Hakhel Email Community Awareness Bulletin
JULY 2017 DAILY EMAIL ARCHIVE
8 Menachem Av
QUESTION:
A person should reduce the hana’ah (pleasure) he experiences on the
fast of Tisha B’Av as much as possible, true or false?
ANSWER:
The Rema (Orach Chaim 555:2) states that this is true.
Hakhel Note:
On the night of Tisha B’Av we are instructed to make our sleeping
arrangements somewhat more uncomfortable than usual: One who sleeps with
two pillows should sleep with one, one with one should perhaps not use the
pillow or even use a rock. One who sleeps on a bed can sleep on the floor.
In the words of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (and others): “HaKol Lefi Mah
Shehu Adam--all in accordance with who the person is.” It is easier for
us to claim about ourselves: “I am not holding there.”; “I am not capable
of this”; “Who am I?” or “I can’t do this.” You, however, are left to be
the judge, and far be it from you to shortchange yourself--for eternity. It
is very likely that you can, and even if you can’t--you certainly
can try. Most people will not study you, or be concerned with how you
personally slept on Leil Tisha B’Av, what you may have thought about, what
you resolve to do, or how you resolve to do it. All of this falls into the
realm of HaKol Lefi Mah Shehu Adam. It is up to you to stand up and
be counted--among those who will help bring the world to full and final
fruition!
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NOW, A QUESTION FOR YOU TO ANSWER:
How many different names or titles is the Beis Hamikdash given in Megillas
Eichah alone? What does that teach us?
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AN
APPRECIATION:
The
Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 554 seif katan 21) rules that on
the Ta’anis it is permissible for one to wash his hands [until his
knuckles] before Mincha “Dehavi Kemekabeil Pnei HaShechina U’cheTevilas
Mitzvah Shehitiru--for washing one’s hands before davening Mincha is
performed in order to greet the Shechina--and can be compared to tevila in a
mikva for the sake of a Mitzvah”. Oh, how we should appreciate Tefillas
Mincha--and most certainly wash our hands prior to davening--each and every
day of the year!
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IKAR AVODAH: One of our readers once met with HaRav Chaim Kanievksy, Shlita,
and at our request asked him what the Ikar Avodah of the fast of Tisha B’Av
is. He responded: “LeHagid Kinos”. This is HaRav Kanievsky’s
instruction--the sincerity, feeling and meaning that is put into our Kinos
is up to each and every one of us....
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QUESTION:
If the Moshiach comes on the fast of Tisha B’Av after Chatzos (midday) will
we continue to fast for the balance of the day?
ANSWER:
HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, in Sefer Derech Sicha, rules that we
will continue to fast if the Moshiach comes after midday because Teshuvah is
an element of the mourning that we are to feel and experience on Tisha B’Av.
Hakhel Note: Let us not forget to do Teshuvah on the fast of Tisha
B’Av--wouldn’t it be so remarkable and special if the Moshiach actually came
while you were doing Teshuvah?
Hakhel Note One:
The Dirshu Edition of the Mishna Berurah brings from the Brisker Rav, Z’tl,
that there are two aspects to Tisha B’Av--that of Ta’anis--and that of
Aveilus. The Shelah HaKadosh explains that the Aveilus over Churban
Yerushalayim is not to cry and bemoan the past as an end in and of
itself--but rather for us to be misbonein--to seriously reflect upon
the fact that the Churban resulted from our sins, and to be me’orer
ourselves to look carefully into our deeds, and to do Teshuvah (Shulchan
Aruch Orach Chaim 549: Dirshu Note 1)
Hakhel Note Two:
We
should especially recognize that this Wednesday, which is 10 Av, is two
months to Yom Kippur!
Hakhel Note Three:
A Rav
made the following point to us: Every generation has its own Yetzer Hara. In
the 1800’s--it may have been the Haskala which was ostensibly an
intellectual challenge to Torah Jews. Today, we should be embarrassed that
our challenges appear to be so childish--spending so much time playing
around with instruments--whether or not they are referred to as games--they
are so time consuming, so habit forming, and truthfully so not important for
eternity!
Hakhel Note Four:
The
Sefer Sha’arei Teshuvah (Sha’ar Shelishi:14) writes that just
as the reward for Torah study is greater than all of the other Mitzvos, so
is the punishment for one who is mevatel from Torah study greater
than all of the aveiros. This would mean that the sin of being mevatel
from Torah is even greater than that of Chilul Hashem! Each and every one of
us can do Teshuvah on Tisha B’Av itself in some way, on a going forward
basis, in the Mitzvah of Talmud Torah!
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SEVERAL BRIEF NOTES RELATING TO TISHA B’AV:
A. The Gedolim of the previous generation determined that Tisha B’Av
is the day to express our mourning over the Churban Europe. As we cry over
the Six Million Souls that were lost to us and all of the related harm,
injury and destruction to those who survived, we must remember not to get
lost in the numbers of hundreds of thousands and millions, but to remember
each Neshama, and multiply it by millions. We once again remind you of the
Holocaust Survivor who had approximately 13 uncles and brothers who were
murdered, and observed one Yahrzeit for them all on Asara BeTeves, since he
did not know the specific dates upon which each of them was killed (this is
a practice among many, picking a date that a ghetto was liquidated, or that
a transport arrived in a death camp). He approached HaRav Chaim Baruch
Faskowitz, Z’tl, on Asara BeTeves and asked if a Kel Moleh Rachamim could be
made for them. HaRav Faskowitz himself took the Sefer Torah and began to
recite the Kel Moleh. As the man was about to give him the list of all of
the names to be inserted in the one spot, HaRav Faskowitz stopped him and
advised him that he would making each one a separate Kel Moleh, for each of
them had his own life, and that there would be no wholesale prayers or
remembrances. About half way through the Kel Molehs, HaRav Faskowitz could
no longer bear reciting brother after brother, name after name, which
concluded with the same father--”Ben Noach”--and with the Sefer Torah in
hand, sat down crying, as his Kehilla cried with him. Hakhel Note: HaRav
Faskowitz’s Yahrzeit is on Tisha B’Av.
B. The Rambam rules that one could r’l be chayav kares
for entering certain areas of the Har HaBayis even in our day. This is
because “Kedusha Rishona Kidsha L’Sha’ata, V’Kidsha L’Osid Lavo”--the
holiness initially instilled there never left, notwithstanding the
destruction, devastation and defilement of the Makom HaMikdash. This is an
incredible teaching! The area of the Bais HaMikdash is holy now--and we are
missing it! To analogize (lehavdil), in a material sense, imagine if
someone was handed the title and keys to a brand new Lexus (with all
gadgetry) and was told that he could not drive it, or that the most
sumptuous steak and wine dinner was placed before him, with the limitation
that he could look at it as much as he pleased, but that he could not eat
it. This kind of reality is even more painful in the spiritual sense,
because unlike materialism which is fleeting, ruchniyus is, in fact,
eternal--and every moment that we miss is a missed opportunity of eternity.
C. With this understanding, we can appreciate an essential teaching
that we once again provide from the Temeshevarer Rav, HaRav Meir Schuck,
Z’tl. HaRav Schuck poses the following question both with respect to the
brocha in Shemone Esrei relating to the rebuilding of Yerushalayim, and the
third brocha of Birchas HaMazon relating to the rebuilding of Yerushalayim.
Each of these brochos requests “U’Venei”--that Hashem rebuild
Yerushalayim for us “B’mheira B’Yameinu--in the near future.” Yet,
each brocha concludes with the words “Boneh Yerushalayim”--which
means that Hashem is building Yerushalayim now. Which is it? Will Hashem
build Yerushalayim soon--or is Hashem building Yerushalayim right now (in
the present tense)? HaRav Schuck answers that if we sincerely look for the
rebuilding of Yerushalayim then Hashem is, in fact, building it now. It
really is dependent on our feeling, our sensitivity, our desire, our will.
How great! When we recite the words “U’venei Yerushalayim”, or “HaMachazir
Shechinaso L’Tzion” with real sincerity, Hashem is building Yerushalayim as
we meaningfully pray for it! This is something for us to remember every
day--three times daily! Hakhel Note: HaRav Schuck’s Yahrtzeit is on Tisha
B’Av.
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WE PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING PESAKIM FROM THE SEFER ASHREI HAISH (PESAKIM
OF HARAV ELYASHIV, Z’TL, BY RABBI YECHEZKEL FEINHANDLER, SHLITA) AND FROM
THE SEFER KOVETZ HALACHOS (PESAKIM OF HARAV SHMUEL KAMENETSKY, SHLITA
BY RABBI DONIEL KLEINMAN, SHLITA) RELATING TO TISHA B’AV:
From the Sefer Ashrei HaIsh:
1. There are various degrees as to the extent one should clean/wash his
hands after having touched a covered part of the body, his shoes, or dirtied
part of his hand but not the whole hand. Hakhel Note: One should consult
with his Rav or Posek as to the specific rules.
2. One who rides on a bus on the night of the fast of Tisha B’Av or before
Chatzos can sit on the regular seat (without having to remain standing), as
this is not considered a special act of pleasure or comfort. Of course, the
same would be true for a cab ride, and one would not have to make himself
uncomfortable in some way.
3. One should not fly on the fast of Tisha B’Av, as it constitutes a Hesech
HaDa’as from the Ta’anis.
4. Although one should not say Shalom or Good Morning in the morning,
wishing someone Mazel Tov is permissible.
5. If someone has taken upon himself to go to the Kosel for 40 days in a
row and recite Shir HaShirim as a segulah for a shidduch, he should go to
the Kosel at the same time on the fast of Tisha B’Av but not recite Shir
HaShirim (as it is Tisha B’Av), and then go back later after the fast of
Tisha B’Av and recite Shir HaShirim. With this, he should not lose the
segulah.
From the Sefer Kovetz Halachos:
1. If one is sitting on the ground itself (as opposed to a low chair), he
does not have to put something like an article of clothing or towel between
his body and the ground. While on or close to the ground (until Chatzos),
one does not have to stand up for a zaken or talmid chochom who passes by,
just as an avel is patur from this Mitzvah..
2. Although one cannot greet another, one can say Lehitraot, or Refuah
Shelaima, because these do not involve She’ailas Sholom. One should in any
event not engage in unnecessary conversation, because it removes one’s mind
from what it should be thinking about--Teshuva and aveilus of the
Rabim. Similarly, one should not take a baby unto his lap when not
necessary, for he may come to laughter.
3. Although in Shul the lights are dimmed, they need not be dimmed in the
home.
4. One can complete reciting Kinnos after Chatzos, if necessary.
5.It is permissible to say Tehillim for one who is ill at any time on Tisha
B’Av; one who usually recites a certain number of Kepitelach every day can
recite them after Chatzos.
6. On Tisha B’Av there is an absolute requirement of Talmud
Torah--but only of the sefarim that it is permissible to learn.
7. It is best for men to daven Mincha early on Tisha B’Av, so that they can
put on Tefillin at the earliest possible time.
Hakhel Note:
As we
have related in the past, the mother of Rabbi Mordechai Zuckerman, Z’tl, a
noted Talmud Chochom in Yerushalayim, davened Mincha close to sunset (which
is usually preferred, see Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 233:1) every day of
the year, except Tisha B’Av, when she would daven Mincha as early in the day
as was possible. Rabbi Zuckerman asked his mother why her practice on Tisha
B’Av was different than the other days of the year. She responded that the
Mincha of Tisha B’Av is the one time during the year where we add a special
Tefillah, asking Hashem to “Nachem”, to console, the mourners of Zion and
Yerushalayim. She simply could not wait to daven Mincha until later, as
this would mean an extra few hours of delay in begging Hashem to console us.
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IMPORTANT REFLECTIONS FOR TISHA B’AV:
1.
Who Wants to Eat? On Yom Kippur the Sefer Yesod V’Shoresh HaAvodah
teaches us that whenever one feels pangs of hunger or thirst, he should
promptly react with: “I am fulfilling the Mitzvas Asei of Inuy with
this pang!” So too, we suggest, one can have a related thought on Tisha
B’Av. It is said in the name of Gedolim that “Uff Yom Kippur Ver Ken
Essen, un Uff Tisha B’Av Vir Vill Essen
--on Yom Kippur who can eat, and on Tisha B’Av who wants to eat?” If one
feels the pangs of hunger or thirst--he should look back, look at the
present, and look to the future--and think of what he is fasting for.
2. On Sinas Chinam. The following is excerpted from the outstanding
Sefer Yearning with Fire--a Sefer which we highly recommend for every
Torah home: “For many years, Yeshivah Middos Tovos prided itself on turning
out graduates who were honest, helpful, and kind-hearted. The boys
developed these traits through their sincere Torah learning and the example
of their rosh yeshivah, Rabbi Goodman. Gradually, however; the students
became less receptive. Each new class was slightly more selfish and
abrasive than the class that had preceded it. The harder the yeshivah tried
to revitalize the spirit of its earlier years, the more the students
scoffed. Finally, Rabbi Goodman decided to close the doors of the
institution. If, ten years later, a group of parents were to approach Rabbi
Goodman and ask him to reopen his school, his first step would be to
ascertain who their sons were. If they were no different from the classes
enrolled a decade earlier, he would undoubtedly decline to reopen. That
reasoning helps to explain the Chofetz Chaim’s teaching that if Hashem
destroyed the Beis HaMikdash because of Sinas Chinam (baseless
hatred) [and Lashon Hara, evil gossip], He won’t permit it to be rebuilt if
we have not cured ourselves of these spiritual maladies.”
The goal, then, is to rid ourselves of Sinas Chinam as quickly and as
completely as possible. What is Sinas Chinam? The Sefer Yearning
with Fire continues: “Surprisingly, the Torah does not regard a string
of hateful insults, nor even a punch in the nose, as a transgression of the
commandment of ‘Lo Sisnah Es Achicha Bilevavecha’!” Rather, when a
person acts or speaks against his fellow Jew, his transgression is defined
by his act, such as hitting, insulting, cursing, bearing a grudge, or taking
revenge, rather than by the hatred motivating his act. It is hateful
thoughts that are prohibited by Lo Sisnah. In the secular legal
system, one cannot be prosecuted solely for his inner feelings, but only for
his express actions. Yet the Torah seems to teach that there is a special
toxicity to unexpressed hatred. The Rambam explains why: When a person
expresses negative feelings to his adversary, there is a potential for
reconciliation. Hiding one’s hatred leaves no possibility to improve
the relationship and foster unity. Besides the damage hatred causes on
its own, many other transgressions sprout from its toxic soil. That
is why Rabbeinu Yonah advises ridding oneself of hatred as a vital part of
Teshuvah. Without attacking this root cause, says Rashi, a person will
inevitably speak Lashon Hara about the subject of his hatred. Baseless
hatred is the tiny splinter of negative feeling that gets under our skin and
makes another person an irritation to us. Getting rid of these sharp shards
of strife and smoothing out the edges of our relationships with our fellow
Jews is a paramount objective for making our world ready for redemption. As
the clock moves forward, minute by minute, day by day, and the struggles and
anguish of the exile continue unabated, it becomes all the more urgent to
dig in and complete this essential task that has eluded us for nearly 2,000
years.”
3.
The Letter of the Law. Chazal (Baba Metziah 30B) teach that another
primary cause of the destruction of Yerushalayim was that people did not
conduct themselves Lifnim Mishuras HaDin--going beyond the exact
letter of the law: “I only have to do this”; “I don’t have to do that”; “I
do what I am supposed to”; “I don’t owe him a dime”; “I am one hundred
percent right and he is one hundred percent wrong”; “I do exactly what it
says”--all may be technically correct, but Chazal teach that we must do
better than the letter of the law. In business, there is a saying that
a good businessman ‘leaves a little bit of money on the table’--not taking
the last penny for himself at the closing of a deal. Nobody wants strict
justice--why should we impose ours on others?! Think about how you can
improve in acting Lifnim Mishuras HaDin with at least one
person or in at least one way.
4.
The Remnants. Rabbi Yisroel Reisman, Shlita, importantly explains the
term She’eiris Yisrael or She’eiris Hapleitah--i.e., the
remnants of K’lal Yisrael, and most recently the remnants of those that
survived the horrors of World War Two. The term Nishar,
according to the Malbim, is different than the term Nosar, in that
Nishar indicates something that was left over deliberately and
with a plan, while Nosar refers to something left over incidentally
or unintentionally. For instance, the Shirayim of a Rebbe is
intentionally left for his Chassidim, while the meat of a Karbon that is
left over past its time and must be burnt is called Nosar--nobody
wanted that to happen. The Malbim brings many proofs for this distinction
from Chumash and Tanach. What we have to realize is that we are not
Nosarim but Nisharim--the intentional remnants of K’lal
Yisrael--not having been left here incidentally, without a plan, because of
unforeseen circumstances or by mistake. We have a purpose and we must live
with that purpose every day. Rabbi Reisman teaches that one who is a
Nishar must know and understand that he must exert the extra effort
to rise above his weaknesses (and perhaps laziness) and undertake the
actions that a survivor would undertake. One should not necessarily quit on
a Shiur, or on doing a Chesed because he has a headache, feels weak, is in
despair or feels like he is ‘falling apart’. Instead, he must rise above
the situation to survive and further survive--for there is a plan and he has
a purpose. Each and every one of us is a part of the She’eiris--let
us not only wear the badge with honor--but with action!
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THIS YEAR, CAN WE SHED A TEAR?!
The
Gemara (Megilla 21A) teaches that Moshe Rabbeinu would learn the more
difficult laws and concepts of the Torah sitting down.
As we
sadly noted last year, if we have to sit down this Tisha B’Av, we should
take the time out to go over in our mind some of the difficult concepts that
we tend to ignore, or at least avoid, during the rest of the year—the
churbonos and the tzaros that have accompanied us through the ages and into
our day.
Can we
not shed a tear over:
·
The pain of the Shechina over the chillul Hashem of the Galus (the Father’s
pain is greater than the child’s)
·
The void left by the Beis Hamikdash that is not with us and the resulting
void of sanctity within us (we could be closer to angels, and not closer to
animals)
·
The honor of K’lal Yisrael that has been cast to the ground and trampled
upon
·
The Cohens and Levys of the world who are not Jewish
·
The Crusades
·
The Pogroms
·
The 1648-1649 Massacres
·
The Holocaust
·
The Yom Kippur War
·
The Lebanon War
·
The Gaza War
·
Terrorism of a kind that the world has never faced before
·
The murders in N’vei Tzuf, the Har Nof Massacre, the murder of the
three-month old Chaya Zissel (a’h) Bas R’ Shmuel
Elimelech. The kidnapping and murder of Naftali Fraenkel, Gilad Shaar
and Eyal Yifrach, the Bulgaria murders, the Toulouse murders of Rabbi
Sandler and the three little children, the Fogel massacre, the Mumbai
atrocity, the Sbarros bombing, the bombing of Bus Number 2, the Leil HaSeder
attack, the drive-by murders, the tractor terror, the Merkaz HaRav murders,
the knife attacks, the hundreds of other terrorist attacks, the murders and
maimings, the mortars and bombs, the soldiers and the children all under
attack
· The
Sassoon children
·
All of the unnecessary sickness and suffering for 2,000 years (multiplied by
each second of pain)
·
The desolation and ruination of the Har Habayis, Har Hazeisim, Chevron,
Teveria…
·
Low levels of conduct in Galus--smiling at the mishap of another, failing to
properly rejoice at another’s simcha, and finding it hard to accept
another’s honor and success
·
The Jews who do not even know that Tisha B’Av exists
·
The Jews who know that Tisha B’Av exists and do not grow in their resolve to
do something to end this Churban as soon as possible
The
Navi (Yeshaya 1:3, which we read as part of last week’s Haftara) teaches “Ami
Lo Hisbonan--My nation did not consider.” Rashi adds that the people
knew they were acting improperly but “tread with their heels” on this
knowledge, and simply “did not take it to heart.”
We all
know too well the desperate straits we are in at this time, in which we deal
with the Churban of Eretz Yisrael and Yerushalayim--the defiling of a land
and of a people on the one hand; and the turmoil in Eretz Yisrael
today--upon which the nations of the world have heaped additional disgrace
and scorn, on the other.
Oh,
what has befallen us! A nation in ruins, the holiest people on Earth berated
by the lowest nations on Earth. What makes us better today than the captives
of Judea taken by the Romans more than 1940 years ago? We cannot allow
ourselves to be fooled by the amenities, luxuries, or even just the relative
comfort in which we live. We have been in exile far too long, and the longer
we are here, the worse off we are.
L’Ma’aseh, living with reality and practically speaking, we are walking
about badly wounded in this bitter exile.
Yirmiyahu HaNavi cries out (Eicha 2:19) “Shifchi Kamayim Libeich--pour
out your heart [to Hashem] like water.”
Let us
take the time on Tisha B’Av to be misbonein over the pain and
mourning over the Chilul Hashem that exists in the world today, over
Hashem’s pain which is infinitely greater than ours, over a world that has
been lowered to the bottom of the bottom-most depths, over all the
individual and communal pain and anguish, over these and much more, we must
cry real, very real, tears.
Yirmiyahu HaNavi further teaches (31:14), “A voice is heard on high,
lamentation, bitter weeping, Rochel weeping for her children, she refuses to
be comforted for her children, for they are not.” On this Pasuk, the Mahari
Kara (in the Mikraos Gedolos) writes that Rochel Imeinu represents K’lal
Yisrael, and that our weeping in exile is heard by Hashem’s ears.
So, as
much as we would not like to, we must cry--really cry. We must realize that
we are in the nadir of our exile. The Tay-Sachs test, when originally
developed, required a person to shed a tear, which was then tested. One had
to think of something sad to shed that tear. Is it such a great challenge to
cry unabashedly over an unfulfilled world, over the world’s most precious
possessions disgraced and derided, over all the unnecessary anguish,
unnecessary suffering, destruction, and death that we are currently
experiencing?
If,
for some reason you cannot cry--at least cry out--as our
forefathers did in Mitzrayim. Remember, the gates of tears--and the gates of
ruchniyus--are never closed. If we have to sit on the Ta’anis, it should do
more than cause us some temporary physical pain. Plead to Hashem as Dovid
HaMelech does: “El Dimosi Al Techerash--do not be silent to my
tears!” (Tehillim 39:13) Hashem, I will not find comfort with the few
pleasures I have when the Heavens and the Earth writhe in pain! Please join
with your brothers on Tisha B’Av, as our sincere tears and cries reach the
Heavens. May these tears and cries turn into overflowing sounds of salvation
for each and every one of us, as we join together to witness the comforting
of our people and the ultimate final and glee-filled redemption--speedily
and in our days.
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ONE
FINAL, VERY IMPORTANT POINT: The experience of Tisha B’Av should not
be one of Yei’ush--despair, combined with a feeling of
hypocrisy--knowing that one will eat on Tuesday night and have Shabbos
Nachamu in a week. No, Tisha B’Av is quite to the contrary a time for us to
revitalize our Achakeh Lo--our anticipation, our outstretched
hope, our true yearning that the Moshiach really finally does come, and
mankind reaches its final goal. It is one of the most basic tenets of Torah
belief, as told and retold by our Nevi’im, that the Geulah will come.
As to why the Moshiach did not come in the times of Rav and Shmuel, in the
times of Ravina and Rav Ashi, or those of Rashi, the Rambam, the Ramban, the
Bais Yosef, the G’ra, Rebbi Akiva Eiger, the Belzer Rebbe, the Ben Ish Chai
or any of the outstandingly great Gedolei HaDor we have had in the past, it
is simply not something we can understand at this moment. Furthermore, for
all of those who thought that it would be the Chofetz Chaim, the Chazon Ish,
the Baba Sali, the Steipeler, HaRav Shach, or HaRav Elyashiv that would lead
us to Moshiach, this is also, devastatingly, not the reality now.
Nevertheless, we must intensely believe, and intensely demonstrate, that
we know that the Geulah will come. We must bring home to ourselves that
it is not another Tisha B’Av because it was so last year, the year before,
or a hundred years before. It is another Tisha B’Av because in the stretch
between Tisha B’Av 5776 and 5777, we simply did not put enough bricks on the
wall. The absolute truth is that it may literally be his one extra hour
of Torah study, or her one act of Chesed that brings us over the top.
The Alter of Kelm teaches that one of the greatest lessons of Tisha B’Av is
rooted in the Sefer Nefesh HaChaim: The stabbing of the Paroches
by Titus after he and his soldiers had come into the Beis HaMikdash and
defiled it in any way they thought possible was, in fact, deemed by Hashem
to be a meaningless act, with no effect in the Heavens whatsoever. Indeed,
as Chazal teach, the Heavens cried out at the time of the destruction:
“[What have you done--nothing!] You have burned a burnt building.” Each one
of us, on the other hand, can make the Heavens shake with a deed of
kindness, an act of goodness, a sincere prayer, and meaningful Teshuvah. It
is up to us, each and every day until the Geulah arrives. There is hope,
there is a future, there is an end. All of the sad Tisha B’Av’s will vanish
into past history, hopefully sooner than later. We all chant together at
the end of Megillas Eicha (5:21): “Hashiveinu Hashem Eilecha
VeNashuva Chadeish Yameinu KiKedem--bring us back to You Hashem, and we
shall return, renew our days as of old.” When we can achieve this
point--not only will Eicha be at an end--but so will this bitter Galus, and
the sweet Geulah will begin!
MAY
WE BE ZOCHE TO NECHOMAS TZION V’YERUSHALAYIM THIS YEAR. ALL WHO
MOURN OVER YERUSHALAYIM WILL BE ZOCHE TO SEE ITS REBUILDING!
==============================
5 Menachem Av
TIMELY
QUESTION OF THE DAY:
In
this week’s Parasha (always read before Tisha B’Av), Rashi teaches us an
incredible fact. On the words “Ba’eir Es HaTorah--explaining the
Torah” (Devorim 1:5), Rashi brings the Midrash that Moshe Rabbeinu explained
the Torah to the Bnei Yisrael in 70 languages. Why? After all, the people
in the desert knew Lashon Hakodesh and maybe a little Egyptian, but why
teach them in 70 languages?!
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MINDFUL MITZVOS LINK:
By the following link, we provide a wonderful tool of inspiration to perform
Mitzvos with proper Kavannah
http://tinyurl.com/ybn8wxky
------------------------------------------
EVEN
IN OUR GENERATION!
In a
Shiur related to Tisha B’Av, Rabbi Zev Leff, Shlita, explained that
in the Haggada Shel Pesach there are two times the phrase “Bechol Dor
V’Dor” appears: (1) Bechol Dor V’Dor Chayav Adam Liros Es Atzmo--in
every generation a person is obligated to view himself as having been
redeemed from Egypt; and (2) Bechol Dor V’Dor Omdim Aleinu Lechaloseinu--
in every generation our enemies attempt to destroy us (whether blatantly or
not). Chazal, by putting both phrases of Bechol Dor V’Dor into the
Haggada are teaching us that just as each generation in Galus deserves to be
in Galus--each and every generation--including ours--has the potential for
redemption. It is up to us not to look this way or that way, backwards,
frontwards or sideways--but into ourselves--so that we can experience the
very much preferred Bechol Dor V’Dor!
-------------------------------------------
ACTUALLY--MUCH TO LOOK FORWARD TO! Rabbeinu
Sa’adia Gaon teaches as follows: Hashem related to Avraham Avinu just two
words about what would happen to the Mitzriyim when the time for Geulas
Mitzrayim would come--’Dun Anochi--I will judge them’. Yet, we all
know the fantastic miracles and wonders that subsequently occurred. Imagine,
then, continues Rabbeinu Sa’adia Gaon about the future Geulah--think of the
[perhaps thousands of] words of nechama in the Seforim of Yirmiyahu,
Yeshayahu, Yecheskel and Trei Asar--how great and wondrous will the Geulah
Sheleimah be! Hakhel Note: All we have to do is take it seriously--and
properly ready ourselves!
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PERHAPS YOU CAN START HERE…!
That
one item that you were meaning to get to--improving your Kavannah in Pesukei
D’Zimrah, Shema or Shemone Esrei; making sure to be on time for davening in
Shul or to the Shiur; starting the new Gemach; making a daily Chesed call….
Whatever it may be that you have intended to begin but have not yet done
so--now during this very important period in which we strive to
increase our levels of Avodah--to show that we are ready for more--is truly
the time to get started!
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APPRECIATING ALL OF HIS WONDERS:
The following two extremely practical and meaningful points are excerpted
from
Let There Be Rain
by Rabbi Shimon Finkelman, Shlita, and Rabbi Zechariah Wallerstein, Shlita (Artscroll/Mesorah)
1. Rav
Shimon Schwab, Z’tl, teaches: “My Rebbi, Rav Yeruchom Levovitz, Z’tl, the
Mirrer Mashgiach, would say that just as one is impressed by a very loud,
crashing clap of thunder, and consequently trembles when saying the bracha
of Shekocho U’Gevuraso Maleih Olam, so should one also tremble and be
awe-inspired when saying the bracha of Shehakol Nehiyeh Bidvaro
before drinking a glass of water. The creation of water is just as much a
result of the strength and power of Hashem as is thunder and lightning.”
2. Rav
Zev Smith, Shlita, writes: “If a person wants to acquire love of Hashem,
says Rambam, he should look at the miracles of the natural world. [In summer
camp] Rav Nesanel Quinn, Z’tl, often took us on walks, and would point to a
tree, a patch of grass. Each was in his eyes a Mitzvah object from which to
learn. In our daily prayers we say that this world is filled with
Kinyanecha which literally means “Your [Hashem’s] possessions”. Rav
Quinn would quote [his mentor] HaRav Shraga Feivel Mendlowitz, Z’tl, who
said that the word Kinyan is a method by which to acquire something.
By pondering the wonders of creation, we acquire love of Hashem.
Accordingly, the intent of the prayer is, ‘How manifold are Your works,
Hashem…the earth is filled with ways by which to acquire love of You,
Who has created this amazing world’.”
