The majority of our Parsha speaks of a spiritually impure blotch called Tzoraas. This blotch is similar to a physical malady and the only ones authorized to determine the nature of these blemishes are the Kohanim ―priests. At times, even after a Kohain examined the blemish it remained unclear if it was the spiritual malady, …
Category: SHABBAT MESSAGES
Apr 04
This Is!
In our portion the Torah provides us with identifiable Kashruth signs for animals we are permitted to eat. Animals must have both true cloven hooves and ruminate their food. Fish must have both fins and scales. The Torah names each of the 28 species of fowl that are not kosher. When our leader Moshe was …
Mar 28
It Spreads!
Our entire Parsha speaks of various sacrificial offerings that were performed in the Temple. Although we have not merited the rebuilding of our Temple to personally experience and witness the awe-inspiring service of the Temple, there are many lessons that are derived from the procedures and happenings of the Temple that inject insight and inspiration …
Mar 21
Testimonial!
This Shabbos is called Shabbos Zachor. It gets its title from the Mitzvah that we fulfill by reading the portion of the Torah that tells us to Zachor – remember – the nation of Amalek, who hated G-d and the Jewish nation, and attacked us shortly after we were miraculously freed from Egypt. Every year …
Mar 14
Under Scrutiny!
After the Jews sinned with the golden calf they were commanded to construct a Temple for G-d. It took only two days for them to contribute the large amounts of gold, silver, copper, precious stones and other necessary materials! So great was the desire of the Jews to restore G-d’s presence amongst them. Betzalel and …
Mar 06
Unflinching!
After a traditional Jewish wedding, the celebration continues for the next seven days. For the next six nights family or friends host beautiful Sheva Brochos meals. Sheva Brochos means seven blessings because seven blessings are recited after Grace after Meals over a cup of wine in honor of the Choson and Kalah – bride and …
Feb 29
The 29th!
Our Parsha describes the unsettling incident when a portion of the Jews worshipped the golden calf. This occurred while our leader Moshe was in heaven for 40 days and nights being taught by G-d Himself the entirety of Torah with all its laws and details. Issues began when the Egyptian contingent that joined the Jews …
Feb 22
Following!
I have an early childhood recollection of walking from Shul with my father and older brother. To keep me entertained, my brother would tell me, “Look, it appears the moon is following you.” He said, “Watch, if you go to the left of me, or to the right of me, the moon will always follow …
Feb 15
Incalculable!
The Parsha of Teruma begins with the command for every Jew to contribute toward the construction of the Temple in the desert. In the course of this command the Torah mentions the word, “Teruma –contribution” three times. Our Sages tell us that each mention of Teruma refers to a specific donation. The first Teruma was …
Feb 08
First Down!
The Torah states the responsibilities and liabilities of custodians for items entrusted with them to safeguard. There are four basic types of custodians: Shomer Chinam – someone who takes responsibility to watch an item without payment. Shomer Sochar – someone who is paid to watch an item. A Shoel – a borrower, and a Sachir …