Hakhel

Hakhel Email Community Awareness Bulletin

SEPTEMBER 2017 DAILY EMAIL ARCHIVE

9 Tishrei

FROM A READER: A reader provided us with the Parnassah Tefillah of HaRav Avrohom Danzig, Z’tl, the Ba’al Chayei Adam http://tinyurl.com/y9r44hd5

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THE POWER OF BIRKAS KOHANIM ON YOM KIPPUR: Please see the following link http://tinyurl.com/y9ngzkvq, which speaks for itself as to HaRav Eliyahu Lopian’s teaching on Birkas Kohanim--extremely practical for Yom Kippur:

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EIS RATZON: HaRav Mattiyahu Salomon, Shlita, brings a special Tefillah from the Chida to be recited in an Eis Ratzon--to allow all further Tefillos on a daily basis to be connected to the Eis Ratzon. By the following linkhttp://tinyurl.com/yd6eurj2 we provide the amazing actual text of HaRav Salomon’s teaching from his Sefer Matnas Chaim. Remember--Yom Kippur is an Eis Ratzon!

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YOM KIPPUR SHOE ALERT: All Toms shoes with the exception of their vegan line are made with leather insoles (Flatbush Jewish Journal).

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A TASK FOR TODAY! HaRav Pam would always emphasize the need for one to write his Kabbalos in a notebook, and check up upon them as he moves through the year. As an essential first step today, one should buy a notebook, or establish the method in which he will keep a record of his Kabbalos and his successes on a day-to-day basis.

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KNOCKING ON THE DOOR! In the Yom Kippur davening, we will recite, “K’Dalim U’Chrashim Dafaknu Dilasecha.” This means that we should view ourselves before Hashem as, r’l, a poor person knocking on someone’s door and asking for funds that he needs to survive. This is what we are doing as we stand before Hashem. Fortunately, though, we are blessed with Someone who will answer the door and receive us warmly and with love.

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THE IKAR OF VIDUI: When we recite the words in Selichos and on Yom Kippur of “Aval Anachnu VaAvoseinu Chatanu–but we and our forefathers have sinned,” we must remember that they are actually part of the Vidui itself. In fact, the Rambam in Hilchos Teshuva (2:8) calls these words the “Ikar” of Vidui. Accordingly, it would appear that one should be slightly bowed over as he recites these words, as in the remainder of the Vidui.

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LET US START THINKING!: The Sefer Leket Reshimos brings the following teachings of HaRav Nosson Wachtfogel, Z’tl, relating to Yom Kippur and Teshuvah:

1. The entire day of Yom Kippur is an experience of Lifnei Hashem--standing in front of the Borei Olam. One should arein tracht--think deeply into what this opportunity and privilege really is. To begin with, one must realize that he has an abundance of Siyata Dishmaya, that his heart is pure, and that he should make great effort to focus on his Tefillos--for hatzlacha in the coming year!

2. Because Yom Kippur is a day of Kedusha and Tahara--all that one does becomes Kadosh and Tahor as well!

3. The reason that one who is Ma’avir Ahl Middosav is forgiven for his sins is because an individual cannot stand up to Din--but as part of community, he is able to. When one is Ma’avir Ahl Middosav, he demonstrates that he is not only concerned with himself--but with others as well--and is accordingly part of the community!

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THE 5778 YOM KIPPUR INITIATIVE: By the following link-- http://tinyurl.com/y79ytcto we provide the 5778 V’Ani Tefillah Foundation Yom Kippur Worldwide Initiative Flyer regarding a great opportunity to acquire incomparable zechusim on the Holiest Day of the Year--when we need them most!

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EXTRA SPECIAL VIGILANCE: Although the above form of Ta’anis Dibur is only for a short period (one can make it longer!), one should be especially careful and vigilant that he not get angry on Yom Kippur, not be makpid against another, and be especially Ma’avir Ahl Middosav(as above)!

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IMPORTANT! We once again remind all women who are Madlik Neiros and recite a Shehechiyanu then that they do NOT recite a second Shehechiyanu i.e., the Shehechiyanu after Kol Nidrei, which is found in the Machzorim.

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BORUCH SHEIM KEVOD: On Yom Kippur we will be especially privileged to recite Boruch Sheim Kevod aloud together in Shema at Ma’ariv and Shacharis, and at the conclusion of Ne’ilah. Does one recite Boruch Sheim aloud in Kriyas Shema Ahl HaMittah on the night of Yom Kippur? HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, rules that one does not. The Sefer Piskei Teshuvos brings that it is minhag Chabad to do so. Accordingly, every person should follow his Rav or Posek in this area.

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YIZKOR: The Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (133:21) writes that the reason for Yizkor on Yom Kippur is not only because thinking about the departed humbles one’s heart, but also because the deceased also need a Kapparah. It is for this reason that we give Tzedaka in their merit--Hashem views it as their own giving--as ‘if he were still alive he would have given this as well’. Those who are alive can also ask that Hashem ease the judgment of the departed, just as Dovid HaMelech davened for Avshalom. The departed can also be Melitzei Yosher for us in our judgment--we do not daven to them but we ask them to daven on our behalf, perhaps in the merit of our following in their ways.

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WE PROVIDE IMPORTANT POINTS AND POINTERS RELATING TO EREV YOM KIPPUR:

A. It is a Mitzvas Asei from the Torah to eat today, on Erev Yom Kippur. Rabbi Eliyahu Schneider, Shlita, points out that since one ordinarily eats during the day, it would not be clear that one is eating L’Sheim Mitzvah , unless he so expresses it himself before eating as Mitzvos Tserichos Kavannah--we require Kavannah in order to fulfill the Torah commandments. Accordingly, in addition to one’s careful brachos today, it would be appropriate for him to state in Lashon HaKodesh or in another language: “I am eating now to fulfill the Mitzvah of eating on the ninth day of Tishrei.”

B. One of course should be focusing in on the specific Kabbalos that he will be making. Here is an insightful Kabbalah from a reader in Bain Adam LeAtzmo area: “I am going to think twice (or three times), if I find myself lax before taking out my cell phone in a public area, or in order to text while walking on the street.” As we have mentioned numerous times in the past a Kabbalah in the advanced technology area would be especially appropriate for us, as many have referred to this as the great Nisayon of our Dor.

C. We will be reciting Vidui at Mincha today. It is essential that a person truly view himself as a sinner in the areas in which he has sinned. Yirmiyahu HaNavi (2:35) cried out “Hineni Nishpat Osach Al Umreich Lo Chatasi”--I will judge you when you say you have not sinned. On the other hand, if one truly does Teshuvah, then he has the right to sing the Ashamnus--as the Tiferes Yisroel (end of Mishnayos Ta’anis) writes--one is singing for his Aveiros have turned into Zechuyos! The Chayei Adam (Chapter 143) presents a tremendous number of essential ideas, and we once again urge you to review the Chapter today. Here, we very briefly summarize just a few of the concepts: (a) The Pasuk states “Lifnei Hashem Titharu--before Hashem shall you cleanse yourself.’ Accordingly, it is essential that we begin our purification process before Yom Kippur itself--now!. (b) The sin of Lashon Hara is so horrific that, it leads to the three cardinal sins of Shefichas Domim, Gilui Arayos and Avodah Zara. We learn this from the Nachash who spoke Lashon Hara against Hashem--which the immediate result of these three cardinal sins occurring. (c) One who causes pain or anguish to an Almanah or Yasom is liable to Missah B’Yedei Shomayim. (d) In accordance with one’s increased Torah study will be his increased service of Hashem. (e) One must remind himself that he cannot recite Vidui on a Bain Adam LeChaveiro sin unless he first appeases his friend. (f) Based upon Tehillim (51:19), reciting Vidui with proper remorse is as if one brought a Karbon in the Bais HaMikdash. (g) One way to begin one’s remorse is with the words “Ma Assisi--oh what have I done!” A person must truly view himself as a sinner, and be truly sorry for what he has done for the Vidui to be effective.

Hakhel Note: As we have noted in the past, the Sefer Tomer Devorah (Chapter 1), writes that one’s Kavannah in Vidui should be LeKabel Alav Taharah--to bring purity upon oneself. It is for this reason that Dovid HaMelech in the Tehillim Kepitel of Teshuvah exclaims (Tehillim 51:4): “Herev Kabseini Mei’avoni U’Meichatasi Tahareini--abundantly cleanse me from my iniquity and from my sin purify me.” When reciting Vidui, one should visualize Hashem cleansing his soul!

D. The Rambam in Hilchos Teshuva (6:2) provides the following inescapable solution Kesheim SheHaAdam Chotei Mida’ato U’Veritzono Kach Hu Oseh Teshuva Mida’ato U’Veritzono--just as one sins by his own knowledge and his own election so too, can he do Teshuvah by his own knowledge and his own election--it is up to us!

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WE PROVIDE SEVERAL ADDITIONAL, FINAL NOTES FROM THE SEFER KOVETZ HALACHOS: YOMIM NORAIM BY RABBI DONIEL KLEINMAN, SHLITA, CONTAINING THE PESOKIM OF HARAV SHMUEL KAMENETSKY, SHLITA. AFTER STUDYING THESE PESOKIM, ONE SHOULD, OF COURSE, IN ALL EVENTS CONSULT WITH HIS RAV WITH RESPECT TO HIS OWN PERSONAL SITUATION, CIRCUMSTANCES, OR MINHAGIM:

A. A minor who eats on Yom Kippur does not make Kiddush, but it would seem that he should make a bracha of Borei Pri HaGafen on grape juice. Hakhel Note: In Children in Halacha, Rabbi Simcha Bunim Cohen, Shlita, writes: “When a child eats on Yom Kippur, Kiddush is not recited prior to eating. A child should recite Ya’aleh V’Yavo (for Yom Kippur), but does not repeat Birkas HaMazon if he forgets.”[The same would appear to be true for a Choleh who must eat on Yom Kippur].

B. If a person arises before Amud HaShachar, one should wash his hands again after Amud HaShachar even on Yom Kippur, where there is otherwise an issur of rechitza.

C. Women who attend Shul should recite Kol Nidrei together with the Shaliach Tzibbur just as men do, but anyone davening at home does not recite Kol Nidrei.

D. If there is a break in Shul between Mussaf and Mincha, and one takes off his Talis--he involves himself in a Machlokes HaPoskim as to whether he should make a new Bracha when putting the Talis back on again. Accordingly, it is best for one to have in mind when putting on his Talis in the morning that that the bracha is only covering his initial wearing--so that any subsequent levisha will definitely require a new bracha.

E. There is an issue as to whether one makes an Al HaGefen on the Havdalah wine, as he plans to eat a meal immediately after Havdalah. If one does not intend to drink wine in this Seudah, then he does make an Al HaGefen on the Kos Shel Havdalah before the Seudah.

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WE PROVIDE IMPORTANT POINTS AND POINTERS RELATING TO YOM KIPPUR:

A. Some ask why there is no bracha on the Mitzvah of Teshuva. The wonderful Sefer Otzros HaTorah brings several answers: (a) The Bais Yitzchak writes that it would be inappropriate to say the words VeTzivanu Al HaTeshuva--which would indicate that we would not want to do Teshuva unless we were commanded to do so, (b) The Divrei Yisrael writes that this is a Mitzvah that applies to all nations and not only the Jewish people, and therefore Asher Kideshanu B’Mitzvosav would not be accurate in this context, (c) The Pardes Yosef writes that the Ikar Mitzvah of Teshuva is in the heart and that Chazal did not institute brachos over Mitzvos of the heart, (d) The Pardes Yosef brings as a second approach--we do not make a bracha over Mitzvos which are related to Aveiros. For instance, when returning a stolen item and fulfilling a Mitzvas Asei of VeHeishiv Es HaGezeilah we do not make a bracha. So too does Teshuva originate from a sin initially committed, and so a bracha would be inappropriate.

B. According to some authorities, Yom Kippur is the Yahrtzeit of Rebbi Akiva, who gave his life Ahl Kiddush Hashem in such an awe-inspiring way. This may be the reason that we enumerate the Asara Harugei Malchus in Musaf on Yom Kippur. Undoubtedly, we mention them as well so that their merits stand in our stead.

C. EMERGENCY RECOMMENDATION FOR TESHUVA: Rav Dessler, Z’tl, writes that in difficult times when one does not know what the day will bring, one should undertake a shortcut to Teshuva which he literally calls “Ezra Rishona (first aid)” in difficult times (Michtav Mei’Eliyahu I, page 30). Rav Dessler provides the following four emergency recommendations for Teshuva: Learn Torah – in order to chase away the Yetzer Hara. Learn Mussar – in order to acquire the true view of life. Accustom Yourself to Break Your Desire – (according to Rabbeinu Yonah in the name of the Raavad) this is equivalent to many fasts in one day! Increase Your Acts of Kindness – both to individuals and to K’lal Yisrael. This includes practicing Chesed B’Lev – including davening for others, doing a chesed for the z’chus of others, and having tza’ar for the suffering of others.

D. Clearly, Tefillah is a great Avodas HaYom of Yom Kippur. It is absolutely imperative for us to daven (on Yom Kippur—and everyday) for all our uneducated brethren who know oh so little of Torah and Judaism. Is it really possible for us not to shed a tear for them this Yom Kippur?!

Additional Note: HaRav Zaidel Epstein, Z’tl, was asked why the Ahshamnus are in the plural--after all doesn’t one have to find forgiveness for his own sins first. HaRav Epstein responded that every Jew is responsible for his fellow’s actions, and that, accordingly, every Teshuva that we do is on behalf of others as well.

E. On Yom Kippur we should constantly remind ourselves that we are immersing ourselves in purity (“Titharu”). Just as a person who is physically ill may go to the hospital or take medication to get better, Yom Kippur is an ultimate healing process for the ailments of the soul--which need to be cured for a much, much longer time than the body needs to be healed. What an Opportunity! What an Occasion! We should especially express our thanks to Hashem for the unfathomably infinite gift that He has given us!

F. The great majority of Masechta Yoma, the Masechta of Yom Kippur, discusses the Avodah in the Bais HaMikdash. Indeed, we even bow down during the Chazaras HaShatz of Mussaf, just so that we have a touch of the Avodah that we so long for. It is said of the Chasam Sofer that when the Avodah was being recited he would cry so powerfully that the pages of his Machzor would stick together from their saturation with his tears. Accordingly, although we may be weary at this point of a Yom Kippur service it very much behooves us to put our efforts into recitation of the Avodah with feeling and longing for the great Kapparah and Deveikus that it effected. Imagine being there as the Kohein Gadol expressed Hashem’s ineffable Name ten times on Yom Kippur. In describing the Kohein Gadol’s mentioning of the Name, the Mishna states that the name was Yotzei MePi Kohein Gadol--it came out of the Kohein Gadol’s mouth. The Tiferes Yisroel on the Mishna explains that he could not even speak but the Shechina was reciting the Name out of the Kohein Gadol’s throat. Oh--how we must long to be there!

Additional Note: In the Musaf Shemone Esrei, we will recite the words “V’ein Anachnu Yecholim La’asos Chovoseinu B’vais Bechirasecha--we cannot perform our obligations in the Beis Hamikdash this Yom Kippur because of the foreign hand that has been placed there.” We must take these words deeply to heart. It is our chov--our current and existing obligation--to bring Karbanos in the Beis HaMikdash and for the Kohein Gadol to perform the special Avodah on Yom Kippur. This is not something of the past--nor is it relegated only to the future. It is something that we must do now, and we are being forced not to do it. When reciting all of the words relating to Avodas Yom Kippurim we should bring them to life in our minds, and also sincerely yearn in our hearts that we see them in reality in our days!

G. One of the Avodos of the Kohein Gadol was to sprinkle the blood in the Kodesh HaKedoshim and on the Paroches “Achas LeMa’alah V’Sheva L’Matta--once in an upward fashion and seven times in a downward fashion. Some explain that the one upwards symbolizes our following the Yetzer HaTov--whose instruction elevates us towards the heavens. On the other hand, as Chazal teach the Yetzer Hara has seven names--representing that he can ‘take us down’ in several different ways. Accordingly, it is of the essence that we focus on the Achas LeMa’alah and with that we can overcome its counterpart--the Shevah L’Matta.

H. Please remember VeTalmud Torah K’negged Kulam. We remind everyone that a person can utilize his own resources to help increase his joy in Torah learning. For instance, some have the habit of vigorously (or even gently) shaking their legs to and fro as they sit and learn. This may create an aura of nervousness and impatience which is antithesis of happiness in Torah study. Thus, may we suggest that a person try to curb his habit in this regard? Others may have the custom of keeping their Blackberries handy and examining the cause of its vibration every few minutes. If one wants to express and appreciate his Torah learning, he may want to try the exercise of keeping his phone on silent or turned off from the time he is in Shiur or otherwise occupied with Torah study. Hakhel Note: The story is told of how HaRav Aryeh Levin, Z’tl, wanted to visit some Jewish visitors being held by the British. The British guard on duty would not let them in that day. The Jewish guard who was working together with the British guard advised the Britain that the Rabbi was a righteous person and simply wanted to visit the prisoners out of the goodness of his heart--and that it was wrong not to let him in. The Britain mocked him and said that he was obviously a salaried worker who was happy to go home while still getting paid. A few minutes later they noticed HaRav Levin sneaking into the compound through a different door when he thought no one was looking. The Britain remarked: “Now I see that he is a righteous person--and he is not doing it for the money!” We must realize that it is the extra effort that distinguishes between our ‘having to do something’ and the love of Torah and Mitzvos that should truly be part of our fiber and being!

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KABBALOS: By now, one should be formulating the Kabbala/Kabbalos that he intends to undertake for the coming year. We asked HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita, when one should finalize his Kabbalos. He advised that his Rebbi, HaRav Eliyahu Lopian, Z’tl, would formalize and express it at Neilah on Yom Kippur. Now is the time we should be going through the preparatory and practice stages to make sure the Kabbalos work, and how we can refine and improve on them. We provide below some of the Kabbalos we had initially suggested as part of our recent Summer Improvement Program. The suggestion was to undertake one item in Bein Adam LaMakom, one in Bein Adam L’Chaveiro, and one in Bein Adam L’Atzmo--and perform it once a day.

Bein Adam LaMakom

ONCE A DAY:

1. HaRav Shimon Schwab, Z’tl, writes that when one recites a bracha, he can consciously perform four Mitzvos: Ahavas Hashem, Yiras Hashem, U’Le’avdo Bechol Levavchem and U’Ledavka Vo. Before reciting a Birkas HaNehenin have in mind these four Mitzvos!

2. Say “Thank you Hashem!” with appreciation when opening up the refrigerator and seeing inside the various nourishing, essential, and even not-so-essential food and drink that Hashem has provided you with.

3. Actively think of a way that you can make a Kiddush Hashem--and act on it! Remember, it does not have to appear to be something big--just a Kiddush Hashem!

4. Among the first words of the Rema in Shulchan Aruch are Shivisi Hashem L’negdi Samid…for one’s actions and business when he is ‘alone’ are not the same as one who conducts himself in front of a great king…most certainly when one is in the presence of the Great King HaKadosh Baruch Hu Whose Presence fills the earth and Who stands and watches him. When sitting down at one’s table or desk one should try to conduct himself for a few moments, feeling that he is in the Presence of the Great King with the thought of Shivisi Hashem L’negdi Samid.

5. The Sefer Sha’arei Teshuvah writes that Mezuzuah is a Mitzvah which brings upon us Kabolas Ohl Malchus Shomayim. The Rambam (in Hilchos Mezuzah) writes that the Mezuzah reminds us that “Ein Davar Omeid L’Olmei Olamim Elah Yediyas Tzur Olamim”--there is nothing that lasts forever except for one’s connection to Hashem! Stop by the Mezuzah, and as many do, place your hand upon it and either recite one of the famous Pesukim (such as Hashem Shomri, Hashem Tzili, Ahl Yad Yemini, or Hashem Yishmor Tzeitsicha U’voecha Mei’ata V’Ahd Olam), or think about Hashem’s love and protection over you.

6. Answering “Amen” to another’s brachos or Tefillos provides us with the opportunity not only to fulfill a personal obligation--but to reiterate it in a voluntary way. Seek out an opportunity--although not required--to answer “Amen” to someone else’s Tefillah or bracha, so that you can personally exclaim your wholehearted belief in the Omnipotence, Omniscience and Omnipresence of Hashem!

7. The Teshuvas HaRashba (5:1), writes that just as the Aseres Yemei Teshuva is the Eis Ratzon of the year, so too, is Tefillas Mincha the Eis Ratzon of the day. Let us appreciate and utilize each and every Tefillas Mincha for the tremendous opportunity that it is--starting today!

Bein Adam L’Chaveiro

ONCE A DAY:

1. Smile at someone (especially someone who could use it), or cause someone else to smile.

2. Look at another person whom you are familiar with, and think about how much behind him there is that you really do not know--his Mitzvos, his life’s experiences, and the reasons he may react to situations and circumstances in ways that are different from you. Then, judge him favorably in something particular that occurred (or keep it in mind for the future).

3. Perform an unrequested Chesed before breakfast.

4. Have someone join in a Mitzvah with you--it can include asking someone to answer Amen to your bracha.

5. One easy but important ‘habit’ we can develop is provided to us in the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (183:6): “When one sees someone involved in his work, give him a bracha of ‘Tatzliach B’Ma’asecha--may you have success in your endeavors!”

6. As the Navi describes, what Hashem seeks of us is ‘Ahavas Chesed’--not only to perform Chesed when the situation arises, but to love Chesed to the extent that it is incorporated into our character and being. Buy a notebook or establish a file for Chesed items--people to daven for; names to add to the Cholim list in Shul; people to help with Shidduchim; people to talk to; new Chesed ideas; confirmation that you have given daily Tzedaka for the sake of the Geulah of K’lal Yisrael….

7. The Mitzvah of Kibud Av Va’eim is one of the few Mitzvos to which the Torah attributes Arichus Yomim--special reward in this world and the next. The Mitzvah applies both during a parent’s lifetime in this world and after. Every day, be sure to perform some new or different act of Kibud (e.g., an additional phone call, a gift, a donation of a Sefer to Shul in honor, etc.).

8. Many times we do an important Chesed for another person--helping him with advice, being a good listener, taking the person’s name to daven for him…but as the next day comes, new and different circumstances and situations present themselves, and we may forget the person who we so helped or benefited just a day or two or three before. It would certainly be most beneficial for a person to keep a note to follow-up in a day or two or more on how this person feels, how that person fared, or whether he still needs this, or she is still looking for somebody for that. The follow-up to the initial Chesed not only provides shleimus, a completeness to the act of Chesed itself--it also provides a shleimus to the person completing it. Try to follow up, at least once a day with a person or project that you had started to assist with several days earlier.

Hakhel Note: An important consideration: When a person does Chesed with another, his ‘I’ should be expanded so that it is as if he is doing Chesed with himself, and accordingly one should perform the Chesed in the manner that he would want it done to himself.

Bein Adam L’Atzmo

ONCE A DAY:

1. Rather than taking out a cell phone when walking on the street or traveling, spend time with yourself.

2. Before reciting Shema at night, make sure your last activity of the day is one of Ruchniyus--either the study of Torah (even for only a short while), an act of Chesed, or the performance of a Mitzvah.

3. Do not ‘lose your cool’ even though it appears justifiable and may be even correct to do so.

4. Run to do a Mitzvah (or want to run).

5. Make an effort to treat your clothing with special respect--not throwing any article down or across the table or room, if disposing of it--wrapping it up, and in any event making sure that it is not stained or dirty.

6. The Sefer Tomer Devorah teaches that we must all be careful that: “Ve’al Yikaneis Zar U’Mevatel Machshavto”--not to let foreign or inappropriate thoughts to infiltrate one’s mind. If one recognizes that a thought of inappropriate jealousy, anger, dislike, desire, or the like has entered one’s mind--he should quickly banish it, replacing it with the thought of a Pasuk, a Mitzvah or a good deed!

7. We are all warned .to avoid the attitude and even the feeling of ‘Kochi V’Otzem Yadi’--it is my strength, my acumen, my knowledge that brought me to my position in life, my accomplishments…. Every time one has a feeling of personal aggrandizement or unjustified pride--even if it is in Torah study or Ruchniyus, he should exclaim: “It is not Kochi V’Otzem Yadi” or “It is Hashem’s gift!”

8. We are all familiar with the famous Ma’aseh reported of the Chofetz Chaim, Z’tl, being given the room in an inn next to Rebbi Yisroel Salanter, Z’tl. The Chofetz Chaim reported that the whole night he could hear Rebbi Yisroel Salanter repeating the following teaching (Avos 4:28): “Rebbi Eliezer HaKapar Omer: HaKinah V’HaTa’avah VeHakavod Motzi’in Es Ha’adam Min HaOlam--jealousy, desire, and honor, r’l remove a person from the world.” One must constantly remind himself of these three horrendous middos which seek to undermine a person’s very existence in this world. If he can do battle with them, then they will not succeed in removing him from the world--and the great and clear implication is that doing battle will bring a person further life. As Rebbi Yisroel Salanter did, one should remind himself of Rebbi Yisroel HaKapar’s teaching--and implement it, as Rebbi Yisroel certainly did as well!

9. After the hundreds of teachings in Pirkei Avos, the Mesechta concludes (5:26) with the teaching of Ben Hei Hei: “Lefum Tza’ara Agra--according to the effort is the reward.” One should not delude himself into thinking that his personal wisdom, aggressiveness or connections got him anywhere, or will get him anywhere. Hashem looks solely at the efforts of the person in his particular position in life. Mesechta Avos is the Mesechta that is specifically dedicated to how we can grow personally. Its final words to us are: “With Effort”. If something is important to you, whether it be Kavannah in Tefillas Mincha, a Daf Yomi Shiur, helping a certain person find a Shidduch….whatever it may be, remember not to tire of it and instead reinvigorate and revitalize yourself to put your best effort into it--daily!

Additional Note: One may want to consider suggesting a family or extended family Kabalah, which every adult/older child participates in. A choice can be made from the list above, or of course, can be developed by the family itself!

A final thought on our Kabalos: Remember, the Torah tells us “U’Vacharta BaChaim—Choose Life”. Incredibly, Hashem puts our lives in our own hands.

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WE PROVIDE IMPORTANT POINTS AND POINTERS RELATING TO NEILAH:

A. The Sefer Otzros HaTorah writes that the end of Yom Kippur, when the gates close, brings a Shefa Gadol along with it, for a climax or a conclusion is always a time of greatest intensity. For instance, as the Midrash Shochar Tov teaches before Alos HaShachar is the time when it is darkest. So too, at the end of days will the Yetzer Hara be at its strongest--for it is about to reach the end of its purpose. So too, is the Shefa of Kaparas Yom HaKippurim greatest during these moments. Over the last 40 days, Days of Mercy, we have davened and pleaded, done Teshuva and given Tzedaka. We have, to use the Mashal of the Maggid M’Lublin shot all of our arrows but one. There is a lion on the other side of the grass and there is one arrow left--this is Tefillas Neilah. Our lives depend upon how powerfully we deliver our final arrow!

B. From the ‘Flatbush Chabura’: “Rav Avrohom Schorr, Shlita, brings from the Meshech Chochma that while there usually is no kapara for Chilul Hashem except at the end of a person’s life (though constant Kiddush Hashem and Limud HaTorah are brought by the seforim as being a kapara), at the time of Neilah when Hashem is Don Yechidi (judges all by Himself) , if one has done proper Teshuva through charata and bechi (crying) one can gain mechila EVEN for Chilul Hashem. This gives us some insight into the amazing power of the time of Neilah!”

C. A great theme of Tefillas Neilah is LeMa’an Nechdal MeiOshek Yadeinu--that we have no thievery or taking of another’s possessions left among us (as we know this is what the Dor HaMabul’s final cause of destruction was). Accordingly, the Chofetz Chaim warns everyone to seriously consider and reflect upon whether he has something that really belongs to someone else in his possession Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik, Z’tl (Boston, RIETS) additionally notes that the thievery we may be referring to is our stealing from Hashem, our people and ourselves--by our not living up to our purpose in life. At Neilah, we proclaim that we will no longer follow that sorry route, and that we fully intend to live up to Hashem’s expectations of us!

D. We conclude Neilah with the phrase Hashem Hu HaElokim seven times--as with these words the Shechina is escorted back up through the Seven Rekiyim. It is very important for us to realize that this is the phrase that all of the people on Har HaKarmel recited when Eliyahu defeated the Nevi’ei HaBa’al with Hashem’s acceptance of his sacrifice. We must realize that we are now in a similar position. The ‘Ba’al’ is behind us--Hashem has accepted our Karbon--and we intend to forever tread on a new and successful path in His Avodah!

E. Rabbi Naftali Jaeger, Shlita, points out that the Luchos Sheniyos were given on Yom Kippur-and these Luchos stayed with us. Accordingly, Yom Kippur is an especially auspicious time to b’li neder take it upon ourselves to improve in some area in Talmud Torah! Once again, may we suggest that even if one does not have a Yeshiva Mai Chayil El Chayil in his community that he still demonstrate his new goals and aspirations by setting aside time for Torah study after the Seudah. This is dedication--this is rededication!

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HILCHOS SUKKAH: We continue our two Halachos a day in the 30-day period before Sukkos. We provide six Halachos--two for today, two for tomorrow, Yom Kippur, and two for Sunday. We present below rulings of HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, relating to Sukkos, as excerpted from the Sefer Ashrei HaIsh (Volume III):

1. If a person makes a Sukkah on top of a car, the car has Kedusha, and one cannot take down the Sukkah and use the car for other purposes--even if one initially had only intended to use the Sukkah for a short time, no tenai will help regarding the Sukkah itself (as a tenai only helps for the Noi Sukkah).

2. A large Sukkah is not more of a Hidur than a small Sukkah--if one does not need a large Sukkah. If a Sukkah is too small, it is a Chiyuv Gamur to make it larger for one’s family to fit--not a ‘Hidur’.

3. The Halachos of Noi Sukkah apply only to something attached to the Sukkah--not to a plant, flowers or the like, which do not have any restrictions relating to taking them out of the Sukkah.