-------------------------------------------
ON THE YAHRZEIT OF THE ARIZAL:
As many may know, today is the Yahrzeit of the Arizal. It is particularly
noteworthy during this time of year that the Arizal is known for instructing
us to be mekabel the Mitzvas Aseh of VeAhavta LeRayacha Kamocha
before davening. What greater Mitzvah can we be involved in on his Yahrzeit--knowing
that our lack of brotherhood (Sinas Chinam) drove us away from meriting the
Bais Hamikdash--and how its repair --through VeAhavta LeRayacha Kamocha
-can bring us back home. There is a fascinating Maharal at the outset of
Sefer Gevuras Hashem, in which the Maharal explains that the word for
exile (Golah--Gimel, Lamed, Heh), and the word for redemption (Goel--Gimel,
Aleph, Heh) are different in that the word for exile contains a Heh, and the
word for redemption contains an Aleph. He explains as follows: A Heh has the
numerical equivalent of five--and this symbolizes the four corners of an
object (such as the earth), together with its fifth point-- its center. The
letter Aleph has a numerical equivalent of one--symbolizing the center point
which unites all else around. In the Galus we are in, we are spread to the
four corners of the world--but we have not lost the center--the power of
unity that brings us all together. We must always remember that our Galus
is not marked by a Daled--with only four corners--but instead is made up of
a Heh -- a fifth point at the center at which the four points can unite. We
have not lost this bond in thousands of years--as Jews from such diverse
Galus-countries as Afghanistan,
Argentina,
Russia,
France
and the United States
will all get together in camaraderie and to help each other. This link has
never been, and will never be, broken. Our role in Galus is to bring the
four corners closer and closer towards the middle point--bonding closer and
closer to achieve an Aleph. When we have made sufficient gains with each
other-- we will be zoche to bond with Hashem in the Bais HaMikdash again.
When this happens and the Geulah Sheleimah comes--the Aleph will be
permanent--and our bonds with Hashem will be unshakable, unbreakable,
eternal and everlasting.
Hakhel
Note: The Arizal teaches that in order to be zoche to Ruach HaKodesh, one
should recite Birkas HaNehenin properly. We provide by the following link
--
http://www.hakhel.info/archivesPublicService/AlHamichyaElucidated.pdf a
simple translation of Al HaMichya and Borei Nefashos in Hebrew. By using
these translations (at least once a day), one may demonstrate that he
aspires to the days when Ruach HaKodesh will once again be prevalent among
us, and that he too aspires to that very same Ruach HaKodesh.
----------------------------------------------------
WE
CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
1. The following important rulings are excerpted from the Kuntres Lev Ita,
by Rabbi Yisroel Dov Webster, Shlita. Of course, one
should obtain a final ruling on all personal matters from his Rav or Posek:
A.
BATHING.
According to
many Poskim,
one is not allowed to shower or bathe even with cold water for Shabbos.
However, one is permitted to wash one’s face, hands and feet with hot water
and soap if one is accustomed to do so every Erev Shabbos. According to
some Poskim, since in today’s time we shower or bathe frequently and
many people are sensitive and cannot go into Shabbos without a clean
feeling, one may be lenient Erev Shabbos Chazon for those that shower/bathe
themselves every Erev Shabbos. Therefore, according to these Poskim one may
shower or bathe with hot water, soap and shampoo. According to all
Poskim, one is permitted to bathe children under Bar Mitzvah. If one
bathes the children Thursday evening during the year, one may do so this
week.
B.
MIKVAH.
It is permitted for a person to immerse himself in a cold/lukewarm mikvah
Erev Shabbos Chazon if he is accustomed to do so every Erev Shabbos.
However, if one omits immersing in the mikvah on Erev Shabbos occasionally
either because he is too busy or due to cold weather, then one should not
immerse himself this week. Whenever one is permitted to immerse in a mikvah,
one may not remain in the water longer than he needs to. Furthermore, one
may not immerse oneself in a hot mikvah. One is permitted to immerse
oneself Shabbos morning in a cold mikvah.
C.
CUTTING NAILS.
One is
permitted to cut one’s nails in honor of Shabbos on Erev Shabbos.
D.
CHANGING INTO SHABBOS CLOTHING FOR SHABBOS.
There is a dispute among the Poskim as to whether one may change from his
weekday garments into Shabbos garments for Shabbos Chazon. The Minhag is to
follow the ruling of the G’ra and permit changing to Shabbos clothing.
However, there are some who do follow the Minhag of the Rema and do not
change into Shabbos clothing except for a clean shirt. Some are stringent
and do not permit putting on their Shabbos clothing until after Plag
HaMincha. Others are lenient and permit one to change into Shabbos clothing
after midday. Note: One is permitted to change the hand towels and
tablecloths in honor of Shabbos.
E.
WASHING
THE FLOOR.
One is
permitted to wash the kitchen floor in honor of Shabbos.
F.
POLISHING
SHOES, POLISHING SILVER.
One is
permitted to polish or shine one’s shoes and/or polish silver in honor of
Shabbos. However, one is not permitted to get a shoe shine.
G. EATING
OR TASTING MEAT ITEMS EREV SHABBOS.
One is
permitted to give meat to small children after midday Erev Shabbos. Some
Poskim are of the opinion that it is permitted only one to two hours before
Shabbos and only if one normally gives the children to eat at this time.
One is permitted to make Shabbos early and eat meat at the Shabbos meal even
though it is not dark yet.
H.
NIGGUNIM.
One is not allowed to show public mourning on Shabbos Chazon; therefore the
Minhag of changing the niggun for some of the tefillos on Shabbos is a
matter of discussion among the Poskim. Some Poskim are of the opinion that
one should sing all the nigunim that are sung in the davening with their
regular tunes and not of those of Eicha etc. (e.g. Lecha Dodi, Kail Adon,
Haftarah). However, other Poskim permit one to change the niggun for these
Piyutim. Hakhel Note: In all events, it would be very worthwhile for one to
study the words of Lecha Dodi this Shabbos--as he recites them--especially
as they relate to Churban and Binyan Yerushalayim. We add, however, that one
is not generally permitted to engage in stressful or sorrowful thoughts on
Shabbos (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 306:8).
2.
This Shabbos, Shabbos Chazon (as we eat meat and drink wine during the Nine
Days), we should be especially aware of the Kedushas Shabbos, with the
knowledge that as great as the Binyan Bais HaMikdash is--and what it would
accomplish for the whole world--it is still not doche, does not push
aside, the Shabbos…and must wait until after Shabbos has concluded! Indeed,
even if Tisha B’Av would occur on Shabbos, we still celebrate Shabbos--with
the gefilte fish, the cholent…the Oneg Shabbos in its honor! Indeed, this
Shabbos, we should try to be a bit more careful with the greatness of
Shabbos. If we feel that somehow we end up in some way moving Muktzah,
inadvertently doing Borer, or not knowing what to do in a particular
situation and ‘gambling’ with our own Shabbos P’sak, then this is the
Shabbos for us to set out to rectify this kind of act or that kind of
thing. If one is used to playing with his hair and often then finds hairs
pulled out in front of him, or if one is used to biting his nails or peeling
at his skin, then this Shabbos should be the dividing line. The Kedusha of
Shabbos is so great, as is evidenced by its special observance in the face
of the Nine Days and Tisha B’Av--let us make sure that we inject Kedusha
into our personal situations and circumstances as well! Our dear readers,
Mekadesh HaShabbos…Kol Mekadesh Shevii...let us especially feel and
appreciate it tomorrow!
3.
HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, rules that the Havdala wine on Motza’ei
Shabbos Chazon should preferably be given to a child--even if he is of age
to understand about the aveilus of Yerushalayim--rather than one drinking it
himself. However, if one does have to drink the cup one does not have to be
makpid about drinking exactly a revi’is--and can drink the whole cup.
-------------------------------------------
TIMELY
POINTS ON THIS WEEK’S PARASHA, PARASHAS DEVARIM:
1. The
Pasuk (Devorim 1:8) teaches: “Ba’u U’reshu Es Ha’aretz--come and
possess the land that Hashem swore to your forefathers….” Rashi (ibid.)
explains that war would not even have been necessary--we would have simply
entered and possesed--had the Meraglim not spoken Lashon Hara. Thereafter,
we would have remained in the land without the need or use of any kelei
zayin--any weaponry forever! Let us stop Lashon Hara now--so that
we can rid THE WORLD of ugly weaponry once and for all!
2. In
a very much related vein, Rashi (ibid. 2:5) teaches that in the reward of
Lot remaining silent and simply not revealing Sarah Imeinu’s identity
as Avraham Avinu’s wife, he was zoche to become the forefather of two (Amon
and Moav) of the ten nations that would inhabit Eretz Yisrael and the
environs around it. Imagine--for remaining silent, but once!
3.
Hashem tells Moshe Rabbeinu (Devarim 2:31 ): “Re’eih Hachilosi Teis
Lifanecha Es Sichon V’Es Artzo--see I have begun to deliver before you
Sichon and his land.” Hashem clarifies to all that it was not a human battle
with Sichon--it was simply Hashem causing this great power and his people to
melt before K’lal Yisrael. How is this accomplished? Rashi (ibid.) teaches
that Hashem placed the Sar (the angel) of the Emorim under the legs
of Moshe, so that Moshe could trample over the Sar. Although battles
and conquests are fought physically in the world below--they are simply the
actualization of the heavenly decree. We must constantly remind ourselves of
how wars are truly won--as we engage in Talmud Torah, Tefillah, Mitzvos and
Ma’asim Tovim on behalf of K’lal Yisrael the world over.
----------------------------------------------------------
IMPORTANT REFLECTIONS FOR THE DAYS BEFORE TISHA B”AV:
PART 1
1.
What does the lack of a Bais Hamikdash mean? We are taught (see for example
Divrei HaYamim 1:25 and Rashi there) that the Chapters of Tehillim were so
inspirational that their recitation by the Levi’im in the Bais Hamikdash
brought them to Ruach HaKodesh. How can we live with such a stark void?
How can we live without Nevi’im to guide us and Kohanim to teach us? How
can we live without Korbanos which by its very meaning teaches us
that our bringing them is a guaranteed means of coming closer to Hashem?
The holiest place in the world is the Kodesh HaKedashim--how can we allow
the world to continue to exist--without its holiest place?
2.
How deadened have my senses become in Galus? How can I be content with what
my eyes see around me? How can I be used to the words that my ears hear?
What parts of Western civilization are emblazoned in my home, on my clothing
(even glasses and sneakers!), and worse yet--in my heart?!
3.
The Shechina is out of its home. It is in Galus! Dovid HaMelech cried out
to Hashem that he could not live like that--without the Shechina in its
resting place. How could we then be complacent, and look away at the
Tza’ar HaShechina? Shouldn’t we at least feel the Tza’ar three
times a day, every day when reciting the bracha of V’Lirushalayim Irecha
BeRachamim Tashuv?
4.
. Tzefanayah HaNavi (3:13) teaches us that “She’eiris
Yisrael Lo Ya’asu Avlah VeLo Yedabru Chazav VeLo YeMatzei BiPhihem
Leshon Tarmis--those who remain at the time of the Moshiach…will be
those that did not speak falsely or deceitfully.” How important is honesty
in one’s life! It is literally the difference as to whether one will be
present at the end of days, says the Navi. What an important ambition in
life!
5. Do
I realize what the world will be like when the Geulah finally comes? As we
have noted in the past, HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl, taught that
there will even be four brachos that are recited when the Moshiach comes.
The Mishna (Brachos 9:2) itself teaches that when we see Avodah Zara
uprooted from Eretz Yisrael we will be able to recite the bracha of: “Baruch
She’akar Avodah Zara MeiArtzeinu”! Oh, how we must await the Geulah!
Chazal teach that the Ananei Kavod--the cloud of glory will even
return to transport us, that the sick will be healed, that the agony and
groans of this world will be no more--and that we will live in eternal
happiness. Moreover, if one truly mourns the destruction of the Mikdash,
HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita, [Mattisyahu Chaim Ben Ettel] adds that he
will be zoche to a Techiyas HaMeisim which precedes the general Techiyas
HaMeisim--so that he can truly see the Bais Hamikdash being rebuilt with his
own eyes!
------------------------------------------
REMINDER!
If you
were given a 10 minute notice that Eliyahu HaNavi was about to arrive-- or
even a one-minute notice--how would you prepare?
Hakhel
Note: What will Eliyahu HaNavi accomplish upon his arrival? The last
Mishna in Edios (8:7) brings different opinions as to Eliyahu’s actual role,
and concludes with the words of the Chachamim: ”Eliyahu will not come to
make distant those who are currently close, or to make close those who are
currently distant. Rather, his purpose it to make peace in the world.” Oh,
how we need this now! The world and all its inhabitants, including
parents and children, students and teachers, all of the estranged, and the
erstwhile enemies, will no longer have a shred of Machlokes between them.
Peace and only peace will be the common thread of all humanity. With this
realization--that the singular task of Eliyahu HaNavi is to bring peace to
the world--perhaps we should realize what an important goal peace really is
even now--and place especially important focus and attention on the last
Bracha of Shemone Esrei, and the other areas of Davening in which we plead
for peace. If we conclude Shemone Esrei with this plea, conclude Birkas
Kohanim with this plea, conclude Bentsching with this plea…and Eliyahu
HaNavi’s sole role will bring its ultimate realization, then we must do our
part to realize its essential and unparalleled place in our lives, and in
the lives of our family, community, and the world at large. The next time
(and every time!) you say Sim Shalom, Shalom Rav, Hashem Yivarech Es Amo
BaShalom... or even Shalom Aleichem--especially during these
perilous times--give it the special meaning and inspired intent that it
actually, realistically and so very truly deserves!
------------------------------------------
PURITY!
We understand that some have difficulty contemplating what life will be like
after the Third Beis HaMikdash arrives. One person suggested to us that he
thinks of his greatest end of Yom Kippur experience--the feeling of extreme
cleanliness and purity--a feeling that each and every one of us has
experienced to some extent and in some way. With the Geulah, this feeling of
purity is what we will experience every day, he suggests--a thousand fold,
or more!
==============================
4 Menachem Av
FROM A READER:
“In
Show of Sensitivity to Yesomim and Others, Baltimore’s Vaad HaRabbanim Has
Changed Avos Ubonim to Kol Hane’arim.”
--------------------------------------------
THE
YAHRZEIT OF THE MAHARAM MIPANU:
Today is the Yahrzeit of the Maharam MiPanu (R’Menachem Azarya ben
R’Yitzchak Berechia), Z’tl. The Maharam taught that the word Tzedaka in “Aat
Bash” (equating the first letter and the last letter of the Aleph Bais,
the second letter with the second to last letter, the third letter with the
third to last letter, through the whole Aleph Bais ) also spells Tzedaka
--with the tzadik (the fifth letter from the end of the Aleph Bais) being
the equivalent of the hey (the fifth letter from the beginning of the Aleph
Bais), and the daled (fourth letter from beginning)being the equivalent of
the kuf (fourth letter from end), and the same analysis continuing for the
final two letters of Tzedaka--the kuf and the heh. Tzedaka is thus
Tzedaka--no matter which end of the Aleph Bais you start from! The
great lesson is that one who gives Tzedaka in the beginning (represented by
counting from the beginning of the Aleph Bais)--loses nothing, for Hashem
ensures that in one way or another he receives it all back (represented by
the counting from the end of the Aleph Bais). Let us remember these words
as we prepare to give Tzedaka over the next several days in order to fulfill
the words of the Navi Yeshaya--“VeShaveha BiTzedaka--and those who
return…with acts of charity!” If you need an important Tzedaka address
to help feed the poor in Eretz Yisrael--we refer you to
yadeliezer.org
-------------------------------------------------
AN
OPPORTUNITY FOR LIMUD ZECHUS!
To some, it may seem puzzling that suddenly during the Nine Days there are
so many Siyumim which don’t appear to occur to this extent the rest of the
year. The Luach Davar BeIto, has a beautiful Limud Zechus in this
area. The outward appearance of the lower- level person craving meat during
a time when it is otherwise forbidden should be largely overshadowed in our
minds by two important purposes that are being accomplished simultaneously.
First, there is an increase in pride in Torah study. As we know, after the
Bais HaMikdash was destroyed what remains with Hashem is the “Daled Amos
Shel Halacha--our world of Torah. By studying and accomplishing a Siyum, we
demonstrate to Hashem that we want to do our best with what He and we have
left in these sorry circumstances of Galus. Second, we invite others to
join along with us in friendship and togetherness, thereby demonstrating the
Ahavas Yisrael so necessary to extricate us from our Galus condition. In
most, if not all, events and circumstances, an act is really determined
by the intentions behind it. The turkey platter or corned beef sandwich
can simply serve to satisfy one’s desires--or be a byproduct of Talmud Torah
and Ahavas Yisrael!
--------------------------------------------
CHESED IN GALUS:
Notwithstanding the current comforts that we may enjoy in certain
countries, we are still very much in Galus--and we are reminded of it every
day. We cannot, and must not, however, ignore the reality of the relative
comforts that we do experience--to the point that, Baruch Hashem U’Bli Ayin
Hara, we cannot even fathom how one could survive though the Holocaust
circumstances that our grandparents and parents actually lived through.
Just as we are reminded that we are in Galus daily, we must likewise remind
ourselves of the Chesed that we are currently experiencing in this Galus. Shlomo
HaMelech, the wisest of all men, teaches (Koheles 7:14) “Beyom Tova Heyeh
Vetov… On a day of good, one should recognize and be happy with it.”
Particularly during this time of year, when we emphasize our lament over
the Galus and take concrete steps to end it--we should also express our
genuine and heartfelt Hakaras HaTov and thanks to HaKadosh Baruch Hu, for
His chesed in easing the pain of Galus for us. May it get no worse--only
better for us--until the Geulah. One should think about this during Modim,
at the end of Shemone Esrei, or in his personal conversations with Hashem.
Hakhel
Note: As we have noted in the past, the Pasuk “Chasdei Hashem Ki Lo
Samnu--Hashem--Your Chassodim do not cease”--is found in Megilas
Eicha!
-------------------------------------------------
THE
FOURTH DAY OF AV:
Today is marked on the Jewish calendar in an incredible way. On the Fourth
Day of Av, Nechemiah, the leader of the Jewish people who had returned from
Galus Bavel, began to repair the broken walls of Yerushalayim. Indeed,
portions of this rebuilt wall can still be seen today. The repair process
took 52 days, and was completed on the 25th of Elul. Thus, the ‘repair’ of
Yerushalayim began during the very Nine Day Period in which we commemorate
and commiserate over its destruction and loss. There is no doubt that the
time period we are in reverberates with our relationship to Yerushalayim and
the Bais HaMikdash. It is up to us to steer it away from the direction of
destruction and ruin and towards the course of an everlasting rebuilding and
rededication.
HaRav
Elyashiv, Z’tl, makes a wonderful point in this regard. Chazal teach that
when adding on to the Mikdash, one of the chapters of Tehillim that was
recited was Tehillim Chapter 30, appropriately entitled “Mizmor Shir
Chanukas HaBayis LeDovid--a song for the inauguration of the Bais HaMikdash
by Dovid HaMelech.” We are all very familiar with this Kepitel, for we
recite it in Shacharis every morning, and daily on Chanukah when we also
commemorate the rededication of the Bais HaMikdash. HaRav Elyashiv asks a
stark question--after we recite the first Pasuk of Mizmor Shir Chanukas
HaBayis--what does the rest of the Kepitel have to do at all with the Bais
HaMikdash? Take a look at the rest of the Pesukim, such as “Shivati
Eilecha Vetirpa’eini--I cried out to You, and You healed me.” “Histarta
Phanecha Hayisi Nivhal--You conceal Yourself, and I am confounded.” “Hashem
Heyei Ozer Li--Hashem be my Helper.” In looking at the Kepitel, it
appears to be a moving and personalized plea for Hashem’s help. But, once
again, what does it have to do with the Bais HaMikdash?! HaRav Elyashiv
answers that Dovid HaMelech truly felt that as long as the Bais HaMikdash
was not in a position of great prominence--he himself was suffering, he
himself was in anguish and incomplete. However, with a built Mikdash, he
exclaims “He’elisa Min Sheol Nafshi--You have raised up my soul from
the lower world!” This, then is Dovid HaMelech’s lesson to us from Tehillim
Chapter 30. Because we lack the Bais HaMikdash in all of its splendor--we
must inwardly feel the full measure of the Yiddish expression: “Se Gait Mir
In Laiben--it troubles me terribly, it troubles me personally.” Please look
at the Kepital again and envisage how your need for the Chanukas HaBayis
bothers you as much as your own predicaments and circumstances, your own
troubles and difficulties--and how the Chanukas HaBayis itself will usher in
the utmost joy. Every time we recite this Chapter (for Nussach Ashkenaz it
actually inaugurates the Pisukei DeZimra)--we should have in mind not only
our own trials and tribulations, but also how much the absence of a Bais
HaMikdash personally means--after all it is the Mizmor Shir Chanukas
HaBayis. With this zechus of a true and proper recital of this Kepitel
daily, we come to its last, conclusory and climactic Pasuk--”LeMa’an
Yezamercha Chavod VeLo Yidom, Hashem Elokai LeOlam Odeka--so that my
soul might sing to You and not be still-- Hashem I will thank You forever!”
==============================
3 Menachem Av
THE THREE WEEKS!
By the following link
http://tinyurl.com/yae9jutg
we provide a kuntrus entitled MeiAfar Kumi, by Rabbi Ronen
Shaharbany, Shlita, on The Three Weeks with outstanding insights.
Please feel free to distribute further!
-----------------------------------------------
PLEASE DAVEN!
During the next week, we especially urge you to recite The TEFILLAH AHL
HAGEULAH, which we have referred to in the past, and which is available in
both Hebrew and English by the following links:
Hebrew
-
http://bit.ly/bZANrA
English
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http://bit.ly/a1hRe3
Hakhel
Note: It would also seem appropriate to look for the terms ‘geulah’
and ‘yeshua’ in your davening and make them real-very real!
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TWO MORE IMPORTANT TIMELY REMINDERS:
* SEVER PONIM YAFOS!
** TEHILLIM CHAPTERS 79, 83 AND/OR 137 AT MIDDAY OR AT LEAST AT SOME
POINT DURING THE DAY.
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AN
IMPORTANT GUIDELINE:
Many Halachic issues arise during the Nine Days, and perhaps a Rav must be
consulted more often than throughout the year. At a Hakhel Shiur, Rabbi
Dovid Ribiat, Shlita, provided an important guideline in areas of doubt or
in instances when your Rav is not reachable: Remember, you are observing
this period because of the “Shechinta DeGalusa--the Shechina is in
Galus.” If the issue at hand it is a question of your personal comfort, you
should remember that the Shechina is also not comfortable. He posited, for
example, that while it may be permissible to sleep on freshly laundered
linen in your hotel room--it would truly be better for you to bring your own
linen from home, or at least try to make the linen not feel so freshly
laundered. It is not a matter of how to treat yourself--but how you feel
towards the Shechina, and the rest of us in Galus with you.
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80,000!
The Chofetz Chaim provides
the following stark words: “If someone is not as careful as he should be and
speaks ‘only four or five’ words of Lashon Hara in a day--then over the week
that will be 30 words of Lashon Hara. Over the year, the Chofetz Chaim
continues, this will aggregate 1,500 words of Lashon Hara. Over 60 years,
this will result in 80,000 words of Lashon Hara. Since Chazal (Avos 4:13)
teach that one who does an aveirah creates an accompanying kateigor
(prosecuting Malach)--one will have r’l created an astounding legion
of 80,000 mekatregim against him. This would occur if r’l one
is not careful with four or five words every day. Imagine, then, if one is
not careful with 15 or 20! On the other hand--if those very same words were
used as words of Torah, Tefillah or Chesed--in their place there would be
80,000 malochim who are saneigorim--who will eternally benefit the
one who created them. A little laxity could be a terrible thing--while just
a small amount of Mitzvos in their place can bring everlasting gain!”
-------------------------------------------------
AS WE WORK ON OUR BEIN ADAM
L’CHAVEIRO DURING THIS PERIOD,
one easy but important ‘habit’ we can develop is provided to us in the
Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (183:6): “When one sees someone involved in his work,
give him a bracha of ‘Tatzliach B’Ma’asecha--may you have success in
your endeavors!’
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RECOMMENDATIONS:
Set
forth below are some of the suggestions provided by a noted Mashgiach
in order to better appreciate the true feelings one should have during the
Nine Days:
1.
Study Sefer Nefesh HaChaim Sha’ar Beis Perakim 11 and 12.
2.
Study the Rambam’s Mishna Torah, at the end of Hilchos Melochim relating to
Biyas HaMoshiach--and what we are expecting when that happens.
3.
Have Kavannah for the meaning of the words when reciting Ahl Kein Nekaveh
three times a day.
The
Mashgiach teaches that it is absolutely essential that we heighten our
sensitivity, Kavannah and feeling to the realization of Churban, Galus and
Tza’ar HaShechina--and what will be gained if the world can achieve what
Hashem wants it to achieve--true normalcy, once and for all.
-----------------------------------------------------
TZIPISA LISHUA:
Rabbi
Heshy Kleinman, Shlita explains some of the basic parameters of Tzipisa
Lishua--Anticipating the Redemption. The term ‘tzipisa’ is especially
used by Chazal because it describes someone looking out in search of
something--such as someone standing on a mountain in anticipation of the
caravan with the life-sustaining supplies (Har Hatzofim has the same
root). It describes a state of real eagerness, something that one really
needs and has to have. On a more advanced level, it is really an
existential longing--as the longing of a parent, sibling or child who has
not seen their beloved relative in many years. As the feeling of what one
is lacking continues to grow, so too does the intensity of his lacking.
Rabbi Kleinman very importantly teaches that we can demonstrate our earnest
and true yearning not only in our Tefillos [as mentioned above] and in our
tears, but also by our conduct in the world that we live in. After all, our
yearning is for the Shechina to return and for us to be closer to It. We
can bring the Shechina into our lives--in this world--through Kiddush Shem
Shomayim, through the study of Torah, and through the care with which we
undertake and perform Mitzvos. If we can demonstrate to Hashem, and to
ourselves, that we want to be closer to the Shechina in the very world that
we live in--then Hashem will middah k’negged middah bring the Shechina
closer to us in a grand and eternal way--speedily and in our days.
Hakhel Note: Rabbi Kleinman’s compelling Sefer--especially for this time of
year-- Yearning with Fire (Artscroll), is on this very topic of
practical fulfillment of Tzipisa Lishua, in which he develops and
explains how we can do our part in this world in these the last
throngs of our Galus--and thereby once and for all not only be zoche to the
yeshua’s anticipation --but to its full and final fulfillment!
-----------------------------------------------------
VELIRUSHALAYIM IRECHA:
As
we have noted in the past, in his explanation of the Siddur (in the
monumental work HaRav Schwab on Prayer, published by Artscroll),
HaRav Schwab, Z’tl, asks why the brocha of “Velirushalayim Irecha”
begins with a Vav (“And”). What is the meaning of “And” here--to what is
the beginning of the bracha connecting? HaRav Schwab suggests that the Vav
alludes to the Yerushalayim Shel Ma’alah, where thousands, and perhaps
millions, of Tzadikim who hoped and prayed for the rebuilding of
Yerushalayim over the past 2,000 years now reside. When the time comes for
Yerushalayim to be rebuilt, these neshamos will experience it B’shamayim
together with the people who are physically experiencing the rebuilding here
on earth. Moreover, HaRav Schwab teaches, although we do not really
understand what it means at this time, Chazal teach that Hashem will return
to the Yerushalayim Shel Ma’alah only after He has returned to the
Yerushalayim Shel Matah, for He has been “absent” from the Yerushalayim Shel
Ma’alah since the Churban, as well. We are thus mispallel for Hashem to
return to both cities of Yerushalayim.
HaRav
Schwab concludes his explanation of the Bracha with the following comforting
words:
“Just
as a deep foundation must be placed in the ground before a very large
structure can rise, so, too, have the historical events of the Galus been
the foundation for the rebuilding of the future Yerushalayim. Our entire
Galus experience--and it is longer than we have hoped and thought it would
be--is the deep, dark, underground pit into which the foundation of the
future city of Yerushalayim is being placed. This can be compared to a
construction site of a large building, which is enclosed by a wall. If a
man manages to peek behind that wall, all he will see is a huge hole in the
ground for the foundation. The higher the planned structure, the deeper the
foundation must be. However, eventually the structure will begin rising
above the wall until it reaches its completion. Similarly, HaKadosh Baruch
Hu, the Boneh Yerushalayim, has been digging the foundations of the future
Yerushalayim ever since the Churban Bais HaMikdash, and the rebuilding
process has never ceased throughout the Galus. At the time of Bi’as
HaMoshiach, the structure will be completed.” May it be speedily and in our
days!
==============================
2 Menachem Av
REALITY CHECK:
If we take a moment to engage in a Reality Check we will note that two
months from today’s date will be the second day of Tishrei, the second day
Rosh Hashanah! Of course, another aspect of the Reality Check is that we
are in the Nine Days. Rather than being depressed or gloomy, we should
recognize the current daily situation as a series of
opportunities--opportunity after opportunity for growth and advancement. In
last week’s Haftarah, the Navi exhorted us with the words “Vayeilchu
Acharei HaHevel Vayehebalu--they went after nothingness, and they
became nothing.” (Yirmiyahu 2:5) If we can make the effort to recognize and
act upon opportunity after opportunity, we can convert nothingness into
something very, very huge and important. HaRav Avraham Davis, Shlita, (of
Metsudah Publications) said in the name of HaRav Yitzchak Hutner, Z’tl, that
if an adult would play ball like a child, he would be unfortunately viewed
as an adult playing like a child. However, if he would have continuously
developed his talents since childhood, he could even become a professional.
Lehavdil, the same is also true in everything that we do. It is up
to us to determine whether, as adults, we are just playing like children in
the way we learn, the way we daven, the way we speak, and the way we behave
towards others. In which direction are we moving--are we moving away from
nothingness, are we using our opportunities--are we trying to grow (up)?
Let’s learn from the Navi--and make something of ourselves. HaRav Avrohom
Chaim Feuer, Shlita, in a Shiur on the Three Weeks, taught that Hashem
leaves His palace during the Three Weeks looking for us--may He find us and
be happy with His find!
Hakhel
Note One: The time may now be right for us to buy a small notebook, and
write on the outside “Sefer HaTeshuva.” In there, one can jot down
the items he senses that he is doing wrong either on a consistent basis or
whenever he gets into this kind of situation or that kind of discussion--and
ultimately (after thinking about it, and trial and error) how he can fix
what he writes about. Similarly, he could write down where he may have not
acted honorably or befittingly (how did he show honor to the elderly person,
how did he eat that food or drink that drink). Writing this down is the
indication that one feels that it is important enough for him to deal with,
and is an important step in the improvement process. Each and every one of
us is far, far from nothingness, as Yirmiyahu teaches--for one has to travel
(Vayeilchu Acharei HaHevel) to get there. Our own
personal Sefer HaTeshuva will lead us farther and farther away from
that nothingness, and closer and closer to the highroad to greatness!
