, before putting on his
Tefillin, he reminds himself that unlike the Tzitz--one of the Eight
Garments of the Kohen Gadol referred to in tomorrow’s Parasha ,which had
Hashem’s name on it one time (in the words Kodesh LaShem)--one’s
Tefillin has the name of Hashem in it 42 times. This is a great
source of inspiration and appreciation when donning Tefillin. The Bi’ur
Halacha in Hilchos Tefillin adds that when we tie the knot on our arm
every morning--we are tying the “Kesher HaYichud VeHaKedusha--the
knot which declares Hashem’s Oneness and Mastery, and the knot of Holiness.
A Rav once saw his Mispalel with a tired and distracted face as he was about
to don his Tefillin. He turned to him and said--in the Megillah what you are
about to do is referred to as “Yekar”--something very honored, and
very precious. You should be smiling from ear to ear that you have an
opportunity now to wear not any crown jewels--but Hashem’s crown jewels!
Hakhel
Note 1: One of the reasons the events which called for our annihilation at
the time of Purim occurred is because “Yoshanu Min HaMitzvos--we were
asleep with the Mitzvos, for the Mitzvos were ‘old hat’ to us; rephrased
just a bit-- we were doing the Mitzvos in our sleep. The threat of
annihilation woke us to realize that Torah was not an instruction book with
many details--but was true Orah--the illuminating infinite light ,
that Yom Tov was not an interruption from the daily routine, forced
vacation, or expensive--but the ultimate joy of special togetherness
with one’s Creator even in this world; that a Bris Milah was not
simply the mark of a Jew--but was Sasson, the reality that 24/7 one could
be bonded with Hashem. So, feeling the Yekar of Tefillin each
and every day before we put them on--especially at this time of year is an
important step in making us worthy to eventually observe and celebrate
Purim. It only takes an extra moment of two of reflection--and the
difference may very well be phenomenal.
Hakhel
Note 2: For women who do not don Tefillin, their Yekar may easily be
seen as the Tznius--the clothing and comportment that befits an Am Hashem.
After all, Shlomo Hamelech, the wisest of all men, describes a woman’s
clothing with the words “Oz VeHadar Levusha--her dress is powerful
and beautiful--quite similar to the Yekar of Tefillin--no? In truth,
men are supposed to wear their Tefillin all day, but most are not capable;
women, then, whose clothing is with them throughout the day, succeed to
sustain their Yekar far beyond the average man. It definitely
follows that just as men must spend a little time to appreciate their Yekar,
women too--especially when they see the deportment of other females in
stores and businesses--should not sleep through--but very much appreciate,
and be very grateful for the badge of honor that envelops them daily. Let
us start practicing now--so when we begin to sing the words LaYehudim
Hoysa Orah...on Purim they have very, very special meaning to us!
-----------------------------------------
THE
FIRST WORD OF THE PARASHA:
The following moving message is excerpted from V’shee-Non-Tom,
by Rabbi Elias Schwartz, Z’tl: “Ve’atah
Tetzaveh Es Bnei Yisrael--and
you shall
command
the children
of Israel.” (Shemos 27:20) “The
first
word
of this pasuk, Ve’atah,
and
you,
is entirely
unnecessary,
because
the
second word
Tetzaveh
starts
with a Tuff,
and that in itself
means you. The word Tetzaveh
in itself means
“and
you shall command.”
What do we
need
the
first word, Ve’atah
for? In reality,
Hashem
is teaching
us how to command
others;
how to
inspire
others;
how to teach
others.
Ve’atah,
and
you:
The way
you
act,
the
way you
walk,
the
way
you
talk,
will be
the
measure
of success
you
will have
in Tetzaveh,
in your
commanding
others
to do.
If you
want
others
to follow you,
then
watch
yourself
first.
If you
want to
impress
good deeds
and good
characteristics
upon others,
then
practice
what
you preach.
Character
cannot
be taught.
It must
be
caught.
You
must want
to emulate
the character
of your
parents,
Rabbonim or leaders because
you have
become
impressed
by them.
A Rebbi
must
inject
his own
personality
into his
students
if
he wants
them to
follow in his
footsteps.
The students
must be
captivated
by
his Midos,
by
his characteristics.
The degree
of indoctrination
is not
in
proportion to the
knowledge
acquired.
It is
the
personality
of the
Rebbe
that becomes
part
of his
students.
They
are caught
up in the aura
of the greatness
of their
Rebbe. Thus is character
molded.
Yehoshua
was
the
foremost student of
Moshe
Rabbeinu.
He became
the leader
of K’lal
Yisrael
after his Rebbe
passed
away.
Nowhere
in the
Torah
do we refer
to Yehoshua
as the
talmid
(student)
of Moshe
Rabbeinu.
He is
rather
called
“Meshareis
Moshe”--he
is referred
to as
the person
who
served
Moshe.
Yehoshua
was always
with
Moshe.
He
observed
Moshe
all the
time.
This
molded
Yehoshua
into the
great
leader
that he
became.
How
can I ever
forget
the influence
that my
Rebbi,
Reb
Shlomo
Heiman,
Z’tl, had on
all of
us.
When
I think of the
way he
spoke,
the
way he
smiled,
the way
he walked
in the
street,
I can
actually
visualize
him.
Good Midos
shone
on his face.
It became
much
easier
to grow
up with
good
character
when
you
had
a Rebbe
like
him to
inspire
you.
As you left Rebbi’s
home,
there
was one
little
step,
by
itself,
before
you reached
the entire
flight of steps
leading
to the
outside.
Rebbe always walked
with
you till
that one
step.
Besides
the
mitzvah
of walking somebody
to the
door (which Rebbe
always
did), he
would say: “Watch
that
step,
don’t
trip and fall.” The
greatest
obligation
that we
have
to students
and
children
is to
inspire them
with wanting
to become
men
of
character
and goodness.
We may
not always
be successful
in the
teaching
of the
various
phases
of Torah,
but we
can be
successful
in teaching
others to behave and grow
properly.”
-----------------------------------------
A FEW
ADDITIONAL BRIEF POINTS RELATING TO THIS WEEK’S PARASHAS TETZAVEH.
Although we cannot supply you with food for the meal--perhaps with some food
to accompany the meal:
1. At
the outset of last week’s Parasha, Teruma, Hashem commands B’nai Yisrael
with the words “VeYikchu Li Teruma --they shall take for Me
Teruma. This week’s Parasha however begins with the words “VeYikchu
Eilecha--they shall take for you Shemen Zayis, highly refine
olive oil. Rabbi Schwartz explains why the Parasha begins with Ve’atah--but
what is the explanation for this change from the great Li-Lishmi
lesson of Parashas Terumah to Moshe Rabbeinu’s personal involvement with the
Shemen Zayis here? Your suggestions are most welcome!
2. It
is not only women who bring honor to themselves and their people by their
dress and comportment. The Bigdei Kehuna Gedola of Aharon as Kohen Gadol are
described in the Torah as clothing which is LeChavod U’LeSifores--clothing
that brings and displays honor and glory to the position. The clothing of
the regular Kohanim are also described in the Torah with the very same words
of LeChavod U’LeSifores. There is a moving message--even if one does
not don the garb of a Rav or the Elders of the congregation--he is still
an important part of the K’lal and brings Kavod V’Sifores to himself
and his people in his own way. Although Aharon’s sons did not wear Eight
Garments--they did wear Four Garments of special dignity. One must
therefore be mindful--especially when going to pray or even when making a
bracha in his own home that he also bring Kavod V’Sifores (or c’v
the opposite) to his Avodas Hashem by his dress and comport. A person who
wears a cap or jacket to Mincha or Ma’ariv with a cartoon character or
perhaps another western world symbol highlighted or displayed upon it may be
demonstrating the same (or negative) degree of Kavod V’Sifores to his
Avodah as the person touting a Bluetooth-equipped ear during Shemone Esrei.
This Shabbos is a time to reattach ourselves to the dignity of the Avodah
--by rethinking the regard we intend give to it in our everyday lives!
Hakhel
Note: The concept of wearing proper clothing for davening is codified in
Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 98:4): “VeRaui Sheyiheyu Lo Malbushim Na’im
Meyuchadim LeTefillah Kemo Bigdei Kehunah--it is befitting for a person
to have nice clothing especially for davening like the Bigdei Kehunah.”
The Shulchan Aruch explains that this is because our Tefillos are in the
place of Karbonos--each person is his own Kohein!
3.
The first of the Kohen Gadol’s Eight Garments listed in the Parasha
is the Choshen. Chazal (Zevachim 88B) teach that the Choshen brings
forgiveness for injustices in monetary matters. We can well understand why
this article of the Bigdei Kehuna is listed first--for, after all,
the first question that a person will be asked after his 120 year
stay in this world is Nossasa VeNosata Be’Emuna--did you deal
honestly with people? Straightening out our actions in monetary and
financial matters is a primary matter --a matter of first
concern. As we get set to do the Avodah-we must first be a N’Ki Kapayim--as
our living in Olam Hazeh requires that clean hands be the pre-requisite for
elevation of our spirit. When we think of what to do or how to conduct
ourselves in a particular monetary matter--let us visualize the holy
Choshen--and let us remember it as the very first of the Kohen Gadol’s Eight
Garments!
-----------------------------------------
REMINDER--EIS RATZON!
Several days
ago, we had pointed out that HaRav
Mattiyahu Salomon, Shlita,
brought a special Tefillah from the Chida to be
recited in a Eis Ratzon--to allow all further Tefillos on a daily basis to
be connected to the Eis Ratzon. By the following link
http://tinyurl.com/zraeg8z we provide the
amazing actual text of HaRav
Salomon’s teaching from his Sefer Matnas Chaim.
------------------------------------------------------------
PURIM
AMERICA!
After
the initial Purim, throughout the ages there have been local Purims
celebrated in certain communities for miraculous Yeshuos from enemies of our
people in this communities. We should not lose sight of the miracles that
surround us in this regard even in our time. As is well known, B. Hussein
Obama, in one of his last acts as President, intended to ‘contribute’ over
$200 million to the Palestinian cause. His henchwoman, Mrs. Clinton, as
exposed in her hacked emails, expressed her hatred for the Moskowitz family
for purchasing numerous parcels of Arab-owned land for the benefit of the
Jewish people. As we celebrate Purim, and as we will recite on the Leil
HaSeder: “Shelo Echad Bilevad…VeHakadosh Boruch Hu Matzileinu MiYadam”,
we should recognize the recent miracle of our being saved from haters of our
people. Lest we think that politics is a relatively recent historical
phenomenon, we need only look to the Megillah in which Achashveirosh told
Esther HaMalka that he will grant any wish that she has up to but not
including “Chatzi HaMalchus”. Chazal teach that this refers to the building
of the Bais HaMikdash--which is a request he would not grant. Why did he not
simply say that--and instead veil it with the term “Chatzi HaMalchus”? We
suggest that the Megillah is revealing the ‘politics’ of the time to us--and
making sure we understand our Yeshuos from so-called politics in our time as
well. Let us give Shevach V’Hoda’ah at our Purim Seudah over the recent
unexpected yeridah v’nefila of Sonei Yisrael...”Shoshanas Yaakov
Tzahala V’Sameicha!”
------------------------------------------------------------
LEIL PURIM--FLATBUSH TEHILLIM B’TZIBBUR!
On Motza’ei Shabbos at K’hal Zichron Mordechai, 2645 Nostrand Avenue, the
entire Sefer Tehillim will be recited commencing at 10:30pm. All are invited
to participate in this Eis Ratzon Kiddush Sheim Shomayim.
------------------------------------------------------------
FROM
READERS:
1. “As
you had previously noted--please remind your readers that water does not
count as a manah of Mishloach Manos.”
2.
“Regarding the wonderful Gematria of Mordechai HaYehudi and Shakai--there is
another amazing related Gematria. That is--the Gematria of Mordechai
HaYehudi and Shakai (each 314) is also the Gematria of the first and last
word of the Megillah--teaching us that all of the events in the
Megillah--from beginning to end are from Hashem!”
3. “If
we are to do Teshuvah Bechol Yom--all the more so on Purim itself!”
4. “As
I focus on Tefillah which is so important on Purim--I will try to remember
that one of the reasons Chazal give for Esther’s inviting Haman to the
Mishteh was, and accordingly be lax in their Tefillos. Esther was teaching
us so that the Jew’s would not think that they had a ‘friend in office’
that at all times there is one and only one Source for our Yeshuos--Purim is
such a great time to go directly to our Source for them!”
----------------------------------------------------
WE
CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
1.
When Haman complained about the Jewish People to Achashveirosh, Chazal say
he said “They spend their years with statements like ‘Shabbos HaYom,
Pesach HaYom’, and are thereby not loyal to the king.” The Chasam Sofer
explains that Haman meant to indicate with these words that the Jewish
people were so attached and enamored to their past and to their ways, and so
dedicated to Hashem, that every Shabbos they felt as if it was truly ‘Shabbos
HaYom’--the first Shabbos ever, and that every Pesach was ‘Pesach
HaYom’--that this was the first Pesach ever. They would, accordingly,
never be loyal subjects for they had their own set of priorities. In honor
of his marvelous ‘accusation’ let us truly feel the excitement of the ‘Shabbos
HaYom’ on Shabbos!
2.
What does the phrase of “Maharu Es Haman La’asos Es Dvar Esther” in
the Zemiros of Shimru Shabsosai have to do with Shabbos? The Eitz
Yosef (in the Siddur Otzar HeTefillos) writes that Shabbos is
referred to as ‘Esther’ in the Zohar and Tikkunim--so that this phrase in
the Zemiros in actuality is referring to us preparing the Shabbos meals with
alacrity in honor of Shabbos. The nexus between Shabbos and Esther deserves
further reflection. On a simple level, both Esther and Shabbos represent
our recognition and awareness of Hashem’s presence in the ‘hidden’ and
natural events of every day of our existence. It is on Purim and on Shabbos
especially that we have a greater Hargasha, a greater experiential
sense, of this feeling. Your additional reflections would be very much
appreciated.
3.
Fascinatingly, Chazal (Megillah 23A) teach that the seven aliyos we have on
Shabbos correspond to the shiva ro’eh pnei hamelech. Rashi (ibid.)
cites the Pasuk in the Megillah for this: “Shivas Sarei Paras U’Madai”
(Esther 1: 14 ). Every Shabbos--we are reminded of the Purim miracle!
4. In
preparation for the Mitzvah of reading Parashas Zachor tomorrow, we provide
the following important annual reminders:
A. The
opportunity to read Parashas Zachor this Shabbos is of such great
significance that, according to the Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach
Chaim 685, seif katan 16), if one can only come to hear either Parashas
Zachor or the reading of the Megillah, one should go to hear Parashas
Zachor.
B. There is a Mitzvas Aseh, a positive Torah commandment, to
“always remember the wicked deeds of the people of Amalek and their attack
upon us, to arouse our hatred of them”--as they were the first to attack us
without fear after the nations quaked and trembled over us (as described in
Oz Yoshir, the Song of the Sea). See Rambam Hilchos Melachim 5:5, S’mag
Mitzvas Aseh 115, Chayei Odom 151:2.
C. The
Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 603) writes that one of the purposes of this
Mitzvah is for us to recognize that one who causes pain to K’lal Yisrael is
despised by Hashem, and according to the level of enmity against K’lal
Yisrael is their level of destruction. Since Amalek’s hatred of us was
greater than that of all other nations, they are to be completely
obliterated. Indeed, the Ramban (end of Parashas Ki Setzeh) writes that we
should “teach our children and future generations--so did the rasha
to us, and that is why we have been commanded to erase his name.”
D. There is a Mitzvas Lo Sa’aseh, a Torah prohibition,
of “Lo Tishkach”--not to forget the deeds of Amalek. This means that
we should not forget to despise them despite the passage of time, and to
remember that Hashem saved us from them, and that we will eventually avenge
their deeds and eradicate them. See S’mak 53 and Sefer Yereim 189.
E. One
should review the words of Parashas Zachor (with Rashi and/or other
meforshim) before the laining. We suggest reviewing it at the Leil Shabbos
Seudah in order that you and/or others are prepared for the laining, since
the Mitzvah is to arouse within us both a strong reaction to their
despicable deeds, and our obligation to eradicate them. Indeed, the Maharam
Shick writes that we do not make a special bracha on this Mitzvah because we
do not make a bracha on hashchosa--acts of destruction.