4. If snow falls on the Sukkah, it is batel to the Schach, and the Sukkah may be used.

5. One may not nail down the Schach even if he is worried that the Schach may fly up in a high wind. One should instead tie boards next to the Schach to weigh it down, or tie the Schach loosely with something that is not mekabel tumah. If Schach did fly off on Shabbos or Yom Tov, one can have an akum put it back, telling him to do so L’Shem Tzel--for the sake of shade. Hakhel Note: As we have advised in the past, if the Schach flew up and flew back down itself, a question may be whether it has been placed back on the Sukkah L’Shem Tzel. One should consult his Rav in this event.

6. If a child under Bar Mitzvah put up the Schach, one should preferably place the Schach down again.

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GEMAR CHASIMA TOVA!

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8 Tishrei

URGENT ADVICE: The Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, 606, seif katan1) writes that although one must always ask his friend for mechila immediately after having hurt or offending him, there is a special chiyuv to do so before Yom Kippur--as the Torah requires Lifnei Hashem Titharu on Yom Kippur, and we cannot purify ourselves before Hashem relating to an aveirah of Bein Adam L’Chaveiro without first obtaining mechila from the person offended. Indeed, not even the Se’ir Hamishtalei’ach could effect Kapparah for sins of Bein Adam L’Chaveiro! At a Hakhel Yom Iyun, Rabbi Yisroel Belsky, Z’tl, taught that the way one asks for mechila is simply by saying ‘I was wrong’; ‘I did the wrong thing’; ‘I made a mistake’; ‘I am sorry’--but that one should be careful not to hurt a person or embarrass him when asking for mechila.

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REMINDER: In the physical world, as runners get closer and closer to the finish line, they do not slow down or sway to the side out of exhaustion or abandonment--but stay very much on the path, putting in their extra full strength for the most successful finish possible. We should apply our knowledge of this fact to the Real World Situation Immediately Ahead of Us--which will have eternal and everlasting effects!

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QUESTION OF THE DAY ONE: What is the first word in Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim? What does that teach us about our approach to life?

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YOUR SPECIAL TEFILLAH! One should make sure to have the personal Tefillah that he composed for Rosh Hashanah (as per the Shiur of HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita), available in his Yom Kippur Machzor to be recited at the end of one’s Yom Kippur Shemone Esrei before Asei L’Ma’an Shemecha as well.

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CLOSE YOUR EYES: At a Shiur on Teshuvah, Rabbi Eliezer Ginsburg, Shlita, asked everyone to close their eyes for a few moments and have Hirhurei Teshuvah. After everyone opened their eyes, he noted that this was only the beginning--but who knows what Yeshuos could come from a few moments of Hirhurei Teshuvah alone! One must start somewhere--this may be the way to begin!

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THE RAMBAM’S POWERFUL LESSON: In Hilchos Teshuvah (7:3), the Rambam writes: One should not say that Teshuvah is only for aveiros which involve a deed, such as immorality and theft. Rather, just as one must do Teshuvah from these, he must also search through his bad Middos--whether anger, hatred, jealousy, levity, money-seeking, honor-seeking, food lusting, and the like and do Teshuvah. In fact, Teshuvah for Middos Ra’os is harder than Teshuvah over particular deeds, because a person is so absorbed and involved in his Middos, that it is difficult for him to become a different person. Nevertheless this is what is required of us--as the Navi teaches--“Ya’azov Rasha Darko, Ve’Ish Aven Machshivosav, VeYashov Ehl Hashem…!”

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I KNOW HIM! As we all know, one of the main topics of our Vidui will be the sins that one has committed with his great gift of speech. One phrase that one should be very cautious about using, when speaking to another, “Oh, I know him!” This kind of open-ended statement can lead to all kinds of responses…many of which could be Lashon Hara or Avak Lashon Hara.

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SOME NEW KABBALOS SUGGESTIONS:

A. Personalize a Kabbalah relating to a family member or friend--if a particular habit or method of speech he has constantly annoys you--work on being ma’avir ahl midosav relating to it.

B. The Kabbalah of one Rav: Not to complain, ever!

C. Before starting work every day, begin with a prayer to HaKadosh Baruch Hu. By the following link, we once again provide a Tefillah formulated by a reader, which you are of course free to use or adapt http://tinyurl.com/cqqbomd

D. Rabbi Yisroel Reisman, Shlita, teaches that when we recite Shema, we are accepting upon ourselves both Ohl Malchus Shomayim and Ohl Mitzvos. Accordingly, rather than walking out of Shul immediately after having recited Shema at Ma’ariv--we should spend at least another five minutes in Shul studying Torah--to demonstrate that we are taking the Ohl Malchus Shomayim and Ohl Mitzvos seriously!

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HYDRATING! Rabbi Yisroel Pinchos Bodner, Shlita, author of Halachos of Brachos, advises as follows: Drinking water to hydrate creates questions as to whether brachos are applicable. The best advice is to drink juice and recite a bracha rishona and acharona. A better suggestion from a practical as well as halacha standpoint is for one to drink his favorite flavored sport drink (e.g., Gatorade) with electrolytes before the fast. It will hydrate, and there will not be any bracha shailos as a bracha rishona and achrona will definitely be required.

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WE PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT LINKS FOR YOU TO PRINT OUT AND FURTHER DISTRIBUTE FOR YOM KIPPUR, AS WE HAVE DONE IN THE PAST:

A. The extremely essential words of the Yesod V’Shoresh HaAvoda relating to Inui on Yom Kippur--and what to think about if one starts to become hungry or thirsty. The statement can be found at http://tinyurl.com/pu8a4te Please spread the word.

Hakhel Note: As Rabbi Yisroel Reisman, Shlita, teaches, it is not your job to watch the clock--it is your job to make the most out of Yom Kippur for yourself, your family, your community, and for all of K’lal Yisrael!

B. We received an important message based upon the words of the Chofetz Chaim, which also includes extremely valuable words of Chizuk and encouragement. If one does not have time to read all of the text, we highly recommend that one at least read the words of Chizuk and encouragement, which are so noge’ah lema’aseh. The message is available at http://tinyurl.com/csvr3fh

C. A Vidui Card in Lashon HaKodesh with more detailed specification as to possible Aveiros. http://tinyurl.com/4yzr9u

D. The Thirteen Middos--The Thirteen Attributes in Lashon HaKodesh. http://tinyurl.com/2d63u8

E. The Thirteen Middos--The Thirteen Attributes in English. http://tinyurl.com/yq9k42

Hakhel Note: HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, (Moadim I, p. 214) points out that when reciting the Thirteen Middos, we should feel HaKaras HaTov to Hashem for acting towards us in this way--this, in turn, will inspire us to act with similar middos to others as well(which we should bli neder be mekabel upon ourselves!).

F. We once again provide a great Tefillah for Teshuvah--which you may insert at the end of your Yom Kippur Shemone Esrei http://tinyurl.com/2dm686 The Tefillah is published in the Sefer Kav HaYashar for one’s self, one’s family members, and one’s friends to do Teshuva--especially invaluable at this time of year!

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ADDITIONAL IMPORTANT PRE-YOM KIPPUR POINTS AND POINTERS:

1. If one has the capability, he should most certainly review and study the classic Chapter 143 of the Sefer Chayei Adam which so beautifully and meaningfully explains the focused attitude and approach one should have to and on Yom Kippur. We note that the Chayei Adam provides more detail of specific Aveiros, and that HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky, Shlita, views the detail of the Chayei Adam as being ‘mefaret’--specifying one’s sins.

2. We remind everyone of the awesome thought related by HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, relating to why the ten great sons of Rav Pappa are mentioned at every Siyum. Rav Pappa, in ten places in Shas, resolves a difference of opinion between Amoraim by demonstrating Kavod for both of them, and ruling that we should conduct ourselves like both of them. Because of his special display of Kavod HaTorah, he was zoche to have ten sons who themselves were unique Talmidei Chachomim--deserving and receiving Kavod HaTorah, as well. At the time of a Siyum, which is a time of true Kavod HaTorah, we recount their names. We can all improve in some aspect of our Kavod to the Torah and those who study it--the way we speak, the way we act, the way we learn together, and the elevated regard we should have for all levels of Torah students and their studies.

3. ‘KeKelev Shav El Kayo…’--just as a dog returns to that which it has regurgitated, so too, does an unwise person return to the sins that he has committed in the past. We may want to keep this graphic thought on our minds as a method for not returning to the foibles of yesteryear.

4. The Chasam Sofer (Yoreh De’ah 213) brings an amazing question from a ‘Kadmon Echad’: How is it that if one enters a Mikvah he becomes Tahor--after all shouldn’t he make the water tamei upon his touching it? The answer is that since the water is attached to the ground and never leaves it, it does not become tamei. So, the Tahara of the Mikvah is based upon the water remaining attached to its Source. So too, is the Tahara that we receive from Hashem--we must remain attached to our source--Mi Mitaher Eschem Avichem Shebashamayim. Without our Deveikus to Hashem--we could not become Tahor!

5. Finally, in the Yom Kippur davening we emphasize that Hashem is a Salchan and a Machlan. What does the extra nun at the end of each of these words come to indicate--why don’t we say that Hashem is simply a Soleiach and a Mochel? The Sefer Otzros HaTorah explains that the extra nun indicates a hanhaga temidis--that this is a constant and recurring Middah of Hashem. Thus, even if a person falls back to a sin time and again--as long as he was truly sincere, expressed true remorse, and with a full heart was mekabel not to do it again--then Hashem will be a Salchan and a Malchan--and continuously grant new forgiveness! The old aveiros are gone. Any new aveiros can be wiped out by Hashem with our new Teshuva--for He is a Salchan and a Machlan!

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AN AMAZING MASHAL: The Chofetz Chaim provides an amazing Mashal. A merchant came to a wholesaler and put together an order of $100,000. When it was time to pay he explained that he did not have the money, but would like to purchase all of this on credit. Based upon the wholesaler’s experience with this merchant’s slow payments in the past, the wholesaler wholly rejected the request. However, after much prodding and pleading, he was about to give in. His salesman and workers stopped him--explaining to him that it would cost him untold aggravation, time and money. The wholesaler was in a quandary--should he listen to the merchant with the poor credit record, but who was in dire need of making a living--or to his loyal workers?! At that moment, a wise man walked in and the wholesaler immediately asked him what to do. The wise man turned to the merchant in need of a livelihood and asked him if he had $5,000. The response was affirmative. He advised the merchant not to buy anything on credit, but instead to buy $5,000 worth of goods. When he sold those and made money he could come back and buy $7,500 in goods. No credit would be necessary. The merchant would buy for cash and the wholesaler and all of his loyal employees would be happy. The Nimshal: We ask Hashem for credit, saying we will do better in the future, but the Malachim vehemently argue against us, pointing to our past record. Our Rabbanim, the wise men, tell us to do Teshuva in areas and ways where we can accomplish, in ‘cash’, little by little building up our business on our own--so that everyone is pleased--and everyone is happy!

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HILCHOS SUKKAH: We continue our two Halachos a day in the 30-day period before Sukkos:

1. It is a Mitzvah to cut one’s hair Erev Sukkos in honor of the chag. One should also cut one’s nails. In fact, the Sefer Mateh Ephraim (525:13) permits one to cut both his fingernails and toenails on Erev Sukkos--even though ahl pi kabalah one should generally not do this. [One should consult with his Rav as to whether this is the followed practice.] One should only eat bread or even Mezonos before Chatzos (some say until the 10^th hour). Indeed, Rebbi Avin (an Amora) would fast Erev Sukkos every year in order to ready himself to eat in the Sukkah. Some have the custom of not sleeping on Erev Sukkos in order to sleep b’tei’avon as well! (Luach Davar B’Ito).

2. The Mishna Berurah writes that because of the great Kedusha of the Sukkah, one must be especially careful not to engage in forbidden talk, and try not to engage in mundane chatter (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, 639, Mishna Berura, Leif Katan 2). One should look around the Sukkah from time to time and remind himself that he is engulfed in a Mitzvah like no other time during the year!

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7 Tishrei

YOM KIPPUR INITIATIVE: By the following link-- http://tinyurl.com/y79ytcto we provide the 5778 V’Ani Tefillah Foundation Yom Kippur Worldwide Initiative Flyer regarding a great opportunity to acquire incomparable zechusim on the Holiest Day of the Year--when we need them most!

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THE AHL CHEIT LINK: By the following link http://tinyurl.com/p8ewl7d we provide for your study a compiled review of the Ahl Cheits that in the past we had briefly reviewed in steady steps in Elul. Please feel free to print-out, and share the link with others!

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SCHACH CARE: Please see the following link on how to properly care for your Schach to prevent insect infestation - http://tinyurl.com/y77wmgo3

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GOOD! In Birchos HaShachar one thanks Hashem for taking care of all of my needs--She’asah Li Kol Tzarki. What a wonderful inspiration for one to remember daily--Hashem is there to take care of me! Is it not my responsibility to spend some time and effort considering how I can act differently, how I can change for the better--in honor of Hashem! “U’Chesov LeChaim Tovim Kol Bnei Brisecha--inscribe all the children of Your covenant for good life.” What is a good life? The Kuntres Avodas HaTefillah explains that it is life in this world which will be good for Olam Haba.

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QUESTION OF THE DAY: What is the last word of Avinu Malkeinu? Why do think that it is fitting that we end Avinu Malkeinu with this word?

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WORLDVIEW: A Rav pointed out to us that with the worldwide nuclear threats abounding we get a true sense of the words of Chazal, as brought L’Halacha by the Rambam in Hilchos Teshuvah--a person should view himself and the entire world as exactly equal in terms of Mitzvos and Aveiros--with one Mitzvah, or the avoidance of one aveirah, a person can tip the scales for himself and the entire world. This is very real--we each have the power to save our own world--and the entire world from destruction--and bring it to the Geulah Sheleima.

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SAY “THANK YOU!”: It is said that HaRav Avigdor Miller, Z’tl was asked for a segula for the Yemei HaDin. He responded that every morning we recite the following words in Mizmor Shir Chanukas HaBayis: “Hayodecha Afar HaYagid Amitecha--will the dust thank You, will it speak of Your truthfulness...?” If one thanks Hashem properly, he concluded--he can very literally keep himself alive--for this is very much part of being alive!

Hakhel Note: Rabbi Ephraim Wachsman, Shlita once said that he knew of an extended family which, when getting together, would always begin with Tehillim Chapter 111-as an expression of thanks to HaKadosh Baruch Hu for enabling them to join together for a Simcha or for a Yom Tov meal. Rabbi Wachsman added that the word Shevach means praise, and that the closely related word Sh’vach means to improve--for we improve ourselves and our lot when we express the proper Shevach to Hashem.

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RABBI BELSKY’S THOUGHT: At a Hakhel Yom Iyun, Rabbi Yisroel Belsky, Z’tl, elaborated on the concept of being more machmir in the Aseres Yemei Teshuvah. He explained that the concept is really for a person to elevate himself a notch above his ‘ordinary life’. One does so by making an additional exertion, taking an extra effort, perhaps even undergoing a bit of strain in order to raise himself up during this period. The example given in Shulchan Aruch (603) is not to eat pas shel akum. Rabbi Belsky suggests that another example of something one can do is not to eat his favorite food or the snack that ‘I just love’. This extra effort, this exertion is to teach one that he does have the ability, he does have the kochos, to rise above his present state! Hakhel Note: HaRav Nosson Wachtfogel, Z’tl, taught that an important avodah of the Aseres Yemei Teshuvah period is ressen piv--being more careful with what goes in and out of one’s mouth. You need not say it, you need not have it. Simply stated, a person can elevate himself above his current situation--but it is not by an electronic or other device that he does so--it is by the strength of character that Hashem has blessed him with.

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THOUGHTFUL THOUGHTS ON KABBALOS FROM OUR READERS:

1. For women: Try to light Shabbos candles at least five minutes before the zman, if possible.

2. For men: Pay attention during Chazaras HaShatz. (Do not look into a sefer or space out. Do not check your email or phone. Do not text. Do not stare at other people. Just listen to the baal tefilla and follow along in your own siddur.) Other than saying Baruch Hu Uvaruch Shemo and Amein, do not talk at all during Chazaras HaShatz. Talking during davening (or during leining) is one of the worst aveiras a Yid can do!

3. Say “Baruch Hu Uvaruch Shemo.” Do not only say “Shmoy” or “Baruch shmoy” (like some people do). Say it correctly. And don’t start saying ‘Baruch Hu Uvaruch Shemo’ until the baal tefilla finishes pronouncing Hashem’s name completely. Also, do not say Amein until the baal tefilla finishes pronouncing the bracha completely.

4. Talk to Hashem throughout the day, not just three times a day.

5. Before davening, accept upon yourself the positive commandment of “You shall love your fellow as yourself.” [Arizal]

6. Before going to sleep at night, say (or at least think), “I am going to sleep so that I will have energy to serve Hashem tomorrow.”

7. Learn Torah out loud if possible (not merely reading the sefer with your eyes, but actually verbalizing the words).

8.Be careful with Al Hamichya. Sit down while saying it, preferably from a siddur/ bencher.

9. Joining or forming a Machsom L’Fi--an incredible discipline opportunity for one or two hours a day.

10. Commit to following a derech--Seek out hadracha and try to let go of the need to have everything make sense to me on an intellectual level. It shouldn’t be all about whether I understand; I need to remember that sometimes the brain needs to follow and not lead. This is difficult for me, since I was always taught to think for myself, and it’s been a significant part of who I am. It’s going to take effort, but I want to commit to the ideal, and work on getting there.

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P’SAKIM OF HARAV SHMUEL KAMENETSKY: We provide a few brief notes below from the Sefer Kovetz Halachos: Yomim Noraim by Rabbi Doniel Kleinman, Shlita, containing the p’sakim of HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky, Shlita. Of course, one must consult with his own Rav or Posek relating to his particular facts, circumstances, and customs:

1. One performing Kapparos on behalf of another (moving the chicken, fish or money around his head) and reciting ‘Zeh Chalifaseich’ should first recite Kapparos for himself--so that one who is already Zakkai can come and help someone else become Zakkai.

2. If one knows that his friend does not perform Kapparos--it does not appear that it will help to perform Kapparos on his behalf without his knowledge.

3. A child over the age of nine who will at least fast for a portion of Yom Kippur should also be educated on the importance of eating Erev Yom Kippur.

4. If someone drinks water after the Seudas HaMafsekes, and is doing so not because he is thirsty, but just that he won’t be thirsty on Yom Kippur, would not make a bracha on the water.

5. Both the father and the mother should bentsch a child on Erev Yom Kippur.

6. It is better for the one being blessed to be in close proximity to the one giving the blessing, but the bracha may be given at a distance as well.

7. If one embarrassed his friend in public, one must ask for his mechila in public as well. However, it is enough to ask for mechila in front of ten people even if he embarrassed him in front of more than ten people.

8. Not only should spouses ask mechila of each other, but family members should ask mechila of each other as well, for through the course of the year they may hurt each other in some way.

9. One should ask mechila of a child whom he hurt or embarrassed--even thought he must do so again when he becomes bar/bas mitzvah in order to obtain forgiveness.

10. Each time we recite Viduy it is a separate Mitzvah, and one should have Kavannah that he is being mekayem the Mitzvas Asei Min HaTorah of Viduy. One Viduy is not me’akev any other. Children should also be taught to recite Viduy. In the aggregate, one who recites Viduy in shul will have recited ten Viduyim which, the Tur (Orach Chaim 620) writes, corresponds to the ten times that the Kohein Gadol mentions the Ineffable Name on Yom Kippur. If a person is davening at home, he need not make up the Viduyim that would be otherwise recited in Chazaras HaShatz.

11. VeAhl Kulam Eloak Selichos is not part of the Vidui, and need not be recited in a bowed position.

12. If one recites the details of various sins found in alphabetical order in the Chayei Adam (Chapter 143), it would be considered as if he is specifically listing his sins. Of course, one should add any specific sins that he remembers. When one adds his own specific sins in his own language, he may be more sincere and embarrassed, and feel greater remorse about his sin.

13. One beats his chest when reciting the words of Ashamnu as well as when reciting the words Shechatanu in the Al Chait, and the words Al Chatayim at the end of the Al Cheit. Additionally, one should also beat his chest when mentioning any specific sin that he adds on his own.

14. Some have the custom not to wear gold objects on Yom Kippur. This would not include white gold, nor would it include anything which may look like gold, but is not truly gold.

15. One who has the custom of washing his hands four times when he wakes in the morning, should only wash three times on Yom Kippur, and one who has the custom of washing three times upon leaving the bathroom, should only wash once. One should not use deodorant, as it is considered Sicha on Yom Kippur.

16. Women should also recite Tefillas Zaka, and skip the parts that do not relate to them. Women must be careful not to recite Shehechiyanu twice.

17. One should bring himself to cry in his Tefillos on Yom Kippur and should make his requests of Hashem--even when Yom Kippur falls out on Shabbos.

18. When mentioning Shabbos in the Friday night davening, it would appear appropriate that one have in mind that he is fulfilling the Mitzvah of Zechiras Shabbos.

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HILCHOS SUKKOS: We continue our two Halachos a day in the 30-day period before Sukkos:

1. If an esrog becomes spotted through much hand-holding, the well-known Chasam Sofer (Sukkah 36A) writes that this is its true beauty. The Chazon Ish, Z’tl, and Steipeler z’tl, both explain this to mean that the esrog is not more mehudar as a result--rather, it is to say that because this is part of the esrog’s function and use--the spots become part of the mareh esrog--which is an item of beauty. HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, and HaRav Vozner, Z’tl, take one additional step and rule that the Chasam Sofer would not want his sevarah relied upon on the first day of Yom Tov, in which the mitzvah of Daled Minim is MiD’Oraysa(Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 648, Dirshu Note 89).

2. If an esrog was stored under a bed, is it rendered unfit for use because of the ‘ruach ra’ah’ that has come upon it? The Binyan Olam rules that one should use it only if he has no choice. The Sedei Chemed writes that one should rinse off the esrog three times with water before using it. The Steipeler, Z’tl, writes that it is only an issue on the first day when there is a requirement of Lachem--and it cannot be eaten, but on subsequent days one may take it lechatchila. Hakhel Note: For those transporting an esrog and putting it under their train or plane seat, this may be an issue as well (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 649, Dirshu Note 82).

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6 Tishrei

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QUESTION OF THE DAY ONE: What is the first word in Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim? What does that teach us about our approach to life?

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SOME NEW KABBALOS SUGGESTIONS:

A. Personalize a Kabbalah relating to a family member or friend--if a particular habit or method of speech he has constantly annoys you--work on being ma’avir ahl midosav relating to it.

B. The Kabbalah of one Rav: Not to complain, ever!

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WE PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT LINKS FOR YOU TO PRINT OUT AND FURTHER DISTRIBUTE FOR YOM KIPPUR, AS WE HAVE DONE IN THE PAST:

C. A Vidui Card in Lashon HaKodesh with more detailed specification as to possible Aveiros. http://tinyurl.com/4yzr9u

D. The Thirteen Middos--The Thirteen Attributes in Lashon HaKodesh. http://tinyurl.com/2d63u8

E. The Thirteen Middos--The Thirteen Attributes in English. http://tinyurl.com/yq9k42

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ADDITIONAL IMPORTANT PRE-YOM KIPPUR POINTS AND POINTERS:

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HILCHOS SUKKAH: We continue our two Halachos a day in the 30-day period before Sukkos:

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5 Tishrei

WELCOME TO 5778! MAY IT BE A YEAR WHICH IS MALEI BIRKAS HASHEM!

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AN OUTSTANDING AND TIMELY OPPORTUNITY! We have obtained an entire Sefer, Sod HaTeshuvah (Hebrew), and have permission to make it available to our readers by the following link. The Sefer provides essential lessons in Teshuvah, and has excellent haskamos. You are also free to share the availability of the Sefer with friends by sharing the link! http://tinyurl.com/hp455wj

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FROM A READER--ROADMAP TO TESHUVAH: By the following link http://tinyurl.com/hu584cv, we provide a wonderful, thought-through path toTeshuvah!

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REMEMBER TO GIVE TZEDAKAH TODAY--PLEASE!

Hakhel Note: The Yesod VeShoresh Ha’Avoda writes that one should be “Marbeh BeTzedakah” because giving Tzedakah is a “Segulah Nefla’a LeKapparas HaAvonos U’Veyichud LaEvyonim MeHuganim Ba’alei Torah--giving Tzedaka is a wondrous Segulah for forgiveness of sin--especially if it is to poor Torah Scholars.” Over the next several days, let us especially remind ourselves: Give! Give! Give! and then…Give!

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YOU CAN STILL DO IT! There are ten days between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, and ten chapters in Hilchos Teshuva of the Rambam. Do you think that the Rambam is suggesting that we learn one chapter a day over the Aseres Yemei Teshuva? Well, at this point, we can learn two chapters a day ... and still finish before Yom Kippur!

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THE AHL CHEIT LINK: As Yom Kippur approaches, we provide for your use a linkof the Ahl Cheits http://tinyurl.com/p8ewl7d . Please feel free to print-out, and share the link with others!

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IMPORTANT POINTS ON VIDUI: One can easily brush over the Ashamnus and the Al Cheits boldly disclaiming any sin in this regard or at least thinking that what he has done is ‘Nisht Geferlach’--not so bad. HaRav Ezriel Erlanger, Shlita, Mashgiach of the Mirrer Yeshiva in New York, teaches that ‘Nisht Geferlach’ is ‘Geferlach’. We know two things:

(1) The Navi (Yirmiyahu 2:35) teaches: “Hineni Nishpat Osach Al Amreich Lo Chatasi--Hashem judges a person by separate judgment for the person’s claim that he did not sin.”

(2) It is not the ‘major aveiros’ that may necessarily affect many people, but as Chazal teach it is the “Mitzvos that a person steps upon that surround a person at the time of his judgment”. One must get serious in his reflection as to some of the everyday challenges and pitfalls that he encounters. Here are just a few examples:

(a) Tzararnu--going through the day making the conscious effort not to hurt anybody with one’s words or actions. Even if the other person is not a timid, weak, poor or suffering person--and even if that person is your parent, wife or child--one must take his own pain and care to avoid causing pain, suffering, anguish, or distress to another.

(b) Kishinu Oref--we must not be stubborn and rigid, but flexible and attentive. “I know better”; or “I will teach him”, without working with the person on his own level and in a way that bests suits the person is not only counterproductive--but offensive and wrong. The prohibition against being stiff-necked likewise applies to an attitude of “I can’t change the way I daven”, “I can’t learn more than I do”, and “That’s the way it is--every once in a while Lashon Hara comes out.” We add that as part of taking stock on Kishinu Oref, one think about something about himself that he knows bothers others, but that he has failed to correct because it is “him.” If one realizes that a particular mannerism or ‘custom’ really does irk family, friends, or colleagues, it should become part of the “Nachpesa Deracheinu”--the search of our ways so essential to steering us back to the proper path in life.

(c) Overdue Items--one should not overlook the items or money he has borrowed or lent to others, or to whom he owes a phone call or an apology before Rosh Hashanah.

(d) Brachos Recitation--were there any times this year that you failed to make a Bracha Achrona? Was there any time this year when you were unsure whether you recited an Asher Yatzar or not? Was there any time this year that you recited the wrong bracha on a product? Do you let your family/friends get by with the way they recite brachos--even though you know that they should do better? Fascinatingly, the Orchos Chaim LaRosh teaches that one should be careful to instruct his family to be careful in three items: Kavannah in Tefillah; the proper method of Netilas Yadayim; and proper brachos recitation. It is not a long list--but it is a powerfully meaningful one! Our dedication to improvement in brachos recitation is a demonstration of the honor that we feel in bringing Hashem into our life every day--throughout the day!

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WHEN THE SHOFAR WILL BE BLOWN! At what special occasions in the future will the Shofar be blown? The Kuntres Avodas HaTefillah brings from Rebbi Yehuda HaChassid that there will be three times that a great Shofar will be blown: (i) at Techiyas HaMeisim, (ii) at Kibutz Galiyos, and (iii) in order to bring down the Malchus Edom. In a wonderful sense our Shofar blowing on Rosh Hashana serves as the bridge between the call of the Shofar at Har Sinai (where the Kol Shofar could actually be seen!), and the ultimate Kol of the Shofarim that we will hear in the great and hopefully very close future! To the western world the Shofar serves as no match for synthesizers, computerized music and the like--we know better--Ashrei HaAm Yodei Seruah--fortunate is the people that understand the Shofar’s importance--from Har Sinai to eternity!

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PURITY! Now that we have begun to recite Vidui on a daily basis, we recall the holy words of the Sefer Tomer Devorah in which HaRav Moshe Cordevero, Z’tl, writes that when one recites Vidui he should have in mind to bring upon himself Tahara--a wellspring of purity. Indeed, HaRav Cordevero writes, that Dovid HaMelech in the Kepitel of Teshuvah (Tehillim 51:4) exclaims: “Herev Kabesaini Mei’avoni U’Maichatasi Tahareini--abundantly cleanse me from my iniquity, and from my sin purify me!”

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WE PROVIDE ASERES YEMEI TESHUVA ALERTS RELATING TO THIS PRECIOUS WEEK. WE ESPECIALLY NOTE THAT THERE ARE STILL SIX DAYS LEFT-- SIX DAYS OF ACTION--WHICH CAN HELP US ATTAIN THE BIRKAS HASHEM AND THE SWEET YEAR THAT WE SO LONG FOR:

A. Last week at this time we were blowing Shofar. This week, we no longer hear the wondrous and piercing sound. Why is this really so--if the Shofar is to move us to Teshuva should we not continue to hear its sublime message through Yom Kippur-- as we reach the epitome of Teshuva?’ We may suggest that the Shofar heralds the Days of Judgment--that the King will soon be arriving to sit in Judgment and will stay close to us (Dirshu Hashem BeHimatzo) from Rosh Hashana through Yom Kippur. Once the King arrives on Rosh Hashana, though, it would be superfluous and even perhaps insulting to the King and even to His subjects that any kind of reminder is needed that the King is here. We must accordingly be acting in a very special way at this time--with the knowledge and awareness that the King is here this week visiting with us. Our learning, our tefillos, our mitzvos, should be and feel different. It would not hurt for a person to make a little sign for himself to place on his desk, refrigerator or other conspicuous place that reads ASERES YEMEI TESHUVA--just so that the extra caution and precaution, care and vigilance, is exercised during these precious days.