Hakhel
Note Two: HaRav Chaim Volozhiner’s teaching in the Sefer Nefesh HaChaim
regarding Titus HaRasha should especially reverberate within us during this
time of year. As many know, HaRav Chaim teaches that, unlike Titus’ action
of stabbing the Paroches, which was limited to Olam HaZeh and had no effects
in Shomayim--when a Jew sins in this world, it not only creates
after-effects and after-shocks in the person’s self and in the world in
general, but it creates reverberations in the upper worlds as well. This is
not meant to be allegorical. Although we cannot see it with our naked eye,
it is real, very real. We have the power to literally shake worlds for the
bad--or for the good. Let us wisely utilize our opportunities!
------------------------------------------------------
MERCY, MERCY:
Chazal (Shabbos 151B) teach that “Anyone who has mercy on others, HaKadosh
Baruch Hu will have mercy upon him, as the Pasuk says ‘...and He will give
you mercy and be merciful to you’“(Devorim 13:18). The two phrases contained
in the Pasuk quoted seem redundant--if Hashem gives us mercy--He is being
merciful to us, so what does the second phrase come to add? HaRav Pam, Z’TL,
explains that the Torah is teaching us that in order to be worthy of
Hashem’s mercy, we must act with mercy ourselves. Hashem therefore gives us
opportunities to act mercifully (“and He will give you mercy”). If we
succeed at these G-d given opportunities by acting mercifully to others,
then He, in turn, will be “merciful to you”. Mercy in our time is more than
necessary. The Chofetz Chaim, at the end of Sefer Ahavas Chesed, writes as
follows: “Nowadays we see with our own eyes that the attribute of strict
justice is increasing in strength each and every day in the form of many
types of sicknesses and strange types of death and there is a lack of
Hashem’s influence in the world. Also, we have reached a point that there is
not a day whose curses are not greater than the previous day’s. Therefore, a
person should try to increase his acts of Tzedaka and Chesed all the more,
and perhaps in that merit the strict justice will be overturned and the
world will become filled with Hashem’s mercy.” (Translation from The Laws of
Tzedeka and Ma’aser by Rabbi Shimon Taub (Artscroll) page 180).
With
the tzaros we are facing in Eretz Yisrael and worldwide, it behooves us to
feel, utilize and excel in the opportunities Hashem is surely giving us
daily. It is important for us to realize that it is not only the dropping of
a dollar into the Pushka, or the shiva visit that is important, but the
manner, the way, in which the act of mercy is performed. The Navi (Hoshea
10:12) writes, “Sow for yourselves charity and you will reap according to
the kindness.” There is a bold lesson here, for we all know that the act of
sowing pales in its significance to reaping--which is the goal of the
planting process. Yes, sowing is an absolute necessity in the food-making
process. But, if one sows for weeks and weeks from morning to night, and
very little rain falls, the crop will be ruined and all will be for naught,
or something close to it. So, too, the Navi teaches, the act of tzedaka--the
righteous act--is crucial, but the actual harvesting will be solely
dependent on the chesed which nurtures the act to a successful reaping.
Tzedaka with Sever Ponim Yofos, with a smile; chasing after the tzedaka
collector who was walking away from your front yard as you pulled up;
offering to help someone before they ask you for the favor or help; visiting
a mourner when it will be best for them, not for you; reading up on a
sickness or thinking about things that will cheer up a sick person before
going to visit; spending time to find the right tutor for your child; going
out of your way to make five phone calls to find a shidduch for one
particular single you have in mind.... The list can literally go on and on
and on. We must strive to infuse the Chesed opportunities we have--and that
we perform many times daily whether we know it or not--with pure, down to
earth, actual mercy.
As
Dovid HaMelech teaches (Tehillim 121:5) “Hashem is your shadow”--Hashem will
reflect your actions by shadowing them. Now, we all know that shadows cast
are much larger than the original image--our mercy, if it is strong enough
to cast that original shadow can result in a much more magnificent mercy
than was originally projected. We know what we have to do. We face the hard
part--we have to do it. But it is worth it--it is really worth it, so let’s
try.
PRACTICAL SUGGESTION: That next Chesed opportunity that Hashem gifts to
you--that you KNOW Hashem gifted to you--infuse it with the thought, with
the feeling, with the mercy, with the compassion, that you would expect from
Hashem Himself.
-------------------------------------------------------
FROM A READER:
Rabbi Daniel Glatstein, Shlita (Morah D’asra of Kehilas Ahavas Yisroel,
Cedarhurst, and Magid Shiur, Kollel Agra D’pirka, Kew Gardens Hills) points
out an interesting theme in Rashi’s first comment on each sefer in Chumash.
At the beginning of Devarim, Rashi informs us that each of the “place names”
mentioned are actually hints at the misdeeds of Bnei Yisrael in the Midbar,
but in order not to embarrass them, Moshe merely hints at each one. The
Maharal asks if we are concerned with the honor of Bnei Yisrael, then why
dwell on each of these at length later in Sefer Devarim? The Maharal learns
from this that if placed in the middle of the Sefer, it is not as damaging,
but to start a Sefer with a non-positive event is more negative. Similarly,
Sefer Bamidbar waits to discuss the story of Pesach Sheni (involving tumah
and not fulfilling the Korban Pesach on time) until later in the Sefer, the
ninth perek, although it occurred before the events described in the first
perek of Bamidbar. Rabbi Glatstein points out that, not only in Sefer
Devarim, is Hashem concerned with the honor of K’lal Yisrael, but we can see
in Rashi’s first comment on each Sefer the kavod and dearness accorded to
K’lal Yisrael. In Bereshis, Rashi first mentions the world being created in
K’lal Yisrael’s merit. In Shemos, Rashi points out Hashem counts the Bnei
Yisrael in order to show how dear they are to Him. In Vayikra, Rashi points
out that the word Vayikra is an expression of chibah,
dearness. In Bamidbar, Rashi says Hashem counted the Bnei Yisrael
mitoch chibasan. From this, we see Pesach D’vorecha Yair, how
one approaches a matter from the outset is crucial...and how dear K’lal
Yisrael is to Hashem!
==============================
1 Menachem Av
SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
WEEK 5--PARASHAS DEVORIM
Bli neder, at least one time today, consciously do the following:
Bein Adam LaMakom:
Among the first words of the Rema in Shulchan Aruch are Shivisi Hashem
L’negdi Samid…for one’s actions and business when he is ‘alone’ are not
the same as one who conducts himself in front of a great king…most certainly
when one is in the presence of the Great King HaKadosh Baruch Hu Whose
Presence fills the earth and Who stands and watches him. When sitting down
at one’s table or desk one should try to conduct himself for a few moments,
feeling that he is in the Presence of the Great King with the thought of
Shivisi Hashem L’negdi Samid.
Bein Adam L’Chaveiro:
Make a conscious effort not to ‘steal’ another’s sleep or time, by being
especially quiet, or by not engaging in needless conversation with him.
Bein Adam L’Atzmo:
Make an effort to treat your clothing with special respect--not throwing any
article down or across the table or room, if disposing of it--wrapping it
up, and in any event making sure that it is not stained or dirty.
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STARTS TODAY!
In our Sha’arei Teshuvah pre-Rosh Hashana calendar, Sha’ar Gimel
starts today! If you have not yet begun the Sefer--you may begin today with
Sha’ar Gimel, which contains the main body of the Sefer. We provide by the
following link
http://tinyurl.com/qcnq3u6
the calendar for you for the next two months--from Rosh Chodesh Av to
completion of the Sefer on Rosh Hashana.
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CLARIFICATION:
In our Bulletin of 24 Tammuz, we had referred to HaRav Yaakov Yosef, Z’tl,
as the only Chief Rabbi of New York City. We subsequently received
correspondence that Sephardic communities in New York have had their own
Chief Rabbis, as well.
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THE
MONTH OF AV:
The
Ben Ish Chai explains that one of the reasons that our month is called “Av”
is because it will be the Av, the Father, of a new joyous period which will
commence in Av, and continue for a long period thereafter. May it commence
this Av!
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TODAY--IN LAST WEEK’S PARASHA!
:
One of
the rare dates mentioned in the Torah is today’s date, the first day of Av
(in last week’s Parasha of Masei!) What happened on this date? It is the
day of the petira, the passing of Aharon HaKohen. Chazal teach that the
Ananei Kovod, the protective clouds of Glory, which surrounded us in the
desert (and will once again surround us in the future) were in the Zechus of
Aharon HaKohen (see Rashi on Bamidbar 33:40). Once the Ananei Kavod left
us, the initial reaction of the outside world was to attack us, as is
described in the Torah there (Bamidbar 33:40). What did Aharon HaKohen do
for which he merited the protective clouds both for himself and for the rest
of Bnei Yisrael? We may suggest the following: The Mishna in Avos (1:12)
teaches that he was an Oheiv Shalom V’Rodef Shalom- that he loved
peace and pursued it. The midah k’neged midah--the measure for
measure reward becomes very evident. Because Aharon made peace among
people, he merited peace being brought upon all of Klal Yisrael with the
Clouds of Glory. Indeed, Hillel in the aforementioned Mishna, enjoins us
all to “Be among Aharon’s students” in this regard--to learn the value of
peace among brothers.
PRACTICAL SUGGESTION: It is essential that we take the lessons of Aharon
HaKohen very much to heart. We may even posit that the petira of Aharon
HaKohen comes out at the beginning of the Nine Days to remind us that if we
could rid ourselves of machlokes, of causing pain to others, and of the need
quite to the contrary to love and pursue peace between and among ourselves,
we can go a long way to bring immediate and long lasting Yeshuos. Let us at
the very least focus on one or two people over the next few days and try to
promote a peaceful or more peaceful relationship with them. Peace brings
peace, for as Dovid HaMelech teaches in Tehillim (121:5)--“Hashem is your
Shadow.”
-------------------------------------------------------------
PESAKIM OF RAV SHMUEL KAMENETSKY, SHLITA ON THE NINE DAYS:
A. One
should not have ‘body work’ done on his car during the Nine Days, if its
purpose is to enhance the car’s appearance.
B. It
is permissible for a woman to wear her regular, everyday jewelry during the
Nine Days.
C. It
is best to be mechanech children to be ‘me’ma’ait BeSimcha’
during the Nine Days. For instance, they should not go to an amusement park
or build a clubhouse. Generally, one should also not make a ‘birthday party’
during the Nine Days--but if there is a specific situation one should ask a
Shaila. One should not plant flowers for beauty’s sake during the Nine
Days.
[Sefer Koveitz Halachos, by Rabbi Doniel Kleinman, Shlita]
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HAPPY
OF HEART:
Chazal teach us that once Av enters, we are to reduce the amount of our
joy. Many have pointed out that the context Chazal use, even in Av, is one
of joy. We are not instructed to “increase our mourning,” but to “decrease
our joy.” This thought fits in beautifully with the commentary of the
Tiferes Yisrael to last week’s Perek, Chapter 2 of Pirkei Avos: Rabban
Yochanan Ben Zakkai asks his five primary talmidim, “What is the proper way
to which a man should be “Yidbak”--to which he should cling?” The
first four primary talmidim each responded in his own way. Rebbi Elazar
then responded that one should cling to “a Lev Tov--a good heart.”
Rabban Yochanan then said to his students, “I prefer the words of Elazar to
your words, for your words are included in his words.” What is so
all-encompassing about the words “Lev Tov” that it per se includes
the other responses of Rabban Yochanan’s other four top students?! The
Tiferes Yisrael explains that the phrase “Lev Tov” means “Leebo
Tomid Sameach, U’mezuman L’Heitiv Lakol--that one’s frame of mind is a
happy one, and that he is ready to help everyone.” It is this middah that
Rabban Yochanan and Rabbi Elazar instruct us is so primary and
all-encompassing. Accordingly, even in these days of Av, and even as we
approach Tisha B’Av, we should not forget these six Hebrew words as the
attitude and approach to life that our Sages teach us to cling to. We
especially note that the Hebrew word “Yidbak” (cling) is utilized by
Chazal--it is not simply a nice approach or a good thing, but something we
should not deviate from--but practice sticking to--as if it were with glue
or honey. “Leebo Tomid Sameach U’Mezuman L’Heitiv Lakol” let us live
with these precious by-words, even in these difficult times.
---------------------------------------------------
IT IS
WAR AGAINST THE YETZER HARA:
Rabbi Moshe Meir Weiss, Shlita, makes the following very significant points
about the Yetzer Hara and how to most effectively deal with it:
1.
Chazal teach that a person should be margiz his Yetzer HaTov over his
Yetzer Hara. The term margiz is intended to emphasize that we must
excite ourselves, and act passionately against the Yetzer Hara. We cannot
live on cruise control, nor rely on our ‘good instincts’.
2.
Just as a nurse in a hospital, dealing with all kinds of illnesses, must be
extremely careful to protect her own health--and cannot say: “No, nothing
will happen to me”--so too, must a person be so careful to protect his
spiritual health by using recognized protective measures. These include the
study of Torah, and sincere Tefillos to Hashem to save you from the Yetzer
Hara’s deceit and trickery (‘V’Hatzileini HaYom U’vechol Yom MeYetzer
Hara’).
3. A
person must realize that the war is a life-long one--and it is a person’s
job to win the battles--which take place in different situations and
events--on a daily basis.
4. Why
is the Yetzer Hara compared to a zevuv--a fly, and not a hornet,
scorpion or rattlesnake? It may be because it is only the fly that keeps on
coming back--no matter how many times you brush it away!
Hakhel
Note: Some add that the fly has no real power to hurt the person--it only
annoys and distracts, if the person allows himself to be annoyed and
distracted. This too is true of the Yetzer Hara.
5. Of
special importance to the Torah Jew is that Chazal teach that if a person
repeats an aveirah, it becomes like a heter to him. What does this
mean? It means that it doesn’t overly bother a person if he can go through
an entire davening without thinking much about Hashem, if he recites a
bracha as a formula by rote before being allowed to put something in his
mouth, if he gets angry ‘once in a while’, if he misses a Seder ‘only once
every few weeks’, or if he is not overly concerned about negative facial
expressions, disturbing someone’s sleep, or saying something that is hurtful
in a discreet way.
6.
Hashem created the Yetzer Hara with only one purpose in mind--for us to
defeat it--at each and every turn!
==============================
27 Tammuz
IMPORTANT REMINDER FOR THE SHABBOS LEINING:
The Sefer Talelei Oros relates that on Parashas Masei in the last
year of his life, a Minyan was convened for the Brisker Rav in his
apartment, and he stayed in his bedroom. During the leining of the
boundaries of Eretz Yisrael, the Ba’al Kriyah read the location of ‘Tzeena’
(Bamidbar 34:4) with the accent on the second syllable as ‘TzeeNAH’.
Suddenly a loud voice was heard calling from the Rav’s room exclaiming ‘TZEEna’--with
emphasis on the ‘Tzee’. He explained that when one places the emphasis on
the first syllable of ‘Tzee’, the meaning of the word is ‘L’Tzeen’, to Tzeen,
which is what the Torah means. The Ba’al Kriyah though, by putting the
emphasis on the last syllable, changed its meaning to TzeeNAH, which may or
may not have been the name of a place at all, and has its own meaning
related to the word shield (as in the Pasuk “Tzeena VeSocheira Amito”).
----------------------------------------------
WE CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV
SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
The following Halachos are P’sakim of HaRav
Elyashiv, Z’tl, whose 5th Yahrzeit is tomorrow, which are
excerpted from the monumental work, Sefer Ashrei HaIsh (Hebrew)
published by HaRav Yechezkel Feinhandler:
A. If
one must search for an article of clothing among articles of clothing, and
one picks out the wrong article, he should put it back into the mixture--for
when it comes to Borer in clothing, one can rely on the Maharshag, who rules
that you can be lenient in this area.
B.
One may walk on a wet mat in front of the house, and it is not considered
Sechita. Similarly, one may walk with socks which are wet from rain--for it
is a Pesik Reisha Delo Neicha Lai, not a the Derech of Sechita, and for
other reasons as well.
C.
One should not drink water that has melted from ice, unless one has no other
water. However, if one has a cup of water and ice inside it, one may shake
the cup so that the ice will melt more quickly, because it is already mixed
with water.
D.
One who follows the opinion that it is forbidden to open bottle caps on
Shabbos cannot ask a person who does open caps to open the bottle for him.
If the bottle was already opened, it would be permissible to drink from
it--for the one who opened it relied on his Rav who permits it, and so there
is no reason to penalize anyone. Additionally, since one could have opened
the bottle in a permissible manner, this is not considered as if one is
obtaining benefit from a Ma’aseh Shabbos.
E. An
Uvdah DeChol may be defined as either something that appears to be a
Melacha, or something that involves a Tircha Merubah--excess effort.
F. A
Ba’al Teshuva had a son, and the Bris was scheduled for Shabbos. The Ba’al
Teshuva’s father told him that if he would make him Sandek, he would observe
Shabbos that week. The Ba’al Teshuva wanted a Gadol to be the Sandek.
HaRav Elyashiv ruled that it was “Poshut” that the grandfather should be the
Sandek, in order to prevent him from Chilul Shabbos for one week.
G.
If one finds something on Shabbos which is not Muktzah, he can be zoche in
the metzia on Shabbos, because it is Hefker and so there is no prohibition
of Maseh Umatan, since it belongs to no one.
H.
One may forgive a debt on Shabbos, because it is not considered a Ma’aseh
Kinyan. Similarly, one can be Mafkir an object on Shabbos if there is a
purpose in doing so (such as using a Kli which has not been Toiveled).
I.
When crossing the street on Shabbos, one may encounter a car which must stop
or beep because of you. One need not consciously avoid this, such as by
crossing only when there are no cars. However, one should not intentionally
stand in the street with a car coming, which will result in the driver doing
a Melacha DeOraysa.
J.
If a person is Mechalel Shabbos BeShogeig, he must bring a Korban Chatas.
Until the Bais HaMikdash is rebuilt, one should read the Parashas Chatas
(Vayikrah 4:27-35 and 6:17-23) and should make an effort to understand the
way in which the Korban was brought. If one was Mechalel Shabbos BeShogeig
more than once, he should recite the Parasha separately for each time that
he is aware of.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
YAHRZEIT OF
HARAV SHLOMO GANZFRIED, Z’TL:
Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Yomi is one of the many daily Torah learning programs
in the world today. The Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, by Rabbi Shlomo
Ganzfried, Z’tl (whose Yahrzeit is tomorrow), is the
classic compendium of Halacha, and it covers all areas of Halacha, not just
the Orach Chaim section. Through this easy system of studying for 5 - 10
minutes a day, as provided on the
www.kitzuryomi.org website, you will complete the entire sefer in only
one year. In addition, you will learn the laws of each Yom Tov or season in
its proper time.
----------------------------------------------------------
YAHRZEIT OF HARAV CHAIM FRIEDLANDER, Z’TL:
Tomorrow is the 31st Yahrzeit of HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, the
Mashgiach of Ponovezh, known as the Sifsei Chaim, whose pure and
potent lessons in all areas of Torah have influenced thousands upon
thousands throughout the world. We provide below several points and
pointers of HaRav Friedlander, Z’tl, relating to the Bain HaMetzarim period
we are in, from the Sefer Sifsei Chaim (Middos V’Avodas Hashem I, p.
167 and Mo’adim 3, p.247-395):
A. The Galus is not our constant natural state. Every day that we
remain in Galus, we face a new day of unnatural living. We are like
a people on medicine. If we must stay on medication for a long time, the
longer the stay, the more potentially detrimental it is. Chazal teach that
what brought us into this unnatural state is Sinas Chinam. One must
therefore strive daily to battle Sinas Chinam in every way that he
can. It is important for one daily to show a pleasant countenance to one’s
fellow, greet another with a smile and with warmth, and show love and
concern. Hakhel Note: This is the source of our Sever Panim Yafos
project!
B. How can we further promote Ahavas Chinam? HaRav Friedlander
suggests that when meeting a person for the first time [or for the first
time in a long time] the only thing one look for when meeting a person is
the positive-- Dan LeChaf Zechus--judging the person in front of
us only in a favorable light. In this way, the first questions--Why does he
look like this? Why does he speak like that? Why does he act in that
way?--are all answered! Furthermore, with this initial instinct, the
Sifsei Chaim writes, we will personally grow immeasurably--for we will
not only fulfill the Mitzvos of V’Ahavta L’Reiacha Kamocha and
B’Tzedek Tishpot Amisecha, but we will grow in the most essential Middos
of not being haughty and looking down at other people, and concomitantly
being humble--recognizing that every man is simply the product of his
Hashgacha Pratis and the specific and particular tests, challenges, wisdom,
expertise and skill granted to him by Hashem. If one can seriously master
the skill to be Dan LeChaf Zechus--every time one encounters another
person--he will be improving himself immeasurably!
C. Chazal (Sanhedrin 96B) say about Titus HaRasha that “Heichla Kalyah
Kalis--you burned a burnt building.” This means that the sins of K’lal
Yisrael destroyed the Beis Hamikdash in Shomayim. Because the upper Beis
HaMikdash was destroyed, the Hashra’as HaShechina--Hashem’s Hashgacha
could no longer be present in the Beis HaMikdash below. When the inner Beis
HaMikdash is destroyed, then there is no place for the Beis HaMikdash in the
outside world below.
D. With the removal of the Shechinah and the Churban HaMikdash, Hashem
became largely concealed in this world. Even though we all have flashes of
a sense of Hashgacha Pratis here and there--the clear and constant presence
of the Shechinah being permanently with us is lacking to an unfathomable
degree. Hakhel Note: It is said that HaRav Mordechai Gifter, Z’tl, asked
some students who visited Eretz Yisrael where they felt more emotional--at
the Kosel or at Kever Rochel. The students said that truthfully they felt a
greater connection at Kever Rochel. HaRav Gifter told them: “Let me
explain why. You do not know what Churban is--so you feel closer to your
Mama Rochel. I was in Telz, so I know what Churban is--the Churban of
Telz. When I go to the Kosel I feel a greater connection--I feel the
powerful emptiness and agony of spiritual and physical destruction.”
E. Chazal (Chagiga 13B) teach that before the Churban the Malochim in
Shomayim had six wings, and that after the destruction of the Beis HaMikdash
the two middle wings were removed, and they were left with four. The G’ra
explains that the six wings correspond to the six words of “Baruch Shem
Kevod Malchuso LeOlam Va’ed”. The two wings that were thus removed were
Kevod Malchuso--as Hashem’s revealed presence in the world has been
covered. This is why we daven that: “Galei Kevod Malchusecha
Aleinu--please reveal the Kevod Malchuso once again!”
Hakhel Note: When reciting Boruch Shem at least twice daily, let us put
particular feeling into the words of Kevod Malchuso!
F. The Beis HaMikdash was also the point that united all of K’lal Yisrael
in an Avodas HaTzibbur. The daily Karbanos, the special Mussafim--even the
Avodah on Yom Kippur which brought a Kapparah for every individual--were all
based on our unity as one whole. In Galus, much of what we do is ‘on our
own’. Let us look at the difference: When a person opens up a store by
himself, his profits result only from those customers that come in. On the
other hand, if one invests his money in a large consortium of stores, his
profits have the potential to multiply many times over. The Beis Hamikdash
was our spiritual consortium. Moreover, because of our achdus, we
all joined together as one--sharing the profits of each other together as
well!
G. One significant way in which one can demonstrate his true desire for
Kevod Shomayim to return to the world is to recite with focus and Kavannah:
“Amen, Yehei Shemei Rabba Mevarach LeAlam U’LeAlmei Olmayah--may
Hashem’s Great Name be blessed forever and ever.” Indeed, we have so many
opportunities during the day such as these moments to re-set our
perspectives and realize what is important--we just have to think clearly
and exercise the opportunities!”
H. The Three Week period is especially designated for K’lal Yisrael to be
Misabel on Yerushalayim. This is because during this period we can
move to rectify that which we have lost in a more direct way than the rest
of the year. Now is the time when we can sense to a greater extent that
Hashem is out of His palace--in Galus. When a person senses this--he, in
his Galus draws closer to Hashem in His Galus.
I. The Aveilus that we to feel is not only a Tza’ar on what we had
and lost--but a desire to re-instill within us the ties and connections to
the Beis Hamikdash and the Hashra’as HaShechina that we once had. It is a
feeling of emptiness and loneliness, recognizing that the daily miracles
that inspired us in the Beis HaMikdash, the Kadshim that we ate
which was absorbed into our very being and fiber as man, our daily
association with men of Ruach HaKodesh are all lacking--and that, in fact,
we are not ‘big people’, but only shadows of the people that once lived--and
who will be reborn with the Third Beis HaMikdash.
J. In one’s davening for Geulah, he can accomplish what his neighbor
standing literally right next to him cannot. We each are like separate
bricks building the same building. If one brick is left out, then it has to
be made up in some other way, which could take longer or different
planning. In all events, one should strive to daven for the incredible
Tza’ar HaShechina as it resides in such a troubled and such an
incomplete world.
K. It may very well be that, because we are so far removed from the
Kedusha and Tahara of 1,000 years ago, and certainly that of
2,000 years ago and 3,000 years ago--it becomes easier and easier for
us to truly bring the Geulah. Indeed, in the low level of the world around
us may rest the secret of our Yeshuah--we need not reach the heights of the
previous generations. Instead, we simply need to use this time to once and
for all recognize the emptiness and void of our surroundings--no matter how
rich and complete they may appear--and look to a repaired, rebuilt and
renewed world--a world that will exist forever Lifnei Hashem--with
each man’s potential realized, and each person’s life full and complete!
----------------------------------------------------------
POINTS
AND POINTERS ON THIS WEEK’S PARASHIOS OF MATOS AND MASEI:
A. In
this week’s Parasha of Matos, we learn about the importance of making
promises and the dangers involved in breaking them. Indeed, the Torah goes
out of its way to add that if a person merely thinks they are breaking their
promise, even if he is not in fact doing so, he still requires a “V’Hashem
Yislach Lah”--Hashem’s direct forgiveness--a phrase not often mentioned
in the Torah. Accordingly, while we learn from many instances in last
week’s large Parasha how careful we have to be about our speech in general,
we learn in particular how vigilant one must be about using words like
“promise,” “commit,” “swear,” or “guarantee,” all of which indicate an
absolute commitment to act in a particular way. In the Sefer Derech
Sicha, HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, rules that it is not sufficient to
respond on a wedding or bar mitzvah invitation that you are coming “Im
Yirtze Hashem”--one must specifically add the words “Bli Neder”. He
adds that if one stated that he was coming to a simcha (without saying bli
neder) and could not attend, he should ask mechila from the baal hasimcha.
Remember--Hashem holds us to a gold standard--because we are his gold!
B. From a reader: “Regarding the Parasha of Nedarim--where the
Parasha provides that one can take something otherwise permissible to him,
and promise not to eat it or use it--how could it be that a mortal being can
have the power to actually change or convert something that is Muttar
(permissible) from the Torah’s (Hashem’s) perspective to become Assur
(forbidden)? The Sefer Nesivos Sholom explains (based upon Rabbeinu
Yonah in Avos) that a mouth is a Kli Sharais--a holy utensil. Just as a Kli
Sharais in the Beis HaMikdash is Mekadesh--sanctifies--what you put into it
and, accordingly, everything that is taken out of it is Kadosh, so, too, are
the words that come out of your mouth Kadosh!” Hakhel Note: Defiling a Kli
Sharais is a horrible act--while bringing more and more Kedusha to it so
beautifully fulfills its purpose!
C. The
Torah records that “Elef LeMateh, Elef LeMateh--or “1,000 soldiers,
1,000 soldiers” were to be taken from each Shevet to do battle with Midyan.
Why does the Torah phrase it as “1,000 soldiers, 1,000 soldiers”--and not
simply as “2,000 soldiers”? It is because 1,000 soldiers actually went to
war, and the other 1,000 were enlisted to daven for victory. HaRav
Yechezkel Levenstein, Z’tl, teaches that the 1,000
who were davening did not stay behind--but actually accompanied the fighting
soldiers to battle, so that the soldiers would understand that it was not
their military prowess (‘Kochi VeOtzem Yadi’) that was the basis of
their victory--but rather it was Hashem Who was the Source of
victory--through our Tefillos.
Hakhel Note:
We emphasize that it is not only the soldiers and generals who should be
aware of the singular power of our Tefillos, but it is we ourselves
who must know and understand that when we pray tefillos such as “Re’eih
VeAnyeinu”, “VeLirushalayim Irecha”, “Es Tzemach”, “Shema
Koleinu”, and the like, with sincerity of heart, we are fighting--and
defeating-- those who mean us harm from Kuwait to North Korea, and from Iran
to the United States. Incredibly, Chazal teach that Nevuchadnezzar did not
allow the Jewish people to rest upon exiling them, until they got to Bavel
(“Al Naharos Bavel Sham Yashavnu…”) because he was fearful of their
ability to wholly reverse the entire earth-shattering decree against them by
simply turning and returning to Hashem. Let us not lose the opportunities
that the soldiers in battle were made aware of, that Nevuchadnezzar knew
about, and that has been a recurrent theme of our existence since the days
of Yetzias Mitzrayim. Let us take out the time in these days to cry out to
Hashem--as HaRav Leib Chasman, Z’tl, teaches “KeSheko’eiv Zoakim--when
one is in pain, he cries out.” Together we can turn this period from a time
of nuclear armament to nuclear disarmament, from a time of swords into a
time of plowshares, from a time of terror to a time of love and peace, from
a time of mourning over the Galus to celebrating the Geulah! This is
Hashem’s World and no one else’s--we all know it--now is the time to feel
it--and to meaningfully express it!
D.
When Moshe Rabbeinu becomes upset at the officers who returned from the
battle with Midyan, Chazal teach that he was “Bah LiChlal Ka’as--he
came within the boundaries of Ka’as” and lost out as a result (See Rashi,
Bamidar 31:21). HaRav Yecheskel Levenstein, Z’tl, explains that he did not
need to actually get angry. It was simply allowing himself to come within
the boundaries of Ka’as that prevented Moshe from becoming the one who would
teach the army the laws of Kashering Kaylim as set forth in the Parasha.
From this, HaRav Levenstein teaches, we learn that it is insufficient that
one prevent his anger from exploding when he feels that it is about to
erupt. Rather, one must not allow himself those initial thoughts and the
knee-jerk first reactions which egg-on the upset feelings and the anger--for
even those initial thoughts and reactions--even without the anger spell
following--mean real trouble down the line. We must not only
avoid “Bah L’Ka’as”, we must also avoid the “Bah LiChlal Ka’as.” As we
work on improving ourselves and our relationships with others during this
important period--let us be sure to catch ourselves early and on time-- to
avoid the “LiChlal Ka’as”--so important to our character and to our
life!
E.
Perhaps the most famous words in this week’s Parasha of Matos (32:22) are “V’Heyisem
Nekiyim MeiHashem U’MeiYisrael--and you shall be clean in that which you
do both to Hashem and to K’lal Yisrael”. Especially in these dangerous and
trying times--let us be above all suspicion and question in all of our
thoughts and all of our deeds!