F. The Rambam (Hilchos Melachim 6:4) writes that an Amaleiki who makes peace
with K’lal Yisrael and accepts the seven Mitzvos B’nei Noach is not to be
hurt. In fact, some learn that the reason that the descendants of Haman
“learned Torah in Bnei Brak” (Gittin 57B) is because they were the
descendants of those sons of Haman who did not fight against K’lal Yisrael
(Sefer Adar U’Purim p. 68)
G. The
Mitzvah of Mechias Amalek, eradicating the Sonei Hashem and Sonei
Yisrael--those pure haters of Hashem and His people--began with Moshe
Rabbeinu and Yehoshua, continued in the times of Shaul HaMelech, Dovid
HaMelech and in the times of Purim, and we will be Zoche to complete it in
the times of Moshiach (S’mag-Mitzvas Lo Sa’aseh 226). As these are days of
Nissim and Geulah--miracles and redemption, may we be Zoche to do all the
Mitzvos of Hashem with Moshiach leading and teaching us, speedily in our
days.
H. For
further detail see Sefer Adar U’Purim by HaRav Yoel Schwartz,
Shlita, upon which this note is based. For the enlightening words of the
Ramban on the relationship between the war against Amalek and the end of our
current Golus Edom , see the Ramban in Shemos 17:9.
------------------------------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH FOR THE PURIM SEUDAH:
The Rema (in Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 695:2) writes that the Seudas
Purim, the festive Purim meal, should commence with Divrei Torah. The Mishna
Berurah (in Orach Chayim 429, seif katan 2) rules that one must begin
learning about Pesach on Purim--which is exactly 30 days before Pesach.
Accordingly, putting the Rema and Mishna Berurah together, it is therefore a
custom to commence the Purim Seudah with a Halacha about Pesach. In this
way, one also connects the Geulah of Purim to the Geulah of Pesach (see
Ta’anis 29A, which states that the reason we should increase our simcha to
such a great extent in Adar is because it is the commencement of both the
miracles of Purim and Pesach).
We
provide two Halachos for you to begin:
1. The
Rema (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 429:1) begins Hilchos Pesach by writing
that it is our Minhag to give wheat to the poor in order to help them
celebrate Pesach. The Mishna Berurah (seif katan 3) notes that this Minhag
dates back to the time of Chazal.
2.
Rabbi Shimon Eider, Z’tl, in the Halachos of Pesach writes that in lieu of
wheat, some have the custom to distribute flour or other food supplies. In
our time, most communities distribute money for the poor, in order for them
to purchase their needs. The leaders of our community do not tax or
otherwise assess their constituents, but instead everyone is expected to
give to the best of his ability.
Hakhel
Note: As we connect Matanos L’Evyonim to Ma’os Chitim--let us remember the
Pasuk (Yeshaya 1:27): “Tzion B’Mishpat Tipadeh V’Shaveha B’Tzedaka”--speedily
and in our day!
----------------------------------------------------
MISHNAYOS MESECHTA PESACHIM:
If you
start on Purim (which is 30 days before Pesach) and learn just three
Mishnayos a day--you will complete the entire Mishnayos Mesechta
Pesachim--for Pesach!
---------------------------------------------------------------
BRACHOS REMINDER:
As we partake of the Mishloach Manos and Seudas Purim--let us remember that
we can express our thanks to Hashem for these wonderful Mitzvos through the
sincere and Kavannah-filled brachos that we make over the Purim feast and
gifts He has given us--oh how the day is blessed! Dovid HaMelech (Tehillim
139:14) expresses it so beautifully: “Odecha Al Ki Nora’os Nifleisi,
Nifla’im Ma’asecha VeNafshi Yoda’as Me’od--I acknowledge You for I am so
awesomely fashioned; wondrous are Your works and my soul knows it well!”
---------------------------------------------------------------
TEFILLAH AHL HAGEULAH--ON
PURIM: Once again,
may we suggest that on the auspicious day of Purim we recite the Tefillah Al
HaGeulah we have previously distributed:
http://tinyurl.com/2u3l4e (Hebrew
version) and http://tinyurl.com/3ybyxq (English
version).
---------------------------------------------------------------
AN
IMPORTANT ADVERTISEMENT:
The following notice appeared in an advertisement regarding Purim: “On
Purim, when Tzedakah collectors enter your home, from yeshiva bochurim to
elderly Rabbanim, women should be extra vigilant in maintaining a modest
demeanor. In the zechus of your extra vigilance in adhering to the laws of
Tzniyus on this holy day, may you and your loved ones experience great
blessing and reward!”
---------------------------------------------------------------
FINAL
5777 PURIM MOMENT--EXPANDED!
1.
Mikrah Megillah: GREAT AND IMPORTANT REMINDER: When following the
Megillah Reading at night and in the morning your are urged to point from
word to word in order to keep yourself actively involved in following
Kriyas HaMegillah.
2.
Mishloach Manos:
A.
Mishloach Manos must just consist of two different portions of food--they
can both be meat, or any other type of food or drink (See Shulchan Aruch,
Orach Chaim 695:4 and Mishna Berurah there). Rabbi Shlomo Pearl, Z’tl,
brings that HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Braun, Z’tl, ruled that one may cut a
pineapple in half, put the two halves on a plate and be Yotzei the Mitzvah!
Not all would agree with this P’sak, and would require two different items.
See, for example, Aruch HaShulchan, Orach Chaim 695:14.
B.
Several people can ‘partner’ together for Mishloach Manos as long as there
are enough portions (two per giver) i.e., 12 people can jointly send 24
items to one person and all be Yotzei the Mitzvah! (Sefer Halichos Shlomo
p. 337)
C.
According to the Rambam (Hilchos Megillah 2:17 ) it is preferable to
increase the amount of Matanos L’Evyonim that you give over the amount of
Mishloach Manos. See the moving words of the Rambam there.
D. The
following are psakim of HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, relating to Misloach Manos,
excerpted from the Sefer Yevakshu MiPihu,
which contains hundreds of Pesakim of HaRav Elyashiv relating to Purim and
is available in many Seforim stores:
(i). Each portion given should be at least a kezayis, and should be
something that is viewed as chashuv. One could not, for instance, give a
slice of bread and an onion and be yotzeh the Mitzvah. However, one could
give chocolates or candies--provided that there is as least a kezayis of
them.
(ii). A roll and a container of butter (or jelly) are considered two
portions and one has fulfilled the mitzvah with them--but if the butter or
jelly has already been spread on the bread it is only one portion. Two kinds
of meat (prepared with different spices, or one cooked and the other
roasted) would also be considered two different portions.
(iii). One can be Yotzeh the Mitzvah by giving two kinds of wine, or two
kinds of soda. However, one is not yotzeh the Mitzvah with water, soda water
or mineral water.
(iv).One is not yotzeh the Mitzvah with tavlin such as a container of tea
bags or coffee. [The mechaber of the Sefer surmises that one could not be
yotzeh with a drink of tea or coffee--for that is only a combination of two
items that you cannot be yotzeh with--water and the tavlin of tea or
coffee]. One could be yotzeh with a container of sugar, since it is edible
as is.
(v). One is yotzeh the Mitzvah even if the food would taste better warmed
up--as long as it is edible as is.
(vi). It is better to give items which comport with the chashivus of the
giver and the receiver--but this is not me’akev, as long as the other
halachos (such as those above) are satisfied.
(vii). One can fulfill the mitzvah in giving to a parent--for one should be
‘BeRayus’ with them as well!
(viii).Children of age should give to their friends, A child who is 13
years old may give to his 12 year old friend (although he is still a katan)
and still be yotzeh the Mitzvah--as this is his Rayus.
(ix). One must know who sent the Mishloach Manos in order for the sender to
be yotzeh (it can’t be anonymous!)--otherwise there is no increase in love
and friendship.
(x).It is permitted to eat in the morning before performing the
Mitzvah. However, the Mitzvah of ‘Zerizin Makdimin’-- acting with alacrity
when performing Mitzvos--applies to Mishloach Manos as it applies to all
others!
3.
Matanos L’Evyonim:
A. One
can be Yotzei the Mitzvah with a check if the poor person can use it in a
store. (Sefer Halichos Shlomo p. 342)
B. The
Sefer Pele Yo’etz provides the following moving words regarding
Matanos L’Evyonim: “It is befitting to have mercy on them, and for one to
realize that just as money comes in it goes out--for the eyes of the poor
look to those who are wealthier--and the eyes of the wealthier look to
Hashem Who will give more if the person gives more. Accordingly, if one
feels weak or weakened by so much giving, he should realize that ‘Birkas
Hashem Hi Ta’ashir--the bracha of Hashem will make one wealthy’, and he
should strengthen himself by saying “Gibor Ani”--I am a Gibor to help
those whom Hashem wants me to help--and Hashem will help them--and you!”
Hakhel
Note: HaRav Naftali Kaplan, Shlita, points out that when giving, your
feelings and attitude towards the fifth, tenth, fifteenth and twentieth
recipient, should be no different than your feelings and attitude towards
the first!
4.
Seudas Purim:
A. For
those of you will be making a Siyum on Mesechta Megillah or Mishnayos
Megillah as part of our daily program--Mazel Tov and many, many more!!
B.
Some have the custom of eating zaronim at the Purim Seudah, in
remembrance of the food that Esther, as well as Doniyel, Chananya, Mishael
and Azarya had to eat while in the royal court. Some Poskim hold that
Zaronim need not necessarily be beans or seeds--but can be any vegetables.
C. If
a father tells his son not to get drunk on Purim, the son should listen to
him--for he can fulfill the Mitzvah of drinking through drinking a little
more than usual and going to sleep--and still beautifully fulfill the
Mitzvas Asei D’Oryasah of Kibbud Av Va’eim! (Rabbi Shlomo Pearl, Z’tl)
Hakhel Note: For a listing of Rabbi Pearl’s Shiurim visit
www.SeeTorah.com
D. Let
us remember an essential result of Purim--’Kiymu VeKiblu--the Jewish
People reaffirmed their voluntary commitment to the Torah.’ Rashi (Shabbos
88A) importantly explains that the reason that we uniquely reaffirmed our
commitment after Purim was ‘MeiAhavas HaNeis SheNa’aseh Lahem’--from
the love, from the deep appreciation of the miracle that was performed on
their behalf. HaRav Henoch Leibowitz, Z’tl, teaches that if we truly
appreciate Purim--if we too have an Ahavas HaNeis--then each and every one
of us should undertake his own Kiymu VeKiblu. At the Purim Seudah
itself--one may want to Bli Neder take on his own Kiymu VeKiblu in
Torah--and perhaps encourage others to do so as well. Here as an example is
a simple suggestion: In the Iggeres HaRamban, the Ramban writes that when
one completes his studies he should search for something that he can take
with him and apply or fulfill. Make it a part of each study session--before
you “close the book… or mp3 or cd” think about something that you learned
and how and will it have a daily Kiyum in your life. With this you
can take the Kiymu VeKiblu with you every day of the year!
Remember--Mishna Yomis beginning March 30th!
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A
GRAGER FOR ONE AND ALL!
As we
have noted in the past, the Rema (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chayim 690:17)
writes “the children’s custom is to make an image of Haman HaRasha on sticks
or stones, or to write the name of Haman HaRasha on them, and to hit them
against each other, so that his name is erased…and from here comes the
custom to make noise at the mention of the name of Haman HaRasha when the
Megillah is read in Shul--and one should not be Mevatel (nullify) a Minhag
(custom) or make light of it.”
The
Mishna Berurah there (seif katan 59) writes that this is not only the Minhag
of children, but of adults, as well, and adds that the Chacham Tzvi would
bang with his leg at the mention of Haman HaRasha. Although many communities
and Rabbonim objected to this custom as disturbing the Megillah reading and
perhaps for other reasons, it is indeed reported that the Chofetz Chaim
himself stomped with his foot when Haman HaRasha’s name was mentioned (Chofetz
Chaim Chayav U’Poalo). The Piskei Teshuvos (6:554) notes that
this was the Minhag of other Gedolei Yisrael, as well.
The
Piskei Teshuvos (ibid.) brings the explanation of the Chasam Sofer as to
why we have noise and disturbance--so as to demonstrate that we do not want
to hear his name. We may add that we should feel the same way about other
Reshaim--past and present. After all, the Posuk in Mishlei 10:7 states, “V’Shem
Reshaim Yirkav--the name of the wicked shall rot.” It is one thing to
take something into your mouth not knowing it was rotten, but would you let
your mouth touch something knowing it was spoiled?! This is something we
would most certainly be careful about. Our noise and stomping at the mention
of his name are the equivalent of saying the words “Yimach Sh’mo” (we
just do not want to talk during K’riyas HaMegillah)--which is like ejecting
the rotten item out of your mouth. See Sefer Avudraham 2:230-231. We
must recognize that Haman HaRasha’s despised name had to be written (in
various ways) in the Megillah only for the very many lessons and reasons
that the Anshei Knesses HaGedolah determined with their Ruach HaKodesh.
The
Piskei Teshuvos (ibid.) adds from the Ba’al Shevet Mussar, Z’tl, and Rav
Chaim Pilagi, Z’tl, that when we hit at the mention of Haman HaRasha’s (and
according to some Minhagim, his family members’) name, Hashem makes him
actually feel these smites--so that he is in tremendous pain. Why? Because
the miracle of Purim happened to every Jew in every generation--after all,
if Haman HaRasha’s plan had been successful, R’L, we would never have been
born. Therefore, he must feel all of the smites of all Jews of all
generations since Purim.
Let us
appreciate Purim deeply--and literally rejoice in our salvation.
---------------------------------------------------------------
THE
HALACHOS OF ONE WHO IS INTOXICATED:
The following Important Halachos were provided to us by Rabbi Yisroel
Pinchos Bodner, Shlita:
1.
Three Halachic Levels of Intoxication
Chazal
classify a person who has been drinking wine or other alcoholic beverages
into one of three halachic levels of intoxication.
A. High (shosuy) – he drank three or more ounces of wine or one to
two ounces of whiskey, and feels relaxed and somewhat euphoric (“high”). He
has minor impairment of reasoning and memory but is in control of his
actions and his speech.
B. Recognizably Drunk (shikur) - i.e., to the extent that he is
“unable to speak to a king.” The Poskim explain that a person is in this
category when his drunkenness can be recognized by his difficulty in walking
or balance, and/or if his speech is slurred. One would not want to be in a
position to have to speak to his boss, and would certainly be unable to
speak to a king in that condition.
C. Drunk “Like Lot” (shikur k’Lot) – i.e., he is disoriented and has
inadequate comprehension of where he is or what he is doing.
2.
Davening while Under the Influence
The Shulchan Aruch states that one should l’chatchilla not
daven (Sh’mone Esrei or Sh’ma) if he is even just a little
high. Rather, he should try to eliminate his intoxication by taking a walk,
or a short nap, before endeavoring to daven. Nevertheless, on Purim some
Poskim permit a person who is “high” to daven
l’chatchilla, provided that he is not at the intoxication level of
“recognizably drunk”. In such a case, he should take care to daven from a
siddur.
According to all views, if he is at the intoxication level of “recognizably
drunk” he must absolutely refrain from davening. If he insists on davening
in that condition, his davening is not valid, and he must daven again when
he is sober.
Thus, if after the Purim seuda one was at the level of “recognizably drunk”
he should not attempt to daven maariv. Rather he should go to sleep
and try to wake up before alos hashachar (72 minutes before sunrise)
and daven at home. If he was unable to get up, he should daven a second
Shemone Esrei at shacharis as restitution for missing maariv.
Hakhel
Note: One should advise those who are in level B or C as to how to properly
conduct themselves as to davening.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Our
Annual Purim Bonus Below!
Over the last two weeks, we have provided questions and answers, which are
culled together here, along with additional questions:
QUESTIONS AND
ANSWERS FOR THE PURIM SEUDAH
The
following Questions and Answers are Kosher for Purim and Year-Round use:
QUESTION:
In what year of the Jewish calendar did Purim occur?
ANSWER: According
to Yalkut Me’am Loez, Achashveirosh came to power in the year 3392,
and Haman was hung in 3404.
QUESTION: How
many years did Purim occur before Chanukah?
ANSWER: Approximately
216 years (Sefer Targum Sheini by Rav Tzvi Dov Cohen, Shlita).
QUESTION: Why
isn’t the Shaim Hashem in the Megillah?
ANSWER: Many
answer because Hashem’s presence is hidden in the in the subtle events of
the Megillah. We may suggest that this is to teach us that we should not
fool ourselves--the final battle with Amaleik was not fought then. Only when
the final battle is fought before the building of the Third Beis HaMikdash
will Hashem’s Name become complete. Hakhel Reminder: Chazal teach that
whenever the term ‘HaMelech’ is used in the Megillah in lieu of HaMelech
Achashveirosh that it also LeHavdil refers to Hashem (Esther Rabba 3:10).
Look out for it and think about how!
QUESTION: How
many wars between Bnei Yisrael and Amaleik are mentioned in Tanach?