B. Next week at this time we will no longer have the privilege of reciting the incredible and powerful Avinu Malkeinu tefillah. We must treasure each opportunity this week--and each and every plea for mercy should be heartfelt. Rabbi Yosef Eisen, Shlita teaches in the name of HaRav Yitzchok Hutner, Z’tl that Avinu Malkeinu provides a very special combination: A father sometimes wants to give to his child but is unable--he doesn’t have the ability, the time, the funds, etc. A king, on the other hand, has all of the above--but he simply may not have the willingness or desire to help his subject. Hashem, however, is different. As a Father--Ich Vill--I want to give, and as a King--Ich Kenn--I can give! We therefore approach Hashem as our Father and King who can certainly actualize our requests! The Father and King needs only to see and hear that we are His loyal son and subject. Indeed, even if we have gone astray in the past, he can see the sincerity of our current requests--as we heartfully plead with Him “Chaneinu VaAneinu ...Asei Imanu Tzedaka VaChesed VeHoshieinu.” Suggestion: Perhaps we can stretch out our hand and have a Hirhur Teshuva as we ask for this Tzedaka VaChesed here to demonstrate our fervent belief in the Dirshu Hashem BeHimatzo that this week so especially and uniquely houses!

C. When we recite the words in Selichos and on Yom Kippur of “Aval Anachnu VoAvoseinu Chatanu--but we and our forefathers have sinned,” we must remember that they are actually part of the Vidui itself. In fact, the Rambam in Hilchos Teshuva (2:8) calls these words the “lkar” of Vidui. Accordingly, it would appear that one should be slightly bowed over as he recites these words, as in the remainder of the Vidui.

D. Everyone must realize that not only is he a judge, as he is constantly judging other people (hopefully-favorably--for everyone’s sake), but that he is also a Rebbi--teaching others by his behavior. What time he arrives in Shul or to learn, how he treats Seforim, how he demonstrates respect to others when talking to them, how appropriately he dresses, how careful he is in reciting brachos, how he treats a person asking for charity or help, are just some of the most daily activities where our ‘students’ learn from us. We can create daily Kiddush Hashem or c’v Chilul Hashem which can carry on for years (and maybe even generations) in and through the conduct and behavior of others who learn from us--our neighbors, friends and family. Our thoughtful actions not only have ramifications in the heavenly worlds now--but in the future in this very world! Let us go for daily Kiddush Shem Shomayim--making it a part of our daily awareness and our daily goal!

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TESHUVA FOR A LIFE OF WRONGDOING: The wonderful Sefer, Journey to Virtue by Rabbi Avrohom Ehrman, Shlita (Artscroll), provides the following essential guidance for one who feels inundated by past wrongdoings:

Even if one has regularly offended people (through Lashon Hara, Rechilus, verbal abuse, etc.) for many years and caused incalculable damage during that time, one should not despair, for nothing stands in the way of Teshuvah. No matter how low a person has stooped, Hashem is ready at all times to accept his Teshuvah. Furthermore, Hashem desires and awaits his return. “And until the day a person dies You wait for him, if he will return to You, You will immediately accept him” (Tefillah of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur).

The Rambam writes in Hilchos Teshuva (7:4, 7): Let not a person who has done Teshuvah imagine that he is far removed from the greatness of Tzadikim because of his sins and iniquities. It is not so; rather, he is beloved and desired before the Creator as if he had never sinned. Furthermore, his reward is great because he ‘tasted sin and then left it’, and overcame his evil inclination…. How great is Teshuvah. Yesterday (before he did Teshuvah) he was distanced from Hashem…if he cried out to Him he was not answered…when he performed Mitzvos they were taken away (i.e., they were unwanted)…and today (after he has decided to return to Hashem)…when he cries out he is answered immediately…when he does Mitzvos they are accepted with pleasure and joy…and furthermore, Hashem desired them! (ibid)

Although it may be impossible to recall the identity of all those who were harmed, one should at least make efforts to placate the ones whom one does remember having wronged. A person who wants to do Teshuvah for years of wrongdoing should engage in four different activities:

(a) He should rectify whatever he possibly can.

(b) He should take steps to distance himself as much as possible from repeating his old patterns of behavior. He should make efforts to avoid situations in which he will be tempted to repeat those wrongs, and should take active steps to ensure that his resolution to change his ways is carried out. For example, he should study Mussar and the laws pertaining to the wrongs committed. If his personality led him to abuse others or speak Lashon Hara, he should examine the sources of the problem and get help to change his behavior patterns.

(c) Torah and acts of kindness are atonements for wrongdoing. Thus, if a person wants to atone for previous behavior he should engage in Torah study and act with kindness to others.

(d) The righteous find favor doing precisely those activities with which they had previously sinned. Thus, someone who wishes to atone for Lashon Hara, verbal abuse, cheating, etc. should try to teach and spread knowledge of these Mitzvos and prohibitions and encourage others to observe them. At the height of the ecstasy of rejoicing on Sukkos, those who repented said, “Fortunate are our older years that have atoned for our younger years.” Most important is the need to firmly resolve that from now on these wrongs will not be repeated.

Hakhel Note: Hashem has given us an unbelievable opportunity to cleanse ourselves of years of accumulated grime. Let us make the effort at this special time to come clean!

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HILCHOS SUKKAH: We continue our two Halachos a day in the 30-day period before Sukkos. We present below two Shailos asked of HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, as presented in the Sefer Ma’aseh Rav:

1. Question: One is permitted to place a sheet within 4-tefachim of his Sechach to decorate the Sukkah and it does not invalidate his Sechach. This being the case, one can simply spread a sheet directly under his Sechach--and he will be able to eat in the Sukkah-even when it is raining--why don’t we all do so?! [See Mishna Berurah to Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim, 629, seif katan 58].

Answer: The Torah did not obligate us to do so.

2. Question: Is it better to stay in the Sukkah longer and not be one of the first 10 in Shul for Minyan, or should one leave the Sukkah in order to be one of the first 10?

Answer: There are two possible responses: The rule of Taishvu Ke’Ain Taduru which would seem to dictate that it is better to be one of the first 10--as is the case the rest of the year and as brought in Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 90:14. The other possibility is DeOvid K’Mar Ovid, DeOvid KeMar Ovid--either way would be a responsible approach.

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29 Elul

KESIVA VECHASIMA TOVA--we wish each and every one of you a Kesiva VeChasima Tova, a Year which is replete with Chayim Tovim and Shalom!...We would graciously accept your brachos for the coming year!

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THE FOLLOWING IS A LINK TO HARAV ELYA BRUDNY’S OUTSTANDING PRE-ROSH HASHANA SHIUR (30 MINUTES):

https://www.dropbox.com/s/ pbti5wotdtamyj7/Rav%20Brudny% 20Vaad%20Rosh%20Hashana% 205778.MP3?dl=0

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ERUV TAVSHILIN: One must be careful to make reminders for himself about making an Eruv Tavshilin today! Hakhel’s Eruv Tavshilin Review can be accessed at the following link: http://tinyurl.com/43svvmg This Review contains important halachic information about the Eruv Tavshilin.

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LESSON TO THE WORLD! Rabbi Eliyhau Schneider, Shlita, pointed out to us that beginning Wednesday night, bli ayin hara hundreds of thousands of people across the world will not be using a cell phone for three full days! This is true testimony to the dedication of K’lal Yisrael to Kabalas Ohl Malchus Shomayim--teaching mankind a higher level of human existence!

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A TREMENDOUS NEW OPPORTUNITY FOR THE NEW YEAR! SPREAD THE WORD! VERY IMPORTANT PROGRAM FOR MEN AND WOMEN--IN TISHREI/CHESHVAN/KISLEIV!: As we will begin 5778, we provide our readers with a noble and important project. By the following link http://tinyurl.com/yaj3ovf9 we provide a Three-Month Calendar, providing a short daily dose of the classic Mussar Sefer, Sefer Sha’arei Teshuva by the Rabbeinu Yonah. With these short daily installments over a three month period--one will actually conclude the Sefer in graduated steps over the first three months of the year! Please spread the word…and the link!

Hakhel Note: Be mezakeh your Shul by printing this out in card form.

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FLOUR ALERT! In past years, after baking challah or kneading the dough, some have noticed insects in the challah or dough, and have had to dispose of the food and their hard work with it. We are not currently aware of any current insect advisory with respect to flour--however, “an ounce of prevention” is in order as the heavy challah and cake baking season begins. Below are the recommendations of a Rav HaMachshir expert in this field:

1. Especially buy flour from a store that has a high product turnaround so that the flour has not been sitting on a shelf or in storage for a while.

2. Even if the flour is ‘pre-sifted’--the label may also state that it is recommended to be sifted. One should not treat this recommendation lightly--as in the post-summer period that we are in there are higher levels of infestation.

3. The specially packaged ‘Wonder Flour’ is an excellent choice--because of the excellent seal that is placed around the flour when produced.

4. Flour should be sifted with a 70 mesh sifter. The electric Pelematic sifter is highly recommended for large amounts.

5. Since whole wheat flour cannot be sifted, one should place several samples of the flour on a plate and then scatter the flour around and look for black or crawling objects.

Hakhel Note: For any particular Shailos, one should consult with his Rav or Posek.

ROSH! HaRav Dessler, Z’tl, explains that Rosh means ‘head’ and just as the head of a body contains the mind which controls and runs the entire organism (and if there is a problem in the head, the rest of the body is affected as well), so too, is Rosh Hashanah--the head of the year essential for the health and well being of the rest of the year. The more that one is successful in his Avodah of Rosh Hashanah--the more successful he will be the entire year!

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HONEY!: HaRav Gamliel Rabanovitch, Shlita, explains part of the symbolism of honey on Rosh Hashanah. Why do we need honey--after all, everything that Hashem gives to us is sweet, for no one cares about us and knows what is best for us in all circumstances more than Hashem. The truth however is that we do not always recognize, we do not always “taste” ,this sweetness. With our honey, honey cake, tzimmes, and other honey products during the Yemei HaDin, we ask Hashem to shower us with those kinds of sweet things during the coming year in which we ourselves can actually taste, and savor the incredibly powerful and delectably delicious sweetness!

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SHIRA! In the Torah (Devorim 31:19), we learned that Moshe Rabbeinu was instructed to “Sima Befihem--to put the Torah into our mouths.” A Rav once explained that just as with a person who can be fed by others, but must swallow on his own, so too can the Torah (with all of the modern technological advancements and publications which assist us) be put into our mouth--but we still must ingest it on our own! Additional Note: HaRav Dessler, Z’tl, explains why the Torah is suddenly referred to as Shira, especially when it comes to the Mitzvah of writing a Sefer Torah. If we were to simply view Torah study as a requirement, an obligation, the right thing to do, or the like--then it is not a Shira, a song to us, and it will be difficult for it to be 'written'--to have a Kiyum within us, and for the next generation. We should reflect upon and appreciate the beauty and sweetness of Torah--the Shira of Torah! For this is Torah study that is ‘written down’--that lasts and is everlasting!

Hakhel Note: Here is Shira in practice--FOUND YESHIVAS MAICHAYIL EL CHAYIL IN YOUR SHUL OR COMMUNITY: For the last several years we have seen the great success of Yeshivas Maichayil El Chayil--where men, boys, and fathers and son, COME BACK TO SHUL after a post Yom Kippur Seudah to study Torah for 45 minutes or an hour to show their rededication for the new year to the Mitzvah of Talmud Torah which is KeNeged Kulam. To spur the boys on, gifts and a raffles for Seforim and Yom Tov prizes can be offered--and those donating the funds for the prizes, and purchasing them certainly have a Chelek in Talmud Torah DeRabbim--on Motzai Yom Kippur! Please bring in your Shul or community--and what a sweetening Zechus it will be for you and yours in the Yemei HaDin! Please contact us if you have any questions.

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SHOFAR ALERT: Some of the custom of reciting or looking at Yehi Ratzons after the initial blowing of the Shofar on Rosh Hashanah morning. These Yehi Ratzons mention the names of Malochim. Rabbi Ezra Rotkin, Shlita, has brought to the community's attention a Teshuva from the Minchas Elazar who teaches that in some Machzorim--censors or other meshumadim were able to r'l implant oso ha'ish in the first Yehi Ratzon! The Artscroll and other more recent Machzor publications of the Machzor have removed this blight--but if you are using an older Machzor or know someone that is--and you recite or look at these Yehi Ratzons--please beware!

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SPECIAL MESSAGE! The three Tefillos of Malchiyos, Zichronos and Shofros are parallel to the three Yesodos HaEmunah of Metziyus Hashem (Malchiyos), Sechar VeOnesh (Zichronos), and Torah MiSinai (Shofros). As we recite these very special Brachos, let us do so slowly and meaningfully--every word, every Pasuk is important! Our careful following of the Chazzan’s repetition of each of the ten Pesukim of Malchiyos, Zichronos and Shofros is as if we recited them again! Remember--This is a great part of the essence of Rosh Hashanah, and we will discuss it a bit further below

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A NEW KABBALA OPPORTUNITY! The Chofetz Chaim writes that when a person recites the words VeAhavta Es Hashem Elokecha, he should think about the Greatness of Hashem and how He gives life to all worlds, in comparison to one’s own smallness--and by this a person will recognize the goodnesses and gifts that Hashem constantly bestows upon him from the time he was born and through eternity. If a person cannot focus on this during the Shema, the Chofetz Chaim continues, then at least he should try to think about it one time a day, and he suggests that this time may be after davening before one eats--just as other Mitzvos like Tefillin or Lulav, which one does not eat prior to their performance. What a wonderful pre-breakfast thought!

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NOTES FOR EREV ROSH HASHANA:

A. Shlomo HaMelech, the wisest of all men, teaches us in Mishlei that “Yiras Hashem Tosif Yamim--the fear of Hashem provides us with additional life.” It would be totally appropriate for us now to feel some real nervousness, some real fear before the Yom HaDin. Of course, as we have pointed out, the fear should be coupled with a joy of knowing that our Teshuvah, Tefilah and Tzedakah can extricate us from a Din that we might chas veshalom otherwise deserve.

B. Specifically with respect to Tzedakah, Rabbi Jonathan Rietti, Shlita, points out that the words ‘miser’ and ‘misery’ are too closely related for comfort. On the other hand, HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, rules that post-dated checks when given to a Tzedakah are counted for your immediate Zechus now before the Yom HaDin. Let us take the time now to give additional Tzedakah, so that Hashem will, Middah K’Neged Middah treat us with additional Tzedakah on the Yom HaDin.

C. If one asks for forgiveness now, and does not wait until Erev Yom Kippur, he has most certainly increased his merits prior to the Yom HaDin. May we additionally suggest that one make a special effort not to annoy others with his conduct or speech, for if one treats others with courtesy, pleasantness and caring, there is a Middah KeNeged Middah for him to be blessed with the same. Hakhel Note: The Chofetz Chaim (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 606, Sha’ar HaTziyun 8) provides us with a truly amazing teaching. He rules that if someone forgives his friend for something his friend did against him b’meizid u’bimered--maliciously or intentionally--then Hashem will forgive him even for the Mezidin--the intentional acts that he commits.

D. Please remember to have all clothing that will be worn on Rosh Hashanah checked for Shatnez. Shatnez clothing inhibits Tefillos from rising to the Shomayim (as discussed in detail in Praying with Fire II). If there is any doubt whatsoever as to any item of clothing for men, women, or children, it is urgent that they be checked before being worn on Rosh Hashanah.

E. There is the story of a Russian citizen walking in the dark in the middle of the night. The Russian army soldier ordered him to stop once, twice, and three times, but he did not. Finally, the soldier said: “In the name of Nikolai the Great I order you to stop!” but the citizen did not stop. The soldier shot him in the leg and then learned that the gentlemen was no terrorist or criminal, but a person who did not want to be bossed around for nothing. When the citizen sued the soldier for hurting him--the soldier’s answer--accepted by the court--was: “If all else failed, when I ordered him to stop in the name of Nikolai he should have.” We must recognize that the time has now come for us to stop and realize the importance of the moment. As HaRav Dessler advises, if one would only take a look back at the events of the prior year--he must realize that they all emanated from the several days ahead of us. Let us use them wisely--and to their utmost!

F. The Poskim remind us that we dare not get angry on Rosh Hashanah--and Hashem will hopefully act in a similar manner towards us--Middah K'Neged Middah...and may it be a Siman Tov for the year! Let us begin practicing today--on Erev Rosh Hashanah!

G. The Maharal (Gevuras Hashem Chapter 51) writes that the word “Shanah” (year) comes from the word “Shinui” (different, change) because each year is (or, at least, should be) different than the previous one. Following this concept, Rosh Hashanah is the beginning of the time of change. In fact, the Shulchan Aruch (Orach Chayim 603) brings a conduct change that it is customary to undertake during the Aseres Yemei Teshuva (eating only Pas Yisrael breads, cakes, pretzels, etc.). However--why is this conduct change limited to the Aseres Yemei Teshuva and not extended for the whole year? We know of two possible responses:

Response One: The changes, while limited, demonstrate to the person the he can break previous “hergel”, day-in, day-out habits and practices. Yes, it is hard to get out of a rut (coming late to Shul, hurting others with words, tossing brochos out of the mouth), but one can and one must do so. The real bottom line is – If I am not for myself, who is for me--and if not now when?

Response Two: When a new employee starts to work, he is sure to go well above and beyond the call of duty the first few days (arriving early, doing extra jobs, etc.). Certainly, at this time of year, when you now realize you are working for the King of the entire World and Universe, you will do your absolute UTMOST. By undertaking the specific Aseres Yemei Teshuva changes, and by doing additional mitzvos-by going above and beyond the call of duty-we demonstrate that we are working for the King anew, which is a nice step in the right direction. If we can keep the awareness going…we will even “Keep the Change”!

H. REMINDER--From HaRav Dessler in a letter to his son in 5695: “…My dear son, please remember what is before you, the Day of Judgment, which requires great preparation. You must daven from the depths of the heart to arouse Rachamei Shomayim that we merit Heavenly Assistance, and that Hashem gives us success in attaining Teshuvah from the depths of the heart, for this is the ikar through which we can emerge innocent in justice B’Ezras Hashem. (Michtav M’Eliyahu Volume 4, page 313).”

Additional Note: Chazal teach us that the Navi Hoshea was taught that he should have pleaded to Hashem on behalf of K’lal Yisrael with the words Bonecha Haim, B’nei Chanunecha, B’nei Avraham Yitzchak VeYa’akov--Galgeil Rachamecha Aleihem!” We too must plead on behalf of Hashem’s children--who are the children of the Avos and our brothers as well! A Rav asked us to focus our readers’ attention on the beginning words of our Selichos daily--KeDalim U’cheRoshim Dofaknu Delasecha--we are all impoverished as we seemk Hashem’s compassion. We should recognize that every person has his own pekele of issues and difficulties--AND DAVEN NOT ONLY FOR OURSELVES BUT FOR EVERY MEMBER OF K’LAL YISRAEL. There are those with physical problems, mental problems, Shalom Bayis problems, Parnassah problems, Shidduch problems--there are so many issues--we must expand our “me” our “I” to encompass those who are one with us. During the Selichos Period and over the Yomim Noraim we are not only davening for ourselves! Let us make the effort to open our hearts far and wide--and may Hashem open the door even farther and wider!

Remember, there are no limits to what we can accomplish with Siyata D’Shmaya, and just one sincere Tefillah can get us there!

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NOTES FOR ROSH HASHANAH:

A. There are several reasons why challos on Rosh Hashanah are round:

(a) It is a Siman Tov, because round objects don’t have an end, symbolizing Arichus Yomim--life where there is no end in sight!

(b) The round shape symbolizes unity among us--a King needs a unified nation!

(c) The round shape is the shape of a crown. This serves to remind us that even while eating our meal, we are involved in the Malchus of Rosh Hashanah.

B. FROM A READER: “Rabbi David Ordman told an audience of women at Um Ani Homa in Bnai Brak that the best preparation for Rosh Hashanah is gratitude. When we feel hakaros hatov for all that Hashem gives us, it brings us closer to Him and our awe of His greatness increases. Rav Ordman recalled that Rav Elyashiv, Z'tl, once asked his son to teach him the correct English words to thank his American surgeon. When his son responded that he would be happy to thank the doctor in his father's name, Rav Elyashiv informed him that hakaros hatov may not be delivered by a shaliach and cited as proof our davening Shemone Esrei. The congregation can be yotzei with every bracha along with the shaliach tzibur except for one—Modim!”

C. Chazal teach that one who answers Amen properly is granted length of days and length of years. Over Rosh Hashanah, perhaps we can try to improve our Amen response. With Amen, you affirm that Hashem is your ‘Kel Melech Ne’eman.’ There are additional Kavanos as well, depending on what you are responding to, regarding which you can consult your Rav or teacher.

D. The Zohar (Parashas Noach) teaches that when we answer “Amen, Yehei Shemai Rabba” with all our strength, Hashem “becomes full of mercy” for us. May we therefore suggest that, especially over the Yomim Noraim, when answering “Amen, Yehei Shemai Rabba” in Shul you look into the Siddur and concentrate on the words.

E. Especially when davening on Rosh Hashanah, starting with Adon Olam, and throughout the davening, search for the word “Melech” and reflect from time-to-time on Hashem’s Malchus relationship with you. One should also realize that with Hashem’s Malchus comes the awareness that despite one’s apparent wealth, one has nothing and owns nothing but for the beneficence of the King, and should humble himself in Prayer. For further elucidation of this concept see Sefer Tomer Devorah Chapter 9 (Malchus).

F. HaRav Shlomo Volbe, Z’tl, reports that Rebbi Yisrael Salanter, Z’tl, would be “Ma’arich Meod--spend considerable time” with the words in Shemone Esrei of “Kasveinu BeSefer HaChayim LeMa’ancha Elokim Chayim”--for this is the hope of a human being that his life be imbued with LeMa’anecha--with fulfilling true purpose and meaning in life. We do not want to only live--we want to live life to its real fullest. Additional Note: HaRav Wolbe asked HaRav Yechezkel Levenstein, Z’tl, what to tell his students on Rosh Hashanah. After many minutes of silence HaRav Levenstein told him “Zug Der Bnei Yeshiva Uss Iz A Ribbono Shel Olam in Der Velt--tell them that there is a Ribbono Shel Olam in the world.” If one keeps this life-guiding thought on his mind, he will be focused and he will succeed.

G. HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, explains that when we ask Hashem to remember the Akeidas Yitzchok, we are not asking Hashem to recall a gigantic event of the past--but rather, a metziyus in Ruchniyus that was created by Avrohom Avinu at that time and continues through our day--it is a metziyus of Mesiras Nefesh of Avrohom Avinu and Yitzchok Avinu to do the will of Hashem. By referring to it, we connect ourselves to the Mesiras Nefesh of the Avos which still exists in the world.

H. In truth, the Ruchniyus of our deeds--for the good and for the bad--also continue on in the world and do not dissipate after the Mitzvah, or r’l aveirah, has been performed. When one does Teshuvah then, explains HaRav Friedlander, he is not erasing an event of the past--he is eliminating the current metziyus of negative Ruchniyus that exists as a result of the sin. Teshuvah transforms any inappropriate Ruchniyus that was created and exists into a Ruchniyus that gives Nachas Ruach to Hashem. It is essential that we realize and act on this on Rosh Hashana

I. Regarding the concept of crying during one’s Tefilos on Rosh Hashana, one should be sure to consult with his Rav. One thing, however, is certain--whether or not one cries tears, one should certainly cry out.

J. HaRav Leib Chasman, Z’tl, asks why it is that of all of the possible Chapters of Tehillim to recite before Tekias Shofar do we recite Chapter 47, which is LamNatzeiach Livnei Korach. He importantly answers that this Chapter reminds us of the Bnei Korach who were saved at the last possible moment from going to the depths of Gehennom. Thus, with an earnest Hirhur Teshuva one can still now, a very short time before Din, save himself as the Tekios are blown!

K. Rebbe Yisrael Salanter, Z’tl, in the Sefer Ohr Yisrael writes that the time of Tekias Shofar, when one is judged on his deeds, is like the time that the Kohein Gadol entered the Kodesh HaKodashim. Accordingly, during the time of Tekias Shofar, one should consider himself-- and feel--as if he in the innermost chambers of the Bais HaMikdash. One must, of course, have Hirhurei Teshuva before entering.

L. The Yesod V’Shoresh HoAvoda (Sha’ar 11, Chapter 3) writes: “And with each and every Tekiah that a person hears from the Tokea, he should with great joy think--‘With my listening to this Tekiah, I am fulfilling a Mitzvas Asei of Hashem, and I want to give Hashem Nachas Ruach with this.’

M. Rabbi Shlomo Pearl, Z’tl, teaches that even slight daydreaming may lead a person, who is otherwise listening to the Tekias Shofar, to not realize which blast is actually being blown. This may result in his losing a Mitzvas Asei DeOraysa on this great day. Accordingly, he urges each one of us to keep his finger in the Machzor on the Shofar blast that is then being blown. Additional Note: Lehalacha if one steps out after the initial 30 blasts to use the facilities, he does make an Asher Yatzar, notwithstanding that the 100 blasts have not yet been completed.

N. As we hear the order of Tekiah, Shevarim, Teruah, Tekiah, we realize that the first sound may represent us in our current state--solid--believing that we are doing pretty well as a Shomer Torah U’Mitzvos in a spoiled, degenerate and perhaps even decadent environment and world--and that our behavior is really a Tekiah. However, upon a little thought, reflection and analysis represented by the Teshuva process--we arrive at Shevarim, we break ourselves down a little bit and realize that there really is something to correct. Once we have opened up the thought process enough, we get to Teruah, in which we thoroughly break through, shattering our self-contained aggrandizements and illusions--and realize that much work is to be done for us to reach our true and great potential. If we go through the process of Tekiah, Shevarim, Teruah--then we will be able to complete it with another Tekiah--a new and different Tekiah of advancement in Avodas Hashem. If one repeats the process enough--he can complete it in its entirety-- resulting in a Tekiah Gedolah!

O. We briefly noted above the tremendous significance of Malchiyos, Zichronos, and Shofros We must remember that the most essential part of Tefillas Mussaf both for the individual in his recitation of Mussaf silently, and in the Chazaras HaShatz, are the 10 Pesukim of Malchiyos, the 10 Pesukim of Zichronos, and the 10 Pesukim of Shofros. One should very much endeavor to understand the meaning of the words of each of the Pesukim as he is reciting them. It takes time. One must also be very careful to follow the Shatz as he recites these Pesukim--as although they follow many Piyutim, and one may be tired, they are actually the most essential part of the Chazoras HaShatz. These Pesukim are extraordinary, for through them one accepts upon himself Ohl Malchus Shomayim, and through them Hashem remembers us for the good. Remember--Hashem in His abundant kindness, gives us the opportunity to recite theses Pesukim on our own, and then to carefully listen to the Shatz recite them again. If you are a Shaliach Tzibbur, who has already put great Kochos into the meaningful Piyutim, please remember that when the Mishna in Maseches Rosh Hashanah talks about Tefillas Mussaf it talks about these Pesukim as the essence of Mussaf--so please recite them meaningfully, with deep feeling and intent.

P. We present below the essential words of the Sefer HaChinuch teaching his son both about Rosh Hashanah, and about the meaning of the blowing of the Shofar. The following is excerpted from the masterful translation of the Sefer HaChinuch by Rabbi Charles Wengrov (Feldheim Publishers).

First, with respect to Rosh Hashanah (Mitzvah 311):

“… on this day all human beings in the world are judged for their deeds. Chazal said by way of imagery--to make it clear that His providential regard extends over the activity of every single individual, and not over the species in a general way--that all human beings pass before Him like sheep in single file--in other words, one by one, and not mingled together.

“Well, at the root of the precept of this holy season lies the theme that it is of God’s kindnesses toward His human beings to recall them and regard their deeds one day in every single year, so that the iniquities should not become a great many, and there should be room for atonement. Abundant in His kindness (Exodus 32:6), He tips [the scales of justice] toward loving-kindness, and if they [the sins] are few, He pardons and clears them away. And if there are wrong deeds among them that require cleansing, He exacts payment for them bit by bit, in keeping with what Chazal taught (Avoda Zara 4A): ‘From his friend, a man will collect his debt bit by bit.’ But if He would not call the sins to account for a long time, then they [the sins] would become so very many, until the world would almost incur destruction, Heaven forbid.

“Consequently, this distinguished day ensures the endurance of the world. It is therefore fitting to make it a festival day that it should be in the list of the precious holy times of the year. However, since it is the ordained time for everyone alive to be judged, it is proper to behave then with reverent fear and awe, more than on all other holy times of the year. This is the reason for the theme of the ‘memorial of the Shofar—sound’ (Leviticus 23:24) mentioned with it: for the teruah (Shofar--sound) is a broken call, to intimate that everyone should break the force of his evil inclination and have remorse for his bad deeds.”

As the Sefer HaChinuch continues his instructions to his son with respect to the Mitzvah of Shofar (Mitzvah 405):

“At the root of the precept lies the reason that since man is a creature of physical matter, he is not aroused to things except by something stirring, in the way that people at the time of battle will sound horns and even shriek, in order to be well aroused to war. Then so, too, on the day of Rosh Hashanah, the beginning of the year, which is the day determined of old for all those who came into the world to be judged on it... For this reason everyone needs to arouse his nature to entreat mercy for his sins from the Master of mercies; for Hashem is gracious and compassionate, forgives iniquity, wrongdoing and sin, and absolves those who turn back to Him with all their heart. Now, the sound of the Shofar greatly stirs the heart of all who hear it, and all the more certainly the sound of the teruah, which means the broken (quavering) peal.

“Apart from the arousal that is inherent in it, there is a reminder for man to break the impulse of his heart that is evil with the cravings and sinful matters of the world, as he hears the broken (quavering) sounds. For every person, according to what he sees with his eyes and hears with his ears, will prepare his heart…This is why R. Yehudah said: ‘On Rosh Hashanah, a shofar [horn] from male animals is to be blown’--in other words, the bent (curved) horn of rams, so that a man should remember when he sees it that he is to bend his heart in subservience to Heaven...”

