Hakhel Email Community Awareness Bulletin
MARCH 2016 DAILY EMAIL ARCHIVE
21 Adar II
THE NOAM ELIMELECH:
Today,
Chaf
Aleph Adar, is the Yahrzeit of HaRav Elimelech (B’R’
Elazar Lipman)--the famed Noam Elimelech M’Lizhinsk. As many were unable to
daven at his Kever today--we still have the opportunity to learn from his
great teachings. The Tzetel Koton would be a wonderful place to start!
From a
Reader: “True Story:
One of our friends from Eretz Yisrael went to Lizhinsk to the Kever of the
Noam Elimelech together with a group. They have a son in his late 30’s who
was never married. Obviously, he was on the top of the group’s list of names
to daven for. A short time after they came home their son got engaged! The
two families asked Yad Eliezer to make the wedding. Yad Eliezer has a
lottery for available dates on their wedding halls. The date that they
received by ‘lottery’ was the Yahrzeit of the Noam Elimelech!”
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FINAL CALL!
If one would start today to learn three Mishnayos
of Mesechta Pesachim per day, he would make a
Siyum on the entire Mishnayos
Pesachim by the last day of Pesach. As we all know, one must ready
himself not only physically for Pesach, but also spiritually as well!
Stop--don’t miss the opportunity! You will look back in a month and be
rightfully proud of your accomplishment!
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AM I
BEING LAZY?
Sometimes, one feels the need to make a decision as to whether he should
exert the effort to do something or go somewhere. In reflecting on the mini-dilemna,
the thought may enter his mind, “...Am I just being lazy?” We suggest that
in most cases---if that thought enters your mind, then yes--you are just
being lazy!
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MIZMOR
L’SODAH:
The 100th Chapter of Tehillim is recited every morning in Shacharis--so
beautifully and concisely encapsulating our appreciation of Hashem’s bounty
to us that we encourage the whole world to call out in praise. Many stand
when reciting the Kepitel, and the Shulchan Aruch itself (Orach Chaim 51:9)
writes that one should recite it “B’neginah”, for this expression of song
will never become batel. A reader advised that he knows many people
who recite a kepitel of Tehillim (such as 121 or 130) before leaving their
parking spot as aprayer for a safe and uneventful ride. He of course does
the same--but also recites Mizmor L’Sodah--upon his safe arrival!
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AGRA D’PIRKA OPENING IN MONSEY!
B’EH ON TUESDAY MORNING, April 5, 2016, Agra D’Pirka will be opening
its newest branch in Monsey. Agra D’Pirka is home to hundreds of Lomdei
Torah every Monday-Thursday of every week. This branch will be opening in
the Fountainview, 2000 Fountainview Drive, on College Road, right off of
Route 59. There will be shiurim in Gemara, Halacha and Hashkafa by leading
Talmidei Chachamim. A daily shiur will be given by Rabbi Yehoshua Grunfeld
in Gemara, Maseches Brachos. Rabbi Pinchos Jung will be giving a weekly
shiur on the Nesivos Shalom. Rabbi Matis Stern will be giving a weekly
shiur on Inyanei Tefila. Rabbi Yitzchok Lichtenstein will be giving a
weekly shiur on Tanach. Rabbi David Margareten will be giving a weekly
shiur on the parasha. The schedule of daily shiurim will start 9:30 a.m.
and will continue until 11:30 a.m., Monday through Thursday, of every week.
For more information please call Chaim Fuhrer at 718 -490-9392 or call (212)
661-9400 and ask for Ezra Klein.
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KARECHA BADERECH:
As the Torah teaches us, Amaleik’s attack was Karecha BaDerech--they
cooled us off in the road. A Mechaneich pointed out to his students that two
terms often used in today’s times are chill and random--both of which
represent the terminology of Amaleik--Karecha (chill) and Baderech
(random). Let us avoid Amaleik--its terminology--and everything that it
represents!
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SHADES
OF PURIM ON THE HORIZON:
On this day, the 21st of Adar, Daryavesh, the son of Esther HaMalka and
Achashveirosh, allowed the Jews to continue the building of the Second Bais
HaMikdash--which had been halted in Achashveirosh’s time! May it be a sign
of things to come for the Third Bais Hamikdash and our final Geulah!
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OF
EXTREME IMPORTANCE NOW.
The Rambam in Hilchos Rotzeiach (12:15) writes that Doniyel was punished
with the Nisayon of being placed into the Gov Arayos, the Lion’s Den,
because of the great advice that he gave to Nevuchadnetzar the Rasha. Based
upon Doniyel’s advice and the punishment he received, the Rambam rules that
it is forbidden to give good advice to one who is undeserving (see there).
What was the advice that Doniyel gave to Nevuchadnetzar that was so great
that made Doniyel so culpable? The Rambam writes that he advised
Nevuchadnetzar that he could save himself from the dire events of the
dream Nevuchadnetzar had seen by giving Tzedaka to deserving people.
Can we
at all imagine what effect this Tzedaka will have in Shomayim? If Doniyel’s
advice to a Rasha to give Tzedaka in order to save himself from punishment
was so potent that Doniyel was punished with the Nisayon of the Lion’s
Den--imagine how much the ACTUAL GIVING OF TZEDAKA to the Truly Needy for
Pesach will shake the Heavens! May it really and truly stand as a Zechus For
Your Families and all of K’lal Yisroel in these turmoil-filled times, and
may it bring the final Geulah--when we will all be filled with Joy-- oh so
much closer.
This
Pesach, be generous--Geulah-style generous!
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HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially
spiritual period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach! The following
Halachos are culled from the Sefer Halachos of Pesach (Feldheim), by
Rabbi Shimon D. Eider, Z’tl. This Sefer
is an outstanding resource in English for practical Halachos of Pesach. Of
course, one should in all events consult with his own Rav or Posek
pertaining to his particular facts or circumstances:
A.
We find throughout Hilchos Pesach the term Chumra D’Chometz.
Since
chometz is punishable with Kares, there are many Chumros
accepted in dealing with chometz on Pesach which are not
used
in dealing with other prohibited foods (e.g. Chometz
on
Pesach is prohibited b’mashehu while other issurim are
Batel B’Shishim). Because of Chumra D’Peasch, many minhagim
were accepted, most of these have a basis in
Halacha:
B. Some communities did not eat dried fruit during
Pesach.
The basis for this minhag is that flour was spread on the fruit during
the
drying process. In addition, the ovens used for drying were also used
for
chometz.
Where there is proper supervision, it is permissible.
C. Some communities did not eat garlic during Pesach. Although the
basis
for this minhag is questionable (some say that the farmers would soak the
garlic in beer),
where there is proper supervision, most Poskim hold that
even ground garlic is permissible.
D.
Some people use only unwashed eggs during Pesach. Their reason
is
that since the eggs were washed with the chicken feed (which may contain
chometz) and with questionable detergents, chometz may have been absorbed
by the eggs during the washing. Although most Poskim hold that it is
permissible,
the eggs should be rinsed before cooking.
E.
Because the Jewish people are a nation of Kedoshim and Chassadim and the
Ari, Z’tl, said that one who is saved from violating even the most minute
issur of
chometz on Pesach is assured that the entire year he will not sin,
individuals
have accepted upon themselves additional Chumros for Pesach.
F. Although some of these minhagim have
no firm basis in halacha, one who conducts himself in this way and his
intentions are purely L’Sheim Shomayim, the
Sha’arei Teshuvah (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 460) applies the Pasuk: V’Ameich
Kulam Tzaddikim !(Yeshaya 16:21).
==============================
20 Adar II
ONE
FINAL INSIGHT ON KIYMU V’KIBLU.
Based upon the Sefer Ma’alos HaTorah, the Chofetz Chaim brings the
following powerful Mashal: If the king promoted a commoner to the royal
service, to a position otherwise performed by senior officials, the commoner
would most certainly feel a great joy--even if he would not be paid for his
work. After all, he need only consider where he was before and where he is
today. All the more so, must one rejoice when he realizes that he has been
promoted above the level of the common man to study and practice the words
of the Torah HaKedosha--words which the Malachei HaShareis themselves regale
in--and words which the Tzaddikim in Gan Eden spend all of their time with!
If this is not enough, continues the Chofetz Chaim, one should remember the
words of Chazal who teach: “When one studies Torah the angels created by
his words surround him for as far as he can see--and he is in their midst!”
Hakhel
Note: What new commitment (bli neder) can one make to this incredible,
unparalleled and eternity-creating royal privilege?! It is most definitely
very well worth it to spend the time and make the effort!
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HILCHOS PESACH:
We continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially
spiritual period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach!
Of course, one should in all events consult with his own Rav or Posek
pertaining to his particular facts or circumstances:
A. One fulfills the Mitzvas Asei of Tashbisu by appropriately
removing Chometz from his possession. If one fulfills Tashbisu by
burning his Chometz, he should burn the Chometz until it becomes thoroughly
burned, like charcoal. The Rema writes that it is our Minhag to burn the
Chometz, rather than dispose of it by throwing it into the water or flushing
it away in the lavatory, and the Mishna Berurah explains that this is
because there are some Poskim who rule in accordance with Rebbi Yehuda that
the only way to dispose of Chometz is through burning (Shulchan Aruch Orach
Chaim 445:1; Mishna Berurah seif katan 1, 3 and 14).
B. HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl, rules that one should not pour
kerosene or a similar flammable agent on the Chometz while burning it,
because while doing so he renders the Chometz inedible to a dog, in which
case there is no longer an obligation of biur. Accordingly, if one
did so, he would not fulfill the Mitzvas Asei of Tashbisu. If one
feels that he must quicken the process of burning the Chometz, then he
should leave at least a kezayis to burn without the aid of kerosene. HaRav
Nissim Karelitz feels that one can be lenient in this regard because the
kerosene burns before the Chometz itself, and in any event HaRav Auerbach
rules that if one does so, one need not rebuke him or perhaps one can view
the entire act as one act of burning (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim, Dirshu
Note 8).
C. If one does dispose of it by throwing it into the water or into the wind
in a public place, he should crumble it into small pieces, so that anyone
who finds it cannot obtain any benefit from the Chometz (ibid., Mishna
Berurah seif katan 2).
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TRUE TEFILLAH!:
The following is excerpted from Living On: Messages,
Memories and Miracles from the Har Nof Massacre, compiled by Rabbi
Daniel Yaakov Travis, Shlita:
“The ability to tear open the Heavens in one’s prayer is a gift, and in most
situations a person doesn’t reach this elevated level of Tefillah. However,
each of us must know that we have this power in our possession, and we must
do everything we can to tap into it. I turn to K’lal Yisrael to feel the
pain of the Rothman family and all the others injured in the Har Nof
Massacre, and in their zechus let us try to achieve this level of Tefillah.
“The Sefer Sha’arei Orah explains why Tefillas Chana produced
miraculous results. Sifrei Kabbalah reveal that Keser is the highest of the
Sefiros, and it embodies Ratzon, the purest form of will. Chana was able to
focus her will and touch upon Keser, and as a result her Tefillos tore upon
the Heavens and were answered immediately.
“True Tefillah is when one recognizes that aside from the Borei Olam there
is absolutely no possibility for salvation. When a person arrives at this
crystal-clear recognition, he has reached a level of pure emunah, and he can
cry out to the Borei Olam with complete faith that there is absolutely no
other power in the world.
“Rav Shimshon Dovid Pincus, Z’tl, once told me that to rip open the Heavens
a person does not have to scream at the top of his lungs. He can be standing
silently by his shtender, and the piercing cries of his heart permeate
Above. The main thing is that he should feel an urgent need for salvation
and know that the Borei Olam is the only address to turn to….
“The halacha dictates that when we leave our homes we should touch the
Mezuzah. As we are leaving we should say, “Hashem Yishmor Tzeisi U’Vo’i
Mei’atah V’Ahd Olam--may Hashem guard my leaving and my coming now and
forever.” Our greatest means of protection is prayer. That is what Hashem
wants from us!”
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SECURITY UPDATE:
1. As
r’l new terror lurks over and threaten our people and the world, we
all know and realize that it is not with might, armor or sophisticated
technology that we will succeed. Adar is a month in which we celebrate that
our Lech K’nos--our getting together in Tefillah and Teshuva--was
able to save us--our entire people--from annihilation. Whatever our
primary aveira was at the time, whether it was bowing down to avodah
zara, eating from Achashveirosh’s feast, or our weakening in Torah study and
Mitzvah performance--it was CURED through our Tefillah and Teshuva.
Now is NOT the time to be silent. HaRav Yechezkel Levenstein, Z’tl (Ohr
Yecheskel 3: 195), brings the Midrash as follows: “When Achashveirosh’s
decree against the Jews was ordered, the Torah put on bigdei almanus
and cried out before Hashem, and the Malachei HaShareis screamed and
exclaimed--”If there will no longer be a K’lal Yisrael, what purpose do we
have in the world?! The sun and the moon were aghast and no longer shined
bright. Eliyahu HaNavi ran to the Avos and to Moshe Rabbeinu and shouted
out “How can you remain silent?!” The Avos responded--’if they have acted
this way, there is nothing that we can do’! Eliyahu HaNavi turned to Moshe
Rabbeinu and said--”Moshe Rabbeinu, you saved them so many times--help them
here! Moshe Rabbeinu responded---if there is an Adam Kasher in the
generation, let him daven and so will I--we will ask for Rachamim from
Hashem together. Eliyahu immediately went, and related Moshe’s words to
Mordechai.” HaRav Chatzkel explains the meaning of the Midrash to us--look
at what the Torah was unable to accomplish, what the Malachim were unable to
accomplish, what the sun and the moon were unable to accomplish, what the
Avos were unable to accomplish--and what an Adam Kasher davening to
Hashem can accomplish--nullifying and even reversing the
decree in its entirety against us! The power of Tefillah--our Tefillah--can
change the world order! It is clear that we must together beseech Hashem for
his immediate mercy to revoke any decree against us--and may our current
state of Novocha, of confusion--in very much the same way as
then--turn overnight into a time of Tzahala VeSameicha!
2.
The
term Mi’mah Nafshach refers to a situation in which whichever way you
look at it--the conclusion is clear. We live in times which appear so close
to the times of Moshiach. Accordingly, we must look at the need for true
accomplishment in our lives Mi’mah Nafshach--either we drive
ourselves to true accomplishment--so that we can look back in our old age
and clearly see the true achievements and successes--or greet the Moshiach
with our accomplishments! It is a win-win situation. All we have to do--is
accomplish! Hakhel Note: The first place to begin is…Teshuvah Bechol
Yom!
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THE PRECIOUS WORDS OF HAREINI MOCHEL!:
The following Halacha is excerpted from the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (71:3):
“Before going to bed, one should put in his heart to forgive all those who
have sinned against him, so that they are not punished because of him.
Chazal (Shabbos 149B) teach that ‘A person on whose account another is
punished [i.e., by not forgiving him] is not allowed into the mechitzah
of Hakadosh Baruch Hu. Instead, one should recite three times: “Shorei
LeChol Mann Di Tza’aran--I forgive all those who caused me
distress.” Hakhel Note: Incredibly, the Kitzur then goes on to teach
that after this one should still recite the tefillah of Ribbono Shel Olam
HaReini Mochel…. In other words, it would appear that the Kitzur is
requiring a specific stand-alone statement (to be repeated three times)
before the tefillah of Ribbono Shel Olam to indicate the
thoughtfulness and sincerity of the statement!
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GIFT TAKING, GIFT GIVING:
Some Poskim write that the Mishloach Manos that we give on Purim--two gifts
to one person, is based upon Achashveirosh giving to Esther two gifts--his
royal ring, and the House of Haman. Thus, we remember these very, very
significant gifts with gifts of such items as hamantashen, wine, challah,
snacks from all over the world, and various assorted trifles and dainties.
Perhaps we can take this “gifted” lesson through the year, and every time
that we receive a gift, whether large or small and whether tangible or in
the form of a compliment or other intangible item, and be sure to pass on
that gift in some form to someone else. The gifts one receives and that one
gives may not necessarily be comparable at all, but in more cases than you
may think, they may be just as memorable!
==============================
19 Adar II
FOLLOW-UP:
Yesterday, we had referenced a moving Pasuk in Tehillim (40:6). Relating to
this Pasuk, a reader once noted: “I believe that one should think of one
thing that he is grateful to Hashem for when he repeats the Pasuk!”
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QUESTION OF THE DAY:
What
three words would you use to define Amaleik? Hint: See Devarim 25:18. What
does that tell you about what the definition of whom the Bnei Yisrael are to
be? How can each and every one of us accomplish this goal?
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BESHEIM MORDECHAI:
Esther related the plot of Bigsan and Seresh to kill the king “BeSheim
Mordechai--in Mordechai’s name.” Chazal derive from this that one who
repeats a matter in the name of the one who said it, brings redemption to
the world (Avos 6:6)--for the Jewish people were saved because of
Achashveirosh’s understanding of Mordechai’s deed.” What was so special
about Esther’s act, and why does it produce such great reward?! The
commentaries explain that repeating something in the name of someone else
when you could have just as easily ascribed it to yourself, and even when
you in fact on your own had the same thought, remark or teaching
indicates a high degree of ‘Ayin Tova’--good naturedness and a good eye
towards others which deserves special recognition and special Bracha.
Indeed, the Middah K’Neged Middah is obvious--if one acts with an Ayin Tova
towards others even if there is good and reasonable basis not to be so
effusive in this Ayin Tova, Hashem, in turn, will act with an Ayin Tova even
if there is a basis for him not to do so. It is, therefore, the Midda of
Ayin Tova which permeates everyone’s Purim--giving Mishloach Manos to
others, distributing Matanos LeEvyonim to each and every person that asks,
and joining together for a Purim Seudah. It is this pristine Middah of Ayin
Tova--looking away at self and graciously helping another--which we can take
with us on a daily basis after Purim. Remember--Chazal teach that it
brings Geulah to the world--so let’s get seriously going. At the end of each
day, you may want to ask yourself did I act with an Ayin Tova
today--did I help bring the Geulah for us all?!
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MACHAR:
A reader once posed the question as to why the word ‘Machar’ or
‘tomorrow’ is used particularly with respect to our battle against Amalek.
For instance, when Yehoshua went to fight Amalek, Moshe Rabbeinu told him:
”Machar Anochi Nitzav Ahl Rosh Hagivah--Tomorrow, I
will stand on top of the hill [and the battle will begin]...” (Shemos 17:9).
Similarly, Esther HaMalka told Achashveirosh: ”Machar
E’eseh KiDvar HaMelech”--Tomorrow, come back [with Haman] and I will do
as the King requested... (Esther 5:8). The question: Why does ‘Machar
appear to be needed against Amalek?!
We
have admittedly waited until ‘Machar’--after Purim--to present some
of the cogent responses that we received:
A.
“Rav Hutner, Z’tl, in Pachad Yitzchok on Purim, ‘Inyan 5’, page 40,
has a fascinating discussion on this. He explains that Esav’s shoresh is
rooted in ‘today’ (Michra Kayom Es Bechorosicha Le) and Yaakov’s
shoresh is rooted in ‘tomorrow’, i.e Acharis HaYomim (‘Ad Asher Avo
El Adoni Seira’).”
B. “I
cannot find the reference to it, but I remember learning that if they had
gone out to fight right at that time, it would have been more a physical (gashmiyus)
war, lacking the needed spiritual (ruchniyus) component to succeed over
Amalek, whose main job was to break our connection to Hashem. But by waiting
until the next day, Moshe was able to get the people to pray, do Teshuva,
return to Hashem, and daven b’kol rom to entreat Hashem and plead for
His Heavenly guidance and assistance to help us so we could overcome Amalek.”
C.
“One of the big powers of Amalek is to inflict safek or doubt into our
emunah--’karcha’ is a Lashon of mikreh all is
coincidence-which is the opposite of Hashgacha. How do you counteract this?
The Gematria of Machar is 248 the number of Mitzvos Aseh in the Torah. As
the Sefer HaChinuch teaches--adam nifal kefi peulosav- a
person becomes the way he acts. Ergo, the best way to counteract the
philosophy of Amalek is not by engaging in theological discussions about
Hashem--but rather to do the 248 mitzvos and the person will become a maamin.”
D.
“Amalek represents the Yetzer Hara. It is very hard to deal head on with
the Yetzer. Our head and emotions play tricks on us. Therefore, the best
thing to do is to tell Amalek (the Yetzer Hara), ‘Tomorrow I’ll deal with
you. Today, I am busy serving Hashem.’ In this way we will stay focused on
our true Avoda and not get distracted by today’s so-called needs.”
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THE
ESSENCE OF KIYMU VEKIBLU!:
Before learning, simply take a moment to dedicate and devote yourself to the
study or the Shiur itself--forgetting about work, old issues, new problems,
the last phone call or email, what you still have to do today, the mistake
you recently made and how you can correct it, how to do this or say
that--and instead and instead to wholly focus with joy only on Hashem’s
Torah--because this is really what Hashem wants. It is reported that the
Steipeler Gaon, Z’tl, who heard so many of the world’s problems, said that
the only way he could learn effectively with so much weighing down upon him,
was by simply putting everything else out of mind and devoting the precious
time in front of him to pure study. A simple--but very effective--way for
us to take Kiymu VeKiblu with us throughout the year!
In
order for us to better appreciate the tremendous importance of any Kiymu
VeKiblu Kabbalah (bli neder), we provide special insights from the
Chofetz Chaim into the greatness of Torah (found in the Sha’ar
HaTorah, Chapter 1, of the Sefer Shemiras HaLashon):
:
1.
Chazal teach that there are 600,000 explanations of each Pasuk of the
Torah.
2.
The light that emanates from the names of HaKadosh Baruch Hu above emanates
for 420,000,000 parsa’os.
3. The
reason that the Parashios of the Torah are not in chronological order is
because if they would be--anyone who read them would be able to be
mechayeih meisim and perform wonders.
4. A
person should reflect upon the fact that if he was to receive a letter from
the king which was difficult to read, or which required further study--how
much time and effort he would put into understanding the king’s directive.
How much more so when it comes to the eternal teachings of the King of all
Kings-- the Torah--of which we openly aver: “Ki Heim Chayeinu V’Orech
Yameinu--for it is our life and the length of our days!”
5.
The Pasuk (Tehillim 62:13) states: “U’lecha Hashem Chosed Ki Atta
Teshaleim Le’ish KeMa’aseihu--You Hashem are kind--for You repay a
person according to his deeds.” Many ask--what is the kindness that the
Pasuk is referring to--after all, if a person does Mitzvos, isn’t it just
for him to be rewarded for them? The Chofetz Chaim answers with a potent
Mashal: If a person would invent a machine which could build an entire city
in a day from scratch, and would bring this machine to the king, the king
would surely reward him very handsomely. The king, however, would in no
event gift to him the cities that were built through the machine, or even
all of the cities by the inventor’s name. After all, it is the king who is
building and outfitting the cities--and they are all within his province and
domain. Not so with Hashem. Although it is Hashem Who is of course
empowering creation at every moment, He in His chesed deems it as if
the one studying Torah is the one who is empowering the world--for by doing
so he is fulfilling the purpose of creation . This is the incredible
meaning of the word KeMa’aseihu in the Pasuk--Hashem treats the
student of Torah as the one who is keeping the world going--as if he himself
is continuously creating it!
6.
The Zohar (Parashas Shelach) teaches that one who is oseik in Torah
is considered as if he brought all of the Karbanos before Hashem, and
Hashem provides multiples kisa’os for him in Olam Haba.
7.
The Zohar (Parashas Vayeishev) also teaches that for one who is oseik
in Torah, the gates preventing his neshama from going to higher locations
break until it gets to its rightful place, and the Torah continues to
protect him and is melamed zechus on him until Techiyas HaMeisim.
8.
Because the Torah is composed of the names of Hashem, one who is oseik
in Torah is considered as if he is oseik in the Shem Hashem itself.
9.
The Zohar (Parashas Pinchas) writes that there is no joy to Hashem but for
one who is oseik in Torah--and if one stays up at night to study--his
study is listened to by the Tzaddikim in Gan Eden, with Hashem’s presence in
their midst.
10.
The Zohar (Parashas Bereishis) writes that one who actually moves his
lips reciting the words of Torah as he studies is considered like a
Malach on earth--as the Pasuk (Tehillim 103:20) states: “Barchu
Hashem Malachav Giborei Koach..--blessed are you, the Malochim who do
the will of Hashem...”
Hakhel
Note: Kiymu V’Kiblu--let us be sure to make it an essential part of
our daily life!
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HILCHOS PESACH:
We
continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially spiritual
period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach!
The following halachos are culled from the Mishna Berurah, Dirshu Edition (Shulchan
Aruch Orach Chaim 432-433):
A.
L’Halacha, if one undertakes Bedikas Chometz and actually finds no Chometz
at all, the bracha of Ahl Bi’ur Chometz that was recited at the
outset of the bedikah is not a bracha l’vatalah--firstly, because the
Mitzvah is to check and search and if one does not find it does not matter;
and secondly, the bracha actually refers to Bi’ur Chometz--which will
occur the next day in the morning--which may consist of the leftovers of
what he has eaten prior to the bi’ur. Nevertheless, the Chok
Yaakov writes that the Minhag Yisrael of putting out ten pieces should
not be stopped and gives reasons for it. The Arizal also provides a reason
for the Minhag. In the words of the Ba’er Heiteiv it is a Sod
Gadol. For those who have the custom--the Mishna Berurah cautions that
one be careful not to lose any of the pieces (ibid., Mishna Berurah seif
katan 12)! If one performs his bedikah before the night of the 14th
(i.e., because he is going away for Pesach), there is a Machlokes HaPoskim
as to whether he should keep his minhag regarding the ten pieces at the
early bedikah. (ibid., Dirshu Note 17)
B. If
one performs the bedikah by the light of a torch or other large fire,
and not by the light of a single candle, the bedikah is ineffective
and one must perform the bedikah again (ibid., 433, Mishna Berurah
seif katan 10).
C. If
one forgot to make the bracha of Ahl Bi’ur Chometz at the time of
bedikah, there is a Machlokes Haposkim as to whether he can still make
the bracha before burning the Chometz. The Mishna Berurah rules that if one
wants to rely on those who hold that one may recite the bracha at the time
of bi’ur, ain mochin bo--we do not rebuke him for doing so
(ibid., Dirshu Note 5).
==============================
18 Adar II
QUESTION OF THE DAY:
After Haman’s decree was superseded by the decree in favor of the Jews, and
after the successful triumph over their enemies--did each Jew in
Achashveirosh’s provinces Bentsch Gomel?
-------------------------------------------
MORDECHAI AND ESTHER:
At the end of Shemone Esrei, prior to taking three steps back, many recite a
Pasuk whose first letter is the first letter of their name, and whose last
letter is the last letter of their name. Fascinatingly, one whose name is
Mordechai recites the Pasuk (Tehillim 119:97): “Mah Ahavti Sorasecha Kol
HaYom He Sichasi--How I love Your Torah--it is what I talk about all
day.” Although Chazal teach that some members of the Sanhedrin separated
themselves from Mordechai because of his governmental affairs, many may
mistakenly believe that Mordechai was greatly diverted from his attention to
Torah because of his involvement with the king. We suggest that this Pasuk
teaches us that Mordechai’s clear essence was Torah--and not even being
second-to-the- king could change that. Hakhel Note: To follow suit, if
your name is not Esther--it most certainly pays to look up the Pasuk for
Esther and see how beautifully it applies to her role and her teaching as
well!
---------------------------------------------------------------
NOW THAT WE ARE IN THE SECOND HALF OF THE MONTH OF ADAR: Is Chazal’s teaching of
Mishe Nichnas Adar Marbim B’Simcha in the same force and effect as it
was prior to Purim? Rashi (Ta’anis 29A) explains that the reason we increase
our Simcha in Adar is because: “Yemei Nissim HaYu LeYisrael Purim
U’Pesach--these are days of miracles for K’lal Yisrael--Purim and
Pesach.” HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, explains that the Mitzvah of Simcha
continues all-the-way through Pesach because the common thread and theme is
one of Nissim that Hashem performs on our behalf, and the Geulah that
results. A closer focus at this common thread, he continues, shows that our
Yeshuah comes only from Hashem--and that the thought that our actions aid or
assist in any way are both foolish and untrue. In fact, HaRav Friedlander
teaches, although there were still 11 months left before the decree against
the Jews was to take effect, and although Esther could have waited until the
king called for her rather than risk her life--Mordechai and Esther both
wanted to demonstrate (each in their own way)--through the sack cloth,
fasting, Tefillos and life-risking actions that they realized that
everything was dependent on the Yeshuas Hashem. We likewise read in the
Haggadah that when Hashem took us out of Mitzrayim, it was Lo Ahl Yedei
Malach, Lo Ahl Yedei Saraf, VeLo Ahl Yedei Shaliach--but
Hashem in His honor and by Himself took us out. Accordingly, in this period
between Purim and Pesach, our joy should continue to build as we recognize
that we are so especially and uniquely privileged to be in Hashem’s loving
hands-and that He will likewise perform Nissim on our behalf to bring us the
Geulah Sheleimah!
---------------------------------------------------------------
IMMEDIATE INSPIRATION FOR THIS TIME OF YEAR!
We
urge you to take out a Sefer Tehillim and recite the words of Tehillim,
Chapter 40, Pasuk 6. How moving! How especially timely! Keep the Pasuk
handy!
---------------------------------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH:
We
continue to provide Halachos relating to Pesach in this especially spiritual
period--less than thirty (30) days before Pesach!
The following halachos are culled from the Mishna Berurah, Dirshu Edition (Shulchan
Aruch Orach Chaim 433).
Of course, one should in all events consult with his own Rav or Posek
pertaining to his particular facts or circumstances:
A. Even though the general rule is safeik d’rabanan lekulah, when it
comes to Bedikas Chometz, one should not be lenient in the event of
safeik--for the entire takanah is to check and clarify that no
Chometz remains (Dirshu Note 22).
B. If one lives in a condominium building, his obligation to check the
stairway reaches only until his floor and his apartment. Even though one
pays the common area charges for the entire building--that is just a matter
of the agreement of the parties (Dirshu Note 16).
C. In a house where there are children, one is obligated to check the
bathroom and bath for Chometz--as although adults would not bring food into
these areas, it is likely that children do so (ibid., Dirshu Note 18).
However, with respect to places where the crevice is too narrow for one’s
hand to enter (such as between a heavy bookshelf and a cabinet and a wall,
one does not have to move away the heavy bookshelf or wall--and instead can
rely on his bitul). This would be true even if one knows that something
valuable fell behind the cabinet he would move it (Dirshu Note 25).
---------------------------------------------------------------
YAHRZEIT OF THE YESOD V’SHORESH HA’AVODAH:
Today (18 Adar Sheini) is the Yahrzeit of the Yesod V’Shoresh Ha’avodah
(R’ Alexander Siskin B’ R’ Moshe, Z’tl). We present below several of his
always-moving teachings:
1. The ikar for which man is created it to give Nachas Ruach
to Hashem. Accordingly, a dedicated focus in one’s life should be on
increasing Nachas Ruach to Hashem with all of one’s actions at all
times.
2. Dovid HaMelech exclaims (we recite it every day in Pesukei D’Zimra--
Tehillim 146:2): “Hallelu Es Hashm Bechaiyai Azamrah Leilokai B’odi--I
will praise Hashem while I live, I will make music to Hashem while I exist.”
One must realize that all of Tehillim was written with Ruach HaKodesh, and
when one recites these words, he must express them with true feeling.
How can one mouth words such as these--Hallelu Es Hashm Bechaiyai--without
meaning them? In fact, we should know that Hashem actually has greater
nachas when we recite words of thanksgiving and praise to Him than
when Heavenly beings do!
3. When one sees or hears something which is inappropriate it impacts upon
his machshava--his thoughts which emanate from a holy and higher
world. Accordingly, when his thoughts below are impugned--then it incredibly
also leaves a pegam, a negative impact in the higher world as well.
4. When one realizes his mind is clean of any other thoughts and cannot
otherwise focus, he should think with in great joy: “Hareini Ma’amin
B’Emunah Sheleimah She’atah Yachid U’Meyuchad--I believe with complete
faith that Hashem is One and Only.” Likewise, one can think (even in unclean
places) about ways in which he can help his friend--in fact, even if one
feels happy over the happiness of his friend or feels pain (if c’v
his friend is pained), he makes constructive use of his time--and actually
fulfills a Mitzvah of V’Ahavta L’Reiacha Kamocha!
5. Before beginning Shemone Esrei at Shacharis, a man should touch his
Tefillin Shel Rosh and think: “Zeh Ha’os Sheatah Yachid U’meyuchad
V’Sheatah Yotzeis Mimitzrayim--this is the sign that You are One and
Only and have taken us out of Egypt”.