ANSWER:
Actually, there were at least eleven (11) battles with Amalek in Tanach, in
one form or another. In the Torah--3 BATTLES: a) Shemos 17: 8 and Devorim
25:17; b) Bamidbar 14:45; and c) Bamidbar 21:1 and 33:40. In Neviim--6
BATTLES : a) Shoftim 3:13; b) Shoftim 6:3; c) Shoftim 6:33; d) Shmuel Aleph
14:48; e) Shmuel Aleph 15:3; f) Shmuel Aleph 30:1. In Kesuvim--2 BATTLES: a)
Divrei HaYamim Aleph 4:43…and of course b) MEGILLAS ESTHER! It is clear that
this nation has really been out to get us--but in the end we will prevail!
QUESTION: Who
was the king before Achashveirosh?
ANSWER: Coresh-see
first Rashi to the Megillah.
QUESTION: Who
brought Mordechai from Bavel to Shushan?
ANSWER: Coresh--see
Targum to Megillah 2:6.
QUESTION: Mordechai
was the tenth generation to which great personage?
ANSWER: Shaul
HaMelech (Targum Sheni 2:5)
QUESTION: What
other name was Achashveirosh known by in Tanach?
ANSWER: Artachshaste, mentioned in Ezra 4:7. Chazal (Esther Rabbah
1:3) note and interpret each name.
QUESTION: Can you give at least three reasons why Achashveirosh made
his incomparable Mishte at the outset of the Megillah?
ANSWER: 1.
Because he stopped the building of the Beis HaMikdash, and he was sure the
Beis HaMikdash would no longer be rebuilt. With the party, he wanted to
happily demonstrate his final and complete rulership over the Jews (based
upon the Alshich). 2. In honor of his birthday (Midrash Aba Gurion). 3. It
was his wedding feast with Vashti, and this is why Vashti also made a party
(see Targum Yonasan, Ibn Ezra, and Kad HaKemach).
QUESTION: Why
does the Megillah go to such great lengths to describe the wealth of
Achashveirosh’s palace and party? Why do we care?!
ANSWER: It
is to teach us that if this is what those who anger Hashem receive--Kal
Vachomer to those who do Hashem’s will! The G’ra (Al Derech Hapshat)
adds that it is to teach that--if this is how grand Olam Hazeh is – imagine
how great Olam Habah will be--after all, an hour of Olam Habah is worth all
of Olam Hazeh of all time!
QUESTION: Why
didn’t Achashveirosh force people to drink to join in his joy--why was there
no “Oness” to drink?
ANSWER: The
Megillas Sesorim (Megillah 1:8) explains that Achashveirosh wanted the Jews
to sin willingly--”Kedi SheYehenu Beratzon.”
QUESTION: What
did Mordechai do during the seven days of Achashveirosh’s party?
ANSWER: He
served as a Sar HaMashkim, as did Haman (see Rashi to Megillah 1:8). HaRav
Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, explains that he did this in order to save Bnei
Yisrael from Ma’acholos Asuros. However, the Targum teaches that he wasn’t
there and that he davened, and did not eat and drink, for the seven days of
the party (Targum Esther 1:10 ).
QUESTION: One
of the especially named attendees at the Mishte were the ’HaPartemim’(Esther
1:3)--what does ‘HaPartemim’ mean?
ANSWER: Some form of rulership. The Me’am Lo’ez writes that they
ruled over areas near the Euphrates , the Pras River --hence the letters of
the word Peih Reish Tes Mem Yud Mem.
QUESTION: According
to the opinion that Memuchan was Haman:
(A) why was it, BeHashgacha, that he had to give the advice to kill Vashti?;
and (B) Also, al pi hatevah--why would he want to kill Vashti--what did she
do to him already?!
ANSWER: (A) So that he himself should be the cause for Esther to
marry Achashveirosh--so that she could kill him and his sons. (B) He saw
through sorcery that a queen would kill him and he thought it would be
Vashti.
QUESTION: What
is the significance in the fact that the Gematria of Haman and HaMelech are
the same?
ANSWER: One
may suggest that that this is to signify that both Achashveirosh and Haman
had the same feeling of hatred towards Bnei Yisrael.
QUESTION: Why
didn’t Esther relate where she was from?
ANSWER: The easy answer is, because Mordechai instructed her not
to--as the Pasuk clearly states (Esther 2:20). As to the reason for
Mordechai’s instruction, various explanations are given--including a
recognition by Mordechai that perhaps some disaster was going to threaten
K’lal Yisrael and her royal position would be the means of their
salvation--identifying herself now as a Jew could mean an early end to her
position. The Gemara (Megillah 13B) additionally indicates that, even if
there was not an absolute directive by Mordechai to hide her identity,
Esther herself did not want to reveal to Achashveirosh her royal ancestry
(she was a descendant of Shaul HaMelech)--because of her tzniyus and anava.
QUESTION: Why
was Mordechai sitting at the Sha’ar HaMelech not a ‘give away’ as to where
Esther was from?
ANSWER: Daniel appointed his friends to high positions, and appointed
Mordechai to be one of the people in the Sha’ar HaMelech before Esther was
taken as queen (Ibn Ezra).
QUESTION: Instead
of blatantly not bowing to him, why didn’t Mordechai simply avoid Haman and
not go near him?
ANSWER: There
are various explanations for this. The Chofetz Chaim learns that Mordechai
was correcting the mistake of his ancestor Shaul HaMelech, who had
compassion on Haman’s ancestor, the King of Amalek--Agag. As a result of
this misplaced pity, Haman was eventually born and issued his evil edicts.
Mordechai, therefore, was unyielding, and stood up to Haman like a pillar of
iron refusing to give even an inch for the sake of the honor of Heaven and
the honor of Klal Yisrael.
QUESTION: Why
didn’t Mordechai and Esther let Achashveirosh be killed by Bigsan and Seresh
so that Esther could be freed and go back to Mordechai and her people?
ANSWER: She
would have been taken as the queen by the next king anyways, and Mordechai
and Esther understood that a special Hatzalah of Bnei Yisrael would result
from the unique circumstance of her being taken as queen.
QUESTION: Why
didn’t Mordechai tell Achashveirosh of the plot of Bigsan Veseresh
directly--why did he relate it through Esther?
ANSWER: He wanted Esther to be more highly regarded and more
influential before the king (Yosef Lekach).
QUESTION: What
was the sin committed by Bnei Yisrael that prompted the great gezeira against
them?
ANSWER: The
Gemara (Megillah 11A and 12A) lists three reasons: 1) a laxity in Torah
study and Mitzvah observance; 2) participating in Achashveirosh’s first
party in which he used the Keilim of the Beis HaMikdash, and which he hosted
in celebration of the Jews not being redeemed; and 3) bowing down to the
tzelem (idol) of Nevuchadnezzar and/or Haman--, which violated a prohibition
of Avoda Zara. HAKHEL NOTE: We see how severe sin the first one
really is, if it can be compared to such grievous sins as the second two!
QUESTION: On
what day did Haman make the “Pur”?
ANSWER: The
13th day of Nisan (see Rashi to Mesechta Megillah 15A and Malbim
to Esther 3:7).
QUESTION: If
the Megillah says that a ‘Pur’ is simply a Goral, a lottery, why is the term
‘Pur’ used at all?
ANSWER: ’Pur’
indicates a lottery for the bad, whereas Goral indicates a lottery for the
good (HaRav Yaakov MiLisa). Hakhel Note: Thus we see the Venahafoch Hu in
the name Purim itself! Alternatively, the ‘Pur’ is a special name for the
dice that Haman cast (Ya’aros Devash).
QUESTION: Why
was Achashveirosh’s notice to kill the Jews issued so far--almost a year--
in advance--didn’t he realize that this would provide ample time for the
Jews to act?
ANSWER: It was done at Haman’s urging so that the king would not
rescind the decree, for once it was sealed with the royal seal, it could not
be recalled (Malbim Manos HaLevi). Alternatively, one can suggest that
Achashveirosh thought the Jews were powerless before Hashem, based on his
miscalculation they were “not redeemed at the end of their 70 year exile.”
QUESTION: The
Megillah records that ’Pashegen HaKesav’ (Esther 3:14 )--what
does the word “Pashegen” mean?
ANSWER: Rashi
and the Ibn Ezra write that Pashegen means: the text, the nussach,
the content. Artscroll translates it as “copies” (of the document containing
the decree).
QUESTION: How
many humps did the Achashdranim Bnei HaRamachim have? How many legs
did it have?
ANSWER: According
to HaRav Yaakov Emden, Z’TL (Megillah 18A), these were a unique type of
camel with two humps and eight legs, and were accordingly, exceedingly fast.
Fascinatingly HaRav Emden notes that these camels were reportedly in
existence in Persia even in his time. According to others, the phrase refers
to a special type of mule which was driven by expert riders. (See Ibn Ezra
to Esther 8:11 and Rashash to Megillah 18A).
QUESTION: In
addition to his plan to kill all the Jews, what edicts did Haman immediately
issue against them?
ANSWER: Chazal
(Megillah 16B) teach us what the other edicts were from the Pasuk “LaYehudim
Hoysa Orah…” (Esther 8:16 ): The additional decrees included prohibiting
the study of Torah, the observance of Shabbos and Yom Tov, performing a Bris
Mila and the wearing of Tefillin (see Targum Sheini).
QUESTION: Why
did Esther initially refuse Mordechai’s request to appear before the king?
ANSWER: She
thought that she did not have to put herself into danger without first being
called by Achashveirosh, as there would be ample time over the year to speak
to him, and she would probably see Achashveirosh soon as she had not seen
him in 30 days.
QUESTION: Why
did Mordechai emphasize to Esther that she should not be silent “Ba’eis Hazos”--at
this time?
ANSWER: Because
it was Nissan, the time of Geulah, and one should not wait for a different
time.
QUESTION: Why
did Esther ask first that the people fast for her, and then state that she
and her maidens would also fast--wouldn’t it have been Derech Eretz for her
to say that she would fast--and then ask them to fast too?
ANSWER: Chazal (Bava
Kama 82A) teach that if one davens for his friends and needs the same thing,
then he is answered first. She therefore asked them to fast for her, so that
they would be answered and saved first (Maharal).
QUESTION: Why did
Esther ask that everyone fast for three days?
ANSWER:
Chazal teach that Kinah (jealousy), Ta’ava (desire), and Kavod (honor
seeking) take a person out of this world. Thus, one day was designated for
each of these Middos, as the Zohar HaKadosh teaches that Yamim represent
Middos--these three Middos that had to be corrected (Pri Tzaddik, Parashas
Chukas).
QUESTION: The
Megillah teaches that Esther told Mordechai that not only should the Bnei
Yisrael not eat and drink for three days--but that she and her Na’aros would
also fast. Yet, she said “Gam Ani Ven’aarosai Atzum Kein”--Atzum is
in first person singular. What happened to her maidens--weren’t they
supposed to fast as well?
ANSWER: Rav
Shlomo Kluger, Z’tl, in the Sefer HaChaim explains that Esther could only
state what she knew to be the truth--that she would fast. She did not know
what her Na’aros would do privately and she would not say something that she
did not know for certain to be the truth.
QUESTION: Who
in the Megillah was smitten BeSanveirim (illusions) and how was he
cured?
ANSWER: The
Sefer Orah VeSimcha brings the Midrash that Achashveirosh was
suffering from Sanveirim--but when Esther came to the Chatzer, Gavriel
tilted the king’s head towards her and he was healed. Achashveirosh
therefore put out his golden scepter to bring her closer since he was healed
by seeing her.
QUESTION: Why
did the tree that Haman had prepared for Mordechai have to be 50 Amos tall?
ANSWER: Haman
was afraid that the noose would break, and that Mordechai would thereupon be
free of the death penalty (as is the custom in all kingdoms), he thus wanted
to ensure that Mordechai would die from the fall in all events (Ben Dovid).
Alternatively, Haman saw Mordechai in a dream flying on top of his house. He
knew that dreams have substance, so he wanted the tree to be higher than his
house to ensure that this was the meaning of the dream. What the dream
really meant would be (and was) that Mordechai was placed “Al Beis Haman--in
charge of Haman’s house” shortly thereafter!
QUESTION: According
to Chazal, how many students was Mordechai learning with when Haman came in
to take him on the royal horse?
ANSWER: Twenty-two
thousand. This is equivalent to the number of Malochim who escorted Hashem
to Har Sinai. This perhaps demonstrates the new Kabalas HaTorah by Bnei
Yisrael of Kiymu V’Kiblu…we replaced the Malochim when we accepted
the Torah of our own free will!
QUESTION: How
could Mordechai ask Haman for a haircut, after all it was the 16th of
Nissan--the first day of Chol HaMoed?
ANSWER:
The Maharatz Chayes explains that because Mordechai was wearing sack cloth
and ashes, and was about to put on royal garments, he was treated as one who
had just left the Beis HaAssurim--who is permitted to take a hair cut on
Chol HaMoed!
QUESTION: Why
did Esther invite Haman to her party with Achashveirosh? The Gemara gives 12
reasons and Eliyahu HaNavi (as quoted in the Gemara) confirms that Esther
had all 12 of them in mind. Can you name at least three?
ANSWER: The
Gemara may be found in Megillah 15B. Here are several reasons: a) she wanted
Achashveirosh to suspect that she and Haman were plotting together against
him; b) she wanted the Jews not to be overconfident with her political
abilities to get them out of their life threatening situation--by her
inviting Haman to the party(!), they would daven with even greater
intensity; c) she wanted all the other ministers to be jealous of Haman and
so unite against him; d) she wanted Haman to be available to trip himself up
in some way ; e) so that Achashveirosh would not realize that she was Jewish
prior to the party ; and f) so that Hashem would have special mercy on
her--seeing that she, a Nevia and a Tzadekes, would have to be in the same
room with this arch-enemy of the Jews.
QUESTION: At
the first Mishte--Esther’s request was that Achashveirosh and Haman come
back for a second Mishte--why couldn’t she accomplish her goal at the first
Mishte?
ANSWER: Esther
did not sense any change that had occurred in K’lal Yisrael’s situation at
the time--and she was expecting to see a sign that the Tefillos and fasts
were accepted. Indeed, the next morning brought Haman parading Mordechai
through the streets of the capital--the sign was there! (Ibn Ezra)
Alternatively, the Chasam Sofer explains that Amaleik is defeated by “Machar”--you
wait until ‘tomorrow’ in order to defeat them (see Rashi to Shmuel I 30:17).
QUESTION: Esther
told Achashveirosh “She’eilasi U’Vakashasi”. What is the difference
between a She’eilah and a Bakasha?
ANSWER:
Some explain that a She’eilah is for the short term, and Bakasha is
for the long term. It is for this reason that Esther later said “Nafshi
V’She’eilasi VeAmi BeVakashasi” (7:3)--for it was the nation’s long term
future that was at stake, not only the life of Esther.
QUESTION: For how
long was Haman hung on the tree?
ANSWER: From
16 Nisan--until 14 Adar of the next year. This was for the world to see that
the Bnei Yisrael were not to be killed but respected. Finally, on the 14th of
Adar almost a year later, his sons were hung on the gallows below him (Shailos
U’Teshvous Torah LeShma 321, based upon the Targum Sheni).
QUESTION: Why
is Haman specifically called an Agagi (8:3) when Esther pleads with
Achashveirosh to reverse his decree after Haman was hanged?
ANSWER: The
Bnei Yissaschar explains that usually when a ruler dies, his decrees are
nullified, as his death is viewed as a sign that the decree was
inappropriate. However, because Haman was an Agagi and not really from the
ruling authority of Paras U’Madai, the decree was not nullified, and
Esther had to make a special appeal.
QUESTION: Agag
and Haman each had a son with the same name--what was it?
ANSWER: Veyzasa
(see Esther 9:9 and Targum Sheni).
QUESTION: Which
son of Haman was hung on the lowest rung of the gallows, hanging just an
Amah above the ground?
ANSWER: Veyzasa
(Targum Sheini 9:14). There is a reason for everything--even as to how and
where each of our enemies are punished--otherwise Chazal would not record
it. We similarly find at the Yam Suf that the Mitzriyim were punished in
different ways (being treated in the waters as lead, stones, or straw,
depending upon how they treated the Bnei Yisrael). Everything has a Cheshbon--everything!
QUESTION: What
was the special cause of VeHa’ir Shushan Tzahala VeSameicha (and the
city of Shushan rejoiced)--how was Shushan’s Simcha different from the Jews’
Simcha of Layehudim Hoysa Orah VeSimcha...?
ANSWER: Not only were the Jews happy, but those who respected true
justice were happy as well. When Haman’s decree was first issued, the city
of Shushan was Navocha--they were confused (Manos HaLevi). This was a direct
fulfillment of the Pasuk teaches “Birvos Tzaddikim Yismach Ha’am…when
the righteous become great the people will rejoice, when the wicked men rule
the people sigh.” (Mishlei 29:2) Alternatively, the term “VeHa’ir Shushan”
indicates that not only did the people rejoice, but even the inanimate
objects of the city--the trees and rocks also rejoiced together with the
rejoicing of Mordechai HaTzaddik.