Hakhel Note: It is clear from the Sefer HaChinuch that it is our mission at this time of year to experience feelings, true feelings. Feelings of love, feelings of fear, feelings of awe, feelings of reconciliation, and feelings of happiness. We must take a few moments to close our eyes and come to ourselves, perhaps with a few tears to show for it. It is interesting to note that there may be both tears of sadness and tears of joy, but they are both tears--for they both represent what lies within us being brought forth.

Let us properly prepare for Hashem’s Kingship over the world, by first experiencing kingship over ourselves!

We must remember how precious the moments on Rosh Hashana are, and when we feel we are tiring, refresh ourselves--as we pray for our lives, the lives of Klal Yisrael and the lives of the world!

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WE CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HILCHOS SHABBOS SERIES:

A. This Shabbos is known as ‘Shabbos Shuva’ with the word Shabbos coming before the word ‘Shuva’ in order to teach us the preeminence of Shabbos even over matters which could otherwise help us with our Teshuva process.

B. The Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 423, seif katan 2) writes that on each one of the days of the Aseres Yemei Teshuva a person should look into his ways relating to his activities over the year on that particular day of the week. Perhaps this is easiest to do for Shabbos, in which a person’s schedule and activities are usually fixed. A person should reflect: What mistakes did I make in Hilchos Shabbos last year? What improvement will I make to my Shabbos table? How can I improve my Shabbos Tefillos? What special Parashas Hashavua commentary will I bli neder undertake this year? Will I be careful to eat Melave Malka on Motza’ei Shabbos? This Shabbos is the time to have these special thoughts and make some Shabbos decisions! Hakhel Note: As this is the first Shabbos of the year--let us make sure bli neder that we are mekabel Shabbos on-time--or even a few minutes before the time. May it be a Siman Tov for one’s Kabbalas Shabbos for the rest of the year!

C. In this week's Haftara, the Navi Hoshea (14:2,3), after urging us to do Teshuva (Shuva Yisrael!) immediately instructs us on how to do Teshuva with the words “Kechu Imachem Devorim Veshuvu El Hashem--take words with you and return to Hashem”. We must take our words with us--we must realize (as the Vidui Booklet points out) that a GREAT NUMBER of the sins we mention in the Vidui of Yom Kippur have to do with misuse and abuse of that great power that distinguishes us from animal--our power of speech. The Chofetz Chaim teaches that if we are more circumspect with our speech, we can be free of the following Issurim:

1. Lashon Hara--brings many, many other aveiros along with it and can destroy relationships, families and lives

2. Rechilus--as above, and perhaps even more hurtful to the person

3. Sheker-while Hashem's seal is Emes!

4. Chanufa--including egging on...'you're right!'

5. Laitzanus--mockery, poking fun, ridicule

6. Ona'as Devorim--hurtful or insulting words

7. Halbanas Panim--one reader pointed out that embarrassing another in public causes one to forfeit his share in Olam Haba--and then asked if this is so --is this the greatest aveira--even greater than Chillul Hashem....

8. Divrei Ga'avah--words of arrogance--even though the sign of greatness is humility (Iggeres HaRamban)

9. Divrei Machlokes--fighting, argumentative words

10. Divrei Ka'as--words of anger that you won't be able to take back.

Perhaps we can keep this list around near a place(s) where we can look at it before we are about to make a statement or comment, or have a conversation, that is not within our usual manner of speech. Remember the VERY FIRST words of instruction of the Navi--Kechu Imachem Devorim--VeShuvu el Hashem! May you hear your success--with your very own ears!

Hakhel Note: As noted above, if you can free yourself of an Aveira--you will then be reciting the Vidui exclusively on behalf of someone else (as Kol Yisrael Areivim Zeh LaZeh)--so you will be fulfilling an additional mitzvah of VeAhavta LeRayacha Kamocha!

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HILCHOS SUKKOS! We provide two halachos for each of today, the two days of Rosh Hashana, Shabbos and Sunday:

1. The spine of the Lulav (the shedra), and not the Lulav itself, must be at least sixteen inches, and must be one tefach (four inches) more than the Hadassim and Aravos when tied together (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 650:2). Many people think that only the Lulav need be taller, but actually it is the spine of the Lulav that must extend so that the Hadassim and Aravos must stop four inches below the highest point of the shedra--which is the point at which the centermost branch last splits.

2. All of the Daled Minim must be properly acquired--from the most expensive Esrog through the most reasonably priced Aravah. This means that when one ‘is left with’ purchasing fresh Aravos on Erev Sukkos, he must be sure that the person selling them has the authority to sell them and is of an age who can legally transfer ownership of an article that he has acquired. If one is not careful with his Aravos in this regard, he will not be Yotzei the Mitzvah of the Daled Minim--notwithstanding that the other three minim may be perfect(!) (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 649)

3. On the first morning of Sukkos, one recites two brachos over the Daled Minim--Ahl Netilas Lulav and Shehechiyanu. He should not shake the Lulav until after he has recited the Shehechiyanu. The Bikkurei Yaakov writes that one should make the brachos over the Daled Minim before davening in the Sukkah ahl pi kabbalah and also to demonstrate zerizin makdimin lemitzvos. Certainly, even for those who have the custom to wait until immediately prior to Hallel in Shul to recite the brachos, it is best to daven K’Vasikin so that one can perform the Mitzvah as close to sunrise as possible. However, even if one is not davening K’Vasikin, the Seder HaYom writes that if it is the Minhag of one’s Shul to recite the bracha in Shul together before Hallel, one should not deviate from the Minhag. The Bikkurei Yaakov adds that in such an instance it is best for a person to come home after davening and shake the Lulav in the Sukkah (SA OC 644, Mishna Berurah seif katan 3 and Dirshu Note 1).

4. In order to be yotzei the Mitzvah of Daled Minim per se, one need merely pick up the Minim and put them down, without even performing na’anuim. If one has done so, it is still better to at some point pick them up again and shake them in accordance with his Minhag. In all events, the more one holds the Minim because they are precious to him, the more he demonstrates his Chibuv HaMitzvah (it is for this reason that some do not put the Minim down immediately after Hallel, but keep holding the Minim until after Kaddish Shaleim following Hallel). When one holds the Minim in a holder, it is considered as if he is holding them directly, as he is doing so to demonstrate honor and respect for the Mitzvah. (SA OC 652:1, Rema; Dirshu Notes 8 and 11).

5. Although there is an opinion that one should not pick up his Lulav and Esrog the first night of Sukkos, as it is not yet time for the Mitzvah to be performed and they would otherwise be Muktzah, most Poskim rule that the Daled Minim may be picked up and moved on the first night. In fact, it is known that the Ba’al Shem Tov, Z’tl, and Rebbi Yisroel Salanter, Z’tl, would practice the na’anuim on the first night of Sukkos in preparation for the morning. Rebbi Yisroel explained that we should look at the military which undergoes training and exercises in preparation for the actual battle, so that when the time comes, their actions are conducted with care and precision. Most certainly, he continues, should we do the same for the na’anuim, which is an “Avodah Gedolah LeYotzreinu Bechol Tenu’ah U’Tenu’ah--a great service to our Creator--with each and every movement!” (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 658, Dirshu Note 4). Hakhel Note: Let us remember that we are performing an Avodah Gedolah during the na’aniim!

6. The Bikkurei Yaakov writes that the Old City of Yerushalayim has, according to the Rambam, the Halachos of the Beis HaMikdash as to Lulav--which would mean that on all seven days of Sukkos, even in our time, it is a Mitzvah D’Oraysa to take the Daled Minim there. HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl, when going to the Kosel on Sukkos day [apparently, other than the first day], would accordingly take the Daled Minim a second time--for perhaps he was now fulfilling a Mitzvah D’Oraysa of Daled Minim--in addition to a Mitzvah D’Rabbanan of Daled Minim he had performed earlier in the day. It is reported that HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, was nota lehachmir to the opinion of the Bikkurei Yaakov. The Chazon Ish, Z’tl, ruled not to enter into the Old City because of this safek, because perhaps one would have a Mitzvah D’Oraysa to fulfill the Daled Minim, and his Daled Minim would not be kasher--resulting in his voidance of the Mitzvah. HaRav Moshe Feinstein, Z’tl, disagrees with the premise of the Bikkurei Yaakov, and writes that even according to the Rambam, the Mitzvah D’Oraysa is only in the Beis HaMikdash--and not in Yerushalayim--which would mean that the Old City outside of the Beis HaMikdash has no special rule in our day with respect to the Mitzvah of Daled Minim (ibid., Dirshu Note 1).

7. One should physically join together the Lulav and Esrog when reciting the bracha and when shaking them. The Aruch HaShulchan rules that one should join them together when reciting Hallel and the Hoshanos as well. The Kaf HaChaim brings from the Radvaz that one’s fingers around the Lulav or around the Esrog would be considered a chatzizah, a separation between the Lulav and the Esrog, and that accordingly, one’s fingers should not be totally wrapped around them (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 651:11, Dirshu Note 80).

8. When one places his esrog back in a nylon or plastic container on Yom Tov, isn’t he being molid reiach--creating an esrog odor in the lining and in the box? The Be’er Moshe rules that it is not--for it is not the derech b’nei adam to benefit from the minimal amount of fragrance that the temporary containers absorb and emit (see Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 658, Mishna Berurah seif katan 7 and Dirshu Note 7).

9. It is a Hidur Mitzvah to use new aravos every day of Chol HaMoed (Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 137:6).

10. A Lulav is Muktzah on Shabbos, and one may not move it l’tzorech gufo u’mekomo--even if one needs the place that it is in (ibid. 137:7).

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28 Elul

Hakhel Note: Be mezakeh your Shul by printing this out in card form.

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SPECIAL RESOURCE: We provide by the following link http://tinyurl.com/ycbxr5bd a wonderful Rosh Hashana Handbook for your distribution to the currently less affiliated--as made available by Partners in Torah--Mi KeAmcha Yisrael!!

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ERUV TAVSHILIN: One must be careful to make reminders for himself about making an Eruv Tavshilin tomorrow. Hakhel’s Eruv Tavshilin Review can be accessed at the following link: http://tinyurl.com/43svvmg This Review contains important halachic information about the Eruv Tavshilin.

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FROM A READER: “Rabbi Paysach Krohn, Shlita, recently spoke at a public gathering and brought an idea from the Bobover Rebbe that Elul also stands for ”Echad L’Chatas V’Echad L’Olah”. One person can look back at his past year and summarize it more as a year of “chatas”, a year from which he really must make improvements in the coming year, Another can look back and be satisfied with how the past year went, it was a year of “olah”, of elevation. Either way, though, Elul must be a time in which the person is never satisfied with the status quo; the person must be striving to do better. We all have the potential to be great. No matter how one looks back at past year during Elul, whether as year of missed potential, or a year of proud achievement, everyone can push themselves to do more.”

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HASHEM HANICHBAD: Many of us may believe that the word ‘Hashem’ simply means “the Name”--and refers to our G-d without wanting to pronounce His name. In fact, the word Hashem may actually be derived from the Torah, in which the phrase “Hashem Hanichbad V’Hanorah Hazeh Eis Hashem Elokecha” (Devorim 28:58) is used in the Pasuk itself. Thus, the one word ‘Hashem’ may simply be an abbreviated way of referring to this entire phrase of the Torah. In any event when mentioning the word ‘Hashem’ we can think of the entire phrase to inspire us with the proper honor and awe!

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THE CHEERFUL FACE: Rebbi Yisroel Salanter, Z’tl, taught that a person should be careful to not walk around in these days of judgment with a forlorn or somber face, for one’s face is seen by others--it is a Reshus HaRabim--and one has a duty to make others happy, not sad. The Ba’alei Mussar emphasize that one should show Panim Meir’im, a cheerful face, in order to encourage those around him. In doing so, one can go much further in helping himself by helping others. One should always serve Hashem in awe--and in joy!

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SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT: What does one think when listening to the Shofar blast? One suggestion, found in the Sefer Kav HaYashar (Chapter 48) is that one plead: “Chaneinei, Chaneini Hashem…”. One should speak further with his Rav or Posek of the Kavannos and/or thoughts he should have when hearing the Shofar’s unique sounds.

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DON’T MISS THE OPPORTUNITY! HaRav Shmuel Berenbaum, Z’tl, teaches that the midah ra’ah which leads to all other midos ra’os is atzlus--laziness. Laziness does not only mean that one has trouble getting up in the morning. It can also include the failure of one to exert himself or extend himself a bit more than he has until this point. Simple examples could include picking up one’s Siddur rather than having it rest on the table--if this will help one have more Kavannah; raising one’s hand in order to kiss one’s Tefillin periodically during davening; running or walking at a faster pace when one is in sight of a Mitzvah; taking the time to look up or ask about a Halacha that one is unsure of… The world is a world of opportunities--the better that we are at acting upon them, the greater and more important the world is to us!

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DON’T RUN AWAY! Over the next two weeks we will be hearing serious and important words of guidance, chastisement and rebuke. One may feel that he really does not need to listen to all of this--as he knows best what he needs to correct and what he must do to implement it. One should, however, overcome these feelings and recognize that whatever he reads and whatever he hears is meant for him, B’Hashgacha Pratis, to read or to hear--and can be applied in some way. HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita, relates that the Brisker Rav, Z’tl, was once visiting the town of Mir with one of his sons, who attended the Yeshiva there during their stay. One day, the son came home early from Yeshiva, and the Rav inquired as to why he had come home before seder ended. He replied: “It is now Mussar seder--so I left.” The Rav looked at him and responded: “There may be a disagreement as to whether Mussar should be instituted in Yeshivas to begin with--but once the seder is there, one does not run away from it!” Hakhel Note: Let us take the lesson to heart!

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SPEECH FIRST: The Chofetz Chaim writes: “HaDibur Hu Ashro VeHatzlachoso Shel Adam--one’s speech is the source of his achievement and his success.” We should not let ourselves down in what is our pride and joy. In fact, we can help ourselves in the area of Lashon Hara in a very important way. Many believe that if someone who he is speaking in front of already knows about somebody else’s issue, he can continue to speak about it, because it is already known. This is not so, and the Chofetz Chaim consistently emphasizes that the cheit of Lashon Hara gets worse and worse with the more people who hear it, and even if a person has heard it once, his hearing it again (and again) can solidify his belief of the item, or add new details which he did not know before. Two people who can legitimately talk about an event or situation should not talk in front of others, whether on the telephone or in person, if others will be listening--even if that person (such as a sibling or friend) knows what the issue is.

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IMPORTANT QUESTION AND ANSWER ON TESHUVA:

QUESTION FROM A READER: Can you find a mekor to inform us of a proper Teshuva for one who missed Brachos Rishonos and Brachos Achronos?

ANSWER FROM HARAV PINCHOS BODNER, SHLITA, MECHABER OF THE HALACHOS OF BROCHOS: This is an excellent and timely question. I have not personally seen any Rishonim or Achronim who discuss this issue per se. However, since the question begs to be answered, I offer my own thoughts on the matter. The basic requirement for Teshuvah for any wrongdoing is well-known: Regret for what was done, verbalizing the sin (Viduy), and accepting on oneself to act correctly in the future. The Mishna Berurah writes in his introduction to Hilchos Shabbos that there is no way that one can observe Shabbos properly without learning the Halachos. It stands to reason that acceptance of making brachos properly cannot be accomplished without a resolve to spend at least a few minutes on a daily or regular basis studying the Halachos. There is, however, another requirement for Teshuvah in this case. The Gemara relates: (Brachos 35B) Reb Chanina bar Papa said “Anyone who derives pleasure from this world without making a bracha is (in a sense) stealing from Hashem, stealing from his fellow Jew, and a comrade of Yeravam ben Nevat.” By neglecting to make the bracha, he not only withholds the expression of gratitude due to Hashem, he also causes the flow of abundance to be withheld from his fellow Jews. We know that if someone steals, it is not sufficient just to repent--he must also return the money or compensate the victims. How does one compensate for somewhat withholding the flow of abundance to his fellow Jews? The Shulchan Aruch (Choshen Mishpat 366) states that the Teshuvah for persons who stole from the public is to fund a community need that will benefit the victims. Thus, he could donate to a food or clothing distribution organization, or to an organization that assists persons with obtaining a livelihood, etc. (The money should be given in a quiet or anonymous manner, so that he should not receive recognition or honor for his ‘donation’).

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REALITY! The Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 606, Sha’ar HaTzion, Note 8) rules that if one forgives a friend for something that the friend had done intentionally, then Hashem will also forgive him for what he had done intentionally--Midah K’Neged Midah! The Chofetz Chaim proves this from the following Pasuk in Micha (7:18): “Noseh Avon V’over Al Pesha--Who forgives intentional iniquity and passes over intentional sin”, which Chazal interpret to mean “Lemi Noseh Avon, Lemi She’over Al Pesha--whose intentional iniquities are forgiven…the one who passes over another’s intentional sins against him.” Hakhel Note: In this regard, Rabbi Ezriel Erlanger, Shlita, provides the following exceptional insight: “Most people are not excited to hear about Yom HaDin. People have anxiety. That is because they approach Yom HaDin with emotion, but without the proper understanding. The basis of the world, the concept upon which the world was founded and exists, is Din or justice. This is not negative. It is, instead, a statement that the world is not free, and that the world has a purpose. If Hashem wanted us just to receive without action, He would simply give and give and give--as He is All-Good. Instead, Hashem wants something to be demanded of us, so that it elevates us. If we are Ma’avir Ahl HaMidos, we look away at what others have done to us, and we are not makpid, then Din--then justice--the world order, dictates that Hashem will do likewise. If we give Tzedaka to others, then Hashem will give Tzedaka to us. Succinctly stated, if we say that we do not want to do anything, then we are not living in the world’s reality.

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BEIN ADAM L’CHAVEIRO TO PONDER: We must remember that when it comes to sins which are Bein Adam L’Chaveiro, we have a totally different Cheshbon, and we must seek pardon from our friends before we come to Hashem. To help jog one’s mind in this regard, we provide below a short list of items to consider and reconsider:

· Have I disturbed another person while he was learning?

· Have I disturbed and deterred another person while he was doing a Mitzvah?

· Have I scoffed at, degraded or not paid proper attention to another as he shared a D’var Torah or personal Chidush with me?

· Have I allowed loose lips to reveal someone’s private information or secret?

· Have I misappropriated or borrowed without permission--even if I thought that I was justified in doing so?

· Have I embarrassed anyone in public (including relatives or children)?

· Have I been makpid, standing on ceremony or on principle because of my honor?

· Have I been sufficiently concerned for the money and possessions of others?

· Have I suspected others who had in actuality done nothing wrong?

· Have I given bad advice because I did not have the time to think things through, or to look into the matter further or because I am opinionated?

· Have I honored reshaim?

· Have I not paid workers or rent on time, when it was expected of me?

· Have I made it my unwavering practice to stand up in front of an elder (60 or 70) when he comes into the room?

· Have I shown proper respect to Talmidei Chachomim in my Shul and in my neighborhood (and certainly to my teachers)?’

· Have I been there ‘as a friend’ to accept the Lashon Hara of another?

· Have I held back my hand from giving Tzedaka when the opportunity presented itself?

· Have I caused tza’ar to my spouse or to my friends?

· Have I been jealous of the wealth, honor or wisdom of others?

· Have I fought with others?

· Have I acted deceitfully towards others?

· Do I know what Sinas Chinam is, and if I do not, how do I know that I am not guilty of it?

Hakhel Note: Even though all of the above are Bein Adam L’Chaveiro, and one will need his friends’ forgiveness if he has violated any one of them, one should always daven (and continuously daven) that he not stumble in sins of Bein Adam L’Chaveiro--and that he successfully fulfill the Mitzvah of VeAhavta LeReiacha Kamocha each and every day!

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PRE-ROSH HASHANA ALERTS:

A. Rosh Hashana is in two days. It is said that a Chassidishe Rebbe once came to an inn in Elul and heard two gentiles talking. One said to another--”It’s planting time now--if you don’t do a good job planting now--what will you have to eat for the rest of the year?!” The Rebbe understood the message.

B. We provide by the following link - http://tinyurl.com/3ndysle a wonderful Malchus card based upon an incredible Shiur given by HaRav Shlomo Brevda, Z’tl. The card is supplied on a ‘four pages per sheet’ format, so that you can print-out on harder stock, and distribute in Shul. Let us excel this Rosh Hashanah in Kabbalas Ohl Malchus Shomayim!

C. As we continue to contemplate Hashem’s Malchus in preparation for the Yomim Noraim, may we suggest that one consider why we mention the word “Melech” in the bracha of Refaeinu in Shemone Esrei, and why we refer to Hashem’s “Kisei Kevodecha--Throne of Glory” in the bracha of Asher Yatzar. Indeed, it may be a good idea to reflect upon this very important notion for a moment every time we recite Melech in Refaeinu and Kisei Kvodecha in Asher Yatzar!

D. At this time of year, in which we seek a nullification of any difficult decrees against us, we note the primacy of answering “Amen; Yehei Shemei Rabba” with Kavannah as a special means for assisting us with our goals. We provide the following link - http://tinyurl.com/mnkaaz the words of HaRav Chaim Volozhiner, Z’tl, in the Sefer Nefesh HaChaim regarding this Kavannah and its potency. Now is an auspicious time to improve your “Amen; Yehei Shemei Rabba” by looking at the words in your Siddur/Machzor as you say them, reciting them aloud, and understanding each word as you recite it--with the intention of ever-increasing Kavod Shomayim the world. In addition to the Kovod Shomayim coming through your Tefillos being answered, you could very literally be bringing Yeshuos to yourself, your family, and all of K’lal Yisrael--and there are a lot of things that we need Yeshuos from both individually and collectively.

E. Chazal teach that if one says “Echta V’Ashuv, Echta V’Ashuv”--I will sin and repent, sin and repent--he will not be able to do Teshuva. Why not--as long as the Teshuva is the final step?! One answer may be because he will continue to do the aveira “just one more time and just one more time”--and he will not be able to end at the Teshuva stage. A reader advised us of the story of a smoker who because of blood clots r’l had a leg amputated. The doctor sternly warned him to stop smoking entirely, so that he would not have the same fate happen to his other leg. However, the smoker continued to smoke from time-to-time daily--based upon the ‘logic’ of ‘what could one cigarette do?’ We must realize that each aveira does damage, and that because one aveira leads to the next (aveira goreres aveira), the damage is multiplied many times over. Accordingly, one can never be in the mode of sinning and doing Teshuva and then sinning and doing Teshuva again--because if he permissibly allows the ‘first cigarette’--which is inherently destructive, and which leads to the next ‘just one more cigarette’.

Hakhel Note: The opposite, is, of course, true of Mitzvah performance. Each Mitzvah has incomparable inherent riches associated with it--and then leads to further Mitzvos multiplying the wealth many times over.

F. We are all searching for ways which will help us be Ma’arich Yamim--gain length of days. Chazal provide us with many different instructions which can help in this regard. See, for example, Megillah 27B-28A. The Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 79, seif katan 5), provides one instruction which we can all follow: “for one who is careful not to mention Divrei Kedusha in an unclean place--it is said about him U’Vadavar HaZeh Ta’arichu Yomim--and through this, one’s days will be lengthened! Let us remember this throughout the day--and gain life--simply by properly revering that which is holy!

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AN ESSENTIAL REMINDER: As we have previously provided in the past, the following is a brief summary of a powerful, meaningful, and practical Shiur given by HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita, relating to our Rosh Hashana Tefillah: Dovid HaMelech teaches in Tehillim (102:18) “Panah El Tefillas Ha’Arar Velo Vaza Es Tefillasam--Hashem turns to the Tefillos of one who is aroused and does not disregard their prayers.” Chazal (in the Yalkut Shemoni to this Pasuk) teach that this Pasuk refers specifically to the generations “which do not have a Kohen, a Navi, or a Beis HaMikdash to achieve Kappara for them, but rather what is left for them is the Tefillos that they supplicate on Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur.” Thus, according to Chazal, our Tefillos over the next several days are our Kohen, our Navi, our Beis HaMikdash to achieve Kappara, atonement.

HaRav Salomon points out that our Tefillos on Rosh Hashana seem to be especially marked with the Malchus of Hashem, and do not appear to leave room to incorporate our personal needs or requests. HaRav Salomon said that “we asked the Steipeler, Z’tl, whether one can make his own private Bakashos, his personal requests on Rosh Hashana.” The Steipler responded that generally speaking this is a Machlokes between the Poskim who allow it, and the Mekubalim who teach that one should drive away his own needs on behalf of the Malchus of Hashem, and not act like dogs who bark out, “Hav, Hav--give, give.” The Steipler continues that according to all opinions--even according to the Mekubalim--a person can make his personal appeals, his personal requests to Hashem on Rosh Hashana if they relate to Kavod Shomayim, to Kiddush Hashem. If one just wants to be given this, or given that, he should not make the request. However, if, for example, he wants to learn or daven better to enhance his relationship with Hashem, for Hashem’s honor; or if, for example, he wants to earn a Parnassah, so that he can fulfill the Mitzvos in a more beautiful way--then he is showing an appreciation of life which is a life LeKavod Shomayim. This is a request which is befitting for Rosh Hashana.

Based upon this great teaching of the Steipler, HaRav Salomon implores us all to compose our own personal Tefillos for Rosh Hashana, relaying to Hashem what we need and how it will bring Kavod Shomayim. We should then recite our self-composed Tefillah (which can be in English) in Elokai Netzor at the end of Shemone Esrei--preferably before “Asei LeMa’an Shemecha--do it for the sake of Your Name”--which demonstrates that your request truly is for the sake of Hashem’s Name. HaRav Salomon concludes and urges: “Don’t lose this priceless opportunity! Write down on a piece of paper what requests you will make from Hakadosh Baruch Hu at the end of Shemone Esrei. Discuss it with your spouse, what do you really need, Parnassah, shidduchim for a child, more Kedusha in the house, more respect from a child, health etc. Fine tune that request list. Anything that is important to you should be put on the list, just keep in mind that the end of the Tefillah is, Asei LeMa’an Shemecha…Asei Lema’an Kedushasecha…you are assured if the requests are for the Kavod of Hashem, for increased Kedusha, they will certainly be granted!”

Hakhel Note: Please reread this note--and take action!

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HILCHOS SUKKAH! Today, we continue to provide two Halachos a day on Hilchos Sukkos. The following notes are excerpted from the Dirshu Edition of the Mishna Berurah, Volume VI:

1. One is required to promptly remove used food containers from the Sukkah. Although when one finishes Shalosh Seudos close to the end of Shabbos during the year, one generally does not clean off the table so that it is not a hachana for after Shabbos, HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, rules that it is permissible to remove the used utensils from the Sukkah in such a situation, because it is clear that one is doing so for the Kavod of the Sukkah--and not as a hachana for after Shabbos (ibid., Dirshu Note 7).

2. HaRav Nissim Karelitz, Shlita, rules that it is permissible to bring a trash container into the Sukkah when cleaning it, provided that he takes it out as soon as he has completed cleaning (SA, OC 639, Dirshu Note 6).

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27 Elul

SPECIAL HILCHOS SUKKAH ALERT: A Rav asked us to alert our readers to an important Halacha, which may not be well-known. Many will be building their sukkahs over the next few days to add this merit before Rosh Hashana. The Mishna Berurah (Orach Chaim 626, seif katan 18) writes that when placing the sechach on Sukkah, one must be careful that any awning or shelach over it is not in place at the time, for if it is in place--when the awning or shelach is removed at some later time, the sukkah has been built in violation of Ta’aseh Velo Min Ha’asui, as it was not a kosher sukkah when the sechach was placed (because of the overhang or covering) and is only rendered kosher upon the removal of the overhang or cover. If one has built a sukkah this way, the sechach must be placed down again properly. See the Mishna Berurah there for further detail.

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A TREMENDOUS NEW OPPORTUNITY FOR THE NEW YEAR! SPREAD THE WORD! VERY IMPORTANT PROGRAM FOR MEN AND WOMEN--IN TISHREI/CHESHVAN/KISLEIV!: As we begin 5778, we provide our readers with a noble and important project. By the following link http://tinyurl.com/yaj3ovf9 we provide a Three-Month Calendar, providing a short daily dose of the classic Mussar Sefer, Sefer Sha’arei Teshuva by the Rabbeinu Yonah. With these short daily installments over a three month period--one will actually conclude the Sefer in graduated steps over the first three months of the year! Please spread the word…and the link!

Hakhel Note: Be mezakeh your Shul by printing this out in card form.

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L’ROSH VELO LEZANAV: On Leil Rosh Hashana, at one of the simanim, we are mispallel that we will be a Rosh and not a zanav. We may typically understand this to mean that we daven to be at the top or leaders, and not at the bottom or the end. We actually find the term L’Rosh VeLo Lezanav in Devorim 28:13. There, the Targum translates rosh as takif (strong), and zanav as lash (weak). Accordingly, we should have this Kavannah in mind as well when reciting this Yehi Ratzon. “Hashem, may You please grant us a year of strength and not of weakness!”

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WELCOME TO THE LAST THREE DAYS OF THE YEAR! May we especially excel and stand out in our honesty, integrity and Kiddush Hashem as we enter and continue this practice into the New Year. Ask yourself: Will this be one of my primary Kabballos? Additional Note: Because of the great importance of these last three days, the Yetzer Hara will undoubtedly work overtime to make one feel upset, depressed, angry, and even strangely to “get in” those last Aveiros of the year before the awesome day of Rosh Hashana begins. These days are the days in which we can show our Gevurah, and end the year on a most positive note by not falling prey to his tactics and guile, and instead filling the days with Mitzvos and Ma’asim Tovim, in a good temperament and in positive preparation…for the first day of the New Year 5778!

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LASHON KAVOD: On Rosh Hashana, we will be judged as Torah Jews, and as to how Torah Jews should conduct themselves. Of primary importance is not only what we speak about, but how we speak. The Ba’alei Mussar write that one should speak B’Lashon Kavod--honorably at all times. If one keeps this in mind, he can avoid many volatile and challenging situations. You are an honorable human being--and you speak that way!