6. Before beginning to learn a Mussar Sefer, one should state why he is
learning--in order to have Yiras Shomayim, to grow spiritually and properly
perform the Mitzvos and give nachas to Hashem. For the actual Nusach of the
Yesod V’Shoresh Ha’avodah see Sha’ar Shishi--Kavanas Limud Sefer
Yerei’im.
7. If one realizes that he has sinned in some way--whether it be by an
action word or thought, he should recite Viduy over it immediately--as the
Zohar mentions in many places that the Vidui alone accomplishes much in the
upper worlds.
8. When one recites a Borei Nefashos, he should have in mind the specific
items of food over which he is reciting it (let us say a fruit and a
drink)--and not just take it as general words of appreciation. Moreover,
when reciting the words Baruch Chei Ha’olamim at the end of Borei Nefashos,
one should feel great joy that Hashem is the Lifegiver to all worlds--and we
benefit from this every second of the day.
9. When beginning the second bracha of bentsching--Nodeh Lecha Hashem
Elokeinu, one should stop for a moment and not immediately rush into the
next words. Rather, one should feel joy over the gifts that Hashem has given
him, and then begin to enumerate some of the great ones listed in bentsching.
Similarly, when beginning the third bracha in which we ask Hashem to have
mercy--we should make sure to highlight each item for mercy separately--(i)
Ahl Yisrael Amecha, (i) V’Ahl Yerushalayim Irecha, (iii)
V’Ahl Tzion Mishkan Kevodecha, (iv) V’Ahl Malchus Beis Dovid
Meshichecha, and (v) V’Ahl HaBayis HaGadol Ve’Hakadosh.
10. In this week’s Haftarah--the Haftarah for Parashas Parah, one should
appreciate the great consolations that are mentioned: “Venasati Lachem
Lev Chadash”, “Ve’es Ruchi Etein Bekirbichem”. Indeed, one should
strengthen himself by studying pesukim of consolation in Tanach such as
Yirmiyah 31:31 et al.; Yechezkel 11: 17 et al., 37:24-37 and 37:21. One
should also see the end of Sefer Amos, Micha Chapter 4, Tzefanyah 3:8 et
al., Zechariah 8 and 14; the end of Sefer Malachi; and Yoel 3. Review all of
these consolations--get chizuk--and do Teshuvah as soon as possible! Let us
not be too late!
---------------------------------------------------------------
YAHRZEIT OF
HARAV CHATZKEL LEVENSTEIN, Z’TL:
Today is the Yahrzeit of Chatzkel (HaRav Yechezkel B’ Reb Yehudah HaLevi)
Levenstein, Z’tl, the great Mashgiach in Mir and Ponovezh. A disciple of
HaRav Chatzkel related, “I once saw Rav Chatzkel in a state of extreme
happiness, and asked him for the reason.” HaRav Chatzkel replied: “Someone
greatly insulted me today, and I didn’t say anything in return. For this I
am joyful” (Marbitzai Torah U’Mussar, Vol. 4, p.212, as published in
Love Your Neighbor).
The following excerpt is from a truly remarkable sefer entitled Reb
Chatzkel, on the life of Rabbi Yechezkel Levenstein, Z’tl, by Rabbi
Yitzchak Kasnett (Artscroll, 2007). This sefer is very highly recommended:
“On the way to Japan, the Mashgiach (Rabbi Levenstein, Z’tl) expressed to
the Mirrer talmidim the following thoughts about the impending exile: ‘The
decree of exile is an unnatural state that was expressly created for K’lal
Yisrael. When we consider the consequences of exile, we find that no nation
other than K’lal Yisrael remains in existence after any appreciable time in
exile. The Midrash relates that Hashem Yisborach asked Avraham Avinu what
punishment he chooses for his children when they will sin and there is no
Beis HaMikdash to atone for their wrongdoing--exile or purgatory. According
to one opinion quoted in the Midrash, Avraham was unable to answer. Thus, in
practical terms, the consequences of exile and purgatory are strongly
equated. Contrary to our understanding of exile, the deleterious effect of
exile upon our spiritual growth and well-being cannot be overstated; we have
no appreciation of the great measure of Divine mercy needed as we pass from
one regime to the next.’” (Page 142)
Hakhel Note: As HaRav Chatzkel studied in Kelm as well, the book brings the
following great teaching that we can all easily utilize in our daily lives:
The following was one of the rules that were in effect in the Kelm Talmud
Torah:
To be careful not to say a Bracha hastily; therefore before making a Bracha,
one must think:
What Bracha do I need to make?
Before Whom am I making this Bracha?”
---------------------------------------------------------------
THE BEST OPPORTUNITIES ARE OFTEN FREE: As
we are now less than four weeks away from Pesach, may we recommend the study
of the Sefer Mesilas Yeshorim--which can be completed in less than
one month by dividing it into short segments (let us say five (5) pages a
day). The benefit of especially studying a Mussar Sefer at this time is
twofold. Firstly, it will keep one in the right frame of mind during a
period which could get stressful or pressured. Secondly, it will help ready
you for the redemption that you yourself will experience on Pesach (and
hopefully even sooner). The spiritual preparation for Pesach should by NO
MEANS play second fiddle to the physical preparations that so many of us
have already (or wish they had!) begun. The next few weeks will pass by
quickly--don’t let them pass you by!
==============================
15 Adar II
PUR-IM:
Why is Purim called its name in the plural if it is, as the Megillah
records--only “Al Shem HaPur”. Why is it simply not called ‘Pur’ or ‘HaPur’?
It may bethat the plural teaches us the great significance of both
days--Purim and Shushan Purim, for in actuality, the “V’nahafoch
Hu”, the dynamic turnabout, continues today on Shushan Purim!
------------------------------------------------
KIYMU
V’KIBLU:
Today is the day to ensure that your Kiymu V’Kiblu thoughts turn into
daily action, bli neder! How will your Torah study be improved?:
Will you try to not only read the words but say them aloud--at least in one
aspect of your daily Torah study? Will you be sure to learn at least one
Halacha a day about Hilchos Pesach until Pesach (see next Headnote) and
continue in some way from there? Will you think about how beloved the
opportunity to study Torah is--each time before beginning your Torah
studies…? We look forward to you sharing your Kiymu V’Kiblu
commitments, bli neder, with us!
----------------------------------------------
REGALE!
As we are still in the mid-month of Adar, we should continue to recall the
Simcha--the joy we are to feel this month in our lives, our Mitzvahs, our
relationships and in ourselves. Keep it at the forefront!
-----------------------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH!
As we are now less than 30 days before Pesach, we should try to learn the
Halachos of Pesach (including the Halachos of the Seder) from a practical
Sefer. To some, it can be the Mishna Berurah or the Aruch HaShulchan; to
others it can be an English Sefer such as The Halachos of Pesach,
by Rabbi Shimon Eider, Z’tl. The importance of studying the Halachos
within the 30 days before Pesach is highlighted by the Mishna Berurah (Shulchan
Aruch, Orach Chaim 429 seif katan 1), who writes that the source for the 30
day study period is actually found in the Torah itself (see ibid.). We
intend to provide two to three short Halachos per day. This should not of
course serve as a replacement of one’s own study, but only as a supplement
for our collective use. The following halachos are culled from the Mishna
Berurah, Dirshu Edition (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 432):
A. Bedikas Chometz is the first step on Erev Pesach in ridding ourselves of
Chometz possessions. Indeed, it is part of a large process of Biur Chometz--the
destruction of Chometz. Accordingly, the bracha one recites at the outset of
Bedikas Chometz is Ahl Biur Chometz. The Pri Megadim rules that if
one recited the bracha of Ahl Bedikas Chometz--he is not Yotzei. We
do not recite a Shehechiyanu at Bedikas Chometz, because its purpose is for
Chag HaPesach itself--and we rely on the Shehechiyanu made on the Leil
HaSeder (similar to one building the Sukkah who relies on the Shehechiyanu
made on the first night of Sukkos). (Dirshu Notes 1 and 5)
B. According to the Shulchan Aruch HaRav, the obligation to check
for Chometz in places where there is regularly Chometz is MiD’Oraysa if one
is not mevatel his Chometz, but for places in which Chometz is not
usually stored or used but where it is possible that Chometz may have been
brought--even if one is not mevatel his Chometz, the chiyuv is MiD’Rabanan.
(Dirshu Note 15)
----------------------------------------------------
CHOMETZ
GEMACH IN FLATBUSH!
Between Purim and Pesach, bring your Chometz with a
reliable Hechsher and the Gemach sells it with its
Chometz (it sells real Chometz).
After Pesach everything is distributed it to those in need. Also accepting
donations to purchase supplies or extra food. For more information, please
call:
718-377-6361 or email
yitzchak@relkin.com (please write “Chametz
Gemach” in subject line). Active between Purim and
Pesach. The Gemach is located at 1101 East 3rd
Street--one should call before to make sure that someone is home to receive
the Chometz. All Chometz
must be dropped off by the day of bedikas chometz.
Last year, the Gemach
gathered and distributed almost 3,900 pounds of food. This year’s goal is to
go over 4,000 pounds. That’s right: the Gemach wants
to help people by distributing TWO TONS of food. Please help.
----------------------------------------------------
HATZALAH EREV SHABBOS ALERTS
1.
Consult a Rav concerning where to light Shabbos candles when young
children are present.
2.
Never leave children unattended with burning candles.
3.
After lighting candles have someone place matches securely away.
4.
Place the spout of a hot water urn away from counter edge. Do not
use an extension cord or leave it within child’s reach.
5.
Children should not be in the kitchen while preparations for Shabbos
are being made.
6.
Start Shabbos preparations early .Last minutes rushing causes
hazardous and hectic situations.
7.
Never hold a child while drinking a hot liquid.
8.
Take all phones off the hook before bathing children.
9.
Have all necessary equipment with you before putting your child in a
bath .
10.
Never, under any circumstances, leave a child alone in the tub-not
even for a moment! Take the child with you!
----------------------------------------------------
WE CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
1. The Targum to the Megillah (8:16) relates that one of the edicts of Haman
against the Jews was to not observe Shabbos. As we have noted in the past,
Haman instigated Achashveirosh against the Jews by saying they are
constantly claiming “Shabbos HaYom, Pesach HaYom” (Megillah 13B). We now
have the opportunity to rejoice in observing this Shabbos without
restriction and without restraint. One should be especially cognizant of
this fact as he enjoys his Shabbos meal, sings Zemiros, and actively and
outwardly practices his Shabbos observance.
2.
The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chayim 261:2)
rules that on Friday afternoon, one is obligated to fulfill Tosefes
Shabbos by adding on from Chol onto Shabbos. The
Mishna Berurah (seif katan 19) explains that this is a Torah
requirement-a Mitzvas Aseh D’Oraysa. Women fulfill this
mitzva dutifully by lighting the Shabbos candles 18 minutes
before shekiah and accepting Shabbos upon themselves
at
that time. Men, however, who do not typically accept Shabbos
upon themselves at candle lighting (even when they light
Shabbos candles), have to consciously be mekabel Shabbos
upon themselves before shekiah. Therefore, a man should
l’chatchila prior to shekiah verbally express that he is “accepting
upon
himself Shabbos for the purpose of Tosefes Shabbos”
(Mishne
Berurah 261:21). This should be done at least
two to
three minutes prior to shekiah (Igros Moshe, Orach
Chayim 1:96) and earlier if possible
(Mishne
Berurah, ibid. seif katan 22). Merely having in mind
to be
mekabel Tosefes Shabbos is only acceptable according to
some Poskim (Bach and Gra quoted by Mishne Brurah 553:2)
and
should be avoided if possible.
As the
Shulchan Aruch (263:15) and the Mishna
Berurah (seif
katan 43) pasken that once one has been mekabel
on
himself Tosefes Shabbos, he can no longer daven a weekday
Mincha, all of the above assumes that the person has already
davened Mincha and is now in a position to accept Tosefes
Shabbos on himself. Many minyonim, however, are in the
middle of Mincha when shekiah arrives. In this event, one
should then fulfill Tosefes Shabbos by verbally accepting Tosefes
Shabbos on himself as soon as he has finished his Shemone
Esrei (assuming it is still prior to shekiah).
Notwithstanding his
acceptance at that point of Shabbos, the Shmiras Shabbos
K’hilchosa (46:5) rules that he may still answer to the
Kedushah of Mincha. (This advice will not help the Shaliach
Tzibbur who has to repeat the weekday Shemone Esrei). The
Shmiras Shabbos K’hilchosa further actually rules that if a person
will not be in a position to finish his Shemone Esrei prior to
shekiah if he davens with the congregation, he should daven at
home alone, be mekabel on himself Tosefes Shabbos and then go to shul (one
may want to ask his Rav for a p’sak in his circumstances) . If a person
finds himself in the situation that he no
longer has sufficient time to both daven Mincha and accept on
himself Tosefes Shabbos prior to shekiah, as there is a
machlokes haposkim as to what one should do, one should
consult his Rav.
3. Rabbi
Mayer Birnbaum, Shlita, writes (in Shamor L’Kad’sho: Practical Halachos of
Shabbos, p.17), “If siddurim were piled up after a minyan, you may not sort
out the Ashkenaz and Sefard siddurim in order to put them away [however, if
you read a little from each siddur, you may put each one into its proper
place after reading from it] (Hilchos Shabbos by Rav Shimon Eider, Shlita,
p.184 and Igros Moshe, Orach Chaim 4:74 Borer #12).” Of course, Borer on
seforim applies to other mixtures of seforim as well. There may be cases
where you may be lenient in this area based on facts and circumstances.
Please consult your Rav with specific shailos.
4. Although it may not be well known, the Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch,
Orach Chaim 101, seif katan 19) rules that one davening privately on Shabbos
(i.e., in one’s home) should not recite either of the two paragraphs
beginning Yekum Purkan, as they are in Aramaic, and should only be
recited B’Tzibbur.
----------------------------------------------------
THE UNIQUE V’NAHAFOCH HU OF SHUSHAN PURIM!:
Whereas on other Yomim Tovim, the “second day of Yom Tov” is for the people
in Chutz L’Aretz, on Purim the “second day”--Shushan Purim--is for
Yerushalayim (and certain other formerly-walled cities, almost all of which
are in Eretz Yisrael, in which a Second Day is only celebrated for reasons
relating to a doubt as to the proper day to observe). Why the turnabout?
Why is the “Second Day of Yom Tov” observed in Yerushalayim on Purim unlike
all the other Chagim? Let us take a step back. The ikar, the essence,
of the celebration of the Shalosh Regalim--Pesach, Shavuos and Succos--is in
Eretz Yisrael, which is why they are referred to in the Torah as the Shalosh
Regalim--the three times a year we go up to Yerushalayim and the Beis
HaMikdash and bring sacrifices to rejuvenate ourselves through the open
miracles seen there (see these miracles listed in Avos 5:5) and inculcate
ourselves with the unique and sublime holiness of the people and the place
(See Sefer HaChinuch, Mitzvah 489, Bava Basra 21A and Tosfos there,
dibur hamaschil Ki Mitzion).
The Nes of Purim, on the other hand, is the last of our miracles found in
Tanach, and it is a miracle in a very different way, for it is a miracle
taking place in Chutz L’Aretz, and occurring, not instantaneously, but over
a multi-year period, all b’hester--concealed event after concealed
event after concealed event--until we looked back and determined that an
outstanding miracle had occurred.
Thus, unlike the Shalosh Regalim, which celebrated the open miracles of
Yetzias Mitzrayim, Matan Torah and the Ananei Kavod (the clouds of glory),
and which were replete with the miracles of Yerushalayim in their
observance, the miracle of Purim was a miracle for the Golus. It teaches us
how we are to lead our lives with Bnei Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael still in a
state of defilement and impurity. Indeed, the Gemara (Megillah 14A) teaches
that on Purim we do not read the regular Hallel in order to rejoice in the
remembrance of the miracle, but “the reading of the Megillah--this is the
Hallel.” The Megillah (the word is related to the Hebrew word “Megaleh”--to
reveal) reveals to us Hashem’s hidden, rather than open and clear role, in
our experiences, our successes and our sheer continuity in Galus.
On Purim, it is Yerushalayim in this sense that takes a “second day” because
the miracle of Purim is to be our guiding light through the Nisim Nistarim
of Golus which have occurred, primarily outside of Eretz Yisrael. Our role
is to uncover the Nissim, to recognize the hidden miracles of Hashem in our
every day lives. We can do this, overcoming the mirages, the illusions and
our own delusions of a lifestyle which does not have Hashem accompanying and
guiding us in our daily life, and replacing it with a sincere and meaningful
awareness that we should appreciate and thank Hashem for (as we recite in
Modim three times daily):
·
Al Nisecha She’Bakol Yom
Imanu-Your hidden miracles with us
every day,
·
Val Nifleosecha-Your
daily and natural wonders,
·
V’Tovasecha-Your
daily kindnesses,
·
She’bechol Es Erev
VaVoker V’Tzaharayim-which are not
only with us daily, but throughout the entire day--evening, morning and
afternoon….
If we can focus on these words three times a day, then we can demonstrate
that we have learned this key lesson of Golus and we can once again merit
the day when miracles are openly revealed to us and to all nations of the
world.
The unique period between Purim and Pesach is the period of time which leads
us from the hidden miracles of Purim to the revealed miracles of Pesach--let
us use this time wisely by coming to a proper appreciation of the lessons of
Purim--which will lead us to Pesach--in Yerushalayim on the First Day of Yom
Tov!
-------------------------------------------------------------
A
DIFFERENT THOUGHT ON SHUSHAN PURIM!
Shushan Purim is the Purim of Yerushalayim: Dovid HaMelech cries out in
Tehillim 122: “Sh’alu Shelom Yerushalayim Yishlayu Ohavoyich…pray for
the peace of Yerushalayim; those who love you [Yerushalayim] will be
serene.” The Radak in his commentary to this Pasuk teaches that these are
the words that Jews must utter in Galus--Pray to Hashem for the peace of
Yerushalayim. What is the “peace of Yerushalayim?” The Radak (almost
prophetically) writes that this can only be attained with kibutz galios--the
ingathering of the exiles--because there will not be peace as long as the “Arailim”
and “Yishma’aylim”--the Christians and Arabs--war over the City.
In his commentary to this very same Pasuk, HaRav Avrohom Chaim Feuer, Shlita,
brings the following Chazal (from Meseches Derech Eretz Zuta):
“HaKadosh Baruch Hu said to Bnei Yisrael: ‘It was you who caused the Bais
HaMikdash to be destroyed and My children to be driven into exile. All I
ask is that you pray for the peace of Yerushalayim and I will forgive you!’”
Let us honestly reflect: Haman was a Rasha, and Achashveirosh was a Rasha
and/or a fool, but ultimately it was the Jews at that time that got
themselves into that mess and had to get themselves out of it. The
responsibility for Yerushalayim--for our kibutz galios--which is so
imminent, falls squarely on our minds and hearts. We must hold ourselves
accountable, not as a matter of guilt, but as a matter of responsibility--to
ourselves, our families, and our people. Dovid HaMelech instructs us: “Sh’alu
Shelom Yerushalayim Yishlayu Ohavoyich”--Daven! Daven! Daven!
If one does not feel he has any more time to recite additional Tehillim
during the day, let him at least be sure to recite the brocha of “Vlirushalayim
Ircha”--which he is reciting in any event three times a day in Shemone
Esrei--with purity of mind and heart. For the next four weeks until Pesach,
let us use our power of prayer--for the sake of Yerushalayim, which is oh so
much for the sake of ourselves, for the sake of K’lal Yisrael--and for the
honor of Hashem!!
---------------------------------------------------------------------
A
REMINDER FROM THE PARASHA TO ENERGIZE DAILY!:
In this week’s Parasha, Parashas Tzav, we learn of the Korban Minchas
Chavitin--a Korban that the Kohen Gadol brought every day.
Rabbi Moshe Scheinerman, Shlita, explains (based upon a teaching of HaRav
Moshe Feinstein, Z’tl) why the Kohen Gadol brought this Korban every
day--while all other Kohanim brought this Korban Mincha only once in their
lifetime--on the day that they were inaugurated into the Avodas Bais
HaMikdash. The Kohen Gadol’s bringing it every day--one half in
the morning and one half on the afternoon especially symbolized
the need for a person of spirit and aspiration to be constantly renewing his
energies, being aware and alert that each new morning and each new afternoon
was OPPORTUNITY, NEW OPPORTUNITY that was presenting itself especially to
him, and would not be available again on the morrow. Each one of us,
without actually having to bring the Minchas Chavitin, can alert ourselves
to the invaluable and irreplaceable treasures that await us each morning and
each afternoon in Torah, Tefillah, Chesed, and Middos Development. Every
day, we have our own OPPORTUNITIES, NEW OPPORTUNITIES--and we too can come
before Hashem as a Kohen Gadol in his loyal, sincere and elevated service!
==============================
13 Adar II
FROM READERS:
1. “As
you had previously noted--please remind your readers that water does not
count as a manah of Mishloach Manos.”
2.
“Regarding the wonderful Gematria of Mordechai HaYehudi and Shakai--there is
another amazing related Gematria. That is--the Gematria of Mordechai
HaYehudi and Shakai (each 314) is also the Gematria of the first and last
word of the Megillah--teaching us that all of the events in the Megillah--from
beginning to end are from Hashem!”
3. “If
we are to do Teshuvah Bechol Yom--all the more so on Purim itself!”
4. “As
I focus on Tefillah which is so important on Purim--I will try to remember
that one of the reasons Chazal give for Esther’s inviting Haman to the
Mishteh was, and accordingly be lax in their Tefillos. Esther was teaching
us so that the Jew’s would not think that they had a ‘friend in office’
that at all times there is one and only one Source for our Yeshuos--Purim is
such a great time to go directly to our Source for them!”
----------------------------------------------------
WHAT CHAZAL SAY ABOUT A TA’ANIS:
Chazal
teach (Brachos 6B) Igra D’Tanisa Tzedkasa--to give Tzedaka today!
Hakhel Note:
Last
Call--From Yad Eliezer: “Last year, on Purim, you were a part of an
incredible act of Chesed. Yad Eliezer distributed $480,000 to Aniyim
throughout Eretz Yisrael. It went to people who needed it desperately.
We
have thousands of people waiting this year for this Matanos L’Evyonim.
May
HaKadosh Baruch Hu continue to bentsch us with the ability and the will to
care for K’lal Yisrael. Please contact us at www.yadeliezer.org , or by
calling 718-258-1580.
A
Freilichen Purim!”
----------------------------------------------------
HILCHOS PESACH FOR THE PURIM SEUDAH:
The Rema (in Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 695:2) writes that the Seudas
Purim, the festive Purim meal, should commence with Divrei Torah. The Mishna
Berurah (in Orach Chayim 429, seif katan 2) rules that one must begin
learning about Pesach on Purim--which is exactly 30 days before Pesach.
Accordingly, putting the Rema and Mishna Berurah together, it is therefore a
custom to commence the Purim Seudah with a Halacha about Pesach. In this
way, one also connects the Geulah of Purim to the Geulah of Pesach (see
Ta’anis 29A, which states that the reason we should increase our simcha to
such a great extent in Adar is because it is the commencement of both the
miracles of Purim and Pesach).
We
provide two Halachos for you to begin:
1. The
Rema (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 429:1) begins Hilchos Pesach by writing
that it is our Minhag to give wheat to the poor in order to help them
celebrate Pesach. The Mishna Berurah (seif katan 3) notes that this Minhag
dates back to the time of Chazal.
2.
Rabbi Shimon Eider, Z’tl, in the Halachos of Pesach writes that in lieu of
wheat, some have the custom to distribute flour or other food supplies. In
our time, most communities distribute money for the poor, in order for them
to purchase their needs. The leaders of our community do not tax or
otherwise assess their constituents, but instead everyone is expected to
give to the best of his ability.
Hakhel
Note: As we connect Matanos L’Evyonim to Ma’os Chitim--let us remember the
Pasuk (Yeshaya 1:27): “Tzion B’Mishpat Tipadeh V’Shaveha B’Tzedaka”--speedily
and in our day!
----------------------------------------------------
MISHNAYOS MESECHTA PESACHIM:
If you
start on Purim (which is 30 days before Pesach) and learn just three
Mishnayos a day--you will complete the entire Mishnayos Mesechta
Pesachim--for Pesach!
---------------------------------------------------------------
BRACHOS REMINDER:
As we partake of the Mishloach Manos and Seudas Purim--let us remember that
we can express our thanks to Hashem for these wonderful Mitzvos through the
sincere and Kavannah-filled brachos that we make over the Purim feast and
gifts He has given us--oh how the day is blessed! Dovid HaMelech (Tehillim
139:14) expresses it so beautifully: “Odecha Al Ki Nora’os Nifleisi,
Nifla’im Ma’asecha VeNafshi Yoda’as Me’od--I acknowledge You for I am so
awesomely fashioned; wondrous are Your works and my soul knows it well!”
---------------------------------------------------------------
TEFILLAH AHL HAGEULAH--ON
PURIM: May we
suggest that on the auspicious day of Purim we recite the Tefillah Al
HaGeulah we have previously distributed:
http://tinyurl.com/2u3l4e (Hebrew
version) and http://tinyurl.com/3ybyxq (English
version).
---------------------------------------------------------------
A
RECENT ADVERTISEMENT:
The following notice appeared in an advertisement regarding Purim: “On
Purim, when Tzedakah collectors enter your home, from yeshiva bochurim to
elderly Rabbanim, women should be extra vigilant in maintaining a modest
demeanor. In the zechus of your extra vigilance in adhering to the laws of
Tzniyus on this holy day, may you and your loved ones experience great
blessing and reward!”
---------------------------------------------------------------
FINAL 5776 PURIM MOMENT--EXPANDED!
1.
Mikrah Megillah: GREAT AND IMPORTANT REMINDER: When following the
Megillah Reading at night and in the morning your are urged to point from
word to word in order to keep yourself actively involved in following
Kriyas HaMegillah.
2.
Mishloach Manos:
A.
Mishloach Manos must just consist of two different portions of food--they
can both be meat, or any other type of food or drink (See Shulchan Aruch,
Orach Chaim 695:4 and Mishna Berurah there). Rabbi Shlomo Pearl, Z’tl,
brings that HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Braun, Z’tl, ruled that one may cut a
pineapple in half, put the two halves on a plate and be Yotzei the Mitzvah!
Not all would agree with this P’sak, and would require two different items.
See, for example, Aruch HaShulchan, Orach Chaim 695:14.
B.
Several people can ‘partner’ together for Mishloach Manos as long as there
are enough portions (two per giver) i.e., 12 people can jointly send 24
items to one person and all be Yotzei the Mitzvah! (Sefer Halichos Shlomo
p. 337)
C.
According to the Rambam (Hilchos Megillah 2:17) it is preferable to increase
the amount of Matanos L’Evyonim that you give over the amount of Mishloach
Manos. See the moving words of the Rambam there.
D. The
following are psakim of HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, relating to Misloach Manos,
excerpted from the Sefer Yevakshu MiPihu,
which contains hundreds of Pesakim of HaRav Elyashiv relating to Purim and
is available in many Seforim stores:
(i). Each portion given should be at least a kezayis, and should be
something that is viewed as chashuv. One could not, for instance, give a
slice of bread and an onion and be yotzeh the Mitzvah. However, one could
give chocolates or candies--provided that there is as least a kezayis of
them.
(ii). A roll and a container of butter (or jelly) are considered two
portions and one has fulfilled the mitzvah with them--but if the butter or
jelly has already been spread on the bread it is only one portion. Two kinds
of meat (prepared with different spices, or one cooked and the other
roasted) would also be considered two different portions.
(iii). One can be Yotzeh the Mitzvah by giving two kinds of wine, or two
kinds of soda. However, one is not yotzeh the Mitzvah with water, soda water
or mineral water.
(iv). One is not yotzeh the Mitzvah with tavlin such as a container of
tea bags or coffee. [The mechaber of the Sefer surmises that one could not
be yotzeh with a drink of tea or coffee--for that is only a combination of
two items that you cannot be yotzeh with--water and the tavlin of tea or
coffee]. One could be yotzeh with a container of sugar, since it is edible
as is.
(v). One is yotzeh the Mitzvah even if the food would taste better warmed
up--as long as it is edible as is.
(vi). It is better to give items which comport with the chashivus of the
giver and the receiver--but this is not me’akev, as long as the other
halachos (such as those above) are satisfied.
(vii). One can fulfill the mitzvah in giving to a parent--for one should be
‘BeRayus’ with them as well!
(viii).Children of age should give to their friends, A child who is 13
years old may give to his 12 year old friend (although he is still a katan)
and still be yotzeh the Mitzvah--as this is his Rayus.
(ix). One must know who sent the Mishloach Manos in order for the sender to
be yotzeh (it can’t be anonymous!)--otherwise there is no increase in love
and friendship.
(x).It is permitted to eat in the morning before performing the
Mitzvah. However, the Mitzvah of ‘Zerizin Makdimin’-- acting with alacrity
when performing Mitzvos--applies to Mishloach Manos as it applies to all
others!
3.
Matanos L’Evyonim:
A. One
can be Yotzei the Mitzvah with a check if the poor person can use it in a
store. (Sefer Halichos Shlomo p. 342)
B. The
Sefer Pele Yo’etz provides the following moving words regarding
Matanos L’Evyonim: “It is befitting to have mercy on them, and for one to
realize that just as money comes in it goes out--for the eyes of the poor
look to those who are wealthier--and the eyes of the wealthier look to
Hashem Who will give more if the person gives more. Accordingly, if one
feels weak or weakened by so much giving, he should realize that ‘Birkas
Hashem Hi Ta’ashir--the bracha of Hashem will make one wealthy’, and he
should strengthen himself by saying “Gibor Ani”--I am a Gibor to help
those whom Hashem wants me to help--and Hashem will help them--and you!”
Hakhel
Note: HaRav Naftali Kaplan, Shlita, points out that when giving, your
feelings and attitude towards the fifth, tenth, fifteenth and twentieth
recipient, should be no different than your feelings and attitude towards
the first!
4.
Seudas Purim:
A. For
those of you will be making a Siyum on Mesechta Megillah or Mishnayos
Megillah as part of our daily program--Mazel Tov and many, many more!!
B.
Some have the custom of eating zaronim at the Purim Seudah, in
remembrance of the food that Esther, as well as Doniyel, Chananya, Mishael
and Azarya had to eat while in the royal court. Some Poskim hold that
Zaronim need not necessarily be beans or seeds--but can be any vegetables.
C. If
a father tells his son not to get drunk on Purim, the son should listen to
him--for he can fulfill the Mitzvah of drinking through drinking a little
more than usual and going to sleep--and still beautifully fulfill the
Mitzvas Asei D’Oryasah of Kibbud Av Va’eim! (Rabbi Shlomo Pearl, Z’tl)
Hakhel Note: For a listing of Rabbi Pearl’s Shiurim visit
www.SeeTorah.com
D. Let
us remember an essential result of Purim--’Kiymu VeKiblu--the Jewish
People reaffirmed their voluntary commitment to the Torah.’ Rashi (Shabbos
88A) importantly explains that the reason that we uniquely reaffirmed our
commitment after Purim was ‘MeiAhavas HaNeis SheNa’aseh Lahem’--from
the love, from the deep appreciation of the miracle that was performed on
their behalf. HaRav Henoch Leibowitz, Z’tl, teaches that if we truly
appreciate Purim--if we too have an Ahavas HaNeis--then each and every one
of us should undertake his own Kiymu VeKiblu. At the Purim Seudah
itself--one may want to Bli Neder take on his own Kiymu VeKiblu in
Torah--and perhaps encourage others to do so as well. Here as an example is
a simple suggestion: In the Iggeres HaRamban, the Ramban writes that when
one completes his studies he should search for something that he can take
with him and apply or fulfill. Make it a part of each study session--before
you “close the book… or mp3 or cd” think about something that you learned
and how and will it have a daily Kiyum in your life. With this you
can take the Kiymu VeKiblu with you every day of the year! Remember--Mishna
Yomis beginning March 30th!
---------------------------------------------------------------
A
GRAGER FOR ONE AND ALL!
As we
have noted in the past, the Rema (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chayim 690:17)
writes “the children’s custom is to make an image of Haman HaRasha on sticks
or stones, or to write the name of Haman HaRasha on them, and to hit them
against each other, so that his name is erased…and from here comes the
custom to make noise at the mention of the name of Haman HaRasha when the
Megillah is read in Shul--and one should not be Mevatel (nullify) a Minhag
(custom) or make light of it.”