F.
HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, notes that the word ‘Rotzeiach’ is
mentioned exactly 17 times in the Parasha of Ir Miklat--corresponding
exactly to the 17 times in Tanach in which a murder was
committed--commencing with the murder of Hevel by Kayin, and ending with the
murder of Gedaliah Ben Achikam by Yishmael Ben Nesanya. The lesson: We must
really appreciate how exact and exacting the Torah is with each and every
one of its words.
G.
At the
beginning of Parashas Masei, Rashi teaches us that all of the travels of
Bnei Yisrael are listed in the Parasha to show us the great Chesed of Hashem,
in that the Bnei Yisrael had to travel only 20 times in 38 years, and not
twice every month or even twice a year. The Luach Bnei Yaakov
provides a fascinating insight here: What does Rashi mean by the “Chesed”
provided in moving only 20 times in 38 years? Would anyone like to move his
home 20 times in 38 years? If one has to move every four or five years, it
is considered burdensome. People don’t like to move even once in ten years.
The Luach answers that Rashi is providing us with a great lesson. We
have to keep things in perspective. In truth, it could have been so much
worse--we could have been required to move in the Midbar 60, 70, or even 100
times during the 40-year period. Yes, it could have been much, much worse.
A person has to look at the positive, and not focus on the negative. Look
at all of our daily Chasodim which you receive, not at the Chasodim that you
want to receive (which may or may not be best for the tachlis of your
neshama in this world). When saying the words in Modim “V’haMerachem Ki
Lo Samu Chasodecha--and the Compassionate One for Your kindnesses never
end” think of several kindnesses you recently experienced, and several
kindnesses that you receive “as a matter of course” every day, day-in and
day-out. Hakhel Note: HaRav Dessler, Z’tl, adds an additional note with
respect to the Mas’aos themselves. The travels at that time very much
relate to the travels in the length of our Galus today. Ultimately, they
served their purpose, for they got us to our ultimate destination. We, too,
in our exile after exile, in our move after move after move should also
recognize that they will all lead to a great--and this time,
permanent--dwelling place with the Shechinah!
----------------------------------------------------------
SUNDAY NIGHT IS YOM KIPPUR KOTON: The following is excerpted from
The Sefer Aleinu L’Shabeiach by HaRav Yitzchak Zilberstein, Shlita,
and written by Rabbi Moshe Zoren (Artscroll): “The Chofetz Chaim was once
speaking to someone about the importance of Yom Kippur Katan and the prayer
service of that day. But the person replied that he was a chassid of a
well-known Rebbe, who did not place much emphasis on Yom Kippur Katan. “Let
me tell you a story that I saw with my own eyes,” the Chofetz Chaim then
told him. “Some time ago, I was traveling by train from Russia to Warsaw.
Near me was an empty seat, and when I saw another Jew board the train, I
invited him to sit near me in that seat. When he sat down, I asked him
where he was heading, and he replied that he was heading to Warsaw.
“Several stops later, I noticed that he was preparing to get off the train,
even though it was still a long way to Warsaw. ‘Why are you getting off
now?’ I asked him.”The man answered, ‘I am a pauper, and 1did not have
enough money to buy a ticket to Warsaw. 1therefore bought a ticket that is
valid until this station. 1will leave the train here and collect charity,
until 1 have enough money to buy a ticket to take me a few more stops. I
will continue to do this until 1arrive at my destination.” The Chofetz Chaim
then turned to the chassid and said, “Your Rebbe is a wealthy man, in the
spiritual sense, and he can therefore afford to ‘travel’ the entire distance
from one Yom Kippur until the next in one journey. His spiritual reservoirs
are so full of holiness and fear of Heaven that he does not need to ‘stop’
on the way. “Other people, however, have to get off the train at the stops
along the way, and observe a Yom Kippur Katan every Erev Rosh Chodesh.”
==============================
26 Tammuz
FROM A READER: JUST IN TIME FOR THE NINE DAYS - HOW TO HASTEN THE GEULAH
This coming Monday will be Rosh Chodesh Av, the beginning of the Nine Days. A
new round of Middos Challenges will
begin this Sunday, focusing on Galus and Geulah.
What
does Hashem want us to be thinking about during this intense period of
mourning for the Beis Hamikdash? How can we make sure to grow in the way
Hashem wants us to grow? Join this weekly email list to find out.
Middos Challenges is a
FREE weekly email that offers tips and deep insights into mastering our middos.
To sign up for these FREE weekly emails,
click here
or use this link --
http://tinyurl.com/jky4sor . To see all past emails, click
here or use this link --
http://www.torahdesigns.com/middos-challenges-archive/
.
For more information, email MiddosChallenges@gmail.com
----------------------------------------------------------
START TODAY!
If you
start Mishnayos Middos TODAY and learn just three Mishnayos a
day--you will finish learning many important Inyanim relating to the Beis
HaMikdash contained in Mishnayos Middos--on Erev Tisha B’Av! May they all be
practical Halacha L’Ma’aseh for us very soon! Join today!
----------------------------------------------------------
CONTINUING THIS MOTZA’EI SHABBOS! Hakhel, in conjunction with the Chofetz Chaim Heritage
Foundation, will be continuing with its free Motza’ei Shabbos Torah Video
Series in Flatbush, this Motza’ei Shabbos, July 22nd,
and continuing through the summer. The Series is part of a joint effort
with over 70 communities and colonies throughout the United States and
Canada. This week’s Shiur will be What is Sholom Bayis? by Rabbi
Leib Keleman and Rabbi Fishel Schachter--and will begin at
10:15P.M. Host Location: Agudath Israel Bais
Binyomin, 2913 Avenue L. Free Admission, for Men and Women. For more
information please see the following link
http://tinyurl.com/y76vqxdc
------------------------------------------
SUMMER ABOVE THE EQUATOR!
Summer
is a time when one leaves at some time and in some way his regular routine
and course of events and travels to new places, does new things, meets new
people, and may even eat new foods, and ‘try this’ or ‘try that’. However,
it is extremely urgent for one to recognize that summer is not intended to
be a time of laxity, or a time ‘when Hashem understands’ that we are more
prone to sin or to acting in a lighter manner than we would the rest of the
year. The Yetzer Hara, is, of course, happy to see when one picks up a
kula here and does an unexpected aveirah there in the
summer--because he can then argue that the individual really is generally
not so good--and it is just because he is in the habit of doing all
of those Mitzvos during the rest of the year that he does them. The Yetzer
Hatov therefore beckons us--please strengthen yourselves, so that you rise
to the occasion of the summer months. It is, in fact, in the Three Weeks
of summer that we pine spiritually for the Third Beis HaMikdash to
come--from nowhere else other than to drop from Shomayim itself--and for it
to rest among us. Let us be realistic, let us be clear. In two months from
now it will be only a few days before Rosh Hashana. We will be looking back
at our accomplishments, or r’l our failings over the summer. Two
months is a very short time. We all know that Chacham Ainav B’Rosho--the
wise person’s eyes are not directed at this desire or that one--but look
into the future and realize that in one’s decisions it is literally eternity
at stake. Let us bli neder make the commitment not to fall, even
‘just here’ or ‘just there’--but to remain true and steadfast to who we
are--whether it be winter, summer, spring--or summer. In two months let us
look back at the successes of our summer and kvell--not only in what
we accomplished for ourselves--but even more so at the great Simcha that we
have brought to our Father and Maker--fulfilling our purpose in creation!
------------------------------------------------
ONE’S OWN LITTLE CHASUNA!
During
the Three Weeks, we do not make or attend chasunas, may this be soon
reversed and the Bais HaMikdash rebuilt speedily and in our days. We would
like to remind you, however, that you can experience some aspect of a
wedding while eating a regular weekday meal in your own home. The Mishna
Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 170, Seif Katan 45) brings from the
Shelah HaKadosh that one should be glad of heart at all of his meals,
whether large or small, and eat “b’simcha” in happiness [reflecting upon all
of the goodness from Hashem, that the simple meal involves]. Moreover, the
Mishna Berurah continues, if one eats and drinks in a healthy manner, with
the purpose of energizing his body for the sake of his soul, then his
Seudah, his meal, is actually L’Halacha, deemed a “Seudas Mitzvah.” Thus,
just as at a wedding one is happy and partakes in a Seudas Mitzvah, one can
make his own little “chasunah” at home at every meal!
-------------------------------------------
WANTING TO HONOR THE KING:
The following wonderful Mashal is provided by Rabbi Hillel Litwack, Shlita
in his work The Amen Response: “A great and joyous event! The king
actually visits the city, and everyone lining the streets is shouting in
unison “Yechi HaMelech”, “Yechi HaMelech”--Long live the king, as the king
and his entourage pass through the streets .There was one person, though,
who threw a small rock at the king’s carriage, and it actually landed near
the king’s feet. The Secret Service immediately investigated, and without
much effort found a young Jewish boy to be the culprit. The audacity! They
wanted to execute the boy right then and there on the spot, but the
witnesses standing there said that the boy had been shouting “Yechi HaMelech”
in sincerity, together with everyone else. “He must have thrown the stone
because that is what boys like to do when they are happy and playful. He
obviously meant to hurt no one.” The Secret Service explained what had
happened to the king, and he was exonerated, with a stern warning to ask
adults how one should behave in the king’s presence. That is the Mashal. The
Nimshal is that one who answers: “Ámen, Yehei Shemai Rabbah” with
sincerity--with his Koach--Kavana and/or forcefully, demonstrates that he
very much wants to honor the King, and the acts he may have done which
appeared to dishonor the King were simply childish acts--like the child
throwing the stone. For this, he will be exonerated--but he must remember
that he is an adult and endeavor to behave accordingly!”
-------------------------------------------
ONE
PERSON CAN’T FIGHT!
The Chofetz Chaim notes that if one is subjected
to yelling, screaming, put-down and the like, and does not answer back but
instead keeps his mouth closed--he has created an extremely effective method
of reversing the entire situation. The person who is yelling or otherwise
engaging in derisive behavior will be forced to stop--because at some point
he simply cannot go on and on and on. A few words of retort or explanation
here or there could keep the matter going for a very long time--but with no
response at all, the one person--simply can’t fight on his own!
----------------------------------------------------------
AN IMPORTANT STUDY! A
student of human nature will notice that a clothier will look first at a
person’s clothes, an optician will look first at a person’s glasses, a
hatter will look first at a person’s hat, a shoemaker will look first at a
person’s shoes…. What should the Torah Jew look for when first meeting a
person? The Sefer Sifsei Chaim (Middos V’Avodas Hashem I, p. 167)
suggests that the first thing we look for is the positive only--
Dan LeChaf Zechus--judging the person in front of us only in a favorable
light. In this way, the first questions--Why does he look like this? Why
does he speak like that? Why does he act in that way?--are all answered!
Furthermore, with this initial instinct, the Sifsei Chaim writes, we
will personally grow immeasurably--for we will not only fulfill the Mitzvos
of V’Ahavta L’Reiacha Kamocha and B’Tzedek Tishpot Amisecha,
but we will grow in the most essential Middos of not being haughty and
looking down at other people, and concomitantly being humble--recognizing
that every man is simply the product of his Hashgacha Pratis and the
specific and particular tests, challenges, wisdom, expertise and skill
granted to him by Hashem. If one can seriously master the skill to be
Dan LeChaf Zechus--he will be greater than the clothier, the optician,
the hatter, the shoemaker…because every time one encounters another
person--he will be improving himself immeasurably!
-------------------------------------------
A
GREAT CHESED--ESPECIALLY AT THIS TIME! Shlomo
HaMelech, the wisest of all men, teaches in Mishlei (15:30) that “Shmuah
Tovah Tidashein Atzem--good news fattens the bone.” One would think
that only the ear, or perhaps the brain, would rejoice with good news--but
in truth, Shlomo HaMelech advises us--the good news has a much greater
impact on one’s body--even to the extent of fattening the bone. As many may
know, this teaching is not allegory--but was used by Rebbi Yochanan Ben
Zakkai in explaining to Aspasyanus why he could not put on his shoe--for his
foot had swelled after he learned that he had become emperor of Rome! (Gitten
56B). Shlomo HaMelech is thus teaching us all a very practical lesson:
One should try his best to relay good news to others when one hears of
it. By doing so, one does not only demonstrate a refined level of
V’Ahavta L’Reiacha Kamocha--feeling so good about someone else’s tiding
that he relates it to others--but one also performs a tremendous Chesed--as
he can very well make the person whom he is relating it to feel good--not
only in mind--but in body as well! A Chesed many times over!
==============================
25 Tammuz
THE YAHRTZEIT OF THE HARAV MEIR MAI’APTA: As we noted yesterday, today, 25 Tammuz, is
the Yahrtzeit of the HaRav Meir Mai’Apta, the Ba’al Ohr LaShamayim. A
reader has provided us with a beautiful copy of the Tefillah that the Ba’al
Ohr LaShamayim composed, which would most certainly be appropriate to recite
on his Yahrtzeit.
The tefillah is available by clicking here. Also at the
following link:
http://www.hakhel.info/archivesPublicService/OhrLaShamayimTefillah.pdf
-------------------------------------------
OHR HATESHUVAH:
Rabbeinu Yonah in the Sha’arei Teshuvah (2:8) provides the following
especially moving direction and advice--which should speak to each and every
one of us: “There are many men from whom the light of repentance is
withheld, for they are righteous and pure in their eyes and give no thought
to the correction of their deeds. They consider their actions proper
although they sin greatly to G-d. Is it not written, ‘For there is not a
righteous man upon the earth, that does only good and does not sin?’ (Koheles
7:20). Such men, in that they hold transgressions lightly, will neither
sense nor understand them; and if they are apprised of their sins, they will
afterwards forget about them. They are like a sick man who is unaware of his
illness and gives no thought to curing himself, so that he grows constantly
worse and can no longer be cured. They are sometimes brought to this pass
through their shortness of understanding. They do not come to inquire of G-d
and do not desire a knowledge of His ways, and, therefore, do not pay
faithful attendance upon the doors of scholars and disciples, as it said. ‘A
scorner does not want to be reproved; he will not go to the wise’ (Mishlei
15:12).”
Hakhel Note: Perhaps we can identify at least one way in which we consider
ourselves ‘self-righteous’--and determine how we will improve in that
very area. Teshuvah Bechol Yom!
-------------------------------------------
HALACHIC PYRAMID:
One of the most successful marketing concepts in our time is the ‘legal
pyramid’, in which sales representatives find other sales representatives
who find other sales representatives to find clients for different products
and industries (from cosmetics to energy services). Each person in the chain
then earns something on the sale of the product or service to the ultimate
consumer. Each sales representative in the chain also finds his own clients,
thereby producing additional revenues to the sales rep above him. We
should take the dugma into our spiritual lives as well. For instance,
if one performs a Chesed to someone who will then be able to perform a
Chesed to another, who in turn will be able to do a Mitzvah--then the
possibly long chain of Mitzvah events started with the original act of
Chesed. A wise person should consider the further ramifications of his
positive deed. Another example would be starting to learn with a chavrusah a
few minutes before davening--another two people, or perhaps four or six
might get the same idea…and perhaps someone will even start a Shiur for
others before the Minyan as well. The possibilities are precious and
boundless--how about asking a person to answer ‘Amen’ to your bracha over
the food that you are about to eat? His ‘Amen’ will be a beautiful statement
of pure Emunah--because he is not even partaking of the food--and he may in
turn ask somebody to do the same when the time comes for him to eat as well!
As we anxiously await the completion of the Third Beis HaMikdash--we can
speed-up the process by doing more than adding one brick at a time-- instead
acting dedicatedly and creatively-- having five or ten or more people adding
bricks as a result of one’s original brick!
-------------------------------------------
A
RAV’S SUGGESTION:
At
this crucial point in world history, we must carefully study and implement
the words of Chazal who teach that in order to be saved from the Chevlei
Moshiach one must be oseik in Torah and Gemilas Chasodim. One
wonders, however: “I am really oseik in Torah and Gemilas Chasodim
every day on my own--what more can I do? What did Chazal mean--were they
talking to the more low-level person?” A Rav advised us that each person
should view Chazal as talking to each and every person individually-- and
suggested that each person should do something more daily in Torah and
Chesed--for the express purpose of being saved from Chevlei
Moshiach. He explained that with regard to Torah--it could be a few
more minutes of something that you had been previously learning, or a new
Sefer, or a new Chavrusah--once again, for the express purpose for you to be
saved from the Chevlei Moshiach. Similarly, with respect to Chesed, the Rav
recommended that one consciously do a particular act of Chesed for the
express purpose of being saved. “Doing so is not a selfish or a
‘prize-seeking’ act” he continued. “It is quite to the contrary, recognizing
and fulfilling the words of Chazal.” The Rav urged each person to write
down on a daily basis in a special Chevlei Moshiach Notebook (or
file) what his extra Torah study and extra Chesed was. May the person who
does so see with his own eyes how he is saved--and HaKadosh Baruch Hu’s
return to Tzion and Yerushalayim--speedily and in our day!
----------------------------------------------------------
NOTES ON THE THREE WEEKS:
In an outstanding Hakhel Shiur, Rabbi Dovid Goldwasser, Shlita, made the
following extremely important points about what to think about and what to
do during the Three Weeks.
A. We should think about the Beis HaMikdash--the majestic scene of the
Kohanim doing the Avodah, the Leviim singing, every Yisrael present being
like a member of the royal family, welcome in the palace. If we cannot be
in the Beis HaMikdash, let us at least bring the feelings to mind.
B. Chazal teach: “MeiIgra Rama LiBira Amikta--from the high floor
to the bottom of a pit.” Despite the relative comfort of one’s particular
Galus--with modern cars, modern appliances, modern conveniences, and Glatt
Kosher foods from all over the world--the reality is that we are in the
bottom of a pit. Think about how many Mitzvos we can perform now--as
compared to the Mitzvos we can perform in Eretz Yisrael with K’lal Yisrael
together. Think about the levels of Torah study that we cannot reach
because of the cloudiness generated by Galus. Think about how much higher
you personally can go from a Bira Amikta to a Igra Rama!
C. When eating, whether or not one is at a meal in which he washed, recite
Al Naharos Bavel (Tehillim 137). One should think about what he is
saying--reciting it not only while sitting--but from a Siddur or a Tehillim,
as well.
D. Trying (perhaps at least once a day) to recite a bracha at which there
will be someone there to answer “Amen”.
E. In Galus, what Hashem has is the “Daled Amos Shel Halacha”--and
as for us, “Ain Lanu Shiur Elah HaTorah HaZos.” One should
accordingly try learning more--and especially beretzifus
(consecutively)-at least for an hour a day. If we can demonstrate that we
value the opportunities we have now--then Hashem will give us the
opportunity to value even more later!
F. “VeShaveha B’Tzedaka--we will be redeemed through Tzedaka”--give
some Tzedakah every day for the sake of Geulah.
G. On Motza’ei Shabbos leading into Tisha B’Av, it is said that the Belzer
Rebbe, Z’tl, waited and kept on his shtreimel, hoping desperately that the
Geulah would come instead. After waiting a long time, he sorrowfully
exclaimed: “Oy, Nach a Mal Tisha B’Av, Oy, Nach a Mal Tisha B’Av--again
Tisha B’Av, again Tisha B’Av!” We should not become complacent, feeling
like we are going through a routine year in and year out. We need to move
ourselves to work on tikun, on repair. You may want to repeat the
phrase of the Belzer Rebbe throughout this period.
Rabbi Goldwasser noted that the Three Weeks is an auspicious time to not
only take action--but to accomplish Geulah, for as some interpret the
Pasuk in Eicha--Kol Rodefeha Hisiguha Bein HaMetzarim--all those who
run after Tzion--will reach her during this time. Let us take the steps
that we can (perhaps one should read the above thoughts again, or put some
of his own into place)--and may we reach Tzion speedily and in our
days--this year!
Hakhel Note: To obtain Hakhel CD’s relating to the Three Weeks, please call
718-252-5274.
==============================
24 Tammuz
THE YAHRZEIT OF HARAV YAAKOV YOSEF: For
New York City Metropolitan Area Residents: Today, is the 115th Yahrzeit of
HaRav Yaakov Yosef, the first and only Chief Rabbi of New York over 100
years ago. His kever in Queens, New York is known as a remarkable makom of
Tefillah. For those who wish to visit his kever today or on Sunday, the
address of the cemetery is Union Field Cemetery, 8211 Cypress Avenue,
Ridgewood, NY.
-------------------------------------------
TOMORROW--THE YAHRZEIT OF HARAV MEIR MAI’APTA:
Tomorrow, 25 Tammuz, is the Yahrzeit of HaRav Meir
Mai’Apta, the Ba’al Ohr LaShamayim. A reader has provided us with a
beautiful copy of the Tefillah that the Ba’al Ohr LaShamayim composed, which
would most certainly be appropriate to recite on his Yahrtzeit. The
tefillah is available at
http://tinyurl.com/25ngcr7
-------------------------------------------
SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
We continue our Summer Improvement
Program, with simple suggestions, on a weekly basis,
in each of the areas of Bein Adam LaMakom, Bein Adam L’Chaveiro, and
Bein Adam L’Atzmo. Of course, these are only suggestions--but every
person has the opportunity to join with others who will be attempting the
same successes. In the alternative, one can chart his own
improvement course on a weekly basis as well.
WEEK
4--PARASHAS MATOS-MASEI
Bli neder, at least one time a day
during this week, consciously do the following:
Bein Adam LaMakom:
Actively think of a way that you can make a
Kiddush Hashem--and act on it! Remember, it does not have to appear to be
something big--just a Kiddush Hashem!
Bein Adam L’Chaveiro:
Have someone join in a Mitzvah with you--it
can include asking someone to answer Amen to your bracha.
Bein Adam L’Atzmo:
Run to do a Mitzvah (or want to run).
-------------------------------------------
THE SECOND WEEK:
As we commence the Second Week of the Three Week period, we may address a
fundamental question. Every year, for almost 2,000 years, we have been
observing the very same Three Week period, beginning with the calamities
that befell us on Shiva Asar B’Tammuz, and ending with the catastrophes that
occurred on Tisha B’Av. There may be differences of Minhagim among the
different communities, but the sullenness and solemnity of the days are
common to them all. True, one may ask his Rav whether it is permitted to
eat cookies and cream ice cream with chocolate fudge topping and colored
sprinkles during the Nine Days (see the following Headnote on this), and
even receive a definitive response that it is not prohibited. However, a
question of this sort emphasizes the “tofel” (even ice cream can be tofel,
secondary), and disregards the “ikar” of the period that we are in.
So here is the fundamental question: Do we simply continue observing the
period that we are now in the same way as we did last year--10 years ago and
20 years ago--or do we do something different? After all, on the one hand,
we have been and are doing everything that we thought was, and is, right
according to Halacha during this time--to the point that when we are
doubtful, we ask a Rav (as above). On the other hand, it does not appear
that we have succeeded, for the Bais HaMikdash is still in ruins and we find
ourselves in a world pervaded by terrorism on the one hand, and materialism
on the other, and with a value system completely incongruous to Torah. So
perhaps we should try something different, something else, and something we
have not done before. Perhaps we should approach the Churban and exile from
a different angle. After all, in the business and professional world, if
something does not work one way, you try another way, before giving up.
In order to deal with this dilemma, in order to determine whether we should
continue doing the same (proper) things we have always been doing, and that
our fathers and forefathers have been doing for hundreds upon hundreds of
years--or whether we should do something else--we look to the analogy of our
Galus existence, as taught to school children. You may recall being taught
that while in exile, we rebuild the Bais HaMikdash brick by brick, with
every Mitzvah that we perform being at least one brick in the new,
magnificent, everlasting, Third Bais HaMikdash.
Thus, as we continue to do what we are supposed to do, and as our ancestors
have done over all these years, we are continuously building and building
and building an edifice that we can simply not currently fathom. However,
to continue the analogy, sometimes one can build faster if he has the right
plans, the right equipment, and the right skill. Yet at other times, the
construction process may be quickened simply by pure effort, toil and
exertion. In Egypt, for example, Chazal teach that the bitterness of our
toil significantly curtailed the decreed term of our exile (the “quality” of
the labor making up for the additional time that had to be spent there). It
is for this reason, many teach, that Maror, the bitter herbs, are eaten
**after** the Matzah on the night of the Seder--for through the Maror the
redemption was hastened.
It is no secret that Tisha B’Av always falls on the same day of the week as
the Night of the Seder (which is the reason, some explain, that we have the
egg symbolizing mourning on the Seder Plate, and that some actually eat the
egg at the beginning of the otherwise festive Seder Meal). Obviously, we
are to learn from the Exodus from Egypt how we are to accomplish the Exodus
from our current exile as well.
We may therefore suggest that while we can and should continue to build the
Third and Final Bais HaMikdash in the same manner as we have done in the
past; there is room for us to perhaps further hasten the redemption by
taking some new and different action so that those bricks are put up faster
and faster. Picture the difference between viewing a bricklayer building a
wall in regular motion, and watching him build that very same wall in
“fast-forward.” It will most certainly take a much shorter time for the
wall to be completed.
Let us try to avoid the Maror, the bitterness, as the catalyst for a speedy
redemption if at all possible. Instead, perhaps we should look at what
caused the initial walls to fall in such a short period. This is certainly
one reason: Chazal (Nedarim 81A) teach that the reason we lost Eretz Yisroel
was that “They did not make the Bracha before studying Torah”. Many find it
difficult to learn that this means that the appropriate Bracha was not
actually recited by the masses prior to Torah study. Rather, it is
suggested that the Bracha was not recited with the sufficient feeling and
thought, as is befitting Torah and all that it is and that it represents.
After all, what makes me different from all of the nations, all other
peoples, all of the beings around me? It is the Torah--with its Divine
source, and the Mitzvos and Ma’asim Tovim that emanate directly and
unabatedly from it. If we do not appreciate this, if we recite the Brochos
hastily and/or sleepily, while walking in the home or to Shul, and not from
a Siddur, then perhaps we ought to go out to (or stay in) Exile--among the
nations--to study and finally appreciate what makes us different.
One tikun, one improvement that we can undertake over the next two weeks is
to recite Birchos HaTorah a little more properly--from a Siddur, slowly,
understanding the meaning of the words, and with an appreciation for what
the Torah means to each one of us individually, and to us as a people. If
we do, we may be laying some of those last rows of bricks--at a
“fast-forward” pace!
-------------------------------------------
ADDITIONAL NOTES FOR THE THREE WEEKS:
1. We
can each take our own individual, personal steps to evidence our feelings,
and to show our personal disenchantment/misery with the Galus we are in. As
we have noted in the past, it is a custom among some, for instance, not to
eat meat or drink wine not only during the Nine Days--but even during the
Three Weeks (except, of course, on Shabbos). Others may make their hot
shower just a little less hot. Yet others may attempt to somewhat quash or
limit their needs or desires in some way during this time--not putting on
the mustard, ketchup or extra condiment, or perhaps, as we have noted in the
past, by taking the second choice of food or drink--the roll instead of the
bagel, the ginger ale rather than the coke--simply to demonstrate a
recognition of Imo Anochi B’Tzarah with Hashem at least during this
period--as the Shechina continues in Its tza’ar, exiled from Its
home, and awaiting the return of His children.
2.
There is a custom to recite Tikkun Chatzos at midday on each day of the
Three Weeks. If this is something we cannot do, perhaps we can recite
Tehillim Chapters 79, 83 and/or 137, which are very much related to Tikkun
Chatzos, preferably at Chatzos, or at least at some point during the day.
3. We
remind our readers that at a Hakhel Shiur, HaRav Shmuel Dishon, Shlita, once
posed the following question: “What is the greatest Chilul Hashem in the
world today?! What is the one thing that we should be most ashamed of?!”
He answered that the greatest Chilul Hashem, the greatest shame to us
today, is that we are still in Galus. The Sefer Sha’arei Teshuvah
explains that the great remedy for Chilul Hashem is Kiddush Hashem.
Accordingly, it very much behooves us to focus on acts of Kiddush Hashem--which
is the antitheses of the Chilul Hashem of Galus, and which will, in fact,
constitute the essence of Geulah. Let us each remember the teaching of
Chazal--he who bothers to prepare on Erev Shabbos, will be the one who eats
on Shabbos! Remember our Summer Improvement Program above relating to
Kiddush Hashem--work on it today--and every day!
==============================
23 Tammuz
SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
We continue our Summer Improvement
Program, with simple suggestions, on a weekly basis,
in each of the areas of Bein Adam LaMakom, Bein Adam L’Chaveiro, and
Bein Adam L’Atzmo. Of course, these are only suggestions--but every
person has the opportunity to join with others who will be attempting the
same successes. In the alternative, one can chart his own
improvement course on a weekly basis as well.
WEEK
4--PARASHIOS MATOS-MASEI
Bli neder, at least one time a day
during this week, consciously do the following:
Bein Adam LaMakom:
Actively think of a way that you can make a
Kiddush Hashem--and act on it! Remember, it does not have to appear to be
something big--just a Kiddush Hashem!
Bein Adam L’Chaveiro:
Have someone join in a Mitzvah with you--it
can include asking someone to answer Amen to your bracha.
Bein Adam L’Atzmo:
Run to do a Mitzvah (or want to run).
-------------------------------------------
TODAY--THE YAHRZEIT OF HARAV MOSHE CORDEVERO:
Today is the Yahrzeit of the unparalleled HaRav Moshe Cordevero, Z’tl,
perhaps most well-known for the Sefer Pardes Rimonim and the Sefer
Tomer Devorah, among his many other works. According to the Arizal’s
testimony, the procession bringing HaRav Cordevero to burial was preceded by
a pillar of fire, and, because he was so pure, his death could only be
attributed to the chait of Adam HaRishon. In Chapter 4 of the Tomer
Devorah, HaRav Cordevero writes: “A person can purify his Yetzer Hara
by leading it towards good, and then even his Yetzer Hara becomes rooted in
holiness.”
-------------------------------------------
AN AMAZING THOUGHT:
HaRav Yecheskel Levenstein, Z’tl, brings from HaRav Chaim Vital, Z’tl (Sha’arei
Kedusha, Sha’ar Aleph) that one must be more careful to avoid
Middos Ra’os than to perform Mitzvos Asei and Mitzvos Lo Sa’aseh--for
when one is a Ba’al Middos Tovos it is much easier for him to perform
Mitzvos--for one who is a Ba’al Middos Tovos recognizes the goodness that
Hashem bestows him with, and accordingly wants to give Hashem Nachas
Ruach--which he recognizes is doing His will by the performance of
Mitzvos!