QUESTION: Why
did Achashveirosh suddenly turn from a Jew-hater into a king who provided a
royal decree helping the Jews to quash all of their enemies?
ANSWER:
The Sefer Ya’aros Devash explains that Achashveirosh, through
necromancy, learned that his successor as king would be a Jew. He bitterly
hated the Jews for this reason, for he assumed that they would rebel against
him and take over his throne. When he learned that Esther was a Jew--he
realized that his son Daryavesh--a Jew--would be the next king, and he was
greatly relieved and pleased that the rulership would stay in his ‘family’.
QUESTION: Why
is Charvona “Zachur Latov”?
ANSWER: Some
learn that the officer Charvona is spelled earlier in the Megillah with an
“Aleph”, and later in the Megillah with a “Hey” (when he tells Achashveirosh
about Haman’s tree) because it is actually not the same person. Earlier in
the Megillah (1:10) he is an officer of Achashveirosh. Later, it is Eliyahu
HaNavi, merely posing as Charvona, who we remember for the good. Others
learn that the officer Charvona had Hirhurei Teshuva, and is thus remembered
for the good.
QUESTION:
How many mishtaos, or parties, are mentioned all-told in the Megillah?
ANSWER: Six--a)
the Mishte of Achashveirosh for all of Persia; b) the additional Mishte
which Achashveirosh made for seven days for just Shushan; c) the separate
Mishte of Vashti; d) the Mishte made by Achashveirosh when Esther became
queen; e) the first Mishte among Esther, Achashveirosh and Haman; f) the
next day--the second Mishte among Esther, Achashveirosh and Haman. If that
isn’t enough, the Megillah separately records that Haman and Achashveirosh
sat down separately simply “to drink” when the King’s initial order against
the Jews was sent out (Esther 3:15 )!
QUESTION: How
many people were hanged in the course of the Megillah?
ANSWER: 13--Haman,
his ten sons, Bigsan, and Seresh.
QUESTION: Name
two evil people in the Megillah whose names rhyme.
ANSWER: Zeresh
and Seresh (Seresh, one of the infamous plotters whose plan was overheard by
Mordechai).
QUESTION: Why
did Esther request of the king that the Bnei Yisrael be given an extra day
to fight their enemies in Shushan (Megillah 9:13 )?
ANSWER: The
Megillas Sesarim (HaRav Yaakov MeLisa--the Nesivos) writes that Shushan had
more Kedusha in it because the Sanhedrin was there, and because Mordechai
was a Navi. When Haman’s Gezeira was put into effect the Kedusha was lost,
and could not return until the Tumah was eradicated. Esther saw that the
Ruach HaKodesh had not yet come back, so she understood that the Tumah in
the city was still there. Accordingly, the 10 sons of Haman had to be hung,
the other Amaleikim in the city obliterated--and the Kedusha then returned!
QUESTION: What
happened to Zeresh?
ANSWER: Well,
first of all, we curse her every year--”Arura Zeresh Aishes Mafchidi”.
The Targum ( 9:14 ) writes that she ran away with 70 of her sons, and they
became beggars. A Rav taught that this was truly a tremendous
punishment--for not only is an ani considered like a mais--but she lived to
see Mordechai the Jew in control of all Haman’s property and possessions.
QUESTION: What
happened to all of Haman’s possessions?
ANSWER: The
Midrash (Shocher Tov 22) teaches that Haman’s money was distributed as
follows: 1/3 to Mordechai and Esther, 1/3 to those involved in Torah study,
and 1/3 toward reconstruction of the Beis Hamikdash. What a V’Nahafoch Hu!
QUESTION: Why
do the unwalled cities and walled cities have different days for observing
Purim?
ANSWER: The Shoel
U’Maishiv brings the Ramban who writes that the walled city dwellers
didn’t sense the miracle as much because they thought that they were secure
in their walled cities--and Mordechai and Esther got them to understand that
the miracle very much applied to them as well! Do you think you’re secure
because you have an alarm system?...
QUESTION:
If you rearrange the letters of “Shushan”, what does it spell?
ANSWER:
“Sasson”--or happiness!
QUESTION:
Identify six instances of Middah K’neged Middah that appear in the
Megillah.
ANSWER:
a) Vashti made Jewish girls who were her captives work for her
unclothed--and so she was ordered to come before the king unclothed
(Megillah 12B); b) Haman was hung on the tree that he prepared for
Mordechai; c) Bigsan and Seresh wanted to kill the king, yet they were
killed instead; d) The Jews ate and drank at Achashveirosh’s party, so they
were forced to fast for three days; e) Haman wanted everyone to bow to
him--at the penalty of death, and in the end Achashveirosh ordered him to be
killed--because he fell before Esther; and f) Mordechai put on sackcloth and
ashes on his head over what Haman had decreed, and in the end, took over
Haman’s position, wearing the royal apparel and a large gold crown.
QUESTION: What
famous American object has the same gematria as “Amaleik”? What can you
learn from that?
ANSWER: Amaleik
has the same gematria as “dollar”--both have the numerical equivalent of
240. As far as the lesson, we will only point to Amaleik’s
grandfather--Esav--and his passion for money and worldly goods. We leave
other lessons up to you.
QUESTION: Which
cities in Eretz Yisrael (and outside it) in our time would read the Megillah
on two days--the fourteenth and the fifteenth of Adar because of a doubt as
to whether they were walled from the time of Yehoshua Bin Nun?
ANSWER: According
to the Sefer Adar U’Purim by HaRav Yoel Schwartz, Shlita: Among the
cities--In Eretz Yisrael: Chevron, Yafo, Gush Chalav, Akko, Tzefas, Lod,
Shechem and Teveria (which is a separate issue--See Megillah 5B). In Chutz
La’Aretz: Damascus and Baghdad .
QUESTION: What
are the last five seforim in Tanach?
ANSWER: According
to the printed Tanach, the last five Seforim are the Megillos of Koheles and
Esther, followed by Daniel, Ezra-Nechemia and Divrei HaYamim. However, the
Gemara in Bava Basra 14B-15A lists the following as the last Seforim of
Tanach: Eichah (describing the Churban), followed by Daniel, Megillas
Esther, Ezra-Nechemia and Divrei HaYamim. This second listing is, obviously,
also chronological, as Sefer Daniel discusses periods prior to the events of
Megillas Esther.
QUESTION: Who
in the Megillah sought after the peace of one person and was rewarded with
being Zoche to seek the peace of his entire people?
ANSWER: The
Megillah teaches that Mordechai went “Lidrosh Es Shlom Esther”
( 2:11 ). Chazal teach that Hashem said “You went to seek the peace of one
person--in this merit you will seek the peace of your entire nation--Vedover
Shalom Lechol Zaro.” (Esther Raba 6:6). What a great lesson--how great
it is to seek someone else’s peace--think about to where it can lead!
Perhaps our Mishloach Manos and Matanos L’Evyonim are to serve as our jump
start in seeking the peace of others!
QUESTION: How
many words are there in the “Al Hanisim” of Purim?
ANSWER: In
Nusach Ashkenaz, there are 68. HaRav Yaakov Emden in his Siddur writes that
68 is the Gematria of “Chaim”--and we thank Hashem for the life he granted
us at that time--which has its life-bearing effects to this day, which will
continue forever and ever!
QUESTION: Why
do we refer to the giving of gifts as Mishloach Manos, and not merely as
Shlo’ach Manos?
ANSWER:
The letter mem means ‘from’. The Pasuk states ‘Mishloach Manos
Ish L’Rei’aihu U’Matanos LaEvyonim’ (Esther 9:22). The goal is that from dedicated
Mishloach Manos will result sincere Matanos LaEvyonim as well!
QUESTION: True
or false? In order to fulfill the mitzvah of Mishloach Manos, you must give
two different foods that have two different Brachos.
ANSWER: False.
Mishloach Manos must just consist of two different portions of food--they
can both be meat, or any other type of food or drink (See Shulchan Aruch,
Orach Chaim 695:4 and Mishna Berurah there).
QUESTION: What
did the G’ra send for Mishloach Manos?
ANSWER: The
Sefer Ma’aseh Rav (249) provides the answer: Cooked chicken and
cooked fish, and similar ready-to-eat items.
QUESTION: How
can one fulfill the principle of Nosei BeOl Im Chaveiro by accepting Mishloach
Manos?
ANSWER:
The Torah Jew generally does not like to receive gifts as that Pasuk
teaches, Sonei Matanos Yichyeh. Thus, by accepting another’s gift to
help him fulfill the Mitzvah, one is overcoming his overall hesitancy to
accept gifts!
QUESTION: What
is the source for the wearing of costumes on Purim?
ANSWER:
The Sefas Emes explains that after Achashveirosh’s second decree in favor of
the Jews, many people dressed up as Jews (Misyahadim) in order to save their
lives. We dress up to remind ourselves of how they dressed up--to be like
us!
QUESTION: Why were two days of Purim necessary --Purim itself and
Shushan Purim, after all, was not the majority of the miracle completed by
the 14th of Adar?
ANSWER:
Perhaps the most common answer to this question is that with Shushan Purim
we give special Kavod to the cities of Eretz Yisrael, as Shushan Purim is
celebrated in cities walled from the time of Yehoshua ben Nun--which
included many cities in Eretz Yisrael. The Chasam Sofer, however, explains
that since people are so busy with the Mitzvos of the day, there may not be
as much Torah learning on Purim as there is on other days. Accordingly,
Purim is ‘split’ into two days--so that there will be Torah studied in one
place, when it is not studied in another!
As we
move through Purim Day, we should remind ourselves of the words of the
Arizal (found in the Pri Eitz Chaim) that EVERY Purim the Neis of
Mordechai and Esther is re-aroused. What a day--what an experience!
MAY
WE GO FROM REDEMPTION TO REDEMPTION!
================================
11 Adar
IMPORTANT NOTES ON TEFILLAH AND
PURIM:
1. A Vasikin Minyan in Flatbush is beginning to daven 15 minutes earlier on
Purim in order for the Tzibbur to recite Tehillim B’Tzibbur on this special
Eis Ratzon. Perhaps your Shul can do the same before its Shacharis minyan!
2. One should be sure to prepare a list of what he will be davening for on
Purim, so that it is thought through in advance and readily available for
timely use.
3. Several days ago, we had pointed out that HaRav Mattiyahu Salomon, Shlita,
brought a special Tefillah from the Chida to be recited in a Eis Ratzon--to
allow all further Tefillos on a daily basis to be connected to the Eis
Ratzon. By the following link
http://tinyurl.com/zraeg8z we provide the amazing actual text of HaRav
Salomon’s teaching from his Sefer Matnas Chaim.
4. May we suggest that on the auspicious day of
Purim we recite the Tefillah Ahl HaGeulah we have previously
distributed:
http://tinyurl.com/2u3l4e (Hebrew
version) and http://tinyurl.com/3ybyxq (English
version).
---------------------------------------------------------------
WRITE IT DOWN!
The Midrash teaches us that Achashveirosh had a middah tova. When
someone did something good for him, he would write it down. Thus, when
Achashveirosh could not sleep that night, Mordechai’s good deed was read and
rewarded…and we are here today as a result! If Achashveirosh could maintain
this midda tova--all the more so should we put it into use in our
lives!
--------------------------------------------
PREPARING TO DESTROY AMALEIK!
HaRav Chatzkel Levenstein, Z’tl, teaches that in our times we cannot fully
obliterate Amaleik--for even to begin with, we do not know with certainty
all the people who constitute Amaleik. So, in our time, our ikar
Mitzvas Mechiyas Amaleik is to despise and destroy the Amaleik, the evil
within us--in preparation for destroying the Amaleik from without--which as
a result will hopefully take place in the very near future!
--------------------------------------------
QUESTIONS OF THE DAY--ARE YOU GETTING READY FOR PURIM?:
A.
Give two examples in the Megillah where Hashem provided for the Refuah
before the Makkah.
B.
Esther told Achashveirosh that the decrees against the Jewish people were
Lehashmid LeHarog U’Le’abeid. This means that we were saved from
three different decrees--what were they?
C.
There is a dispute among Tanaim as to where the Megillah needs to be
read from. According to Rebbi Yehuda--from where must we begin to
read? Hint: Note Rebbi Yehuda’s name.
D.
The Megillah contains the phrase Rochvei HaRechesh (Esther
8:10)--what does the word HaRachesh mean?
E. It
is a Minhag Yisrael to eat hamantaschen. Why--did Haman have bizarre
ears? a strange wallet? weird pockets? What is the basis of the Minhag?
F.
The Megillah (Esther 7:8) teaches that the last thing that Achashveirosh
saw before ordering Haman executed was the tree that Haman intended to hang
Mordechai on. Chazal, in fact, teach that the allusion to Haman in the Torah
is from the Pasuk: “HaMin HaEitz Asher Tzivisicha Levilti Achol Mimenu
Achalta.” (Bereishis 3:11) What is the meaning of the association
of Haman with trees?
--------------------------------------------
THE
ELEVENTH!
Today is the 11th day of Adar--the first day mentioned in Mesechta Megillah
(2A) that the Megillah could be read under certain circumstances. Do you
feel greater Simcha coming on? If not…start working on it!
HAKHEL NOTE: The Luach Davar B’Ito brings from Rebbi Yitzchak
MiVorka, Z’tl, that the three days before Purim correspond to the three days
before Shavuos--the Sheloshes Yemei Hagbalah--and the more that a
person purifies himself to receive the Torah of Purim--Kiymu V’Kiblu--the
more he will succeed. Let’s get to work!
--------------------------------------------
A
PURIM MOMENT!
We
provide by the following link--http://tinyurl.com/yjsytzl
a flyer relating to The Power of Purim that has been distributed for many
years. Please feel free to distribute and redistribute!
In a
very similar vein, by the following link--http://tinyurl.com/ysf6m7
you will find an important message distributed by the Chofetz Chaim Heritage
Foundation. Hakhel Note: Dovid HaMelech teaches us in Hallel (Tehillim 116:1
et. al.) “Ahavti Ki Yishma Hashem Es Koli Tachanunai…Dalosi Veli
Yehoshia--I love Him, for Hashem hears my voice, my supplications…I was
brought low, but He saved me.” Chazal teach that even when we are poor in
Mitzvos, Hashem saves us through our Tefillos--let us activate our Koach
HaTefillah on Purim--and urge others to do so as well!
Additional Note: It is fascinating to recall that Rav Amram Gaon writes
that the Minhag in the two main Yeshivos during the time of the Geonim, Sura
and Pumbedisa, was to actually recite Tachanun on Purim--“for it is a day of
miracles, and upon which we were redeemed, and so we must ask for mercy that
we will be redeemed in the end in the same way that we were initially
redeemed.” As we will soon enter the period between the Geulah of Purim and
the Geulah of Mitzrayim, a time in which for the next two weeks we will all
be reciting Tachanun and/or other prayers for Geulah, we should be very
mindful to recite them with strong and special Kavannah because, without
mincing words, it is, simply stated, a time of Geulah. Everyone should try
and keep a daily record, or at least a real mental note, of the special and
sincere prayers he has made for the Geulah during this auspicious period.
--------------------------------------------
LEARNING FROM THE GEMATRIA OF MORDECHAI HAYEHUDI:
We
once again provide the following exceptional excerpt from “The Light of
the Ben Ish Chai on Megillat Esther” “--the commentary of the Ben Ish
Chai on the Megillah, as translated by Rabbi Yerachmiel Bratt, Shlita (as
you give your Mishloach Manos with one hand, perhaps you can give this
wonderful sefer to your friend with the other!): “The Chida in the name of
Rav Germiza stated that the gematria of the expression Mordechai HaYehudi
(Mordechai the Jew) equals the name of Hashem as Shakai (shin dalet and yud;
314). The name Shakai indicates that Hashem controls all and that He can
completely up heave the powers of the spheres of the universe. As a true
Amaleki, after Haman told his family of his honor and fortune, he stated
that all was valueless to him when he saw Mordechai HaYehudi. Haman
specifically referred to Mordechai as Mordechai HaYehudi because he was
really referring to Hashem’s control over the balance of power in the
universe. In one fell swoop, Hashem could shift power from Haman to
Mordechai. Indeed, Zeresh and Haman’s advisors urged Haman to take swift
action before the balance of power in the universe shifted in favor of
Mordechai. Their human thoughts fell short and unaccomplished. Shortly
thereafter, Mordechai HaYehudi ascended to power while Haman and his sons
were overthrown and hanged....”
Hakhel
Note: Is it no small wonder, then, that this name of Hashem--Shakai--is
placed upon our Mezuzos to remind us Who is in control of all as we come
and go!
--------------------------------------------
THOUGHTS FOR TA’ANIS ESTHER:
1.
There is a special inyan to recite Tehillim Chapter 22 on Ta’anis
Esther and Purim, for this is the Kepitel recited by Esther herself upon
entering Achashveirosh’s throne room uninvited (See Kav HaYashar 97).