The
Mishna Berurah there (seif katan 59) writes that this is not only the Minhag
of children, but of adults, as well, and adds that the Chacham Tzvi would
bang with his leg at the mention of Haman HaRasha. Although many communities
and Rabbonim objected to this custom as disturbing the Megillah reading and
perhaps for other reasons, it is indeed reported that the Chofetz Chaim
himself stomped with his foot when Haman HaRasha’s name was mentioned (Chofetz
Chaim Chayav U’Poalo). The Piskei Teshuvos (6:554) notes that
this was the Minhag of other Gedolei Yisrael, as well.
The
Piskei Teshuvos (ibid.) brings the explanation of the Chasam Sofer as to
why we have noise and disturbance--so as to demonstrate that we do not want
to hear his name. We may add that we should feel the same way about other
Reshaim--past and present. After all, the Posuk in Mishlei 10:7 states, “V’Shem
Reshaim Yirkav--the name of the wicked shall rot.” It is one thing to
take something into your mouth not knowing it was rotten, but would you let
your mouth touch something knowing it was spoiled?! This is something we
would most certainly be careful about. Our noise and stomping at the mention
of his name are the equivalent of saying the words “Yimach Sh’mo” (we
just do not want to talk during K’riyas HaMegillah)--which is like ejecting
the rotten item out of your mouth. See Sefer Avudraham 2:230-231. We
must recognize that Haman HaRasha’s despised name had to be written (in
various ways) in the Megillah only for the very many lessons and reasons
that the Anshei Knesses HaGedolah determined with their Ruach HaKodesh.
The
Piskei Teshuvos (ibid.) adds from the Ba’al Shevet Mussar, Z’tl, and Rav
Chaim Pilagi, Z’tl, that when we hit at the mention of Haman HaRasha’s (and
according to some Minhagim, his family members’) name, Hashem makes him
actually feel these smites--so that he is in tremendous pain. Why? Because
the miracle of Purim happened to every Jew in every generation--after all,
if Haman HaRasha’s plan had been successful, R’L, we would never have been
born. Therefore, he must feel all of the smites of all Jews of all
generations since Purim.
Let us
appreciate Purim deeply--and literally rejoice in our salvation.
---------------------------------------------------------------
THE
HALACHOS OF ONE WHO IS INTOXICATED:
The following Important Halachos
were provided to us by Rabbi Yisroel Pinchos Bodner, Shlita:
1. Three Halachic Levels of Intoxication
Chazal
classify a person who has been drinking wine or other alcoholic beverages
into one of three halachic levels of intoxication.
A. High (shosuy) – he drank three or more ounces of wine or one to
two ounces of whiskey, and feels relaxed and somewhat euphoric (“high”). He
has minor impairment of reasoning and memory but is in control of his
actions and his speech.
B. Recognizably Drunk (shikur) - i.e., to the extent that he is
“unable to speak to a king.” The Poskim explain that a person is in this
category when his drunkenness can be recognized by his difficulty in walking
or balance, and/or if his speech is slurred. One would not want to be in a
position to have to speak to his boss, and would certainly be unable to
speak to a king in that condition.
C. Drunk “Like Lot” (shikur k’Lot) – i.e., he is disoriented and has
inadequate comprehension of where he is or what he is doing.
2. Davening while Under the Influence
The Shulchan Aruch states that one should l’chatchilla not
daven (Sh’mone Esrei or Sh’ma) if he is even just a little
high. Rather, he should try to eliminate his intoxication by taking a walk,
or a short nap, before endeavoring to daven. Nevertheless, on Purim some
Poskim permit a person who is “high” to daven
l’chatchilla, provided that he is not at the intoxication level of
“recognizably drunk”. In such a case, he should take care to daven from a
siddur.
According to all views, if he is at the intoxication level of “recognizably
drunk” he must absolutely refrain from davening. If he insists on davening
in that condition, his davening is not valid, and he must daven again when
he is sober.
Thus, if after the Purim seuda one was at the level of “recognizably drunk”
he should not attempt to daven maariv. Rather he should go to sleep
and try to wake up before alos hashachar (72 minutes before sunrise)
and daven at home. If he was unable to get up, he should daven a second
Shemone Esrei at shacharis as restitution for missing maariv.
Hakhel
Note: One should advise those who are in level B or C as to how to properly
conduct themselves as to davening.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Our
Annual Purim Bonus Below!
Over the last two weeks, we have provided questions and answers, which are
culled together here, along with additional questions:
QUESTIONS AND
ANSWERS FOR THE PURIM SEUDAH
The
following Questions and Answers are Kosher for Purim and Year-Round use:
QUESTION:
In what year of the Jewish calendar did Purim occur?
ANSWER: According
to Yalkut Me’am Loez, Achashveirosh came to power in the year 3392,
and Haman was hung in 3404.
QUESTION: How
many years did Purim occur before Chanukah?
ANSWER: Approximately
216 years (Sefer Targum Sheini by Rav Tzvi Dov Cohen, Shlita).
QUESTION: Why
isn’t the Shaim Hashem in the Megillah?
ANSWER: Many
answer because Hashem’s presence is hidden in the in the subtle events of
the Megillah. We may suggest that this is to teach us that we should not
fool ourselves--the final battle with Amaleik was not fought then. Only when
the final battle is fought before the building of the Third Beis HaMikdash
will Hashem’s Name become complete. Hakhel Reminder: Chazal teach that
whenever the term ‘HaMelech’ is used in the Megillah in lieu of HaMelech
Achashveirosh that it also LeHavdil refers to Hashem (Esther Rabba 3:10).
Look out for it and think about how!
QUESTION: How
many wars between Bnei Yisrael and Amaleik are mentioned in Tanach?
ANSWER:
Actually, there were at least eleven (11) battles with Amalek in Tanach, in
one form or another. In the Torah--3 BATTLES: a) Shemos 17: 8 and Devorim
25:17; b) Bamidbar 14:45; and c) Bamidbar 21:1 and 33:40. In Neviim--6
BATTLES : a) Shoftim 3:13; b) Shoftim 6:3; c) Shoftim 6:33; d) Shmuel Aleph
14:48; e) Shmuel Aleph 15:3; f) Shmuel Aleph 30:1. In Kesuvim--2 BATTLES: a)
Divrei HaYamim Aleph 4:43…and of course b) MEGILLAS ESTHER! It is clear that
this nation has really been out to get us--but in the end we will prevail!
QUESTION: Who
was the king before Achashveirosh?
ANSWER: Coresh-see
first Rashi to the Megillah.
QUESTION: Who
brought Mordechai from Bavel to Shushan?
ANSWER: Coresh--see
Targum to Megillah 2:6.
QUESTION: Mordechai
was the tenth generation to which great personage?
ANSWER: Shaul
HaMelech (Targum Sheni 2:5)
QUESTION: What
other name was Achashveirosh known by in Tanach?
ANSWER: Artachshaste, mentioned in Ezra 4:7. Chazal (Esther Rabbah
1:3) note and interpret each name.
QUESTION: Can you give at least three reasons why Achashveirosh made
his incomparable Mishte at the outset of the Megillah?
ANSWER: 1.
Because he stopped the building of the Beis HaMikdash, and he was sure the
Beis HaMikdash would no longer be rebuilt. With the party, he wanted to
happily demonstrate his final and complete rulership over the Jews (based
upon the Alshich). 2. In honor of his birthday (Midrash Aba Gurion). 3. It
was his wedding feast with Vashti, and this is why Vashti also made a party
(see Targum Yonasan, Ibn Ezra, and Kad HaKemach).
QUESTION: Why
does the Megillah go to such great lengths to describe the wealth of
Achashveirosh’s palace and party? Why do we care?!
ANSWER: It
is to teach us that if this is what those who anger Hashem receive--Kal
Vachomer to those who do Hashem’s will! The G’ra (Al Derech Hapshat)
adds that it is to teach that--if this is how grand Olam Hazeh is – imagine
how great Olam Habah will be--after all, an hour of Olam Habah is worth all
of Olam Hazeh of all time!
QUESTION: Why
didn’t Achashveirosh force people to drink to join in his joy--why was there
no “Oness” to drink?
ANSWER: The
Megillas Sesorim (Megillah 1:8) explains that Achashveirosh wanted the Jews
to sin willingly--”Kedi SheYehenu Beratzon.”
QUESTION: What
did Mordechai do during the seven days of Achashveirosh’s party?
ANSWER: He
served as a Sar HaMashkim, as did Haman (see Rashi to Megillah 1:8). HaRav
Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, explains that he did this in order to save Bnei
Yisrael from Ma’acholos Asuros. However, the Targum teaches that he wasn’t
there and that he davened, and did not eat and drink, for the seven days of
the party (Targum Esther 1:10 ).
QUESTION: One
of the especially named attendees at the Mishte were the ’HaPartemim’(Esther
1:3)--what does ‘HaPartemim’ mean?
ANSWER: Some form of rulership. The Me’am Lo’ez writes that they
ruled over areas near the Euphrates , the Pras River --hence the letters of
the word Peih Reish Tes Mem Yud Mem.
QUESTION: According
to the opinion that Memuchan was Haman:
(A) why was it, BeHashgacha, that he had to give the advice to kill Vashti?;
and (B) Also, al pi hatevah--why would he want to kill Vashti--what did she
do to him already?!
ANSWER: (A) So that he himself should be the cause for Esther to
marry Achashveirosh--so that she could kill him and his sons. (B) He saw
through sorcery that a queen would kill him and he thought it would be
Vashti.
QUESTION: What
is the significance in the fact that the Gematria of Haman and HaMelech are
the same?
ANSWER: One
may suggest that that this is to signify that both Achashveirosh and Haman
had the same feeling of hatred towards Bnei Yisrael.
QUESTION: Why
didn’t Esther relate where she was from?
ANSWER: The easy answer is, because Mordechai instructed her not
to--as the Pasuk clearly states (Esther 2:20). As to the reason for
Mordechai’s instruction, various explanations are given--including a
recognition by Mordechai that perhaps some disaster was going to threaten
K’lal Yisrael and her royal position would be the means of their
salvation--identifying herself now as a Jew could mean an early end to her
position. The Gemara (Megillah 13B) additionally indicates that, even if
there was not an absolute directive by Mordechai to hide her identity,
Esther herself did not want to reveal to Achashveirosh her royal ancestry
(she was a descendant of Shaul HaMelech)--because of her tzniyus and anava.
QUESTION: Why
was Mordechai sitting at the Sha’ar HaMelech not a ‘give away’ as to where
Esther was from?
ANSWER: Daniel appointed his friends to high positions, and appointed
Mordechai to be one of the people in the Sha’ar HaMelech before Esther was
taken as queen (Ibn Ezra).
QUESTION: Instead
of blatantly not bowing to him, why didn’t Mordechai simply avoid Haman and
not go near him?
ANSWER: There
are various explanations for this. The Chofetz Chaim learns that Mordechai
was correcting the mistake of his ancestor Shaul HaMelech, who had
compassion on Haman’s ancestor, the King of Amalek--Agag. As a result of
this misplaced pity, Haman was eventually born and issued his evil edicts.
Mordechai, therefore, was unyielding, and stood up to Haman like a pillar of
iron refusing to give even an inch for the sake of the honor of Heaven and
the honor of Klal Yisrael.
QUESTION: Why
didn’t Mordechai and Esther let Achashveirosh be killed by Bigsan and Seresh
so that Esther could be freed and go back to Mordechai and her people?
ANSWER: She
would have been taken as the queen by the next king anyways, and Mordechai
and Esther understood that a special Hatzalah of Bnei Yisrael would result
from the unique circumstance of her being taken as queen.
QUESTION: Why
didn’t Mordechai tell Achashveirosh of the plot of Bigsan Veseresh
directly--why did he relate it through Esther?
ANSWER: He wanted Esther to be more highly regarded and more
influential before the king (Yosef Lekach).
QUESTION: What
was the sin committed by Bnei Yisrael that prompted the great gezeira against
them?
ANSWER: The
Gemara (Megillah 11A and 12A) lists three reasons: 1) a laxity in Torah
study and Mitzvah observance; 2) participating in Achashveirosh’s first
party in which he used the Keilim of the Beis HaMikdash, and which he hosted
in celebration of the Jews not being redeemed; and 3) bowing down to the
tzelem (idol) of Nevuchadnezzar and/or Haman--, which violated a prohibition
of Avoda Zara. HAKHEL NOTE: We see how severe sin the first one
really is, if it can be compared to such grievous sins as the second two!
QUESTION: On
what day did Haman make the “Pur”?
ANSWER: The
13th day of Nisan (see Rashi to Mesechta Megillah 15A and Malbim
to Esther 3:7).
QUESTION: If
the Megillah says that a ‘Pur’ is simply a Goral, a lottery, why is the term
‘Pur’ used at all?
ANSWER: ’Pur’
indicates a lottery for the bad, whereas Goral indicates a lottery for the
good (HaRav Yaakov MiLisa). Hakhel Note: Thus we see the Venahafoch Hu in
the name Purim itself! Alternatively, the ‘Pur’ is a special name for the
dice that Haman cast (Ya’aros Devash).
QUESTION: Why
was Achashveirosh’s notice to kill the Jews issued so far--almost a year--
in advance--didn’t he realize that this would provide ample time for the
Jews to act?
ANSWER: It was done at Haman’s urging so that the king would not
rescind the decree, for once it was sealed with the royal seal, it could not
be recalled (Malbim Manos HaLevi). Alternatively, one can suggest that
Achashveirosh thought the Jews were powerless before Hashem, based on his
miscalculation they were “not redeemed at the end of their 70 year exile.”
QUESTION: The
Megillah records that ’Pashegen HaKesav’ (Esther 3:14 )--what
does the word “Pashegen” mean?
ANSWER: Rashi
and the Ibn Ezra write that Pashegen means: the text, the nussach,
the content. Artscroll translates it as “copies” (of the document containing
the decree).
QUESTION: How
many humps did the Achashdranim Bnei HaRamachim have? How many legs
did it have?
ANSWER: According
to HaRav Yaakov Emden, Z’TL (Megillah 18A), these were a unique type of
camel with two humps and eight legs, and were accordingly, exceedingly fast.
Fascinatingly HaRav Emden notes that these camels were reportedly in
existence in Persia even in his time. According to others, the phrase refers
to a special type of mule which was driven by expert riders. (See Ibn Ezra
to Esther 8:11 and Rashash to Megillah 18A).
QUESTION: In
addition to his plan to kill all the Jews, what edicts did Haman immediately
issue against them?
ANSWER: Chazal
(Megillah 16B) teach us what the other edicts were from the Pasuk “LaYehudim
Hoysa Orah…” (Esther 8:16 ): The additional decrees included prohibiting
the study of Torah, the observance of Shabbos and Yom Tov, performing a Bris
Mila and the wearing of Tefillin (see Targum Sheini).
QUESTION: Why
did Esther initially refuse Mordechai’s request to appear before the king?
ANSWER: She
thought that she did not have to put herself into danger without first being
called by Achashveirosh, as there would be ample time over the year to speak
to him, and she would probably see Achashveirosh soon as she had not seen
him in 30 days.
QUESTION: Why
did Mordechai emphasize to Esther that she should not be silent “Ba’eis Hazos”--at
this time?
ANSWER: Because
it was Nissan, the time of Geulah, and one should not wait for a different
time.
QUESTION: Why
did Esther ask first that the people fast for her, and then state that she
and her maidens would also fast--wouldn’t it have been Derech Eretz for her
to say that she would fast--and then ask them to fast too?
ANSWER: Chazal (Bava
Kama 82A) teach that if one davens for his friends and needs the same thing,
then he is answered first. She therefore asked them to fast for her, so that
they would be answered and saved first (Maharal).
QUESTION: Why did
Esther ask that everyone fast for three days?
ANSWER:
Chazal teach that Kinah (jealousy), Ta’ava (desire), and Kavod (honor
seeking) take a person out of this world. Thus, one day was designated for
each of these Middos, as the Zohar HaKadosh teaches that Yamim represent
Middos--these three Middos that had to be corrected (Pri Tzaddik, Parashas
Chukas).
QUESTION: The
Megillah teaches that Esther told Mordechai that not only should the Bnei
Yisrael not eat and drink for three days--but that she and her Na’aros would
also fast. Yet, she said “Gam Ani Ven’aarosai Atzum Kein”--Atzum is
in first person singular. What happened to her maidens--weren’t they
supposed to fast as well?
ANSWER: Rav
Shlomo Kluger, Z’tl, in the Sefer HaChaim explains that Esther could only
state what she knew to be the truth--that she would fast. She did not know
what her Na’aros would do privately and she would not say something that she
did not know for certain to be the truth.
QUESTION: Who
in the Megillah was smitten BeSanveirim (illusions) and how was he
cured?
ANSWER: The
Sefer Orah VeSimcha brings the Midrash that Achashveirosh was
suffering from Sanveirim--but when Esther came to the Chatzer, Gavriel
tilted the king’s head towards her and he was healed. Achashveirosh
therefore put out his golden scepter to bring her closer since he was healed
by seeing her.
QUESTION: Why
did the tree that Haman had prepared for Mordechai have to be 50 Amos tall?
ANSWER: Haman
was afraid that the noose would break, and that Mordechai would thereupon be
free of the death penalty (as is the custom in all kingdoms), he thus wanted
to ensure that Mordechai would die from the fall in all events (Ben Dovid).
Alternatively, Haman saw Mordechai in a dream flying on top of his house. He
knew that dreams have substance, so he wanted the tree to be higher than his
house to ensure that this was the meaning of the dream. What the dream
really meant would be (and was) that Mordechai was placed “Al Beis Haman--in
charge of Haman’s house” shortly thereafter!
QUESTION: According
to Chazal, how many students was Mordechai learning with when Haman came in
to take him on the royal horse?
ANSWER: Twenty-two
thousand. This is equivalent to the number of Malochim who escorted Hashem
to Har Sinai. This perhaps demonstrates the new Kabalas HaTorah by Bnei
Yisrael of Kiymu V’Kiblu…we replaced the Malochim when we accepted
the Torah of our own free will!
QUESTION: How
could Mordechai ask Haman for a haircut, after all it was the 16th of
Nissan--the first day of Chol HaMoed?
ANSWER:
The Maharatz Chayes explains that because Mordechai was wearing sack cloth
and ashes, and was about to put on royal garments, he was treated as one who
had just left the Beis HaAssurim--who is permitted to take a hair cut on
Chol HaMoed!
QUESTION: Why
did Esther invite Haman to her party with Achashveirosh? The Gemara gives 12
reasons and Eliyahu HaNavi (as quoted in the Gemara) confirms that Esther
had all 12 of them in mind. Can you name at least three?
ANSWER: The
Gemara may be found in Megillah 15B. Here are several reasons: a) she wanted
Achashveirosh to suspect that she and Haman were plotting together against
him; b) she wanted the Jews not to be overconfident with her political
abilities to get them out of their life threatening situation--by her
inviting Haman to the party(!), they would daven with even greater
intensity; c) she wanted all the other ministers to be jealous of Haman and
so unite against him; d) she wanted Haman to be available to trip himself up
in some way ; e) so that Achashveirosh would not realize that she was Jewish
prior to the party ; and f) so that Hashem would have special mercy on
her--seeing that she, a Nevia and a Tzadekes, would have to be in the same
room with this arch-enemy of the Jews.
QUESTION: At
the first Mishte--Esther’s request was that Achashveirosh and Haman come
back for a second Mishte--why couldn’t she accomplish her goal at the first
Mishte?
ANSWER: Esther
did not sense any change that had occurred in K’lal Yisrael’s situation at
the time--and she was expecting to see a sign that the Tefillos and fasts
were accepted. Indeed, the next morning brought Haman parading Mordechai
through the streets of the capital--the sign was there! (Ibn Ezra)
Alternatively, the Chasam Sofer explains that Amaleik is defeated by “Machar”--you
wait until ‘tomorrow’ in order to defeat them (see Rashi to Shmuel I 30:17).
QUESTION: Esther
told Achashveirosh “She’eilasi U’Vakashasi”. What is the difference
between a She’eilah and a Bakasha?
ANSWER:
Some explain that a She’eilah is for the short term, and Bakasha is
for the long term. It is for this reason that Esther later said “Nafshi
V’She’eilasi VeAmi BeVakashasi” (7:3)--for it was the nation’s long term
future that was at stake, not only the life of Esther.
QUESTION: For how
long was Haman hung on the tree?
ANSWER: From
16 Nisan--until 14 Adar of the next year. This was for the world to see that
the Bnei Yisrael were not to be killed but respected. Finally, on the 14th of
Adar almost a year later, his sons were hung on the gallows below him (Shailos
U’Teshvous Torah LeShma 321, based upon the Targum Sheni).
QUESTION: Why
is Haman specifically called an Agagi (8:3) when Esther pleads with
Achashveirosh to reverse his decree after Haman was hanged?
ANSWER: The
Bnei Yissaschar explains that usually when a ruler dies, his decrees are
nullified, as his death is viewed as a sign that the decree was
inappropriate. However, because Haman was an Agagi and not really from the
ruling authority of Paras U’Madai, the decree was not nullified, and
Esther had to make a special appeal.
QUESTION: Agag
and Haman each had a son with the same name--what was it?
ANSWER: Veyzasa
(see Esther 9:9 and Targum Sheni).
QUESTION: Which
son of Haman was hung on the lowest rung of the gallows, hanging just an
Amah above the ground?
ANSWER: Veyzasa
(Targum Sheini 9:14). There is a reason for everything--even as to how and
where each of our enemies are punished--otherwise Chazal would not record
it. We similarly find at the Yam Suf that the Mitzriyim were punished in
different ways (being treated in the waters as lead, stones, or straw,
depending upon how they treated the Bnei Yisrael). Everything has a
Cheshbon--everything!
QUESTION: What
was the special cause of VeHa’ir Shushan Tzahala VeSameicha (and the
city of Shushan rejoiced)--how was Shushan’s Simcha different from the Jews’
Simcha of Layehudim Hoysa Orah VeSimcha...?
ANSWER: Not only were the Jews happy, but those who respected true
justice were happy as well. When Haman’s decree was first issued, the city
of Shushan was Navocha--they were confused (Manos HaLevi). This was a direct
fulfillment of the Pasuk teaches “Birvos Tzaddikim Yismach Ha’am…when
the righteous become great the people will rejoice, when the wicked men rule
the people sigh.” (Mishlei 29:2) Alternatively, the term “VeHa’ir Shushan”
indicates that not only did the people rejoice, but even the inanimate
objects of the city--the trees and rocks also rejoiced together with the
rejoicing of Mordechai HaTzaddik.
QUESTION: Why
did Achashveirosh suddenly turn from a Jew-hater into a king who provided a
royal decree helping the Jews to quash all of their enemies?
ANSWER:
The Sefer Ya’aros Devash explains that Achashveirosh, through
necromancy, learned that his successor as king would be a Jew. He bitterly
hated the Jews for this reason, for he assumed that they would rebel against
him and take over his throne. When he learned that Esther was a Jew--he
realized that his son Daryavesh--a Jew--would be the next king, and he was
greatly relieved and pleased that the rulership would stay in his ‘family’.
QUESTION: Why
is Charvona “Zachur Latov”?
ANSWER: Some
learn that the officer Charvona is spelled earlier in the Megillah with an
“Aleph”, and later in the Megillah with a “Hey” (when he tells Achashveirosh
about Haman’s tree) because it is actually not the same person. Earlier in
the Megillah (1:10) he is an officer of Achashveirosh. Later, it is Eliyahu
HaNavi, merely posing as Charvona, who we remember for the good. Others
learn that the officer Charvona had Hirhurei Teshuva, and is thus remembered
for the good.
QUESTION:
How many mishtaos, or parties, are mentioned all-told in the Megillah?
ANSWER: Six--a)
the Mishte of Achashveirosh for all of Persia; b) the additional Mishte
which Achashveirosh made for seven days for just Shushan; c) the separate
Mishte of Vashti; d) the Mishte made by Achashveirosh when Esther became
queen; e) the first Mishte among Esther, Achashveirosh and Haman; f) the
next day--the second Mishte among Esther, Achashveirosh and Haman. If that
isn’t enough, the Megillah separately records that Haman and Achashveirosh
sat down separately simply “to drink” when the King’s initial order against
the Jews was sent out (Esther 3:15 )!
QUESTION: How
many people were hanged in the course of the Megillah?
ANSWER: 13--Haman,
his ten sons, Bigsan, and Seresh.
QUESTION: Name
two evil people in the Megillah whose names rhyme.
ANSWER: Zeresh
and Seresh (Seresh, one of the infamous plotters whose plan was overheard by
Mordechai).
QUESTION: Why
did Esther request of the king that the Bnei Yisrael be given an extra day
to fight their enemies in Shushan (Megillah 9:13 )?
ANSWER: The
Megillas Sesarim (HaRav Yaakov MeLisa--the Nesivos) writes that Shushan had
more Kedusha in it because the Sanhedrin was there, and because Mordechai
was a Navi. When Haman’s Gezeira was put into effect the Kedusha was lost,
and could not return until the Tumah was eradicated. Esther saw that the
Ruach HaKodesh had not yet come back, so she understood that the Tumah in
the city was still there. Accordingly, the 10 sons of Haman had to be hung,
the other Amaleikim in the city obliterated--and the Kedusha then returned!
QUESTION: What
happened to Zeresh?
ANSWER: Well,
first of all, we curse her every year--”Arura Zeresh Aishes Mafchidi”.
The Targum ( 9:14 ) writes that she ran away with 70 of her sons, and they
became beggars. A Rav taught that this was truly a tremendous
punishment--for not only is an ani considered like a mais--but she lived to
see Mordechai the Jew in control of all Haman’s property and possessions.
QUESTION: What
happened to all of Haman’s possessions?
ANSWER: The
Midrash (Shocher Tov 22) teaches that Haman’s money was distributed as
follows: 1/3 to Mordechai and Esther, 1/3 to those involved in Torah study,
and 1/3 toward reconstruction of the Beis Hamikdash. What a V’Nahafoch Hu!
QUESTION: Why
do the unwalled cities and walled cities have different days for observing
Purim?
ANSWER: The Shoel
U’Maishiv brings the Ramban who writes that the walled city dwellers
didn’t sense the miracle as much because they thought that they were secure
in their walled cities--and Mordechai and Esther got them to understand that
the miracle very much applied to them as well! Do you think you’re secure
because you have an alarm system?...
QUESTION:
If you rearrange the letters of “Shushan”, what does it spell?
ANSWER:
“Sasson”--or happiness!
QUESTION:
Identify six instances of Middah K’neged Middah that appear in the
Megillah.
ANSWER:
a) Vashti made Jewish girls who were her captives work for her
unclothed--and so she was ordered to come before the king unclothed (Megillah
12B); b) Haman was hung on the tree that he prepared for Mordechai; c)
Bigsan and Seresh wanted to kill the king, yet they were killed instead; d)
The Jews ate and drank at Achashveirosh’s party, so they were forced to fast
for three days; e) Haman wanted everyone to bow to him--at the penalty of
death, and in the end Achashveirosh ordered him to be killed--because he
fell before Esther; and f) Mordechai put on sackcloth and ashes on his head
over what Haman had decreed, and in the end, took over Haman’s position,
wearing the royal apparel and a large gold crown.
QUESTION: What
famous American object has the same gematria as “Amaleik”? What can you
learn from that?
ANSWER: Amaleik
has the same gematria as “dollar”--both have the numerical equivalent of
240. As far as the lesson, we will only point to Amaleik’s grandfather--Esav--and
his passion for money and worldly goods. We leave other lessons up to you.
QUESTION: Which
cities in Eretz Yisrael (and outside it) in our time would read the Megillah
on two days--the fourteenth and the fifteenth of Adar because of a doubt as
to whether they were walled from the time of Yehoshua Bin Nun?
ANSWER: According
to the Sefer Adar U’Purim by HaRav Yoel Schwartz, Shlita: Among the
cities--In Eretz Yisrael: Chevron, Yafo, Gush Chalav, Akko, Tzefas, Lod,
Shechem and Teveria (which is a separate issue--See Megillah 5B). In Chutz
La’Aretz: Damascus and Baghdad .
QUESTION: What
are the last five seforim in Tanach?
ANSWER: According
to the printed Tanach, the last five Seforim are the Megillos of Koheles and
Esther, followed by Daniel, Ezra-Nechemia and Divrei HaYamim. However, the
Gemara in Bava Basra 14B-15A lists the following as the last Seforim of
Tanach: Eichah (describing the Churban), followed by Daniel, Megillas
Esther, Ezra-Nechemia and Divrei HaYamim. This second listing is, obviously,
also chronological, as Sefer Daniel discusses periods prior to the events of
Megillas Esther.
QUESTION: Who
in the Megillah sought after the peace of one person and was rewarded with
being Zoche to seek the peace of his entire people?
ANSWER: The
Megillah teaches that Mordechai went “Lidrosh Es Shlom Esther”
(2:11). Chazal teach that Hashem said “You went to seek the peace of one
person--in this merit you will seek the peace of your entire nation--Vedover
Shalom Lechol Zaro.” (Esther Raba 6:6). What a great lesson--how great
it is to seek someone else’s peace--think about to where it can lead!
Perhaps our Mishloach Manos and Matanos L’Evyonim are to serve as our jump
start in seeking the peace of others!
QUESTION: How
many words are there in the “Al Hanisim” of Purim?
ANSWER: In
Nusach Ashkenaz, there are 68. HaRav Yaakov Emden in his Siddur writes that
68 is the Gematria of “Chaim”--and we thank Hashem for the life he granted
us at that time--which has its life-bearing effects to this day, which will
continue forever and ever!
QUESTION: Why
do we refer to the giving of gifts as Mishloach Manos, and not merely as
Shlo’ach Manos?
ANSWER:
The letter mem means ‘from’. The Pasuk states ‘Mishloach Manos
Ish L’Rei’aihu U’Matanos LaEvyonim’ (Esther 9:22). The goal is that from dedicated
Mishloach Manos will result sincere Matanos LaEvyonim as well!
QUESTION: True
or false? In order to fulfill the mitzvah of Mishloach Manos, you must give
two different foods that have two different Brachos.
ANSWER: False.
Mishloach Manos must just consist of two different portions of food--they
can both be meat, or any other type of food or drink (See Shulchan Aruch,
Orach Chaim 695:4 and Mishna Berurah there).
QUESTION: What
did the G’ra send for Mishloach Manos?
ANSWER: The
Sefer Ma’aseh Rav (249) provides the answer: Cooked chicken and
cooked fish, and similar ready-to-eat items.
QUESTION: How
can one fulfill the principle of Nosei BeOl Im Chaveiro by accepting Mishloach
Manos?
ANSWER:
The Torah Jew generally does not like to receive gifts as that Pasuk
teaches, Sonei Matanos Yichyeh. Thus, by accepting another’s gift to
help him fulfill the Mitzvah, one is overcoming his overall hesitancy to
accept gifts!
QUESTION: What
is the source for the wearing of costumes on Purim?
ANSWER:
The Sefas Emes explains that after Achashveirosh’s second decree in favor of
the Jews, many people dressed up as Jews (Misyahadim) in order to save their
lives. We dress up to remind ourselves of how they dressed up--to be like
us!
QUESTION: Why were two days of Purim necessary --Purim itself and
Shushan Purim, after all, was not the majority of the miracle completed by
the 14th of Adar?
ANSWER:
Perhaps the most common answer to this question is that with Shushan Purim
we give special Kavod to the cities of Eretz Yisrael, as Shushan Purim is
celebrated in cities walled from the time of Yehoshua ben Nun--which
included many cities in Eretz Yisrael. The Chasam Sofer, however, explains
that since people are so busy with the Mitzvos of the day, there may not be
as much Torah learning on Purim as there is on other days. Accordingly,
Purim is ‘split’ into two days--so that there will be Torah studied in one
place, when it is not studied in another!
As
we move through Purim Day, we should remind ourselves of the words of the
Arizal (found in the Pri Eitz Chaim) that EVERY Purim the Neis of
Mordechai and Esther is re-aroused. What a day--what an experience!
MAY
WE GO FROM REDEMPTION TO REDEMPTION!
==============================
12 Adar II
DO YOU
HAVE FRIENDS WHO ARE LEFTIES?:
By the
following link
http://tinyurl.com/zn46yts
we provide a summary of the Halachos of Lefties which had recently been
listed over several Bulletins. Please feel free to share the link with
others!
----------------------------------------------------
BE A PART OF TWO HOURS OF LEARNING ON PURIM NIGHT--BY BOCHURIM!