----------------------------------------------------------
REMEMBER--IT IS A PERSONAL COMMUNICATION:
In the Sefer Praying with Fire 2, Rabbi Heshy Kleinman, Shlita, goes
into detail to explain the great significance of personal communication with
Hashem. The Chofetz Chaim, for instance, told one newly inducted soldier
into the Russian army who would be taken far away from Yiddishkeit and its
practice that the one thing that he must continue to do is speak to Hashem
throughout the day. The Chofetz Chaim does not limit this suggestion,
however, to one inducted into an army--but applies it to all. HaRav Avigdor
Miller, Z’tl, similarly teaches that: (i) a businessman should daven to
Hashem when a customer enters or when going to visit a customer; (ii) a
patient should daven to Hashem before and after visiting a health care
professional; and (iii) when entering one’s car, even when it isn’t for a
distance in which Tefillas Haderech would otherwise be warranted--one should
still daven to Hashem to have a safe and successful trip. As the Chernobler
Rebbe, Z’tl, said: “Whom else should I ask?”
-------------------------------------------
TWO IMPORTANT POINTS RELATING TO THE PERIOD WE ARE IN:
A. HaRav Naftali Kaplan, Shlita, teaches that in the Three Weeks we must
work on feeling the Tza’ar HaShechina. In order to do so, as an
introduction, one should study the Sefer Nefesh HaChaim (Sha’ar Beis,
Perakim 11 and 12). One should also review the Seder Ha’avodah
in the Yom Kippur Machzor which highlights what we are missing without the
Beis HaMikdash and the Shechina’s special presence in Yerushalayim. We
should also consider when reciting V’Lirushalayim Irecha and related
Tefillos what we are asking for and why. Finally, we should put our special
sentiment into the words Ahl Kein NeKaveh and the remainder of Aleinu.
B. We are in good company. In Ahl Naharos Bavel (Tehillim 137) the
Targum teaches that the Pasuk Zechor Hashem Livnei Edom was recited
by the Malach Michoel, and the Pasuk of Bas Bavel Hashedudah was
recited by the Malach Gavriel. We must appreciate the enormity of the
destruction. We are so out of place in this Galus that not only do we and
our friends weep--but the greatest of Malochim cry out in agony as well. The
difference is--they cannot bring the Geulah, but we, through our Teshuvah
and Tefillah--can. The time to act is now!
--------------------------------------------------
SOME NOTES FOR THE THREE WEEK PERIOD WE ARE IN:
1. HaRav Avigdor Miller, Z’tl, was asked what one should think about in the
Three Weeks. He responded that one could focus on three things:
A. KAVOD SHOMAYIM--the
honor of Heaven has been brought so low, as we wallow in the values
established by the lower elements of mortal man. Our everyday experiences
would truly be difficult for us, but for the fact that we have become so
accustomed to it. Imagine, then, the pain of the Shechinah as He sees His
children as low as the dust, and not as high as the stars of the sky.
B. SO MUCH LIFE--because
of the Galus and persecutions, so many millions of lives have been lost--all
with such potential for growth and for life.
C. A PERSONAL LACK OF
SHELEIMUS--because we are not in our optimum state, we are simply
incomplete. Nobody wants something that is broken or missing something.
Certainly, then, when it comes to ourselves--we should yearn for the day of
full accomplishment!
2. Technology seems to be so foreign to the world of the Beis Hamikdash as
we picture it. Maybe in some way we can control ourselves during the Three
Weeks for an hour a day--separating ourselves from our connection to the
most modern of worlds--either our computer, our phone, or some other
device--as we strive to connect to the Third Beis Hamikdash and the most
modern world--the eternal world!
3. Another important project is for one to especially look out for how
often he makes excuses for his conduct during the day: “I usually would
not eat this, but…”; “I do not get angry, but…”; “I am doing this now
because…”; or “I have the right, since…”; etc. Rabbi Yissocher Frand,
Shlita, teaches that the Shevatim at the time of their ordeal with Yosef
recognized their mistake and exclaimed: “Aval Asheimim Anachnu--but,
we are guilty!” This means, Rabbi Frand teaches--that the Shevatim
recognized that what they had done to Yosef was full of inappropriate
‘buts’--”but he dreamt that…”; “but he said that…”; “but he wore
that…”. As we realize the ‘buts’ that brought us into Mitzrayim--let
us reflect on how our reflection upon and Teshuvah from the ‘buts’
can bring us out of our current Galus!
4. The Sefer Bnei Yissaschar (brought in the Luach Davar B’Ito)
writes that the months of Tammuz and Av are called Dalim, or The Poor
Ones. He continues that when reciting the words before Shemone Esrei
V’Ozer Dalim, we should have Kavannah that Hashem will help these two
poor months to be lifted up. Hakhel Note: We all know that Hashem has
established this world on a Middah K’negged Middah basis--if we help
the poor--then Hashem will also help the poor. Accordingly, especially in
these days, when a poor person approaches us or knocks on the door, one
should make the effort to be an Ozer Dalim--not hoping that the poor
person goes away or doesn’t see him--but rather showing care and concern,
and giving them whatever he can!
5. Rabbi Shimon Finkelman, Shlita writes in The Chofetz Chaim -A Daily
Companion that “One can compare Lashon Hara to toxic waste, and the laws
of Shemiras Halashon to the protective suit of people who must handle it.
Properly protected--one can save others from harm--and not hurt oneself in
the process!” As noted above, let us strengthen ourselves now and be
especially vigilant to keep out even the harmful ‘second-hand Lashon Hara’--for
if not now--then when?! Hakhel Note: During the Three Week Period, let us
take affirmative action to remedy the systemic state of Galus that we are
in. Our vigilance in the area of Shemiras HaLashon will certainly be a
great and irreplaceable step in our healing. When we talk about vigilance in
Shemiras HaLashon--it is not just ‘words’--it is ACTION!
6. Reminder--Sever Panim Yafos!
7. Reminder--Kavannah in the Yehi Ratzon at the end of Shemone
Esrei and in the Tefillah Ahl HaGeulah!
8. At the Chanukas HaBayis of the Yeshiva in Radin, the Chofetz Chaim told
those gathered that every Jew in every generation needs to have a part in
the Binyan Beis HaMikdash. Indeed, the Chofetz Chaim continued, Chazal teach
that when the Torah records V’Chein Ta’asu (relating to the
construction of the Mishkan), this meant L’Doros Haba’im--for future
generations. Incredibly, Shlomo HaMelech, with the wealth of the world at
his reach, built the Beis HaMikdash out of wood and not out of stone or
metal, in order to give the future generations an opportunity, from
time-to-time to upkeep, repair and revitalize the Binyan Beis HaMikdash. Let
us utilize our opportunities each day and every day to bring the final
Geulah and Yeshuah--and the everlasting Beis HaMikdash--in all of its glory!
==============================
20 Tammuz
REMINDER TEFILLAH AHL HEGEULAH!
Especially in this period, we must remember the words of the Mesilas
Yesharim, who teaches that the Tefillos of each and every person
for the Geulah make a difference and are important. By the following links
we once again provide the Tefillah Ahl HaGeulah
http://tinyurl.com/2u3l4e (Hebrew
version) and http://tinyurl.com/3ybyxq (English
version). Let us remember that, in this week’s Haftarah, Hashem tells
Yirmiyahu HaNavi (Yirmiyahu 1:7): “Ahl Tomar Na’ar Anochi--don’t say
that I am unworthy; there is no reason for excuse.”
----------------------------------------------------------
MODIM AND THE THREE WEEKS: Except on Shabbos or under certain circumstances, it is an
established custom amongst Ashkenazim that the bracha of Shehechiyanu not be
recited within the Three Weeks. We do have the ability, however, to recite
something very similar to Shehechiyanu three times a day even during the
Three Week period--and even on Tisha B’Av! As a reader pointed out to us, in
the Modim D’Rabbanan we essentially paraphrase the bracha of Shehechiyanu as
we thank Hashem “Ahl Shehecheyisanu V’Kiyamtanu--for giving us
life and sustaining us.” Moreover, we then add a wonderful request--Kein
Techayeinu U’Sekayemeinu V’Se’esof Galuyoseinu Bechatzros Kadshecha…so
may You continue to give us life and sustain us and gather our exiles to the
Beis HaMikdash…!
Hakhel Note One: Practical Suggestion: Recite Modim
D’Rabbanan from a Siddur--with Kavannah!
Hakhel Note Two: Fascinatingly, the Sefer Ishei Yisrael,
which contains the Pesakim of HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, writes that if
the Shaliach Tzibbur mistakenly recited Modim D’Rabbanan in Chazaras HaShatz,
rather than the regular Modim--he is Yotzei, and it is a valid Chazaras
HaShatz.
Hakhel Note Three: In this week’s Pirkei Avos (1:2), Shimon
HaTzaddik teaches that the world was created for the accomplishment of three
goals: Torah, Avoda and Gemilas Chasodim. Rabbeinu Yonah (ibid.)
explains that in the time of the Beis HaMikdash, Avodah means bringing
Karbanos. At the current time, when there is no Beis HaMikdash, Rabbeinu
Yonah continues, Tefillah takes the place of Karbanos. Indeed, Dovid
HaMelech exclaims in Tehillim: “Hashem Sefasai Tiftach U’fi Yagid
Tehilasecha--may my Tefillah stand in the place of a Karbon to effect
forgiveness for me for intentional and non-intentional sins.” Oh, how we
must appreciate the importance of our Tefillos--and if we find them lacking,
make efforts to improve them in some way. Sincerely Davening for Teshuvah,
for the Geulah, and having Kavannah in these words of Modim may be a
wonderful place to begin!
---------------------------------------------------------
HAKARAS HATOV APPLIED!
“As a rule, Rabbi Avraham Pam did not accept gifts and tried to
avoid accepting favors from others. He usually made his own arrangements for
traveling to Simchas, saying that he found it easier this way. If he needed
to go somewhere for personal reasons, he preferred taking the bus or subway
rather than asking someone to drive him. When, on occasion, Rav Pam did
accept a favor, he felt indebted to the person. He therefore had a special
notebook in which he would record information which he could use to “return
the favor”. In one entry he wrote, “So-and-so gave me a ride today. He has a
21 year old daughter in need of a shidduch.” When the Shuvu organization,
founded by Rav Pam, launched a fund-raising campaign by mail, the return
envelopes came to Rav Pam’s house. Rav Pam himself opened these envelopes,
and when he would meet someone who had sent a donation, he would thank him
saying: ‘You’ve done something big!’”
[Excerpted from the The Life
and Ideals of Rabbi Avraham Yaakov HaKohen Pam (Artscroll/Mesorah), as
brought in Let There Be Rain by Rabbi Shimon Finkelman, Shlita, and
Rabbi Zechariah Wallerstein, Shlita (Artsroll/Mesorah)]
-------------------------------------------
VE’ROMAMTANU MIKOL HALESHONOS--You Exalted us Above All the
Tongues: This
important phrase from the Yom Tov davening is explained in a stunning way by
HaRav Shlomo Mandel, Shlita (in the name, he believes, of the Bnai
Yissaschar): One should understand the term as follows--there is not a
single language in the entire world that can describe the beauty of K’lal
Yisrael! This being the case--we certainly must look within and see
the beauty within ourselves--and the beauty of each other. Even if another
has hurt you, frustrated you, disappointed you, or not performed in a way
that was expected of him--remember that you have probably disappointed
others in similar ways as well--and you would not want to be remembered by
these disappointments either. We are all uplifted and beautiful in a way
that no language on earth can describe--let us be sure not to bring
others down--for we bring ourselves down together with them!
---------------------------------------------
FROM A READER:
“Pinchos was given a ‘Bris of Shalom’ by Hashem. I
would like to suggest that everyone consider the absolute Pashut P’shat of
these words--in reward for Pinchos acting in such a
self-sacrificing way for the honor of Hashem, Pinchos
was awarded the gift of peace--inner peace; this means tranquility and
calmness in his personal life and his personal decisions. If one acts
with alacrity and unrelenting dedication towards the Torah and Mitzvos, his
closeness to Hashem will build a great Emunah within him. He will thus
be at peace. I think that this is a lesson that we can all internalize and
aspire to.”
-------------------------------------------
WE CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
A. We have been advised that the Halacha Hotline of the Five Towns
and Far Rockaway (under the leadership of Rav Binyomin Forst, Shlita) is
available for those who may be stuck in traffic on Erev Shabbos, and for
other emergencies. The Hotline also has regular hours. The Hotline’s number
is:
516-239-2500.
B. We have referred in the past to the great zechus one engenders
by being mekabel Shabbos early for the sake of bringing Kedushas
Shabbos into one’s life sooner. If at all possible, consider bringing
Shabbos in ten minutes (at least) early this week--as a zechus for all
Acheinu B’nei Yisrael!
C. We remind everyone of the importance of having Kavannah when
reciting Al Naharos Bavel (Tehillim 137), on weekdays, and Shir
HaMa’alos BeShuv Hashem Es Shivas Tzion (Tehillim 126) on Shabbos and
Yom Tov, in each case before bentsching. Rabbi Avrohom Chaim Feuer, Shlita,
in his classic Tehillim translation (Artscroll), points out the great
difference between Al Naharos Bavel and Shir HaMa’alos.
Al Naharos Bavel reminds us of our entering into Galus, as we are
exiled into Babylonia. The Shir HaMa’alos, on the other hand,
provides detail as to how our final redemption will appear to be a dream
because the wonders that will accompany it will exceed our greatest
expectations. Shabbos, which is May’ein Olam Haba, is a perfect time
for us, as exiled Jews, to get a glimpse of our future elevation and glory,
as Hashem returns us to Tzion. Let us appropriately rejoice--as we sing the
words with Kavannah!
D. The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 270) writes that on Friday
evenings in Shul it is the custom to recite the Perek of BaMeh Madlikin.
BaMeh Madlikin is the second Perek of Mesechta Shabbos, which
describes the Halachos of Erev Shabbos (mostly of lighting candles), through
the point of the Ba’al HaBayis gently directing that the candles be lit.
There is a stark and obvious question. Of all Chapters of Mishnayos in
Shas--this Chapter seems to be the least practical to be recited--as,
after all, all of the Erev Shabbos preparations including Hadlakas Neiros
have just been completed--and will not be applicable again for seven days
hence! We suggest that the reason it is our Minhag to recite this
particular Chapter is in order to emphasize the importance of Torah study on
Shabbos--not only for the practical aspect of the review of Hilchos Shabbos,
but also as Torah study for its own sake--even if it may not have any
practical and immediate application!
E.
If one does not like hot food during the summer, HaRav Nissim Karelitz,
Shlita, writes that one should nevertheless eat hot food on Shabbos--unless
he would be hurt by it. His ruling is based on the words of the Mishna
Berurah (SA, OC 297 seif katan 48). Additionally, HaRav Karelitz writes that
because the ikar Seudah on Shabbos is by day, hot food must be eaten at the
day meal, and that drinking a hot drink is insufficient. HaRav Karelitz
bases his ruling on the words of the Ba’al HaMa’or in Mesechta
Shabbos(end of Perek Kirah): “HaMashmin Hu HaMa’amin Vezoche LeKeitz
HaYamin”--one demonstrates his Emunah and is zoche to merit
participating in the end of days--through properly partaking of his
Seudos Shabbos! (ibid. 257, Notes 47,49 and 50).
F. In this week’s Parasha, we learned that the Korban Mussaf of
Shabbos consisted of two kevasim, both brought as a Korban Olah, and
not as a Korban Chatas. A Korban Olah is typically brought for the violation
of a Mitzvas Asei in some form, or for an improper thought. The Ba’alei
Mussar derive from the fact that the Korban Mussaf of Shabbos is only Olos--that
one must especially focus on having proper thoughts on Shabbos. Even if we
begin to think about financial or business matters in a positive way which
may be technically permissible (the nice amount of money one made in the
previous week, how much money one has in the bank, or how successful one was
in a business meeting or a business relationship in the previous week)--he
should nevertheless try to banish business and financial thoughts from his
mind on Shabbos--as they can easily move into an area which is not
permissible on Shabbos because it causes distress--such as what one forgot
to do on Friday, what one needs to order on Monday, how that supplier
shouldn’t have done that, what new advertising needs to be done …. Shabbos
is a wonderful time for one to work-on thought purification!
-------------------------------------------
WHY IS HE THE BEST? HaRav Chaim Shmuelevitz, Z’tl, relates the following now famous
story: When HaRav Chaim was learning as a bochur in the Grodno Yeshiva, he
once went to visit his uncle, HaRav Avraham Yoffen, Z’tl, the Rosh Yeshiva
of Novardok. While there, he asked his uncle who the “best” bochur in the
Yeshiva was. His uncle toured the yeshiva with him. He pointed to one
young man and said “He is the greatest in-depth studier we have.” He
pointed to another bochur and said, “He is our biggest masmid.” About
another bochur he said, “He is the sharpest that we have.” About another,
“He has the greatest body of knowledge.” Rav Chaim pressed his uncle--but in
the end, who is the best bochur in the yeshiva?! The Rosh Yeshiva
pointed to another student whom he had not previously mentioned.
“Why is he the best?!”
“Because he is the greatest ‘mevakesh’--the greatest seeker
in his service of Hashem.” This young man turned out to be the Steipeler
Gaon, Z’tl.
Thus, we see, that even if we may not be blessed with the greatest
memory, the most proficient skills, or even simply the most dedicated
hasmada, each and every one of us still has the ability to be the best,
if we would only excel in the aspect of personal bakasha--in our sincere
quest and drive to fulfill our potential in this world.
When we look around at others in this world, we can see the failed
lives of those like Bilam, in last week’s Parasha, who had such capabilities
of greatness, yet squandered them over temporal and fleeting desires. On
the other hand, there are people like Pinchas who rise above what others,
and perhaps even they, perceive as their limitations, and reach greatness
through their actions.
Now, while there is a concept of “Yesh Koneh Olamo B’Shaah Achas”--one
can acquire greatness in one hour, as Pinchas initially did (and went on
from there), there is a second, more paced road which the mevakesh
can follow. It is the serious and deliberate growth in areas which one has
not previously developed. We find this in this week’s Parasha as well--with
the life of Yehoshua Bin Nun. There are those who may have been stunned
with his selection to be the next leader--were there not other, more
recognized and great personages of the generation? Yehoshua’s bakasha--his
drive to stay associated and learn from Moshe Rabbeinu on a day-in, day-out
basis--his relentless quest--made him the next leader over and above
everyone else.
Indeed, In Parsha Thoughts, Rabbi Aron Moshe Jacobsohn,
Shlita points out that Pinchos was an ‘ordinary
citizen’-- NOT a Kohen--and BECAME a Kohen because of his action!
Each one of us can and should demonstrate to Hashem--and to
ourselves--that we are also a mevakesh. Our measured steps need not
necessarily demonstrate anything superlative, they need only show our desire
to grow bigger and better. Ask yourself at the end of the day--was I a
mevakesh today?
We can be like Yehoshua Bin Nun, we can be like the best bachur in
the Yeshiva--no special skills are necessary--other than to be a mevakesh!
-----------------------
THE
PARASHA’S ENDING:
The Parasha last week ended with the sad event of Bnei Yisrael falling prey
to the Bnos Midyan and their deceit. This week’s Parasha begins with the
after-effects, and the vengeance taken by Bnei Yisrael against the Midyanim.
As with all sin--we must get to its root, its source. What caused this
sin? How did the Bnei Yisrael get involved with the Bnos Midyan at this
late stage of their encampment in the desert, after so many years of
extraordinarily miraculous living in the Midbar--as they were soon to
approach their destination-- Eretz Yisrael? Rabbi Shmuel Smith, Shlita,
brings the words of the Pasuk (Bamidbar 25:1) “Veyeishev Yisrael BaShitim…--and
Bnei Yisrael camped in Shitim”. This can be interpreted to mean, Chazal
teach, that they went out into the foreign environment (Shatu) of the
gentile nations to see how they lived. Rather than appreciating the
extremely important lessons that Hashem taught them--how they could be
successful and live an extraordinary existence if they remained separate and
distinct--they ventured out to see how the people around them lived--what
these people did and how they did it. The tragedy that resulted was
transgression compounded by transgression--as they first sinned with the
daughters of Midyan and went on to worship Avodah Zara. Incredibly, what
Bilam could not accomplish with his expertise and mastery at sorcery and
cursing--the people brought upon themselves by leaving the protection and
confines of their Torah environment. This is truly a great lesson for us
during the Three Week period, as the outdoors becomes a more enticing
environment and ‘enjoyable’, fun-filled vacations become the standard that
one is expected to be guided by. We must take the lesson from the Bnos
Midyan event--and lean much to the side of Pinchas Ben Elazar--who went far
out of his way to combat what had quickly become the ‘acceptable’ standard.
Sometimes a little bit of something is good. Here, however, the Vilna Gaon
(Even Shelaima 1:7) in his great wisdom notes: “A man should never
say, ‘I will follow my physical lust and inquisitive desires a little and
afterwards will withdraw from them.’ For as a man begins to draw toward
them he becomes busy and forfeits his eternal life completely. For it is
very difficult to withdraw from them. Even the man who fears Hashem, who is
versed in the Torah, and observes the mitzvos, when he draws toward lust, he
will lose all.”
As
HaRav Yisrael Belsky, Z’tl, once told men walking on the streets of New York
City, “To the extent possible, put your head down, and walk in a determined
manner to your destination.” One cannot argue that what is around us is the
“normal” way of the world, and that we cannot get around it. What is--or
should be--considered normal is the way Hashem wants us to conduct
ourselves. Rabbi Yisroel Reisman, Shlita, reiterates this with the following
essential teaching: A Kiddush Hashem is not doing what people like or think
is right--but what Hashem says is right.
The
task is a difficult one--both from the Yetzer Hora within, and the Yetzer
Hora without. Chazal teach that according to the effort is the reward (Avos:
5:26). We are in Galus, a bitter Galus. Rabbi Smith concludes that the
Three Weeks are positioned right here in these summer months as if to teach
us that if we really want to leave this Galus and achieve Geula, we must
demonstrate that we are different, and that we conduct ourselves by a
different set of rules.
It is
“hand-to-hand combat” out there for each and every one of us--but what
greater victory can there be than each of us doing more than our part in
bringing the Geulah!
==============================
19 Tammuz
A
THREE WEEKS THOUGHT:
Rabbi
Dovid Goldwasser, Shlita, notes that we refer to the 21 day period between
Shivah Asar B’Tammuz and Tisha B’Av more readily by the term the “Three
Weeks” than by the term “The 21 Days”. He explained that this may be to
remind us that we must focus on seeking the Third Bais
HaMikdash! Hakhel Note: It is well known that the Chofetz Chaim (in the
beginning of the Sefer Chofetz Chaim) teaches that the Sinas
Chinam that brought about the destruction of the Second Bais HaMikdash
and keeps us in exile essentially refers to the Lashon Hara that is spoken.
The Chofetz Chaim (in the Sefer Shemiras HaLashon) writes that Yosef
received twelve years in jail, which was comprised of one year for the
Lashon Hara that he spoke against each of his ten brothers (Binyomin was not
included), and two years for his apparent expression of non-Bitachon (on his
level), by reliance on the Sar HaMashkim. One year in jail per
person--for the Lashon Hara spoken. This important picture may be
something to visualize--as you are about to speak what may be Lashon
Hara--picture the Third Bais HaMikdash to your right side--and r’l
prison bars to the left. The choice is yours!
-------------------------------------------
THE COMPARISON:
HaRav Shlomo Mandel, Shlita, brings a Maharsha (to Bechoros 8), who compares
the three week period between Rosh Hashanah and Hoshana Rabbah to the Three
Weeks between Shivah Asar B’Tammuz and Tisha B’Av. It is a twinship of
process, and a twinship of culmination. These are days of examination,
thinking, repairing, changing one’s mindset and ways, a time in which one
must put himself into his best working order. HaRav Mandel teaches that
much of what we must do during this period is to re-forge our relationship
with Hashem. Why? Let us look at the words of the Navi. In the Haftarah
of Shabbos Chazon, Yeshayahu HaNavi (Yeshaya 1:3) laments: “Yadah Shor
Koneihu V’Chamor Eivus Ba’alav…--the ox knows its owner, and a donkey
his master’s trough, Yisrael does not know, my nation does not perceive….”
If the animals recognize who provides them with their sustenance and enables
them to live, function and achieve that which they are supposed to--then we,
all the more so, must apply the lessons ‘a million times over’ and recognize
HaKadosh Baruch Hu in all that we do. HaRav Mandel brings an incredible
Maharal (in Parashas Bereishis) who teaches that if a person is not a
Makir Tovah, then it is forbidden to do him a Tovah. HaRav
Mandel explains that it appears a bit like Lifnei Iver for a
person to do a good deed to someone who will not recognize it--for he will
then be punished for being a Kafui Tovah--for denying the good(!).
In a similar vein, as we have noted in the past, Rabbi Salomon, Shlita,
points out that it is not by coincidence that we are to recite the Birkos
HaShachar--every day--at the top of the day. These brachos should
definitely reintroduce us to a Hakarah, to a recognition of what
Hashem does for us on a 24 hour a day, 7 day a week basis. It is also no
coincidence, Rabbi Salomon adds, that the first bracha is Asher Nasan
Lasechvi Vinah. According to one interpretation, this refers to Hashem
giving the rooster the understanding to distinguish between day and night.
What is the great understanding here? After all, this is something that the
rooster does day in and day out, when it senses the same thing that it
sensed the day before?! Rabbi Salomon answers that a true appreciation is
one in which we thank Hashem for the daily abilities of our of our
bodies to be able to be lifted out of bed, of our legs to walk together in
the same direction, and for all of the senses, intellect and gifts that we
are blessed with today. It is not because we had them yesterday that we by
any means or ‘automatically’ get them again today. Will we eat good food
today--or dog food? Will we be able to articulate the words of our Brachos
and Tefillos, the Torah thought and the compliment--or will the words not
come out properly, or in disarray? Will we be able to pass by aisles and
aisles of over-the-counter medications in the pharmacy as we go to purchase
a tube of toothpaste, without having to purchase any of them? Will we be
able to check “no” to the scores of health and illness related questions on
the doctor’s questionnaire when seeing him for the first time?
Remember--when the Beis HaMikdash comes the foremost result will be that we
will have an extremely direct and personal relationship with Hashem--if we
work on that now, to the extent that we can--how the more ready we will be
for the day when our Ruchniyus will be lifted further and our lives fully
fulfilled! Hakaras HaTov--let us work on it over the Three Weeks with
focused Birkos HaShachar, an understanding in our brachos throughout the
day--and by recognizing throughout the day how Hashem allows us, guides us
and moves us through the circumstances, situations and events of each and
every day!
---------------------------------------------------------
PRACTICAL SUGGESTIONS TO BRING THE WORLD’S “ETERNAL DAYTIME” EARLIER:
1. At
the end of Shemone Esrei every day, and at the end of each Kaddish, “Oseh
Shalom Bimromav Hu Ya’aseh Shalom Aleinu V’Ahl Kol Yisrael V’Imru Amein”
is recited. [The Meforshim on the Siddur explain that the V’Imru Amein
in our silent Shemone Esrei is addressed to the Malochim who accompany us.]
What a powerful phrase--especially at this time--to have Kavannah in, and to
which to respond Amein (in Kaddish) with great Kavannah and fervor.
2. The
Sefer Mesilas Yesharim teaches that a person’s ultimate and true goal
should be to give Nachas Ruach to HaKadosh Baruch Hu. Focus on what you are
about to say or do several times a day--do I think that this is going to
give Hashem true Nachas Ruach?
3. As
K’lal Yisrael is in this last Galus (which, as Rabbi Eliyahu Schneider,
Shlita points out, we referred to as a Tzara Gedola in the Tefilla of
Aneinu just two days ago) because Hashem is upset or angry with us,
then we must act to others in a manner in which we are not upset or angry
with them. Likewise, if it is Din that K’lal Yisrael is experiencing, then
we are looking for Rachamim B’Din--which we can receive on a middah
k’neged middah basis by our acting with mercy towards others. Remember--Hashem
Tzilecha--Hashem is our shadow! It is all very
much related!
4. The
Baa’lei Mussar write that one should try to study more Torah. The Steipeler
Gaon would urge those seeking Kapparah to relearn things that they already
knew--as this would bring about Kapparah, for a person wants to by nature
learn something new--and that reviewing over again what one already knows
can serve as ‘yissurin’ and bring about Kapparah!
5.
Towards the end of Mesechta Ta’anis, we learn that Abba Umna was given
Shalom by the Mesivta D’Rakiyah every day. The Gemara explains that
this was largely because in treating his patients while bloodletting, he
kept the men and women separate and gave the women modest garments to
wear during the procedure. The Gemara then continues that Eliyahu Hanavi
showed Rav Bruna a prison warden who would be a Ben Olam Haba because he
kept the male and female prisoners separate, and did not let them co-mingle.
In last week’s Parasha, we find that Bilam praised K’lal Yisrael with the
words Mah Tovu Ohalecha Yaakov--how beautiful is our modesty and
privacy. In turn, last week’s Haftarah (Micha 6:8) concludes with the
question: What does Hashem seek of you?: “…V’Hatznei’ah Leches Im
Elokecha--walking modestly with Hashem.” We emphasize that both men
and women must demonstrate their own unique and royal status and
privilege by dressing themselves (and their children) appropriately when
going out into the world, when in Shul, and when in the confines of one’s
own home. Remember--V’Hatznei’ah Leches Im Elokecha--we must
walk modestly with Hashem--that is what Hashem expects of us!
==============================
18 Tammuz
UPDATED APP FOR Z’MANIM WHILE IN FLIGHT:
MyZmanim Air V2--This app, which provides halachic z’manim for those
traveling on an airplane, has been expanded and upgraded, for greater speed,
ease of use, and to handle higher altitudes, date line issues, and
bi-directional flights. Midnight and earliest Maariv times have also been
added to this version. The app provides a PDF of all relevant time periods
for viewing on one’s phone during the flight. The app is available at
http://tinyurl.com/y7wr73e5
--------------------------------------------------
FROM A
READER:
“Rabbi Munk, Zt’l, founder of Camp Munk, used to encourage the staff and
campers to end their letters written during the Three Weeks with the
notation, “Nechomas Tzion”. We should undertake this meaningful
hanhaga in our correspondence, including emails, to remind ourselves and
others of the import of the period of bain hametzarim. Nechomas Tzion.”
------------------------------------------------
HAVE A PLAN!