The Kav HaYashar adds that when we gather today in Shul to daven, we
are considered to be in the “Chatzar HaMelech”--and “Bevadai”,
surely through our Selichos and Tefillos we arouse Mordechai HaTzadik and
Esther HaMalka--who will “certainly join” in our Tefillos. Accordingly, he
writes, that Ta’anis Esther is a day which is “MESUGAL ME’OD” for our
tefillos to be accepted in the zechus of Mordechai VeEsther. “One who needs
mercy from Hashem should recite Tehillim Chapter 22, and then pour his heart
out to Hashem for the mercy he needs--especially mentioning the Zechus of
Mordechai and Esther in whose Zechus the Sha’arei Rachamim should be opened
and his Tefillos should be accepted.”
Additional Note One: The Kav HaYashar also brings that the days of
Ta’anis Esther and Purim are days of Ratzon V’Ahava--let us utilize
them to our utmost.
Additional Note Two: The G’ra holds that this Chapter is actually the Shir
Shel Yom for Purim itself.
2.
Rebbetzin Kanievsky, A’H, urged women to recite on Ta’anis Esther Tehillim
Chapters 28, 32, 79, 92, and 22, followed by Acheinu Kol Bais
Yisrael. Hakhel Note: The Chasam Sofer writes that the Megillah especially
teaches that Mordechai expressed a “Tze’akah Gedolah U’Marah” when he
learned of Haman’s decree. In the end, however, his pleas and the pleas of
his people turned the decree 180 degrees. This should teach us that whatever
the situation, Hashem is in control, and the Tze’akah Marah can
unbelievably change to Tzahalah VeSimcha!
3. The
Yesod V’Shoresh HaAvodah (Sha’ar 12: Perek 3) writes that one should
increase his Torah study on Ta’anis Esther…maybe you can learn just a
little more in honor of this great day?
4.
When contributing Machatzis HaShekel today, one should say “Zecher
L’Machatzis HaShekel”--this is the remembrance of the Machatzis
HaShekel, so as not to leave the impression that this is an actual
contribution to the Bais HaMikdash, which was given at this time of year. (Luach
Eretz Yisrael of Rav Tukchinsky Z’tl)
5. The
Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 686, seif katan 2) writes the
following about Ta’anis Esther: “It is called Ta’anis Esther so that we
remember that Hashem Yisborach sees and listens to each person in his time
of trouble when he fasts and returns to Hashem with all of his heart, as was
done at that time.” We must not lose sight of the fact that Teshuva is a
tremendously important part of the day today. As we look at the troubled
state of our brethren in Eretz Yisrael and worldwide, and at the turbulent
and tottering state of all of mankind, Teshuva should certainly be a high
priority today--make it yours!
6.
Because it is a tough request--so it is another reminder: on Purim,
one should endeavor to give Mishloach Manos not only to his relative, his
best friend or his neighbor, but also to someone whom you are a little bit
“on the outs” with, or with whom you do not speak enough, or with whom you
have a somewhat cool relationship for various reasons, or for a particular
reason, or for no reason at all. Now--today--is the time to think about who
this person or those people will be…there is no better time to break the
ice--or even to warm the cool water--by knocking on someone’s door
unsolicited with a smile and a colorful Mishloach Manos. What better way
could there be to dispel the claims of Haman HaRasha that we are “a
dispersed and separated people”? Anyone who dislikes coolness, discord or
dispute between two groups or even within one group of our people should
also move to eliminate it from within himself and his family, as well.
So…get ready, practice and rehearse--knock on that door…and “PURIM SAMEACH”-”A
FREILICHIN PURIM”-”HAPPY PURIM”!
--------------------------------------------
MACHATZIS HASHEKEL:
Chazal teach that Haman told Mordechai “Your Machatzis HaShekel
contributions preceded and bested my offer of 10,000 talents of silver.”
Indeed, today we are, once again, giving our Zecher L’Machatzis HaShekel. This
may very well be a reminder to us that we should be on the alert to give “Shekalim”,
Tzedakah, in order for us to stave off and avert the designs and decrees of
the Hamans of our generation. Let us remember, as we recite in the Haggadah,
that “in every generation they stand up to destroy us and HaKadosh Baruch Hu
saves us from their hand.” With our Tzedaka, we will hopefully give HaKadosh
Baruch Hu all the ammunition that He needs.
Hakhel Note: In fact, HaRav Matisyahu Salomon, Shlita, quotes the
famous Rambam in Hilchos Megillah. The Rambam writes that “it is better for
a person to give more Matanos L’Evyonim than it is to spend money on a
larger Seudas Purim or Mishloach Manos--for there is no Simcha Gedola
U’Mefo’ara--there is no greater or more glorious joy--than one who makes
the unfortunate happy.” Indeed, HaRav Salomon notes, both the Nefesh HaChaim
and the Zohar HaKadosh write that if one brings Simcha to the world; he is
bringing Rachamim--mercy--into the world, and changing Din, the attribute of
strict justice, to Rachamim, Heavenly Mercy--and there can be nothing better
than that! Our service, then, at this time of year, is to open the gates of
Rachamim that we so desperately need opened so wide by bringing Simcha into
the world through our own Simchas HaChaim, and all the more so by bringing
others Simchas HaChaim--making others happy as well!
Additional Note: If you have not yet given to the Matanos L’Evyonim Kiryat
Sefer dollar for dollar match for Bnei Torah--remember
yadeliezer.org!!
================================
10 Adar
TOMID!
HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita, points out that the Rema begins Shulchan
Aruch with the Pasuk: “Sheivisi Hashem L’Negdi Somid” (Tehillim
16:8), and ends Shulchan Aruch with a Pasuk: “V’Tov Lev Mishteh Tomid”
(Mishlei 15:15). HaRav Salomon teaches that the Rema wants us to understand
that all aspects of life [Orach Chaim!] are miracles, and that there is no
teva or way of the world. Rather, everything that occurs in our lives
is B’Hashgacha Pratis, and we must realize that Hashem is always a Tov
U’Maitiv, with even difficult situations, hurt and pain part of a larger
good. The intricacies of the Neis Purim over a nine year period, with
interlocking events and people should help us realize that not only do we
constitute living miracles--but that miracles are constantly occurring to us
and all around us each and every moment of our lives. Hashem is with us--Tomid!
--------------------------------------------
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: To
help continue to arouse the spirit of Mishenichnas Adar Marbin B’Simcha,
we provide the following questions (and answers!) relating to the events of
Megillas Esther:
1. QUESTION: If only Mordechai did not bow down to Haman--and the
rest of K’lal Yisrael in Shushan Habira did--then why would Haman want them
killed, after all, they were doing his will?
ANSWER: This
is yet another example of a Sonei Yisrael showing his true colors!
2. QUESTION: What are the first letters of Yavo HaMelech V’Haman
HaYom (Esther 5:4)--and what is their significance at this point in the
Megillah?
ANSWER:
The letters are, of course, the letters Yud-Key-Vuv-Key--the Sheim Hashem
that demonstrates Hashem’s great mercy for us. By putting herself at a feast
with the horrible Achashveirosh and Haman, Esther was pleading with Hashem
to override the Middas Hadin and bring upon K’lal Yisrael His Middas
HaRachamim!
3. QUESTION: The Megillah is one of the Kisvei HaKodesh--which
has rules as to how it is written and how it is read. Why is Megillas Esther
referred to as an Igeres, and when read in public, is opened not
formally like a Sefer Torah--but actually folded over like a letter.
ANSWER: HaRav
Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, explains that the Megillah contains three major
Letters, the Igeres that Achashveirosh initially sent out for men to rule
in their homes--which casted some aspersion on the second Igeres of Haman to
destroy the Jewish nation--and then the third Igeres, giving the Jews
the opportunity to defeat their enemies. Because of the great importance of
the ‘Igeres’ on Purim, the Megillah itself, albeit one of the
Kisvei Kodesh, is also read like an Igeres. HaRav Kanievsky also
points out that the reason that the Purim Mishteh plays such an important
role on Purim day for us is because the many Mishta’os in the Megillah are
such an important part of the chronology of the Nes.
4. QUESTION: Achashveirosh authorized the Jews to take the spoils of
war from their enemies. Yet, the Megillah (Esther 9:15) teaches U’vabizah
Lo Shalachu Es Yadam--that K’lal Yisrael refused to take any booty. Why?
ANSWER: The
Rabbeinu Bachya writes that the property of Amaleikim is assur b’hana’ah--so
that there is no remembrance of Amaleik by someone saying this belonged to
Amaleik or that belonged to Amaleik. If so--how, then, was Esther able to
take over the Bais Haman and all of its assets (Esther 8:7)? HaRav Chaim
Kanievsky explains that Haman had truly sold himself into slavery to
Mordechai--and
everything that belongs to a slave belongs to his master--so everything that
Esther was taking really belonged to Mordechai!
5. QUESTION: Why is Purim not celebrated on the 13th of
Adar--after all, was that not the day that the Ikar Neis
occurred--the day that the Jews were to be annihilated, turning into a day
of the Jewish people defeating their enemies?
ANSWER: HaRav
Chaim Kanievsky suggests that on the 13th the Jews were not sure
that the enemy had truly succumbed--and the possibility existed of a
counter-attack on the 14th. When on the 14th the Jews
were able to rest and did not face further conflict, they realized that
Hashem had sent them a complete Yeshuah!
--------------------------------------------
DEMONSTRATING LOVE OF HASHEM:
Our Kabalas HaTorah on Purim differed from our Kabalas HaTorah on Shavuos,
in that our acceptance of the Torah on Purim came out of love rather than
fear. How does one express this new-found love? The Mishna Berurah (Shulchan
Aruch, Orach Chaim, 61; seif katan 2) quotes a Yerushalmi which identifies
each one of the Aseres HaDibros in different phrases in Kriyas Shema. The
words “V’Ahavta Es Hashem--and you shall love Hashem”--at the outset
of Kriyas Shema alludes to the second of the Aseres HaDibros--not to take
Hashem’s name in vain. Thus, one very practical way to demonstrate his love
for Hashem is to be very, very careful with reciting Brachos, as these are
the crucial moments of the day that we are privileged to actually recite the
name of Hashem. If one is unsure whether or not he made a Bracha Achrona or
has made an Asher Yatzar, he must realize that he is not being careful
enough, and should undertake some form of correction, at least on a
temporary basis, to demonstrate that he really does love Hashem. You may
have other ways to demonstrate your love--and they may all well be within
the Purim Spirit! We welcome your thoughts.
--------------------------------------------
PESAKIM OF HARAV SHMUEL KAMENETSKY, SHLITA:
We
present below many Pesakim of HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky, Shlita, relating to
Purim from the expanded version of Kovetz Halachos for Purim, by his
close Talmid, Rabbi Doniel Kleinman, Shlita.
PART
II
A.
Each time one gives Mishloach Manos, he fulfills the Mitzvah of Mishloach
Manos. The two items of Mishloach Manos must be of two different
species--so that one would not fulfill the Mitzvah by giving the top and the
bottom of a piece of chicken, a red and green apple, or white wine and red
wine--even though they may have different tastes. A salad, even if it
contains several different vegetables, is considered one portion.
B.
Mishloach Manos should be of a Shiur which one usually honors a guest with
in his home. The food or drinks supplied should be a davar chashuv.
In this regard, although one or a few chips or candies, for instance, would
not be a davar chashuv--if one gives an entire bag or box, the
individual items collectively, would be considered a davar chashuv.
The item being sent should be based upon the recipient--so one who is
sending to a minor could give cake and candies, and these would be
chashuv in his eyes. Water or seltzer would not be considered
chashuv, but other drinks could be. Spices and condiments are not
considered valid manos--for they are not eaten by themselves, but only used
to aid other foods. Ketchup and mustard would likewise not be a valid item
for Mishloach Manos. One can send an item to his friend who may not be able
to eat it because he is allergic, as other members of his family could eat
it in his stead. The items sent must be ready-to-eat, and therefore could
not consist of raw fish or meat, a coffee container, or tea bags, all of
which require further preparation. Both portions of the Mishloach Manos
must be delivered at the same time, and cannot be delivered one after the
other.
C. If
one delivers Mishloach Manos to another who is not home and leaves it by the
door and does not tell him--and the recipient returns home after Purim--he
is not Yotzei the Mitzvah of Mishloach Manos with that person. However, if
a person sends Mishloach Manos before Purim and it arrives on Purim, he is
Yotzei the Mitzvah. Similarly, if one leaves Mishloach Manos at his
friend’s door Purim night and his friend discovers it in the morning, one is
Yotzei Mishloach Manos.
D. If
one gives Mishloach Manos to a mumar who is Mechalel Shabbos, he has
nevertheless fulfilled the Mitzvah. If an adult sends Mishloach Manos to a
minor--he has nevertheless fulfilled the Mitzvah.
E. It
is a Machlokes HaPoskim whether a person who purchases a utensil in order to
give it to his friend as a present is considered as if he ‘is doing
business’ with the utensil, in which case it would not require tevilah
while in his possession. Indeed, according to the Taz, the giver
cannot tovel the item--the tevilah does not help--and
the bracha is a bracha levatalah, for the recipient must tovel the
item. HaRav Kamenetsky, however, holds that when one buys an object with
the intent of giving it to his friend, it is considered as if he is buying
it for himself, and it is considered his--it is just that he intends in the
future to give it to his friend. Accordingly, he would be able to tovel
the utensil, and give it to his friend. Hakhel Note: Based upon this
Machlokes HaPoskim, one resolution may be to put a sticker on the utensil
stating that it is ‘Not Toveled’. In all events, one should consult
with his Rav or Posek as to the proper method for delivering Mishloach
Manos--when giving a utensil with it.
F.
Once a child has reached a basic level of understanding, then a boy should
not be dressed as a girl, nor a girl as a boy.
G. As
brought in the Rema to Shulchan Aruch, one should learn Torah immediately
prior to the Purim Seudah, since the Pasuk states “LaYehudim Haysa Orah
V’Simcha”--the light of Torah must precede the Simcha of the meal
because it brings a person to true Simcha. It is not sufficient for a
person to rely on his study of Torah in the morning [such as at Yeshivas
Mordechai HaTzaddik!].
H.
Women are equally as obligated in the Seuda as men. Women should also drink
a little bit (a revi’is or less) of wine, and can also be Yotzei with grape
juice instead of wine. However, there is no obligation for children under
Bar/Bas Mitzvah to drink even grape juice. It is, in all events, forbidden
for anyone to become drunk. Hakhel Note: HaRav Kamenetsky’s lesson is
clear--our Seudah should be graced only by the Yetzer Hatov and the Torah
atmosphere that Mordechai HaTzadik and Esther HaMalka were ready to give
their lives for--and would be so proud of!
Additional Note: As Mishloach Manos time draws nearer and nearer, we are
reminded not to forget the Bain Odom LaMakom when beautifully performing
this great Mitzvah of Bain Odom LeChaveiro. This means that especially
meaningful brachos should be made upon the Manos received. One point: If
you received a small cookie and a large, but sliced piece of cake, and you
intend to eat both, which item would you make the Borei Minei Mezonos on?
The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 168:1) rules that it is more chashuv to make
a bracha on a shalem--on a whole, uncut item even if it is smaller--than to
make a bracha on a non-whole item--even if it is larger. One can also
deduce the obvious mussar lessons from this as well!
===================================
9 Adar
GIVING THANKS!
We may forget all too quickly
the Chasodim that Hashem performs for us, and the Refuos and Yeshuos that we
are granted. May we suggest that a person keep on his desk or in a
conspicuous place the bottle of antibiotics that he has now finished, the
remaining cold tablets that he did not have to take or the ace bandage that
once served him well and/or that he does not have to use. Thinking and
thanking--will hopefully lead to more grounds and causes--for thanks!
------------------------------------------------------
RASHI’S ANSWER:
Many
are familiar with the question as to why Mordechai needed to act so quickly
when, after all, the gezeirah to annihilate the Jews would not take effect
for another eleven months. Rashi (Esther 4:14) writes that Mordechai told
Esther that she must take action immediately--for who knows if she will be
in the same position of power the following year at the time of the decree.
Hakhel Note: We learn from Mordechai that there may be legitimate reasons
for delay--but that we should not use them unless one is absolutely certain
that he will not forfeit the opportunity or the circumstance that he
currently possesses. HaRav Shmuel Berenbaum, Z’tl, taught that atzlus
is the bad middah from which all other bad middos come! Our renewed
zerizus should begin even before Purim by preparing to make the most of
this great 24 hour period!
------------------------------------------------------
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:
To help continue to arouse the spirit of Mishenichnas Adar Marbin
B’Simcha, we provide the following questions and answers:
1.
QUESTION:
What two words in the Megillah have the Gematria of 95?