We received the following important correspondence:
We
would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who have already
come forward and donated to this year’s “Sponsor a Bochur’s Learning
on Purim Night campaign. May the learning on Purim be a meilitz yosher
for your family and may Hashem grant you in this merit to answer all
your personal wishes and Moshiach should come swiftly in our days. We have
been inundated with Bochurim who have been calling to have a beautiful and
meaningful simchas Purim by learning in beis midrash for two hours
on Purim night! We are not able to say no to any bochur who is
looking to learn on Purim. We are still in need of funds to cover the
overwhelming response from bochurim and kollel yungerleit who all would like
to join the Kol Torah. Please help us at this crucial time for Klal Yisrael
with our Bochurim being mekadesh Shem Shomayim and opening up the gates of
Bracha for the world in general and Klal Yisrael in particular! Do not let
this golden opportunity to support this Kiddush Hashem slip through your
fingers. PLEASE help to support this beautiful
program and sponsor a bochur learning Purim night, by clicking on the
following link:
https://www.duvys.com/simple/purimlearning
----------------------------------------------------
THOUGHTS IN PREPARATION FOR TA’ANIS ESTHER:
1.
There is a special inyan to recite Tehillim Chapter 22 on Ta’anis Esther and
Purim, for this is the Kepitel recited by Esther herself upon entering
Achashveirosh’s throne room uninvited (See Kav HaYashar 97). The
Kav HaYashar adds that when we gather on Ta’anis Esther in Shul to daven,
we are considered to be in the “Chatzar HaMelech”--and “Bevadai”,
surely through our Selichos and Tefillos we arouse Mordechai HaTzaddik and
Esther HaMalka--who will “certainly join” in our Tefillos. Accordingly, he
writes, that Ta’anis Esther is a day which is “MESUGAL ME’OD” for our
tefillos to be accepted in the zechus of Mordechai V’Esther. “One who needs
mercy from Hashem should recite Tehillim Chapter 22, and then pour his heart
out to Hashem for the mercy he needs--especially mentioning the Zechus of
Mordechai and Esther in whose Zechus the Sha’arei Rachamim should be opened
and his Tefillos should be accepted.
Additional Note One: The Luach Davar B’Ito writes that we should
recite Chapter 22 at Mincha on Ta’anis Esther--for Mincha is an Eis
Ratzon.
Additional Note Two: The G’ra holds that this Chapter is actually the Shir
Shel Yom for Purim itself.
2. In
the past, a flyer was distributed with the bracha of Rebbetzin Kanievsky,
a’h, urged women on Ta’anis Esther to recite Tehillim Chapters 28,
32, 79, 92, and 22, followed by Acheinu Kol Bais Yisrael. Hakhel Note:
The Chasam Sofer writes that the Megillah especially teaches that Mordechai
expressed a “Tze’akah Gedolah U’Marah” when he heard the tragic news.
In the end, however, his pleas and the pleas of his people turned the decree
180 degrees. This should teach us that whatever the situation, Hashem is in
control, and the Tze’akah Marah can unbelievably change to
Tzahalah V’Simcha!
3.
The Yesod V’Shoresh HaAvodah (Sha’ar 12: Perek 3) writes that one
should increase his Torah study on Ta’anis Esther…perhaps you can learn
just a little more in honor of this great day?
4.
When contributing Machatzis HaShekel on Ta’anis Esther, one should
say “Zecher L’Machatzis HaShekel”--this is the remembrance of
the Machatzis HaShekel, so as not to leave the impression that this is an
actual contribution to the Bais HaMikdash, which was given at this time of
year. (Luach Eretz Yisrael of Rav Tukchinsky Z’tl). The Luach
Davar B’Ito suggests that the Machatzis HaShekel be given after Mincha.
5. The
Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 686, seif katan 2) writes that
the fast commemorates the fasting of the Jews as they went to battle their
enemies on the 13th day of Adar, for we can be sure that on a day
of war the Jews fasted--knowing that their victory was completely in
Hashem’s hands. [How telling--the difference is between a Jewish army and
the army of akum!] The Mishna Berurah then continues about Ta’anis
Esther: “It is called Ta’anis Esther so that we remember that Hashem
Yisborach sees and listens to each person in his time of trouble when he
fasts and returns to Hashem with all of his heart, as was done at that
time.” We must not lose sight of the fact that Teshuva is a tremendously
important part of the day.
6.
HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, explains that an intrinsic part of Purim is,
as the Megillah (9:31) records, the Divrei Tzomos VeZa’akasam--our
fasts and our cries to Hashem. In fact, HaRav Friedlander writes, that
Mordechai understood that the Jews would be saved--and knew that their
salvation would come about through their gathering together for Tefillah.
Esther appears to have come to this same conclusion independently, as she
responded to Mordechai: “Leich Kenos…Vetzumu Alai” (Esther 4:16).
The resulting yeshuos contained in the Megillah proved Mordechai and
Esther correct. HaRav Friedlander teaches that every year this very same
power is re-instilled at the very same time--and this is why the Anshei
Knesses HaGedolah directed us to engage in tzom and tefillah as well--so
that we too can attain the Yeshuos that we need--and B’EH the Geulah
Sheleimah!
----------------------------------------------------
PESAKIM OF HARAV SHMUEL KAMENETSKY, SHLITA:
We continue to present below many Pesakim of HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky, Shlita,
relating to Purim from the expanded version of Kovetz Halachos for
Purim, by his close Talmid, Rabbi Doniel Kleinman, Shlita. As always, one
should consult with his own Rav or Posek regarding his specific facts and
circumstances:
PART 2
A.
Each time one gives Mishloach Manos, he fulfills the Mitzvah of Mishloach
Manos. The two items of Mishloach Manos must be of two different
species--so that one would not fulfill the Mitzvah by giving the top and the
bottom of a piece of chicken, a red and green apple, or white wine and red
wine--even though they may have different tastes. A salad, even if it
contains several different vegetables, is considered one portion.
B.
Mishloach Manos should be of a Shiur which one usually honors a guest with
in his home. The food or drinks supplied should be a davar chashuv.
Even though if one or a few chips or candies, for instance, it would not be
a davar chashuv--if one gives an entire bag or box, the individual
items collectively, would be considered a davar chashuv. The item
being sent should be based upon the recipient--so one who is sending to a
minor could give cake and candies, and these would be chashuv in his
eyes. Water or seltzer would not be considered chashuv, but other
drinks could be. Spices and condiments are not considered valid manos--for
they are not eaten by themselves, but only used to aid other foods. Ketchup
and mustard would likewise not be a valid item for Mishloach Manos. One can
send an item to his friend who may not be able to eat it because he is
allergic, as other members of his family could eat it in his stead. The
items sent must be ready-to-eat, and therefore could not consist of raw fish
or meat, a coffee container, or tea bags, all of which require further
preparation. Both portions of the Mishloach Manos must be delivered at the
same time, and cannot be delivered one after the other.
C. If
one delivers Mishloach Manos to another who is not home and leaves it by the
door and does not tell him--and the recipient returns home after Purim--he
is not Yotzei the Mitzvah of Mishloach Manos with that person. However, if
a person sends Mishloach Manos before Purim and it arrives on Purim, he is
Yotzei the Mitzvah. Similarly, if one leaves Mishloach Manos at his
friend’s door Purim night and his friend discovers it in the morning, one is
Yotzei Mishloach Manos.
D. If
one gives Mishloach Manos to a mumar who is Mechalel Shabbos, he has
nevertheless fulfilled the Mitzvah. If an adult sends Mishloach Manos to a
minor--he has nevertheless fulfilled the Mitzvah.
E. It
is a Machlokes HaPoskim [as noted in an earlier Bulletin] whether a person
who purchases a utensil in order to give it to his friend as a present is
considered as if he ‘is doing business’ with the utensil, in which case it
would not require tevilah while in his possession. Indeed, according
to the Taz, the giver cannot tovel the item--the
tevilah does not help--and the bracha is a bracha levatalah, for the
recipient must tovel the item. HaRav Kamenetsky, however, holds that
when one buys an object with the intent of giving it to his friend, it is
considered as if he is buying it for himself, and it is considered his--it
is just that he intends in the future to give it to his friend.
Accordingly, he would be able to tovel the utensil, and give it to
his friend. Hakhel Note: Based upon this Machlokes HaPoskim, one should
consult with his Rav or Posek as to the proper method for delivering
Mishloach Manos--when giving a utensil with it.
F.
Once a child has reached a basic level of understanding, then a boy should
not be dressed as a girl, nor a girl as a boy.
G. As
brought in the Rema to Shulchan Aruch, one should learn Torah immediately
prior to the Purim Seudah, since the Pasuk states “LaYehudim Haysa Orah
V’Simcha”--the light of Torah must precede the Simcha of the meal
because it brings a person to true Simcha. It is not sufficient for a
person to rely on his study of Torah in the morning [such as at Yeshivas
Mordechai HaTzaddik!].
H.
Women are equally as obligated in the Seuda as men. Women should also drink
a little bit (a revi’is or less) of wine, and can also be Yotzei with grape
juice instead of wine. However, there is no obligation for children under
Bar/Bas Mitzvah to drink even grape juice. It is, in all events, forbidden
for anyone to become drunk. Hakhel Note: HaRav Kamenetsky’s lesson is
clear--our Seudah should be graced only by the Yetzer Hatov and the Torah
atmosphere that Mordechai HaTzadik and Esther HaMalka were ready to give
their lives for--and would be so proud of!
Additional Note: As Mishloach Manos time draws nearer and nearer, we are
reminded not to forget the Bain Odom LaMakom when beautifully performing
this great Mitzvah of Bain Odom LeChaveiro. This means that especially
meaningful brachos should be made upon the Manos received. One point: If
you received a small cookie and a large, but sliced piece of cake, and you
intend to eat both, which item would you make the Borei Minei Mezonos on?
The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 168:1) rules that it is more chashuv to make
a bracha on a shalem--on a whole, uncut item even if it is smaller--than to
make a bracha on a non-whole item--even if it larger. One can also deduce
the obvious mussar lessons from this as well!
----------------------------------------------------
A
PURIM MOMENT--EXPANDED!
A: Two
Notes on Matanos L’Evyonim:
1. The Sefer Halichos Shlomo, which contains the rulings of
HaRav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, Zt’l, writes that, according to HaRav Auerbach
the definition of an “Evyon” for purposes of Purim is someone who does not
have money “l’tzrochim hahechreichim l’farnes baiso--the funds which
are necessary to provide for the necessities of one’s family.”
2. In the Sefer Maaseh Rav, HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, was
asked whether it was preferable not to give an Evyon directly on Purim just
as, in Hilchos Tzedaka, it is preferable not to give an Evyon directly.
HaRav Kanievsky responded that here “lo mishane”--it does not make a
difference and that either way is proper.
B. We
present the following synopsis of a Shiur given by HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon,
Shlita (R’ Mattisyahu Chaim Ben Ettel) as a specific zechus for his
Refuah Shleimah:
We are
living in a tumultuous, confused world. One leader after another had been
deposed or is abdicating. The world order is in upheaval. Iran, as Haman,
is threatening c’v Lehashmid Laharog.... One talks about Moshiach
when times are dangerous--and it is not empty talk. Ikvasa D’Mashicha
means the footsteps of Moshiach. As a person walks closer to you his
footsteps become more audible. The footsteps are definitely louder now than
they were before; the world’s economy is asunder, people’s feeling of
security is extremely low, governments are weak, and K’lal Yisrael is
attacked physically and verbally by our enemies. In a letter from HaRav
Elchonon Wasserman, Z’tl, to HaRav Shimon Schwab, Z’tl, Rav Elchonon
cautions that although the footsteps may be heard louder and louder, we will
not know when the Moshiach arrives until he actually does so. What we
can do is to be Mechake Lo--not only believe that he will come--but
also await him. The Ba’alei Mussar explain it with the following test:
If our Emunah is strong, we should view the Moshiach’s coming as a situation
similar to a person who loses a check for $1,000,000 in a room filled with
cancelled checks. If one is 100% certain that the check is there, he will
not give up looking, for he knows that all of his searching will
bring him closer to his desired goal. So too, with Moshiach--if we are
certain of his coming, then we know that time only brings us closer!
Because doing Teshuva after Moshiach comes will not be as effective,
the time to do Teshuva, as part of our anticipation is now. The day
could be any day--so one must do what he has to today. Rather than be
nervous, upset and depressed--with the more fear that one may have should
come the realization that the way out is Moshiach--and the more we prepare,
the more we will benefit!
----------------------------------------------------
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS IN PREPARATION FOR PURIM:
1.
QUESTION: What should one be sure to do at the Purim Seudah?
ANSWER:
The Nehorah Shaleim writes that one should read the Parasha of
Vayavo Amaleik (Shemos 17:8-16), and the Parasha three times of
Zachor Eis Asher Lecha Amaleik. He should also have candles lit as on
Shabbos, and speak of the Nisim that occurred.
2.
QUESTION: The Navi (Yeshaya 43:18) writes that “Ahl Tizkeru Rishonos--once
the great Geulah comes, we will no longer remember the Mo’adim that took
place celebrating Yetziyas Mitzrayim.” Yet, Chazal teach that we will still
celebrate Purim--how was the Nes of Purim greater than all of the Nissim of
Yetziyas Mitzrayim?
ANSWER:
In Mitzrayim we were not threatened with immediate annihilation of
all--men, women and children, while Haman’s decree was from young told old,
men and women--covering our entire people. It is thus the salvation of our
entire people--oh how we must celebrate--and how we will--forever!
3.
QUESTION: Why do the Jews who live in Spain and Africa have to celebrate
Purim--if they were not under the rulership of Achashveirosh?
ANSWER:
The Chida writes that on Purim every year great lights shine through the
entire world--just as those that were revealed in the times of Mordechai
and Esther, as the Pasuk says: “LaYehudim Haysah Orah V’Simcha”.
4.
QUESTION: Esther’s name is mentioned three times in the Megillah as
Esther Bas Avichayil. Why is her full name mentioned three times?
ANSWER:
We do not know--sometimes that is also an answer! If you know of an answer,
please let us know!
5.
QUESTION: What is the source for the concept of drinking on Purim to
the point of not knowing the difference between ‘Arur Haman and Baruch
Mordechai’?
ANSWER:
The source is easy--Megillah 7B--but why?! Once again, we look forward to
your response!
==============================
11 Adar II
PURIM
SAFETY! We provide by the following link essential advice to us all
from Hatzolah and the Torah Safety Commission. Please spread the word! http://tinyurl.com/cggccu
------------------------------------------------------------
WHAT
AN OUTSTANDING KIMU V’KIBLU KABBALAH FOR PURIM--MISHNA YOMIS!
We
are on the portal of an incredible opportunity--Mishna Yomis is beginning a
new cycle, beginning on Wednesday, March 30th--one need only learn two
Mishnayos a day, and will complete Mishnayos in under six years! By the
following link, we provide a calendar for this wonderful program. As we all
know--Mishna and Neshama have the same letters, and the study on a steady,
consistent basis of a concise amount will certainly provide great benefits
to the Neshama. You can dedicate you study on behalf of yourself, whomever
you would like--or for the sake of the Geulah Sheleimah!
This
is the Mishna Yomis calendar: http://tinyurl.com/zk7lyph
For further information, and for additional materials available, we refer
you to the following website
http://www.mishnahyomit.com
-------------------------------------------
QUESTIONS OF THE DAY--ARE YOU GETTING READY FOR PURIM?:
A.
Give two examples in the Megillah where Hashem provided for the Refuah
before the Makkah.
B.
Esther told Achashveirosh that the decrees against the Jewish people were
Lehashmid LeHarog U’Le’abeid. This means that we were saved from
three different decrees--what were they?
C.
There is a dispute among Tanaim as to where the Megillah needs to be
read from. According to Rebbi Yehuda--from where must we begin to
read? Hint: Note Rebbi Yehuda’s name.
D.
The Megillah contains the phrase Rochvei HaRechesh (Esther
8:10)--what does the word HaRachesh mean?
E. It
is a Minhag Yisrael to eat hamantaschen. Why--did Haman have bizarre
ears? a strange wallet? weird pockets? What is the basis of the Minhag?
F.
The Megillah (Esther 7:8) teaches that the last thing that Achashveirosh
saw before ordering Haman executed was the tree that Haman intended to hang
Mordechai on. Chazal, in fact, teach that the allusion to Haman in the Torah
is from the Pasuk: “HaMin HaEitz Asher Tzivisicha Levilti Achol Mimenu
Achalta.” (Bereishis 3:11) What is the meaning of the association
of Haman with trees?
--------------------------------------------
THE
ELEVENTH!
Today is the 11th day of Adar--the first day mentioned in Mesechta Megillah
(2A) that the Megillah could be read under certain circumstances. Do you
feel greater Simcha coming on? If not…start working on it!
HAKHEL
NOTE: The Luach Davar B’Ito brings from Rebbi Yitzchak MiVorka, Z’tl,
that the three days before Purim correspond to the three days before Shavuos--the
Sheloshes Yemei Hagbalah--and the more that a person purifies himself
to receive the Torah of Purim--Kiymu V’Kiblu--the more he will
succeed. Let’s get to work!
--------------------------------------------
A
PURIM MOMENT--EXPANDED!
1.
The essence of Purim is the realization that “Ain Od Milevado.” This
means that everything that preceded this world’s existence, that everything
that currently exists, and that everything that will exist forever and ever
is Hashem and His Will. Indeed, the name of the holiday Purim, indicates
that something as ‘by chance’ as a lottery is under the sole and complete
jurisdiction of Hashem.
2.
The Chofetz Chaim, Z’tl, writes in a published letter (Michtevei Chofetz
Chaim 20): “We all know very clearly that Hashem can bring the Geulah
BeChol Regah V’Regah--at any moment--as in the times of Mordechai and
Esther the complete Geulah happened overnight. This is actually an explicit
Posuk recorded in the last Navi, Malachi: ‘Ki Pisom Yavoh El Heichalo--for
He will suddenly come to His Sanctuary.’ We have to be ready always!”
Hakhel Note: Teshuva Bechol Yom--for each and every one of
us!
3. As
noted above, an essential part of Purim Day is Kiymu V’Kiblu. This
does not only refer to all of Klal Yisrael’s voluntary acceptance of the
Torah--but to each individual’s rededication to Torah as well. Hakhel Note:
We will all be pressured for time over the next month, with many demands and
obligations upon us. The Chofetz Chaim teaches that when one keeps his set
time for study without fail, and in the case of a ‘Dochak Gadol’
makes up his studies within the day, then a “Kedusha Gedolah Venora’ah--a
great and awesome Kedusha rests on him every single time he learns in this
way. Let us not forget this Kedusha Gedolah Venora’ah every
time that we keep our set time for learning. We suggest that our Kiymu
V’Kiblu this Purim involve a special effort in this regard. Remember
the words of the Chofetz Chaim--Kedusha Gedolah Venora’ah--on
you!
4. As mentioned in the past,
based
upon the teaching of the Mirrer Mashgiach, HaRav Yeruchem Levovitz, Z’tl, on
Purim, one should endeavor to give Mishloach Manos not only to his relative,
his best friend or his neighbor, but also to someone whom you are a little
bit “on the outs” with, or with whom you do not speak enough, or with whom
you have a somewhat cool relationship for various reasons, or for a
particular reason, or for no reason at all. Now--is the time to think about
who this person or those people will be…there is no better time to break the
ice--or even to warm the cool water--by knocking on someone’s door
unsolicited with a smile and a colorful Mishloach Manos. What better way
could there be to dispel the claims of Haman HaRasha that we are “a
dispersed and separated people”? Anyone who dislikes coolness, discord or
dispute between two groups or even within one group of our people should
also move to eliminate it from within himself and his family, as well.
So…get ready, practice and rehearse--knock on that door…and “PURIM SAMEACH”-”A
FREILICHIN PURIM”-”HAPPY PURIM”!
5.
We
provide by the following link--http://tinyurl.com/yjsytzl
a flyer relating to The Power of Purim that has been distributed for many
years. Please feel free to distribute and redistribute!
In a
very similar vein, by the following link--http://tinyurl.com/ysf6m7
you will find an important message distributed by the Chofetz Chaim Heritage
Foundation. Hakhel Note: Dovid HaMelech teaches us in Hallel (Tehillim 116:1
et. al.) “Ahavti Ki Yishma Hashem Es Kol Tachanunai…Dalosi Veli
Yehoshia--I love Him, for Hashem hears my voice, my supplications…I was
brought low, but He saved me.” Chazal teach that even when we are poor in
Mitzvos, Hashem saves us through our Tefillos--let us activate our Koach
HaTefillah on Purim--and urge others to do so as well!
Additional Note: It is fascinating to recall that Rav Amram Gaon writes
that the Minhag in the two main Yeshivos during the time of the Geonim, Sura
and Pumbedisa, was to actually recite Tachanun on Purim--”for it is a day of
miracles, and upon which we were redeemed, and so we must ask for mercy that
we will be redeemed in the end in the same way that we were initially
redeemed.” As we will soon enter the period between the Geulah of Purim and
the Geulah of Mitzrayim, a time in which for the next two weeks we will all
be reciting Tachanun and/or other prayers for Geulah, we should be very
mindful to recite them with strong and special Kavannah because, without
mincing words, it is, simply stated, a time of Geulah. Everyone should try
and keep a daily record, or at least a real mental note, of the special and
sincere prayers he has made for the Geulah during this auspicious period.
--------------------------------------------
PESAKIM OF HARAV SHMUEL KAMENETSKY, SHLITA:
We once again present below many Pesakim of HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky, Shlita,
relating to Purim from the expanded version of Kovetz Halachos for
Purim, by his close Talmid, Rabbi Doniel Kleinman, Shlita. As always, one
should consult with his own Rav or Posek regarding his specific facts and
circumstances:
PART 1
A.
Even if one is exempt from fasting because of illness, he should minimize
the amount of food and drink that he consumes on the Ta’anis. A pregnant
woman and a nursing woman may consume regular amounts, as necessary.
B. If
one intends to rise early on Ta’anis Esther and eat before Alos Hashachar,
he must start his Seudah at least a half hour before Alos, although it is
permissible to eat less than a Kebeitzah within the half hour period.
C.
Before one touches his Megillah, he should wash his hands (see Shulchan
Aruch Orach Chaim 147:1).
D.
When Chazal teach that a person who does melacha on Purim will not see a
siman bracha from it, this does not refer to permissible melacha--such as a
dovor ho’avad (matters relating to preventing a financial loss) and
melacha for simcha. Additionally, one is permitted to cut his hair and
nails and do laundry.
E. It
is best if women go to Shul to hear the Megillah read BeTzibbur. If one has
a wife, a son who has reached the age of Chinuch, and a baby in the
house--who should go to Shul--his wife, or the older child? It would appear
better for the wife to stay home (and hopefully hear the Megillah together
with ten women later) and that he should bring his son to Shul to fulfill
the Mitzvah of Chinuch (BeRov Am).
F. If
someone knows that he will not be able to hear every word in Shul, and will
have to make up the words he does not hear from a Chumash (which is only
Bedi’eved)--it is better to make a smaller Minyan in one’s home and be
yotzeh LeChatchila by hearing every word from a Megillah. However, if one
will be forced to read or hear the Megillah without a Minyan, it is better
to go to Shul and make up the words from one’s Chumash when necessary.
G. If
a person was unable to hear the Megillah at night, he cannot make it up by
hearing the Megillah two times during the day. If one person didn’t hear
the Megillah, and finds nine people who agree to listen again even though
they were already yotzeh, it is still called Megillah B’Tzibbur, which is
Pirsumei Nissah!
H. If
a person senses that he lost his focus on the Megillah, he should read from
his Chumash from the place where he lost his focus until he catches up to
the Ba’al Kriyah. This holds true for both men and women. It is for this
reason that it is best to have one’s own Kosher Megillah, and to lein the
Megillah together with the Chazan. Indeed, if one is uncertain whether he
missed one word of the Megillah (either at night or during the day), he must
hear the entire Megillah reading again.
I. One
does not fulfill his Seudas Purim with a Seudah that he eats on Leil Purim.
Nevertheless, at night, one should have candles burning, the table set, eat
a meal with bread, although he does not need to eat meat. One should also
drink a little wine, but there is no Mitzvah at all at night to drink beyond
that.
J. One
can be Yotzei the Mitzvah of Matanos L’Evyonim with a check even if it is
postdated, because one can use the check in payment or otherwise negotiate
it to someone else.
K. In
a footnote, Rabbi Kleinman brings from the Yesod V’Shoresh HaAvodah
that one who gives freely on Purim makes ‘Tekunim Gedolim BeOlamos
HaElyonim HaKedoshim’. One fulfills Matanos L’Evyonim if he gives
Tzedaka to a Katan and if he gives Tzedaka anonymously.
L. A
woman can be Yotzei her Matanos L’Evyonim through her husband’s giving, but
it is better for her husband to tell her that he is giving on her behalf.
--------------------------------------------
LEARNING FROM THE GEMATRIA OF MORDECHAI HAYEHUDI:
We
once again provide the following exceptional excerpt from “The Light of
the Ben Ish Chai on Megillat Esther” “--the commentary of the Ben Ish
Chai on the Megillah, as translated by Rabbi Yerachmiel Bratt, Shlita (as
you give your Mishloach Manos with one hand, perhaps you can give this
wonderful sefer to your friend with the other!): “The Chida in the name of
Rav Germiza stated that the gematria of the expression Mordechai HaYehudi (Mordechai
the Jew) equals the name of Hashem as Shakai (shin dalet and yud; 314). The
name Shakai indicates that Hashem controls all and that He can completely up
heave the powers of the spheres of the universe. As a true Amaleki, after
Haman told his family of his honor and fortune, he stated that all was
valueless to him when he saw Mordechai HaYehudi. Haman specifically
referred to Mordechai as Mordechai HaYehudi because he was really referring
to Hashem’s control over the balance of power in the universe. In one fell
swoop, Hashem could shift power from Haman to Mordechai. Indeed, Zeresh and
Haman’s advisors urged Haman to take swift action before the balance of
power in the universe shifted in favor of Mordechai. Their human thoughts
fell short and unaccomplished. Shortly thereafter, Mordechai HaYehudi
ascended to power while Haman and his sons were overthrown and hanged....”
Hakhel
Note: Is it no small wonder, then, that this name of Hashem--Shakai--is
placed upon our Mezuzos to remind us Who is in control of all as we come and
go!
==============================
8 Adar II
A PURIM MOMENT:
One of the most popular songs on Purim is Venahafoch Hu--based upon
the Megillah’s actual words. Hashem not only keeps the natural order going,
and not only does the unexpected--but He also will totally reverse and upend
that which was or is expected to happen. Enemies at the top become enemies
at the bottom, those who want to hang get hung, those who bring Jews to
tears--bring Jews to laughter. As we look at the plans and plotting of the
nations of the world--from those who want to shoot a rocket a distance of
2,000 miles for mass destruction purposes, to those who wish to split away
Yerushalayim from us--we know that with our Teshuvah, our Tefillah, our
Mitzvos and Ma’asim Tovim--we too can see with our own eyes the
Venahafoch Hu of Lyehudim Haysa Ora V’Simcha V’Sasson Vikar. So,
when we sing Venahafoch Hu between now and Purim--let us have a
Hirhur Teshuvah--and think of what we need to do to make it happen!
------------------------------------------------------------
THE HALACHOS OF LEFTIES:
B’EH, we conclude our series on special Halachos for left-handed people,
excerpted from the Sefer Yad Eliezer: A collection of various Halachos,
Mitzvos and minhagim pertinent to left-handers, by Rabbi Paysach J.
Krohn, Shlita. As always, one should consult with his Rav or Posek regarding
his personal circumstances:
PART 5
1. Vidui. Based on the Siddur Arizal, it is our Minhag to tap the
right first firmly against the heart when reciting Vidui, and when reciting
Ahl Cheit on Yom Kippur. HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, writes that both
right-handers and left-handers do the same.
2. Chasunah. The Kallah stands to the right of the Chosson during the
Chupah. This is based on the Pasuk (Nitzvah Sheigal Limincha) in
Tehillim (45:12). There is accordingly no difference if the Chosson or
Kallah is a right or left-hander.
3. Havdala. The Rema writes that during Havdala one should look at
the nails of his right hand as he holds the cup of wine in his left hand (Shulchan
Aruch Orach Chaim 298:3). HaRav Chaim Kanievsky teaches that Ahl Pi Kabbalah
both right and left-handers look at the nails of the right hand.
------------------------------------------------------------
WE
CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
1.
When Haman complained about the Jewish People to Achashveirosh, Chazal say
he said “They spend their years with statements like ‘Shabbos HaYom,
Pesach HaYom’, and are thereby not loyal to the king.” The Chasam Sofer
explains that Haman meant to indicate with these words that the Jewish
people were so attached and enamored to their past and to their ways, and so
dedicated to Hashem, that every Shabbos they felt as if it was truly ‘Shabbos
HaYom’--the first Shabbos ever, and that every Pesach was ‘Pesach
HaYom’--that this was the first Pesach ever. They would, accordingly,
never be loyal subjects for they had their own set of priorities. In honor
of his marvelous ‘accusation’ let us truly feel the excitement of the ‘Shabbos
HaYom’ on Shabbos!
2.
What does the phrase of “Maharu Es Haman La’asos Es Dvar Esther” in
the Zemiros of Shimru Shabsosai have to do with Shabbos? The Eitz
Yosef (in the Siddur Otzar HeTefillos) writes that Shabbos is
referred to as ‘Esther’ in the Zohar and Tikkunim--so that this phrase in
the Zemiros in actuality is referring to us preparing the Shabbos meals with
alacrity in honor of Shabbos. The nexus between Shabbos and Esther deserves
further reflection. On a simple level, both Esther and Shabbos represent
our recognition and awareness of Hashem’s presence in the ‘hidden’ and
natural events of every day of our existence. It is on Purim and on Shabbos
especially that we have a greater Hargasha, a greater experiential
sense, of this feeling. Your additional reflections would be very much
appreciated.
3.
Fascinatingly, Chazal (Megillah 23A) teach that the seven aliyos we have on
Shabbos correspond to the shiva ro’eh pnei hamelech. Rashi (ibid.)
cites the Pasuk in the Megillah for this: “Shivas Sarei Paras U’Madai”
(Esther 1: 14 ). Every Shabbos--we are reminded of the Purim miracle!
4. In
preparation for the Mitzvah of reading Parashas Zachor tomorrow, we provide
the following important annual reminders:
A. The
opportunity to read Parashas Zachor this Shabbos is of such great
significance that, according to the Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach
Chaim 685, seif katan 16), if one can only come to hear either Parashas
Zachor or the reading of the Megillah, one should go to hear Parashas Zachor.
B. There is a Mitzvas Aseh, a positive Torah commandment, to
“always remember the wicked deeds of the people of Amalek and their attack
upon us, to arouse our hatred of them”--as they were the first to attack us
without fear after the nations quaked and trembled over us (as described in
Oz Yoshir, the Song of the Sea). See Rambam Hilchos Melachim 5:5, S’mag
Mitzvas Aseh 115, Chayei Odom 151:2.
C. The
Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 603) writes that one of the purposes of this
Mitzvah is for us to recognize that one who causes pain to K’lal Yisrael is
despised by Hashem, and according to the level of enmity against K’lal
Yisrael is their level of destruction. Since Amalek’s hatred of us was
greater than that of all other nations, they are to be completely
obliterated. Indeed, the Ramban (end of Parashas Ki Setzeh) writes that we
should “teach our children and future generations--so did the rasha
to us, and that is why we have been commanded to erase his name.”
D. There is a Mitzvas Lo Sa’aseh, a Torah prohibition,
of “Lo Tishkach”--not to forget the deeds of Amalek. This means that
we should not forget to despise them despite the passage of time, and to
remember that Hashem saved us from them, and that we will eventually avenge
their deeds and eradicate them. See S’mak 53 and Sefer Yereim 189.
E. One
should review the words of Parashas Zachor (with Rashi and/or other
meforshim) before the laining. We suggest reviewing it at the Leil Shabbos
Seudah in order that you and/or others are prepared for the laining, since
the Mitzvah is to arouse within us both a strong reaction to their
despicable deeds, and our obligation to eradicate them. Indeed, the Maharam
Shick writes that we do not make a special bracha on this Mitzvah because we
do not make a bracha on hashchosa--acts of destruction.
F. The
Rambam (Hilchos Melachim 6:4) writes that an Amaleiki who makes peace with
K’lal Yisrael and accepts the seven Mitzvos B’nei Noach is not to be hurt.
In fact, some learn that the reason that the descendants of Haman “learned
Torah in Bnei Brak” (Gittin 57B) is because they were the descendants of
those sons of Haman who did not fight against K’lal Yisrael (Sefer Adar
U’Purim p. 68)
G. The
Mitzvah of Mechias Amalek, eradicating the Sonei Hashem and Sonei Yisrael--those
pure haters of Hashem and His people--began with Moshe Rabbeinu and Yehoshua,
continued in the times of Shaul HaMelech, Dovid HaMelech and in the times of
Purim, and we will be Zoche to complete it in the times of Moshiach (S’mag-Mitzvas
Lo Sa’aseh 226). As these are days of Nissim and Geulah--miracles and
redemption, may we be Zoche to do all the Mitzvos of Hashem with Moshiach
leading and teaching us, speedily in our days.