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GET CLARITY! The Sefer Sha’arei Teshuvah notes that Tefillah is an essential part of Teshuvah. Not only does this mean that we are to daven to Hashem for forgiveness, writes the Sha’arei Teshuvah--but we must daven to Hashem, asking Him to help us in the Teshuvah process. Every person needs to gain clarity as to the Teshuvah that he should be doing.

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PLEASE CONSIDER! As we move closer to Rosh Hashanah, we must remind ourselves of the essential teaching of Chazal: “Mitzvos She’Adam Dush B’Akeivov Misavevin Lo B’Sha’as HaDin--the mitzvos that a person ‘steps upon’ surround him when he is being judged.” Let us think about what “being surrounded” at the time of judgment means.

Picture a city in siege, a prisoner surrounded by guards, a cowboy surrounded by Indians. There is simply nowhere to go, no room to escape. It is a very, very difficult situation. It is our job to make some holes--preferably gaping holes--in the encirclement, in the siege, in those mitzvos that we “step upon” in our daily life by curing them, healing them, fixing them. What “stepping upon” a mitzvah could entail may be treating the mitzvah either lightly, not carefully enough, or not with the degree of respect that it deserves.

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NACHAS RUACH! A wonderful project to start today and continue for at least 30 days (which will take you to Simchas Torah) is to do one Mitzvah or Ma’aseh Tov a day which is for the express and only purpose of giving Nachas Ruach to Hashem.

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AVINU MALKEINU! We refer to Hashem as Avinu Malkeinu, and we typically interpret Avinu (our Father) as the kind adjective and Malkeinu (our King) as the stricter adjective. This is not necessarily the case. Malkeinu also means that Hashem is All Powerful. Just as one comes to a king with a request that only a king can grant, we come to Hashem making our requests as someone who is a loyal subject now--even if we need to be pardoned of past disloyalties.

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WE PROVIDE A FEW BRIEF NOTES BELOW FROM THE SEFER KOVETZ HALACHOS: YOMIM NORAIM BY RABBI DONIEL KLEINMAN, SHLITA, CONTAINING THE PESOKIM OF HARAV SHMUEL KAMENETSKY, SHLITA:

A. One must recite Birkas HaTorah before reciting Selichos.

B. It is better to recite less Selichos with Kavannah, than more without Kavannah--however one should always be careful to recite the 13 Midos together with the Tzibbur.

C. We wash and take haircuts on Erev Rosh Hashana to demonstrate our faith that Hashem will perform a miracle for us and find us innocent on Rosh Hashana. Even though one may take a haircut a day or two before Rosh Hashana, it is still a greater Kavod Yom Tov to take it Erev Rosh Hashana itself.

D. One need not recite Hataras Nedarim on Erev Rosh Hashana in the morning--one may recite it the night before as well.

E. The most important part of the Simanim is to Be Me’Orer BeTeshuvah when one recites the Yehi Ratzon. As a matter of fact, even if one does not have the different species--he can still recite the Yehi Ratzon because the ikar is the Tefillah and Bakashas Rachamim. Note: Rabbi Kleinman adds in his notes that since the Simanim are all for a Siman Tov, the Mishna Berurah emphasizes that all the more so should we be careful not to anger in these days--so that this too will be a Siman Tov for the coming year!

F. There are different customs as to whether one recites the Yehi Ratzon with Hashem’s name (i.e., Hashem Elokeinu Vailokei Avoseinu) or not. If one has made a Bracha on the food item, he should eat a little bit before reciting the Yehi Ratzon. Otherwise, he should recite the Yehi Ratzon before partaking of the food.

G. The term ‘egozim’ may include other types of nuts as well such as almonds and peanuts. However, if a food is baked or cooked with any nut items, it is not an issue. With respect to peanut butter, HaRav Kamenetsky, Shlita, distinguishes between creamy peanut butter (with no peanut pieces), which is permitted, and chunky peanut butter, which is not permitted.

H. As the Mishna Berurah states: “When reciting Avinu Malkeinu the words Ro’ah Gezar should be recited together.”

I. When hearing the Tekios DeMe’umad, one should not be leaning on anything.

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HILCHOS SUKKOS! Today, we continue to provide two Halachos a day on Hilchos Sukkos. The following notes are excerpted from the Dirshu Edition of the Mishna Berurah, Volume VI:

1. Some Poskim rule that on the Yom Tov of Sukkos one should place a tablecloth only on his table in the Sukkah, and not on his table in the house--in order to indicate that the house is not his dira over Sukkos. Others, however, hold that one can put a tablecloth on even in the home LeKavod Yom Tov (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 639, Dirshu Note 4).

2. Some have the custom of kissing the Sukkah’s walls when they enter and leave the Sukkah, as a sign of Chibuv HaMitzvah…VeAshrei Me She’oved Hashem BeSimcha--fortunate is the one who serves Hashem with joy! (ibid.; Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 477, Mishna Berurah seif katan 5, quoting the Shelah HaKadosh).

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24 Elul

SHABBOS, THE 25^TH OF ELUL IS THE CELEBRATION OF THE BEGINNING OF THE CREATION OF THE WORLD, AS MAN WAS CREATED ON ROSH HASHANAH--SIX DAYS LATER. LET US APPRECIATE THE GREATNESS OF THE WORLD’S ANNIVERSARY--AND USE THE OPPORTUNITY TO RAISE OURSELVES UP FOR THE COMING YEAR!

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PESUKEI D’ZIMRA: As we prepare for the great day of coronation, one should learn about and grow further in his appreciation of the Melech Malchei HaMelochim. One can accomplish this in a simple and straightforward way by reciting Pesukei D’Zimra with more feeling--paying more careful attention to the words. We do not have to travel to the Far East or ends of the globe in order to accomplish our potential and mission in life. Hashem provides the opportunities for us day in and day out wherever we are in our daily actions--and this itself is something else which should make us grow in our appreciation of all Hashem does for us!

Hakhel Note: Every day in Modim of Shemone Esrei we recite Nodeh Lecha U’Nesaper Tehilasecha (we thank You and we relate Your praise). While the thanks may be evident in Modim itself--when and where do we relate Hashem’s praise? One possibility may be…Pesukei D’Zimra!

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LESSON FROM THE TOES: In the sport of football, players are heavily padded and guarded because of the hard physical contact among players. The following lesson was provided by someone who used to follow the sport ‘many years ago’: “I recall that there was a star kicker who would not wear his football shoe when kicking the ball at kickoff. Instead, he would kick the ball eighty yards or so with his bare toes! How in the world was this possible? To this day, I don’t know. However, the lesson to me continues to ring true--if a person can accomplish so much beyond what one would think is possible physically--then all the more so, can we use our millions of neurons L’Sheim Shomayim and develop our Torah knowledge and our Mitzvah performance in ways which we literally didn’t think were possible!”

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ADDITIONAL LESSONS RECEIVED FROM READERS IN THE PAST:

1. “I get tremendous chizuk every day when, in the first bracha of Shemone Esrei, I recite the words ‘LeMa’an Shemo B’Ahava--that Hashem will redeem us for the sake of His name with love.’ As a parent, I know that I do things for my children even when they are undeserving. I do it out of love. This means that Hashem can redeem us even though we are undeserving--at any moment! I love the word B’Ahava!”

2. “We will soon say that Hashem is ‘HaTov V’Hameitiv Lara’im V’Latovim--to those who are bad and those who are good’. Shouldn’t it be ‘Latovim V’Lara’im’--with Hashem first doing good to the Tovim and then to the Ra’im?” Hakhel Note: We look forward to readers’ thoughts.

3. “HaRav Moshe Feinstein, Z’tl, teaches that an ikar of Teshuvah is learning b’simcha. I think that before one learns, he should do something to show how happy he is to have the opportunity to do the greatest Mitzvah of all. If nothing else--at least say: ‘Thank you Hashem for the opportunity!’”

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MENTSCHLECHKEIT: HaRav Naftali Kaplan, Shlita, explains that the basic thrust of Mitzvos Bein Adam L’Atzmo is mentschlechkeit. A person must ask himself: “Does it pahs (is it appropriate) for a Tzelem Elokim to do what I am doing or about to do?” We are faced with numerous situations during a day: Should I enter the elevator while talking on my cell phone? Should I eat standing up at a smorgasbord? Should I walk around at home not properly dressed even if ‘I am only going downstairs for a minute’? Should I laugh when a person embarrasses himself? One can think of other examples on his own. One must remember that Hashem did not create him as a rock, ant, deer, ape… One should regale in the fact that he is a Tzelem Elokim--and act the role in a way that our Elokim would be proud!

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PARASHAS HATESHUVA! We would like to remind everyone that non-coincidently, this week’s Parasha, Parashas Nitzavim, contains the Parashas HaTeshuva (Devorim 30:1-10). Many Siddurim contain the Parashas HaTeshuva together with a short Tefillah afterwards, and it is usually found immediately after Shacharis. It would most certainly be appropriate to recite the Parashas HaTeshuva and the subsequent Tefillah today…leading into Shabbos…and then on Sunday...leading into Rosh Hashana. We especially note that much of Teshuva has to do with thought and speech. By reciting the Parasha relating to Teshuva contained in the Torah itself, and then davening to Hashem for help in this regard, you are certainly taking important strides--in both thought and speech!

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WE CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HILCHOS SHABBOS SERIES:

A. As this is the last Erev Shabbos of the year, we may want to think about those Erev Shabbos activities we undertake that may have an effect upon others on Shabbos itself. For instance, if one living in America sends an email on Erev Shabbos to an uneducated Jew who lives or is vacationing in Eretz Yisrael or Europe where it may already be Shabbos--what are the potential issurim that he may be machshil the uneducated Jew in when he reads that email, and then responds by taking action such as making a phone call to a third party--or even simply by answering the email-- typing something in response and exacerbating his conduct clicking “To All” (remembering that an uneducated Jew is still obligated to perform all Mitzvos--whether D’Oraysa or DeRabbanan)? Similarly, if one sends a ‘cc’ or a ‘bcc’ of an email to someone ‘local’ before Shabbos, but that local person might take action because of the email on Shabbos, one may want to think twice about sending such an email close to Shabbos, before ‘closing up shop for the day’. Who would want the chilul Shabbos (perhaps even multiple chilul Shabbos) of another Jew on his head--even if the uneducated Jew would quite likely be mechallel Shabbos in some other way during the very same time period, and even if one could perhaps assert in his defense that he wasn’t the direct cause, etc.. Perhaps to rectify any prior misdeeds or borderline types of activities in this area relating to the great and holy Shabbos, one can talk about and explain Shabbos to not-yet-religious Jews, and be decidedly cautious in sending out emails on Erev Shabbos (and Erev Yom Tov)--especially in the afternoon. Remember, we are to be so careful with Hilchos Shabbos that we are proscribed from blowing the Shofar on Rosh Hashana when it falls out on Shabbos--as a gezeirah that someone may come to repair musical instruments. We certainly should be careful to avoid any culpability, responsibility or horrible feeling engendered by a non-thinking electronic communication with someone who does not yet know enough to fathom the transgressions he is committing with that seemingly innocent, cc’d email.

B. Likewise, as this is the last Shabbos of the year, it is certainly a time to be especially careful with our Kedushas Shabbos--zemiros, the way we speak, our care with muktza matters, looking up those Shabbos halachos we were unsure of and that we have meant to look up for a long time… and any Inyanei Shabbos that we know could use our personal improvement.

C. HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, was asked the following question: If it is forbidden to say Vidui on Shabbos, how can one do Teshuva--does he have to wait until after Shabbos to do Teshuva? HaRav Kanievsky responded that one should accept the other aspects of Teshuva upon himself--i.e., feeling sorry for what he has done, and accepting upon oneself not do the aveira again, and that the Vidui need not be done then. The only reason that one does not recite Vidui on Shabbos, he added, is because we don’t generally recite personal Tefillos on Shabbos, and Vidui would be similar to a personal Tefilla.

D. With the slower paced davening on Shabbos, or at least with the greater ability to start Shacharis a few minutes early if one needs more time--may we once again suggest a special focus on such words as “Melech”, “Chasdecha” and “Rachamim” this Shabbos? As we have pointed out in the past, the Sefer Mateh Ephraim, the great halachic handbook on the Yomim Noraim, refers to Elul as Yomim HaKedoshim. By connecting to the Yomim HaKedoshim of Elul on Shabbos Kodesh, we will have added a new and wonderful dimension of Kedusha to our lives. It is all there for the taking!

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THOUGHTS ON PARASHAS NITZAVIM:

A. The Parasha (29:9) begins with the words “Ahtem Nitzvaim HaYom Kulchem--we all stand before Hashem”. The Ba’alei Mussar explain that this is to teach us that this time of year nobody can hide behind the Rabbis, the teachers, the Tzaddikim, the leaders of the generation or anyone else--but that everybody, yes, everybody, from the woodchopper to the water carrier stands before Hashem and must accordingly do his part to come closer to Him and bring life and success for oneself and for K’lal Yisrael during the coming year!

B. The Pasuk (Devorim 30:12) teaches “Lo VaShamayim Hi--It is not in the heavens”….The Seforno learns that the Pasuk is teaching us that to do Teshuva one does not have to hear from a Navi or other heavenly voice—each and every person is capable of Teshuva on his own—using his own sechel and his own willpower!

C. The Ben Ish Chai explains the Pasuk in Nitzavim: Ki Karov Eilecha Hadavar Meod B’ficha U’vilvov’cha La’asoso, as follows: It is possible to fulfill all the mitzvos with your mouth (by studying them)--even those mitzvos that you cannot actually perform. The Kli Chemda (Parashas Tazria) cites a Gemara in Menochos (110a): It is written: This is the law of an Olah. The Gemara teaches: Anyone that studies the laws of an Olah is considered as if he brought a Korban Olah. What would be if a poor person would recite the portion dealing with the rich person’s Korbanos? Would it be regarded as if he brought the Korban? The answer may be gleaned from the fact that the Torah concludes the portion dealing with the rich woman’s Korbanos with the following Pasuk: Zos Toras HaYoledes--This is the law of a woman who gives birth. The Torah is informing us that the recital of this portion is sufficient for anyone, even for a poor woman. The Chofetz Chaim cites the Gemara in Bava Metzia (114b) that the Amoraim were fluent in Seder Kodoshim in the same manner as Seder Moed, Nashim and Nezikin. This is because Kodoshim was relevant to them since the learning about the Korbanos was regarded as if they actually brought a Korban. Implicit in his words is that for some reason this was only true regarding Seder Kodoshim and not to Seder Zeroim or Taharos which also has many halachos that do not apply outside of Eretz Yisrael and after the destruction of the Beis Hamikdash. The Taz in his Sefer Divrei Dovid maintains that the concept applies to all mitzvos and one who studies the laws of Zeraim, it will be regarded as if he gave Terumos and Ma’asros to the Kohanim and Levi’im and it will be considered as if he gave all the presents to the poor people. This is the explanation in Yaakov’s words to Esav “Im Lavan Garti,” which Chazal understand to mean that Yaakov kept all 613 mitzvos in Lavan’s house. There were many mitzvos that he was not able to fulfill at that time; it is evident that the studying of these mitzvos are regarded as if he fulfilled them all!

D. On the Pasuk (Devorim 30:14): “Ki Karov Eilecha HaDavar Me’od Bephicha U’vilvavecha La’asoso”, HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, learns that a person who wants to do Teshuvah should learn Hilchos Teshuvah. The Sefer Derech Sicha explains that the Chofetz Chaim in Chovas HaShemira (Chapter 3) teaches that learning the Halachos of a Mitzvah removes the Koach of the Yetzer Hara regarding it.

E. The Parasha (30:19) also provides the powerful teaching of “U’Vacharta BaChaim--and you shall choose life”. The Rabbeinu Yonah in the Sefer Sha’arei Teshuvah learns that this is a Mitzvas Asei from the Torah. Let us choose life--and fulfill a Mitzvas Asei in doing so!

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NOTES ON SELICHOS:

A. A Gadol once observed that people say: “I am going to ‘say’ or ‘recite’ Selichos.” In fact, however, one is really going to be “Mevakeish Selichos--one is going to plead with Hashem for His mercy and forgiveness.” Let us keep this in mind for the days of Selichos that follow.

B. HaRav Nosson Meir Wachtfogel, Z’tl, teaches that one should not skip Selichos--but one should spend time on those Selichos that arouse him more--for the tachlis of Selichos is to be aroused to Teshuvah!

C. We must remind ourselves that Chazal teach us that our supplication of the essential 13 Midos of Rachamim--does not return empty-handed. We accordingly provide by the following links the “plain meaning of the words” in both Hebrew by the following link -- http://tinyurl.com/2d63u8 and in English by the following link -- http://tinyurl.com/yq9k42 of the 13 Midos. We should study these words and their meanings (made available in the links, and from other sources such as the Artscroll and Metsudah Selichos) so that our supplications have more powerful and effective force.

D. Chazal (Bava Metzia 85A) relate that a calf being brought for shechita looked to Rebbi Yehuda HaNasi to help save him from his fate. Rather than empathize with the young animal, Rebbi Yehuda told him “Go, for with this you will fulfill your purpose in Creation.” Although Rebbi Yehuda was obviously factually correct in his statement to the animal, the Gemara there teaches that Rebbi Yehuda began to suffer yissurin--pain and affliction--for his failure to feel and display some sensitivity to, and mercy for, the creature. Indeed, the Gemara teaches, Rebbi Yehuda later showed true mercy to a chulda (a weasel), and his afflictions immediately ceased.

E. The Tomer Devorah (Chapter 3) writes that yissurin is a paradigm example of din--strict justice--for it represents what our lives would be like, and what we could be constantly subjected to, if we were taken to task for our iniquities. What prevents this din from befalling us is Hashem’s mercy upon us. His mercy upon us, in turn, is in direct proportion to our mercy upon His creations. As the Tomer Devorah teaches, “One should not disgrace or unnecessarily kill any creation, for Hashem’s wisdom is infused into them all--inanimate, vegetable, animal and man. It is for this reason that we are forbidden to shame food. Similarly, one should not uproot any plant without reason or kill any living thing without purpose...and demonstrate mercy to the greatest extent possible.”

Contrary to the opinion of the unlearned, the recitation of Selichos is not only for the “big sinners.” We--each and every one of us--need Hashem’s mercy very, very much, especially in times plagued by the din of previously unheard of tzaros, sickness and terror. We must respond with inordinate and extraordinary measures of mercy. Others may laugh at your avoiding pulling a leaf off a tree for no reason, or at using a plastic cup to pick up an ant in the kitchen, bringing it outside alive to its natural habitat. You, however, know better, for you recite three times daily in Ashrei (Tehillim 145:9), “His mercies are on all His works.” The word “all” is not to be taken or treated lightly.

It goes without saying that there are many opportunities to display sensitivity and mercy even before you get to the leaves and the ants. Taking the time to lift someone’s spirits, caring about the well-being of an elderly person in your neighborhood, smiling at the grim-faced. To test yourself, perhaps you can pick an hour during the day and work hard at especially applying your concern and mercy in the various situations that may come up during that time. You may learn and grow from the experience.

So, as we ask for mercy, we should commit to practicing it--from not stepping on a bug, to helping arrange a Shidduch in the morning, to offering someone a ride in the afternoon, to giving time over the phone at night to someone who had a hard day, to not throwing your clothing across the room--remember, we are in an especially auspicious period for character growth. May we excel at it!

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WE PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL POINTS AND POINTERS REGARDING THE CRUCIAL PERIOD THAT WE ARE IN:

A. We should try to remember that there are three elements to our lives--Bain Odom LaMakom, Bain Odom Lechaveiro, and Bain Odom LeAtzmo. We should definitely think about at least one aspect in each area in which to improve our lives in the coming year. In this way, our lives will simply become more complete. HaRav Yerucham Levovitz, Z’tl, makes a wonderful observation on the Pasuk we recently read in Devorim relating to the Bais HaMikdash: “LeShichno Sidreshu U’Vasa Shama--you shall seek the Shechina and come there [to the Bais HaMikdash].” HaRav Yerucham asks--shouldn’t the Pasuk have read in the reverse--U’Vasa Shama, VeShichno Sidreshu...You shall come there and seek the Shechina?! The answer, HaRav Yerucham writes, is that the Pasuk is teaching us that we must FIRST seek the Shechina --and only if we first seek the Shechina do we take the SECOND STEP of coming to the Bais HaMikdash. It is the time now of LeShichno Sidreshu--to seek the Shechina through our introspection and improved thoughts, words and deeds. If we can do this, if we yearn to grow in Ruchniyus, we will be zoche to the great SECOND STEP of U’Vasa Shama--we will get to the highest places of Kedusha. What a great guideline in every life activity--LeShichno Sidreshu!

B. The Orchos Chaim LaRosh teaches us the value of our words in a very special way--’Hotza’as Picha MaiHotza’as Mamoncha--one should be more careful taking the words out of his mouth than taking money out of his pocket. While this may seem an insurmountable task for the average individual in the course of his everyday life, one can certainly put this essential analogy into practice when he is in doubt as to whether to say something or not. Think about it from time to time as you take out your wallet or pocketbook!

C. More real Tachlis: We are almost at the time where at the forefront we will be pleading for nothing short of Chaim--life for ourselves, our families, K’lal Yisrael and the World. Let us consider that the Torah is also called the Toras Chaim--a living Torah, and that the Torah is in and of itself an Eitz Chaim--a Tree of Life to hold on to. In fact, Chazal in Mesechta Avos (2:8) teach us specifically that “Marbeh Torah Marbeh Chaim--the more Torah, the more life”. Remarkably, Rabbeinu Yonah writes in the Sefer Sha’arei Teshuva that “VeNasasi LeChol Hamakom Ba’avuram--and I will save the whole place for them” refers to those who study Torah and bring [further] life to the world. Perhaps it is for this reason that the Techilas Dino Shel Odom--the first judgment that a man must face after 120 years is over his Torah study--in a real sense, over how much he attached himself to life. No one can truthfully say that what Hashem has given him life until this point is because “Magi’yah Li--I deserve it.” What we can try to do, however, is take strides to be more deserving than we have been until this point. What makes us more deserving of life itself is Torah study--the Toras Chaim, the Eitz Chaim, the Marbeh Torah--Marbeh Chaim. We must accordingly highly recommend that all--young and old, men and women-- take some real and practical step to bring Torah closer to their lives--to spend a few extra minutes with Torah study each day and/or to improve the quality of our Torah study. If one is not careful to study even for a brief moment at his breakfast or dinner table--maybe he can bli neder commit to some form of Torah study at this special time ( a Mishna, a Pasuk, a Vort) --thereby indicating and acknowledging that even one of the key moments of daily bodily care is also dedicated to...life!!

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THE YAHRZEIT OF THE CHOFETZ CHAIM: Today is the Yahrzeit of the Chofetz Chaim, who serves as a driving force in all of K’lal Yisrael until today. The Chofetz Chaim teaches that when a person is accustomed to a particular middah ra’ah (bad character trait) and acts in that way in front of others, they copy him and he is held accountable for the negative influence he has had on their lives (see Yoma 86A, Rashi d’h kegon). Now, continues the Chofetz Chaim, it is known that Hashem’s rewards are greater than His punishments (Sanhedrin 100B)--and so, all the more so will a Mitzvah or middah tovah that one has and which is copied by others become a source of great merit for him--as he obtains a chelek in their Ma’asim Tovim. Hakhel Note: As an example, if one consistently uses his tongue for the power of the positive, complimenting, thanking, and really not speaking Lashon Hara, then others readily recognize (especially with a little encouragement!) that there is a standard to live up to and a beautiful reality to follow--and every time they do so, they bring merit to the originator! The Chofetz Chaim’s lesson to each and every one of us is that no one is isolated, no one stands alone. As we do Teshuvah in a particular area or in a particular way, let us take the words of the Chofetz Chaim to heart and bring those around us who may have had a similar fallibility or fault back with us--for our own merit and the merit of all of K’lal Yisrael!

We additionally provide a sampling of his essential teachings, excerpted from the excellent sefer Give Us Life, collected and edited by HaRav Mendel Weinbach, Z’tl:

1. Everything approaching its end summons all of its energies for a last stand. A candle’s brightest flame appears before it dies, and it is always darkest before dawn. The power of evil is approaching its end so it has summoned all of its resources and massed the greatest attack in history on the forces of good.

2. People often say “This world is also a world,” but the truth is that “Only this world is a world” because only here can a person improve and accomplish. This is the World of Action, the World to Come is only for the reward.

3. Good manners require a person to carefully prepare for an audience with an important official. If one is privileged to see the king, he takes several days to get ready. So if Chazal tell us that we must prepare for a lifetime before entering the palace of the King of Kings we must appreciate how supremely exalted this palace must be

4. The reward mentioned by the Torah for certain Mitzvos such as honoring parents is not their real payment for that is only due in the World to Come. The small reward we receive in the meantime is like the meals given to the king’s soldiers which are not subtracted from their pay.

5. Teshuva must be performed with great energy. A person should return to Hashem with at least the same degree of enthusiasm and energy with which he had sinned.

6. The greatest sinner will be called to account for the slightest wrongdoing because his terrible record is no license for further evil. The Rambam writes that the wicked King Yerovom will be punished for not fulfilling the mitzvah of Eruv Tavshilin.

7. Just as there are rich and poor, strong and weak, so do people vary in their talents and abilities in Avodas Hashem. The Torah therefore commands; “You shall love Hashem with your heart, your soul and your might--each man according to his particular powers. Additionally, the real meaning of “all your might” is whatever is most precious to you--Chazal knew that to most people money is the most precious item. However, to someone who Torah and Mitzvos is most precious, he must be prepared to sacrifice even these, if necessary, for the honor of Hashem. A Rosh Yeshiva, for example, must be prepared to sacrifice his own Torah study--his “all your might”--in order that Torah may flourish among his disciples.

8. An orderly, efficient shopkeeper knows exactly where each item in his stock is located and its precise value. An orderly Jew does every act with Hashem in mind because he knows that the simplest act--like the simplest ware--can bring a tremendous profit if it is used correctly.

9. I am neither a Chosid or a Misnagid. My only ambition is to fulfill what is written in Shulchan Aruch. Chazal teach that a person will be asked whether he set aside times for Torah study and whether he dealt honestly in business. There is no mention of ever being asked whether one is a Chosid or Misnagid.

10. If you should ask your wife for Shabbos Kugel on Friday she will suggest that you eat something else because “this Kugel is for Shabbos”. Honor is like Kugel and is only to be enjoyed on the day which is forever Shabbos--Olam Haba. If you eat the Kugel today, you may go hungry on Shabbos.

11. Even a small storekeeper keeps a record to know the small amounts that his customers owe him. Let us not fail to keep records of our life in this world--for it affects us for eternity.

12. A Torah supporter gives a few copper coins and the institution he supports gives him a share in an eternal Torah.

13. HaRav Yisroel Salanter, Z’tl, compared momentary interruption in Torah study to the uprooting of two feet of railway track from a line stretching for thousands of miles. Just as this seemingly insignificant act can wreak havoc upon the railroad, so too can a break in Torah study.

14. One of the signs given by Chazal of a madman is that he sleeps overnight in a graveyard. A man has the opportunity of returning from the grave to a new and eternal life by studying or supporting Torah. If he wastes this opportunity and remains forever sleeping in the graveyard, he is truly a madman.

15. What good is our Selichos if all we do is tell Hashem our sins? He knows them well enough already. Our duty is to resolve not to repeat our foolishness!

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HILCHOS SUKKOS: We continue our two Halachos a day in the 30-day period before Sukkos. We provide two Halachos for each of today, Shabbos and Sunday:

1. Why does the bracha of Leishev BaSukkah not have to be made while standing, as many other Birkos HaMitzvos? The Pri Megadim writes that just like the bracha over Hafrashas Challah can be made sitting because through doing so it is going to permit one to eat (which is done sitting), so too, the bracha of Leishev BaSukkah permits one to eat his meal in the Sukkah--and therefore it can be said sitting. The Pnei Yehoshua writes that only for a Mitzvah which is to be performed standing need the bracha be recited standing, but for a Mitzvah which can be performed sitting, the bracha over the Mitzvah can be recited sitting as well. It does not appear that the Mishna Berurah would agree with the explanation of the Pnei Yehoshua, as he rules that Megillas Esther can be read sitting, although the brachos must be recited while standing. Note: The Rambam rules that the bracha of Leishev BaSukkah should be recited after Kiddush, both of which are said standing, and the person should then proceed to sit down (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 643:2, Dirshu Note 3)

2. If one had already eaten Mezonos and made a Leishev BaSukkah, and now wants to be Motzi others with the bracha of Leishev BaSukkah as they are about to make Kiddush and start a Seudah, HaRav Aharon Leib Shteineman, Shlita, rules that he may do so (ibid., Dirshu Note 7).

3. When one enters the Sukkah to eat a Seudah, he should invite the Ushpizin verbally--for if he does not invite them, they do not come. The Ushpizin will also not come if money is not set aside for the poor for Sukkos (Yesod V’Shoresh HaAvodah 11:13; see also the Shelah HaKadosh, Mesechtas Sukkah). We note that the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch writes that it is a special Mitzvah to give Tzedaka on Erev Sukkos.

4.. Although one is not required to drink water in the Sukkah, if one is close to the Sukkah and would like to drink some water, HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl, teaches that it would appear that he should enter the Sukkah--for a Sukkah must be treated as a home, and just as a person close to home would wait until he gets home to drink, so too, should he enter the Sukkah in order to fulfill the Halacha of Taishvu Ke’ain Taduru--dwelling in the Sukkah as one dwells in his home (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 639, Dirshu Note 13).

5. The Elef HaMogen (in the Sefer Mateh Ephraim (626:18) writes that every minute that one spends in the Sukkah is a separate Mitzvas Asei M’Doraysa. (See also Yesod V’Shoresh Ha’avoda for a moving discussion as to how much one should treasure his moments in the Sukkah.)