ANSWER:
Both Hamelech and Haman. This may suggest that neither was a lesser enemy of
K’lal Yisrael than the other one was! Fascinatingly, Rabbi Ozer Alport,
Shlita, points out that 95 is also the Gematria of Keis Kah (Shemos
17:16), from which phrase Chazal teach that Hashem swore that neither His
Name nor His Throne will be complete until Amaleik is destroyed. See Rashi
(ibid). The phrase Keis Kah with respect to Amaleik may also teach us
that Hashem’s Hand is hidden in the Megillah--there for us to discover.
2.
QUESTION: Who was the first to do battle with Amaleik?
ANSWER:
Yehoshua Bin Nun (Shemos 17: 9). Some suggest that it is for the honor of
Yehoshua that Chazal required cities walled from his time to read the
Megillah on the 15th.
3.
QUESTION: At the end of the Megillah, the Pasuk brings that
Achashveirosh levied taxes on both the mainlands and the islands (Esther
10:1). Why does the Megillah need to teach us this--what is the connection
to the events of the Megillah?
ANSWER:
HaRav Nosson Wachtfogel, Z’tl, teaches that although K’lal Yisrael was
tremendously uplifted by the great miracles that had occurred--Achashveirosh
did not raise himself spiritually at all, and he continued to focus on
mundane and monetary pursuits--more money, more money…(Leket Reshimos,
p. 113).
4.
QUESTION: At the conclusion of the Purim miracle, Haman and later his
sons are hanged. Why is there no Mitzvah on Purim that relates to
Mechiyas Amaleik which was such a great part of the Purim salvation?
ANSWER:
HaRav Wachtfogel, explains that Simcha Alein Mekt Ouf Amaleik--a
Jew’s Simcha itself destroys Amaleik--and that there is no greater mechiyas
Amaleik than Simcha (ibid., p. 120).
5.
QUESTION: If one, under the direction and guidance of his Rav, engages
in Ahd Delo Yadah--then other than the actual Mitzvos HaYom, what
must one be sure to do prior to Ahd Delo Yadah?
ANSWER:
Teshuvah in Ahavas Reiyim and Ahavas Chaveirim in a real and
substantial way (ibid., 136).
------------------------------------------------------
PESAKIM OF HARAV SHMUEL KAMENETSKY, SHLITA:
We
once again present below many Pesakim of HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky, Shlita,
relating to Purim from the expanded version of Kovetz Halachos for
Purim, by his close Talmid, Rabbi Doniel Kleinman, Shlita. As in all matters
relating to Halacha, one should consult with his own Rav or Posek regarding
his particular facts and circumstances.
PART I
A.
Even if one is exempt from fasting because of illness, he should minimize
the amount of food and drink that he consumes on the Ta’anis. A pregnant
woman and a nursing woman may consume regular amounts, as necessary.
B. If
one intends to rise early on Ta’anis Esther and eat before Alos Hashachar,
he must start his Seudah at least a half hour before Alos, although it is
permissible to eat less than a Kebeitzah within the half hour period.
C.
This Shabbos, a Megillah is not Muktzah (not even Machmas Chisaron Kis)
for one can study Torah from it.
D.
Before one touches his Megillah, he should wash his hands (see Shulchan
Aruch Orach Chaim 147:1).
E.
When Chazal teach that a person who does melacha on Purim will not see a
siman bracha from it, this does not refer to permissible melacha--such as a
dovor ho’avad (matters relating to preventing a financial loss) and
melacha for simcha. Additionally, one is permitted to cut his hair and
nails and do laundry.
F. It
is best if women go to Shul to hear the Megillah read B’Tzibbur. If one has
a wife, a son who has reached the age of Chinuch, and a baby in the
house--who should go to Shul--his wife, or the older child? It would appear
better for the wife to stay home (and hopefully hear the Megillah together
with ten women later) and that he should bring his son to Shul to fulfill
the Mitzvah of Chinuch (BeRov Am).
G. If
someone knows that he will not be able to hear every word in Shul, and will
have to make up the words he does not hear from a Chumash (which is only
Bedi’eved)--it is better to make a smaller Minyan in one’s home and be
yotzeh LeChatchila by hearing every word from a Megillah. However, if one
will be forced to read or hear the Megillah without a Minyan, it is better
to go to Shul and make up the words from one’s Chumash when necessary.
H. If
a person was unable to hear the Megillah at night, he cannot make it up by
hearing the Megillah two times during the day. If one person didn’t hear
the Megillah, and finds nine people who agree to listen again even though
they were already yotzeh, it is still called Megillah B’Tzibbur, which is
Pirsumei Nissah!
I. If
a person senses that he lost his focus on the Megillah, he should read from
his Chumash from the place where he lost his focus until he catches up to
the Ba’al Kriyah. This holds true for both men and women. It is for this
reason that it is best to have one’s own Kosher Megillah, and to lein the
Megillah together with the Chazan. Indeed, if one is uncertain whether he
missed one word of the Megillah (either at night or during the day), he must
hear the entire Megillah reading again.
J. One
does not fulfill his Seudas Purim with a Seudah that he eats on Leil Purim.
Nevertheless, at night, one should have candles burning, the table set, eat
a meal with bread, although he does not need to eat meat. One should also
drink a little wine, but there is no Mitzvah at all at night to drink beyond
that.
K. One
can be Yotzei the Mitzvah of Matanos L’Evyonim with a check even if it is
postdated, because one can use the check in payment or otherwise negotiate
it to someone else.
L. In
a footnote, Rabbi Kleinman brings from the Yesod V’Shoresh HaAvodah
that one who gives freely on Purim makes ‘Tekunim Gedolim BeOlamos
HaElyonim HaKedoshim’. One fulfills Matanos L’Evyonim if he gives
Tzedaka to a Katan and if he gives Tzedaka anonymously.
M. A
woman can be Yotzei her Matanos L’Evyonim through her husband’s giving, but
it is better for her husband to tell her that he is giving on her behalf.
------------------------------------------------------
IMPORTANT PURIM INSIGHTS:
At a
Hakhel Shiur on the meaning of Purim, Rabbi Zev Smith, Shlita, made many
great points, including the following:
1.
The essence of Purim is the realization that “Ain Od Milevado.” This
means that everything that preceded this world’s existence, that everything
that currently exists, and that everything that will exist forever and ever
is Hashem and His Will. Indeed, the name of the Holiday Purim, indicates
that something as “by chance” as a lottery is under the sole and complete
jurisdiction of Hashem.
2.
HaRav Yeruchem Levovitz, Z’tl, taught that one should not only give
Mishloach Manos to friends--but to his “ex-friends” as well.
3.
The Chofetz Chaim, Z’tl, writes in a published letter (Michtevei Chofetz
Chaim 20): “We all know very clearly that Hashem can bring the Geulah
BeChol Regah V’Regah--at any moment--as in the times of Mordechai and
Esther the complete Geulah happened overnight. This is actually an explicit
Posuk recorded in the last Navi, Malachi: ‘Ki Pisom Yavoh El Heichalo--for
He will suddenly come to His Sanctuary.’ We have to be ready always!”
Hakhel Note: Teshuva Bechol Yom--for each and every one of us!
4. An
essential part of Purim Day is “Kiymu VeKiblu.” This does not only refer to
all of Klal Yisrael’s voluntary acceptance of the Torah--but to each
individual’s rededication to Torah, as well. Every person should view it as
part of his Simchas Purim, as part of his Purim mandate, to rededicate
himself to Torah study. Rabbi Smith cited two examples: One--His favorite
Siyum--a subway rider who was not capable of learning Gemara and who
completed Mishnayos in English on his back and forth commute every day.
What an accomplishment! Two--an elderly gentlemen who “did not have time”
to come to a Shiur that Rabbi Smith was giving because he was studying with
tremendous diligence for a Dirshu test. Hakhel Note: We will all be
pressured for time over the next month, with many demands and obligations
upon us. The Chofetz Chaim notes that when one keeps his set time for study
without fail, and in the case of a ‘Dochak Gadol’ makes up his studies
within the day, then a “Kedusha Gedolah Venora’ah--a great and
awesome Kedusha rests on him every single time he learns in this way. Let
us not forget this Kedusha Gedolah Venora’ah every time that we keep
our set time for learning. We suggest that our Kiymu VeKiblu this Purim
involve a special effort in this regard. Remember the words of the Chofetz
Chaim--Kedusha Gedolah Venora’ah--on you!
------------------------------------------------------
THE
COUNT UP TO PURIM!
THE
POWER OF A TZIBBUR: Any Tzibbur, acting together, can bring about Refuos
and Yeshuos (healings and deliverances) that all of K’lal Yisrael, acting
individually, may not necessarily accomplish. The Gemara in Rosh Hashana
(18A) teaches that Hashem is ready to accept the Teshuva of a Tzibbur
the whole year the same way that he accepts the Teshuva of an
individual in the Aseres Y’mei Teshuvah.
In the
Megilla, we learn from the words of “Lech K’nos” (4:16) that
Mordechai and Esther elected to gather all of the Jews in Shushan to daven,
instead of asking everyone to do something on his own.
THE
POWER OF TEFILLA: The power of Tefilla is immeasurable. It can break the
harshest of decrees. Our cries brought about Yetzias Mitzraim. Moshe
Rabbeinu’s pleas broke the decree of destruction at the time of the golden
calf and brought us victory against Amalek. In fact, our Tefillos broke
Haman’s decree to destroy the entire Jewish people during this time of year.
ONCE
AGAIN, OUR GOAL: HAVE KAVANA IN THE FIRST BRACHA OF SHEMONE ESREI:
According to the Shulchan Aruch (101:1), one is required to have Kavanna in
the first Bracha of Shemone Esrei. According to the Mishna Berurah, this
means that one should not daven at all until he feels that he
will have Kavanna in the first Brocha of Shemone Esrei. This is how
important the first Bracha is.
Our
goal is to activate the power of Tzibbur and the power of Tefilla together
by asking each member of the Tzibbur to have Kavanna in the first Bracha of
Shemone Esrei when davening each day from today, through Purim. Please
especially have Kavanna when reciting the words “Ozer” (Helper), “U’Moshia”
(Savior), “U’Magen” (Shield):
-
Ozer--a Helper, who thwarts an existing immediate danger from
overpowering a person (example: you have already been attacked and the
attacker is defeated);
-
Moshia--a Savior, who cancels danger threatening to overpower a person
(example: prior to his attacking, the attacker runs away);
-
Mogen--a Shield, who prevents trouble from reaching you in the first
place (example: the attacker never leaves home).
See Michtav M’Eliyahu 4:65 as brought in Praying with
Fire (page 117).
IMAGINE THE Z’CHUSIM: The z’chusim which can be created by the thousands of
us getting together to have Kavanna--in the first Bracha of Shemone Esrei,
are literally astounding. Davening properly, that is, having Kavanna for
the simple translation of the words of the first Bracha, which we
are all capable of doing with little effort, can convert a lackluster
Shemone Esrei into a true prayer to Hashem. The results will B’EH be Refuos
and Yeshuos for K’lal Yisrael.
==================================
8 Adar
SPECIAL PURIM ZECHUS:
Received from The Chofetz Chaim Heritage Foundation--‘Seven years
ago on Purim night a mini-revolution occurred, and we continue this Purim ‘revolution’.A
beautiful Purim night learning program began l’ilui nishmas Habochur
Hanechmod Yeshayohu Dov Eckstein A”H who learned on what would be his last
‘Purim’ night. Purim was a very special day for Shaya A”H. Although it may
sound hard to believe, except for his bar-mitvah year when he leined the
megillah only 7 times, he leined the megillah over 10 times every Purim for
those home-bound or in the hospital and local nursing homes. For more
details please click on the following link: https://www.jewishboxoffice.com/ch/purimlearning
With your kind donation you will be creating
DOUBLE zechus. The money will be given to bona fide Tzedokah *and* a bochur
will learn in your zechus TWO hours on Purim night.
May the zechus of this special Purim learning--A Torah D’Rabbim give you all
the brochos and yeshu’ois that you need”
--------------------------------------------
MISHLOACH MANOS--BRACHOS
ALERT: At this time
of year, many new products surface, which contain ingredients in various
proportions, and in which the appropriate bracha rishona (and bracha
acharona) is not clear. When shopping for one’s own home--and certainly when
shopping for Mishloach Manos--one should attempt to purchase only those
products on which the brachos are clear. After all, no one would want to be
machshil an adult or child with the wrong bracha. Undoubtedly, an
ikar of Mishloach Manos are the brachos that you are being mezake
another Jew to make!
-------------------------------------------
TAKING A BETTER LOOK:
At a Hakhel Shiur relating to Purim, Rabbi Ben Tzion Shafier, Shlita, urged
everyone to prepare for Purim by reading the Megillah anew without the
influences of his childhood thoughts--but as a Sefer of Tanach. Rather than
view King Acashveirosh as a roly- poly, fickle nitwit, we should realize
instead Chazal’s teaching on the beginning words of the Megillah: ‘Hu
Achashveirosh’--Hu BeRisho Mitechilaso Ve’Ad Sofo--he is
Achashveirosh--evil from the beginning until the end. Haman, then, could
find no better partner to annihilate the Jews than him--for their
annihilation was a great desire of his as well. It is very telling that
even after the Neis Purim occurred, he still did not allow the rebuilding of
the Bais HaMikdash for as long as he was king! Yet, with all of his hatred
for us, Hashem caused him to move his kingdom’s capital to Shushan, the
place of the Jews, so that Mordechai would not have to burden himself in
traveling any distance to his palace. With this in mind, let us take the
time to study and appreciate the depth of every nuance and detail in the
Megillah--and make many new discoveries this year. We most certainly invite
you to share your discoveries and original thoughts with us!
-------------------------------------------
A MEGILLAH NOTE--Q & A:
The following Q &
A--as has been provided to us in the past by Rabbi Reuvain Mendlowitz,
Shlita, author of Inside Sta”m--An Insider Reveals The Answers To
All The Questions You Should Ask When Purchasing Or Maintaining Tefillin,
Mezuzos, Megillos, Sifrei Torah And Nevi’im.
Question
I recently saw a stunning,
illustrated megillah selling for a small fortune. I was thinking about
saving up to buy it, and thereby enhance my fulfillment of Mitzvas
Megillah. My chavrusa claims that while it may be a nice piece of
Judaica, in terms of Mitzvas Megillah, not only is it not a
beautification, it is a disgrace. I am rather offended by his position.
Could he possibly be correct?
Answer
Actually, he is
correct. While disgrace may be a strong term, the rationale behind it
is accurate. Megillas Esther is part of Kisvei HaKodesh (The
Holy Writings), one of the twenty-four books of Tanach. The correct way of
beautifying Kisvei HaKodesh is by fulfilling all the halachic
requirements mandated by Chazal. To add to the physical megillah, however,
is a kind of statement that the scroll lacks intrinsic beauty. This is quite
an insult to the mitzvah since in fact, there is nothing more beautiful than
a mehudar STA”M item. There is no need for us to add to what HaShem
and Chazal find intrinsically beautiful.
Regarding the phenomenon of
illustrated Megillos, Rav Elyashiv Zt”l was wont to say “ain ruach
chachmim nocheh haimenu”, or loosely translated “the chachamim are not
pleased with him”.
An external adornment
such as a silver case is indeed befitting. It communicates: “I value my
beautiful megillah [or mezuzah] so much that I want to store it in an
appropriately beautiful case.”
-------------------------------------------
THE TREE OF HAMAN:
HaRav Shimon Schwab, Z’tl (Rav Schwalb on Prayer, Artscroll, p.526) poses a
“I should have thought of that” question: Why does the Megillah in some
detail, and why do Chazal subsequently in Ahl HaNissim, spend the
time and effort to describe that Haman was hung on a tree, and that his 10
sons were hung on the tree almost a year later. Why do we have to remind
ourselves of this every year in the Megillah and in the Ahl Hanissim
so many times? Indeed, Rav Schwab points out—even in the Maoz Tzur of
Chanukah we sing “Rov Bonov Vekinyanav Al Hoetz Tolisa—Haman and a
good number of his sons were hung on the tree.” What special significance
does the tree have to this very special day?
Rav Schwab answers: Chazal (Chullin
139B) teach that Haman is alluded to in the Torah with the Eitz HaDaas—Hashem
asks Adam: “Hamin Hoetz Asher…--Did you eat of the tree which I
commanded you not to eat?” What is the relationship of Haman to the Eitz
HaDaas--is it merely a play on words of Haman and Hamin?
Obviously not. There is a great lesson here. Haman intended to commit the
most heinous crime imaginable--the genocide of an entire people. The aveirah
of Adam and Chava at first blush seems to be of no comparison whatsoever.