H. For
further detail see Sefer Adar U’Purim by HaRav Yoel Schwartz,
Shlita, upon which this note is based. For the enlightening words of the
Ramban on the relationship between the war against Amalek and the end of our
current Golus Edom , see the Ramban in Shemos 17:9.
------------------------------------------------------------
THE
PARASHA AND PURIM:
The Parasha begins (Vayikra 1:2) with the words “Adam
Ki Yakriv Mikem Korban Lashem…Takrivu Es Korbanchem”.
HaRav Meir Schuck, Z’tl, notes that the Pasuk starts in the singular (Adam)
and ends in the plural (Takrivu), and explains that this comes to
teach us that when one wants to get closer to Hashem, he should include the
rest of K’lal Yisrael in his avodah. One’s goal should be to have everyone
join together in Avodas Hashem--not to stand apart, but to be part of a
united community--all serving the Ribono Shel Olam.
This lesson is especially true, HaRav Schuck continues, with respect to
Tefilah. Our daily Tefilos are said in the plural. Our personal requests for
health, wealth, and forgiveness include everybody in the Tefilah.
When we daven for our elevation and growth in Avodas Hashem we also ask for
our united growth. May we all see the return of the Avodah in the Beis
HaMikdash--not just me, but everyone. We daven that we should all
have the good in life.
HaRav Schuck uses this fundamental idea in analyzing the difference between
Kayin’s Karbon and Hevel’s Karbon. Hashem accepted Hevel’s Karbon and He did
not accept Kayin’s Karbon. Many Meforshim have asked why, and various
answers are given. HaRav Schuck provides a beautiful p’shat. With regard to
Hevel, the Pasuk says “V’Hevel Hevei Gam Hu”. The word Gam
indicates that when Hevel brought the Korban his intent was “Gam Hu”--that
he is bringing the Korban not only for himself, but with others in mind as
well. He wanted to thank Hashem together with everyone--and it was with this
intention that Hashem found his Korban acceptable.
The same idea, concludes HaRav Schuck, is seen in the story of Purim.
Esther says to Mordechai: “Lech Kenos Es Kol HaYehudim”--get everyone
together and that way our prayers will be heard. Haman Harasha said the Jews
are ‘Mefuzar U’Meforad’--spread apart and not united. His intention
was to tell Achashveirosh that the Jews will not be protected by their G-d
because they are not united. He somehow sensed that the only way the Jews
can be helped by Hashem, is if they are united. To counter this, Esther
showed the world (and maybe the Jews themselves) that we are all united and
therefore deserve Hashem Yisborach’s help!
Hakhel
Note: If there is not something specific that you are doing in order to
unite K’lal Yisrael--then, let your Tefillos resound on our behalf!
------------------------------------------------------------
THE KARBONOS AND YOUR AVODAH TODAY:
The
Shulchan Aruch itself
(Orach
Chayim 98:4) lists the ways in which our daily Tefilah is compared to
bringing Karbanos in the Beis HaMikdash. As the Shulchan Aruch rules, “Tefilah
is in place of a Korbon and therefore one must be careful that it is like a
Korbon:
·
In Kavannah, because improper thought invalidates a Korbon;
·
By standing when it is recited, as the Avodah was done standing;
·
In a certain place, as each Korbon had a specific place for shechita and
Matan Dam;
·
With nothing interrupting between him and the wall, as with a Korbon where a
Chatzizah could be Posul [Hakhel Note: one may speak to his Rav regarding
this point, if his seat in Shul is not near the wall]; and
·
It is befitting that a person has nice, special clothes, just as there were
special Bigdei Kehunah for the Avodah.” Note : At the very least,
one should not enter to daven in the same attire as if he were about to
repair something around the house!
Hakhel
Note: As we have noted in the past, it is well known that deep knee
bends are a recommended method to improve one’s physical flexibility.
Chazal, however, never prescribed this exercise, especially during davening.
When we bend our knees and bow our heads in Shemone Esrei, it is not
intended as a physical exercise, but as a mental exercise. As we
bow, the sefer Shaarei Orah (p. 39) writes, we should feel a pure and
complete submission or servitude to HaKodosh Boruch Hu. This feeling of
submission can be assisted by thinking about a specific benefit which
HaKodosh Boruch Hu has bestowed upon you, which no one else can provide.
------------------------------------------------------------
THE HALACHOS OF SECRETS: The
following exceptional excerpt from Love Your Neighbor (by Rabbi Zelig
Pliskin, Shlita), is based upon tomorrow’s Parasha, and is absolutely
imperative in our everyday life.
“The Parasha actually begins “VaYikra El Moshe…”--and He [Hashem]
called to Moshe, and [Hashem] spoke to him from the Ohel Moed saying (Vayikra
1:1). The Gemara (Yoma 4B) states from the last word “saying” which denotes
“say to others”, we learn that a person has no right to repeat what someone
tells him, unless given explicit permission to do so. Following are basic
laws pertaining to secrets:
1. If someone tells you private information about his business or any
personal matter, you are forbidden to disclose it to others. Your doing so
could cause the person who confided in you financial loss, embarrassment, or
other damage. Even if the speaker did not request that the matter remain
secret, you are not allowed to repeat it. It is self-evident that the
speaker does not want such information to be divulged. However, if the
person related information concerning himself in the presence of three or
more people and did not request secrecy, you are permitted to relate it to
others. Since the speaker related it to a group of three or more people, we
can assume that he does not mind if the information will be known. If,
however, someone tells you about his wrongdoings, you are forbidden to
spread that information to belittle him, even if he related it in the
presence of three. Although the speaker has shown that he does not mind if
others know about his misbehavior, it is nonetheless forbidden for anyone to
deliberately publicize someone else’s actions to harm or embarrass him (Chofetz
Chaim, Chapter 2).
2. When someone reveals to you seemingly harmless information in a
manner which shows that he would like it to be kept secret, you are
forbidden to repeat it to others even if he did not explicitly tell you to
keep it secret. In the Pasuk quoted above, Hashem related information to
Moshe in the Ohel Moed, and the Torah teaches that it was permissible for
Moshe to repeat the information only because of ‘Laymor’--Saying--i.e.,
because Hashem gave him explicit permission to relate it to others (Be’er
Mayim Chaim 2:27).
3. The Chofetz Chaim writes that it is a good habit never to repeat
what people tell you unless they give you permission to do so. In this way
you will never relate information that might cause harm (ibid.).
4. You have no right to repeat someone’s secret just because you add
the phrase “Don’t repeat this to anyone else.” The person to whom you
related the secret might pass on the secret, also adding, “…and don’t repeat
this to anyone else.” In a very short time, the secret could become public
knowledge and cause harm or embarrassment to the person who confided in you
(Pele Yoetz, section on “Sod”).
5. Husbands and wives have no right to tell each other secrets that
someone told him or her in confidence (ibid.).
Finally, a person should be careful not to disclose his own secrets to
others. Before someone reveals a secret, he is the secret’s master. But
once someone reveals a secret, the secret is his master, for he lives in
fear that it will become known to others (Menoras Hamaor 2:4).”
Hakhel Note: Let us apply the Parasha’s great teaching in our everyday
lives--for everyone’s benefit!
------------------------------------------------------------
TEN
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS IN THE PURIM SPIRIT:
1.
QUESTION: How many Pesukim are there in the Megillah?
ANSWER:
166--corresponding to the number of words in Hallel HaGadol (Tehillim 136).
(Sefer Rokeach)
2.
QUESTION: What Pasuk in the Megillah teaches us that we will celebrate
Purim even in the days of Moshiach?
ANSWER:
“Vimei HaPurim Ha’eileh Lo Ya’avru Mitoch HaYehudim Vezichram Lo Yasuf
Mizaram--and these days of Purim will never cease among the Jews…” (Megillas
Esther 9:28).
3.
QUESTION: On what day and in what year did Haman intend to annihilate
the Jews?
ANSWER:
13 Adar 3405. Note: Achashveirosh only ruled for 14
years--from 3392 to 3406. Hakhel Note: Coincidence??
4. QUESTION:
Why was Esther referred to as Esther?
ANSWER:
One answer is because she was hidden (the root of Esther being
seiser--hidden) in Mordechai’s house for 75 years after she was
born (Targum and Targum Sheini) until she was discovered by the henchman of
Achashveirosh so that the nes of Purim could occur.
5. QUESTION: How was Vashti put to death by Achashveirosh?
ANSWER:
Let us just say you could no longer give her a ‘heads-up’ (see Targum).
6. QUESTION: We sing “Shoshanas Yaakov...Birosam Yachad Techeiles
Mordechai. What was the Techeiles of Mordechai all about?
ANSWER:
HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita suggests that when Mordechai was told to wear
the king’s garments, he had to place tzitzis (with Techeiles) on the
four-cornered ones, and as a result K’lal Yisrael realized that it was him
and not Haman on the king’s horse!
7.
QUESTION: What does the word Manos in Mishloach Manos
refer to?
ANSWER:
Although we commonly translate the term as portions, Rashi (Megillah 7A)
defines Manos as Minei Ma’adanim, kinds of delicacies.
8.
QUESTION: How does one fulfill the concept of Pirsumei Nissa on
Purim?
ANSWER:
The
reading of the Megillah publicizes the miracle--and as a result everyone
praises (or should praise) Hashem in its aftermath! As a matter of fact,
the reason that we read the Megillah at night and during the day is to
remember how K’lal Yisrael cried out to Hashem to be saved both at night and
during the day--and through this we remember the Nes!
9.
QUESTION: If when blowing the Shofar, we recite the bracha of
Lishmo’ah Kol Shofar, then why when reciting the Megillah do we not
recite the Pasuk Lishmo’ah Kriyas HaMegillah?
ANSWER:
The reading of the Megillah involves havanas halev--an understanding
beyond just hearing, like Kriyas Shema (Sefer Avudraham).
10.
QUESTION: A question obvious to all--why is Hashem’s name not written
in the Megillah?
ANSWER:
There are several answers to this question:
A. Since the Persians recorded the story as well, they would have replaced
any Sheim with the name of their own false deity. Accordingly, it is an
honor to Hashem for His name not to be mentioned (Maharil).
B. Chazal (Chulin 139B) teach that the allusion to Esther in the Torah is
from the Pasuk Ve’anochi Hastir Astir--and I will hide Myself [at
that time]. Accordingly, we learn that Hashem wanted His name to be hidden
relating to the events of Esther.
==============================
7 Adar II
MISHNA
YOMIS!
We are
on the portal of an incredible opportunity--Mishna Yomis is beginning a new
cycle, beginning on Wednesday, March 30th--one need only learn
two Mishnayos a day, and will complete Mishnayos in under six years! By the
following link, we provide a calendar for this wonderful program. As we all
know--Mishna and Neshama have the same letters, and the study on a steady,
consistent basis of a concise amount will certainly provide great benefits
to the Neshama. You can dedicate you study on behalf of yourself, whomever
you would like--or for the sake of the Geulah Sheleimah!
This
is the Mishna Yomis calendar: http://tinyurl.com/zk7lyph
For
further information, and for additional materials available, we refer you to
the following website
http://www.mishnahyomit.com
-------------------------------------------
GIVING
THANKS!
We may
forget all too quickly the Chasodim that Hashem performs for us, and the
Refuos and Yeshuos that we are granted. May we suggest that a person keep
on his desk or in a conspicuous place the bottle of antibiotics that he has
now finished, the remaining cold tablets that he did not have to take or the
ace bandage that once served him well and/or that he does not have to use.
Thinking and thanking--will hopefully lead to more grounds and causes--for
thanks!
------------------------------------------------------
THE HALACHOS OF LEFTIES:
B’EH, we continue our series on special Halachos for left-handed people,
excerpted from the Sefer Yad Eliezer: A collection of various Halachos,
Mitzvos and minhagim pertinent to left-handers, by Rabbi Paysach J.
Krohn, Shlita. As always, one should consult with his Rav or Posek regarding
his personal circumstances:
PART 4
1.
Blessing Children. According to the Arizal (cited in Sefer Ohr
Tzaddikim 29) children are blessed on Friday night with the right hand.
HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, emphasizes that both right-handers and
left-handers bentsch their children in the same way.
2.
Putting on Clothes. When putting on a shirt or jacket, one should put on
the right sleeve first, and then on the left. This is true for pants and
socks as well. In removing these items, one removes the left one first and
then the right one (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 2:4, 5, and Mishna Berurah
seif katan 5, 8).
3.
Netilas Yadayim. When washing hands in the morning, one picks up the
k’li in his right hand and then puts it into his left hand so that he
will wash his right hand first. The right hand is washed first and then the
left (this is true when washing for bread as well). Both the right-handed
and left-handed individual follow the same procedure.
-------------------------------------------
MISHLOACH MANOS--BRACHOS ALERT:
At
this time of year, many new products surface, which contain ingredients in
various proportions, and in which the appropriate bracha rishona (and bracha
acharona) is not clear. When shopping for one’s own home--and certainly when
shopping for Mishloach Manos--one should attempt to purchase only those
products on which the brachos are clear. After all, no one would want to be
machshil an adult or child with the wrong bracha. Undoubtedly, an
ikar of Mishloach Manos are the brachos that you are being mezake
another Jew to make!
-------------------------------------------
TAKING
A BETTER LOOK:
At a Hakhel Shiur relating to Purim, Rabbi Ben Tzion Shafier, Shlita, urged
everyone to prepare for Purim by reading the Megillah anew without the
influences of his childhood thoughts--but as a Sefer of Tanach. Rather than
view King Acashveirosh as a roly- poly, fickle nitwit, we should realize
instead Chazal’s teaching on the beginning words of the Megillah: ‘Hu
Achashveirosh’--Hu BeRisho Mitechilaso Ve’Ad Sofo--he is
Achashveirosh--evil from the beginning until the end. Haman, then, could
find no better partner to annihilate the Jews than him--for their
annihilation was a great desire of his as well. It is very telling that
even after the Neis Purim occurred, he still did not allow the rebuilding of
the Bais HaMikdash for as long as he was king! Yet, with all of his hatred
for us, Hashem caused him to move his kingdom’s capital to Shushan, the
place of the Jews, so that Mordechai would not have to burden himself in
traveling any distance to his palace. With this in mind, let us take the
time to study and appreciate the depth of every nuance and detail in the
Megillah--and make many new discoveries this year. We most certainly invite
you to share your discoveries and original thoughts with us!
-------------------------------------------
A
RELATED MEGILLAH NOTE--Q & A:
The following Q & A--as had been provided to us in the past by Rabbi
Reuvain Mendlowitz, Shlita, author of Inside Sta”m--An Insider
Reveals The Answers To All The Questions You Should Ask When Purchasing Or
Maintaining Tefillin, Mezuzos, Megillos, Sifrei Torah And Nevi’im.
Question
I
recently saw a stunning, illustrated megillah selling for a small fortune. I
was thinking about saving up to buy it, and thereby enhance my fulfillment
of Mitzvas Megillah. My chavrusa claims that while it may be a
nice piece of Judaica, in terms of Mitzvas Megillah, not only is it
not a beautification, it is a disgrace. I am rather offended by his
position. Could he possibly be correct?
Answer
Actually, he is correct. While disgrace may be a strong term,
the rationale behind it is accurate. Megillas Esther is part of
Kisvei HaKodesh (The Holy Writings), one of the twenty-four books of
Tanach. The correct way of beautifying Kisvei HaKodesh is by
fulfilling all the halachic requirements mandated by Chazal. To add
to the physical megillah, however, is a kind of statement that the scroll
lacks intrinsic beauty. This is quite an insult to the mitzvah since in
fact, there is nothing more beautiful than a mehudar STA”M item.
There is no need for us to add to what HaShem and Chazal find intrinsically
beautiful.
Regarding the phenomenon of illustrated Megillos, Rav Elyashiv Zt”l
was wont to say “ain ruach chachmim nocheh haimenu”, or loosely translated
“the chachamim are not pleased with him”.
An
external adornment such as a silver case is indeed befitting. It
communicates: “I value my beautiful megillah [or mezuzah] so much that I
want to store it in an appropriately beautiful case.”
-------------------------------------------
A
PURIM MOMENT:
HaRav Shimon Schwab, Z’tl (Rav Schwalb on Prayer, Artscroll, p.526) poses a
“I should have thought of that” question: Why does the Megillah in some
detail, and why do Chazal subsequently in Ahl HaNissim, spend the
time and effort to describe that Haman was hung on a tree, and that his 10
sons were hung on the tree almost a year later. Why do we have to remind
ourselves of this every year in the Megillah and in the Ahl Hanissim
so many times? Indeed, Rav Schwab points out—even in the Maoz Tzur of
Chanukah we sing “Rov Bonov Vekinyanav Al Hoetz Tolisa—Haman and a
good number of his sons were hung on the tree.” What special significance
does the tree have to this very special day?
Rav
Schwab answers: Chazal (Chullin 139B) teach that Haman is alluded to in the
Torah with the Eitz HaDaas—Hashem asks Adam: “Hamin Hoetz Asher…--Did
you eat of the tree which I commanded you not to eat?” What is the
relationship of Haman to the Eitz HaDaas –is it merely a play on words of
Haman and Hamin? Obviously not. There is a great lesson here.
Haman intended to commit the most heinous crime imaginable—the genocide of
an entire people. The aveirah of Adam and Chava at first blush seems to be
of no comparison whatsoever. After all, they wanted to grow spiritually—to
know the difference between Tov and Ra (Beraishis 3:5)—it was an Aveira for
them to eat only because Hashem did not want to grow in this way at this
time. They succumbed to the appeal which the fruit had to their
senses—albeit a supernal and lofty one. As Rav Schwalb teaches: “This was
the most exalted form of an aveirah ever committed.” Nevertheless, the
Megillah and Chazal teach that the worst possible aveirah known to
man—genocide-- had its origins in the sublime and elevated desire of Adam
and Chava. This is the route of aveira, this is the path of the Yetzer
Hara. Those ‘worst kind’ of aveiros start somewhere—they have their origin
in the slightest of aveiros. Haman’s aveira only began…because of the
Hamin that engendered it.
So,
when we read and refer to--and even pray about --the Tree of Haman this
Purim, let us make sure that we glean its great lesson. We will tell the
Yetzer Hara--”No, I am not going to begin—the one word of Lashon Hara, the
one bite of questionable food, picking up the muktza item because there
‘must be some heter’, not paying the worker what he asks because you want to
teach him a lesson… all of the good intentions, all of the ‘practically no
aveira’ of what you may be thinking, doing or saying—remember that 50 Amos
high tree-- look up to its top—and to the ‘little’ sapling! We will not
follow Haman--we will follow Mordechai!
==============================
6 Adar II
DISCLAIMER:
The
recently advertised “WeR1 Hakhel Purim Concert” has no affiliation
whatsoever with our Hakhel organization.
---------------------------------------------------------
FROM
YAD ELIEZER:
“Last
year, on Purim, you were a part of an incredible act of Chesed. Yad Eliezer
distributed $480,000 to Aniyim throughout Eretz Yisrael. It went to people
who needed it desperately.
We
have thousands of people waiting this year for this Matanos L’Evyonim.
May
HaKadosh Baruch Hu continue to bentsch us with the ability and the will to
care for K’lal Yisrael. Please contact us at www.yadeliezer.org , or by
calling 718-258-1580.
A
Freilichen Purim!”
---------------------------------------------------------
PLEASE DAVEN:
As we noted yesterday Adar Sheini and Nissan are juxtaposed as premier
months of Geulah. Accordingly, 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
-
http://bit.ly/a1hRe3
Additional Note: It would also seem appropriate to look for the terms ‘geulah’
and ‘yeshua’ in your davening and make them real-very real!
-------------------------------------------------
THE
GIFT OF JOY!
As we
have noted in the past, the Chayei Adam (68:13) writes that “HaSimcha
HaGedolah B’Mitzvah--joy is the greatest [or at least one of the
greatest] elements in performing a Mitzvah.” He continues, based upon the
Arizal, that the happiness one experiences when fulfilling a Mitzvah should
really be more blissful than that experience when one finds a host of
pleasures and precious jewels. In fact, the Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch,
Orach Chaim 669:1, seif katan 11) writes in the name of the Arizal that the
highest levels he reached came about through his great joy in performing
Mitzvos. It behooves us to take a Mitzvah that we perform daily, and put a
little thought into it prior to its performance so that we can be truly
joyful when performing the Mitzvah. Most certainly, the privilege and the
ability to study Torah--Hashem’s direct words and instructions--should bring
us to bliss. Every time we sit down to learn we must appreciate the joy we
bring to our inner selves--and the eternity that will result from it.
Additionally, the opportunity to stand before Hashem in prayer, with the
knowledge that the King of kings, the Creator and Provider is listening,
should likewise provide nothing less than unbridled ecstasy. Of course, the
opportunity to perform each and every Mitzvah, large or small, easy or
difficult is an opportunity of infinite Olam Haba right here in this
temporal Olam Hazeh. We should certainly not rob ourselves of an
opportunity for true spiritual joy--at least once a day, and especially
during this special month! One should make sure to put forethought into at
least one Mitzvah he is about to perform daily, sincerely appreciate and
delight at the opportunity, and simply delight in its performance.
-------------------------------------------------
THE HALACHOS OF LEFTIES:
B’EH, we continue our series on special Halachos for left-handed people,
excerpted from the Sefer Yad Eliezer: A collection of various Halachos,
Mitzvos and minhagim pertinent to left-handers, by Rabbi Paysach J.
Krohn, Shlita. As always, one should consult with his Rav or Posek regarding
his personal circumstances:
PART 3
1. Shema. The Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 61, seif
katan 17) writes that one places his hand over his eyes when reciting the
first Pasuk of Shema in order to increase one’s concentration. HaRav Chaim
Kanievsky, Shlita, writes that the use of the right hand in this instance is
ahl pi kabbala, and accordingly, there is no difference between
right-handed and left-handed people in this regard.
2. Tzedaka. One should give Tzedaka with his right hand, ahl pi
kabbalah--whether or not a person is right-handed or left-handed. (Ohr
Tzadikim 66 from the Arizal)
3. Mezuzah. A Mezuzah should always be affixed on the right side of
the entranceway. (Shulchan Aruch Yoreh De’ah 289:2) This is the Halacha even
if a left-hander is living alone in the house or if all who live in the home
are left-handed. The reason Mezuzah differs from Tefillin is because the
determination of how to wear Tefillin is based on each individual, whereas
Mezuzah is a Mitzvah on the house. (Shach to Yoreh De’ah 289:2:5) The
Debritziner Rav (Be’er Moshe Vol. 2:2) suggests however, that a left-handed
person should kiss the Mezuzah with his left hand.
---------------------------------------------------------
CELL
PHONE AVEIROS?:
The
cell phone can be a tool for good, and a tool for.... Consider whether you
have done any of the following: (1) Walked into a person as you were texting
or emailing while walking on the sidewalk. (2) Taken out your phone while
standing in the Bais HaKenesses and sending a ten second text--while others,
who could learn from your actions, were watching. (3) Emailed or texted
while talking with your wife or child [or anyone else], even though you
could really pay perfect attention to both activities, and had no time to
waste. Are these Aveiros? Please consider.
--------------------------------------------
ON
BRACHOS:
A great personal exercise in combating the Yetzer Hara The may be for one to
go through his day and find a bracha which he recites with the least
Kavannah or attention--and make a definite effort to improve it in some
way. Is it the first bracha that one makes in the morning while still
bleary eyed--Al Netilas Yadayim? Is it Borei Nefashos--which
is so short anyways? Is it Hamapil--which is recited when one are so
tired and falling asleep? Is it Yishtabach--because one is in a
hurry to get to the Birchos Kriyas Shema? Whichever bracha it may be--your
devotion to making a change--especially in something important as a bracha
indicates your desire to come closer to Hashem!
---------------------------------------------------------
A
PURIM MOMENT:
Let us
take a step back. The Megillah teaches that Mordechai
sat at the gate of the king’s palace, Esther had messengers going back and
forth to him, and Chazal teach that she met with Mordechai continuously as
well. Prior to Esther becoming queen, there is no evidence that Mordechai’s
relationship with her--raising her when she became orphaned, or marrying her
had ever been kept as a great secret. Yet, incredibly, Achashveirosh as king
over 127 nations could not figure out which nation she was from and
contrived various inducements for Esther to reveal her nationality--all of
which failed. Esther did reveal it to him--when Hashem was good and
ready--exposing Haman and saving K’lal Yisroel. Nothing, absolutely nothing,
in this world is obvious--everything that is known, everything that is
revealed--is in the Hands of our Father in Heaven! Hakhel Note: How is your
Hashgacha Pratis Calendar proceeding --if you have not started--start today!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Q &A:
Why does the Megillah refer to Haman’s lottery with the term “Hepil Pur,
Hu HaGoral”(Megillah 3:7)-was is the difference between a Pur and
Goral?
ANSWER:
The
Meforshim (ibid.) explain that a Pur is a lottery which is intended
to have a negative result, while a Goral is intended to have a
positive. Thus, Haman had intended for it to be a Pur for Klal
Yisroel--however--the Megillah already testified at that time that it would
be a Goral--a lottery in which we were the winners! May it happen
again--speedily and in our day!
==============================
5 Adar II
THINK ABOUT MISHLOACH MANOS:
Now would also be a good time to begin thinking about not only who you
have to send Mishloach Manos to, but also who would be truly moved
and appreciative for being remembered, thought about, or
reconciled with through the Mishloach Manos. Rabbi Yechiel Spero, Shlita,
in A Touch of Purity writes that in the phrase “Mishloach Manos
Ish LeRei’eihu” both the word Ish and LeRei’eihu have the
same Gematria to indicate the level of identification, affection, and
oneness that one should have with another! Hakhel Note: Consideration in
thinking about Mishloach Manos would be to include some bakavodik--and
even healthy food. We note that at least one of the Kosher salad
manufacturers has a Mishloach Manos product.
------------------------------------------------------------
SUGGESTION OF THE DAY:
Every day, Hashem’s kindnesses to us are so great that we describe them in
Shemone Esrei as “Ki Lo Samu Chasodecha--Hashem’s Chesed is
unending”. When reciting these all-encompassing words we should feel the
bliss of the many (countless) blessings we have at that moment--relating to
the body, soul, family, personal miracles and experiences, etc. One can and
should sense a shower of Chasodim upon him, just as one senses the pleasure
of a hot shower on a tired or perspired body--the water keeps on coming and
coming-bringing salvation, relief and renewal! Indeed, even throughout the
day--as one realizes the specific blessing here and the definite blessing
there--exclaim ‘Ki Lo Samu Chasodecha--Your Chesed keeps coming and
coming!
------------------------------------------------------------
IT IS NOT IRONIC!
As we learned in last week’s Parasha, when one entered the Kodesh, the
Shulchan, or the table with the Lechem HaPanim on it was on the
right and the Menorah was on the left. The Shulchan, of course,
symbolizes prosperity and blessing in this world while the Menorah
represents the light of Torah and its study. We would have better
understood it if the Menorah was to the right and the Shulchan to the
left. After all, we attribute greater Chashivus to the right, and,
moreover the right was north--which was the direction in which the Kadshei
Kadshim--the most holy of Karbanos were brought. In order to resolve this
paradox, some commentaries explain that there is a great difference between
our approach to attaining the ‘Shulchan’ and our approach to attaining the
‘Menorah’ in life. What do we mean? Chazal (Pesachim 50B) teach that Torah
can first be studied She’lo Lishmah--not for its own sake, and that will
eventually lead to Lishmah. As Chazal especially express it: “Mitoch
She’lo Lishmah Bah Lishmah.” With this, we can understand why we first
begin teaching young children with candies and treats, prizes and more
prizes. As a person grows, however, he realizes that it is the Torah itself
which is the eternal treat and the everlasting prize. When it comes to the
Shulchan, however, there is no room for She’lo Lishmah. We cannot focus
upon earthly passions, desires, goals, and attainments as an end in
itself--even with the intent of eventually making one’s life more noble and
elevated. One should not ever place the emphasis on satisfaction of Olam
Hazeh needs as an end in and of itself. It is for this reason that the
Shulchan must be on the right--for it must always be in the ‘Lishmah mode.’
What a great lesson! Many times throughout the day when one finds the
challenge arise as to a particular indulgence, gratification or desire, he
should remember that the Menorah is to the left… but that the Shulchan
always remains to the right!
------------------------------------------------------------
DO
THIS--NO, DO THIS…!
Rabbi Eli Mansour, Shlita, brings Chazal who teach about how the Yetzer Hara
operates: “HaYom Omeir Lo Aseh Kacha, U’lemachar Aseh Kacha--today
the Yetzer Hara says ‘do this’ and tomorrow ‘do this’. Why
is the same term--do this today, do this tomorrow used? Rabbi
Mansour beautifully teaches that the tachlis of the Yetzer Hara is to keep
you at status quo--whatever you are doing today---do it tomorrow. Don’t
grow, don’t become better, don’t get anywhere in life. you are five minutes
late every day to Shul, that’s just fine--keep it like that; you don’t have
time to go over the Parasha--hey, you did that when you were younger, no
need to start something new now; you sometimes lose yourself--that’s good,
you have to every once in a while--keep it up. Our task in life is to fight
him at his “Kacha’s”--just do it and do it again. We have to become better
than yesterday--and not allow yesterday’s Kacha in! Hakhel Note : Rebbi
Yisroel Salanter, Z’tl, explains that the Keruvim had the appearance of
children--for us to realize that in our relationship with Hashem and with
others we should view ourselves as children--not stuck in any kind of bad
habit or rut--and always willing to try something new, always trying to
explore--to get up and grow. Let us be guided by the light of doing more
than in the past, as we have pointed out in the past--doing Yoseir MiMah
She’Hayisi--not being a Kacha Jew--but being like the Keruvim
--better today than the day before!
------------------------------------------------------------
A
PURIM MOMENT:
It would be logical for Purim to be in the first month of Adar when there is
a leap year, with Adar Rishon being the real Adar--and Adar Sheini simply
being an additional “thirteenth” month so that Pesach ultimately comes out
in the spring as required by the Torah. Indeed, this is the opinion of the
Tanna Rebbi Eliezer B’ Rebbi Yosi (Megillah 6B). L’Halacha, we Pasken like
Rabban Shimon Ben Gamliel (ibid.) who rules that Purim is in Adar Sheini
because we must juxtapose and relate the Geulah of Purim to the Geulah of
Pesach. Rebbi Eliyahu Schneider, Shlita, explains that this effectively
means that we are to perceive Adar Sheini--and certainly Purim itself--as a
time of Geulah. This Geulah is important enough to delay Purim by a
month--and to relate it directly to the Geulah of Pesach. Accordingly, in
this auspicious time--when reciting the Brachos of Ga’al Yisrael at
Shacharis and Ma’ariv--and of Go’el Yisrael in each Shemone Esrei,
we should energize ourselves and recognize that this is talking about--us!
------------------------------------------------------------
Q & A:
To help continue to arouse the spirit of
Mishenichnas Adar Marbin B’Simcha, we provide the following questions
relating to the events of Megillas Esther, which have been culled from the
Sefer Sifsei Chachomim, introduction to Mesechta Megillah, and other
sources:
1. QUESTION: What are the ten significant kingdoms that span all of
human history?
ANSWER:
(i) Hashem when He created the world, and was recognized by all; (ii)
Nimrod, when he rebelled before Hashem in front of the world; (iii) Paroh
Melech Mitzrayim; (iv) the kingdom of Ahm Yisrael in Eretz Yisrael; (v)
Nevuchadnezzar, king of Baval; (vi) Achashveirosh; (vii) Yavan; (viii) Rome;
(ix) Moshiach; and (x) when Hashem once again is recognized by all as Rule
of the world, as the Navi teaches: “VeHaya Hashem LeMelech Ahl Kol
Ha’aretz”.
2. QUESTION: We know that the Gematria of Boruch Mordechai and Arur
Haman are the same. To what is the Gematria of Arurah Zeresh equivalent?
ANSWER:
Esther Livracha (Steipeler Gaon).
3.
QUESTION: The word Purim is written five times in the Megillah--twice
with a Vav and three times without a Vav--why?
ANSWER:
The two times with a Vav (i.e., with the word complete) allude to the 14th
and 15th of Adar, each of which are celebrated as Purim in all
respects, only depending upon whether the city was originally walled or not.
The three times Purim is written without a Vav represents the 11th,
12th and 13th of Adar, days upon which in certain
circumstances in the past the Megillah could have been read (and Matanos
L’Evyonim given)--but Simchas Purim was in any event even in these
circumstances celebrated on the 14th(Cheishek Shlomo).
Hakhel Note: Oh, how much we can learn from the presence or absence of even
one letter in the Megillah!
4.