6. On Yom Tov, we will be reciting the Bracha of Shehechiyanu both in the Sukkah and over the Arba Minim. It is important to once again review the words of the Sefer Ma’aseh Nisim (Rebbi Yaakov MiLisa, also known as the Nesivos), who explains the difference between the three words Shehechiyanu, Kiyemanu, and Higiyanu. The word “Shehechiyanu” refers to the physical life Hashem is granting us in spite of the difficulties and dangers of Galus. The word “Kiyemanu” refers to our eternity--Hashem has given us the opportunity of eternal existence through the performance of Mitzvos in this world. The word “Higiyanu” expresses our acute awareness that we are only here at the moment of the Bracha because of the true Chesed of Hashem. It is no small wonder then, that we are urged to recite this very meaningful Bracha with great Simcha and thanks to Hashem for bringing us to this moment so special in so many ways! Hakhel Note: Please note that the above may be used as we recite the Shehechiyanu on Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur as well!

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23 Elul

HELPING MAKE IT A GREAT END OF THE YEAR: One week from today is Rosh Hashana. This is the last week of the year. Let us do our utmost to make it a most successful one. To help, we provide by the following link -- http://tinyurl.com/3w5semv our flyer entitled HOW TO BE ZOCHE B’DIN. We urge you to make a real and special project of following Chazal’s ‘sage’ advice especially over the next week, and perhaps turn it into a family or more expanded project as well. If even only a little bit of Chazal’s guidelines can stick with us over the coming year--such as being freer with compliments, and in always looking at the flipside before judging someone (would I want to be judged in this way?!)--imagine what a purer person we will be at this time next year!

Hakhel Note: We once again provide by the following link-- http://tinyurl.com/6l5s2s a Tefillah to Hashem that you judge others L’Chaf Zechus.

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NOT A BEAR! In an issue of HaParasha B’Mechitzas HaChofetz Chaim, the Chofetz Chaim teaches that: “Teshuvah Iz Nit Kain Ber”--Teshuvah is not a bear. Importantly, the Chofetz Chaim is teaching us that Teshuvah is not something to be afraid of, and that it is not difficult. One must have remorse over a past aveirah, and accept upon himself not to do so in the future.

In fact, HaRav Nosson Wachtfogel, Z’tl, related that the Ponovezher Rav, Z’tl, was once traveling to Africa and asked the Chofetz Chaim what he could relate to the Jews there in the Chofetz Chaim’s name. The Chofetz Chaim answered: “You should tell them that it is easy to do Teshuvah--one has charata and a kabalah for the future. It is only the Yetzer Hara who tells people that it is difficult to do Teshuvah!”

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PARASHAS HA’OLAH: Chazal teach that a Karbon Olah is brought for not fulfilling a Mitzvas Asei, and for improper thoughts. In our current time, when we have no actual Korban Olah, Chazal teach (Menachos 110A) that being osek in the Parashas Ha’Olah stands in its place and stead (see Sefer Sha’arei Teshuvah, Sha’ar Daled). In the outstanding Siddur Tefillah L’Moshe, which contains notes by Rabbi Tzvi Yavrav, Shlita, of the teachings of HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, the Parashas Ha’Olah and relevant Tefillos are provided, and we provide them by the following link-- http://tinyurl.com/pzzj6w2 One should attempt to obtain the Siddur, for in it he will find much more wealth!

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SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT! In our Rosh Hashana Tefillos, we recite Yom Teruah Mikrah Kodesh Zecher L’Yetzias Mitzrayim. HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita, posed a straightforward but startling question: We understand how the Shalosh Regalim are rooted in Yetzias Mitzrayim. What, however, does Rosh Hashana have to do with Yetzias Mitzrayim--how is it a Zecher L’Yetzias Mitzrayim?! HaRav Salomon explains that, in truth, our experience at the Seder and over Pesach is supposed to leave a great and lasting impression upon us--to effect a change in our attitude. However, after the Seder, although one may feel uplifted, he does not really know what effect, what mark, the experience has made on his life. It is Rosh Hashana where the mark will be felt. The degree, the extent to which one feels that Hashem is omnipotent, and knows and sees all of one’s thoughts, words, and deeds, is the extent to which one has internalized the Yesodos HaEmunah that Yetzias Mitzrayim represents. Pesach is a time when we learn about Hashem’s power, Sechar V’Onesh and Hashgacha Pratis. Rosh Hashana is a time when we live our belief. Incredibly, HaRav Salomon continued that HaRav Chaim Brisker, Z’tl, taught that if a person does not learn parts of the Torah he is not an apikores--but if he does not know the Thirteen Ikarim--the Thirteen Ani Ma’amins, then he is! It is therefore of utmost importance that we review and understand the Thirteen Ikrim--and put them into practice in our daily life. The extent of our awe of Hashem’s Malchus on Rosh Hashana is indeed a direct result and outcome of the lessons of Yetzias Mitzrayim.

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THREE STEPS IN AVODAS HASHEM! There is a Pasuk in Tehillim (13:6) which serves as the climactic conclusion of the many Pesukim together that constitute the prayer and song of Hodu LaShem Kiru ViSh’mo recited in Shacharis every morning. The Pasuk reads: “V’Ani BeChasdecha Votachti, Yogail Libi Bi’Shuasecha, Ashira LaShem Ki Gomal Alai--As for me, I trust in Your kindness; my heart will rejoice in Your salvation, I will sing to Hashem, for He dealt kindly with me.” The G’ra explains that this Pasuk consists of three parts--representing three different stages or circumstances in a person’s experience. Firstly, there is the complete and absolute recognition and awareness that “V’Ani BeChasdecha Votachti”--I know and affirm that whatever circumstance, event, predicament or situation I am in (including the seeking of continued life in Elul and over the Yomim Noraim)--You can save me with Your loving chesed. Next, when I actually experience the salvation--such as on Yom Kippur, or upon realization that I have lived through the past year --then “Yogail Libi BiShuasecha”--my heart rejoices over the Yeshua--with the recognition that it is You that have brought it about, that You have saved me. Thirdly, and we have now reached the crucial conclusion--“Ashira LaShem Ki Gomal Alai”--even after the Yeshua is complete, the Simcha is over, the medicine worked, the money came in to pay the bills, I have been granted another year of life... I will not forget the Yeshuos that You have graced me with, that which You have wrought on my behalf. Accordingly, my davening--when I recite Modim, Nishmas, Nodeh Lecha (in Birkas HaMazon) is Kavannah-filled with my tribute and thanks for my health, my life, my possessions,...and all of the Yeshuos around and in between that I have experienced. As if to get us started (in Nusach Ashkenaz)--the very next portion of Tefillah that we recite is the epitome of our thanks over the past--Mizmor LeSodah--which the Shulchan Aruch itself uniquely rules (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 51:9) should be recited “BeNegina--with melody”. Let us focus on this essential Pasuk and remember daily these fundamental three steps in Avodas Hashem--and succeed at each one of them!

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HILCHOS SUKKOS: We continue our two Halachos a day in the 30-day period before Sukkos. The following notes are excerpted from the Sefer Nesivei HaMinhagim (Chag HaSukkos):

1. The Seder HaYom writes that the reason we are so careful to beautify the Sukkah is in order to demonstrate how happy we are with the Mitzvah, and our special Chibuv Hamitzvah--when one does so, his reward goes beyond that of simply building a Sukkah, for he demonstrates the Simcha V’Tuv Leivav that Hashem desires of us when we perform Mitzvos.

2. The Sefas Emes writes that because of the Shechina in the Sukkah, when one dwells in the Sukkah he himself imbibes Kedusha into his inner being. It is therefore inappropriate to play games in the Sukkah, or to allow other nations who cannot appreciate the Shechina to enter. Indeed, the Sheim MeShmuel writes that the reason we do not recite Shalom Aleichem in the Sukkah on Leil Shabbos is because the Malochim cannot enter the Sukkah because the Kedusha is so great!

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IN ORDER TO BETTER FEEL THE TIME PERIOD WE ARE IN, WE HAD ONCE PREPARED THE FOLLOWING TEST:

Question 1: You press the button on the elevator for the door to close and hit “3”. The elevator doors close, but the elevator does not move. You do it again, with the same result. The reason is…

A. The elevator doors did not stick properly.

B. You are not pushing the buttons hard enough.

C. The building owner did not pay his electricity bill.

D. Hashem does not want the elevator to move for you at this time.

Question 2: You go to the store especially to buy a container of milk--and there is none left. Now, you do not know how you or others will eat their cereal or drink their coffee. The reason is…

A. The truck driver did not deliver enough cases.

B. The cows did not produce enough milk in the last few weeks.

C. It is your tough luck.

D. It is a Nisayon for you to test your patience, and to see if you will get angry and unnerved.

Question 3: You thought you charged your cell phone all night, but it still won’t turn on. The reason is…

A. All these phones are made to break.

B. Your friend gave you a used battery.

C. It was made in China

D. Hashem is reminding you to make a cell phone Takanah

Question 4: You are selected over a group of other people for a certain position, or a certain project. The reason is…

A. It works by seniority.

B. You called the right people, and used your ‘pull’ wisely.

C. You have worked the hardest, and it is now paying off.

D. Your Parnassa was determined on Rosh Hashana for the year.

Question 5: Your knee has hurt the last few days. You woke up today and it stopped hurting as much. The reason is…

A. The Tylenol finally built up in your system to quash the pain.

B. The exercises that your friend told you to perform have worked.

C. You are not as old as you thought you were.

D. Every pain, in every increment, and in every location is determined by Hashem who is Hatzur Tamim Pa’aloh.

Question 6: You thought of your own P’shat in a Pasuk today, and you told it to a few friends who liked it, and even wrote it down. The reason is…

A. You are bright, and know how to ‘use your head’.

B. You finally got enough sleep

C. You must be a gilgul of a great person

D. Ki Hashem Yitein Chachma--Hashem gives you wisdom.

Question 7: You have a child who is in most areas difficult or impossible to deal with. He half listens when you ask him to do something, spends a lot of money and does not seems to realize it, and based upon what he knows in his homework is ‘wasting your money’ in tuition as well. The reason is…

A. It is some kind of family ‘bad gene’.

B. He was given an ayin hara when he was young, even though you don’t really believe in ayin hara’s.

C. This helps you balance out your stress--some at work and some at home.

D. Hashem wants to see if you can perform Chesed constantly, consistently, and in very aggravating situations.

Question 8: You received a reimbursement check in the mail from your insurance company from an overpayment that you made in the amount of $485.16. The reason is…

A. The insurance company’s computers are programmed to catch mistakes.

B. Your wife pays the bills and she was probably talking on the phone when she made out this check.

C. I also got my paycheck today--when it rains, it pours.

D. Hashem is giving you money to pay your debit balance at the supermarket, and now you even have a small credit--so now you don’t owe him money, and the supermarket owner receives what he needs as well.

Question 9: You woke up by yourself at 6:10AM--the usual time that you arise--even though your alarm clock did not go off. The reason is…

A. You have programmed your body to arise at this moment every day.

B. The garbage truck probably passed by and made a lot of noise.

C. You must have just ended a dream that you don’t remember.

D. You forgot to set the alarm, and Hashem gently stroked you so that you would not be late for Shul, so that you could get your child off to yeshiva on time, or so that you could keep to your daily schedule.

Question 10: Today, an otherwise nice person tells you “I haven’t seen you in a while--wow, you look older, um, um, but as they say you’re not getting older you’re getting better, um.” The reason is:

A. People are so quick to talk with their mouths, saying everything that comes into their minds. They have been poorly raised.

B. I have been working too hard and am too stressed out.

C. For me to know that I am not getting older, I am getting better.

D. Hashem it telling me that it is a week before Rosh Hashana, and B’EH I will be a year older in the coming year. It is a privilege to be a year older, but also a real responsibility to reach my potential. I must get older--and better!

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22 Elul

Hakhel Note: Be mezakeh your Shul by printing this out in card form.

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A PEARL OF CHESED: “People should treat others in the same way they would want others to treat them. (Chazal say: Just greeting someone with a friendly expression is like giving him all the gifts in the world, whereas all gifts in the world have no value if they are given with a sour expression).” [Excerpted from The Concise Ahavas Chesed The Classic Work of the Chofetz Chaim Adapted to a Daily Learning Schedule in English by Rabbi Asher Wasserman, Shlita]

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HE CAN’T STAND-IN FOR YOU! The Tosfos Yom Tov (end of Mesechta Rosh Hashana) explains that if a person is able to daven for himself, the Shliach Tzibbur cannot replace him: “…it is because one must ask for mercy by himself!” Who better than you and you alone knows the kinds of mercy you are looking for--and how importantly you need it. As we have emphasized many times, the word rachamim appears so often in our davening—even in places where one may not otherwise expect it. Especially at this time of year, one should make the effort to have kavannah when mentioning Hashem’s rachamim in Pesukai Dezimra, Birchos Krias Shema, and Shemone Esrei. Remember—not even the Shaliach can stand-in for you!

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ACQUIRE MANY NEW FRIENDS! Shlomo HaMelech, the wisest of all men, teaches in Mishlei (19:4), Hon Yosif Rei’im Rabim…. Taken on a simple level, this means that when a person attains wealth, he obtains many new-found friends. The G’ra, however, understands the pasuk on a deeper level. He explains that through the study of additional Torah, one obtains more and more malachim who are his ‘friends’ when it counts--for eternity--in front of the Bais Din Shel Ma’alah. This is so because with each and every word of Torah uttered, a Mitzvas Aseh is performed and a new and trustworthy ‘friend’ is created!

Hakhel Note One: The Chofetz Chaim, based upon this pasuk in Mishlei and the Gra’s explanation, writes that the great rule is: “HaDibur Hu Ashro V’Hatzlachaso Shel Adam…” speech is the source of happiness and success for a person if one uses it wisely. If c’v one does not—there is no one organ of the body that could do more damage than the tongue, for with each word of forbidden speech one creates a kateigor, an antagonist in front of the very same heavenly tribunal. The choice is ours—if we can sincerely focus on the words that we utter--we will most certainly and without doubt be wealthier than the wealthiest person imaginable to us!

Hakhel Note Two: The pasuk (Mishlei 16:26) teaches “Nefesh Ameil Ameila Lo–a soul that toils, toils for itself”. HaRav Michel Yehuda Lefkowitz, Z’tl, writes that Shlomo HaMelech is teaching us with the seemingly repetitive term that when one places effort into his Torah study he will not only attain the fruits of his labor—but Hashem will reward him with additional and unexpected Torah knowledge—as if he had toiled in that as well! HaRav Lefkowitz instructs that the first place to begin one’s efforts in Torah is to physically express the words of Torah that one is learning—and not merely read them with his eyes (see the Gra’s words above!). We must look at life practically--air is so important, so indispensable to live in this world--and it is free! Torah is not only indispensable in this world--but in the next--and Hashem will shower us with more and more of it at no cost, if we only put in the effort that we can!

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SIMHON LEVAV: HaRav Yecheskel Levenstein, Z’tl (in Sefer Ohr Yechezkel--Elul) notes that on Rosh Hashanah all of man is judged relating to his Olam HaZeh and his Olam HaBah--Hashem’s great books are open before Him. However, there are no secret investigations, and we are given a great amount of time to prepare our cases and to rectify our misdeeds. Yet, so many treat it as if it is only a matter of a few small coins that have, or may be, lost. How could this be so?! HaRav Levenstein, Z’tl, answers that this must be part of the curse of the tochacha in last week’s Parasha which states “Yakecha Hashem BeShiga’aon U’VeIvaron U’Vesimhon Leivav--Hashem will strike you with madness and blindness and with confounding of the heart” (Devarim 28:28). Rashi there explains that Simhon Leivav means Otem HaLev--the essence of the curse being that our hearts become sealed, and we remain thoughtless and thereby actionless in the face of matters of extreme urgency and importance. HaRav Levenstein concludes, however, that notwithstanding the curse, we can open our hearts--as is evidenced by the period of Elul (Ani L’Dodi where we demonstrate our love of Hashem) and the blowing of the Shofar--which is intended to open the blockage in the face of our awe and seichel. Hakhel Note: We add that the Chida, Z’tl (brought in the Sefer Otzros HaTorah) writes that Elul first begins with Ani LeDodi--I am to my Beloved Hashem and then-- Dodi Li--Hashem will be for me!

Hakhel Note: Another interpretation of the calamity of Simhon Levav is approaching matters in a confused or perturbed manner—without clarity and clear thinking. As we have noted in the past, there are three words in the Sefer Orchos Chaim L’Rosh which were especially emphasized in Kelm and recited in a special nigun- Ahl Tevahel Ma’asecha— do not act in a hurried or disconcerted manner. Calmness and orderliness are essential to making the right decisions and taking the right steps. If one has any doubt as to what to say, what to do, or what to think, in a particular circumstance or situation—think about and focus upon what would give Hashem the most Nachas Ruach!

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WE CONTINUE WITH POINTS AND POINTERS RELATING TO THE SUBLIME PERIOD WE ARE IN:

A. Upon reflection, we now have one week left until the last day of the year, Erev Rosh Hashana. There is so much to do, so much to think about, so much to look back upon--and to look forward to. How do we put it all together? Perhaps the first step is to ask Hashem for help--even for this! When reciting the bracha of “Ata Chonen” every day, think of how much you need Him to grant you the right insight, the right decisions, the right thoughts on self-improvement, the right goals…a tear (or complete sincerity) while thinking about the help that you need would appear very appropriate. Remember, it’s your life--and no one cares, or should care, more about it--than you!

B. As part of taking stock, one should not overlook the items or money he has borrowed or lent to others, who he owes a phone call or apology to, and, perhaps, that thing about him that he knows bothers people most, but that he has failed to correct because it is “him.” If one realizes that any mannerism or particular attitude really does irk family, friends, or colleagues, maybe it should become part of the “Nachpesa Deracheinu”--the search of one’s ways so essential to steering back to the proper path in life.

C. As we continue to contemplate Hashem’s Malchus in preparation for the Yomim Noraim, may we suggest that one consider why we mention the word “Melech” in the bracha of Refaeinu in Shemone Esrei, and why we refer to Hashem’s “Kisei Kvodecha--Throne of Glory” in the bracha of Asher Yatzar. Indeed, it may be a good idea to reflect upon this very important notion for a moment every time we recite Melech in Refaeinu and Kisei Kvodecha in Asher Yatzar!

D. At this time of year in which we expand our efforts in search of a Good Year, and in which we seek a nullification of any difficult decrees against us, we note the primacy of answering “Amen; Yehei Shemei Rabba” with Kavannah as a special means for assisting us with our goals. We provide by the following link -- http://tinyurl.com/mnkaaz the words of HaRav Chaim Volozhiner, Z’tl, in the Sefer Nefesh HaChaim regarding this Kavannah and its potency. We remind our readers that now is the time to improve your “Amen; Yehei Shemei Rabba” by looking at the words in your Siddur/Machzor as you say them, reciting them aloud, and understanding each word as you recite it--with the intention of ever-increasing Kavod Shomayim in the world. In addition to the Kavod Shomayim coming through your Tefillos being answered, you could very literally be bringing Yeshuos to yourself, your family, and all of K’lal Yisrael--and there are a lot of things that we need Yeshuos from both individually and collectively.

E. The Rambam in Hilchos Teshuva specifically enumerates 24 items which are “Me’Akvin Es HaTeshuva--which are obstacles to Teshuva,” making Teshuva more difficult. Please see there for the entire list. We will only mention one of these Teshuva obstacles at this time: ”Sonei Es Hatochachos--one who does not like to be reprimanded.” Over the next several weeks, we will be hearing many Drashos and Shiurim by our Rabbanim, and many of these Shiurim may have involved great, dedicated and directed preparation by the Rabbanim. We should make the effort, at each and every one of these Shiurim (whether we are attending “voluntarily”, or whether it is a drasha in middle of davening) to apply something practically to ourselves from what is being said. Remember, it is Hashgacha Pratis that you are being presented with these words. Do not be a Sonei Es Hatochachos! Instead, demonstrate your desire and ability to grow from each and every learning experience that Hashem provides you during this extremely opportune time!

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HILCHOS SUKKOS! We continue our two Halachos a day in the 30-day period before Sukkos. The following notes are excerpted from the Sefer Nesivei HaMinhagim (Chag HaSukkos):

1. The Be’er Heiteiv (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 630) brings the Maharil who taught that the Sukkah boards should be placed in the same order and position as they were in the previous year--just as the boards of the Mishkan had a particular order. The Bikkurei Yaakov disagrees, distinguishing between the Mishkan which was a Tashmish Kedusha, and the Sukkah, which is a Tashmish Mitzvah.

2. The Pri Megadim (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 643) writes that it is proper for the Sukkah to have a floor, recalling the Ananei Kavod, which surrounded Bnei Yisrael on all six sides. Based upon this thought, the floor would then be part of the Kedushas HaSukkah, and it would be forbidden to otherwise derive benefit from it.

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21 Elul

THE SOURCE OF INSPIRATION: From a reader: “Regarding last week’s Parasha, Ki Savo, Rabbi Menachem Zupnik, Shlita, Rav of Bais Torah U’Tefilah of Passaic, based on the S’fas Emes, quoting the Hidushei HaRim, quoting the Rav M’Parshischa, emphasized that at the end of the Parasha, Moshe Rebbeinu, addressing the Dor De’eh, many of whom saw with their own eyes K’riyas Yam Suf and Ma’amad Har Sinai, acknowledges that such spectacular and awe-inspiring nisim and wonders are not enough. No, as Moshe stated it was not until “this day” that Hashem gave B’nei Yisrael “a heart to know, eyes to see and ears to hear” (Devarim 29,3). What was “this day”? As Rashi explains, it was the day that B’nei Yisrael demanded their own copy of a Sefer Torah, not being content that Moshe had just given a Sefer Torah to Shevet Levi--for fear that in the future Shevet Levi might try to usurp it only for itself. From “this day”, we see that B’nei Yisrael understood that the source of their sustained inspiration must be from their own personal connection to our Holy Torah, and not from any other external factors, even those of the most miraculous sort!”

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KABBALAH SUGGESTION FROM A READER: “I regularly observe that many people unwittingly allow the tzitzis of their Talis Gadol to trail on the floor, often to be stepped on r’l by themselves or others. Our tzitzis represent the Taryag Mitzvos, and one should not allow this to become c’v a mitzvah that he is ‘Dash B’akeivo’. Let us all be mekabel to be cognizant of this aspect of ‘U’reisem Oso’....”

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IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATION: We had once asked HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita, for a mussar Sefer that could be studied with a Bar Mitzvah-aged child. He replied that the Sefer Orchos Tzaddikim speaks to all people, on all levels.

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SEVERAL ADDITIONAL POINTS AND POINTERS RELATING TO THE ELEVATED DAYS OF ELUL:

A. IMPORTANT REMINDER! The Seforim refer to the days of Elul as Yemei Ratzon; Yemei HaRachamim V’HaSelichos; and Yamim Kedoshim. Please note that this is not the time of year when one should feel that he has ‘maxed out’, doing the best and the most that he can. Just as to the wealthy, there is always room for an extra profit, another good deal, another asset, another gain, so too, we can expand our ‘I’ to bring in those extra mitzvos, and those extra improvements in character and in daily deeds which can truly improve a person’s life--in this world, and forever!

B. When reviewing our actions and inactions over the past year, we must remember to include the doubtful actions and possible misdeeds as well. The Rema (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 604:1) writes that a safek aveirah needs more Teshuvah than a certain aveirah because a person feels more charatah when he knows that he did wrong than when he is in doubt. In fact, it is for this reason that the monetary cost of an Asham Talui (brought when one is unsure he has sinned) is greater than that of a Korban Chatas (brought when a sin is certainly committed). Hakhel Note: Perhaps one can keep a separate (hopefully short) listing of matters of doubt. We add that this is an especially important time to ask one’s Rav or Posek for final decisions as to how to properly conduct oneself in a particular area (such as a matter of Hilchos Shabbos or a particular item in Hilchos Kashrus) if one is not certain if what he is doing is correct, and does so either because he thinks it is correct or saw someone else do the same thing in a similar situation.

C. At a Hakhel Yarchei Kallah, HaRav Don Segal, Shlita, related what HaRav Avrohom Kalmanovitz, Z’tl, the Mirrer Rosh Yeshiva heard from the Chofetz Chaim himself: “What is the greatest tzara to a Jew? The greatest tzara is if Hashem leaves us. When does Hashem leave us? The answer is found in the Torah itself (Devarim 23:15): “VeLo Yireh Vecha Ervas Davar V’Shav Mei’acharecha--and Hashem will not see a thing of nakedness in you, and depart from you.” The Torah expressly states that it is the ervas davar that causes Hashem to leave our camp.” Accordingly, the Chofetz Chaim concluded that any hidur that we can perform to avoid ervas davar is a hidur in keeping the Shechina close by to us. We need to keep our Machaneh Kadosh for Hashem to be with us and save us from those who wish to attack us and destroy us. In some ways, HaRav Segal added, the sight of erva could be worse than the aveirah of arayos itself. He noted the words of Chazal who teach: “Ain HaBracha Metzuyah Ela B’Davar HaSamui Min HaAyin--and suggested that one can interpret this teaching to mean that bracha can only be found when d’var erva is hidden from one’s eyes.” HaRav Segal accordingly pleaded and encouraged all men and women to be especially careful and concerned with the way they dress, and also reminded everyone that it a Gevaldige Eis Ratzon to daven to Hashem for anything at a time that one consciously guards his eyes from looking at or towards something that he should not be looking at.

D. HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, teaches that one of the most serious items that separates us from Hashem is our ga’avah--our arrogance, haughtiness, and simple belief that we ‘did it ourselves’. We must be careful to avoid the feeling of “Kochi VeOtzem Yadi--it is my ability and my prowess that achieved the result.” When one quashes this thought, he recognizes Hashem’s continuous presence in his life and moves closer to Him. In this regard, we should take nothing for granted--it is not a sure thing that one knows how to go to a store, buy a loaf of bread and container of cream cheese, have the money to pay for it, and return home safely. Every step of the way, it is only with Hashem’s guiding light and loving hand!

E. “Talmud Torah K’Negged Kulam”. If one is, bli neder, mekabel this as Limud Beretzifus--knowingly and willingly not looking at the cell phone, nor allowing for words of batalah or extraneous words during his study session or Shiur, then he has obviously elevated himself to a wonderful level of ‘Na’aseh V’Nishmah’. There is another simple method in which one can demonstrate on a daily basis his awareness and his oneness with Talmud Torah K’Negged Kulam. That is, if one has two tasks that one could perform in front of him--to open up a Sefer and study Torah, or to do something else--and one consciously chooses the study of Torah as a matter of priority, a matter of principle--he has demonstrated that in his life--it is truly Talmud Torah K’Negged Kulam. We must show that it is not simply a matter of Hashkafa, or even a significant Ma’amar Chazal--but that it is a Divine standard that we live by in our daily lives. Each and every one of us can be a living embodiment of--Talmud Torah K’Negged Kulam!

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WE PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING POINTS AND POINTERS FOR THE LAST DAYS OF THE YEAR:

A. It is said in the name of a great Rav: “One should view the entire world as being in a freezer--everyone around seems to be extremely cold--in fact, frozen--and perhaps even numbed, to that which is truly meaningful and important. One can warm himself up to the Real World through the study of Sifrei Mussar.”

B. The Chofetz Chaim relates that our powers of sight, hearing, and speech, are not bodily strengths or capabilities, but instead truly emanate from our souls. Let us make sure that we review our acts and deeds especially with respect to these three powers--and literally come to our senses!

C. There is a famous parable of the Dubno Maggid that relates to how one can tell the difference between a regular worker in a factory and the son of the owner who also works in the very same department. The regular worker is sure to clock in at 9:00, clock in and out for lunch, and clock out at 5:00. He then goes home to take care of his real business there. The son of the owner, however, will arrive early, work through lunch, and won’t even realize that it is 5:00PM--after all, it is his father’s business. We will soon ask Hashem to treat us not only as Malkeinu but also as Avinu Malkeinu--and we well know that we may not be able to make it based upon Malkeinu alone. If we want Hashem to treat us like His sons--should we not act like a good son acts towards his father ? Do we arrive at davening or to a shiur exactly on time or a little bit late--or a little bit early, without looking at the clock too much in between? What is our real business--Are we yotzei a Mitzvah--or do we appreciate and even enjoy its sweetness? Do we feel our Father’s love throughout the day by recognizing His Presence and embrace? Do we treat our friends and acquaintances the way our Father would expect that His sons will treat each other? If our Father was to ask us if there is anything that we would not do for Him--how would we respond? Let us take the time to take the Yiddish expressions which may have fallen out of contemporary practice “Tatteh Liber” and “Tatteh in Himmel”--and try to bring them back into our daily thoughts and vocabulary!

D. The following is excerpted from a truly remarkable book entitled Reb Chatzkel, on the life of Rabbi Yechezkel Levenstein, Z’tl, by Rabbi Yitzchak Kasnett (Artscroll, 2007). This book is highly recommended: “The Chofetz Chaim told several relatives and students that he had a secret to tell them that would reveal a deep and fundamental concept of Torah. However, he would only disclose it at the end of the “third watch” of the night, just before dawn, and that they should prepare themselves to be present. The Chofetz Chaim’s intent in meeting at that hour was his desire that his words should make the greatest possible impression upon his listeners. Anticipating that their great Rebbe would reveal secrets of the future Redemption, all were gathered and ready. The Chofetz Chaim began by reciting the bracha of “Elokai Neshamah...”in its entirety, emphasizing the word LeHachazirah — to return [my soul] to me in the future to come. The Chofetz Chaim explained that the mapik (dot) in the last hey of the word LeHachazirah indicates that the very same soul taken from a person at the time of his death is returned to him when the dead are brought back to life. If the soul was befouled by sin during the person’s lifetime, it will be returned to him befouled and sullied with spiritual impurities; exactly as it was taken, it will be returned. He further explained that the bond of closeness one establishes with Hashem in this world remains forever, as does the distance from Hashem one creates. This was the great secret the Chofetz Chaim wished to reveal just before dawn that day, when he finished, all of those present said Shema Yisrael with great intensity.”

E. As we hear the order of Tekiah, Shevarim, Teruah, Tekiah, we realize that the first sound may represent us in our current state--solid--believing that we are doing pretty well as a Shomer Torah U’Mitzvos in a spoiled, degenerate and perhaps even decadent environment and world--and that our behavior is really a Tekiah. However, upon a little thought, reflection and analysis represented by the Teshuva process--we arrive at Shevarim, we break ourselves down a little bit and realize that there really is something to correct. Once we have opened up the thought process enough, we get to Teruah, in which we thoroughly break through, shattering our self-contained aggrandizements and illusions--and realize that much work is to be done for us to reach our true and great potential. If we go through the process of Tekiah, Shevarim, Teruah--then we will be able to complete it with another Tekiah--a new and different Tekiah of advancement in Avodas Hashem. If one repeats the process enough--he can complete it in its entirety-- resulting in a Tekiah Gedolah!