It is essential that we not let the Three Weeks pass without a plan. On
Monday, we presented the Sever Panim Yafos Calendar--we provide it again at
the end of this Bulletin. In Bein Adam LaMakom, we had suggested a
special emphasis on the final words of Shemone Esrei--Yehi Ratzon
Milefanecha.... One may also place special emphasis on the bracha of
V’Lirushalayim Irecha--thoughtfully pleading with Hashem to return
Yerushalayim to its status of glory. In all events, we must not allow this
crucial period to pass with a ‘summer’ attitude.
-------------------------------------------------
PESAKIM RELATING TO THE THREE WEEK PERIOD:
In order to begin to appreciate the great number of issues that these times
generate, we once again provide below several Halachos from the Sefer
Ashrei HaIsh, written by Rabbi Yechezkel Feinhandler, Shlita, containing
the Pesakim of Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv, Z’tl, and from the Sefer
Koveitz Halachos which contains the Pesakim of HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky,
Shlita on the Bain HaMetzarim Period, as written by his close Talmid, Rabbi
Doniel Kleinman, Shlita:
Pesakim of HaRav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv:
A.
HaRav Elyashiv rules that one cannot play an acapella tape during this
period, because turning on the recorder is like turning on a musical
instrument. He also rules that it is assur to listen to Chazanus during this
period. One need not change the ‘hold music’ on his telephone line, however.
B.
Until Rosh Chodesh Av, one can buy and use utensils or clothing, but only if
a Shehechiyanu need not be recited.
C. One
should avoid any activity which involves ‘me’at sakana’--which may be
a little dangerous. If at all possible, one should not schedule
non-emergency surgery during this period.
Pesakim of Rav Shmuel Kamenetsky:
A. One
need not change the ring tone on his phone to a regular ring.
B. If
one has non-Jewish workers in his home, he need not instruct them to turn
off their music.
C. One
is permitted to sit in a waiting room or to enter a store, where music is
‘piped in’.
D. One
is permitted to recite Shehechiyanu on Shabbos. If one was Mekabel Shabbos
early, one can recite Shehechiyanu even if it is still daylight outside.
E. One
should not purchase a new Tallis during the Three Weeks, as it would require
a Shehechiyanu. However, it one’s Tallis was lost, one can buy a new one and
make a Shehechiyanu even during the Three Weeks--he need not bother his
friend to borrow his Tallis.
F. One
should not begin painting his home during the Three Weeks.
------------------------------------------------
IMPORTANT HALACHIC OVERVIEW OF THE THREE WEEKS:
We now provide greater specifics as to Halachos of the Three Week Period
from HaRav Yisroel Dov Webster, Shlita, noted Posek, Dayan--Shaarei Mishpat,
and author of The Halachos of Pregnancy and Childbirth, who gives a
Hakhel Halacha Shiur in Boro Park. As with all Halachos, in case of one’s
particular circumstances, he/she should consult with his/her own Rav or
Posek:
There
are four levels of mourning for the destruction of the Bais Hamikdash.
A)
From the Seventeenth of Tammuz
B)
From Rosh Chodesh Av
C) The
week of Tisha B’Av
D)
Tisha B’Av
Some
restrictions begin from the Seventeenth of Tammuz, others from Rosh Chodesh
Av, others during the week that Tisha B’Av occurs and others until the
eleventh of Av (since the Bais Hamikdash continued to burn until then). One
should be careful to distinguish properly the exact period of each
restriction.
Why
are there so many restrictions such as not reciting Shehechiyanu on new
fruits, buying new clothing or making a wedding in the weeks preceding Tisha
B’Av?
Chazal
tells us that Hashem Yisborach destroyed the Bais Hamikdash because of
baseless hatred that existed within the Jewish nation. In Pirkei Avos we are
instructed that jealously, lust and pride bring the downfall of man.
These restrictions such as refraining from wearing new clothing (symbolic of
status of a person) or not eating meat from the day of Rosh Chodesh Av (want
for earthly pleasures) tend to remove hatred and jealously, often considered
sister traits in man and may bring a spirit of harmony and humility to man.
These qualities found through these restrictions are the proper correction
in character of the Jewish nation that will lead to the third and final
rebuilding of the Beis Hamikdash. B’Ezras Hashem Amen (ER-1).
WEDDINGS AND ENGAGEMENTS
Chazal
felt that during this tragic time for K’lal Yisrael it is not a time for one
to be very joyous, therefore holding a wedding during this time of sadness
demonstrates a lack of sensitivity regarding the destruction of the Bais
Hamikdash (Bach 551, MB-14).
It is
customary in the Ashkenazic community not to make a wedding even if they
will not serve the wedding meal, from the seventeenth of Tammuz until midday
on the eleventh of Av. In the Sephardic community there are differences of
opinions with regard to this restriction whether it applies to the whole
Three Weeks or from Rosh Chodesh (SA 551-2, MA-9, MB-15, YO Vol. 6-43, YD
Vol. 1-36). Many Sephardic communities have taken on the minhag not to make
a wedding from the seventeenth of Tammuz. This halacha applies even to
someone who has never been married (Sh’vus Yaakov Vol. 2-35, Sedai Chemed
Vol. 6-1:14).
Engagements or Tenaim are permitted throughout the Three Weeks including the
nine days; however, one should refrain from dancing at the affair (SA 551-2,
MA-6, MB-16, KH-44). A festive meal is permitted only until Rosh Chodesh,
during the nine days refreshments may be served (MA-10, MB-16 & 19, KH-38).
Some Poskim are of the opinion that one should refrain from making an
engagement during the nine days (Ben Ish Chai Parashas Devorim-4, See TE
Vol. 13-60).
DANCING AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Dancing and playing musical instruments are prohibited during the Three
Weeks (MA 551-10, MB-16, KH-39), this includes music tapes (Simlas Chaim
29-1, Halachos Moshe (Mamon) 43, Kapi Aharon 52, Igros Moshe Vol 6 OC 21-4,
YD Vol. 6-32). However, one may sing without any musical accompaniment
(Sedai Chemed 1-10, Yalkut Yosef Daf 561 (5)).
A
musician who earns his living by playing for a non-Jew may play the
instrument until Rosh Chodesh (PM Eshel Avraham 551-10, KH-39, Mahram Shick
YD 368, Zachar Simcha 67). A music teacher who earns his living by giving
lessons may do so until Rosh Chodesh (PM 551, TE Vol. 16-19, Rivevos Ephraim
Vol. 2-155 & Vol. 6-291(1), Chai Halavi Vol. 2-40).
A
child may practice playing a musical instrument until Rosh Chodesh (S.B.
122-2, Igros Moshe OC Vol. 4-21, Rivevos Ephraim Vol. 2-155:2,Vol 3-334, Am
Kilavi Vol. 1 OC 305 not like Bitzel Hachachma Vol 6-61). Some are lenient
and permit the child to practice until the week of Tisha B’Av (Zacher Simcha
67). Accordingly, one should consult a Rav.
A
couple that was married before the Three Weeks may celebrate their sheva
brachos. There is a dispute among the Poskim whether one is permitted to
play music and dance at the sheva brachos (See MH Vol. 7-109 & 2nd ED. Vol
1-443, Igros Moshe EH Vol. 1-97, Binyan Tzion, Shraga Hameir Vol. 2-13, MU
Vol. 8-338, Kovets Or Yisrael Tammuz 1996, Archos Rabbeinu Vol. 2 Daf 128,
KH-40). Accordingly, one should consult a Rav.
One is
permitted to sing without a musical accompaniment, only if it does not bring
one to an over joyous mood (Sedei Chemed Vol. 6 Pas Hasaday 1-10). One is
permitted to sing zemiros songs on Shabbos during the entire Three Weeks
(Igros Moshe OH Vol. 4-112:1, KH-41, Rivevos Ephraim Vol. 6-291(1)).
One is
permitted to teach new songs to others, however, they should not be overly
joyous tunes (KH 551-41).
It is
permissible for one to play music in one’s office for their non-Jewish
workers until midday on erev Tisha B’Av (Eshel Avraham (Butshasha) 554,
Tzitz Eliezer Vol. 15-33 & appendix).
One is
permitted to play a musical tape for small children until Rosh Chodesh e.g.,
Uncle Moshie etc. (See Marshag Vol. 2-125, Kol Sinai Daf 146, S.B. 122 Kunt.
Ach. 2).
It is
permissible for one to exercise to a music beat.
One is
permitted to sing a tune while learning (YD Vol. 6-32, Shevet Hakahati Vol.
1-189).
HAIRCUTS, SHAVING AND NAIL CUTTING
The
custom among the Ashkenazic community is not to cut one’s hair from the eve
of the fast on the seventeenth of Tammuz until midday on the eleventh of Av
(Rama 551-4, MB-82, Chaim Shaul 24, Eshel Avraham Vol. II 551-3, Igros Moshe
OC Vol. 3-100) even for the honor of Shabbos (MA-14, MB-32, see PM -14,
Matai Yehudah-4, R’ Akiva Eiger, CA 133-17).
The
Sephardic community is lenient and does not start this prohibition until the
week that Tisha B’Av occurs (SA 551-3 & 12). Others are more stringent and
start the prohibition from Rosh Chodesh Av, while others are not lenient and
conduct themselves like the Ashkenazic community from the seventeenth of
Tammuz (Yaskil Avdi Vol. 7-35).]
Although haircutting (the head, beard and the rest of the body) is forbidden
to Ashkenazim for the entire Three Weeks, one is permitted to cut one’s
nails until the week that Tisha B’Av occurs (MA-11, MB-20, KH-48). A woman
before her ritual immersion may cut her nails the entire Three Weeks.
Similarly, it is permissible for a mohel to trim his nail in preparation for
a circumcision (KH-49,182).
If one
has a hanging nail or one’s nails are so long that they are causing one
discomfort, one may cut them even during the week of Tisha B’Av; however,
one should bite them and not use a nail clipper or scissors if possible (Ben
Ish Chai-13, KH-49).
One is
permitted to trim one’s mustache the entire Three Weeks if it interferes
with one’s eating (SA-13, MB-80). Some poskim are of the opinion that it is
permissible only until Rosh Chodesh (KSA-4, see Shar Hatzion-90).
One is
permitted to tweeze one’s eyebrows (Nitai Gavriel 8-4 in the name of HaGaon
Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach Zt’l and Rav Shmuel Wozner, Z’tl, Rivevos Ephraim
Vol. 5-376(3)).
Combing one’s hair is permissible throughout the Three Weeks (MB-20, AH-15,
see KH-46 & 47).
A
married woman may cut her hair around her temples or in the back of her head
for modest reasons the entire Three Weeks. MB-79, Igros Moshe YD Vol. 2-137
& OC Vol. 4, KH-47, Rivevos Ephraim Vol. 4-135(8)). A married woman or a
girl of marriageable age may shave her legs the entire Three Weeks (HaGaon
Rav Moshe Feinstein ZT”L see Rivevos Ephraim Vol. 5-376(2) & Vol. 6-291(2)
HaGaon Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach ZT”L see Halichos Baisoy 25- note 70).
A
person who shaves daily and by not doing so may jeopardize his job should
refrain from shaving from Rosh Chodesh or at least during the week that
Tisha B’Av occurs (SMB 122-2, Igros Moshe CM Vol. 1-93 OC Vol. 4-102, Yaskil
Avdi Vol. 5-55).
An
adult may not even give a haircut to a child under the age of chinuch during
the Three Weeks (SA 551-14, MA-38, ER-31, CA 133-18, MB-81& 82, KSA -4).
Some poskim state that the prohibition starts only the week that Tisha B’Av
occurs (CA). In case of great necessity one should consult a Rav.
A
mourner whose thirty days of mourning over a relative was completed during
the Three Weeks may shave and take a haircut until Rosh Chodesh Av (SA
551-15, Bach). However, after Rosh Chodesh he may only trim his hair with a
knife or razor and not with scissors unless it is necessary, but it is
permitted only until the week that Tisha B’Av occurs (KSA 122-5, CA 133-20,
MB-87).
In
honor of a Bris, the Mohel, Sandek and the father of the infant may take a
haircut and shave, but only until the week that Tisha B’Av occurs (Nodah
Biyehudah OC Vol. I 28 & Vol. II YD 213, KSA 122-15, see Sedai Chemed ).
Some poskim permit one to take a haircut and shave even during the week of
Tisha B’Av (Chasam Sofer OH 128). Accordingly, one should consult a Rav.
There
is a dispute among the poskim whether a child that has his bar mitzvah
during the Three Weeks may take a haircut. One should consult a Rav. (MH
Vol. 6-45, Devrei Shalom Vol. 3-6, Bais Avi Vol. 2-58, SMB Kunt. Ach. 120-8,
Rivevos Ephraim Vol. 1-237 Vol. 2-155).
A
Sefardic boy who is studying in an Ashkenazic yeshivah is permitted to take
a haircut or shave according to his minhag. However, if he follows the
minhag of the Ashkenazim and does not shave or take a haircut from the
seventeenth of Tammuz, he should preferably state that it is without a neder-vow
(YD Vol 3-39 & Vol. 4-36, see Yaskil Avdi Vol. 7 OC 35).
NEW
FRUITS, GARMENTS AND BRACHA OF SHEHECHIYANU
The
minhag is to refrain from wearing new clothing, eating a new fruit or buying
new items during the Three Weeks that require a bracha of Shehechiyanu, so
as not to require the recital of the bracha of Shehechiyanu which is recited
over a joyous event (SA 551-17, MB-99, KH-207, Igros Moshe OC Vol 3-80).
Therefore, one should not buy or wear a new garment or eat a new fruit that
requires a Shehechiyanu (MB-99, KH-210).
Many
poskim are of the opinion that those that recite the Shehechiyanu at the
time of circumcision (as in Eretz Yisrael), or at a Pidyon Haben, may recite
the Shehechiyanu (SA-17, DT 551-17).
Many
poskim are of the opinion that one may recite the bracha of Shehechiyanu on
Shabbos (ER-42, CA 133-8, KSA 122-2, MB-98) until Rosh Chodesh Av (AH
551-38, Toras Chaim 551-35, Kinyan Torah B’Halacha Vol. 6-32). Therefore, if
the new fruit can last until Shabbos, one should wait until Shabbos,
otherwise it may be recited during the week (Rama, MB-101). Some poskim are
of the opinion that one may wear a new suit or dress on Shabbos if there is
a special occasion such as a bar mitzvah or bris milah, until the week of
Tisha B’Av (YD Vol. 1-37). Others are stringent and permit this only with
regard to a fruit but not with regard to clothing (ER-17, CA-14, KSA).
A
pregnant woman or a person who is ill and desires this new fruit, may eat it
even during the week (MB-99, KH-211). Preferably, however, she should wait
to eat it on Shabbos and recite the bracha of Shehechiyanu. Some poskim are
of the opinion that she should eat the fruit without the bracha of
Shehechiyanu and after Tisha B’Av eats another fruit that requires a
Shehechiyanu (Birkai Yoseph 551); however, one may rely on the lenient view
(KH-211, Tosfos Chaim on CA 133-13).
One
may not purchase clothing etc. that requires the recitation of Shehechiyanu
during the Three Weeks even if one will wear it after the Three Weeks.
However, clothing etc. that does not require a bracha of Shehechiyanu may be
purchased until Rosh Chodesh, therefore, one may purchase socks, shirt,
shoes, ties, dishes or any other similar item (MB-45).
If
there is a big sale, one may purchase the garment although it would require
that one recite a Shehechiyanu when worn for the first time; however, it may
not be worn until after Tisha B’Av (MB-11, Shar Hatzion-12, KH-21).
If a
person wore a suit or dress once, it is not considered as new anymore and it
may be worn during the Three Weeks (KH-90).
One
should refrain from looking at or buying a house or apartment, during the
Three Weeks unless one is in need of it desperately (MB 551-12, Chazon Ish,
Z’tl, see Archos Rabbeinu Vol. 2 Daf 129-15, Rivevos Ephraim Vol. 2-155 &
Vol. 3 341, Nitai Gavriel 7-9). Similarly, one should not move into a new
apartment, or house during the Three Weeks.
One is
permitted to recite the bracha of Shehechiyanu upon the birth of a girl
during the Three Weeks (Nitai Gavriel 9-6, Yad L’Yoledes).
According to all poskim one is permitted to recite the bracha of Hatov
V’Hamativ during the Three Weeks (ST 551, Yavetz).
One
should not give a gift that will cause great rejoicing to the recipient
during the Three Weeks (Rivevos Ephraim Vol. 3-336, Tisha B’Av Sh’chal
B’Shabbos (Dibliski) Daf 111, Yad L’Yoledes).
One is
permitted to recite Hagomel during the Three Weeks (Sidai Chemed 2 note 3.
Yad L’Yoledes).
BEING
MORE CAREFUL THAN USUAL
Since
these days are full of tragedies and misfortune, one must be careful
to refrain from doing things that may be dangerous (Mikor Chaim 551-14).
One
should not hit one’s child or student during the Three Weeks (SA 551-18,
MB-102 & 103, KSA 122-12, see Eshel Avraham (Butshasha)).
Some
poskim state that one should not plan a pleasure trip during the Three Weeks
(Sedai Chemed Pas Hasada 1-10 in the name of Rabbi Chaim Pilagi, Z’tl).
Others state that it is only during the Nine Days (Nitai Gavriel 7-4).
Some
Poskim are of the opinion that one should not go swimming in a pool during
the Three Weeks unless they went swimming prior to the Three Weeks. Most
Poskim state that there is no basis for this and it is permissible to go
swimming in a pool (Sedai Chemed Pas Hasada 1-1, Rivevos Ephraim Vol.
4-135(14) & Vol. 6-285, Avalos Hachurban Page 133, Hilchos U’Minhagim Bein
Hamitzarim Page 34, TV Vol. 2-263). However, many Poskim agree that one
should not go swimming in the deep parts of a lake or river (Mikor Chaim-16,
Steipeler Rav Zt’l Orchos Rabbeinu Vol. 2 Daf 129, Rabbi YS Elyashiv Z’tl
see Hilchos U’Minhagim Page 34).
Some
Poskim in Eretz Yisrael are of the opinion that one should not fly by plane
during the Three Weeks from Eretz Yisrael to America (Availus Hachurban Page
134). However, many are lenient.
Although minors are exempt from the observance of mourning in cases of
personal bereavement, some poskim are of the opinion that children of
chinuch age are obligated to observe the laws of the Three Weeks (MA 551-38,
MB-70, 81, AH-31).
MOURNING OVER THE DESTRUCTION OF THE BAIS HAMIKDASH
The
Arizal held that during these days one mourns the destruction of the Beis
Hamikdash more than the rest of the year. Some have the minhag to recite
Tikun Chatzos (MA 550-42, MB-103), others do not follow this minhag (Aphrikasta
D’anya 13, Minhaga Torah Yisrael Vol. 3 551). The Dubno Maggid reminds us
that those who mourn most bitterly for our loss will witness the grief that
he had turn into great rejoicing. This is based on the passage “Rejoice with
Jerusalem, and be glad with her, all those who love her, rejoice, receive
her in her great rejoicing, all of you who mourn for her” (Isaiah 66-10).
Written in loving memory of my Mother in-law Channa Sara Bas R’ Pesach A”h
niftera 13th of Tammuz 5756 (1996), and my daughter Ita Tzipporah A”h
niftera 23rd of Menachem Av 5753 (1993).
REMEMBER--SEVER PANIM YAFOS!
Over
the Three Week period, one of a person’s great accomplishments would
be true improvement in Bein Adam L’Chaveiro. As the Chofetz Chaim
outlines at the outset of the Sefer Chofetz Chaim, the Second Beis
HaMikdash was destroyed because of the aveira of Sinas Chinam/Lashon Hara.
HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, in the Sefer Sifsei Chaim, writes that
Sever Panim Yafos--meeting and reacting to a person with thought, care and
pleasantness would be a great accomplishment resulting from the Three Week
period. Even when not meeting someone in person, HaRav Friedlander
continues, one should talk over the phone in a way in which the person on
the other end feels the smile. To aid in the sometimes difficult task, no
matter how busy or preoccupied you may be, we once again provide a check-off
calendar for the Three Weeks, starting Tuesday. If you feel that the
constant obligation to do so is too difficult, may we suggest that you
undertake this goal consciously, one or two or three times a day, or perhaps
with one or two or three specific people a day (could be family members or
difficult people to work or deal with!). We wish everyone Hatzlacha in this
endeavor, and may the Geulah Sheleimah be before us all!
==============================
17 Tammuz
SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
We continue our Summer Improvement Program, with simple suggestions, on a
weekly basis, in each of the areas of Bein Adam LaMakom, Bein Adam
L’Chaveiro, and Bein Adam L’Atzmo. Of course, these are only
suggestions--but every person has the opportunity to join with others who
will be attempting the same successes. In the alternative, one can chart his
own improvement course on a weekly basis as well.
WEEK 3--PARASHAS PINCHOS
Bli neder, at least one time a day during this week, consciously do
the following:
Bein Adam LaMakom:
Respond to a news item, objective situation or personal circumstance with
the words “Ain Od Milevado”, and look up to Shomayim
Bein Adam L’Chaveiro:
Perform an unrequested Chesed before breakfast
Bein Adam L’Atzmo:
Do not ‘lose your cool’ even though it appears justifiable and you feel it
may be even correct to do so
------------------------------------------
TZEDAKA!
Please remember to give Tzedaka on the Ta’anis for as Chazal teach ‘Igra
DeTa’anisa Tzidkasa’. If you need an address--we provide
yadeliezer.org --which has been helping
the poor in Eretz Yisrael for decades with true honor and real distinction.
Add the Navi’s teaching that “Veshaveha BiTzedaka--those who return
to Tzion will return with tzedaka” to the need to give on a Ta’anis itself
--and we appreciate how much we can accomplish with some well placed funds
on this very significant day!
------------------------------------------------
HOW
TO OVERRIDE DIN:
Bila’am himself exclaimed, “Oi-Mi Yichyeh M’Sumo Kel-- OH! who will
survive when He imposes these?” (Bamidbar 24:23)
It
would seem appropriate, especially as we enter the period of the Three
Weeks, for each one of us to do what we can to avoid din, strict justice,
upon us individually and upon our families. After all, Hillel teaches in
Avos, “Im ain ani li mi li--If I am not for myself who will be for
me?” (Avos 1:14) The following are three recommendations--life vests
supplied in turbulent waters:
1.
The Gemara (Rosh HaShana 17A) teaches “For one who passes over his Middos
(e.g., does not anger, does not take vengeance, and does not react--Hashem
will, in turn, pass over his sins.” The cheshbon is simple-Middah
K’Neged Middah at its finest!
2.
The Gemara (Sotah 21A) teaches that the study of Torah does not only save
one from punishment once punishment has commenced--but actually even shields
and protects one before the onset of any new punishment, as well. The
Gemara explains (based upon the Posuk in Mishlei (6:23)), that Torah is
compared to the light of the sun, which unlike the light of a candle that
eventually is extinguished, successfully provides light for a person day
after day. In the summertime, when the Tinokos Shel Beis Rabban--the
schoolchildren--study less than when in school, we should try to make up the
slack by learning a little more ourselves.
3. It
is said in the name of Gedolim, that one should make Brachos aloud in order
to cause others to answer “Amen.” This special level of gratitude and faith
serves as an affirmation and reaffirmation of Hashem’s control over the
world, obviating the need for Hashem to remind us personally in other ways.
For an excellent review of this concept, you can order the tape “Attitude of
Gratitude” (Rabbi Jonathan Rietti and Rabbi Yechiel Spero) from the Chofetz
Chaim Heritage Foundation at 845-352-3505.
As is
evident from all of the above, Hashem is not asking that we stand on our
hands, stretch or shrivel, or do 180 degree flips! Some nicely-made
Brachos, some additional Torah study, some self-control in situations which
last only a fleeting moment anyway, can be literally life-saving--as we
light up the darkness long enough and strong enough for us to survive until
daybreak.
------------------------------------------------
A
NOTE FOR SHIVA ASAR B’TAMMUZ:
We typically remember that the first frightful event that happened on Shivah
Assar B’Tammuz was Moshe Rabbeinu’s breaking of the Shnei Luchos which
contained the Aseres Hadibros, as a result of the sin of the Golden Calf.
If only the people had shown enough faith to wait one more day for their
venerable and venerated leader, their happiness and dancing would have
resulted in the greatest Simchas Torah ever(!). Instead, we still feel the
pain from the torturous event.
In
fact, there was one prior significant event on this fateful day which
preceded the breaking of the Luchos. The Luach Dovor B’Ito writes
that the Yona, the dove sent by Noach out of the Ark, could not find a place
to land and so returned to the Teiva (Bereishis 8:8). The obvious question
is, why would Noach bother sending the dove out without any indication
whatsoever (from Hashem directly, or otherwise) that the waters had
receded? Was he taking a stab in the dark? We may posit that Noach sensed
or knew that the day was right for renewal and joy. The fact that the dove
returned indicated to him that it was he and his family, representing all of
mankind, who were the ones not ready for this renewal. The same lesson
carried through on this date to the Golden Calf, and thereafter the
subsequent tragedies on this day in which our people’s spiritual growth was
stunted rather than cultivated.
The
Three Weeks in front of us should not be viewed as a burden to be overcome,
evidenced by our expression to others to have ‘an easy time of it’. Instead,
it should be a meaningful and important time in which we hope, pray and take
action. Depression and despair should not be the hallmark of these days,
for they may evidence a breach or lack of faith which is the antithesis of
spiritual growth. We should learn from the gift of gravity that Hashem has
given us to always keep both feet firmly on the ground despite the forces
working against us.
It is
the custom of some to recite “Tikun Chatzos” during the Three Week period
(see Rabbi Webster’s Halacha discussion below)--some even in the middle of
the day. We may not as yet be on this level. However, we provide a
suggestion that we have made in the past--If we can conclude the Yehi Ratzon
at the end of Shemone Esrei with Kavannah during these three weeks, three
times a day, we will have sincerely davened for the Beis Hamikdash and our
redemption more than 60 times during this short period! Rather than
wallowing in self-pity, we will demonstrate a renewal of our faith and have
beautifully affirmed our supreme goals.
In the
merit of our prayers, may we see with our own eyes the ultimate redemption
at the beginning of the short period of special, focused thought that lies
ahead.
------------------------------------------------
HALACHOS OF FASTING:
HaRav Yisroel Dov Webster, Shlita, noted Posek, Dayan--Sha’arei Mishpat, and
author of The Halachos of Pregnancy and Childbirth, gives a Hakhel
Halacha Shiur in Boro Park. We provide below a review by Rabbi Webster of
the Halachos of fasting. As with all Halachos, in case of one’s particular
circumstances, he/she should consult with his/her own Rav or Posek:
Five
tragedies occurred on Shivah Assar B’Tammuz (Ta’anis 26b, Rambam Hilchos
Ta’anis 5-2):
1.
The walls of the second Bais Hamikdash were breached by the Roman
general Titus. (The Talmud Yerushalmi (Ta’anis 4:5) maintains that the
breaching of the walls during the first Bais Hamikdash occurred on the
seventeenth of Tammuz. The Talmud Bavli (Ta’anis 29a) however, maintains
that the breach of the walls of the first Bais Hamikdash occurred on the
ninth of Tammuz).
2. The
two daily sacrifices (Korban Tamid) ceased during the first Bais Hamikdash
because the Kohanim were unable to find a lamb to offer as a Korban.
[Hakhel Note: It is no coincidence, as it never is, that we learn of the
Korban Tamid in this week’s Parasha].
3.
The first set of Luchos was broken when Moshe Rabbeinu descended Har Sinai.
4.
Prior to the destruction of the second Bais Hamikdash, Apostomus, a Roman
officer, r’l burned the Torah.
5. An
idol was r’l erected in the Bais Hamikdash (Some say it was erected
by Apostomus, others say it was Menashe, the idolatrous king of Yehudah
during the first Bais Hamikdash ) (Ta’anis 28b, Rambam 5:2, Talmud
Yerushalmi Ta’anis 4:5, Rashi Ta’anis 26b).
Since
these five tragedies occurred on the seventeenth of Tammuz, Chazal
designated this day as a fast (Rambam, SA 649-1). The purpose of the
fast day is to stir our hearts and do Teshuva-repentance for our own deeds
and those of our forefathers (MB 549-1, KSA 121-1, Rabbi Chaim Brisker
ZT”L see TV Vol. 3-154, Moadim B’Halacha). One should not make a mistake
and think that by just refraining from eating and drinking one fulfills this
requirement and the purpose of the day. Just the opposite, one must search
one’s soul and repent for any sins that one may have committed, if one just
sits around and wastes the day without contemplating one’s deeds one has not
fulfilled the purpose of the fast. Similarly, one should not go on a
pleasure trip on a fast day (CA 133-1, MB-1, KSA 121-1, Sefer Erech
Apayim). In a situation that one does not need to fast (e.g. a sick
person), one nevertheless is required to do Teshuva (TV Vol. 3-154).
Chazal
did not prohibit all types of pleasures on this fast day as they did on
Tisha B’Av and Yom Kippur. On this fast, only eating and drinking were
prohibited. Washing, anointing, wearing leather shoes and marital relations
are permitted (SA 550-2, K’sav Sofer OC Vol. 100, see Likutai Hoaros on the
K’sav Sofer). Some are stringent upon themselves in the other prohibitions,
and only allow wearing leather shoes (MA 550-3 in the name of the Shelah, CA
133-7, MB-10), however, many do not follow this view. Washing for medical
purposes is permitted according to all opinions, even with hot water (MB
550-6, KH-13). Although washing with cold water is permitted and therefore
one is permitted to go swimming on this fast day, some Poskim are of the
opinion that one should not go swimming on this day (BM Vol. 3-77). Other
Poskim permit one to go into the water to cool oneself off if it is a hot
day or for health reasons (Rivevos Ephraim Vol. 1. 363 (1), BM). Some are
stringent and do not eat meat or drink wine before or after a fast (Marshal
92, ER 558-4, KH 564-12).
On all
fast days other than Yom Kippur and Tisha B’Av, an ill person should not
fast even if the illness is not life-threatening (MB 550-4, KH -7). One
should consult with his Rav in all situations.
Some
Poskim are of the opinion that a pregnant woman or nursing mother should
fast. If she is suffering or is very weak, even if there is no danger to her
life, she should not fast (SA 554-5, MB-5, YO Vol. 7-49). Other Poskim
disagree, and rule that a pregnant woman or nursing mothers are not required
to fast (Nitai Gavriel 2:6). The Steipler Rav ZT”L held that if she is a
little weak she does not need to fast on this day (Orchos Rabbeinu Vol. 2
Page 127).
Those
that are not required to fast should not indulge in sweets and candies. Even
young children above the age of six years old, if they understand the
meaning of the fast, should not be given chocolate and cake, but only that
which is necessary for their sustenance (MA 550-2, DT 550, MB-5, Nitai
Gavriel 2-4, KH 550-9, BM Vol. 8-98). If a child takes items by himself,
then one is not required to stop him (BM).