QUESTION: Can you name at least three Nevi’im--other than Mordechai and
Esther--that lived at the time that the miracle of Purim took place?
ANSWER:
Baruch
Ben Neryah, Sraya Ben Machsaya, Daniel, Chagai, Zechariah and Malachi. (Rashi
to Megillah 15A)
5. QUESTION: What was the name of Haman’s mother?
ANSWER:
Her name was Amasla’i (Bas Urvasi). Chazal (Baba Basra 91A) teach that the
name of Avrohom Avinu’s mother was also Amasla’i (Bas Karnevo). One
suggested reason for the two mothers having the same name is that whenever
Haman Bas Amasla’i is mentioned, it will be me’orer the zechus of Avrohom
Avinu--just as when we mention the city of Chevron, we are me’orer the
zechus Avos (see Yoma 28B).
==============================
4 Adar II
LAST
CALL!
1.
If you start today learning Mishnayos Megillah and learn just three
Mishnayos a day (after Shacharis, Maariv, etc.), you will complete all of
the Mishnayos in the Mesechta on Purim, and if you then continue to
learn three (3) mishnayos per day of Mishnayos Pesachim starting on Purim
(it is a mitzvah to begin learning Hilchos Pesach on Purim, as brought in
the Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 429; Mishna Berurah seif katan 2), you
will complete Mishnayos Pesachim for Pesach!
2.
If you start today, and learn one perek of Megillas Esther a day, you will
have reviewed the Megillah in time for its laining on Leil Purim.
Remember--the Torah Jew places special emphasis not only on the Mitzvah--but
on the Hachana --the preparation for the Mitzvah!
--------------------------------------------
A
TIMELY MESSAGE!
As we pointed out last week, the Ba’al HaTurim teaches that the 18 brachos
of Shemone Esrei correspond to the 18 times in last week’s Parasha that the
Pasuk records: “Ka’asher Tziva Hashem Es Moshe”. The Ba’al HaTurim
then continues with a second insight: The word Lev
appears 113 times in the Torah, which corresponds to the 113 words which
end each bracha of Shemone Esrei--Baruch Atta Hashem Magein Avraham…
Baruch Atta Hashem Mechayei HaMeisim….Baruch Atta Hashem HaKel
HaKadosh…. The corresponding number of 113 teaches us that we are to
especially have Kavannah as we recite the conclusion of each bracha of
Shemone Esrei. In the now short period that we are in before Purim--it
is the ideal time to focus on having Kavannah in the concluding words of
each bracha of Shemone Esrei…Baruch Atta Hashem Go’el Yisrael…Baruch Atta
Hashem Rofeih Cholei Amo Yisrael…. Baruch Atta Hashem Sho’meiah Tefillah….
Baruch Atta Hashem Hamevareich Es Amo Yisrael BaShalom!
------------------------------------------------
ENOUGH ALREADY!:
As we take leave of the Mishkan and move in Sefer Vayikrah to the Karbanos
that were brought there, HaRav Ezriel Erlanger, Shlita, brings an amazing
teaching from the Ramban. The Ramban notes that when enough materials had
been donated for the building of the Mishkan, those in charge of building
the Mishkan reported this to Moshe and the people were told that there
was enough and that they need not bring anymore. This demonstrates the
greatness of K’lal Yisrael. If it was any other government or any other
important person that was collecting funds, it would certainly have not
stopped people from adding on to the treasury or to the coffers of what was
certainly an important cause. By saying “we have enough” the leaders
of K’lal Yisrael demonstrated that the emphasis on life is not hording or
aggregating money without a distinct purpose and cause in mind. This
lesson--so clearly recorded in the Torah-- was not only for the Dor HaMidbar--but
for all future generations as well. Our passion and drive is not for money
and more of it--but for Mitzvos and more of them!
-----------------------------------------------
TODAY’S MEGILLAH READING! The
Chovos HeLevavos teaches us: “Ki HaYamim Megillos Kisvu Bahem
Mah Shetachpetzu Sheyizacher Lachem--Everyone’s days are like
Megillos--write in them what you wish to be remembered for.” (Sha’ar
Cheshbon HaNefesh, Chapter 3).
-------------------------------------------
PURIM
COSTUME ALERT:
The
Luach Davar B’Ito reminds all that Purim costumes (especially hats from
Eastern Europe) may contain shatnez, and accordingly should be checked in
advance of Purim to make sure that the costume is usable. The Luach
also strongly advises against using costumes which can scare others. It
also suggests that the child ‘tries the costume on’ in front of a parent so
that it fits, is clean and no buttons are missing…to avoid any last minute
consternation or disappointment. Hakhel Note: We had previously pointed out
that a Halachic issue is raised as to whether one may daven in a Purim
costume. The Dirshu Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 91, Note 17)
brings a Teshuvah from the Shevet HaLevi (10:18) in which the Shevet
HaLevi rules that if a Chossid is dressed as a misnagid, or vice
versa, he may daven in the costume, provided that he is in a respectful
frame of mind and his body is covered. Although as previously noted, the
Dirshu Note appears to read this ruling more expansively, one should consult
with his Rav or Posek with respect to other costumes.
-------------------------------------------
AN
IMPORTANT THING TO REMEMBER!
As Purim approaches, one may feel that he has to be a little bit tighter
with Tzedaka until Purim comes, and may also feel uneasy about all of the
contributions on Purim as well. There is a story related about R’ Itzele
Petteburger, Z’tl, who reached into his pocket and gave a stranger Tzedaka.
After the person left, R’ Itzele remarked that he felt no difficulty, no
hold-back, with his act of giving--so the Tzedaka in that case was probably
not a true one. The Yetzer Hara would only bring about hesitation and
resistance when the Mitzvah was real--otherwise, he will let it go by with
pleasure. So, if you are approached for Tzedaka within the
next ten days--remember for the large part where your inner resistance is
coming from. Similarly, when giving Matanos Le’Evyonim--overcome the
challenge and remember to give each and every person wisely--and B’Sever
Panim Yafos!
-------------------------------------------
PROGRESSING!
As we have now progressed to the fourth day of Adar(!), we are reminded of
the words of Rav Dessler, Z’tl in Michtav Mai’Eliyahu (Volume 2,
p.123). Rav Dessler teaches that just as there are stages in the aveilus of
Av beginning with Rosh Chodesh --which climax on Tisha B’Av, so too is there
an increase in the Simcha one is to feel as he moves daily through Adar-
reaching a pinnacle on Purim and Shushan Purim. This avodah is not
something that we wait until the last moment with. Our joy is not marked by
a one-time chuckle at a joke or one-liner, but at the Simcha of our
relationship with HaKadosh Baruch Hu, as the world turns on the axle of His
Hashgacha Pratis over us.
In
connection with this fundamental point, we received the following
correspondence from a reader: “HaRav Avrohom Schorr, Shlita explains that
the Sefer Chovos Halevavos writes that one who trusts Hashem, i.e., a
Ba’al Bitochon, is always BeSimcha. It follows that if wants to be Marbeh
Besimcha, it would mean that he should work on increasing Bitachon (such as
by studying the Chovos Halevavos Sha’ar HaBitochon) in Chodesh Adar”.
Hakhel
Note: The Sefer Orchos Tzaddikim, which consists of 28
Sha’arim or Chapters, each of which is named by and describes a particular
Midah, also contains a discussion of Bitachon--can you guess the name
of the Sha’ar--the topic, in which the discussion of Bitachon is contained?
Let us get the message from these most classic of Seforim--and let us use
this precious time period to expand our Simcha horizons!
-----------------------------------
A PURIM MOMENT!
This time of year represents and reminds us of the special level of
Hashgacha that Hashem graces us with. Sometimes it is clear to see, and
sometimes we may not even realize how we were lead in a particular direction
or on a specific path. Indeed, some commentaries to Tehillim 117 explain
that the reason we exclaim: “Halelu Es Hashem Kol Goyim, Shabechuhu Kol
HaUmim--praise Hashem all nations, praise Him all nationalities” is
because we do not even know the nature or extent of the designs and schemes
against us from which we were saved--and only they do. On the other hand,
with the Nes of Purim, it was clear for all to see Hashem’s tremendous
‘behind-the-scenes’ actions for many years--and that but for the great
Hashgacha Pratis we would have been annihilated--as had actually happened to
scores of nations previously in existence. Indeed, the term “Megillas
Esther” expressly affirms the dual nature of our Hashgacha--sometimes it is
‘Megillah,’ meaning thoroughly revealed--and sometimes it is ‘Esther,’
meaning wholly hidden. Accordingly, we once again recommend that it would
be an appropriate Avodah at this time of year to work on experiencing and
appreciating the Hashgacha Pratis in each one of our personal lives. “Why
did I feel that I was coming down with a cold and then not get it?” “Why
did my cell phone break today?” “How did I get involved in redding this
Shidduch?” “Why did I learn this today--is there some way in which I should
be applying it?”... Although one cannot go through an entire day noting
this and noting that, it most certainly behooves us during the month of Adar
to write down at least one Hashgacha Pratis incident of the day which
you recognized as a clear indication of Hashem’s hand in your life. It is
no secret, and we have noted here before, that once a person recognizes the
tremendous Hashgacha to which he is subject, the more Simcha he will feel in
his closeness to Hashem. Your own personal Adar 5776 Hashgacha Pratis
Calendar--a marvelous goal and special achievement for what we hope will
be a Simcha-filled month!
==============================
1 Adar II
CHODESH ADAR SHENI HAS ARRIVED!
A.
Reminder--even if you start learning Mishnayos Megillah today
and learn just three Mishnayos a day (after Maariv, with your son, etc.),
you will complete the entire Mesechta on Purim, and if you then continue to
learn Mishnayos Pesachim starting on Purim (it is a mitzvah to begin
learning Hilchos Pesach on Purim (as brought in the Shulchan Aruch, Orach
Chaim 429; Mishna Berurah seif katan 2), you will complete Mishnayos
Pesachim before Pesach!
B. If
you start today, and learn one perek of Megillas Esther a day, you will have
reviewed the Megillah in time for its laining on Leil Purim. Remember--the
Torah Jew places special emphasis not only on the Mitzvah--but on the
Hachana --the preparation for the Mitzvah!
C. The
following contemporary Sefarim (Hebrew) are recommended by the Sefer
Luach Davar B’Ito in preparation for Purim: Purim V’Chodesh Adar
(HaRav Cohen); Yemei HaPurim (HaRav Schwartz); Nitei Gavriel--Purim
(HaRav Tziner); and Yismach Yisrael (HaRav Dardik).
D.
MAKE SURE THAT YOUR SHUL JOINS YESHIVAS MORDECHAI HATZADDIK THIS
PURIM! Yeshivas
Mordechai Hatzadik, Torah study in Shul on Purim day, has
hundreds of branches worldwide, with tens of thousands participating.
If your Shul does not yet participate in this noble project (Torah study
on such a busy day--what a Zechus!), please contact Avos U’Banim
(contact information below) to learn how you can join. Most certainly, it
is a special merit to contribute towards the prizes given to the children
for learning on this day! Avos U’Banim even supplies Shuls with a prize for
every young man that attends at a significantly reduced cost. For more
information please contact Avos U’Banim’s US director, Rabbi Yosef Tenenbaum
at 1-845-798-6637, or contact Avos U’Banim by e-mail at
avotusa@kewnet.com
-------------------------------------------
THE
THIRTEENTH MONTH!:
The Torah (Shemos 12:2) teaches that “HaChodesh HaZeh Lochem Rosh
Chadashim Rishon Hu Lachem Lechodshei HaShanah”--notwithstanding when
the New Year begins--the First Month of our Year is Nissan, and Tishrei is
actually the Seventh Month of the Year (see Mishna Rosh Hashanah 1:1 for
further explanation). Accordingly, with Adar Beis, we arrive at the last
month of the Year--and this morning we have recited “UleChaparas Posha”
for the last time this Leap Year! As we learn from Yaakov placing Rochel and
Yosef last in their greeting Eisav--Acharon Acharon Chaviv--the
last can be the most precious. Indeed, some even ‘save the best for
last--so it has a longer lasting effect’. So, we can use this last month to
great advantage--by cleaning up the spills of the past 12 months, and
inaugurating Nissan on a new and smooth pavement. Is it any wonder that the
first Mishna in Mesechta Shekalim, and Parashas Shekalim that we read last
week, REMIND US to prepare in the month ahead--to be ready and to donate the
Shekalim on time?! We too can accomplish and attain a successful Adar
day by day--starting today. We can begin today by determining if we
have properly honored or can in some way improve in honoring Rosh Chodesh.
Will my Mincha Shemone Esrei today be infused with more Kavanna--will I
recite the awesome Tefillah of Ya’aleh VeYavo--in which I ask that my
Tefillos pierce through the Seven Heavens and appear before Hashem’s
Throne for Remembrance--slowly and with the expectation and drive that
they are piercing through to the top? Oh, what opportunity we have to take
us out of the disappointment and dismay, out of the confusion and terror, of
Galus through the powerful Tefillos gifted to us!
HAKHEL
NOTE: With this the last month of the year being the portal to the upcoming
first month, it
may also be a good time to review what we are FIRST or close to first
to do and what we are LAST or close to last to do. Where do we
especially place our true Zerizus efforts and excel--and what do we
particularly put off doing. Is there any part of this that could or should
change? Where am I in terms of arriving in Shul for Minyan or a Shiur--as
one of the first to arrive, around the middle, or towards the end? Is there
anything that should I put off to the end? We know that there must be some
way that last is important--after all in the Ani Ma’amins themselves--we
affirm our belief that Hashem is Rishon and Acharon--First and Last! Here
is a possible suggestion for what a person can do first or at the outset of
every day--give Tzedaka (as the Pasuk teaches--“Ani BeTzedek Ecehezeh
Ponecha”), and perhaps a last thing to do every day--highlight the most
successful and least successful part of the day passed--and think about how
to rectify the ‘plopping’ (above)--and how to keep the successes coming!
-----------------------------------------------
A PURIM MOMENT:
When is ga’avah good? One answer is that its letters--gimel, aleph,
vav and heih, represent the days upon which Purim can fall--Tuesday, Sunday,
Friday and Thursday! To help arouse our spirit as to the moment of Purim
approaching--and the spirit of Mishenichnas Adar Marbim BeSimcha--this
month according to all opinions, we provide the following questions
relating to the events of Megillas Esther:
1. QUESTION: How long was Haman a barber for before he became
Achashveirosh’s right-hand [or, perhaps, second-hand] man?
ANSWER:
He was a barber in K’far Kartzum for 22 years (Megillah 16A).
2.
QUESTION:
When Haman heard that Achashveirosh ordered him to take Mordechai around on
the king’s horse--what did Haman suggest to Achashveirosh to do for
Mordechai instead?
ANSWER:
He said that it would be enough to give him one village or one river
(ibid.).
3. QUESTION: Name at least two acts that are attributed to the Malach
Gavriel in the Purim story.
ANSWER:
He placed a tail on Vashti so that she would be too ashamed to appear at
Achashveirosh’s feast (Megillah ibid. 12B). Also, when Achashveirosh could
not sleep and he ordered that his Divrei HaYamim be read before him, Shimshi
the king’s scribe and a Jew-hater kept on trying to erase the recording of
how Mordechai had saved Achashveirosh’s life from Bigsan and Seresh--and
Gavriel kept on re-writing it (ibid. 16A).
4. QUESTION: Can you identify a Pasuk in Tanach that Haman knew?
ANSWER:
Chazal teach that when Haman told Mordechai to get up onto the king’s horse,
Mordechai advised him that he was too weak from fasting to do so. Haman then
had to bow down so that Mordechai could step on him to ascend onto the
horse. When Mordechai did so, he kicked Haman. Haman responded: “Does it not
state ‘Binfol Oyvecha Ahl Tismach’?” (Mishlei 24:17)? Mordechai
responded that the Pasuk does not refer to the enemies of K’lal Yisrael
(ibid.)!
5. QUESTION: What gezeiros did Haman make against K’lal
Yisrael, besides for his intent to ultimately r’l annihilate them?
ANSWER:
(i) He decreed that no one could purchase a Jew as a slave--so that no Jew
would be protected at the time of the intended annihilation (ibid. 11A);
(ii) From the Pasuk of “Laihudim Haysah Orah”--which teaches how the
Jews celebrated after Haman’s plan was foiled, we learn what he decreed
against: Orah--the study of Torah, Simcha--the observance of
Yom Tov, Sason--Bris Milah, and Yekar--Tefillin.
Hakhel Note: Once again, the Pasuk reads: “Laihudim Haysah Orah V’Simcha”--we
may learn from this that the prerequisite to Simcha is-- Orah--Torah!
Certainly, one thing we should be doing now in preparation for Purim is
learning more Torah--especially relating to Purim and the Megillah!
-----------------------------------------------
WE
CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
A.
Reminder regarding the computerized date stamp on soda caps, one reader
advised us that if you cut the ring with a knife before Shabbos (so that the
soda does not lose its carbonation, as it would if one were to open it in
the regular manner)--then when you twist the cap back on after opening for a
drink on Shabbos -it will not reset to exactly the same place --and so you
will not be writing the date stamp back when you close the bottle. You may
want to test this with a bottle of your own. D.
The Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (75:2), relating to Neiros Shabbos rules as
follows: “The candles should be so long that they burn until after the meal.
One should seek to purchase fine candles. Rav Huna teaches (Shabbos 23B): A
person who is accustomed to lighting Neiros Yafos--attractive
Shabbos candles--will merit sons who will be Torah scholars. The Pasuk (Mishlei
6:23) indeed states: “Ki Ner Mitzvah, VeTorah Ohr--for a Mitzvah is a
candle, and Torah light”--i.e., the candle of Mitzvah will bring about the
light of Torah.”
B. A
Muktzah item (e.g. raw fish or flour) in a refrigerator or freezer that is
preventing one from removing a non-Muktzah item (e.g. Challah) which is
needed on Shabbos may be moved in the following manner: One should place
one’s hands in the refrigerator or freezer and take hold of the non-Muktzah
item (e.g. Challah). While removing the non-Muktzah item a person may place
his hands in the front of the Muktzah item to prevent the non-Muktzah from
falling out. In the event that this is not possible one may push the
Muktzah item to the side (e.g. raw fish or flour) using with a Non-Muktzah
object (e.g. a knife). Notes: (a) If a freezer broke and raw fish or meat
will spoil (which would result in a serious financial loss), one may rely on
the authorities that rule that raw fish or meat is not Muktzah on Shabbos.
(b) Raw eggs are not considered Muktza as some people will use them in that
state. (Muktza: A Practical Guide, by Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen,
Shlita--Artscroll Halacha Series).
C. We
once again supply the email address for Shabbos Stories--a weekly free email
compilation from a wide variety of sources--it is
keren18@juno.com Hakhel Note: This will assist you with the story, but
Zemiros--no matter how tired or tone deaf you are--are up to you--and may be
indicative in some way of just exactly how happy you are in celebrating the
Shabbos. In any event, remember that the Chitzoniyos is Me’orrer the
P’nimius.
D.
The following Halachos are excerpted from the pamphlet Piskei Shulchan
HaLevi, the pesokim of HaRav Yisroel Belsky, Z’tl, as compiled by R’
Shmuel Tzvi Cohen with an approbation from
HaRav Belsky. As with all pesokim, one should ask his Rav or Posek for a
final ruling:
1. If
one has no cup other than a disposable one, he may use it for Kiddush or
bentsching--but lechatchila one should use a nice cup (see Igros
Moshe, Orach Chaim 3:39).
2. If
one usually recites Kiddush over a regular size becher on Shabbos morning,
and finds himself in a place in which he is given a schnapps glazel--he
should not recite Kiddush over it. Even if the Ba’al HaBayis does so, one
should nevertheless insist that it is his minhag to utilize a regular size
becher.
3. If
one is being yotzei kiddush through another--then he should follow
the one who is reciting Kiddush as to whether to stand or sit. If one does
not do so, then he does not appear to be kove’ah seudah with him.
4. If
one skipped a Parasha or more in the weekly recitation of Shenayim Mikra
V’echad Targum--then one should first read the Parasha of this week, and
then go back and make up the Parashios of the prior weeks.
5.
Bochurim who enjoy ‘taking two steps at a time’ may do so on Shabbos--and
will not violate the issur of taking pesyiah gasa on Shabbos,
since this is their enjoyment.
6. One
may fold a paper napkin on its crease, and this is not considered to be
fixing it--as it will be disposed of after its one-time use.
7. It
is permissible to make a necktie on Shabbos only if it is tied in a manner
in which one will be able to untie it by pulling it once.
8.
Orange peels are not muktzah, for there are food items that are
prepared from them.
9. One
should not pour a drink over ice cubes on Shabbos. Rather, one should pour
the drink in first and then put the ice into it. Then, if one wants to fill
up his cup again, he should make sure that part of the original drink is
left in the cup.
10.
One should not clap a musical or rhythmic beat on the table.
11.
When singing zemiros, one should say Hashem’s name, rather than saying the
word ‘Hashem’--as reciting Hashem’s name in zemiros is not considered to be
levatalah.
12.
Even if one has a minhag to wait less than 50 minutes after shekiyah in
order to do melacha on Motza’ei Shabbos--he should change his minhag and
wait 50 minutes, and preferably 72.
E.
The Chofetz Chaim once convinced a Jew who was Mechallel Shabbos in his
business to become Shomer Shabbos. “The only thing, Rebbe, is that I need
to work another one or two Shabbosim in order to straighten out all my books
and records, and finish my Shabbos affairs,” he said. The Chofetz Chaim
lovingly looked at the man and said--” I am not the Ba’al HaBayis over
Shabbos to be able to grant your request. Shabbos belongs to Hashem--and he
has already determined that each and every moment of each and every Shabbos
is of great and untold significance and importance--so forget your
cheshbonos--and rely on Hashem’s Hand to help you!” Let us appreciate each
precious moment of Shabbos--and make sure that we recognize and demonstrate
through our especially sincere and sublime action that it is Hashem Himself
who is the Ba’al Habayis over the day!
-----------------------------------------------
POINTS
AND POINTERS ON THIS WEEK’S PARASHA:
A. How
many times in this week’s Parasha is the phrase
“Ka’asher Tzivah Hashem Es Moshe--[and the work was performed] as
Hashem had commanded Moshe” repeated--and why. We are happy to report that
a reader had once calculated the answer on her own--and then found the
confirmation and an incredible reason for this number in the Ba’al Haturim
on the Parasha (Shemos 40:21)--all as brought in the wonderful publication
by Rabbi Ozer Alport, Shlita--Parsha Potpourri. As Rabbi Alport
writes, “As there are no coincidences in the Torah, the Baal HaTurim
explains that this number alludes to the 18 blessings recited thrice daily
in the prayers known as Shemoneh Esrei.” Rabbi Alport shows how our
‘standard daily prayers’ are really not so standard at all, and concludes,
“Just as Betzalel followed Hashem’s precise guidelines for the creation of
the Mishkan and still found room for creative expression by doing so with
his own unique intentions and insights, so too our Sages established the
standard wording of the prayers with Divine Inspiration, articulating within
them every feeling we may wish to express. Many times, in the midst of a
difficult situation, we begin the standard prayers with a heavy heart, only
to find a new interpretation of the words which we have recited thousands of
times jump out at us. This newfound understanding, which has been there all
along waiting for us to discover it in our time of need, is perfectly fit to
the sentiments we wish to convey, if we will only open our eyes to see it
and use our Sages’ foresight to express ourselves.” To subscribe to Parsha
Potpourri weekly, email
oalport@optonline.net.
B.
As we conclude Sefer Shemos tomorrow, we recognize that there is a new
beginning next week with Sefer Vayikra. It is a momentous ending of the
Sefer HaGeulah, and the inauguration of the aftermath of Geulah--the Toras
Kohanim--service of Hashem on a higher plane in a Mikdash.
Non-coincidentally, the Daf Yomi will be concluding Mesechta Gittin on
Shabbos and commencing Mesechta Kiddushin on Sunday. We have also just
concluded Adar Rishon and today began Adar Sheni. Most definitely, this
should be a Shabbos of real reflection--what am I concluding--and what will
I be beginning? How will I utilize the opportunity? Will I realize that
when Purim arrives the year will be half over--and that it would truly be an
accomplishment to Improve in Avodas Hashem before the second half of
the Year--with a concrete improvement that I have been meaning to
make --especially in Torah or Tefillah? As we see the great work
product of the Mishkan come to final fruition in Parashas Pekudei--let us
practically and meaningfully take the lesson of its building to a
powerful next step--real and actual growth in Avodas Hashem!
==============================
30 Adar I
TESHUVA BECHOL YOM:
At shekiyah today, we will have completed 6 months of the year
5776(!) Today is an auspicious time for Teshuvah and to be mekabel bli neder
on oneself Teshuva Bechol Yom.
--------------------------------------------
AVEIRAH REPELLANT!
Chazal
(Shabbos 31A) teach that beyond the six questions that a person is asked
when he is brought to heavenly judgment--Yiras Hashem He Otzaro (Yeshaya
33:6)--Yiras Hashem is the ultimate storehouse for one’s Yeshuah. Otzar,
can, of course, also mean treasure. We can use this special phrase--Yiras
Hashem He Otzaro as the actual and direct means to thwart off an attack
by the Yetzer Hara on one’s thought process. Any disconcerting,
non-constructive, negative, or possibly evil thought that enters a person’s
mind may be promptly thwarted when a person catches himself--by reciting the
words Yiras Hashem He Otzaro! Repel that aveirah--so that the
Yetzer Hara cannot accomplish his intended powerful sting--by bringing Yiras
Hashem into your life!
--------------------------------------------
THANK
YOU HASHEM!
Each
and every one of our days is replete with Hashgacha Pratis. Meeting this
person, finding the item one needs in front of him, reading something that
truly applies to him at that time, being challenged with something that he
didn’t succeed in last time…. There may be many times when a person may not
realize the Hashgacha. However, when he does--he should express it with a
term like: “Thank You Hashem!” or “Hashgacha Pratis” or “Tov
Hashem LaKol”…. The Ba’alei Mussar explain that the more Hashgacha
Pratis one appreciates--the more he will see!
--------------------------------------------
HAPARTEMIM:
We are now two weeks away from Purim. Rather than once again waiting until
the last minute, we should review the Megillah now with the simple view of
identifying the words that we do not understand--and learning their meaning,
so that when the Megillah is read, we will have a fuller appreciation of its
hallowed words. Remember--the Megillah is one of the Sifrei Tanach, and was
written B’Ruach HaKodesh. Hakhel Note: We can get you started with a first
word--Hapartemim (Megillas Esther 1:3).
--------------------------------------------
GETTING READY FOR MISHLOACH MANOS!
Many
who want to present a high-end Mishloach Manos will give the Mishloach Manos
on an item which requires tevilah (such as a tray, dish and the like). There
is an important machlokes haposkim regarding when tevilah should be
performed on the gift item. HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky, Shlita, holds that
before
one gives the item to his friend, he should be tovel the item with a
bracha. On the other hand, HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl (in
Halichos Shlomo), rules that one cannot tovel the kli
before giving it away, and that the Minchas Yitzchak and HaRav Wosner,
Z’tl (Kovetz M’Beis Levi), similarly rule that it should not
be toiveled prior to it being given--and that instead one must be
careful to indicate on the tray, dish, etc. that it has not been toiveled
when it is given. HaRav Shternbuch, Shlita (Teshuvos V’Hanhagos),
writes that if the person buying the tray uses it a bit first, then
toiveling it before giving it away would be appropriate, and this would
resolve the issue. Accordingly, it is imperative that one consult with his
Rav or Posek regarding what should be done if he intends to give a new
kli that otherwise requires tevilah to someone (of course,
whether as Mishloach Manos or otherwise).
-------------------------------------------
A
PURIM MOMENT:
Chazal
(Megillah 12B) teach that because Vashti made Jewish girls perform work for
her without clothing, she was middah k’negged middah called to come
to Achashveirosh’s feast without clothing as well. In the words of Chazal:
“Shebemiddah She’adam Moded Bah Modedin Lo--as a person acts to
others, so does the Beis Din Shel Ma’alah act to him.” If this principle
applies even in the world at large and even to a marsha’as like
Vashti--all the more so must we appreciate how it applies to us in our lives
on a daily basis. Purim reminds us that it is not only just and proper to
have Middos Tovos--it is also the most clear and logical choice!
-------------------------------------------
THE HALACHOS OF LEFTIES:
B’EH, we continue our series on special Halachos for left-handed people,
excerpted from the Sefer Yad Eliezer: A Collection of Various Halachos,
Mitzvos and Minhagim Pertinent to Left-Handers, by Rabbi Paysach J.
Krohn, Shlita. As always, one should consult with his Rav or Posek regarding
his personal circumstances:
PART 2
1. Both right-handers and left-handers put on their right shoe first, but
there is a difference with regarding to tying their laces. The right-hander
should tie his left shoe first, whereas the left-hander ties his right shoe
first.
2. When removing shoes, the right-hander unties his right shoe first, and
then unties his left shoe. However, he takes off his left shoe first and
then removes his right shoe. The left hander unties his left shoe first and
then unties his right shoe. However, he too, removes his left shoe first and
then removes his right shoe (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 2:5, Mishna Berurah
seif katan 8). Hakhel Note: It is a matter of getting used to doing the
right thing--we are all familiar with the story of the person who did not
intermarry because he realized that a Jew is guided even as to how one ties
and unties his shoelaces.
3. HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, rules that both a right-handed and
left-handed person should begin cutting his nails on the left hand first.
-------------------------------------------
SHEMIRAS HALASHON GEMS:
The following gems are excerpted from the explanatory notes contained in the
Dirshu Edition of the Sefer Chofetz Chaim:
1.
HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, rules that it is assur to ask a person whom you
know has sinah or kinah to another to ask him information
about that person. This is so even if there is no other person to obtain
this information from (such as why a couple had gotten divorced, or why a
shidduch broke up)--with the only exception being if one is certain that the
speaker will not relay the requested information out of hatred, anger or
jealousy at the time. If one asks the question(s) without being certain--he
is over Lifnei Iver, and one should realize in any event that the
response may be an inaccurate or unreliable one. (p. 291, note 76)
2. If
one speaks Lashon Hara but the listener did not hear it (there was a noise
at the time, or the recipient was hard of hearing), one still needs Kapparah
for it is analogous to the situation where one intended to eat chazir and
ended up eating Kosher--which requires Kapparah. (p. 295, note 80)
3. It
is not permissible to speak negatively of another even if the other person
allows it, if the intent of the speaker is to put down that person. This is
true even if the matter is publicly known and would otherwise be
permissible. When a person is permitted to speak l’toeles--it must
only be for a beneficial purpose. (ibid., note 82)
-------------------------------------------
IMPORTANT TEFILLAH POINTERS:
1. The
Mishna Berurah brings from the Eliya Rabba in the name of the
Kitzur Shelah that a segulah to remove foreign thoughts from a person
during davening is (before Pesukei D’Zimra) to pass his right hand over his
forehead three times and recite the Pasuk (Tehillim 51:12) “Lev Tahor
Berah Li Elokim V’Ruach Nachon Chadeish Bekirbi”. Additionally, if one
realizes in the middle of davening (such as Shemone Esrei) that foreign
thoughts are entering his mind, he should stop for a moment, pass his right
hand over his forehead and think this Pasuk. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim
98:1, seif katan 2, and Dirshu Edition note 8)
2.
When one davens, it should be with a feeling of supplication and need--as a
poor person standing by the door sincerely and respectfully asking for a
gift. One should especially place upon his heart that there is no creation,
angel, mazel, or anything else that fulfill one’s request other than the
Ribono Shel Olam (ibid., Mishna Berurah, seif katan 8)
3. If
one specifically needs to daven to Hashem for Parnassah or relating to a
sickness, the Eishel Avrohom in the name of the Sefer Chassidim
teaches that when reciting Shemone Esrei one should not only place Kavannah
on the item or two that is more urgent to him--but should instead recite all
of the requests in Shemone Esrei with sincerity!
==========================
29 Adar I
INQUIRY OF THE WEEK:
In Birkas HaChodesh last Shabbos, we ended the Tefillah of Yehi Ratzon with
the words Amen Selah. This term raises several questions: (1) Why is
each individual answering Amen Selah to his own Tefillah? (2) What
does the word Selah mean here, and why is it joined to the term
Amen in this unique instance? (3) When answering to the Chazan’s
repetition of the Yehi Ratzon--what does one answer--Amen or Amen Selah? (4)
If one only answers Amen should he not wait until the Chazan recites the
word Selah, but instead recite the Amen as soon as the Chazan does? Hakhel
Note: We all know how important the Amen response is, and that there are two
separate simanin in Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim (124 and 215) which discusses
how and when to properly answer Amen--teaching us its great significance. It
accordingly behooves us to take this once-monthly opportunity of Amen
Selah--and properly fulfill it! We look forward to your responses.