F. Remember--Tzedaka Today! As the year draws to a close, we can go only right by using our money, which otherwise presents us with so many Nisyonos through the course of the year, in a way our Father would like us to--helping his other sons--our brothers!

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HILCHOS SUKKOS! We continue our two Halachos a day in the 30-day period before Sukkos:

1. As we all know, the Rema writes that one should begin building his Sukkah on Motza’ei Yom Kippur so that he leaves one Mitzvah and enters another. If one finds it difficult to begin the actual building either because he is weak from the fast or he needs the help of others, the Kaf HaChaim writes that he should at least speak with his household members regarding the Sukkah. In a similar vein, the Aruch HaShulchan writes that one unable to build a Sukkah should be involved in learning Mesechta Sukkah or the Halachos of Sukkah. Likewise, the Mateh Ephraim writes that if one has purchased his Lulav and Esrog prior to Yom Kippur, he should check them on Motza’ei Yom Kippur to make sure that everything is in order (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 624; and 625, Dirshu Notes 3 and 4).

2. It is a Mitzvah on every man to be personally involved in the building of his Sukkah and in the placement of his schach. Even if one is a highly respected person and does not usually engage in this kind of activity--he should recognize that this is his greatest honor--to be personally involved in a Mitzvah. In fact, concludes the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, one would recite a Shehechiyanu on the building of the Sukkah, but for the fact that we rely on the Shehechinayu made at the conclusion of Kiddush on the first night of Sukkos to encompass the Mitzvah of building the Sukkah as well.

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20 Elul

THE TEN DAY CHALLENGE! Perhaps one of the most famous teachings of the Rambam is his Hilchos Teshuvah. If one begins today, and learns one Chapter a day of the Rambam’s Hilchos Teshuvah, he will have completed the Rambam’s teachings in time for Rosh Hashana…an undertaking which may be a real sign of one’s sincerity in his Teshuvah process!

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REMEMBER THE PASUK! In these few days before Rosh Hashana, as we search for ways to improve and to give Nachas Ruach to the Melech Malchei HaMelochim, we should keep the tefillah of Dovid HaMelech himself with us (Tehillim 86:11): “Horeini Hashem Darkecha Ahaleich Ba’amitecha Yacheid Levavi L’Yirah Shemecha--teach me Hashem Your way that I may travel in Your truth, unify my heart to fear You.”

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REMINDERS:

1. Be Dan L’Chaf Zechus!

2. Be Ma’avir Ahl HaMiddos!

3. Display Rachamim to Others--V’Rachamav Ahl Kol Ma’asav

4. Don’t Get Angry!

5. Start Somewhere--Strongly Consider Proposed Kabbalos for the Coming Year

6. Teshuvah B’Chol Yom--Especially During These Last Ten Days of the Year!

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A GREAT AND ETERNAL TASK: Of exceeding and primary importance in the Teshuvah process and in real improvement as a human being is the proper and appropriate use of one of man’s great and distinguishing characteristics--his ability to speak. We all know that the Chofetz Chaim, whose tzidkus and teachings extend to many of us on a daily basis, made the absolute need to improve in this area one of his main missions to K’lal Yisrael. Although we all recognize that the proper use or r’l abuse of one’s speech is one of a person’s crucial tests in life--we need reminders of it on a daily basis, because the Yetzer Hara will simply not let up on such a great and eternal task. We accordingly provide a few powerful points from the Sefer Sha’arei Teshuvah (3:200-210) relating to the primacy of proper speech in one’s life. When considering an area that needs personal improvement, one should spend the extra time to determine what in the area of speech can--and must--be improved upon. Rabbeinu Yonah calls out to us as follows:

1. Chazal (Erchin 15B) teach “Kol Hamisaper Lashon Hara Ke’ilu Kofer BaIkar”, as the Pasuk says: “Asher Amru…Mi Adon Lanu--with our tongue we will prevail, our lips are with us; who is master over us?” (Tehillim 12:5).

2. Chazal teach that one who relates a p’gam Mishpacha--Ein Lo Kapparah Olamis, can never be forgiven.

3. Although the Torah usually protects in time of danger, it will not protect one who is a ba’al Lashon Hara, and, in fact, such a person is not worthy of studying Torah. When Chazal teach that an aveirah does not extinguish the Torah that one has learned--it only refers to an aveirah that happened in a sporadic way, and not to one who is not careful with his tongue as a matter of course.

4. Chazal teach: “Knesses Yisrael B’Kolah Ahuvah U’V’Kolah Senuah--through its voice K’lal Yisrael is beloved, and through its voice it is despised”. We know the voice of Lashon Hara that is despised--what is the voice that is loved? It is the voice that speaks Divrei Torah, Chochma, Mussar, peace among people, the view of people in a positive light, praising goodness, deprecating evil and defending the truth. With this, one can achieve his potential in life.

Hakhel Note One: In last week’s Parasha, the Ba’al HaTurim writes that the Gematria of seiser (in private) is the same as the Gematria of Lashon Hara. Accordingly, when the Torah addresses a curse to one who hurts his friend in private--it is referring to Lashon Hara. This, in fact, is codified in the Sefer Chofetz Chaim.

Hakhel Note Two: Especially at this time of year, we should take to heart the teaching of Shlomo HaMelech, the wisest of all men (Mishlei 18:21): “Maves V’Chaim B’Yad HaLashon V’Ohaveha Yochal Pirya--death and life are in the hand of the tongue, those that love it will eat its fruit!”

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SEVERAL ADDITIONAL POINTS AND POINTERS RELATING TO THE ELEVATED DAYS OF ELUL:

A. HaRav Yaakov Galinsky, Z’tl, brings the following two teachings from the Sefer Orchos Tzadikim: (1) “A small act performed with Anavah (humility) is accepted before Hashem 1,000 times more than an otherwise great act that is done with ga’avah; and (2) a Mitzvah performed with Simcha is worth 1,000 times more than a Mitzvah that is performed as a masah, a burden.” HaRav Galinsky added that if we put these two together--Anavah and Simcha in our Mitzvah performance, we are in the 1,000 times 1,000 category (millionaires!).

B. Chazal (Brachos 19A) bring the case of one who was put into nidui (excommunication) because he was mezalzel B’Netilas Yodayim--he did not properly treat the Mitzvah D’Rabbanan of Netilas Yodayim. At a Hakhel Shiur, Rabbi Noach Isaac Oelbaum, Shlita, stressed how important it is to make sure that one washes his entire hand during Netilas Yodayim, and showed how one could do so in a hand-turning motion. We wash our hands for various Halachic reasons so many times a week--and will certainly do so on Rosh Hashana--let us revisit our Netilas Yodayim and perhaps review with our Rav or Posek our proper performance of the Mitzvah--so that we are not c’v mezalzel B’Netilas Yodayim--but instead are mechabed this great Mitzvah of Netilas Yodayim--performed so often in our lives!

C. In a short while, most of us will fulfill the Mitzvah of Tekiyas Shofar by listening to the Shofar blasts. In fact, the bracha (which we will hear) will be Lishmo’ah Kol Shofar. The Chofetz Chaim points out that Kabbalas HaTorah at Har Sinai was also through our hearing--Na’aseh V’Nishmah. What goes along with all of this, writes the Chofetz Chaim, are the words of Shlomo HaMelech, the wisest of all men: Mishlei (15:31) “Ozen Shoma’as Tochachas Chaim B’Kerev Chachomim Talin--the ear that listens to reproof of life dwells among the wise.” The importance of listening to reproof is highlighted by Chazal (Bava Kama 83B) who teach us that if one destroyed his fellow’s eye or his hand, the court evaluates the victim in the same way as a slave being sold in the market--how much he was worth with all his limbs, and much he is worth now with one limb missing. But should he make the victim deaf, he must pay equivalent to the person’s complete value, because he can no longer hear reproof that will bring him to the life of the World to Come! (Presented in the English translation of Mishlei by Rabbi Avrohom Rosenberg; Judaica Press).

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HILCHOS SUKKAH: We continue our two Halachos a day in the 30-day period before Sukkos. Our notes today are excerpted from the Dirshu Edition of the Mishna Berurah, Volume VI.

1. If one places a sheet of plastic on top of the schach when it is raining, the Shevet HaLevi, Z’tl, rules one should continue to sit in the Sukkah (although one does not make a bracha for sitting in such a Sukkah). Other Poskim hold that when it is really raining, you cannot fulfill Mitzvas Sukkah--even if you do not feel the rain. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 629, Dirshu Note 41). Hakhel Note: In the past, we had distinguished between clear plastic and colored plastic with regard to this Halacha. However, a reader diligently pointed out that the Shevet HaLevi makes no such distinction with regard to this Halacha (we confirmed this with a Posek, who additionally advised that HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl, rules like the Shevet HaLevi in this Halacha).

2. If the schach was blown up off the top of the Sukkah because of the wind, and then falls back down on to the Sukkah and covers it again, HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, and the Shevet HaLevi, Z’tl, rule that the Sukkah is pesula, because the schach as newly placed down by the wind (or which fell because of the lack of it) was not then placed with the with the necessary intent of l’shem tzel--for the sake of shade. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 635, Dirshu Note 9).

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17 Elul

DAVEN NOW! With the r’l potentially dangerous situation in the southeastern United States, we should not act as bystanders, and ‘hope’ for the people living there that the situation passes easily. Instead, WE MUST DAVEN for them NOW. Chazal teach that we must always daven prior to a tzara occurring, for once din has been meted out it is much more difficult to be relieved of it. PLEASE DON’T WAIT--SAY TEHILLIM AND DAVEN NOW!!

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THAT IS OUTRAGEOUS! Rabbi Ephraim Wachsman, Shlita reports that HaRav Yaakov Galinsky, Z’tl, was once asked by a mother to speak to her son, who intended to marry a non-Jew. When HaRav Galinsky met the young man he told him: “Did you know that the Chofetz Chaim married a shiksa?” The young man responded: “That can’t be--you definitely have it wrong--that is outrageous!” Rabbi Galinsky responded: “If I do have it wrong--then it is just as outrageous for you to marry a shiksa--for in truth your holiness comes from the same Source!” The Lesson: No one, no one can excuse himself with respect to any aveira with ‘the Chofetz Chaim does this--and I do that’--for it is equally as outrageous!

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SOME KABBALAH SUGGESTIONS:

1. Kissing a Sefer (with thought behind it) before and after learning from it.

Hakhel Note: This is an effective means of affirmatively demonstrating one’s Chavivus HaTorah!

2. Being very careful not to disturb another when learning (not unnecessarily going near him or his place in a way in which he will look up; not going out of the way to greet him, and the like).

Hakhel Note: By doing so, one not only demonstrates his value for a moment of Torah learning, but also fulfills the Mitzvah of Bein Adam L’Chaveiro of allowing his friend to accomplish another moment of Talmud Torah K’negged Kulam!

3. Putting an end to complaining.

Hakhel Note: Chazal (Avos 5:6) teach that our forefathers through their complaints ‘tested’ Hashem ten times in the Midbar. The meforshim explain that the last test was that of the meraglim--which brought the devastation of another 38-plus years in the desert. The people had finally learned to stop the testing--there was nothing that amounted to an eleventh test in the next 38 years--but it was one complaint too late. Oh--had there been only nine complaints instead of ten--we would now be, quite literally, in paradise. We should take the lesson--and stop complaints--now!

4. Not embarrassing anyone in public for any reason.

Hakhel Note: Chazal (Bava Metzia 58B) teach that one who embarrasses another in public joins those who descend to Gehinnom and ‘V’ainom Olim’---do not ascend. Can you name any other aveira of which this is said?

5. Not checking emails before davening.

Hakhel Note One: Perhaps we can add not checking texts as well. After all--doesn’t d’veikus through davening come first?

Hakhel Note Two: Additional points about cell phone use--should it be the first thing that I take out when leaving Shul? Is it right to be looking to see who is calling when talking with someone in person--without saying “Excuse me I am waiting for an important call” (provided it is true!)? Is texting, and texting, and texting a healthy activity for my soul? For those with email access, should I be sending or reading emails when walking on the street, when eating, at red lights (perhaps illegal in any event), or when spending quality time with a family member? What did I do at all these times before cell phones were invented? Consider the following comment: “The nisayon of a recent previous Dor was the haskala, and the nisayon of our Dor is technology.” Certainly, Hashem has given us many tools and gifts with which to improve our lives and serve him--let us then use them with the gift of sechel granted to us that accompany these gifts. Elul is the time to re-focus. Let us make a move to bring back a bit of our own kavod--which will bring with it Kavod Shomayim.

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AT THIS TIME OF YEAR! We note that HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, teaches that one of the reasons that we read Parashas Bikkurim (whose essence is recognition of Hashem’s gifts to us) at this time of the year is to remind us to have HaKaras HaTov and thanks to Hashem for life and the gifts of the past year.

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PLEASE REVIEW MORE THAN ONCE: The following teaching is contained in the Sefer Orchos Chaim of the great Rishon and one of the greatest Poskim of all time, Rabbeinu Asher. Its one sentence constitutes Siman #90 of the Sefer:

“Do not minimize the significance of even one enemy.”

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THE CONTRAST: In the previous paragraph, we highlighted the avoidance of any enemy. In Lashon HaKodesh, the term for friend is ‘chaver’--very much related to the word ‘chibur’--joining together or attachment. The true feelings we should have towards another are those of joining together with him. His simcha is your simcha because you are joined together, and r’l his pain is yours as well. One should not only feel the ecstasy of the Chosson and Kallah--but that of their parents as well. One should be more than a participant or bystander--but part of the wedding party! Bond together with others--and don’t lose the opportunity to do so at any Bris, Siyum, Bar Mitzvah.... The famous joy felt by HaRav Chaim Shmuelevitz, Z’tl, was that of a mother buying his child’s first pair of shoes....whatever evokes emotion in another--join in and feel it together with him! This is the essence of being a true chaver!

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ADDITIONAL NOTES ON THE YEMEI RACHAMIM OF ELUL:

A. “Pirtzah Korah L’Ganav--a breach in a wall calls out to a ganav to enter.” It would be a tremendous step in a person’s Teshuvah process to identify those breaches which are large enough to let the ganav in!

B. The Sefer Tomer Devorah points out that the three Pesukim in Micha of Mi Keil Kamocha Nosei Avon V’Over Ahl Pesha… (Micha 7:18-20) contain all of the 13 attributes of Hashem’s mercy. The Sefer therefore advises that one constantly recite these two Pesukim, so that he reminds himself of Hashem’s 13 attributes--which each and every one of us must emulate. It is no wonder, then, that these three Pesukim conclude the Haftaras of both Shabbos Shuvah and Yom Kippur Mincha!

C. Chazal teach that if one is Dan L’Chaf Zechus--judges his friend favorably, then Hashem will judge him favorably as well. The Ben Ish Chai asks--we can understand why we should judge favorably--after all we really may not know the truth, the details, the nuances. But how could this apply to Hashem--what does it mean for Hashem to judge us favorably--after all, He knows all of our thoughts and actions--without any doubt or uncertainty whatsoever?! The Ben Ish Chai answers that because you have judged another favorably, Hashem will look at your situation in a different light than what had actually transpired. For instance, if one did not give Tzedakah when he had a particular opportunity--Hashem will say: “If he had more money, he would have given Tzedakah.” If one did not daven with the Kavannah that he should have, Hashem will say: “If he had just a little more sleep he would have certainly davened with more Kavannah.” If we can be judge others l’chaf zechus…imagine how much more infinitely Hashem can do so for us!

D. HaRav Shmuel Kamenetsky, Shlita, points out that some people may place greater focus on the Bracha in Shemone Esrei of Bareich Aleinu than for Atta Chonein L’Adam Da’as. He notes, however, that when one asks Hashem for Chochma--and especially Chochmas HaTorah--he is asking for help with his eternity, and the request could therefore be much more profound and everlasting! Hakhel Note: Perhaps one should consider stretching out his hand (“Ke’ani BaPesach”) when reciting this Bracha, in order to move himself to a better level of Kavannah-- and reality!

E. The Mishna in Avos (4:17) teaches that there are four different approaches to going to the Bais HaMidrash: One who goes but does not study when there obtains reward for going. One who studies at home but does not go earns reward for accomplishment. One who goes and studies is a chossid, and one who does not go and does not study is a rasha. It is clear from the Mishna that in order to do best--to be a chossid--in one’s Torah study, he should go to the Bais HaMidrash and learn there. Even if a person feels that he may be better suited, equipped and prepared to learn at home, to achieve completeness in one’s studies and get to the highest level--to be a chossid in Torah-- if at all possible, one should be sure to go to the Bais HaMidrash and learn there!

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WE CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS--HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:

1. Chazal, based upon the Pasuk of “VeDaber Dovor” teach that one’s speech on Shabbos should not be the same as on a weekday (Shabbos 113A). This is brought to light in many Halachos in Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 307, many having to do with worldly-related matters. Based upon this Halacha, the use of many words may be questionable on Shabbos. Here are some examples: Netanyahu, Obama, market (any one), emailed and even ... ‘my cell phone’. You may think of several other words and phrases. If one truly believes that Shabbos is Mai’Ain Olam Haba--why would he speak Olam Hazeh language there?

2. The Mishna Berurah (ibid., seif katan 21) writes that at Shalosh Seudos, which, unlike the first two meals does not have a Kiddush associated with it, it is Tov VeHader--good to beautify the meal by making a bracha and drinking some wine during Shalosh Seudos (which is the Shita of the Rambam). HaRav Nissim Karelitz, Shlita, teaches that the amount can be less than a revi’is, and one only need to drink a little bit--as the point is to demonstrate the importance of the meal.

3. The Mishna Berurah writes that lechatchila one should have delicacies in this meal in accordance with his capabilities (ibid. seif katan 22).

4. The reason that women are equally obligated in this meal is because as to all matters of Shabbos men and women are equal, and also because they also benefitted from the miracle of the Mon, in which Parasha the three meals of Shabbos are alluded to (ibid seif katan 26).

5. Shalosh Seudos is more important than Melave Malka; accordingly, if one has a limited amount of meat, fish or other delicacies, it is better to serve them at Shalosh Seudos (ibid., Bi’ur Halacha d’h U’lefachos, and Dirshu Note 20).

6. On Shabbos at Mincha, we uniquely recite the Tefillah of VeAni Tefillasi…Eis Ratzon--which demonstrates that although we have eaten and drank, we still look to the Torah. Even a person who davens b’yechidus should recite the Pasuk (SA OC 292 Mishna Berurah seif katan 2 and Dirshu Note 1). We note that we will not recite this Pasuk this year--on Yom Kippur which falls out on Shabbos, since we will not have eaten or drank before then. During the course of the year, however, even a person who davens b’yechidus should recite the Pasuk (SA OC 292 Mishna Berurah seif katan 2 and Dirshu Note 1). Note: On Shabbos Yom Kippur we will also not recite Tzidkasecha Tzedek at Mincha, because there we state (Tehillim 69:14) Mishpatecha Tehom Rabba--Your judgments are very deep---and on Yom Kippur we ask for Hashem’s Rachamim!

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LESSONS FROM BIKKURIM: HaRav Mattisyahu Salomon, Shlita, gave an essential Shiur to explain the extreme significance of the period we are in. Elul is not a time period that was discovered 200 years ago, 500 years ago or even 1,000 years ago. Rather, it was Moshe Rabbeinu himself who demonstrated the power of Elul to us, as through his Tefillos during this time he was able to bring the Luchos Sheniyos and the Torah back to this world. HaRav Salomon brings from HaRav Aharon Kotler, Z’tl, that people mistakenly believe that when we exclaim on the night of Yom Kippur “VaYomer Hashem Salachti Kedvarecha”--that we are referring to the Tefillos that we are about to begin reciting on Yom Kippur. However, it is really the process of our Tefillos over the 40 days from Rosh Chodesh Elul that bring about our forgiveness on Yom Kippur. We must understand that our Tefillos NOW until Yom Kippur are important and effective as we are in Yemei Rachamim and Yemei Ratzon. What is Tefillah? It is not an exercise in which we attempt to ‘persuade’ Hashem to change His mind. It is rather anAvodas HaLev--a sincere and heartfelt experience in which we declare that we are entirely dependent upon Hashem. It is the acknowledgement that it is Hashem Who has the power and control over everything--and anything that I have comes from Him. With this heartfelt internalization, a person becomes a different person, and may receive what he asks for. The essence of Tefillah is for a person to feel that he stands before Hashem and recognizes Who Hashem truly is and what Hashem means in his life. In this week’s Parasha, we find the Mitzvah of Bikkurim. Chazal teach that “in our current times when we do not have the Mitzvah of Bikkurim, we instead daven three times a day”. This is because one who brings Bikkurim does so ‘Lifnei Hashem Elokecha--before Hashem’ (Devarim 26:10). Our davening three times a day is for us to attain this level of Lifnei Hashem Elokecha even in our times and in our day. HaRav Salomon brings the famous teaching of HaRav Chaim Brisker, Z’tl, that if one does not know that he is standing in front of Hashem when davening Shemone Esrei, then he has not in fact davened. The difference between a young child davening and an adult davening is that a child simply looks into a Siddur and says the words--whereas an adult stands before and talks to Hashem while doing so. As the Arizal explains, the Nusach of our Tefillah as established by the Anshei Knesses HaGedolah has all the powers necessary to reach the Olamos HaElyonim. What we have to do is say them, simply understanding the meaning of the words and knowing before Whom and to Whom we are talking. HaRav Simcha Zissel, Z’tl (the Alter of Kelm), adds that if we can conquer the Yetzer Hara of foreign thoughts in Tefillah--then Hashem will, Middah K’negged Middah, conquer any anger or Din that He might otherwise have upon us. We learn this from Avrohom Avinu, who was koveish, who conquered, his mercy over his son and brought him to the akeidah, in whose zechus Hashem is koveish, conquers any anger or Din He has against His people in theYemei HaDin. It is therefore a tremendous and invaluable undertaking to work on controlling foreign thoughts during davening, and to recognize before Whom we stand. If one realizes he has a foreign thought--then, as with all bad thoughts--at the very least he should not enjoy it and do whatever he can to ‘throw it out’ of his mind. He will then be acting like Avrohom Avinu who was a koveish--and Hashem will then be a Koveish Ka’as MeiAleinu--showering Chesed and Rachamim upon us, and bringing us the Geulah Sheleimah B’Karov BeMeheirah V’Yameinu.

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ON TOCHACHA AND BRACHA: In this week’s Parasha we encounter the Tochacha. Chazal explain that we read the Tochacha before the end of the year so that “Tichleh Shana Ve’Kileloseha--let the year and its curses end,” and let the new year and its brachos begin. HaRav Gedalya Schorr, Zt’l, teaches that we must treat our foibles and faults of the previous year as a seed. We must plant them in the ground out of sight and touch, and nurture our past experiences into a beautiful and blossoming new fruit during the coming year. We should most definitely not let the sins of the past, and despair over them, obstruct the beautiful potential from growth that we have in the coming year. We must realize that much bracha lies ahead--if we follow the path of blessing.

Hakhel Note: In the Tochacha, we learn that one of the punishments we will receive for not properly observing the Torah is “Timhon Laivuv” (this term is, non-coincidently, the last of the Al Chaits). Rashi interprets “Timhon Laivuv” as “Itum HaLev--having a stuffed heart.” It is essential for us--especially at this time of year--to open our stuffed hearts--so that we do not suffer from a self-imposed Timhon Laivuv!

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HILCHOS SUKKAH! We continue our two Halachos a day in the 30-day period before Sukkos. We provide two Halachos per day for each of Erev Shabbos, Shabbos and Sunday:

1. HaRav Yaakov Ettlinger, Z’tl, in his great work on Sukkos, the Bikkurei Yaakov, writes that person should act wisely when building his Sukkah so that he can fulfill the Mitzvah of Sukkah with greater ease--and allow himself the ability to stay in the Sukkah, rather than saying that he is ‘patur’--for one who adds on to his kiyum of Sukkah will have bracha added on to him Min HaShomayim. It is well known, for example, that the Chofetz Chaim, Z’tl, and HaRav Chaim Brisker, Z’tl, would bring a heater into the Sukkah in order to make it more comfortable, a more pleasant place to stay in, and a place where one could learn without difficulty. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 639, Dirshu Note 34)

2. A child who becomes Bar Mitzvah over Sukkos would not recite a Shehechiyanu over the Mitzvah of Sukkah, as he already recited (or was Yotzei) the Shehechiyanu prior to his bar mitzvah. With respect to a Ger who converts to Yiddishkeit over Sukkos, the Bikurei Yaakov is unsure whether he would make a Shehechiyanu at that time, as the chiyuv came upon him together with all Mitzvos, and not as a special Mitzvah that only comes MeZman LeZman--at designated times during the year for which the Shehechiyanu would be recited. (SA, OC 641, Dirshu Note 8)

3. One typically makes Kiddush on Yom Tov morning and recites a Leisheiv BaSukkah. If one will not be washing his hands in the Sukkah, but instead will be going back into his house, by going inside he has interrupted between his bracha of Leisheiv BaSukkah and eating Challah in the Sukkah, over which the Leisheiv BaSukkah has been recited. Although this may be acceptable bedi’eved, the Sefer Sukkah KeHilchasa provides other eitzos--either eating sufficient cake after Kiddush before one leaves the Sukkah, or drinking a revi’is of wine at the time of Kiddush (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 643 Dirshu Note 10). One may want to consult with his Rav based upon his personal facts and circumstances.

4. There is a question as to whether one should recite the bracha of Leisheiv BaSukkah when making Havdalah. Even if one is to recite a Leisheiv BaSukkah when reciting Havdalah, there are different opinions as to at what point it should be recited. One should accordingly consult with his Rav or Posek in this area. [HaRav Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach, Z’tl, would, for example, make the bracha of Leisheiv BaSukkah before he made the bracha of Borei Pri HaGafen and then eat mezonos immediately after Havdalah, so that the bracha of Leisheiv BaSukkah would not only be on the drinking of the wine itself, but on the eating of a mezonos as well.] (ibid., Dirshu Note 37)

5. If a nachri put up schach, but did not do so l’shem tzel--but only because he understood only that he was doing it for a Jewish need, HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, rules that the schach is pasul (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 635, Dirshu Note 4).

6. It is muttar lechatchila to place noi Sukkah within four tefachim of the schach. If the noi would continue down more than four tefachim, however, HaRav Elyashiv, Z’tl, holds that the minhag is to be machmir and not use it, as it is no longer batel to the schach. The Shevet HaLevi, Z’tl, and yblch’t, HaRav Nissim Karelitz, Shlita, however, rule that it is perfectly permissible, as it is considered batel to the schach because it originates from an area that is batel to the schach (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 627, Dirshu Note 12).

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16 Elul

A THOUGHT ON THINKING! HaRav Naftali Kaplan, Shlita, importantly points out that as we get closer to Rosh Hashana, we may be thinking about whether or not to do something based upon the reward or punishment involved--or which could result. While this is important, and definitely a thought that a person can have several times a day, there is a more sublime level of thinking. A person should more appropriately recognize that as a human being, he is a Tzelem Elokim, attached to Hashem in an infinite and incomparable way and must therefore act accordingly. At least five times a day, before undertaking any activity--whether positive or negative--one should stop and think that: “As a human being I am chashuv, and if I do not act in an upstanding manner I am not doing what Hashem expects of me. On the other hand, if I act responsibly, I am giving Nachas Ruach to Hashem and coming closer to Him.” This reflection can be made, for example, before one begins to learn, bentsch or do a Chesed on the one hand, or is about to insult someone or speak Lashon Hara on the other. The crowning glory of a human being is his ability to think. The crowning glory of a Jew is elevating this incredible ability in ruchniyus-- and reaching towards the heavens in fulfilling one’s potential in life!

Hakhel Note: As always, HaRav Kaplan points out that it is best to jot down the times during the day that one preceded his action with this thought so that it could become more and more a part of his essence and being.

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A TEST: The following is excerpted from Life Is a Test, by Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis, A”H:

“You might argue, surely, Hashem, Who is all-knowing, Who foresees that which will occur in the future, was surely aware that Adam and Chava would violate His instructions, and that He would banish them from Gan Eden. So, if He knew beforehand that His plan was doomed to failure, why did He go through with it? Why didn’t He just bypass Gan Eden and immediately place Adam and Chava into a world of struggle, toil and sacrifice?

“Perhaps one of the reasons was to offer us a lesson in parenting--so that we might be fortified and better prepared when our children do not turn out as we had hoped. When reality does not mesh with our dreams, when the pain is so intense that we actually feel as if our hearts had been cut out, at such times, we must remember that, if Hashem can be disappointed, who are we to complain? And if He does not give up on us, who are we to give up on our children?!”

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REMINDER: By the following link http://tinyurl.com/kcy82vz we provide an essential Tefillah from the Sefer Taharas HaKodesh, as provided to us by the Always Our Kids Organization.

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A TESHUVAH PERSPECTIVE : The Rambam in Hilchos Teshuva writes that Teshuva applies not only to correction of aveiros, but to improvement in middos as well. Clearly, one of the most insidious of middos ra’os is Ka’as or anger. Even the sound of the word ‘Ka’as’ is foreboding. The following very powerful and very practical lesson on controlling anger is excerpted from yesterday’s daily lesson in the monumental work Positive Word Power (Artscroll/Chofetz Chaim Heritage Foundation): “When we lose ourselves in anger, we immediately forget one salient fact: It’s another human being on the receiving end of the diatribe. It’s a person with a heart, with feelings, hopes, and struggles. It’s a person like ourselves. Finding the moment to connect to this reality is one of the most effective means available to curtail Ona’as Devarim in our lives. Effective as it is, this strategy is difficult to enact when one’s temper has been lost and he is in the middle of an angry tirade. It helps to plan the strategy now, when one is not being pulled by the undertow of powerful emotions. What will you do the next time you feel the urge to launch a verbal attack? Look into the person’s eyes as you speak to him. See that there is a person there, with his own thoughts, his own problems. Will your words disturb his sleep? Will they arouse anger in him that he will take out on someone else? Cause him to lost confidence in himself? We don’t have to inflict pain on each other. If we can feel the other person’s suffering, rather than blocking it out of our consciousness, we will be motivated to find another way: a gentler, more sensitive and respectful way. The way we, ourselves, would like to be treated”. Hakhel Note: The next cycle of Positive Word Power will begin on Rosh Hashana. Learning the practical and effective lessons from this Sefer in its beautifully written and easy-to-read daily format would truly be a meaningful and worthwhile project for the coming year!