After all, they wanted to grow spiritually--to know the difference between
Tov and Ra (Beraishis 3:5)--it was an Aveira for them to eat only because
Hashem did not want them to grow in this way at this time. They succumbed to
the appeal which the fruit had to their senses--albeit a supernal and lofty
one. As Rav Schwab teaches: “This was the most exalted form of an aveirah
ever committed.” Nevertheless, the Megillah and Chazal teach that the worst
possible aveirah known to man--genocide--had its origins in the sublime and
elevated desire of Adam and Chava. This is the route of aveira, this is the
path of the Yetzer Hara. Those ‘worst kind’ of aveiros start somewhere--they
have their origin in the slightest of aveiros. Haman’s aveira only
began…because of the Hamin that engendered it.
So, when we read and refer
to--and even pray about --the Tree of Haman this Purim, let us make sure
that we glean its great lesson. We will tell the Yetzer Hara--”No, I am not
going to begin—the one word of Lashon Hara, the one bite of questionable
food, picking up the muktza item because there ‘must be some heter’, not
paying the worker what he asks because you want to teach him a lesson… all
of the good intentions, all of the ‘practically no aveira’ of what you may
be thinking, doing or saying—remember that 50 Amos high tree-- look up to
its top—and to the ‘little’ sapling! We will not follow Haman--we will
follow Mordechai!
-------------------------------------------
IMAGINE THE Z’CHUSIM:
The z’chusim which can be created by the thousands of us getting together to
have dedicated Kavannah--in the first Bracha of Shemone Esrei
over the week are literally astounding. Davening properly, that is, having
Kavannah for the simple translation of the words of the first
Bracha, which we are all capable of doing with little effort, can convert a
lackluster Shemone Esrei into a true prayer to Hashem. The results will
B’EH be Refuos and Yeshuos for K’lal Yisrael.
IMPLEMENTATION--BE’H STARTING TODAY:
It is recommended that you B’EH make a daily notation in the calendar
provided below.
|
Monday
8 Adar
□Mincha
□Maariv |
Tuesday
9 Adar
□Shacharis
□Mincha
□Maariv |
Wednesday
10 Adar
□Shacharis
□Mincha
□Maariv |
Thursday
11 Adar
□Shacharis
□Mincha
□Maariv |
Friday
12 Adar
□Shacharis
□Mincha
□ Maariv |
Shabbos
13 Adar
□Shacharis
□Musaf
□Mincha
□Maariv
|
Sunday
PURIM
14 Adar
□Shacharis
□Mincha
□Maariv |
Monday
SHUSHAN PURIM
15 Adar
□Shacharis
□Mincha
□Maariv
|
|
THE REST IS UP TO YOU! PLEASE CONTINUE! |
==================================
5 Adar
THE
EVOLVING DIGITAL CHALLENGE:
We
have been quoting the valuable book The Evolving Digital Challenge,
by Rabbi Nechemiah Gottlieb, Shlita. Readers have asked how it can be
obtained. They may contact TAG at 732-730-1824, or email
digitalchallenge@taghelpline.org.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
AN
IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER!
As Purim approaches, one may feel that he has to be a little bit tighter
with Tzedaka until Purim comes, and may also feel uneasy about all of the
contributions on Purim as well. There is a story related about R’ Itzele
Petteburger, Z’tl, who reached into his pocket and gave a stranger Tzedaka.
After the person left, R’ Itzele remarked that he felt no difficulty, no
hold-back, with his act of giving--so the Tzedaka in that case was probably
not a true one. The Yetzer Hara would only bring about hesitation and
resistance when the Mitzvah was real--otherwise, he will let it go by with
pleasure. So, if you are approached for Tzedaka within the next ten
days--remember for the large part where your inner resistance is coming
from. Similarly, when giving Matanos Le’Evyonim--overcome the challenge and
remember to give each and every person wisely--and B’Sever Panim Yafos!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
WE
CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
A.
Many individually wrapped candies, lollipops, ices, and other Shabbos Party
type treats have lettering and/or designs just at the spots that you would
open them to take out the candy or treat. This constitutes an Issur
DeRabbanan of Mochek (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chayim 340; Mishna Berurah, seif
katan 17). We note that this problem is true of ‘heimishe’ products as well,
as the manufacturers do not assume that you or your children will
necessarily be opening these items on Shabbos. Perhaps we should add to the
list of Erev Shabbos things to do-- checking packaging of this kind!
B.
According to the Sefer HaShabbos BeTifarta by HaRav Avrohom Adas,
Shlita, reattaching a broomstick back to a broom either by screwing it back
in, or by pushing it with force back into place, constitutes an Issur
D’Oraysa of Boneh. He likewise rules that one may not return a belt buckle
to a belt on Shabbos.
C.
Several important Borer points from the Sefer “Pnei Shabbos--Halachos
HaSchichos” by HaRav Yosef Glick, Shlita of Yerushalayim, which
provides the answers to many common Shabbos Shailos: (i) One may not pour
off the liquid from cholent unless he leaves some amount of liquid in the
cholent, or eats a little bit of the liquid that he poured off—so that he is
selecting the Ochel (that which he now wants) from the Pesoles (that which
he does not now want) for immediate use; (ii) When clearing the table, one
should make sure that the dirty plates are somewhat separated from the
plates with remaining food on them that he wants to put away, in order to
avoid the potential borer of separating plates mixed together -- removing
dirty plates from the table to discard their contents while removing plates
with food to store their contents. Likewise, there should be distance kept
on kitchen counters between the dirty plates and plates with items to be
discarded, and the remaining clean plates, or items to be stored, in order
to avoid borer issues of selecting Pesoles from Ochel—or even Ochel from
Pesoles for non-immediate use; (iii) One should not remove noodles from
chicken noodle soup simply because he does not want to eat them (and vice
versa, one may not pour out the chicken soup in order to eat the noodles
only), as this constitutes borer-- selecting the Pesoles from the Ochel;
(iv) One should not remove the frosting or cream layer from a cake, unless
he also removes some of the cake along with it, or leaves some of the cream
on the cake; (v) If one took a fruit out of a bowl to eat, and then did not
like the way it looked, HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl, writes that it
may be best to put it back into the same bowl and not somewhere else, so it
does not appear as borer; (vi) One is permitted to take the peel off fruits
and vegetables immediately prior to consumption--even if the outer layer is
inedible (such as a banana peel), because this is deemed to be its ‘derech
achila.’ If a peel is otherwise commonly eaten, such as an apple peel, there
is a Machlokes HaPoskim as to whether one can peel the apple for
non-immediate consumption. HaRav Moshe Feinstein, Z’tl, forbids it; (vii)
If a candy wrapper is stuck to the candy, one should only remove the candy
close to its consumption, as the wrapper would then be treated as the peel
of a fruit;(viii)If one has different flavors of soda in the pantry mixed up
together, and wants to select a few flavors to put into the refrigerator for
the Shabbos Seudah in a few hours, there is an issue of borer, as he is
selecting for non-immediate use. Accordingly, one should keep the same
flavors grouped together so that he is not selecting one flavor from
another, or, in the alternative, not be selective about the soda he is
taking but simply picking up two or three bottles of whatever may come to
his hand. Another alternative may be to immediately drink a little of the
soda one selects before putting it in the refrigerator, so that he is
selecting the soda for immediate use; (ix) One should avoid peeling corn off
the cob unless it is close to the meal (even then there may be a separate
issue of Dush--although one may eat corn directly from the cob; as an aside,
one should ask his Posek whether he should eat corn on the cob or whether
there is an issue of tola’im with respect to it); (x) There are
various opinions as to how close to the Seudah one is permitted to peel
vegetables, set the table, and perform other Ochel Mitoch Pesoles
activities. One should definitely not rely upon his own ‘common sense’ in
this area, which could involve several Issurei D’Oraysa within the
preparation of one Seudah. Instead, one should most definitely consult
with his Rav or Posek in any case of doubt. If one never has any issues
or doubts in this delicate area--than he is either being extra-specially
superbly careful-- or he should immediately commence the study or review of
the Halachos of borer, to help himself and others properly observe Shabbos
Kodesh!
--------------------------------------------------------
POINTS
AND POINTERS ON THIS WEEK’S PARASHA--PARASHAS TERUMAH:
A. This week, we are introduced for the first time to the Mishkan, which we
sometimes view as only a “temporary” structure (actually used for over 400
years). Chazal, however, teach us that the Torah emphasizes that the
Mishkan was made from “Atzai Shitim Omdim”--”standing” Shitim
wood--in order for us to know that the Mishkan will “stand” forever. The
question we pose is--why is this so? After all, once the first Bais
HaMikdash was built, were there not many more miracles and much more glory
to Hashem there, being the holiest place in the world? Why must the Mishkan
“stand”--remain with us forever? We look forward to your thoughts.
B. As
we see in tomorrow’s Parasha, the Aron consisted of solid wood, plated
inside and outside with gold. In spite of the fact that the Aron was plated
with gold much more valuable than the wood it covered, the Aron is
nevertheless referred to in the Torah as the “Aron Atzei Shitim--the
acacia wood Aron”. Why is it that the Aron is described as wooden--and not
as a more valuable and respected golden Aron? HaRav Shimshon Dovid Pincus,
Z’tl, answers that, in fact, wood more aptly describes the Aron because wood
is something that grows and that regenerates. Indeed, even if one cuts down
a tree to the ground, its roots are left and a new tree can sprout forth.
Gold may be valuable in this world, but it has no inherent capacity to live
or grow. Our Torah is much more aptly described with wood for “Etz Chaim
He--it is a living tree”--it enables one--even one who was down and
out--to reinvigorate himself and renew his life. Rav Pincus notes that this
is the special nature of the month of Adar, and eventually of Purim, as
well. It is a time of Hischadshus--of a new lease on life both
physically and spiritually. It is no wonder then, that after experiencing
the miracles of Purim, our people’s immediate reaction was “Kimu V’kiblu”--a
rededication and revival to Torah commitment.
C.
Chazal teach that one who gives money to a poor person is misboreich
with six brachos, while one who additionally gives him words of
encouragement and support is blessed with eleven brachos by Hashem. A
wonderful explanation of the concept is presented in the Sefer MiShulchan
Gavoha, on this week’s Parasha: There is a commodity more precious to a
human being than even money--it is his time. When a person takes the
time to encourage another, he is giving of himself something more precious
than gold. At a Hakhel Yarchei Kallah, Rabbi Dov Brezak, Shlita, once
noted that he passed a man whom he had not seen in a while on the street.
In passing, he asked him how everything was. As they were walking by each
other the man responded: “Lo BeSeder--things are not well.” Rabbi
Brezak heard these words as he was already past the person and had a quick
debate in his mind. He was in a rush, in fact an absolute rush, to get to a
store that was going to close. The matter was urgent for him. But, how
could he leave a man who just said that things were not well--and now 20 or
30 meters behind him?! His Yetzer HaTov got the best of him, he ran
back towards the distraught person, and gave him words of care and Chizuk
for a few moments. A few days later the man called him to express his
Hakaras HaTov to Rabbi Brezak for stopping to talk with him. Because of the
desperateness of the situation at the time, the man was actually
contemplating suicide--and Rabbi Brezak’s thoughtfulness and words--reversed
his thinking and frame of mind! This is literally Chaim BeYad HaLashon--and
we are all capable of it!
D.
The Shach writes that it is possible that on every utensil made in the Bais
HaMikdash, a separate Bracha was made of “Asher Kideshanu BeMitzvosav
Vetzivanu Al Asiyas Kli Ploni” so that kedusha would come on to the Kli
not only through its making-but also through the dibbur of the Bracha!
Accordingly, we once again remind our readers that every time we say the
words “Asher Kideshanu BeMitzvosav Vetzivanu...” we are bringing
kedusha on to the Mitzvah we are performing or upon the item on which we are
performing the mitzvah.
E. We
learn that those who were Nedivei Lev--givers from the heart--were
able to accomplish an incredible task--the building of a house and its
furnishings the likes of which were never built before--and which is in fact
hidden away to this very day and forever thereafter. The Sefer Orchos
Tzaddikim teaches us that there is something even more special than a
Nadiv, a giver--it is a Nadiv HaShalem--a complete giver. He
writes that a Nadiv HaShalem is one who gives--whether large or small
amounts before being asked to do so. By doing this, he performs the
act of giving not out of coercion or embarrassment, not to be ‘left alone’,
and not even out of rethinking or reconsideration--but purely because he is
a giver. It may take a little time to get used to--but if one could
sway his charitable donations, even if in only small amounts, in this
direction--he will actually move towards Shleimus in the act of
giving. The Torah teaches us the value of the Nedivei Lev...let’s
see if we can make this attribute a part of ourselves in the most
complete way possible!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
NOT
HIDDEN AWAY IN A TOWER:
Why was the Torah put into an Aron and then into the Kodesh HaKodoshim
seemingly isolated from the people? When we posed this question in the past,
we received the following excellent responses from readers:
A.
“If the Torah would just be “there” for us, it wouldn’t make us want it at
all. One must view and seek out the Torah just as one would a hidden
treasure in order to properly appreciate how invaluable it is to our
lives”. Hakhel Note: We can apply this lesson daily by treating our
Maggidei Shiur and Seforim with an added level of appreciation, care and
respect--for they are very much helping us to reach an essential part of our
life--the ‘VeSein Chelkeinu BeSoresecha’--uncovering and revealing
the Torah for us, so that we can attain our life’s potential and portion in
Torah knowledge and study. One should very much try to improve his
hakara, his recognition and affection to those who help him take the
Torah out of the Aron and imbibe Hashem’s Wisdom into his being daily-and
everlastingly!
B.
“The Declaration of Independence is kept under lock and key in a
pneumatically sealed chamber with atmospheric conditions perfect for its
preservation, and back in the times when it was written, copies were
disseminated among the states for their publicizing the Declaration.
Lehavdil, we need to have one copy of the Torah that is sacrosanct as a
proof that over all of these millennia, not a dot has been changed in the
Torah. We will need this proof one day when the nations that surround us
make the final accusations, and the original scroll will appear and we will
be able to compare that the scrolls that we read in Shul today are exact
copies of the original scrolls written by Moshe Rabbeinu and dictated by
Hashem Yisborach. And since that will be Y’may Mashiach, Am Yisrael--and
the very same Torah will continue to live L’olam Va’ed!”
Hakhel
Note: We look forward to your responses as well!
---------------------------------------------------------------------
MIKDASH ME’AT:
At
this moment in our lives, although we may not have the ultimate Mishkan or
Bais HaMikdash, we do have our Bais Haknesses and Bais HaMidrash, as our
Mikdashei Me’at. According to many Rishonim, the Mitzvas Asei
MiD’oraysah of Mikdoshi Tira’u applies to our Mikdashei Me’at
as well. We provide below several points and pointers from Hilchos Bais
HaKnesses (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 150-153), as excerpted from the
Dirshu Edition of the Mishna Berurah:
A. It
is a great Mitzvah to donate Sefarim to a Shul or Bais Midrash for study.
The Chasam Sofer (Yoreh De’ah 244) writes that one fulfills the words of “Oseh
Tzedaka Bechol Ais--doing an act of righteousness at all times” by doing
so.
B. The
Shulchan Aruch (151:1) itself rules that simply sitting in our Mikdash
Me’at is a Mitzvah, as Dovid Hamelech writes: “Ashrei Yoshvei
Veisecha”.
C.
Chazal teach that if a person embarrasses another in front of a Talmid
Chochom, then he is an apikores and does not have a chelek in Olam Haba.
All the more so, writes the Mishna Berurah, would this apply to one who
disgraces his friend in front of the Sefer Torah and the Kavod Hashechina--in
Shul. (151: Mishna Berurah, seif katan 2)
D. One
should not enter a Mikdash Me’at with a knife or similar object,
because the Torah lengthens a person’s days, and a knife shortens a person’s
days in this world. (151: Mishna Berurah, seif katan 22, Dirshu Note 20)
E. It
is inappropriate of antennas to be placed on top of a Shul, and if it was
done against the will of those who daven there, they should not take rent or
a fee for the antenna--for it is forbidden to make profit from the bizayon
of a Shul. (Shevet HaLevi, quoted in Dirshu Note 26)
F. It
may be permissible to sell a Sefer Torah in order for a Shul to acquire
Gemaros and Halacha Sefarim--because this may be considered putting one’s
study into practice.
G. One
fulfills a Mitzvah if he enters and leaves a Shul by different entranceways;
this is based upon the pasuk relating to the Bais HaMikdash: “HaBa’ah
Derech Sha’ar Tzafon LeHishtachavos Yetzeih Derech Sha’ar Negev” (Mishna
Berurah, ibid., seif katan 21). The Mishna Berurah explains that this
demonstrates your chavivus to the Bais HaKnesses.