One is
permitted to brush one’s teeth with a dry toothbrush on all minor fast days
except Yom Kippur and Tisha B’Av. If this causes discomfort, it is
permissible to brush one’s teeth with toothpaste and water, (except for Yom
Kippur and Tisha B’Av). However, one must be careful not to lean one’s head
back so as not to swallow any water (MB 567-11, AH-3, BM Vol. 8-94, Minchas
Yitzchok Vol. 2-109). One is permitted to swallow one’s saliva (MB 567-13,
see CA 132-22, Bais Meir, ME 612-7).
It is
permissible for an ill person to take medication on minor fast days. A pill
or bitter-tasting liquid medicine should be taken without water, if
possible. If one needs water, only a small amount should be taken. Some add
salt or other substance to the water to make it somewhat bitter (Halachos
Ketanos Vol. 2-97, KH 554-34, Igros Moshe OC Vol. 3-91, TE Vol. 10-25 Chap.
22, Yalkut Yoseph, Daas Torah 567-1).
If one
made a mistake and recited a bracha and then remembered that it is a fast
day, one should not taste the food but rather say “Boruch Shem K’vod
Malchuso Leolam Vaed” (ST 568-1, MH 7-80,TV Vol. 1-329, YO Vol. 2 YD-5).
If one
made a mistake and ate something on the fast day, one should nevertheless
continue to fast. One is not obligated to fast another day (Matai Ephraim
602-23, Maharsham Vol. 4-20, MB 549-3 & 548-8, KH 549:7, YD, TV Vol. 1-328).
One
should make the special effort not to get angry on a fast day (ER 568-18).
==============================
16 Tammuz
SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
We continue our Summer Improvement Program, with simple suggestions, on a
weekly basis, in each of the areas of Bein Adam LaMakom, Bein Adam
L’Chaveiro, and Bein Adam L’Atzmo. Of course, these are only
suggestions--but every person has the opportunity to join with others who
will be attempting the same successes. In the alternative, one can chart his
own improvement course on a weekly basis as well.
WEEK 3--PARASHAS PINCHOS
Bli neder, at least one time a day during this week, consciously do
the following:
Bein Adam LaMakom:
Respond to a news item, objective situation or personal circumstance with
the words “Ain Od Milevado”, and look up to Shomayim
Bein Adam L’Chaveiro:
Perform an unrequested Chesed before breakfast
Bein Adam L’Atzmo:
Do not ‘lose your cool’ even though it appears justifiable and may be even
correct to do so
------------------------------------------
WHO
IS LEADING?
We
provide the following essential teaching from Growth Through Torah,
by Rabbi Zelig Pliskin, Shlita (pages 350-352). Although the general
concept described below may be familiar to us all, we note the important
conclusion--which is there for all of us to put into daily practice:
“Chazal (Makos 10b) take note that Hashem initially told Bila’am not to go
with Balak’s messengers, who requested that he accompany them to curse Bnei
Yisrael. Hashem later told Bila’am that: ‘If these people came to call
you, arise, go with them.’
From here Chazal derive the principle, “In the way a man wishes to go, he is
led.”
If
a person wants to do evil, he will be able to do so. Of course, he will have
to pay a heavy price for the successful completion of his evil wishes.
Conversely, someone who wishes to study Torah and fulfill Hashem’s
commandments will be successful. For this, he will be greatly rewarded. When
you wish to travel along the proper path in life, you will be Divinely
assisted. Nothing stands in a way of a strong will. There are many things
that you may wish for half-heartedly, but when you strongly set your mind on
a particular goal, you will have the strength and abilities necessary to
meet that goal. What a person truly wants in life, he will usually obtain (Alei
Shur, pages 120-121).
Rabbi Avigdor Miller (Rejoice O Youth, page 1) comments that Hashem guides
that person who seeks wisdom, and the amount of guidance is in proportion to
the earnestness of the seeker.
When you feel a strong need for something, you will not feel the
difficulties which you encounter insurmountable, even though you might have
to work very hard to accomplish your goals. On the other hand, when you are
not strongly motivated to do something, you will procrastinate and it will
take you a very long time. Moreover, you will not do a very good job
(Chochmah U’Mussar, Vol.2, p.180).
It
is up to you to intensify your will to do good. The stronger your will, the
more you will actually accomplish. Lack of spiritual accomplishment does not
come from lack of ability, but from lack of will. Work on developing a
strong desire for spiritual growth and you will be amazed at the positive
changes you will experience.
Rabbi Ben Zion Yadler used to quote the Alter of Navardok, ‘There is no such
thing as ‘I cannot.’ What happens is that a person is missing the will and
then he claims that he cannot’ (Betuv Yerushalayim, p.116).”
Hakhel
Note: Yes you can!
------------------------------------------
REMEMBER--SEVER PANIM YAFOS!
Over
the Three Week period, one of a person’s great accomplishments would
be true improvement in Bein Adam L’Chaveiro. As the Chofetz Chaim
outlines at the outset of the Sefer Chofetz Chaim, the Second Beis
HaMikdash was destroyed because of the aveira of Sinas Chinam/Lashon Hara.
HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, in the Sefer Sifsei Chaim, writes that
Sever Panim Yafos--meeting and reacting to a person with thought, care and
pleasantness would be a great accomplishment resulting from the Three Week
period. Even when not meeting someone in person, HaRav Friedlander
continues, one should talk over the phone in a way in which the person on
the other end feels the smile. To aid in the sometimes difficult task, no
matter how busy or preoccupied you may be, we once again provide a check-off
calendar for the Three Weeks, starting Tuesday. If you feel that the
constant obligation to do so is too difficult, may we suggest that you
undertake this goal consciously, one or two or three times a day, or perhaps
with one or two or three specific people a day (could be family members or
difficult people to work or deal with!). We wish everyone Hatzlacha in this
endeavor, and may the Geulah Sheleimah be before us all!
|
TUESDAY |
WEDNESDAY |
THURSDAY |
FRIDAY |
SHABBOS |
SUNDAY |
MONDAY |
|
JULY 11
o
|
JULY 12
o
|
JULY 13
o
|
JULY 14
o
|
JULY 15
o
|
JULY 16
o
|
JULY .17
o
|
|
JULY 18
o
|
JULY 19
o
|
JULY 20
o
|
JULY 21
o
|
JULY 22
o
|
JULY 23
o
|
JULY 24
o
|
|
JULY 25
o
|
JULY 26
o
|
JULY 27
o
|
JULY 28
o
|
JULY 29
o
|
JULY 30
o
|
JULY 31
o
|
|
AUGUST 1
o
|
|
------------------------------------------
PRACTICAL NOTES IN PREPARATION OF TOMORROW’S TA’ANIS:
We
provide the following points and pointers regarding tomorrow’s Ta’anis, as
culled from the Mishna Berurah (Dirshu Edition). Of course, one should
consult with his own Rav or Posek on any question of Halacha that he may
have:
A. If
a person wants to eat or drink by waking up early before the Ta’anis, he
must so verbally state before going to sleep. It does not help for a person
to make this verbal statement one time (such as at the beginning of the
year)--and for it to work for many fasts. If a person recites Hamapil and
then remembered that he did not so state, the Ohr L’Tzion rules that
if it is necessary one may be lenient and so state even after reciting
Hamapil (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 564, Dirshu Note 4).
B. The
reason that the Shaliach Tzibbur recites Aneinu between the brachos of Go’el
Yisrael and Refa’einu is because of the Pesukim in Tehillim which are
juxtaposed: “…Hashem Tzuri V’Go’ali” (end of Kepitel 19) and “Ya’anecha
Hashem B’Yom Tzara…” (beginning of Kepitel 20) (ibid. 566 Mishna Berurah
seif katan 1).
C. If
the Shaliach Tzibbur forgot to say Aneinu between the brachos of Go’el
Yisrael and Refa’einu, then he should recite Aneinu in Shema Koleinu (as an
individual does at Mincha). If he did not remember to recite it then
either--even if he did not yet begin Retzei, then he should not go back to
recite it, but instead says it after completing Shemone Esrei and does not
conclude with a bracha (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 565, Mishna Berurah seif
katan 3, Dirshu Note 4).
D. If
an individual reciting Shemone Esrei mistakenly concludes Aneinu with the
bracha of Baruch Atta Hashem Ha’oneh B’Eis Tzara rather than
Baruch Atta Hashem Shomei’ah Tefillah--HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach,
Z’tl, and HaRav Chaim Kanievsky rule that he must recite the bracha of Shema
Koleinu again. HaRav Tzvi Pesach Frank, Z’tl, rules that he does not (ibid.
Dirshu Note 5).
E. The
reason that we lein Parashas Vayichal on a Ta’anis is because the
Inyan HaYom is to plead for Selicha and Rachamim, and in this Parasha
Moshe Rabbeinu asked for Selicha and Rachamim on behalf of all of K’lal
Yisrael. Additionally, we show our hope that just as Hashem forgave us for
the Cheit Ha’eigel and gave us the Luchos Sheniyos--so too do we hope that
Hashem will forgive us for our sins and return the Beis HaMikdash to us! We
then repeat the leining again at Mincha because it is a special Eis Ratzon
(ibid. 566, Dirshu Note 1).
F. In
the course of the leining, the Ba’al Kriya stops and the Tzibbur begins to
recite the 13 Middos, beginning with the words “Hashem, Hashem”,
which is in the middle of a Pasuk. How can we start in the middle of a Pasuk?
The Sha’arei Ephraim answers that we may do so because we are not
reciting it as a Pasuk but as a Techina U’bakasha. The Chazzan does
not, however, recite the words with the Tzibbur--but instead waits for the
Tzibbur to finish, and then recites the Pesukim. This is because he is in
the middle of leining--and it is inappropriate for him to make a bakasha at
this time (ibid. Dirshu Notes 4 and 5).
G. The
Shulchan Aruch expressly writes that one who is engaged in a Ta’anis should
not conduct himself in a leisurely way, nor be lightheaded--rather, he
should be solemn and serious, as the Pasuk says: “Mah Yisonein Adam Chai”.
The Mishna Berurah adds that especially on a Ta’anis when one may be more on
edge--he should be sure not to get angry, and if he must do business he
should be sure to do so with faith and serenity--so that he does not come to
anger at all (ibid. 568:12, Mishna Berurah seif katan 50).
H. In
all events, as the Mishna Berurah expressly instructs: “Ve’ein HaTa’anis
Elah Hachana L’Teshuvah--a Ta’anis is only a preparation for Teshuvah”
(ibid. 549 Mishna Berurah seif katan 1). Let us remember this--let us
prepare ourselves!
==============================
13 Tammuz
AN
OUTSTANDING QUOTE (IN YIDDISH):
HaRav
Yeruchem Levovitz, Z’tl, is quoted as follows: “Zerizus is Nisht in De
Fis, Zerizus is in De Kup--the middah of alacrity is not based on the
reaction of one’s feet--but on that of one’s mind.” HaRav Ezriel Erlanger,
Shlita, explains that Zerizus is really an attitude--it is
a mental alertness to accomplish one’s mission and goals expediently and
efficiently. Hakhel Note: Everyone can work on Zerizus--it is an
attitude!
----------------------------------------------------------
YOU
WILL AFFECT HIS FUTURE!
The Chofetz Chaim writes that if one listens to Lashon Hara--even with the
specific intent not to believe it--he is Nosein Yad L’Poshim--he
is spreading intentional sin. Why? Because if a person speaking sees that
his Lashon Hara is being listened to today, then he will try again
tomorrow--with you or someone else. On the other hand, one who responds
by saying: “I do not want to listen to this” or “This is not for me” will
discourage the speaker from speaking Lashon Hara in the future--to
you and to others. Thus, by stopping the wrongdoer--you are not only
protecting yourself with the proper response, the Chofetz Chaim teaches, but
you may be helping the person who started to speak improperly--for the
rest of his life--and all to your credit! Hakhel Note: We remind our
readers that if one has heard Lashon Hara before he had the chance to stop
it, or before he realized what was coming--he still has a way out of the
issur. One should immediately search for a zechus regarding the
one spoken about--which has the effect of undoing the Lashon Hara
that was theretofore spoken. This is one of those rare instances--like
Teshuvah--in which one can actually undo that which may have been
done. Remember to use it--and to tell others about it!
----------------------------------------------------------
EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS
OF SHABBOS SERIES:
We
continue our annual
review of Summer
Shabbos Shailos, with the
Teshuvos of Rabbi
Yisroel Belsky,
Z’tl, to us:
DRINKING OVER GRASS
QUESTION: On Shabbos my bungalow colony makes kiddush after
davening. Can we make it on the grass?
ANSWER:
The
Shulchan Aruch says that you shouldn’t drink water on Shabbos
near where there are plants growing, because it might fall upon and nurture
them, thus constituting toldos of zore’ah and choresh.
But, drinking wine is acceptable, because it doesn’t help the grass or
growing plants.
QUESTION: What about other drinks?
ANSWER:
They
should be treated as water. Since most of the drinks that we have fall into
that category, one shouldn’t have a lawn kiddush on Shabbos.
QUESTION: What about drinking over lawns where one doesn’t care about the
grass or the grass is half dead anyway? Or if it has just rained?
ANSWER:
This
is a strange question. As far I know, in most places, people do pay a lot of
attention to ensure that the patches of ruined grass are re-seeded or
patches of sod are put on them. It is the wish of each individual or
bungalow colony committee to see that the place looks nice. Whenever there
is a drought for a period of time and grass begins to turn yellow, people do
worry. Therefore, it is practically never true that people are not concerned
about the condition of the grass. You will see directly before and after the
summer season, large amounts of money are spent on improving or restoring
the grass. If we just had a heavy rain outside and the grass was soaked, it
would be permitted to have a kiddush on the grass. However, I don’t
think that people would really want to attend such a kiddush on
unpleasant, heavily rain-soaked grass.
INSECT REPELLENT
QUESTION: On Shabbos is a person permitted to spray insect repellent
on one’s hands?
ANSWER:
Yes.
There is no choleh and the spray is not remedying an ailment.
RETURNING A WINDOW SCREEN ON SHABBOS
QUESTION: If someone’s window screen fell out on Shabbos, is a person
allowed to put it back on Shabbos?
ANSWER:
I
think that if the screen is of the old simple type that you easily put in
and take out, it is not considered a chelek or part of the actual
window. In such a case, you would be allowed to either insert or remove it.
However, the more modern window screens which are more a chelek of
the window would be forbidden to insert or remove on Shabbos.
ASKING A NON-JEW TO DO CERTAIN MELACHOS FOR YOU ON SHABBOS
QUESTION: Are you allowed to ask a non-Jew to turn on the air
conditioner on Shabbos?
ANSWER:
I
remember when air conditioning was non-existent. However, today, it has
become such a necessity. I imagine that if the situation was very
uncomfortable, one could ask a non-Jew to turn on the air
conditioner, especially as air conditioners work on electricity. Unlike
creating heat, creating electricity that runs the air conditioner is not a
Melacha DeOraysa. It is probably even less problematic to ask a
non-Jew to turn off the air conditioner if the room is too cold. Just
as you can ask a non-Jew to put on the heat in winter in order to
prevent people from becoming sick, you can similarly ask a non-Jew to
turn off the air conditioner if you are trying to prevent people from
getting sick from the extreme cold generated by the air conditioner.
QUESTION: If the circuit breaker went off on Shabbos, is one allowed
to ask a non-Jew to restore it?
ANSWER:
Simply
put, there are times at night when if you don’t have electricity, it
constitutes Sakanos Nefashos. It is simply dangerous, especially if
you have children who are going around at night without light. In
such a dangerous situation, you can certainly ask a non-Jew to
restore the electricity.
QUESTION: Are you allowed to ask a non-Jew to restore the electricity
merely in order to save the food from spoiling?
ANSWER:
The
answer is yes. However, if the food is not endangered, but it is a question
of just keeping the soda colder, you should not ask a non-Jew to fix
the circuit breaker. If you had cholent in an electric crock pot when
the circuit breaker went out, the cholent is still hot and the electricity,
if restored, will stop other food from spoiling, as before, you may ask a
non-Jew to restore the electricity
TRAPPING A BEE OR WASP ON SHABBOS
QUESTION: If I notice a bee or wasp flew into my home, can I close the
window if that will cause the bee or wasp to be trapped in between the
window and the screen?
ANSWER:
The
Klal is that if you have a little creature that can sting you and you
are afraid that it will sting you, then you are allowed to capture it. The
reason is because it is something that you really don’t want to capture for
any use or purpose. Indeed, you would like it to just go away and escape to
the wilds of Australia. Therefore, you are allowed to trap it on Shabbos,
but you should try to avoid trapping it directly.
USE OF ELECTRIC WATER COOLERS ON SHABBOS
QUESTION: I have an electric water cooler. Is it a problem to use on
Shabbos? If not, am I permitted to change the empty bottle?
ANSWER:
A
water cooler is like a refrigerator. In fact, it is a refrigerator. It
contains a chamber with five, six, seven or eight cups of water. You take a
cup of water and another comes into it from the bottle. The temperature
rises by a couple of degrees and after a while, a mechanism will trigger the
thermostat to start the compressor, kicking in the cooling system again.
With a refrigerator, there are many people who are machmir not to
open it in order to take something out (or return a food item) unless the
motor is running. If the motor is running, you will not trigger the
thermostat to turn it on. It is possible that with a water cooler, there is
less stringency involved than with regard to a regular refrigerator, because
the hot air that comes in when you open a refrigerator, is going to result
in the release from the refrigerator itself of a lot of cold air into the
room, because it is a very large appliance. The release of the cold air from
the refrigerator will result in the influx of warm air from the room into
the refrigerator, which will surely trigger the compressor to start within a
very short period of time. The water cooler on the other hand is a closed
system and only that one cup that you take will be replaced by another cup.
Maybe five or six cups are required to trigger off the system. Regarding
replacing an empty bottle of water into a water cooler on Shabbos,
doing so would surely trigger the thermostat and compressor to initiate the
cooling system and should not be done, if you are machmir about
opening refrigerators when the motor is not running.
REPEATING HAVDALAH FOR LITTLE CHILDREN ON SUNDAY MORNING
QUESTION: I have small children who cannot stay up until the end of
Shabbos. Do they have to make Havdalah on Sunday morning?
ANSWER:
Rabbosai,
you have to make Havdalah for little children. I’ll tell you a very
interesting Halacha. If a little child did not hear Havdalah,
but the parent was yotzei Havdalah in shul, the father could make
Havdalah with a brocha and be motzi the little child. I have
always made an effort to have my children listen to Havdalah (on
Motza’ei Shabbos). And if that was not possible, I would have the child
recite Havdalah from a siddur the next morning. If the child
is too young to make Havdalah the next morning, then he is not
considered to have reached the age of chinuch (education in
mitzvos) for Havdalah and can do without hearing it.
-------------------------------------------------
POINTS AND POINTERS ON THIS WEEK’S PARASHA,
PARASHAS BALAK:
A. HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, observes that Bilam is more
severely criticized than Balak. Why is this so?
After all, was it not Balak who started the whole
process? Was he not the one who instigated Bilam, inducing him to come, and
moving him from one mizbe’ach to another? Yet, Balak
counts Rus as one of his descendants, while Bilam’s name lives in infamy
forever. HaRav Kanievsky explains that Balak acted
in fear--having observed first-hand what happened as a result of the wars of
Bnei Yisrael against Sichon and Og. Bilam, on the other hand, was a
non-party to all of this, and joined in only because of his Middos
Mushchasos--his destructive or rotten Middos. HaRav Kanievsky notes
that all of those listed in the Mishna in Sanhedrin (90A) as not having a
portion in the World to Come, lost their portion because of Middos
Mushchasos. With this, we can understand the great contrast provided in
the Mishna in Avos (5:22) between the students of Avraham Avinu and the
students of Bilam HaRasha. The differences: Ayin Tova vs. Ayin Ra’ah,
Ruach Nemucha vs. Ruach Gevoha, and Nefesh Shefalah vs. Nefesh Rechava
should therefore be especially focused upon this week. Chazal are
incredibly telling us that above and beyond their differences in Torah,
Tefillah, and Emunah, what rests at the heart of the distinction between
Avraham Avinu and his future generations, and Bilam HaRasha and his
followers are (as explained by Rabbeinu Ovadia M’Bartenura):
a. Ayin Tova-- being satisfied with what one has and not
desiring the money or possessions of others. Example: You do not need
a summer home, and if you have one, you do not need his or her
summer home.
b. Ruach Nemucha--humble spirit. According to the Sefer
Sha’arei Teshuva, this includes a person not being
Machazik Tova to himself, and not seeking Kavod for the honorable things
that he does or accomplishes.
c. Nefesh Shefalah--deemphasizing the desires of this
world. Indeed, there is a story of one of the Gedolim, who tasted ice
cream once and was so impressed with its good taste that he elected never to
eat it again.
B. “Mah Tovu Ohalecha Yaakov Mishkenosecha Yisrael”. We
recite this Pasuk upon entering Shul every morning. The Chasam Sofer notes
that there are two kinds of unacceptable behavior when it comes to one’s
relationship with his Bais HaKnesses or Bais HaMidrash. Some are hesitant
to go to Shul, claiming that they can learn better at home, or accomplish
more in their office. To them, the Shul is only an Ohel. To another who
frequents the Shul or Bais Midrash, the Shul may appear to lose a tad of its
sanctity, as he talks loudly across the Shul, walks around with food or
drink in his hand, and even engages in friendly conversations on all kinds
of topics here and there. Thus, he slightly abrogates the Mikdash
nature of the Makom Kadosh, although leaving it as a Mishkan--the
place that he frequents. It is for this reason, the Chasam Sofer continues,
that we immediately recite the next Pasuk (from Tehillim 5:8) “Va’ani
BeRov Chasdecha Avoh Vaisecha--Hashem, I know that it is only because of
Your great Chesed that I can enter”; moreover, “Eshtachaveh El Heichal
Kadshecha BeYirasecha--I bow towards the Holy Heichal in fear of You.”
With these important words, we demonstrate our appreciation, and our
inestimable value of the Makom that we are about to enter.
Hakhel Note: As we have mentioned in the past, although Mah Tovu is
only recited when one enters Shul in the morning, many recite the Pasuk “Va’ani
BeRov Chasdecha” (in a bowed position) when they enter Shul and other
times during the day as well. We can now understand why!
C. Another aspect of Mah Tovu is Bilam’s special awareness on how
Klal Yisrael treats the right of privacy of others--as he noticed how the
entrance ways to each person’s tent was carefully positioned not to face
another’s entrance. There are many ways that we can inculcate this into our
daily lives: When walking by a house with a door open or the shades up, one
should not look in simply based upon the theory that they have left their
door open or windows uncovered--so they must not care so much about it.
Indeed, one should be careful not to do so even absentmindedly. As noted in
the past, in our day and age, we may also include peeking in to someone’s
car as they are driving (even if they have pulled up next to you at a
light). We can also add to the list listening in to the conversation
between two people which is obviously between them--even if they have not
asked you to leave so as not to shame you. Rabbi Zelig Pliskin, Shlita, in
his Sefer Love Your Neighbor, adds: Because of our obligation to
respect the privacy of others, Rabbeinu Gershom placed a Chairem on reading
someone else’s mail without permission (Be’er HaGolah, Yorah Deiah
334:123). Even parents should not read the mail of their children without
permission (see Rav Chaim Palaji, p. 18). We update this a bit by adding
finally that Mah Tovu also reminds us not to look at the emails of
others without their permission--and all the more so when you have received
an email for someone in error. Curiosity was never claimed as one of the
great Jewish traits, and we should not start the Minhag now.
------------------------------------------------
THE PARASHA’S ENDING:
The Parasha this week ends with the sad event of Bnei Yisrael
falling prey to the Bnos Midyan and their deceit. As with all sin--we must
get to its root, its source. What caused this sin? How did the Bnei
Yisrael get involved with the Bnos Midyan at this late stage of their
encampment in the desert, after so many years of extraordinarily miraculous
living in the Midbar--as they were soon to approach their destination--Eretz
Yisrael? Rabbi Shmuel Smith, Shlita, brings the words of the Pasuk (Bamidbar
25:1) “Veyeishev Yisrael BaShitim…--and Bnei Yisrael camped in Shitim”.
This can be interpreted to mean, Chazal teach, that they went out into the
foreign environment (Shatu) of the gentile nations to see how they
lived. Rather than appreciating the extremely important lessons that Hashem
taught them--how they could be successful and live an extraordinary
existence if they remained separate and distinct--they ventured out to see
how the people around them lived--what these people did and how they did
it. The tragedy that resulted was transgression compounded by
transgression--as they first sinned with the daughters of Midyan and went on
to worship Avodah Zara. Incredibly, what Bilam could not accomplish with
his expertise and mastery at sorcery and cursing--the people brought
upon themselves by leaving the protection and confines of their
Torah environment. As we reel from the ruling of the Supreme Court of the
United States, requiring its residents (as preeminent representatives of the
western world) to legalize immorality, and combine this with the summer
months (in the northern hemisphere), in which we are subjected to terribly
inappropriate settings, surroundings and atmospheres--we must take the
lesson from the Bnos Midyan event--and lean much to the side of Pinchas Ben
Elazar--who went far out of his way to combat what had quickly become the
‘acceptable’ standard.
Sometimes a little bit of something is good. Here, however, the
Vilna Gaon (Even Shelaima 1:7) in his great wisdom notes: “A man
should never say, ‘I will follow my physical lust and inquisitive desires a
little and afterwards will withdraw from them.’ For as a man begins to draw
toward them he becomes busy and forfeits his eternal life completely. For
it is very difficult to withdraw from them. Even the man who fears Hashem,
who is versed in the Torah, and observes the mitzvos, when he draws toward
lust, he will lose all.”
To reiterate the practical teaching HaRav Yisroel Belsky, Z’tl, to
those working in the city: “To the extent possible, put your head down, and
walk in a determined manner to your destination.” Similarly, for women,
extreme caution must be exercised as to where one goes, what one sees, and
how one dresses. One should not allow himself the excuse that what is around
us is the “norm” way of the world, and that we cannot get around it. It
cannot be a ‘norm’--if it is not acceptable. Instead, what is--or should
be--considered normal is the way Hashem wants us to conduct ourselves.
Rabbi Yisroel Reisman, Shlita, reiterates this with the following essential
teaching: A Kiddush Hashem is not doing what people like or think is
right--but what Hashem says is right.
The task is a difficult one--both from the Yetzer Hara within, and
the Yetzer Hara without. Chazal teach that according to the effort is the
reward (Avos: 5:26). We are in Galus, a bitter Galus. Rabbi Smith concludes
that if we really want to leave this Galus and achieve Geula, we must
demonstrate that we are different, and that we conduct ourselves by a
different set of rules.
It is “hand-to-hand combat” out there for each and every one of
us--but what greater victory can there be than each of us doing more than
our part in bringing the Geulah!
Additional Note: On Motz’ai Shabbos, we recite the words of
Havdala: “HaMavdil Bein Kodesh Lechol, Bein Ohr Lechoshech Bein
Yisrael La’Amim Bein Yom HaShevii LeSheishes Yemei HaMa’aseh--Who
separated the holy and the profane, the light from the darkness, Yisrael
from the other nations...”. Rabbi Smith said that he heard from a Rav that
these words teach us that the same Havdala---the same separation--that
exists between the holy and the profane, between the light and the
darkness--is the separation that exists between K’lal Yisrael and the
nations. It is our mandate and our duty--to live it on a daily
basis--until the Geulah Sheleima may it come speedily and in our day--today!
==============================
12 Tammuz
12
TAMMUZ:
According to the daughter of HaRav Elchanan Wasserman, Z’tl, H’yd, he was
killed Ahl Kiddush Hashem on either the 12th or 13th
of Tammuz in 5701 (1941). HaRav Elchanan teaches that the words “Nachamu
Nachamu Ami” refer to a double nechama--the first nachamu
for the disasters and suffering experienced by the world at large that we
live through and experience together with them, and a second nachamu
for the punishment meted out directly against us. Let us daven to Hashem
that He provide the double nechama that we all need without
the need of any further reminders, tribulations or harm.
-------------------------------------------------
FROM A READER:
“The Sefer Shulchan Gavo’ah brings from the Chofetz Chaim that one
who recites the bracha of Asher Yatzar with Kavannah has the ability to
quash many sicknesses. A Talmid Chochom of a previous generation relates
that he once visited the Chofetz Chaim and noted that when the Chofetz Chaim
recited Asher Yatzar he did so from a Siddur, moving his finger from word to
word as he recited it.”
----------------------------------------------
A
WONDERFUL TEACHING FROM RABBEINU YONAH:
“An
advantage accruing to one who breaks a physical desire is that if at a later
time his Yetzer Hara urges upon him the commission of a wicked deed or
transgression, he will reasonably think to himself: ‘I did not grant my
desire for what is permitted; how, then, could I stretch forth my hand for
what is forbidden?!’” (Sefer Sha’arei Teshuvah 1:32)
----------------------------------------------
WITHIN 30 DAYS:
The
following is excerpted from the foreword by HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita
(Mattisyahu Chaim Ben Ettel L’Refuah Sheleimah), to the Sefer Yearning
with Fire by Rabbi Heshy Kleinman, Shlita:
”Who
among us mourns for Yerushalayim? Who among us appreciates what we are
missing? Who among us pleads with Hashem for a rebuilt Yerushalayim because
he feels an aching need for it? Who among us exclaims in complete
sincerity, “If I forget you, O Yerushalayim, may my right hand forget its
power”? The Yerushalayim for which we long so desperately and whose loss we
have mourned for thousands of years - it is not the land and the buildings
of Yerushalayim that we miss. It is the supreme connection with Hashem that
Yerushalayim represents. Recreating Yerushalayim in our imaginations as a
conduit for our prayers is the best available to us right now, but it is no
comparison to a rebuilt Yerushalayim, crowned with a shining Temple in which
the Divine Presence will dwell forever. Only when we appreciate what
Yerushalayim represents and what we have lost can we grieve over its
destruction….Deep in our hearts, we must recreate the exalted idea of
Yerushalayim, of unity among all Jews in the quest for ever greater
closeness to Hashem. If only we can do this, Hashem may just decide to let
us see Yerushalayim rebuilt speedily in our days!”