------------------------------------------------
HARAV YAAKOV KAMENETSKY, Z’TL:
Today, 29 Adar I, is the 30th Yahrzeit of HaRav Yaakov (B’ R’Binyomin)
Kamenetsky, Z’tl. The following is
paraphrased in Praying with Fire, by Rabbi Heshy Kleinman, Shlita,
from Reb Yaakov, The Life and Times of HaGaon Rabbi Yaakov Kamenetsky,
by Yonoson Rosenblum (ArtScroll/Mesorah Publ.), pp. 108-110:
“In
the 1930’s, Rav Yaakov Kamenetsky was Rav of a small, sixty-family community
in a town called Tzitevien. His family lived in dire poverty and he could
not even afford to buy a suit for his son Binyamin for his Bar Mitzvah.
Unable to subsist on the income he earned, Rav Yaakov applied over the
course of several years for rabbinical positions in larger towns. The last
one for which he applied was in Vilkomir, the third largest Jewish community
in Lithuania
. After several interviews, Rav Yaakov was offered the position. He
returned home to tell his wife the great news, and the household erupted in
jubilation; finally their crushing poverty would be alleviated. Three weeks
later, the jubilation turned to grief when Rav Yaakov received news that the
position had gone to someone else. The Rebbetzin cried bitter tears over the
loss of the rabbanus in Vilkomir, recognizing that it virtually ensured that
Rav Yaakov would have to seek some means of support abroad. The failure to
win that position, as well as the others, profoundly affected Rav Yaakov’s
own strong sense of Divine Providence . The successful candidates and
their families eventually fell into the hands of the Nazis. ‘In counseling
people undergoing difficult tests, Rav Yaakov would often point to his own
experience as an example of how that which is perceived at the moment as the
greatest tragedy may, with the passage of time, be revealed to be the
greatest salvation.’”
------------------------------------------------
YOM
KIPPUR KOTON:
We
provide the following notes relating to Erev Rosh Chodesh from the Sefer
Tefillas Yom Kippur Koton, with b’urim of HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita,
compiled by Rav Tzvi Yabrov, Shlita:
1. The
Shelah HaKadosh teaches that since Rosh Chodesh is a Zeman Kappara
one should see to it that he does complete Teshuvah with a Lev Shaleim--rectifying
any monetary, physical or emotional matters that need to be rectified.
Through his charata and viduy, and the departure from his bad ways--one
enters the month as a new person! Hakhel Note: Once on Rosh Chodesh that
fell out on Shabbos, HaRav Meir Tzvi Bergman, Shlita, went to see his father
in-law, HaRav Schach, Z’tl. HaRav Schach, who was deeply engrossed in
thought, motioned to Rav Bergman and said: “Not now--today is Rosh Chodesh
and one should perform a Cheshbon Hanefesh. As we say in Mussaf--it
is a Zeman Kaparah Lechol Toldosom.” HaRav Schach’s grandson who was
present asked HaRav Schach: “Does one conduct himself in this way even when
Rosh Chodesh falls out on Shabbos?” HaRav Schach responded--”Yes, even on
Shabbos!” (see Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 288, Taz seif katan 2)
2.
Hashem gives us the opportunity for Kappara every month--so that our sins do
not accumulate. In our Tefillos during the course of the month, we generally
ask only for selicha or mechila--it is only on Yom Kippur and Rosh Chodesh
that we use the language of Kappara--for just as Yom Kippur effects Kappara
for the whole year, Rosh Chodesh effects Kappara for the previous month!
3. In
the Siddur HaRosh M’Garmeiza, it is written that because Hashem sits
in judgment every Rosh Chodesh, we ask for the Geulah. Indeed, although
Chazal (Pesochim 13A) teach that Eliyahu HaNavi will not come on Erev
Shabbos or Erev Yom Tov because people are busy--Eliyahu HaNavi could very
well come on Rosh Chodesh (tomorrow!) as, once again, it is a time of
Kappara for all. Hakhel Note: As we have noted in the past, HaRav Shlomo
Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl, writes that when the Moshiach comes we will recite
four brachos: (i) Baruch Chacham Harazim (over the 600,000 that will
be present); (ii) Shechalak Meichachmaso LiReiav (over the Gadol
HaDor); (iii) Shechalak MiKevodo LiReiav (over the king); and (iv)
Shehechiyanu (over reaching this time). HaRav Kanievsky adds that at the
time of Techiyas HaMeisim we will also make the bracha of Mechayei
HaMeisim. HaRav Kanievsky explains that the reason we do not expressly
daven for Techiyas HaMeisim in our regular Tefillos for the Geulah is
because it will take place forty years after the Geulah--and we pray for the
Geulah to first begin as soon as possible!
------------------------------------------------
END OF ADAR I NOTES:
1. Kol HaNeshama. Remember to have especial Kavannah when reciting
the phrase Kol HaNeshama Tehallel Kah Halleukah in Shacharis for the
short remainder of the month. Next month--Adar II--we will be emphasizing
this Pasuk again a second time--as it is the 13th and final
phrase in the concluding Chapter of Tehillim, Chapter 150--representing the
13th month!
2. Extras. We are being blessed with an extra month, so that there
will be seven months left to the year. This importantly means that we have
more than one-half of the year left to straighten matters out. What we
should in fact realize is that Hashem is always blessing us with extras.
The month of Adar II just highlights this for us in a very special way. The
Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 207:1, seif katan 5), in
explaining the bracha of Borei Nefashos, teaches that the term
Vechesronam refers to all of the necessities that Hashem supplies us
with, and Ahl Kol Mah Shebarah LeHachayos directs us towards all of
the extras that Hashem bestows upon us. Each day we have the opportunity to
thank Hashem--and not overlook--all those beyond-necessities that He
supplies us with! If we can focus on this every time we recite Borei
Nefashos--it will be like experiencing the joy of Adar II every day of the
year!
3. Help Your Community. In just over two weeks we will be celebrating
Purim. We urge you to take part in establishing or giving special chizuk to
Yeshivas Mordechai HaTzaddik in your Shul or community.
Yeshivas
Mordechai HaTzaddik,
Torah study in Shul on Purim day, has hundreds of branches worldwide,
with tens of thousands participating. If your Shul does not yet
participate in this noble project (Torah study on such a busy day--what a
Zechus!), please contact Avos U’Banim (contact information below) to
learn how you can join. Most certainly, it is a special merit to contribute
towards the prizes given to the children for learning on this day! Avos
U’Banim even supplies Shuls with a prize for every young man that attends at
a significantly reduced cost. For more information please contact Avos
U’Banim’s US director, Rabbi Yosef Tenenbaum at
1-845-798-6637, or contact Avos U’Banim by e-mail at
avotusa@kewnet.com
------------------------------------------------
THE HALACHOS OF LEFTIES:
B’EH, we will begin a new series on special Halachos for left-handed people,
excerpted from the Sefer Yad Eliezer: A collection of various Halachos,
Mitzvos and minhagim pertinent to left-handers, by Rabbi Paysach J.
Krohn, Shlita. As always, one should consult with his Rav or Posek regarding
his personal circumstances:
PART 1
1. When making a bracha, the left-hander holds the food in his left hand.
The same is true when a left hander is holding any Devar Mitzvah that
he is about to utilize so that he would hold any Kos Shel Bracha
(even if he does not personally drink from it) in his left hand, the besamim
at Havdalah in his left hand, etc.
2. At the completion of Shemone Esrei the left hander should begin taking
his three steps backward with his right foot, as he should begin to retreat
with his weaker foot to show that it is not pleasant for him to part with
the Presence of Hashem.
3. From the Teshuvos Maharam of Mintz (109) it would seem that a left-handed
Chosson should give the ring to his Kallah with his left hand, and that a
left-handed Kallah should receive the ring on her left index finger.
------------------------------------------------
A PURIM MOMENT:
Rabbi Eliyahu Schneider, Shlita, points out that when Haman HaRasha was
advised by Achashveirosh that Esther invited only the king and him to her
special Mishteh, Haman walked out “Sameiach V’Tov Lev--joyful and
exuberant”. (Megillas Esther 5:9) The term Sameiach V’Tov Lev
eerily reminds us of the words of the Tochacha in which we are told that
the punishment described there comes upon us because we did not serve Hashem
B’Simcha V’Tuv Leivav. (28:47) Why was Haman so happy? Rabbi
Schneider explains it was because Haman felt that he was realizing his
personal potential--in his case thinking that he was a world leader. We
should take the middah k’neged middah lesson--and instead of
Haman--each one of us should be Sameiach V’Tov Lev in his personal
and distinctive role in K’lal Yisrael--and be especially happy in his
exclusive and unique Avodas Hashem! Let Sameiach V’Tov Lev be a
special theme for you over the coming month!
==========================
28 Adar I
APPROACHING SPRINGTIME!:
As we approach the Spring season, many more car windows are opened by cars
passing by you as you walk or drive. We remind our readers to respect the
rights of others, and to avoid Shemiras HaEinayim issues, by not looking
into another’s car for no reason other than curiosity or allowing the eyes
to wander. The ears are also a very important organ, however. For those
who live in urban areas, there is the danger of the horrific nivul peh
of Rap and other ‘music’ entering your brain through the two ears. If one
hears the unsoundly beat coming in his direction, he can do what he
can--close his window, distance himself, and/or plug his ears-- until the
danger passes. Of course, you would be an oness--as this is forced
upon you--but the fact remains that by entering your brain the ghastly words
have become a part of your life. The same would, of course, be true in
avoiding walking near two unsavory or even plain characters having a
conversation--for in just those few seconds that you are in their
proximity--the chances are close to 100% you will hear something that you
yourself would not and could not say (See Sha’arei Teshuva III:228).
Keeping your ears free and your mind clear--certainly an overriding
obligation--really a pristine privilege --of a Torah Jew.
--------------------------------------------
A TIME FOR POLITICS:
The American people are now besieged by polls, private information,
so-called facts and opinions, slandering, and all kinds of other
irrelevancies relating to politics and politicians. In fact, when one
glances at the news--and notices that this takes up a great part of it, one
breathes a sigh of relief. However, the humorous and entertaining element of
politics cannot justify a person who is not otherwise in a politically
responsible position (i.e., who could do something with the information and
opinions) to spend real time--his most precious commodity--debating,
conversing or offering his opinion about this candidate or that. What
purpose does it serve--to demonstrate that one doesn’t adequately value his
time or have ‘anything better’ to do with it? The heat of the races will
become hotter and more intense--now is the time for the average responsible
resident of the Diaspora to back off of all the nonsense--instead, (i)
voting responsibly when the time comes based upon the information given to
him by those whose knowledge goes beyond the pageantry, and (ii) regaling in
the fact that it is all puppetry B’Yad Hashem--with our Tefillos for
geulah v’yeshua being infinitely more important than their espousal
of opinion!
------------------------------------------------
YOUR TZIBBUR:
Rabbi Eli Mansour, Shlita teaches that the word ‘Tzibbur’ is an acronym for
Tzadikim, Bainonim, U’Reshaim.
We are a people together and united. Moreover, the source of ten people
serving as a Minyan is the Meraglim--if that group constitute a Minyan
together--imagine what ten Jews sincerely praying, learning, or doing a
Chesed together can incredibly accomplish!
-------------------------------
ARE YOU OFFENDED?
After sending an email which requests or deserves a response, one can easily
be disappointed, discouraged or even hurt by not receiving a prompt
response--or any response at all. After all, there are so many means at
another’s disposal to respond no matter what the time of day or location of
the recipient --computer, laptop, tablets, one (or more) phones--’couldn’t
he take the time or have the decency to take ten seconds and answer?!’ The
challenge becomes a wonderful modern day example of Dan L’Chaf Zechus--recognizing
that one’s friend or colleague had a learning or work priority, a pressing
commitment, was taking an hour off from technology (see next note), or
better yet--simply forgot. One’s worst possible reaction is insult or hurt.
With a better understanding of the action or inaction of others--they too
will hopefully have a better understanding of you!
-------------------------------------------------
A DAILY MENTAL EXERCISE: For Men: One time a day,
depart from your home or other location to Shul, and then return from Shul
to your home or other location, without taking out your cellphone for any
reason. Instead, focus on yourself and your day, and how you could improve
it. For Women: One time a day, depart from your home or other
location to work or to the store, and return from there to your home or
other location without taking out your cellphone for any reason. Instead,
focus on yourself and your day, and how you could improve it. Hakhel Note:
Over even a short period of time--you will have demonstrated a wonderful
degree of control and mastery over yourself. Moreover, by reflecting
internally--what a better person you will be!
----------------------------------------------------
A PURIM MOMENT:
Chazal (Megillah 13B) teach that when it comes to K’lal Yisrael,
Hashem will not r’l send a makkah upon them unless and until He has
first created the refuah to heal them. We must recognize that no matter how
serious or dire the matzav of K’lal Yisrael is --whether inside or outside
of Eretz Yisrael--it is ready to be instantly remedied. We have to do our
part--K’lal Yisrael at the time of the Megillah realized it and acted. We
too can do the same--but in our time let us take the necessary steps--well
in advance of any makkah bearing its full brunt upon us as it did then.
The flu shot is enough--we can avoid the flu by taking the necessary action
to bring the refuah to us in the most efficacious and effective manner
possible! TESHUVA B’CHOL YOM--the time is today, the time is now!
------------------------------------------------------
FROM A READER ON HAPPINESS: “HaRav
Noach Weinberg, Z’tl, has a great shiur on happiness in which he provides
simple tasks to increase one’s happiness. This is not an exact summary of
his shiur, but close to it:
Step
#1: Spend 15 minutes or so writing out a list of all the pleasures in your
life. Start with the obvious (eyes, ears, hands, feet) and then keep going
and going until you cannot think of anything else.
Step
#2: Review the list each night and add one new thing each night.
Step
#3: Only for people who want serious joy--try to organize your list in order
of what gives you the most pleasure. This forces you to think deep and
really consider how great your pleasures are (what do I appreciate more, my
eyes or my ears?).
Anyone
who does this and then reviews the list often is certain to increase their
joy....and joy is the fuel that allows us to react well to what Hashem will
have us encounter in our day--and to do all the good we need to do in our
lives!”
----------------------------------------------------------------
GREATER SENSITIVITY:
We have received correspondence from readers expressing the need for greater
sensitivity to the feelings of others in difficult situations. For
instance, rather than pretending as if nothing has happened, an expression
of empathy or feeling, of ‘imo anochi betzara’ might me much more
appreciated than small talk, banter or a joke. Similarly, one must be
sensitive to what makes a person happy and what gives him nachas. A
statement to a Talmid Chochom that his son would make a great author of
novels might be accurate and realistic, but may also turn a spiritual knife
in his heart. In general, relating something to someone that you know they
really won’t appreciate --may be interesting or expressive for you--but may
range between ona’as devorim and torture for them. At the end of this
week’s Parasha, as we conclude Sefer Shemos, we are reminded “Chazak,
Chazak VeNischazek--we are here to be strong and be strengthened. When we
help others to that goal---is when we have accomplished this concluding
message of a complete Sefer of the Torah--allowing us to then begin the
next!
==========================
27 Adar I
VERY
REALISTIC--YOU CAN START TODAY!
If you begin today and study just two (2) Mishnayos a day of Mesechta
Megillah, you will make a Siyum Mishnayos on the Mesechta before Purim.
If you continue on with Mesechta Pesachim, you will make a Siyum on
Mesechta Pesachim for Pesach!
----------------------------
THE
ANTIDOTE--ABSOLUTELY ONLY BENEFICIAL SIDE EFFECTS:
The Sefer Orchos Tzaddikim writes that one of the principles of
Teshuva is “To know the truth, that Teshuva is the Refuah
Sheleima for aveiros”; if a person who is ill doesn’t believe that a
medicine will heal him won’t take it--but if he knows for sure that it will
help, he will take the pill or medication, no matter how difficult it may
be. If a person truly appreciates the truth--the efficacy of Teshuva, and
its enormous healing ability--he should and will be extremely vigilant,
extremely caring and careful--to take Hashem’s Medication--daily!
-------------------------------
IMMEDIATELY BEFORE SHEMONE ESREI!
The Shulchan Aruch itself (Orach Chaim 95:2) writes that before one begins
Shemone Esrei--Yechavein Libo L’Ma’aleh Lashamayim--one should put
his mind in the right place, recognizing that while he may be standing on
physical ground, his thoughts should unequivocallyrecognize that he is
spiritually standing in the heavens themselves!
----------------------------------
A
PURIM MOMENT! Of
all of the evil character traits of Haman HaRasha, who we can envision as
the epitome of the leading Nazi official 75 years ago, Chazal (Megillah 13B)
specifically teach the following: Laika D’Yada Lishna Bisha K’Haman
--there is none that knew how to speak negatively more than Haman. Chazal
then go on to enumerate many instances of how he spoke disdainfully of K’lal
Yisrael, and how he tried to ignite the ire of Achashveirosh against them.
We must take the lesson deeply to heart--a prime characteristic of
those who are the antithesis of K’lal Yisrael is Lishna Bisha. Let us
begin our track to the happy life we referred to last week by taking this
great lesson from Purim--and refining our tongues to speak with positive
purity... especially remembering not to say something if we are unsure if it
should be said!
----------------------------------------
CAN
YOU HELP US IN OUR SEARCH?
Chazal (Shabbos 119B) teach that Kol Ha’oneh Amein Yehei Shemei Rabba
Mevorach Bechol Kocho Korin Lo Gezar Dino. The power of Amein Yehei
Shemei Rabba is so great--if one has Kavanna in its recital he can literally
cause a r’l gezar din against him to be torn up by the Beis Din Shel
Ma’aleh. It is for this reason that many read the words of Amein Yehei
Shemei Rabba from a Siddur in order to especially focus. As we have done in
the past, we provide by the following link
http://tinyurl.com/zmk43jn a comprehensive list of possible Kavannos to
have when reciting these hallowed words. We are now in search of a Shiur
(audio or video) which provides practical guidance and advice as to most
effectively maximize each and every opportunity to recite of Amein Yehei
Shemei Rabba. We would greatly appreciate your letting us know--hakhelusa@gmail.com.
----------------------------------------------
MAN
DOES NOT LIVE BY CELLPHONE ALONE:
Consider--”To what degree is the cellphone an absolutely integral part of my
daily life, and what does it supersede that it shouldn’t? How can I change
that”?
------------------------------------------------------
THE
TORAH JEW AND THE KAISER ROLL:
Rabbi
Yisroel Reisman, Shlita, told of the hanhaga of girls in his mother’s high
school class. A Kaiser roll can be split into four equal pieces. Each day
at lunch the girls would cut and place the four pieces of their Kaiser roll
into the middle of the table, so that they would ‘pool’ their lunch--and
instead of only one filling--have pieces of different fillings--tuna, egg
salad and the like. The wonderful part of the story is that while each girl
had to put in all four pieces of the roll--but take out only three--so that
the girl who forgot lunch, or whose parents could not afford it would not go
hungry.
Hakhel
Note: We are descendents of geniuses in chesed--we must continue to be as
innovative and resourceful even in this ‘modern’ world and think of ways we
can use that which is at our disposal to help others privately and
successfully!
---------------------------------------------------------------
NOT
GOLD:
Rabbeinu Bachaya explains why the names of the Shevatim were not written
directly on a solid gold base but instead were placed upon the precious
stones embedded in the gold. Gold goes up in value in accordance with its
weight--one ounce has a certain price, two ounces cost twice that price, and
so on. This is not so with gems--in which the larger and more refined gem
can increase in value many times over. So too it is with the Torah--the
merit of continued study and the merit of the study of a chavrusa or of a
Rabbim--is so much more and greater than a mathematical proportion. We are
way beyond the gold!
Hakhel
Note One:
The
Chofetz Chaim brings in the name of the Midrash (Vayikrah Rabba 25:1) that
even if one was r’l chayav misa bidei shomayim, his life could
be spared if instead of learning one daf as he did in the past, he learned
two, or instead of learning one perek of Mishnayos a day, he instead learned
two. How could it be that just by doubling his degree of study, one could
increase his merits to the degree of saving his life. This could be readily
explained if we recognize that the Torah is valued in a way much differently
than precious gold--it is our precious jewel!
Hakhel
Note Two:
Chazal
(Horios 13B) list items which cause one to forget one’s learning, and items
which assist one to remember one’s learning. One of the items that causes
one to forget one’s learning is when one is ‘HaRagil B’Zaisim (one
who is used to eat olives)’, and one that has a positive effect on
learning is when one is ‘HaRagil B’Shemen Zayis(one who is used to
using olive oil)’. HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, points out that
the Torah’s admonition of “Rak Hishamer Lecha U’Shemor Nafshecha Me’od
Pen Tishkach--only beware for yourself lest you forget...” (Devarim
4:9), may very well apply to one who is lax in this area and acts without
concern regarding items which cause one to forget their learning. He
recalls that the Steipeler, Z’tl, would basically not eat olives, because he
was unsure as to what the standard was of ‘Regilus’--one who is ‘used
to’ consuming olives. When we find things in Chazal (and in Halacha) which
are Kashe LeShichecha (cause a person to forget), we should take them
quite seriously--as the precious pearls of Torah that we do possess is at
the epitome of our accomplishments--which we must do our utmost to retain!
---------------------------------------------------------------
THE
POWER OF MECHILA:
The famous words of the Chovos HaLevavos (Sha’ar HaKeniya, Chapter 7)
as to one whom Lashon Hara has been spoken against receiving some of the
Mitzvos of the Ba’al Lashon Hara, and the Ba’al Lashon Hara receiving some
of the the aveiros of the person whom he spoke against is quoted by the
Chofetz Chaim in the Sefer Shemiras HaLashon (Sha’ar Hazechira,
Chapter 3). Based upon this teaching, the Maggid Meishorim taught the Beis
Yosef (Parashas Vayakhel) that if a person would appreciate this great gift
that he is receiving--losing aveiros and gaining Mitzvos--he would not feel
bad at all about the Lashon Hara being spoken against him. The question,
however, becomes--what if the Ba’al Lashon Hara does Teshuvah and asks
Mechilah from the person whom he spoke against--does he get back his Mitzvos
and does the person spoken about now lose them? HaRav Aharon Leib Shteinman,
Shlita (Sefer Ayeles HaShachar, Vayikra 19:16) teaches that the one spoken
against does not lose anything at all by forgiving the speaker--for the
zechus of being mochel is worth much more than all of the zechuyos
that he accrued and returned to the speaker by being mochel him! (Sefer
Chofetz Chaim, Dirshu Edition, p. 305-306)
Hakhel
Note: Let us use this tremendous teaching to appreciate the power of Mechila--and
forgive, forgive, and then forgive some more!
==========================
24 Adar I
PARDES
YEHUDA!
The
tzibbur is blessed with a plethora of weekly “parasha sheets” --brief
commentaries on the Parashas HaShavuah, interspersed with related Torah
insights of mussar, halacha, hashkafa etc. The website
parshasheets.com collects over fifty examples of the genre in
English -- surely more than enough for anyone’s weekly study. There is one
special gilyon known as Pardes Yehuda which we wish to bring to our
readers’ attention. There are two editions: one wholly in Yiddish and one
English version. The Pardes “brand” features three or four divrei Torah
along with a “Story of the Week”, often about mofsim associated with
Chassidic gedolim. Many melamdim have found the stories good source material
for Friday classwork. The English writing reflects
a respectable “academic” standard of vocabulary and grammar.
Here
are links to three recent sample editions;
Tetzaveh:
http://bit.ly/1LX4Ljv
Ki
Sisa:
http://bit.ly/1Tbq5tj
Vayakhel:
http://bit.ly/21K0462
To
subscribe to the weekly e-mail distribution, send a request to the editor at
pardesyehuda1@gmail.com .
----------------------------------
RABBI
REISMAN’S NAVI SHIUR:
This
Motza’ei Shabbos Rabbi Reisman’s Navi Shiur will continue as scheduled at
8:30pm at Achiezer Congregation (corner Ocean Parkway and Avenue S), with
the Maggid Shiur this week being Rabbi Eli Reisman, Shlita.
----------------------------------
A
PURIM MOMENT:
Through Achashveirosh’s feast described at the beginning of Megillas Esther,
Chazal (Megillah 12B) provide the great and important difference
between a festive meal of akum, and that of a Torah people: At a Shabbos
Seudah, before commencing to eat and drink, we begin with Divrei Torah
and Divrei Sishbachos, while when akum begin their meal they begin
with words of frivolity and lightheadedness. This is borne out by the seudah
of Achashveirosh--in which the participants began to argue as to the
relative attractiveness of the members of the various nations. Rather than
quashing the trivial and demeaning chatter--Achashveirosh, as the leading
figure there--gets heavily involved and decides to call Vashti into the
party to prove his point! The rest is more than history…. What we can do
this Shabbos and every Shabbos thereafter is to follow Chazal’s
distinguishing rule--and be sure to begin our Shabbos meals the Torah way!
----------------------------------
WE CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:
A. Chazal (Shabbos 118B) teach “If Yisrael would observe two Shabbosos
according to Halacha, they would be redeemed immediately.” In fact, the
Midrash (Shemos Rabbah 25:16), reduces this guarantee to the proper
observance of just one Shabbos.
We can start the process in our own small way with the following suggestion:
In this week’s Parasha (Shemos 35:3), the Torah requires “Do not kindle a
fire wherever you dwell on the day of Shabbos.” Why is fire singled out as
one of the 39 forbidden activities on Shabbos? There is a disagreement
between Rebbi Nosson and Rebbi Yosi on this very point in the Gemara
(Shabbos 70A). The Sheloh HaKadosh and the Akeida write that
the “fire” singled out on Shabbos also refers to the fire of anger and of
raised voices in the home, of anger, disagreement and machlokes, any and all
of which are the antithesis of the Shalom Bayis to be brought into the home
through the Neiros Shabbos.
As in previous years, we therefore urge that THIS SHABBOS--in which the
Parasha specifically instructs us not to “kindle fire in our dwelling
places”--each one of us, bli neder, now accepts upon himself not to
get upset and angry, not to raise his voice, and, instead, to override his
sensitivity, his legitimate feelings and everything else in the way, to
ensure that the Shabbos is and remains peaceful--with the only fire being
relegated to the area under the blech. To some, or perhaps many, of us,
this may take a real and difficult effort, but we will be taking an
important step towards that “just one Shabbos” we so urgently and
desperately require.
If we can achieve the seemingly impossible, and extend this “fire
prohibition” to the hour before Shabbos, we will have additionally
accomplished a level of “Tosefes Shabbos”--adding on to the Shabbos--perhaps
never before imaginable.
Perhaps we can take our Shabbos success with us, and work on the Middah of
‘not kindling a fire’ through the coming week!
B. HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, in the Sefer Ta’amah Dikrah brings
the Midrash (Yalkut Shimoni 408) at the outset of this week’s Parasha, which
teaches that on Shabbos we should gather together the multitudes and teach
them the Halachos of Shabbos. Why is it, HaRav Chaim asks, that this is
particularly true of Hilchos Shabbos? HaRav Chaim answers that one who is
c’v mechalel Shabbos in public is treated l’halacha like an
akum--and it is as if he publicly proclaims c’v that Hashem did
not create the world. Conversely, then, when we gather together as a tzibbur
to study the Halachos of Shabbos--we are publicly proclaiming that Hashem
created the world!
Hakhel Note One:
Learning Hilchos Shabbos, then…is Zecher Lema’aseh Bereishis!
Hakhel Note Two:
A Mechaneich asked HaRav Kanievsky what he should learn on Shabbos if he has
an hour of free time--Gemara or Mishnayos? HaRav Kanievsky responded--Mishna
Berurah--Hilchos Shabbos. Likewise, for one who had mistakenly turned on the
light on Shabbos, he advised him to review Hilchos Shabbos as a tikun.
(Divrei Siach)
C. A family that needed Yeshuos (shidduchim for their children and
offspring for their children who were married) asked HaRav Kanievsky what
they should strengthen themselves in. He responded that they should take in
Shabbos earlier then they previously did. (Divrei Siach)
D. A reader’s response to our question about whether Lashon Hara is more
severe on Shabbos than during the week: “It is a Davar Pashut. A sin
that is done on Shabbos is worse than one done during the weekdays, and a
mitzvah done on Shabbos is greater than one done during the week. The
Chofetz Chaim says any mitzvah done on Shabbos is equivalent to all 613
mitzvos (since Chazal say that Shabbos is equivalent to all the mitzvos).”
E. We provide the following very meaningful teachings relating to Parashas
Shekalim in Galus, excerpted from the Sefer HaToda’ah by Rabbi
Eliyahu Kitov, Z’tl (as translated by Rabbi Nachman Bulman, Z’tl, and
published by Feldheim Publishers as that essential-for-the home-work “The
Book of Our Heritage” ):
“Today, when we no longer have the Beis HaMikdash and we longer bring
sacrifices, the mitzvah of the half-shekel is no longer applicable.
Nevertheless, we still read the portion of the Machatzis HaShekel at the
appropriate time so that the Torah reading might be regarded as if we had
actually fulfilled the mitzvah - -as the Pasuk (Hoshe’ah 14:3) states:
”U’Neshalma Forim Sefaseinu... our words shall take the place of the
animals which we can no longer sacrifice. Another reason that we continue
to read Parashas Shekalim is because we pray that the Beis HaMikdash will
soon be rebuilt, and therefore it is incumbent upon us to be familiar with
the proper manner of fulfilling this mitzvah. This Mitzvah is especially
favored, for it teaches us that we are all equal before Hashem --as we all
participated (and will participate) equally in the Karbanos Tzibbur--the
offering of all communal sacrifices .. There are no rich or poor before
Hashem--we are all beloved. All are close to Him and all of their
sacrifices come before Him pleasantly, bringing atonement for all their
sins.” Hakhel Note: The Half-Shekel that we give on Ta’anis Esther is only
a remembrance of the Mitzvah D’Oraysa--may we speedily merit our
participation in the Machatzis HaShekel of the Bais Hamikdash--we have
plenty of time--as the Machatzis HaShekel is only finally due on Rosh
Chodesh Nissan--more than a month away!”
----------------------------------
POINTS AND POINTERS ON THIS WEEK’S PARASHA, PARASHAS VAYAKHEL:
A. Last week’s Parasha ends with the radiance of Moshe Rabbeinu’s face being
so great, that he had to put a mask on it--and this week’s Parasha begins
with the Mitzvah of Shabbos--what is the connection between these two
Parashios?
B. The Torah teaches that the Badim, the staves, were placed into the Aron
for a particular purpose--”Lasais Es HaAron--to carry the Aron” (Shemos
37:5). Chazal (Sotah 35B) teach, however, that in fact the Aron was not
carried by its bearers, but instead actually carried those very same
apparent bearers. HaRav Nosson Adler, Z’tl, finds that the lesson is
clear--those who support Talmidei Chachomim may appear to be the
supporters--but are in fact and indeed--actually supported by those
who study. Hakhel Note: There is an Olam Hazeh and Olam Haba way to look
at what is actually taking place...since Olam Haba is much, much
longer and indeed everlasting --one should very much adapt the long-term
view! Let us keep this in mind every time that we have the opportunity to
in any manner honor or ‘support’ one who is studying Torah full time!
C. In
the Parasha we find the term Lev mentioned in various ways--Asher
Nisa’o Libo, Kol Nediv Lev, Chacham Lev, U’Lehoros Nasan
BeLibo. It is a time to remind ourselves of the precious words of the
Mesilas Yesharim (end of Chapter 16): “Chazal teach that Rachmana
Liba Ba’i--Hashem wants us to serve Him with our hearts--for it is not
enough for Hashem to see our deeds alone, such as our Ma’aseh Mitzvah.
Rather, it is most important to Him that our hearts be pure to serve Hashem
in truth. The heart is the king of all the other parts of the body and
leads them, as so if the heart is not focused on the service of Hashem, then
the service of the other limbs and organs is not worth anything, for they
will just follow the heart. In fact, this thought is expressed clearly by
Shlomo HaMelech (the wisest of all men) in Mishlei (23:26) “Tena Bini
Libecha Li…my son give me your heart!”
With
this thought in mind, we can well understand why the Pasuk in discussing the
construction of the Mishkan emphasizes the need not only for
the building of the Mishkan--but that our hearts be first dedicated to the
task!
Additional Note: We once again provide the story of the g’vir in
Flatbush who would open his door to all, giving to all with a generous
heart. Once, he sat down for dinner and his wife had prepared a soup for
him. There was a knock on the door, and he got up to answer. His wife
pleaded with him: “I will let him in and he can sit a few moments, at least
eat the soup while it is hot.” He turned to his wife and said: “This is my
opportunity to give something of myself. When I give money--I am simply
distributing that which belongs to Hashem, hopefully in a manner which
Hashem sees fit. Now, however, I have the chance to give up my hot soup for
this person. Let me rejoice in the opportunity!”