Hakhel
Note: To get a better feeling of the awe and empowerment we should feel upon
entering a Shul, we provide some of the closing words of HaRav Moshe
Cordevero, Z’tl, to the Sefer Tomer Devora:
“As
one enters the Bais Knesses, he should recite the verse “V’Ani B’Rov
Chasdecha…--and I, through Your abundant kindness, come into Your house;
I bow toward Your holy sanctuary in awe of You” (Tehillim 5:8). With this,
one binds himself to the three Avos, as “Your abundant kindness” corresponds
to Avrohom, “I bow toward Your holy sanctuary” corresponds to Yitzchok, and
“In awe of You” corresponds to Yaakov. His prayer will then be in a
propitious time, for the outflow of His Compassion will be drawn downwards
towards him.”
During
the upcoming weeks, as we learn more and more about the holy Mishkan, let us
make a special effort to have the proper regard, respect and appreciation
for the sanctuaries of Hashem that are in our midst!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
BUILDING AN ARON:
One
last thought: We all try to improve our learning, for, after all, “VeTalmud
Torah KeNeged Kulam--Torah study is equivalent to them all.” As we
learn of the Aron’s construction in this week’s Parasha, we realize that we
must also build ourselves to house the Torah within us. Every individual
knows himself best, and can make real progress and strides in his own way.
However, one area which may be particularly frustrating to many in their
Torah growth is their inability to remember where they learned something--e.g.,
where exactly it is in Shulchan Aruch or the Gemara, which commentary said
it, or what the particular language may be. If a person would take but
one item a day that he has learned that day, write down its
source, and try to commit the item and its source to memory whether through
memory association techniques or otherwise (it will obviously require
review), than over the course of a year--he will know more than 350
sources! Each and every day has so much potential inherent within it--if we
merely ‘tap’ on it we can accomplish so much over a month, a year, a
decade...120 years!
==================================
4 Adar
LAST CALL!
1.
If you start today learning Mishnayos Megillah and learn just three
Mishnayos a day (after Shacharis, Maariv, etc.), you will complete all of
the Mishnayos in the Mesechta on Purim, and if you then continue to
learn three (3) mishnayos per day of Mishnayos Pesachim starting on Purim
(it is a mitzvah to begin learning Hilchos Pesach on Purim, as brought in
the Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 429; Mishna Berurah seif katan 2), you
will complete Mishnayos Pesachim for Pesach!
2.
If you start today, and learn one perek of Megillas Esther a day, you will
have reviewed the Megillah in time for its laining on Leil Purim.
Remember--the Torah Jew places special emphasis not only on the Mitzvah--but
on the Hachana --the preparation for the Mitzvah!
--------------------------------------------
MEGILLAH READING--TODAY! The
Chovos HeLevavos teaches us: “Ki HaYamim Megillos Kisvu Bahem
Mah Shetachpetzu Sheyizacher Lachem--Everyone’s days are like
Megillos--write in them what you wish to be remembered for.” (Sha’ar
Cheshbon HaNefesh, Chapter 3).
-------------------------------------------
MAKE SURE THAT YOUR SHUL
JOINS YESHIVAS MORDECHAI HATZADDIK THIS PURIM! Yeshivas Mordechai
Hatzaddik, in special session for one hour of Torah study in
Shul on Purim day, has hundreds of branches worldwide, with tens of
thousands participating. If your Shul does not yet participate in this
noble project (Torah study on such a busy day--what a Zechus!), all
it takes is some simple signs as to the time, several nice raffle prizes,
and perhaps a door prize for each child participating. For further
information on a discounted door prize available, please contact
avotusa@kewnet.com.,
and for signs or raffle ticket forms, please respond to this Bulletin
-------------------------------------------
PURIM COSTUME ALERT:
The
Luach Davar B’Ito reminds all that Purim costumes (especially hats from
Eastern Europe) may contain shatnez, and accordingly should be checked in
advance of Purim to make sure that the costume is usable. The Luach
also strongly advises against using costumes which can scare others. It
also suggests that the child ‘tries the costume on’ in front of a parent so
that it fits, is clean and no buttons are missing…to avoid any last minute
consternation or disappointment. Hakhel Note: We had previously pointed out
that a Halachic issue is raised as to whether one may daven in a Purim
costume. The Dirshu Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 91, Note 17)
brings a Teshuvah from the Shevet HaLevi (10:18) in which the Shevet
HaLevi rules that if a Chossid is dressed as a misnagid, or vice
versa, he may daven in the costume, provided that he is serious and his body
is covered. Although the Dirshu Note appears to read this ruling more
expansively, one should consult with his Rav or Posek with respect to other
costumes.
-------------------------------------------
IT IS NOT IRONIC!:
When one entered the Kodesh, the Shulchan, or the table with the Lechem
HaPanim on it was on the right and the Menorah was on the
left. The Shulchan, of course, symbolizes prosperity and blessing in
this world while the Menorah represents the light of Torah and its study.
We would have better understood it if the Menorah was to the right
and the Shulchan to the left. After all, we attribute greater
Chashivus to the right, and, moreover the right was north--which was the
direction in which the Kadshei Kadshim--the most holy of Karbanos were
brought. In order to resolve this paradox, some commentaries explain that
there is a great difference between our approach to attaining the ‘Shulchan’
and our approach to attaining the ‘Menorah’ in life. What do we mean?
Chazal (Pesachim 50B) teach that Torah can first be studied She’lo Lishmah--not
for its own sake, and that will eventually lead to Lishmah. As Chazal
especially express it: “Mitoch She’lo Lishmah Bah Lishmah.” With this, we
can understand why we first begin teaching young children with candies and
treats, prizes and more prizes. As a person grows, however, he realizes
that it is the Torah itself which is the eternal treat and the everlasting
prize. When it comes to the Shulchan, however, there is no room for She’lo
Lishmah. We cannot focus upon earthly passions, desires, goals, and
attainments as an end in itself--even with the intent of eventually making
one’s life more noble and elevated. One should not ever place the emphasis
on satisfaction of Olam Hazeh needs as an end in and of itself. It is for
this reason that the Shulchan must be on the right--for it must always be in
the ‘Lishmah mode.’ What a great lesson! Many times throughout the day
when one finds the challenge arise as to a particular indulgence,
gratification or desire, he should remember that the Menorah is to the left…
but that the Shulchan always remains to the right!
-------------------------------------------
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS:
To help continue to arouse the spirit of
Mishenichnas Adar Marbin B’Simcha, we provide the following questions
relating to the events of Megillas Esther, which have been culled from the
Sefer Sifsei Chachomim, introduction to Mesechta Megillah, and other
sources:
1. QUESTION: What are the ten significant kingdoms that span all of
human history?
ANSWER:
(i) Hashem when He created the world, and was recognized by all; (ii)
Nimrod, when he rebelled before Hashem in front of the world; (iii) Paroh
Melech Mitzrayim; (iv) the kingdom of Ahm Yisrael in Eretz Yisrael; (v)
Nevuchadnezzar, king of Baval; (vi) Achashveirosh; (vii) Yavan; (viii) Rome;
(ix) Moshiach; and (x) when Hashem once again is recognized by all as Ruler
of the world, as the Navi teaches: “VeHaya Hashem LeMelech Ahl Kol
Ha’aretz”.
2. QUESTION: We know that the Gematria of Boruch Mordechai and Arur
Haman are the same. To what is the Gematria of Arurah Zeresh equivalent?
ANSWER:
Esther Livracha (Steipeler Gaon).
3.
QUESTION: The word Purim is written five times in the Megillah--twice
with a Vav and three times without a Vav--why?
ANSWER:
The two times with a Vav (i.e., with the word complete) allude to the 14th
and 15th of Adar, each of which are celebrated as Purim in all
respects, only depending upon whether the city was originally walled or not.
The three times Purim is written without a Vav represents the 11th,
12th and 13th of Adar, days upon which in certain
circumstances in the past the Megillah could have been read (and Matanos
L’Evyonim given)--but Simchas Purim was in any event even in these
circumstances celebrated on the 14th(Cheishek Shlomo).
Hakhel Note: Oh, how much we can learn from the presence or absence of even
one letter in the Megillah!
4.
QUESTION: Can you name at least three Nevi’im--other than Mordechai and
Esther--that lived at the time that the miracle of Purim took place?
ANSWER:
Baruch
Ben Neryah, Sraya Ben Machsaya, Daniel, Chagai, Zechariah and Malachi. (Rashi
to Megillah 15A)
5. QUESTION: What was the name of Haman’s mother?
ANSWER:
Her name was Amasla’i (Bas Urvasi). Chazal (Baba Basra 91A) teach that the
name of Avrohom Avinu’s mother was also Amasla’i (Bas Karnevo). One
suggested reason for the two mothers having the same name is that whenever
Haman Bas Amasla’i is mentioned, it will be me’orer the zechus of Avrohom
Avinu--just as when we mention the city of Chevron, we are me’orer the
zechus Avos (see Yoma 28B).
==================================
3 Adar
QUOTABLE
QUOTE:
“All
the beneficial features of technology are window dressings intended to give
the Yetzer Hara a credible way to entice us to buy into the digital culture.
If we are to survive this test, our first step is to recognize the true
essence of digital technology and the culture it is creating for what they
are.” [Excerpted from The
Evolving Digital Challenge by Rabbi Nechemiah Gottlieb, Shlita].
--------------------------------------------
REMINDER--START TODAY!
I.
If you start learning Mishnayos Megillah TODAY and learn just
three Mishnayos a day (after Maariv, with your son, etc.), you will complete
the entire Mesechta on Purim, and if you then continue to learn Mishnayos
Pesachim starting on Purim (it is a mitzvah to begin learning Hilchos Pesach
on Purim (as brought in the Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 429; Mishna Berurah
seif katan 2), you will complete Mishnayos Pesachim before Pesach!
II.
If you start today, and learn one perek of Megillas Esther a day, you will
have reviewed the Megillah in time for its laining on Leil Purim.
Remember--the Torah Jew places special emphasis not only on the Mitzvah--but
on the Hachana --the preparation for the Mitzvah!
------------------------------------------------
MAY IT
BE IN OUR DAYS AS WELL!
The Luach Davar B’ito records from Sefer Ezra (6:14-18) that K’lal
Yisrael, led by Chagai and Zecharia, completed and celebrated the successful
construction of the Bayis Sheini. The Luach suggests that one read these
Pesukim in Ezra. May we re-live these events--through the completion of
Bayis Sheini, speedily and in our days! We are certainly in a mesugal
period--as this is also the month of Geulah Purim, and as the well-known
Chazal teach us when there are two Adars, we celebrate Purim in Adar Sheini
so that we place the Geulah of Mitzrayim in close proximity with the Geulas
Purim (and hopefully the Geulah Sheleimah this month!).
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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS:
To help continue to arouse the spirit of Mishenichnas Adar Marbin
B’Simcha, we provide the following questions (this time--and answers!)
relating to the events of Megillas Esther, which have been culled from the
Sefer Sifsei Chachomim, introduction to Mesechta Megillah:
1. QUESTION: Why is the Megillah called Megillas Esther--and not
Megillas Mordechai?
ANSWER:
There are several answers given.
A. Mordechai was on the Anshei Knesses HaGedolah that approved the Megillahs
codification as one of the Sifrei Tanach. Referring to the Megillah as
Megillas Mordechai could cause some to claim that Mordechai endorsed it
because of his own honor, or as a remembrance as to how the king raised his
position and accorded him great honor and wealth. Indeed, the Pasuk found in
the Megillah (9:29) records “Vatichtov Esther HaMalka…U’Mordechai
HaYehudi--mentioning Esther’s name first.”
B. Esther acted with greater Mesiras Nefesh, as she stated (Esther 4:16): “V’cha’asher
Avaditi Avoditi.” Rashi (Shemos 37:1) provides a similar comment on the
Pasuk: “Vaya’as Betzalel Es Ha’aron--Betzalel made the Mishkan”.
Because of he did more than others, it was called by his name.
C. The ikar hanes occurred through her (see Megillah 4A Tosfos d’h
she’af).
D. Esther was the one who requested of the Chachomim: ‘Kisvuni L’Doros--write
down my story for future generations.’ (Megillah 7A).
E. Even though Esther was a Yesoma and raised by others--nevertheless a
Yeshua Gedolah for all of K’lal Yisrael came through her. This should
provide a nechama to all those who are downtrodden to strengthen their
bitachon in Yeshuas Hashem.
F. To remind us that because Esther reported what Bigsan and Seresh intended
to do in the name of Mordechai she brought Geulah to the world--and that we
too can bring Geulah to the world, by fulfilling Chazal’s teaching (Avos
6:6): “Kol Ha’omer Davar B’sheim Amro Meivi Geulah L’Olam”!
2. QUESTION: Are there any cities in Chutz La’aretz that could have
possibly been walled from the times of Yehoshua Bin Nun?
ANSWER:
Possibly, Prague, Czechoslovakia and Temesvar, Romania--the Shela HaKadosh
writes that an individual should be machmir on himself and read the Megillah
in these cities at night and in the day without a bracha on the 15th
of Adar as well.
3. QUESTION: How much time passed between Vashti being put to death
and Esther becoming queen?
ANSWER:
4 years--for Vashti was killed in the 3rd year of Achashveirosh’s
reign and Esther became queen in the 7th year of his reign.
4. QUESTION: How many generations were there from Mordechai back to
Yaakov Avinu?
ANSWER:
40 (see Targum Sheini to Esther 7:6 for a listing of Mordechai’s ancestry
generation by generation)
5. QUESTION: How many years had Mordechai been in Galus before the
Nes of Purim happened?
ANSWER:
Mordechai went into Galus with Yechanya the king of Yehuda in the year 3328.
The Nes of Purim occurred in the year 3405. This means that Mordechai had
been in galus for 77 years prior to the Nes of Purim!
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EXPANDING THE ADAR GROUP:
Once, after resolving a difficulty in a Rambam, Rebbi Yisroel Salanter,
Z’tl fainted. “If I have such talent,” Rebbi Yisroel explained upon coming
to, “I have a tremendous responsibility,” the Heavenly Court will demand of
me: “Why didn’t you get the whole world to do Teshuva?”
Hakhel Note One: We all have tremendous Kochos, more than we know. With
these Kochos comes responsibilities, not only to ourselves but to others.
This year, Purim will be celebrated on a Sunday, which means that there is a
greater responsibility to somehow and in some way involve those who you know
who are not yet Torah observant in the meaning and importance of the day.
May we suggest that you go to the www.kiruv.com website and review the great
possibilities that you have of bringing a brother closer to Torah. Even if
you simply refer an uneducated acquaintance to some inspirational websites,
you will have accomplished a great deal. These include: ohr.edu, aish.com,
simpletoremember.com, beingjewish.com, jewishresourcecard.com. You don’t
have to faint--and Hatzlacha Rabba!
Hakhel Note Two: The Maharal explains that the reason Haman was so happy
that the month in which he would kill the Jews came up as Adar was because
it was the last month of the year, thus symbolizing that it was the month
which would c’v be the end of Klal Yisrael’s existence. He was so
mistaken, because Adar as the last month, symbolized our existence beyond
that of all of the other nations--we would continue and be last! We each
can do our part in not only keeping ourselves part of those that are ‘last,’
but bringing our neighbors, friends, co-workers, etc. into the great ‘Adar
Group’ as well!
---------------------------------------------------
PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL:
This time of year represents and reminds us of the special level of
Hashgacha that Hashem graces us with. Sometimes it is clear to see, and
sometimes we may not even realize how we were lead in a particular direction
or on a specific path. Indeed, some commentaries to Tehillim 117 explain
that the reason we exclaim: “Halelu Es Hashem Kol Goyim, Shabechuhu Kol
HaUmim--praise Hashem all nations, praise Him all nationalities” is
because we do not even know the nature or extent of the designs and schemes
against us from which we were saved--and only they do. On the other hand,
with the Nes of Purim, it was clear for all to see Hashem’s tremendous
‘behind-the-scenes’ actions for many years--and that but for the great
Hashgacha Pratis we would have been annihilated--as had actually happened to
scores of nations previously in existence. Indeed, the term “Megillas
Esther” expressly affirms the dual nature of our Hashgacha--sometimes it is
‘Megillah,’ meaning thoroughly revealed--and sometimes it is ‘Esther,’
meaning wholly hidden. It would certainly be an appropriate Avodah at this
time of year to work on experiencing and appreciating the Hashgacha Pratis
in each one of our personal lives. “Why did I feel that I was coming down
with a cold and then not get it?” “Why did my cell phone break today?”
“How did I get involved in redting this Shidduch?” “Why did I learn this
today--is there some way in which I should be applying it?”... Although one
cannot go through an entire day noting this and noting that, it most
certainly behooves us during the month of Adar to write down at least
one Hashgacha Pratis incident of the day which you recognized as a clear
indication of Hashem’s hand in your life. It is no secret, and we have
noted here before, that once a person recognizes the tremendous Hashgacha to
which he is subject, the more Simcha he will feel in his closeness to Hashem.
Your own personal Adar 5777 Hashgacha Pratis Calendar--a marvelous goal and
special achievement for what we hope will be a Simcha-filled month!
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