Hakhel
Note: Chazal teach that within thirty days of a Yom Tov, we are to begin
learning about that Yom Tov. As we know, Tisha B’Av is referred to as a ‘Mo’ed’--and
it would behoove us to begin thinking the thoughts during these thirty
advance days of Yerushalayim and the need for our Geulah. In his masterful
work, Yearning with Fire, Rabbi Kleinman explains how one can do his
part in fulfillment and accomplishment of Tzipisah LiShuah. This
clear and movingly written Sefer is divided into 5-minute a day segments, to
study over an 89 day period. If one starts today, he will finish
approximately on Yom Kippur. Hopefully our Geulah will have taken place
well before then--while one is in the process of longing for it! In all
events--after 120 years one of the questions a person is asked is ‘Tzipisah
LiShuah--did you truly anticipate the redemption?’ If one has read the
Sefer, he certainly has the beginnings of a good answer…and if one applies
what he learned from the Sefer--he will have even a better answer
----------------------------------------------
THE
KNOCK AT THE DOOR:
HaRav Yecheskel Levenstein, Z’tl was well known for the famous Mashal of a
very ill person in the home for whom the doctor had been summoned. Every
time there was a knock at the door, every time the phone or doorbell rang,
the family members jumped--was it the doctor?! Even though it turned out to
be a well wishing neighbor, a repairman, or someone else, the family was
courteous and did not despair—the doctor would still come with the next
knock—and would come in time, for he had to, they knew it because they
believed it. This, HaRav Levenstein taught, should be our anticipation for
Moshiach--even though the knocks on the door until today have not been what
we have been waiting for--the real knock will most certainly come--and
hopefully at the earliest possible next moment. The Six-Day War and no
Moshiach, the Yom Kippur War and no Moshiach, the Lebanese War and no
Moshiach, the Gaza War and no Moshiach--and now a new Gaza War is before
us--is this it?!
It is
very well known that the Brisker Rav was heard to say the three-word
Pasuk---LiShuasecha Kivisi Hashem (Bereishis 49:18) …For Your
salvation do I long—several times throughout the day. It is no coincidence
(as it never is) that this Pasuk is placed in the Siddur at the end of the
13 Ani Ma’amins that we recite daily.
We all
know that the redemption will come—this is part of world history,
established by Hashem at the time of the world’s creation. Our thoughts and
our Tefillos should be permeated by a sincere and unrelenting want and
desire that we ourselves be zocheh to see it—”Bechayechon U’Vyomeichon”—in
your lifetimes, and in your days. We owe it to ourselves and to our destiny
to be able to answer the Question: “Tzipisa LiYeshua?” with a clear
and truthful--better yet--a resounding and resourceful: “Yes –LiShuasecha
Kivisi Hashem!!”
Hakhel
Note: We don’t know when the knock will be the real one. B’EH if we are at
that point--here is our reminder as to the four brachos that (it is said in
the name of HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl) are said upon the arrival of
Moshiach:
(i) Baruch Chacham Harazim (over the 600,000 that will be present);
(ii) Shechalak Meichachmaso LiReiav (over the Moshiach as Gadol HaDor); (iii)
Shechalak MiKevodo LiReiav (over the Moshiach as king); and (iv) Shehechiyanu (over
reaching the Moshiach’s arrival). We note that according to HaRav Chaim
Kanievsky, Shlita, the bracha of Shehechiyanu over the arrival of
Moshiach is mei’ikar hadin.
==============================
11 Tammuz
REMINDER--SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
-----------------------------------------------
TESHUVAH HIGHLIGHTS!
The
following is gleaned from the Sefer Sha’arei Teshuvah:
A. It
is proper for all who are involved in Teshuvah to keep a written record of
those areas in which they believe they have gone astray, and of those
Mitzvos in the fulfillment of which they have fallen short, and to review
these memoranda daily.
B.
There are many levels of Teshuvah, in accordance with which one draws near
to HaKadosh Baruch Hu. One may understand it in the same manner as a garment
that needs washing. A little washing will suffice to remove the surface
dirt, and with more and more washing will it become cleaner, until it
becomes entirely clean.
C.
The Pasuk in Mishlei (20:17) teaches: “Areiv LeIsh Lechem Shaker VeAchar
Yimalei Fihu Chatzatz…bread of falsehood is sweet to a man; but
afterwards his mouth will be filled with gravel.” The lesson of the Pasuk
applies not only to falsehood and truth, but to all iniquities of
impulsiveness and desire.
Hakhel
Note: The Chofetz Chaim writes that the first place to start with Teshuvah
is with dibbur--as the Kohen Gadol on Yom Hakippurim demonstrates by
bringing the Ketores (which Chazal teach is mechaper on Lashon Hara
b’chashai) upon entering the Kodesh HaKedoshim!
-----------------------------------------------
VISITING ERETZ YISRAEL?
If one intends to visit Eretz Yisrael this summer and davens Nusach Ashkenaz
in Chutz La’aretz--does he recite Morid HaTal in Shemone Esrei like the Bnei
Eretz Yisrael--and does he skip Boruch Hashem LeOlam Amein V’Amein at
Ma’ariv?
-----------------------------------------------
ON NOT PAYING WORKERS ON TIME:
A. An employer who entirely refuses to pay, or deducts even one perutah (the
smallest coin of value) from the money he owes his workers, is considered a
thief and is invalid to testify in court; In doing so, the employer violates
five Torah prohibitions and one positive commandment.
B. When hiring a worker, one should set a price before the worker begins the
job. Otherwise, the worker might finish the job and demand a price higher
than the employer is willing to pay. The employer will then face a difficult
choice between risking cheating his worker, who does not wholeheartedly
agree to compromise, or paying whatever a worker asks.
C. A Torah scholar should certainly be careful to set a price with his
workers, since a chillul Hashem could arise if there is a debate about
payment.
[Excerpted from The Concise Ahavas Chesed The Classic Work
of the Chofetz Chaim Adapted to a Daily Learning Schedule in English
by Rabbi Asher Wasserman, Shlita]
-------------------------------------------
FOUR IMPORTANT POINTS ON OUR DAILY DAVENING:
A. Regarding the Posuuk Va’ani Berov Chasdecha…Eshtachaveh El Heichal
Kadshecha, a reader pointed out that the Radak on this Posuk (Tehillim
5:8) writes that the term Heichal Kadshecha refers to the Heichal of
the Bais HaMikdash, “for when one bows towards Hashem he should envision the
Bais HaMikdash in front of him and bow to Hashem in front of it (!).”
B. The Rema (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 61:14) writes that when reciting
the first Posuk of Shema, one should stop in between Hashem and Elokeinu,
and then again between Elokeinu and the second mention of Hashem so that
one understands the Posuk to mean “Hear (Understand) Yisrael that
Hashem Who Is Elokeinu He Is the One and Only Hashem. One
should then pause for a moment before reciting Boruch Shem, because one’s
Ikar Kabalas Ohl Malchus Shomayim is in this first Posuk of Shema.
C. The Mishna (Brachos 34B) relates that Rebbi Chanina Ben Dosa could tell
whether his particular Tefillah was going to be accepted or not. The Gemara
explains that it was the FIRST bracha--the bracha of Avos--that is
determinative. If this bracha was recited well and without disturbance or
difficulty, and he felt that the bracha flowed from his heart, then he took
this as a sign that his Tefillah was acceptable and wanted. If, however,
the first Bracha did not go well, with the words not coming forth smoothly
and other thoughts causing him tirda, then he knew that the remainder
of his Tefillah was going to be problematic and c’v unanswered. We
believe that there is a great lesson here for each and every one of us. It
is extremely important that we focus on the First Bracha of Shemone Esrei,
putting in our strong efforts to make it Kavannah-filled and successful. If
we do so, B’EH, then it will be a Siman Tov for the rest of our Shemone
Esrei!
Hakhel
Note:
We remind our readers that an additional method of attaining Kavannah in the
first bracha of Shemone Esrei is by moving one’s finger word by word, or
short phrase by short phrase, and thinking of its plain meaning.
D. Chazal (ibid.) conclude that a person should not Daven in a room unless
it has windows. This is based on the Posuk in Sefer Doniyel, which
specifically states that “Windows were open in his attic” as he davened
towards Yerushalayim. Rashi explains that the windows are essential, for a
person looks up towards Heaven and humbles himself, which should greatly
assist his Kavanna in Tefillah. This serves as a lesson to us--we should
lift up our eyes to the Heavens, recognizing not just our humanity and
humility--but Hashem’s vastness and greatness.
-------------------------------------------------
THOUGHTS ON LIFE!
The Chofetz Chaim presents the following essential thought on daily life and
living:
1. The more one supports a Torah Scholar, the greater one’s portion in the
reward of his Torah is. One must be careful to always give the support
BeSever Panim Yafos--with the same feeling as one gives to one’s partner in
business who has made many great deals on his behalf with the money that has
been given to him (Sefer Ahavas Chesed, Chapter 20).
2. One should recognize that Dibur, the power of speech, is the ‘Chaviv
MeKol Chaviv’--so precious because with this power one completes his
Tzuras HaAdam. Therefore, just as one who has much silver, gold, and jewels
carefully secures and protects it, so too, should one carefully guard his
mouth and that which comes out of it (Sefer Shemiras HaLashon 2:2).
3. Only after Hashem made man out of dirt from the ground did he instill in
his nostrils a Nishmas Chaim (“Vayipach Beapav Nishmas Chaim”)--unlike
all the other animals who were created with their body and life spirit
simultaneously. There is a great lesson in this for us. We too, must take
the Afar Min HaAdama, the Gashmiyus of this world--and instill into
it a Ruach Chaim through our thoughts and words. Our life’s goal is to make
the physical spiritual. Look what we can do with our mouths--we can say
about a piece of wood, a stone, livestock or anything else that it is
“Kodesh LaHashem”, and with these words alone, one who violates the Kedusha
created would violate the laws of Me’ilah and could even c’v be liable for
Kareis (such as by shechting a Korban outside the Bais HaMikdash). One does
not, however, have to be in or near the Bais HaMikdash to apply this concept
of Vayipach Beapav Nishmas Chaim. When one, for instance, has the proper
thoughts and intents before eating--to be healthy in Hashem’s service and to
fulfill one’s role and potential in this world; when one has the proper
thoughts when engaged in his business or profession--so that he earn an
honest living without taking that which belongs to others, etc., then one
has breathed the breath of life into his daily activities. There is a great
difference between a person who works hard or toils with a Cheshbon
in mind throughout the day, and a person who merely goes from one daily task
to the next until he puts his body into a bed and goes to sleep. Before
beginning any activity--no matter how mundane--think of the Nishmas
Chaim that you intend to breathe into it! (Sefer Toras HaBayis,
Chasimas HaSefer)
==============================
10 Tammuz
SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
We continue our Summer Improvement Program, with simple suggestions, on a
weekly basis, in each of the areas of Bein Adam LaMakom, Bein Adam
L’Chaveiro, and Bein Adam L’Atzmo. Of course, these are only
suggestions--but every person has the opportunity to join with others who
will be attempting the same successes. In the alternative, one can chart his
own improvement course on a weekly basis as well.
WEEK 2--PARASHAS BALAK
Bli neder, at least one time
a day during this week, consciously do the following:
Bein Adam LaMakom:
HaRav Shimon Schwab, Z’tl,
writes that when one recites a bracha, he can consciously perform four
Mitzvos: Ahavas Hashem, Yiras Hashem, U’Le’avdo Bechol
Levavchem and U’Ledavka Vo. Before reciting a Birkas HaNehenin
have in mind these four Mitzvos!
Bein Adam L’Chaveiro:
Look at another person whom you
are familiar with, and think about how much behind him there is that you
really do not know--his Mitzvos, his life’s experiences, and the reasons he
may react to situations and circumstances in ways that are different from
you. Then, judge him favorably in something particular that occurred (or
keep it in mind for the future).
Bein Adam L’Atzmo:
Before reciting Shema at night,
make sure your last activity of the day is one of Ruchniyus--either
the study of Torah (even for only a short while), an act of Chesed, or the
performance of a Mitzvah.
----------------------------------------------------------
IT’S NOT JAIL--IT’S PARADISE!
It has been said of some of the anti-Chareidi element in Eretz Yisrael that
they are doing so in order to ‘liberate’ the Chareidim from the ‘jail’ that
they are in. According to their perverse understanding, Torah Jews do not
live a life of pleasantness and joy in Olam Hazeh, but instead one of
restraint and constriction. HaRav Ezriel Erlanger, Shlita, teaches that
these inciters do not realize that Yaakov Avinu and Eisav fought over
Nachlas Shnei Olamos--the inheritance of both worlds. This means that
Yaakov Avinu has an Olam Hazeh as well--and truth be told, we enjoy Olam
Hazeh more than they do! Indeed, as brought in the Sefer HaKuzari,
the king asked the chacham: Why Jews are so restricted in matters of Olam
Hazeh to the point that they even have to recite brachos before they
eat--why this yet ‘additional ‘burden’?! The chacham answered that the king
was oh, so mistaken. A bracha makes a person realize how much he has been
given and how much he has to appreciate--making the object all the more
pleasure-filled. Man is not just a physical being--but has a spiritual
essence, and seichel which is intended to elevate the mundane and the
material to a higher level--which in turn increases one’s enjoyment and
gratification in this world. Certainly, then, when it comes to the study of
Torah which in and of itself is Mesameiach Es Halev how joyful
and elated we are and should be. We are not in jail as the uneducated and
misguided would have it--but enjoying Gan Eden in this very
world!
----------------------------------------------------
AN
INTERNET THOUGHT:
At a Shiur in Flatbush, a Rav who realized that most if not all in his
audience were in some way utilizing the Internet and its services advised
that while the Internet can be an extremely valuable and even at times
necessary tool, one should be careful that his Internet usage not become
Intercheit. When does it become Intercheit? This is a fine line
which one can easily step over as the use of this amazing technology becomes
abuse--either because of the content, the addiction, or simply the wasted
time in searching, reading and rereading, and of the misinformation that one
may come across. One of the great rules of the Chofetz Chaim’s in the area
of Shemiras HaLashon was--if one is unsure whether to say something or not--the
proper choice is not to say it, for which one would not be faulted for
in the next world. Applying this thought, may we suggest that before going
on to the Internet, or moving from one site to another, one ask himself the
question: “Is this Internet or Intercheit?”, and if one is not sure….
----------------------------------------------------
THE GREATEST TEACHER:
Although each of us should have his Rosh Yeshiva, Rav, Posek, Rebbe, whom he
closely follows and whose guidance he adheres to, Rabbi Yosef Eisen, Shlita,
points out in the name of Gedolim that our first and most prominent teacher
is Avraham Avinu himself--as the Mishna in Pirkei Avos (5:22) teaches:
“Whoever has the following three traits is among the disciples of Avraham
Avinu--Ayin Tovah, Ruach Nemucha V’Nefesh Shifalah--a good towards
others, a humble spirit and one who does not pursue desires.” It behooves us
greatly to follow the teachings of our first and foremost Rebbi!
-------------------------------------------
THE DAN L’CHAF ZECHUS IMPERATIVE:
Rashi in this week’s Parasha (Bamidbar 24:1) gives us a very important
lesson: Bilam wanted so badly to curse K’lal Yisrael, but was unable to. He
realized, however, that there was one way in which he could ‘sneak-in’ a
curse. That was “Azkir Avonoseihem V’Haklalah Ahl Hazkaras Avonoseihem
Tachul--I will mention their sins, and the curse will be able to affect
them through the portal of their mentioned sins.” There is a great lesson
here. When we judge another unfavorably, viewing that which he has done in a
negative light, we are allowing r’l for Klalah to make its way in. As
a zechus for all of K’lal Yisrael we should focus strongly and well on being
Dan L’Chaf Zechus in all situations--from the average Jew through the
Talmid Chochom and Tzaddik.
-------------------------------------------
REACTION!
At the Hakhel Yarchei Kallah, Rabbi Yisroel Reisman, Shlita, pointed out
that a striking fault of Bilam was his shocking inability to be moved by the
events around him. Bilam had so many indications that Hashem was displeased
with his intentions, yet in one way or another Bilam continued to resist and
ignore the lessons. His failure to be moved, to be inspired by the messages
around him to modify his intentions and goals--ultimately resulted in his
death at the hands of Pinchos. Rabbi Reisman called this a Lev Ha’even--a
stone heart, which becomes a person’s own self-imposed punishment upon
himself. There are times every day, Rabbi Reisman explains, which a person
should utilize to assist himself and be inspired to modify his thinking,
change his behavior--and do what is right under the circumstances.
Indeed, Rabbi Yissocher Frand, Shlita, in his Shiur on Keeping the Faith
in Troubled Times, brings the ma’aseh of Rebbi Chananyah Ben Tradyon who
asked Rebbi Yosi Ben Kisma whether he would be a Ben Olam Haba.
Rebbi Yosi Ben Kisma asked Rebbi Chananyah to describe something he had done
so that Rebbi Yosi could make the determination. Rebbi Chananyah told him
that he had once mistakenly mixed Purim Tzedakah money together with his
other money and as a result he gave the whole amount to Tzedakah. Rebbi Yosi
thereupon responded that he would be a Ben Olam Haba. Let us take a step
back for a moment, Rabbi Frand suggests. What was the greatness in Rabbi
Chananyah’s deed that earned him great, everlasting reward? Rabbi Frand
suggests that it was not simply giving a nice amount of Tzedaka one time,
and the avoidance of any doubt as to how much he should give. Rather, it was
Rebbi Chananyah determining that the monies got mixed together for a reason,
and that Min HaShomayim he was being told that he has to give it all
away to Tzedakah. It was this sensitivity, this understanding that
demonstrated the personality of Rebbi Chananyah that made him a Ben Olam
Haba. Rabbi Frand notes therefore that we too must look at daily events and
understand their messages--we must be sensitive, open and ready to respond
to the tap on the shoulder.
As a primary recent example of this, Rabbi Frand cites the Chofetz Chaim
who, when hearing thunder would exclaim: “Vus Vill De Tatteh--why did this
happen?” The Chofetz Chaim realized that thunder is not simply a ‘natural’
phenomenon, but that if he heard it--there was a reason and purpose for
this.
Likewise, Rabbi Frand learned from HaRav Elyah Svei, Z’tl, that this
reaction need not be limited to the great Tzaddikim of the world--but to the
average man as well. HaRav Svei recalled that when he was a young boy in the
Lithuanian town of Poltava he walked into the Shul and heard Tehillim being
recited with tremendous fervor and cries. Stunned, he asked one of the
participants what had happened. A person told him that they heard that there
was an earthquake somewhere on the other side of the world and that people
were killed. They knew this meant that the Ribono Shel Olam was upset and
that they needed to do Teshuvah and sincerely plead with Hashem for
Rachmanus.
On the other side of the spectrum, Rabbi Frand added, was the famous
encounter between HaRav Chatzkel Levenstein, Z’tl, and the chiloni cab
driver. The cab driver, seeing that HaRav Chatzkel was obviously a chashuve
Rav asked him if he could tell him a story. HaRav Chatzkel [realizing that
everything was B’Hashgacha] responded that he surely could. The driver said
that after he finished the Israeli army he backpacked with two of his
friends across Africa. At one point he heard shrieks in the middle of the
night at a close distance which woke him up. As it turned out--one of his
friends was being squeezed to death by a python. No amount of beating would
help--so one of the three recalled the Pasuk of Shema Yisrael, which they
all exclaimed together. The python promptly released his hold and scurried
off into the night. “My friend then took upon himself to become religious
upon his return to Eretz Yisrael, which he did--and he now lives a fully
religious life.” HaRav Chatzkel turned to the driver and said: “…and what
about you?” The driver said: “Kevodo Aino Maivin--Rabbi--you
understand the story. The snake was wrapped around him--not around me!”
We have to make sure that we do not make the grievous mistake of this
foolish cab driver, as world shaking events unfold around us on a daily
basis. For those who do not know, residents all the way in Ramat Beit
Shemesh were forced into bomb shelters yesterday. The situation cries out
for our action--not only the action of those living in Sderot, Ashdod, Be’er
Sheva, motorists in Yehudah and Shomron or Yerushalayim. In Kelm, the
students were urged not to have Kelbene Hispa’alus--a calf’s
reaction. What is that? It is that of a young cow eating grass in the
field who hears a tremendous roar above, lifts up its head for a moment to
see a jet streaking by and then quickly lowers its head to continue eating
the grass.
React we must in our thoughts, in our Tefillos, in our Tehillim and in our
change!
===============================
9 Tammuz
SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM!
We continue our Summer Improvement Program, with simple suggestions, on a
weekly basis, in each of the areas of Bein Adam LaMakom, Bein Adam
L’Chaveiro, and Bein Adam L’Atzmo. Of course, these are only
suggestions--but every person has the opportunity to join with others who
will be attempting the same successes. In the alternative, one can chart his
own improvement course on a weekly basis as well.
WEEK 2--PARASHAS BALAK
Bli neder, at least one time a day during this week, consciously do
the following:
Bein Adam LaMakom:
HaRav Shimon Schwab, Z’tl, writes that when one recites a bracha, he can
consciously perform four Mitzvos: Ahavas Hashem, Yiras Hashem,
U’Le’avdo Bechol Levavchem and U’Ledavka Vo. Before reciting a
Birkas HaNehenin have in mind these four Mitzvos!
Bein Adam L’Chaveiro:
Look at another person whom you are familiar with, and think about how much
behind him there is that you really do not know--his Mitzvos, his life’s
experiences, and the reasons he may react to situations and circumstances in
ways that are different from you. Then, judge him favorably in something
particular that occurred (or keep it in mind for the future).
Bein Adam L’Atzmo:
Before reciting Shema at night, make sure your last activity of the day is
one of Ruchniyus--either the study of Torah (even for only a short
while), an act of Chesed, or the performance of a Mitzvah.
----------------------------------------------------------
FROM A READER: “Regarding last
week’s Parasha, Chukas, Rabbi Menachem
Zupnik, Shlita, Rav of
Bais Torah U’Tefilah of Passaic, asked why B’nei Yisrael waited forty years
to praise the well that followed them during every one of their travels in
the Midbar. Although Rashi explains the relation between the miracle that
Hashem performed regarding the Emori and how the well was the means by which
Hashem made the miracle known to B’nei Yisrael (Rashi on Bamidbar
21:16), nonetheless, the Shir (Bamidbar 21:17-20)
praises the water-giving aspects of the well and contains no mention of the
death of the Emori. Rabbi Zupnik stated that a lesson to be learned from
the Shir is that, although Hashem is constantly performing miracles for our
good, sadly, it is only momentous occasions (such as His bringing two
mountains together to crush our enemies) that ultimately spur a recognition
of all the good He has bestowed upon us in the past, and for which we should
have constantly sung His praises.”
-----------------------------------------
THE
NINTH DAY OF TAMMUZ:
Today is the ninth day of Tammuz. According to the Pesukim in Navi (Melachim
II 25:3, Yirmiyah 39:2) today is the day that Nevuchadnetzar’s army, which
had been besieging Yerushalayim, actually breached its walls. King
Tzidkiyahu and his Anshei Chayil fled from Yerushalayim that night, and were
captured escaping through a cave in the Plains of Yericho. Accordingly,
today was a day of fasting during the 70 years of Churban Bayis Rishon.
Because the walls of the Second Beis HaMikdash were breached on the 17th of
Tammuz, we have fasted on that day since the Churban Bayis Sheni. The
Talmud Yerushalmi (Ta’anis 4:5) records that it was actually on the 17th of
Tammuz that the walls were breached in the first Beis HaMikdash, as well,
but the people were so confused and perplexed--there was such upheaval--that
the populace mistook the day for the 9th of Tammuz, and accordingly the
Pesukim reflected it that way for posterity, as well. Undoubtedly, if the
people believed it was the 9th, and if the Pesukim in fact specifically
refer to the 9th, the force and influence of the 17th must rest in and with
the 9th, as well.
We
posit that a day which has destruction inherent within it also has the
concomitant power of building and healing contained within it. The greatest
example is the “Moed” of Tisha B’Av itself--which in the time of the
Meraglim could have been--and ultimately and soon will be--a time of great
celebration. Even though we will not be fasting today, we can certainly
find it within ourselves to pray for the building of the Beis HaMikdash, and
act in a manner which demonstrates that we truly desire its rebuilding. In
this regard, we provide the following thought:
Chazal teach that “Pischu Li Pehsach…”--open for Me an opening the
size of the point of a needle, and I will open for you an opening which is
the size of the Ulam’s opening in the Beis HaMikdash (the Ulam’s opening was
40 Amos, or at least 60 feet, tall and 20 Amos, or at least 30 feet, wide).
The Kotzker Rebbe comments as follows: Hashem asks of a man to open his
heart to the extent of a needle’s point. However, small as this may be, it
must still be a needle’s point--needle-sharp--piercing through the material
in its entirety. Whatever Teshuva we do must pierce through the very
insides of our being--it must penetrate through and through. Hashem, in
turn, will help us, so that our Teshuva will become more profound--to the
point of an Ulam! We add simply that the opening of the Ulam is not only
the largest opening that we can think of--but it is also the largest opening
of the Beis HaMikdash. Through sincere Teshuva--we will see the opening of
the Ulam in the Beis HaMikdash itself! (The Kotzker Rebbe’s teaching is
brought down in the Sefer VSheeNonTom, by Rabbi Elias Schwartz, Z’tl).
-------------------------------------
SUMMER SHAILOS:
Now that the summer is very much upon us in the Northern
Hemisphere, we provide the following Shailos and Teshuvos are questions that
we had asked Rabbi Yisroel Belsky, Z’tl, in the past, and his responses are
either taken from his handwritten responses to us or from recordings of
Hakhel Shiurim at which the questions were asked. If one needs further
clarification, he should consult with his Rav or Posek, who in any event
should be the final decisor for any person’s particular Shailah.
SUMMER SHAILOS PART 2
Calling Someone Else’s Spouse by Their First Name
QUESTION:
We have all been in
the same bungalow colony for the last ten years. Is there anything wrong
with referring to somebody else’s spouse on a first name basis?
ANSWER:
The way the question is worded, there is an implication that
something is not correct about calling somebody’s spouse by his or her first
name if you have only known them for eight or nine years--but that ten years
is different, and at that point, a first-name basis would be permissible.
However, the opposite is true. The longer one knows a person of the
opposite gender, the less likely you should call him or her by his or her
first name. There is more danger in such situations when you become very
familiar with another person’s spouse. Tznius is something that has
to be learned. The best way is to promote an elevated level of tznius
in the relaxed, summer setting, whether in the bungalow colony or
elsewhere. During the weekdays, when women are alone in the country, they
should still not go out to the swimming pool from their bungalow without the
proper outerwear attire. Tznius should be an important issue at all
times. A person should use chachma and seichel and not put
themselves into potentially harmful
situations.
We live in a world where everyone else considers normal those activities
that we recognize as to’aivah (abominations). Therefore, you have to
be careful that you behave and talk in a manner that reflects tznius
and self-control. These tiny breaches if not controlled can be the openings
for dangerous situations.
Use of One Sink for Both Milk and Meat
QUESTION:
My kitchen in the
bungalow has only one sink. In the past I used a separate rack in the sink
for milk and a second rack for meat. Is there anything else I need to do
since I wash my dishes with hot water?
ANSWER:
Yes, there is absolutely something that you can and must do. Throw
out the racks and get large dish pans (shisselach). Rabbosai,
racks are not a good system. Whenever someone tries to use racks, there is
cutlery (i.e. forks and knives) that slip through the holes in the racks.
The bottom of the sink has a fine layer covering of fleischig schmaltz
combined with cheese and cream, butter and who knows what else. It is
almost impossible to control. There will be backups and the water will rise
and maybe it will be a k’li sheni. The backup will get all over the
dishes and it will be an impossible situation for you to wash off all the
dishes. You shouldn’t use racks. If you want to use a rack, put it under a
dish pan. The stores have plenty of these plastic dish pans in every color
or shape to fit your particular need.
Yichud
Issues
QUESTION:
My husband goes
shopping on Thursday night and oftentimes some neighbors want to go along.
Sometimes it is just one woman. Is there a problem of yichud?
ANSWER:
The answer is yes! It can become a yichud issue when you
travel on a dark country road late at night that is not well-traveled.
Again, even if it is something that is done once, it is a problem.
QUESTION:
Sometimes I have to
go to the City during the week and stay late at night. I would like a
female counselor to stay overnight in the bungalow to watch over the
children. What is the best thing to do to ensure that there will not be a
problem with yichud?
ANSWER:
If the female counselor is going to stay in the bungalow with a
nine year-old boy, there is really no way to get away from the problem of
yichud. If the child is seven or eight years old, young enough to not
have an active yetzer hara, it might be permissible to have the
counselor stay overnight to watch the children.
Am I Required to Help a Stranded Motorist?
QUESTION:
If I see someone
pulled over to the side of the road with car trouble, am I required to stop
and help? Does it matter if I have my family with me and my stopping will
inconvenience and make it harder for them? What if my wife is expecting me
home?
ANSWER:
This is a very serious question and you have to utilize a lot of
judgment. To help someone and yet in the process cause a lot of tza’ar
(hardship) and hurt others is not a simple thing to do. One must think
very carefully and make a judgment. I was once driving up to the country
and it was a very difficult ride. It was very hot outside and there was a
major traffic jam just north of the City. There was a Yid who was
stuck changing a tire on a very crowded spot on a little traffic island,
surrounded by traffic on both sides. There was no place to park. I decided
it would be better to drive on to the toll booths which was another five
minutes away and inform them that there was a motorist stuck and that they
should send an official vehicle to help him out. As I was driving, a goy
pulled up to me and stated loudly, “You didn’t stop to help your
brother!”
Removing Yarmulkes and Tzitzis
QUESTION: May my son take off his
yarmulke when playing ball?
ANSWER:
While one is playing ball or engaged in any sport, G-d forbid that he should
remove his yarmulke, for this leads to lightheadedness and stems from
a lightheaded attitude. One who fears that his yarmulke might fly
off should attach it with bobby pins or the like.
QUESTION: May I take off my Tzitzis
when going to the pool?
ANSWER:
A ben Torah should walk to and from the pool wearing
tzitzis (and when playing ball). Tzitzis should not be the
clothing which we show we are more lax in during the summer months. If you
are going in the swimming pool and take off your tzitzis for more
than an hour’s time, you must make a new brocha when putting them
back on. When taking off the tzitzis for only a half-hour, no new
brocha is needed. If the tzitzis are off from anywhere between a
half-hour and an hour, you should not make a new brocha based on
sofek brochos l’hakel.
Food-Related Items Under Bed
QUESTION:
My wife and children
say that because of lack of space in their bungalow/bunk in camp, they would
like to store snack foods, drinks and plastic eating utensils underneath the
beds. Is this permissible?
ANSWER:
One should not use the space to store food or drinks, but utensils
may be kept there. If you mistakenly left food or drink there, you may use
them.
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