D.
The Pasuk teaches regarding Betzalel “U’Lehoros Nassan BeLibo--and
the ability to teach was placed in his heart”. The Mefarshim explain that
with these words we are taught the difference between Lilmod
and LeLameid--to learn and to teach. It is a great level to
learn, and an even greater one to be able to teach. It is for this reason
that we request of Hashem in Ahava Rabba/Ahavas Olam that He please give
us the ability Lilmod U’LeLameid--to learn and to teach.
Everyone really has to be a teacher--chavrusos one to the other, husband and
wife, parent and child. We must therefore be careful to daven daily to
Hashem that He give us the ability not only to learn--but to be a good
teacher as well!
E.
Important Reminder! The Torah records that the people brought donations to
the Mishkan “BaBoker BaBoker” (Shemos 36:3). The Sefas Emes
interprets the repetition of the word ‘Boker’ to mean that the people
brought their gifts early in the morning, and explains that there is special
power in doing something early, or first, in the morning. It is for this
reason, the Sefer Talelei Oros explains that the Vilna Gaon, Z’tl,
would exclaim BeLev Shaleim U’VeSimcha when he arose from bed: “Hareini
MeKabel Alai Ohl Torah HaYom!” Likewise, the Siddur Siach
Yitzchak (Siddur HaGra) notes that in the Bracha of HaMa’avir Sheina
early each morning the first two requests we make following the Yehi Ratzon
are “Shetargileinu BeSorasecha VeDabekeinu BeMitzvosecha--please
accustom us to study Your Torah and attach us to Your commandments”--for the
first efforts, the first requests of the day, have a special status and
bearing. In special fact, the Tefillah presented by the Zohar upon arising
in the morning is “Yehi Ratzon…Sheyehei Libi Nachon U’Masur BeYadi
Shelo Eshkachecha--May it be Your will that I be upright, and in
control of my heart today, so that I don’t forget You.” The Siddur
Siach Yitzchak concludes that when one has a Haschala Tova in the
morning, then “Az Yiheyeh HaKol Tov--everything will be good.”
If we
have not already inculcated the above message into our awakening each
morning--let us seriously consider making this a turning point. As we arise
in the morning and begin to ready ourselves for the day all kinds of new
ideas and reminder bombard us--everything we have to do and even the order
we have to do it in. If we can take those first precious moments and focus
them properly--”Shetargileinu BeSorasecha VeDabikeinu BeMitzvosecha”,
“Sheyiheyeh Libi Nachon U’Masur BeYadi Shelo Eshkachecha”, and the
Gra’s thought B’Lev Shaleim U’VeSimcha to accept upon oneself the
Torah and the Mitzvos--then we have the express assurance of the Siddur
Siach Yitzchak that Az Yiheyeh HaKol Tov!
F.
HaRav Yaakov Kamenetsky, Z’tl, whose Yahrzeit is next week, provides a great
question and a remarkable insight on the Parasha. The Torah goes to great
lengths to describe the Mishkan and its Keilim--both the instructions to
build it, and the actual details as to its construction. We know the Mishkan
was precious to Hashem, and that we gain special insight into the Dor
HaMidbar with all of the detail. However, all of this detail is for a
temporary structure that is supposed to be standing for only a short
while--until the Bais HaMikdash is built. Remember that according to some
Rishonim the Chait HaMeraglim had not yet taken place, so Bnei Yisrael were
due to soon (within weeks or months) enter Eretz Yisrael and build the Bais
HaMikdash shortly thereafter. Thus, the Mishkan was intended to function for
perhaps a year or two (although ultimately it remained standing for 479
years). Yet, we see the detail which the eternal Torah provides for it--and
the enthusiasm, dedication, and effusiveness of the people towards a very
short-term construction. The important and special lesson here is that our
goal must be to accomplish. A Mitzvah may look to the eye as if it is
fleeting--so why put in so much time, such difficult effort, and significant
expense? This is absolutely not an appropriate cheshbon. Our
preparations can, and in many cases should, take longer than the Mitzvah
performance itself--for in reality the Mitzvah lasts for eternity! Time
is a physical concept--and we must transcend it in order to attain our
spiritual goals.
So,
the next time you feel like you are spending so much time--whether it is
trying to figure out what Bracha to make on a particular food or whether you
can eat a particular item, waiting on a long line for a few, “last-minute”
Shabbos items, davening or saying Tehillim for someone who is having surgery
today, or talking with someone on the phone who always seems to need chizuk,
remember…the ‘short-term’ everlasting and eternal Mishkan!
----------------------------------
A FEW
SHORT ADDITIONAL POINTS ON THE PARASHA, CULLED FROM THE SEFER SHIUREI
CHUMASH-- OUTSTANDING THOUGHTS OF HARAV SHLOMO WOLBE, Z’TL, ON SEFER
SHEMOS:
A.
Chazal teach that the Parasha begins with the instruction to keep Shabbos
then discusses the building of the Mishkan--in order to teach us that we do
not work on Shabbos even if it is to build the Mishkan. HaRav Wolbe, Z’tl,
asks: Who would ever think that building the Mishkan would be doche
Shabbos? Would writing a Sefer Torah be doche Shabbos? Quite to the
contrary--when something is doche Shabbos (such as a bris milah on
the eighth day, Karbanos brought in the Beis HaMikdash on Shabbos, or
Pikuach Nefesh situations), Chazal must bring specific pesukim or limudim
which allow Shabbos to be overridden. Based upon this question, HaRav Wolbe
suggests that the Torah is, at the very least, teaching us an important
mussar lesson. That is--one might think that sometimes in order to perform a
Mitzvah one can ‘step-on’ other Mitzvos. It is easy for one to rationalize
performing something which was essentially a ‘Mitzvah HaBa’ah
B’Aveira’. Rebbi Yisroel Salanter warns about this. Indeed, the story is
told of a person who in wrapping himself in his Tallis hit Rebbi Yisroel’s
face with the Tzitzis of the Tallis. Rebbi Yisroel told him--why am I at
fault that you are a Yerei Shomayim? Rebbi Yisroel would
likewise reproach those who would push and not pay proper attention to
others when trying to get closer to listen to a Shiur. So, too, with the
Mishkan--one does not build a home for Hashem’s presence by abrogating the
Shabbos in any way.
B. The
Pasuk teaches: “Kechu Me’itechem Terumah LaHashem Kol Nediv Libo--take
for yourselves a portion for Hashem, everyone whose heart motivates him
shall bring it.” (Shemos 35:5). HaRav Wolbe beautifully explains that the
process of building the Mishkan did not simply entail a building being built
and the Shechina thereupon coming to dwell within it. Rather, everyone who
brought a Terumah brought it Menidvas Libo--meaning that he brought a
part of the Shechina in his heart with it. The Shechina that rested on the
Mishkan--was really the Shechina that rested on the hearts of K’lal Yisrael--which
was now assembled into one, unified holy place!
C. The
Ramban writes that Betzalel constructed the Aron by himself. The Ramban
explains that this is because he was filled with the spirit and wisdom to do
so--it was not a matter of craftsmanship--it was a matter of Ruach Elokim,
Chochma, Tevunah and Da’as. This is a tremendous lesson for us. Greatness is
measured by how much spirit and how much hisbonenus, how much
thought, one puts into what he cares about. When one goes to a doctor, who
quickly checks him and prescribes a medication--one knows that this doctor
is not really an expert. A good doctor will listen well to the symptoms,
think about them, put them together and then decide what is wrong and how to
treat it. The difference between katnus and gadlus--one who is
small and one who is great is in his power of hisbonenus--putting
true spirit and real thinking into what is important!
D.
Upon assembly of the Mishkan, the Pasuk (Shemos 36:13) concludes Vayehi
HaMishkan Echad--and the Mishkan was one. HaRav Wolbe teaches that the
word Echad here does not only mean that it was ‘one’ and not ‘two’,
but also that it was one--that included everything, for everything in it was
unified. Likewise, he concludes, when in Shema we recite the words Hashem
Echad--we not only mean that Hashem is One and not two, but that Hashem
is One and that everything is subsumed and included within Him--everything
comes from Him--and all of the world’s needs and requirements are fulfilled
by Him!
==========================
23 Adar I
QUESTION OF THE DAY:
If one is especially careful with Shemiras HaLashon on Shabbos, or c’v
violates Shemiras HaLashon on Shabbos--is it a greater Mitzvah when
observing or r’l a worse aveirah in violating? What is your source?
------------------------------------------
HOW WILL YOU DEFINE LIFE AS YOU PRACTICED IT TODAY?
Here are two choices: (1) a series of missed opportunities; or (2) a series
of accomplishments.
------------------------------------------
DON’T LET IT SLIP BY-- THE NECESSARY MISHNAYOS:
As we have noted in the past, HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, teaches that
in order to complete Shas, one also has to study the Mishnayos in Seder
Zeraim and Taharos, which have no Gemara and which were left out of the Daf
Yom cycle because ‘they were not on the Daf’. HaRav Chaim accordingly
suggests that one simply learn a Mishna-a-Day, and that he would finish all
of Shas within the Daf Yomi cycle. We received the following listing from a
Daf Yomi Maggid Shiur--there is still plenty of time to learn before the
next Siyum HaShas--start today!
Mishnayos:
598 Zeraim without Berachos
74 Eduyos
108 Avos
916 Taharos without Nidah
1,696
Total Mishnayos to be studied
Hakhel Note: Upon the completion of Mesechta Gittin next week, Daf Yomi will
have completed 1,318 blatt of Shas, leaving 1,393 blatt over 1,393
days to be studied. Accordingly, one need only study 1-2 Mishnayos a day
until the Siyum HaShas in order to complete all of the Mishnayos as well!
------------------------------------------
A GOOD JOKE:
The following is excerpted from the outstanding work Journey to Virtue
by Rabbi Avrohom Ehrman, Shlita (Artscroll):
“Although leitzanus (ridicule and/or cynicism) is strictly
forbidden, legitimate humor can be of great value, such as that which
creates a cheerful and enthusiastic frame of mind desirable for Torah study
and other worthwhile activities. The type of humor which cheers and
encourages others is included in the mitzvah of doing acts of chesed
(kindness). However, jokes that only serve to belittle or are
excessively light-headed are included in the prohibition against
leitzanus. In summary, jokes are an excellent tool to help pass through
life’s travails, provided they are neither at another’s expense, nor at the
expense of one’s own soul.
Rav Beroka was in the marketplace talking with Eliyahu HaNavi, who pointed
out two men as having a place in the World to Come. Rav Beroka engaged them
in conversation to find out what great merit had made them
so worthy. “We are jolly people,” they said, “and when we see people
who are depressed we speak to them and cheer them up. Furthermore, if we
see two individuals engaged in conflict, we try to restore peace through
good cheer.”(Ta’anis 22A)”
------------------------------------------
A
PURIM MOMENT:
The Chofetz Chaim brings the following teaching from Chazal: The reason
that the Torah was written “She’lo KeSidran--not in order” is because
if it would have been given KeSidran everyone studying it would have
had the power of Techiyas HaMeisim. Such is the inherent power of the
Torah. As we move towards the Kimu VeKiblu of Purim, we should recognize
the inherent greatness of Torah as Hashem’s greatest gift to the entire
world, and treat our precious time for Torah Study with a corresponding
degree of appreciation and reverence. Especially in the months of Adar, we
can regale in the thought that the Torah has been given to us as an
inheritance and burst out in song with the words “Ashreinu Ma Tov
Chelkeinu--How Happy we are--and, quite to the contrary of Haman’s wishes,
How Fortunate is Our Lot!”
Additional Note:
The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh Deah 246:18) rules that Talmud Torah is equal to
all of the Mitzvos. Accordingly, one who is in the middle of learning is
not allowed to interrupt his studies to perform a Mitzvah unless there is a
Mitzvah that must be done immediately, and there is no one else who can
properly perform it. In that case, one should interrupt his learning to
perform the Mitzvah, and then, the Shulchan Aruch concludes, “he should
return to his learning” (this is also the language of the Rambam in
Hilchos Talmud Torah). Why is it necessary for the Rambam and
the Shulchan Aruch to add that after one completes the Mitzvah he should
return to his learning--is it not self-evident?? We may suggest that after
one has interrupted his studies to legitimately perform a Mitzvah that no
one else could perform, he may then determine that now is the time to take a
cup of coffee, make that phone call, take care of this thing, speak to that
person....All of this, the Rambam and Shulchan Aruch rule, is inappropriate
and incorrect, for it shows that he was willing to be mevatel for far more
than the Mitzvah. Instead, one should show his high regard for the Torah,
and how serious leaving it even to do a Mitzvah is--by going right back to
learning as soon as the Mitzvah has been completed. Thus, especially
when one has left Torah to take care of a Mitzvah, he should be sure not
to allow himself to be further interrupted with a few additional duties or
tasks, no matter how legitimate they may seem (read: Yetzer Hara hard at
work) by going right back to Torah study--as both the Rambam and the
Shulchan Aruch advise and enjoin.
------------------------------------------
REVERENCE AND YOU!
Would
one have his cellphone on the Oval Office table, if he was in a meeting with
the President of the United States?! In many Kehillos, Rabbanim may have
already prohibited the use of these phones and related electronic devices in
the Shul itself at any time. In those Holy Places where this is not yet the
case, we urge YOU to take an active role in making it happen. The
Chofetz Chaim brings the significant view of Rishonim that the Mitzvas
Asei DeOraysa of “U’Mikdashi Sira’u--and you shall fear My Sanctuary’
applies to our Shuls and Batei Medrashim today. We cannot allow those
uneducated in the meaning of the reverence one should have for a Shul or in
the importance of communicating with Hashem to spoil (really defile) the
sanctity of the Place for us all. Is there anything wrong with going over
to a person who is talking or typing and asking him to do so outside,
because the walls are imbued with Kedusha? Even if they argue that what
they are doing is for a mitzvah overess, explain to them that others
will not understand and will learn to do likewise in any circumstance. The
Torah in this week’s Parasha does not directly and openly refer to iPads,
iPhones, or any less sophisticated instruments--but it does teach us, in the
form and context of a complete, non-digressing Parasha, how important
the Mikdash to Hashem and, therefore, to K’lal Yisrael. Let us really take
action--and, in this zechus, may we literally uplift ourselves from
our Mikdash Me’at to the Third and Final, Permanent and Everlasting Third
Bais Hamikdash...speedily and in OUR days!
------------------------------------------
IMPORTANT TEFILLAH POINTS:
Please
note that one should speak to his Rav or Posek for specific guidance in his
particular facts or circumstances:
1. By
the following link
http://tinyurl.com/jhloyrw, we provide
an excellent descriptive summary of the Halachos of sitting, standing and
passing around someone who is davening Shemone Esrei. The summary was
prepared by The Halacha Hotline of Far Rockaway and the Five Towns under the
leadership of HaRav Binyomin Forst, Shlita. Spread the word… and the link!
2.
When davening, one should not cross his legs, or stretch his legs out in a
manner which indicates a lack of humility. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 95:
Mishna Berurah, seif katan 2)
3.
Before beginning Shemone Esrei, one should picture himself as if he is
standing in the Beis HaMikdash itself, and focus his mind towards the
heavens. In fact, the Bach writes that before one begins Shemone Esrei he
should look through the windows in the Shul or room where he is davening in
order to gain a greater appreciation of who he is and what he is about to
do! (ibid., 95:2, Mishna Berurah seif katan 4)
4. If
one must daven in a public place, it is most imperative that he find a spot
in which he will be the least disturbed. If necessary in order to daven with
Kavannah, it is better to daven sitting down in a more remote location than
to daven standing up where one will be disturbed. (ibid., 94, Mishna Berurah
seif katan 30)
5. If
one is traveling and must daven sitting down (or for any other reason must
daven sitting down), then if at all possible he should stand at least when
reciting the first bracha of Avos. Even if one must recite Shemone Esrei
sitting, he should keep his legs together, and not sit back or lean, and he
should keep his head bowed. Additionally, if it is at all possible to stand
in order to bow during one of the four places of bowing in Shemone Esrei and
when taking three steps back at the end of Shemone Esrei, he should try to
do so at these points. Even if one cannot stand at the points of bowing, he
should bend his head down further in his sitting position at these times. (Shulchan
Aruch Orach Chaim 94:4, 5 and Dirshu Notes 14 and 17)
6. If
one does not know the proper direction to daven to--Yechavein Libo
L’aviv Shebashomayim--he should never forget that he is davening to his
Father in Shomayim! (ibid., 94:3)
==========================
22 Adar I
A PURIM MOMENT:
In Chapter22 of Tehillim, the moving Kepitel recited by Esther HaMalka with
Ruach Hakodesh as she was about to encounter King Achashveirosh, we find
that Esther unusually compares Achashveirosh first to a dog, and then to a
lion--with the following words: “Hatzileini…Meyad Kelev Yechidasi,
Hoshi’eini MePi Aryeh…--Rescue...my essence from the grip of the dog,
save me from the lion’s mouth...” (Tehillim 22, 21:22). Now, we all know
that there is quite a difference between calling someone a dog and referring
to him as a lion. What did Esther mean by making both comparisons?! Rabbi
Label Wulliger, Shlita, provides a fascinating insight. If c’v one
is attacked by a dog, he will take a stick or any other object that he can
get into his hand and immediately begin to use it to fight off the attack.
With a lion, however, there is no defense, and the thought of taking an
object to battle or thwart him in any way would not even enter the most
desperate mind. By referring to Achashveirosh first as a dog, and then as a
lion, Esther was saying that her initial impression was that through her
personal merit she would be able to stave off, counter and hopefully even
defeat the designs and plans of Achashveirosh. However, as she got closer
to the encounter--and the Emes--she realized that these thoughts were
frivolous. She would not be able to fight Achashveirosh in the same
way she would a dog--by attempting to beat him back with a stick. No, he
was a lion, and her only hope, her sole plan, her exclusive
strategy, was a Yeshua from Hashem. Thus, she walked into Achashveirosh in
Hashem’s Hands, and in Hashem’s Hands alone. The Chapter of Tehillim,
however, records her entire thought process to us for eternity. Even if
and when we think that, at least in some small way it may be “Kochi
VeOtzem Yadi--my personal wisdom, acumen, knowledge, relationships,
protectzia, money, or other talents or abilities that may get this done--in
truth everything out there is an aryeh, a lion, and we should and must place
our full faith, trust, and reliance upon Him in all circumstances, in all
events, in all challenges, and at all times.
The world out there is all a lion--but on our side we have its very Creator
to keep it in check and at bay…and like Achashveirosh--ready to become our
best friend and ally!
---------------------------------------------------------
LIVING A HAPPY LIFE!
Earlier this week, we had
posed the following question: “In
last week’s Parasha we learned that one who observes Shabbos is called a
Shomer Shabbos (VeShamru Vnei Yisrael Es HaShabbos), and we know
that the term for guarding one’s speech is Shemiras HaLashon. What is
unique to the concept of Shemira in these two Mitzvos?” Last Erev Shabbos,
we noted that HaRav Shlomo Mandel, Shlita, teaches that the term Shemira
according to the Torah implies preparation and aforethought. Accordingly,
the term Shomer Shabbos includes, as a general rule, being ready ahead of
time to usher the Shabbos in properly. We can similarly understand that the
specific term Shemira in the phrase ‘Shemiras HaLashon’ indicates that one
is prepared and ready to speak properly and justly, in accordance with
Hashem’s wishes and directives. This means inculcating into one’s person
that not only will he not speak in a negative manner about others unless the
Halacha so dictates, but also that a person will be Shomer--guard
himself against doing so by being committed to not saying something when he
is unsure as to whether it should be said. If one knows that he will go
through his day--at home, at work, on the street…wherever he may be, with
this overlying principle--how happy his life will be, for he will be saved
from so many mistakes, so much regret--and r’l innumerable aveiros
from which it is so difficult and sometimes even impossible to do complete
Teshuvah from. In its place--this happy person will be blessed with feeling
good over his control and over his accomplishments, the love of others--and
a quantitatively and qualitatively unfathomable degree of Mitzvos to last
through an unending eternity! What a wonderful daily opportunity--Shemiras
HaLashon!
---------------------------------------------------------
A SIMPLE STRIDE IN TORAH STUDY!
We all try to improve our learning, for, after all, “VeTalmud Torah
KeNeged Kulam--Torah study is equivalent to them all.” As we learn
of the Aron’s construction in this week’s Parasha, we realize that we must
also build ourselves to house the Torah within us. Every individual
knows himself best, and can make progress and strides in his own way.
However, one area which may be particularly frustrating to many in their
Torah growth is their inability to remember where they learned something--e.g.,
where exactly it is in Shulchan Aruch or the Gemara, which commentary said
it, or what the particular language may be. If a person would take but
one item a day that he has learned that day, write down its
source, and try to commit the item and its source to memory whether through
memory association techniques or otherwise (it will obviously require
review), than over the course of a year--he will know more than 350
sources! Each and every day has so much potential inherent within it--if we
merely ‘tap’ on it we can accomplish so much over a month, a year, a
decade...120 years!
---------------------------------------------------------
PRACTICAL REFLECTIONS ON MIDDOS IMPROVEMENT:
“Kol Adam Nimshach BiSvarosav Achar Midosav--every person’s thoughts
directly result from his Middos, from his personal character traits.” Thus,
an Atzel, a languid person’s, ambitions will be in consonance with his
laziness; a hot tempered person’s thoughts will quickly lead him to anger;
and a haughty or arrogant person will view matters from his (of course, the
only!) perspective. Likewise, a person who feels love towards others will
think in a loving way, and a person who is critical and looks down upon
others will understand events in that vein. Therefore, the Orchos
Tzadikim urges that if one truly wants to be an Eved Hashem, he must
first work on eliminating his bad Middos, so that his thoughts and reactions
will be led in the right--rather than the wrong--direction! It would be
appropriate for a person to make a list of the three or four key negative
Middos that adversely affect him, and think of practical ways that
can help him move away from them. By doing so, one is merely not ridding
himself of bad character--but is cleansing his thoughts, thereby improving
and purifying his actions and deeds on an ongoing basis and an everlasting
way!
To make it a bit easier,
we provide the following brief list of possibly negative traits. Identify a
few key ones for yourself, and write down just a few ways in which you can
improve upon each one of them. It is not just a matter of Middos--it is a
matter of the thoughts and the deeds for the rest of your life (moreover,
your eternal life) that will so splendidly benefit! 1. Ga’avah--being
haughty or arrogant; It’s my way or the highway. 2. Azus--being
brazen and shameless; even the Chofetz Chaim felt that a student with too
much of this destructive Middah could be grounds for being expelled from
Yeshiva. 3. Sinah--hating (check to see how often you use the word hate,
despise, detest, abhor, disgust or even dislike). 4. Ka’as--how often do
you feel anger surging and somehow overtaking you? Are you able to ever
control it even if it comes infrequently? Are there some people who you
especially feel it towards, and can this relationship or attitude be
improved in some way? 5. Kinah--he is healthier, richer, smarter, nicer
looking, more successful, more accomplished, more fortunate, more talented,
more...than me. So, now what?? What does his Tachlis HaChaim, his
rewards and punishments, his necessary tikkunim, have to do with
yours? 6. Atzlus--HaRav Shmuel Berenbaum, Z’tl actually once described
this Middah as the source of all bad character traits--for if one does not
appreciate his value and the value of his time and his accomplishments, then
he may just as well say this, do that, etc. Do I arrive on time to Tefillah
and Torah study? How many times have I had to skip some of Pesukei DeZimra
this month because I came late to Shul? Am I too tired to clean up after
myself or pick something up off the floor (especially when ‘no one is
looking’)? Do my excuses always seem like excellent ones? 7. Tzaikanus--stinginess--erring
on the side of paying less when buying something for Shabbos, or when paying
for a Mitzvah, or when giving Tzedakah. 8. Shichecha--negligent
forgetfulness--not writing down what or how much you borrowed, forgetting to
make the call to help someone else out (such as a shidduch call), not
writing down or constantly recalling what you have to improve in... 9.
Chanifus--supporting or acquiescing to improper ways; letting the
inappropriate joke be told; encouraging or complimenting one in a way which
will allow him to justify or continue his behavior; smiling or nodding at
someone because even though you know he is wrong, you fear what he can do to
you. 10 Sheker--falseness. Even little openings of its darkness can have
devastating results. “Just tell him I’m not in the office” amounts to two
people not telling the actual truth--the boss and the employee. Avoiding
all shades of lying. The Sefer Orchos Tzaddikim writes that if one’s
thoughts are always true, then even his dreams and visions in the night will
be true--and he will even be able to understand events like angels. In Kelm,
where the Middah of Emes was a great hallmark, they placed great
significance and weight on their own dreams--we can now understand why!
As we move towards the close of this month of Simcha towards the next month
of Simcha--we can increase and develop, expand and enhance our personal
joy--through the pleasure and happiness, through the elation--of our own
personal accomplishment! What a great time--and a great day--to begin! Do
you need a piece of paper? Please start your great new Simcha--today!!
==========================
21 Adar I
LEARN FROM HIS TEACHINGS!
Today, is the Yahrzeit of HaRav Elimelech (B’R’ Elazar Lipman)--the famed
Noam Elimelech M’Lizhinsk. As many were unable to daven at his Kever
today--we still have the opportunity to learn from his great teachings. The
Tzetel Koton would be a wonderful place to start!
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FROM THINK HASHEM DAILY!
“The attitude of one who fears Hashem
is to be just as scrupulous
with a small Mitzvah as a big one.
because no matter the level of the Mitzvah,
they are all the same in the sense
that they are given by Hashem.”
Rabeinu Yonah Sharay Teshuvah (3:23)
To subscribe to Think Hashem Daily, email: thinkhashem@ateresshimon.org
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THE WISE MAN’S EYES:
Chazal teach that ‘Chochom Einav B’rosho--the wise man’s eyes are in
his head.” Of course, as we all know--everyone’s eyes are in their head. It
is the wise man who realizes that his eyes are not in his heart--but in his
head--for a reason! The next time one realizes he is looking at something he
should not--if he is wise--he will remember where Hashem placed his
eyes!
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LOOK AND LOOK AGAIN!
Rabban Gamliel Rabanovich, Shlita, teaches, “If one looks at his food while
he is eating it--why would one not look at the words of one’s brachos in his
brachos card, siddur or bentscher when thanking Hashem for it?!”
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A MOMENT OF REFLECTION:
After a tasty meal, one realizes he has overeaten. What does he do in order
to ensure that it does not happen again (at least not so readily)?
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ANOTHER MOMENT OF REFLECTION:
The following extremely meaningful quote is excerpted from Questions You
Thought We Were Afraid You’d Ask, by R’ Moshe Speiser (Targum Press):
“The concept of forever is amazing, if one thinks about it. If one would
receive a penny a day, forever, there would not be enough money in the world
to cover it. If every win and loss [against the Yetzer] affects us for
eternity, it sounds like there is an awful lot at stake here!
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A SIGN
OF THINGS TO COME!
On the 21st of Adar, Daryavesh, the son of Esther HaMalka and Achashveirosh,
allowed the Jews to continue the building of the Second Bais HaMikdash--which
had been halted in Achashveirosh’s time! May it be a sign of things to come
for the Third Bais Hamikdash and our final Geulah!
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A PURIM MOMENT:
Rabbi
Zev Leff, Shlita, points out that Purim is unique in that the Holiday is
celebrated by some Jews on Purim--and other Jews on Shushan Purim. If Purim
is a day in which we emphasize our unity--then shouldn’t we be on the exact
same page?! That is the point of Purim--to teach us that even if we are not
doing the same thing--that is fine--as long as we are all doing what the
Ribbono Shel Olam wants of us! [Rabbi Ozer Alport, Shlita]
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MORE
THOUGHTS ON TEFILLAH:
A. The Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chaim 92:4) definitively rules that one must
wash his hands with water before Tefillah. The Mishna Berurah (ibid., seif
katan 13) notes that this is true not only before Shacharis, but before
Mincha and Ma’ariv as well. Indeed, the Mishna Berurah writes that according
to the Rambam one is not yotzei Tefillah if he has not washed his
hands prior to davening. If one does not have water, depending upon the
circumstances, one can use some other item in order to clean his hands (see
Shulchan Aruch and Mishna Berurah there for specifics). Interestingly, the
Shulchan Aruch also writes (ibid., 98:4) that our Tefillah takes the place
of bringing a Korban, and goes on to explain step-by-step how this is so--
and we know that before a Kohen was permitted to begin Avodah, he would have
to wash with the Kiyor (as taught in last week’s Parasha). We note that it
appears that there is no basis for distinction between men and women in the
requirement to wash before Tefillah. Although one may not in the past have
been very careful with this Halacha, and may not see others particularly
knowledgeable of it, by observing the Halacha we obtain the additional
benefit of properly preparing ourselves to daven--in a similar way to the
Kohanim before they began their special act of Avodah in the Beis HaMikdash
itself!
B. The
Aruch HaShulchan (93:4) writes that one should take a moment before
beginning any Tefillah to engage in ‘Shesikah Vehisbonenus BeLibo”--to
understand before Whom he is preparing to daven. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim
93, Dirshu Note 1)
C. Chazal teach that “Ain Omdin LeHispallel Elah Mitoch Koved Rosh.”
We usually understand this to mean that one should only begin to pray when
in a mode of seriousness and reverence. Rabbi Eli Mansour, Shlita,
insightfully added that the Rosh, the head, is also a reference to Hashem,
our Head, and that the Koved, or weightiness, is a reference to the severity
and pain of the Shechina in Galus. As we get ready to pray, we should
recognize that the severity of the Shechina in Galus is the most serious,
and the source of, all of our problems today. Hashem’s pain, and the
pain of all around us, may be rectified by the sincere prayer I am about to
attempt! Chazal instruction of Ain Omdin, then, very much
teaches us not only how we should pray, but what we should pray
for!
D. The
Sefer Chassidim (18) teaches that one must forego the attitude or
appearance of fatigue or tiredness when davening, as it is disrespectful
(ibid., Dirshu Note 6).
E. The
Seder HaYom writes that if it is possible one should try to be one of
the last ten in Shul so that he is not the cause of the Shechina’s departure
when the tenth man leaves the Beis Haknesses (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim
93:1, Dirshu Note 1) Hakhel Note: Even if one cannot accomplish this all the
time or even most of the time--he should have it in mind to accomplish it
whenever he can--or at least once a week!
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TODAY’S KETORES:
In this week’s Parasha, we learn of the construction of the Mizbe’ach
HaKetores (Shemos 37:25), upon which the Ketores was brought, which Chazal
teach brought forgiveness for the private sin of Lashon Hara. What can we
do in our day when we cannot bring the Ketores? The Chofetz Chaim, of course
teaches, that the study of the laws of Lashon Hara assist one in staving off
Lashon Hara--for a person more fully appreciates and understands what speech
is permitted, and what speech is not. It is extremely important to note,
however, that the Chofetz Chaim also composed a Tefillah (there are
short and long versions of it) for one to recite, in which one prays for
Hashem’s assistance to be saved from improper speech. As in the past, we
provide the Tefillah by the following links
Tefillah for Shmiros HaLahson -
http://tinyurl.com/cz4b2gw
Abridged version -
http://tinyurl.com/pvtdjsd
There
are so many situations, circumstances and temptations in our lives--that
even those who study the laws still need the extra Tefillah that they be
freed of those who are not careful in this regard, and of those tempting,
instinctive and even unclear situations. Bringing the Ketores was part
of the Avodah every day; we too should be sure to make our Tefillah to be
saved from Lashon Hara an important part of our own daily Avodah as well!
A few
additional important points on Shemiras HaLashon:
1.
HaRav Shmuel Hominer, Z’tl, writes that it is appropriate before reciting
the Parashas HaKetores in the morning to have Hirhurei Teshuvah over
the sin of Lashon Hara and Rechilus. (Sefer Chofetz Chaim, Dirshu
Edition, p. 233, Note 22)
2.
Even if one does not intend to hurt another, and is only joking around in a
way which results in poking fun at another, it is Lashon Hara (Chofetz Chaim
3:3). On the other hand, even if one has publicly given permission to others
to speak about him, it is still forbidden to speak badly about him if the
speaker’s intent is to put him down or embarrass him. (ibid., p. 237, Note
31) Hakhel Note: The lesson--unless Halachically required--don’t
speak badly of another--speak well of him!
3. One
of the leading causes of Lashon Hara is not judging a person favorably.
The Yesod V’Shoresh Ha’avoda (1:7) importantly notes that one can
fulfill the Mitzvah of thinking favorably of others at all times and in all
places--even in places otherwise considered to be unclean. Hakhel Note: What
great ability there is to always practice! (ibid., p. 239, Note 36)
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