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SEVERAL ADDITIONAL POINTS AND POINTERS RELATING TO THE ELEVATED DAYS OF ELUL:

A. Yiras Shomayim has true life-sustaining qualities (Tehillim 33:15, et. al). The reasoning is actually quite simple--if you demonstrate a better understanding of life, then you deserve more of it. The Chofetz Chaim, almost at the outset of the Mishna Berurah (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 1, seif katan 4) provides great advice in the name of the Arizal on a to’eles gadol--a great help to attain Yirah. One should envision in front of him the four letter name of Hashem (Yud Keh Vov Keh), with the nekudos of Yirah (chirik, sheva, komatz) under the first three letters. One should certainly try this at a time or in a place where his Yirah is being challenged by his Yetzer Hara from within or his Yetzer Hara from without. Nothing, of course, can replace a meaningful Mussar Seder, but effective emergency therapy or treatment, or a needed boost at a down point of the day, can sometimes be life-bearing as well.

B. There is a word that has negative connotations that we usually do not like to associate with ourselves: zilzul--to hold in contempt, to degrade or to disgrace. One generally does not feel that he conducts himself in a manner which degrades or disgraces other people or things, yet, in the Al Cheit, we actually recite: “Al Cheit Shechatanu L’fanecha BeZilzul Horim U’Morim--for the sin we have committed against You by degrading parents and teachers.” This particular sin is obviously so pervasive that it is found in the Al Cheit recited by us all. The concept of zilzul not only applies to parents and teachers, but can also apply to the way we treat other people and their feelings as well. Zilzul even has ramifications in Hilchos Shabbos--where leaving on noise making objects on Shabbos and other public actions which show disregard for the sanctity of Shabbos are referred to as ‘zilzul Shabbos”. We can also think about zilzul in the way some may treat Seforim, Siddurim and bentschers with broken bindings and with pages ripped out for many days, and their Tallis and Tefillin bags (with the Tallis and Tefillin inside), as they let them bang against the lower part of their bodies and leave them unattended in unlocked cars. Perhaps a benchmark in this area would be how a third party whom one does not know would view what he is doing--as something sensible and honorable--or as something inappropriate, careless--or even disgraceful. Although it may be a difficult thing to do--think of the word zilzul--and go through your day making sure there is no element of it in any aspect of your daily conduct, business, affairs or thinking.

C. Rabbi Ephraim Wachsman, Shlita, provides extremely meaningful guidance in the name of “Rebbe Shmelke”, Z’tl. Rebbe Shmelke teaches that when a person travels through a difficult or treacherous area, the secret of success is in taking the trek piece by piece, part by part, goal by goal. One goes until one indicator, travels until the next marker, then until a third milestone, until he gets to his location. If a person says “I am not going to speak Lashon Hara for the next ten years, no matter what”, he is challenging himself in an admirable way, but not necessarily in a successful one. A more measured approach such as: “I will get through the week, and go from there”, may not be as admirable, but should achieve a far greater result. Rabbi Wachsman told a story of a man who successfully climbed a mountain where all others failed. When asked why he felt he was successful, he responded: “I looked down at how much I had accomplished--not at how much farther I had to go!”

D. One must never forget the teaching of Hillel (Avos 1:14): “Im Ain Ani Li Mi Li--if I am not for myself--who is for me?” There is simply no one else that can substitute, replace, or stand in one’s stead in achieving his personal spiritual potential and personal spiritual goals. If one looks to his right and looks to his left--he may see many fine and helpful people around him--but ultimately they must take care of themselves both physically and spiritually--and so must he!

E. Looking back over the year, one may want to review how many Shailos he asked, and how many he could have asked but did not do so for one reason or another. In regular circumstances, a Shemiras HaLashon Shailah should come up weekly, if not daily. Making one’s own decision to say something or not say something--or even avoiding the Shailah--is not always the proper response at all. Over the approximately 20 years of its existence, the Chofetz Chaim Heritage Foundation’s Shemiras HaLashon Shailah Hotline has answered thousands upon thousands of Shailos running the gamut of Shidduch related questions, parent-teacher issues, the professional-client relationship, and issues among parents, children and siblings. The Hotline is a vital tool to success in the life-giving area of Shemiras HaLashon. After all, Mi HaIsh HehChofetz Chaim…Netzor Leshonecha Mairah. In the United States, the Shailah Hotline’s number is 718-951-3696 and the hours are 9:00 PM-10:30 PM from Sunday through Thursday and Motza’ei Shabbos, and in Europe: HaRav Yaakov Wreschner, Shlita (Manchester) is available between 9:15AM and 10:15AM and between 1:15 and 2:15PM. His mobile number is 07980641399. Dayan Aharon Dovid Dunner, Shlita, is available at 02088008555 (no set hours).

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HILCHOS SUKKAH: We continue our two Halachos a day in the 30-day period before Sukkos. Our notes today are excerpted from the Dirshu Edition of the Mishna Berurah, Volume VI.

1. The Chayei Adam writes that it is a mitzvah min hamuvchar to build a Sukkah with four walls, and many Poskim rule this way as well. In fact, the Chazon Ish was makpid to have four complete walls, without windows (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 630, Dirshu Note 26).

2. If schach was placed so thickly on a Sukkah that stars cannot be seen through it, the Sukkah is still kosher. However, the Mishna Berurah writes that if the schach was so dense that rain could not fall through even in a heavy rain, one should be machmir and not utilize it even when it is not raining. Even then, however, it is better to sit in such a Sukkah than not in a Sukkah at all. Indeed, the Shevet HaLevi rules that one could even make the bracha of Leshev Basukkah while sitting in such a Sukkah. The Kaf HaChaim rules that a bracha should not be recited (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 631:3 Mishna Berurah seif katan 6, Dirshu Note 7).

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15 Elul

A KABBALA SUGGESTION FROM A READER: Being in a sitting position for every bracha rishona and bracha acharona on food. Hakhel Note: We look forward to your Kabbalah suggestions!

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HOW MUCH DOES HASHEM LOVE US? For an idea as to how much Hashem loves us, and how exactly He shows us His love, we urge you to recite the second bracha in Ma’ariv tonight with special Kavannah!

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WELCOME TO THE LAST TWO WEEKS OF THE YEAR: May we especially excel and stand out in our honesty, integrity and Kiddush Hashem as we enter and continue this practice into the New Year. Ask yourself: Will this be one of my primary Kabballos?

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TWO WEEKS FROM TODAY: Two Weeks from today will be Erev Rosh Hashana. It is reality check time--real reality check.

It is reported that many Gedolim would shake and tremble during this time, to the point that their knees would knock (as the phrase is actually used in Sefer Doniyeil--”Dah LeDah Nakshan”--with the English word ‘knock’ quite possibly having this Torah source). Even if one may not be at this level of trepidation, one can most certainly privately shed tears to the Ribono Shel Olam in fear and shame--as the Pasuk states “Bemistarim Tivkeh Nafshi-- my soul weeps in private”. By this suggestion, we do not mean to express negative fear. What we mean to convey is that the judgment we are to face is not tilted, perverted or fiasco-filled as we might have otherwise seen in the courtrooms of basar vadam. Our judgment will be true and just, and there is much that we need to make amends for. Having come to the realization, having faced the facts--that one’s life and the lives of others really and truly are hanging in the balance--we can then begin to fully value and appreciate that we are incredibly gifted with the instructions--just exactly what we need to do in order to emerge successfully and even gainfully on the Day of Judgment! Does it make any sense at all to not make the sincere effort, or at least demonstrate the willingness, to be guided by these life-bearing and fulfilling instructions? The instructions are direct and to the point: “Teshuva, Tefillah and Tzedakah Remove the r’l Evil Decree Against Us”--of course we all know the words--but when we get up to reciting or even crying out these words on the Yemei HaDin we must have already begun to demonstrate that they are more than just poignant words in a Machzor or even terror-filled lip service. Lehavdil, even the best recipes in a recipe book that one owns are not worth more than the paper they are written on until such time as someone actually puts together the ingredients and properly follows through; after having worked hard and carefully in the kitchen. When one does so, however, not only will the cook or baker benefit, but all those around will share in the wonderful success as well.

Dovid HaMelech (Tehillim 14:2) summarizes this all in one Pasuk: “Hashem MiShomayim Hishkif Ahl Bnei Odom Liros HaYeish Maskil Doresh Es Elokim--Hashem looks down from the Heavens to see if there is a wise person who seeks Him.” What does Dovid HaMelech mean? How does one seek Hashem--we all know that He cannot be seen and has no body, shape or form?! Moreover, Hashem is omnipresent --He is everywhere-- so what is there to seek--He is right here and right there and there and there and there?! We suggest that we seek Hashem through our clear and concise guide and formula--through Teshuva, through Tefillah, and through Tzedakah. Through ‘Teshuva’, we seek Hashem by searching through for stains of various shapes and sizes and washing as best we can our middos, our thoughts, our words and our actions. Through ‘Tefillah’, we seek d’veikus with Hashem--if we make the effort, we will be, and feel, in direct contact with the Omnipresent through prayer. As we daven Shemone Esrei, we must sincerely try to picture Hashem’s Presence in front of us, listening to ‘me’ (yes--me!) talking with Him, pleading with Him, and thanking Him. Although young children and the uneducated daven a four-minute Shemone Esrei--it does not mean that we must follow suit--and, moreover, if we are attempting to improve our lives, we should not daven in the same way as we did ten or five or even one year ago. Every year, our seeking through Tefillah--our connection to Hashem must certainly mature and grow. Finally, we seek through ‘Tzedakah’--by seeking Hashem through kindness to His creatures--through extending our hand and giving while seemingly receiving nothing in return. In this regard, we refer you again to the Yad Eliezer opportunities--for Amalei Torah and for Almanos who seek out their brother’s assistance.

Upon reflection, we must be especially warmed and encouraged by the words of Dovid Hamelech--that Hashem looks to those who seek Him--for it means that we are all in the running, we all have the chance, we all are capable and we all can succeed. We are now certainly close enough to Yom Tov to begin writing things down--events of the past year, middos to be changed, items to be taken care of, before Rosh Hashanah ...in order to make the words we shall soon cry out “Teshuva Tefillah U’Tzedaka” all the more meaningful and all the more successful on the upcoming Yom Tov.

Additional Note One: Some in the western world criticize and mock us--claiming that we are made to feel guilty for our actions. This myopic view looks at Olam Hazeh and can see no further. We know that our actions have far reaching effects now--and will stay with us for eternity. The story is related of an actual dibbuk which had uttered words of nivul peh--unbecoming language. When asked how it could do so--after all wasn’t it already in the next world--it responded that a person in the next world is only what he makes of himself here in this world. His nivul peh stays with him there too--and serves as an eternal source of shame and discomfort (to say the least). Having noted this--just begin to imagine what Teshuva, Tefillah and Tzedakah will look like and feel like--for eternity!

Additional Note Two: As noted in the past, Rabbi Ephraim Wachsman, Shlita provides remarkable solace and encouragement in the name of the Chasam Sofer. In the ordinary course, we are taught that Teshuva performed out of Ahava (love of Hashem) converts Aveiros which were performed even intentionally into actual Zechuyos, while Teshuva performed out of Yirah (Fear) turns Aveiros performed intentionally into Shegagos--unintentional sins--which Hashem will obviously treat much differently on the Yom HaDin, but which are still sin. The Chasam Sofer, however, adds that if the other two key “seeking” components besides Teshuva--i.e., Tefillah and Tzedakah--are present, than even Teshuva performed out of Yirah will be able to convert those intentional Aveiros into Zechuyos!! What a bonus! What an opportunity! What a gift!! Let us take the next two weeks to make our search a very, very successful one...and may we blessed with an outpouring and overflowing of zechuyos for ourselves... and for our people!

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SOME SPECIAL HISORERUS FROM THE SEFER SIFSEI CHAIM, HARAV CHAIM FRIEDLANDER, ZT’L (MOADIM I) TEACHES:

A. After Adam HaRishon sinned and his Teshuva was accepted (all on Rosh Hashanah!), the Torah records that Hashem placed the Lahat HaCherev HaMishapeches (the flame of the ever-turning sword) to prevent him from re-entering Gan Eden at that time. With this, the Torah provides an essential lesson in Teshuva. It is not enough just to “decide” not to fall prey to the sin again. One has to actually create some type of fence or system to prevent the possibility of falling again. One out of thousands of examples one can think of would be for a person who comes late to Shul, almost as a matter of course. His true Teshuva may be to start a learning Seder with someone before davening even if only for 10 or 15 minutes (thereby ensuring that he will be on time), or to “penalize himself” in some way for having been not as respectful as he could have been for his audience with the King

B. A person can delude himself into thinking “Shalom Yihiye Li--and walk in the way his heart sees fit” (Devorim 29:18). Yet, no one has any contracts with Hashem--every action has ramifications. If a person acts or reacts “as his heart sees fit,” or “as his heart says,” by whim or fancy, he should be sure to give the matter some second thought.

C. “Derech Chaim Tochachos Mussar--the road to life is words of reproof”--with these words of Mishlei, Shlomo HaMelech, the wisest of all men, is teaching us that the road to life is paved not by shunning the reproof and constructive criticism of others, but, quite to the contrary, by allowing it to enter and penetrate your heart.

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ON TIMES OF PARADISE: We provide the following essential points made in Praying With Fire II by Rabbi Heshy Kleinman, Shlita, relating to the “Eis Ratzon Period (Time of Favor)” that we are in from Elul through Yom Kippur--40 days of Paradise for the Neshama!:

A. R’ Itzele (Blazer) Peterburger, Z’tl, in Sefer Kochvei Ohr examines this seemingly illogical order of Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. He asserts that logically, Yom Kippur should have come first, allowing the Jewish people to begin by confessing and cleansing themselves of their sins. After that process, they could arrive at the Day of Judgment, Rosh Hashanah, deserving of a good year. However, Rav Blazer explains that a person’s first priority must be to recognize that Hashem is the benevolent King Who likewise renders judgment. Only then can one truly comprehend the magnitude of the forgiveness one must seek on Yom Kippur.

B. Our plea for a renewed lease on life is not limited to simply keeping our heartbeat and breathing going for another year. HaRav Yechezkel Levenstein, Z’tl, writes (Sefer Ohr Yechezkel, 109): “Zachreinu LeChaim is not just a request for life itself; it encompasses everything. That which is connected to life is also called life--health, sustenance, removing obstacles and hardships are all included in our request for life.” With so much at stake, we cannot afford to “stand in the shade” during this crucial Eis Ratzon, when Hashem’s radiance is at its peak.

C. To better appreciate the role of Elul, Rabbi Kleinman provides the following allegory: There was once a king who occasionally set out among the general populace to stay in touch with the realities of his subjects’ lives. Prior to his arrival, he would send out letters to a random selection of families, announcing his visit. On one such occasion, a poor couple living on the edge of town received a letter announcing that the king would be visiting them. The couple, who lived in abject poverty, began to discuss what to do. “We have to repair the front stairs and weed the lawn and paint the walls and borrow at least one good chair for him to sit on,” the husband insisted. “Who are you trying to fool?” the wife contested. “We don’t have money for all that. And besides, the king knows he’s visiting paupers. We should just be ourselves.” “No,” the husband countered. “We have to put in our best effort. We have to show him that we prepared for his visit in the best way we can. He has to see that we’re his loyal subjects and that we are proud that he is our king.” It is for this reason that we undertake extra efforts, and are more meticulous and punctilious, in the learning of Torah and the performance of Mitzvos. We must remember that, during this very 40-Day Period, Moshe Rabbeinu worked very hard in Shomayim pleading our case for eternal survival--and was successful. The grace of the Period renews itself annually for each and every one of us. However, it is not easy. There are no “push-button” solutions. Shlomo HaMelech, the wisest of all men, teaches us (Mishlei 24:16) “Ki Sheva Yipol Tzaddik VeKam…for a righteous man can fall seven times and rise, but the wicked shall stumble upon evil.” It is the Tzaddik who realizes that even though he has fallen in the past he can nevertheless rise and become great. It is actually a Rasha, a wicked person, who believes that because he has stumbled once, he has hopelessly fallen forever. We have to take the time and make the effort to get up, as Hashem is now extending His hand to help us in an extraordinarily merciful, compassionate, and forgiving way, in a way which is beyond our wildest dreams or imagination. In what ways can we help ourselves “up”? Spending more time in Tefillah, true care in Shemiras HaLashon, opening the hand a bit wider to give Tzedakah, and in bleaching our Middos. A sincere and tangible plan to avoid anger, jealousy (including looking at another person in the wrong way) and the need to gratify every last desire, will go a long way towards pulling you from last year’s fall to standing up ably and with pride on your own two feet. Let us try to get up all together--for if not now, then when?!

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HILCHOS SUKKAH! Today, we begin the thirty day period prior to Sukkos. Many learn that the obligation to study the Halachos of Sukkos begin thirty (30) days in advance (see Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 429, Ba’air Heitev). Accordingly, we bli neder intend to provide two Halachos per day. The following two Halachos are for your review today:

1. The Rema rules that one should commence building the Sukkah immediately after Yom Kippur, for he fulfills a Mitzvah in building the Sukkah as well. The Bi’ur Halacha writes that according to the Yerushalmi the building of the Sukkah is a separate Mitzvah (i.e., separate and apart from sitting in the Sukkah), and one would actually make the bracha of Asher Kideshanu BeMitzvosav…La’asos Sukkah; however, the Bavli disagrees, and holds that it is not the ikar Mitzvah. There is a Machlokes Achronim as to whether according to the Bavli it is still a Mitzvah to build to the Sukkah (and a person should preferably perform the Mitzvah on his own), or whether it is a hechsher Mitzvah--which prepares one to dwell in the Sukkah over Sukkos. (Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim 641, Dirshu Note 1)

2. It is forbidden to place the sechach down before putting up the walls of the Sukkah, as the placement of the sechach should be the final act which makes the Sukkah kasher. It is likewise of utmost importance that when placing the sechach on the Sukkah any shlak or awning is rolled up. After the sechach has been fully placed on the Sukkah and the Sukkah is kasher, one may then roll the shlak or awning on it (Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 134:8). No trees may be directly above the Sukkah. However, if the branches of trees next to the Sukkah (but not on top of the Sukkah) block the sunlight from reaching the Sukkah, the Sukkah is still kasher. (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 626:1, Bi’ur Halacha d’h Tachas)

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14 Elul

ANOTHER ELUL ACRONYM: By the following link we provide a poster the text of which a reader sent us is posted in the shul of Rav Yosef Frankel, Shlita, in Flatbush. You can also post it in your Shul!: http://tinyurl.com/ydgkkeza

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AN OUTSTANDING CALENDAR: To view and print a concise Hebrew calendar which contains the 5778 daily Nach Yomi, Mishna Yomis, Daf Yomi and Halacha Yomis, please see the following link http://tinyurl.com/ya39q54m

Spread this wealth of information to others!

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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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SHATNEZ ALERT: Hakhel had received a notice from the Vaad L’Mishmeres Shatnez

All woolen garments, including talleism, to which fabric has been added even by a religious tailor, cannot be worn until tested at a qualified Shatnez laboratory.

An individual who had his tallis relined at a cleaners in Boro Park owned by non-Jews and used by many others, because of the reasonable prices charged for the repair work. After wearing it once, he felt something was not right and went back to the cleaners to ask what material was used to reline the tallis. He was told that it was a cheaper material, but that he no longer had the packaging for the material. After the tallis was brought to the Boro Park Shatnez Laboratory for testing, it was discovered that the relined material was made of a linen blend, rendering the tallis Shatnez.

Some pious individuals check their tefillin during Elul. Checking one’s tailored tallis for Shatnez is arguably of greater importance, as it is mandatory al pi halacha.

For further information, please contact the Vaad at 877-4-SHATNEZ

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KASHRUS ALERTS FROM COR DETROIT:

1. SHAKE ‘N BAKE RANCH & HERB and SHAKE ‘N BAKE CRISPY BUFFALO seasoned coating mixes have been mistakenly labeled with the OK Pareve symbol instead of the OK-D symbol. These products are certified Kosher and dairy, as per the ingredient statements.

2. Some “OU Fish” products contain more than 1/60 fish, and according to all opinions may not be used with meat. Some examples are Lea & Perrins, Great Value, Market Pantry and ShopRite brands of Worcestershire sauces, which all state “OU Fish”. Brands of Worcestershire sauces that list anchovies and bear a plain OU contain less than 1/60 fish.

3. Consumers should be aware that STORE BRANDS AND GENERIC BRANDS, especially at discount stores, frequently change suppliers (i.e., the outside manufacturers that produce the product for the stores), which often results in a change or loss of the product’s Kosher status. In addition, a store may have multiple suppliers with different Kosher statuses for the same product, so that at some store locations a product may be Kosher while at other locations it is not. In some instances, even the same store may have a mixture of Kosher and non-Kosher versions of the same product, as with the frosting mentioned above. Consumers should therefore be especially careful when buying such products to check each package every time for proper Kosher certification.

Hakhel Note: The Sefer Mesilas Yesharim (Chapter 11) writes the following moving words about the primacy that careful Kashrus observance must have in our lives: “…for forbidden foods bring tumah mamish into the heart and soul of a person to the point that Hashem’s Kedusha leaves and moves far away from this person [when this happens] a person’s ability to have true knowledge, and his seichel that HaKadosh Baruch Hu gives to those that are pious leaves him. The forbidden foods enter his body and become a part of his being. Anyone with a brain in his head should view forbidden foods as poison, or in which some poison has been mixed. If one would be concerned for any portion of poison in any food--would he dare eat from it?! Even if one has the smallest doubt about it, he would not be lenient--and if he would risk it, he would be considered a Shoteh Gamur--a complete fool. Of this, concludes the Mesilas Yesharim, Shlomo HaMelech, writes (Mishlei 23:2): “Vesamta Sakin BeLo’echa Im Ba’al Nefesh Atta-and you should put a knife into your jaw if you are a man with a mighty appetite.”

As we conclude the year 5777, we should look back at the food that we brought into our homes, or that we ate while we were out. Were we lenient when we did not know what the Hashgacha was? Did we ignore Kashrus issues that we knew existed, simply by placing the burden or responsibility on the Kashrus agency? Did we speak to our Rav before attending a Simcha at a facility that had to be Kashered and/or about the questions that one should ask at a restaurant or food establishment out-of-town, or with which he was not familiar. The parasha of Kashrus is reiterated in the Torah--after all, eating is something that we all do at least two or three times a day, and thousands of times a year. It is imperative that we review our ways, to ensure that our body and soul are nourished in Kedusha--so that our actions and deeds will be able to express that holiness in all places, at all times, and to all people!

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PAYING TOMORROW: Shlomo HaMelech, the wisest of all men, teaches (Mishlei 3:28): “Ahl Tomar L’rei’acha Leich VaShuv U’Machar Etein V’Yeish Itach”--Do not tell your friend: “Go and return and tomorrow I will give, though you have it with you”. The Chofetz Chaim teaches that the ‘friend’ referred to in this Pasuk is the Yetzer HaTov--who is the true friend of a person, and advises him how to do good. What Shlomo HaMelech is teaching is that one should not say “I will do this good tomorrow, that good tomorrow, learn double tomorrow, come on time tomorrow, daven better tomorrow, do that Chesed tomorrow--for each day is independent of the next and is truly a world onto itself.” Just as one would not push away the good advice of his best friend, should he not delay fulfilling the suggestions, the advice, the urgings of his best of all friends--the Yetzer Hatov--to do good not tomorrow--but today!

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MALEI RACHAMIM: The Berditchever Rebbe, Z’tl, provides a great insight as to the profundity of Hashem’s Rachmanus upon us. In the Selichos, we say that “Anu Melei’ei Avon V’Ata Malei Rachamim--we are full of sin and You are full of mercy.” The difference in our being malei avon is that we may have 150 lbs., 200 lbs. or so of sin that we are filled with--but Hashem fills the entire universe--and He is full of mercy!

Hakhel Note: Let us especially focus in our Tefillos in pleading with Hashem to shower upon us the mercy that He is so filled with! It is essential that we focus on the term Racheim, Rachamim, Rachamecha, etc. in our Tefillos!

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MORE ON TEFILLAH: Tefillah is so essential for us to focus upon at this time of year. Set forth below is a listing of important reminders relating to Tefillah, which have been culled from the Dirshu Edition of the Mishna Berurah to Shulchan Orach Chaim 90:

A. The Chasam Sofer writes that Chana davened within four Amos of Eili HaKohein because it is a Segulah Nifla’ah to daven at the side of a Tzaddik.

B. Although the Shulchan Aruch rules that a person should be Mishtadel (apparently meaning only to make an effort) to daven in Shul with a Minyan, HaRav Moshe Feinstein, Z’tl (Igros Moshe, Orach Chaim 2:27 and 3:7) writes that it is a Chiyuv B’Ikar Mitzvas Tefillah--it is an obligation going to the essence of the Mitzvah of Tefillah to daven with a minyan in Shul, for when one davens by himself, even if he is a Gadol and a Tzaddik, he is not assured of being answered. Hakhel Note: Obviously, women have a different basis and standard in this regard. Everybody has their duties and their roles!

C. HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, rules that children who have reached the age of Chinuch and can answer to Kaddish and Kedusha are included in the principle of BeRov Am Hadras Melech--and their presence in Shul adds to the davening of the entire Tzibbur.

D. The Mishna Berurah (seif katan 55) writes that a Bais HaMidrash which is used by the many to learn Torah has greater Kedusah than a regular Shul, and that it is better to daven there with only ten people than in a Shul where there are many Mispalelim--even if one does not learn there at all! If one does learn there, one should preferably daven within four Amos of the place that he learns, as it has a higher level of Kedusha for him.

E. One should not look at or face pictures and drawings (and certainly not a mirror or glass where he can see his own image) when davening. The Steipeler Gaon, Z’tl, would not daven in a Sukkah in front of pictures of Gedolim which were placed there as decorations.

F. One should try to be among the first ten of the Mispalilim for a Minyan. The Machatzis HaShekel writes that within the first ten, the earlier you are, the greater the inyan (and reward). Even if one is not among the first ten, the Aruch HaShulchan writes, one should try to come as close to the first ten as possible, so that he will draw Kedusha earlier.

G. The Mishna Berurah (seif katan 39) writes (directly from Chazal) that one who arrives in Shul early for Shacharis and Maariv is Zoche to Arichus Yamim.

H. If a person in Shul realizes that he is davening Shemone Esrei in the wrong direction, for example one in New York realizes that he is davening towards the west and not the east, he should pick up his feet and change them to the right direction. If one is not in Shul, he should keep his feet together and move his head to the right direction. If this is not possible, he should keep his heart (his thoughts and intentions) towards the Kodesh HaKedoshim.

I. HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, rules that when at the Kosel it is not preferable to daven inside the ‘cave’ even though it has a roof and is enclosed which is usually a prerequisite for Shemone Esrei, because the entire area by the Kosel is a Makom Tefillah. Hakhel Note: In the Zechus of our sincere Tefillos, may we soon be zoche to daven on the other side of the Kosel’s wall!

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13 Elul

CONCLUSION OF OUR SUMMER IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM! We conclude our Summer Improvement Program, with simple suggestions, on a weekly basis, in each of the areas of Bein Adam LaMakom, Bein Adam L’Chaveiro, and Bein Adam L’Atzmo. Of course, these are only suggestions--but every person has the opportunity to join with others who will be attempting the same successes.

CONCLUDING WEEK--SUMMER 5778

WEEK 12--PARASHAS KI SAVO

Bli neder, at least one time today, consciously do the following:

Bein Adam LaMakom:

As we draw closer to the Yomim Nora’im, in which a great emphasis is placed upon our Tefillos, we must make a new and special effort to improve our Tefillos--before the Yomim Nora’im--in some real and tangible way. Please remember that the Teshuvas HaRashba (5:1), writes that just as the Aseres Yemei Teshuva is the Eis Ratzon of the year, so too, is Tefillas Mincha the Eis Ratzon of the day. Let us appreciate and utilize each and every Tefillas Mincha for the tremendous opportunity that it is--starting today!

Bein Adam L’Chaveiro:

Many times we do an important Chesed for another person--helping him with advice, being a good listener, taking the person’s name to daven for him…but as the next day comes, new and different circumstances and situations present themselves, and we may forget the person who we so helped or benefited just a day or two or three before. It would certainly be most beneficial for a person to keep a note to follow-up in a day or two or more on how this person feels, how that person fared, or whether he still needs this, or she is still looking for somebody for that. The follow-up to the initial Chesed not only provides shleimus, a completeness to the act of Chesed itself--it also provides a shleimus to the person completing it. Try to follow up, at least once a day with a person or project that you had started to assist with several days earlier.

Bein Adam L’Atzmo:

We are all familiar with the famous Ma’aseh reported of the Chofetz Chaim, Z’tl, being given the room in an inn next to Rebbi Yisroel Salanter, Z’tl. The Chofetz Chaim reported that the whole night he could hear Rebbi Yisroel Salanter repeating the following teaching (Avos 4:28): “Rebbi Elazar HaKapar Omer: HaKinah V’HaTa’avah VeHakavod Motzi’in Es Ha’adam Min HaOlam--jealousy, desire, and honor, r’l remove a person from the world.” One must constantly remind himself of these three horrendous middos which seek to undermine a person’s very existence in this world. If he can do battle with them, then they will not succeed in removing him from the world--and the great and clear implication is that doing battle will bring a person further life. As Rebbi Yisroel Salanter did, one should remind himself of Rebbi Elazar HaKapar’s teaching--and implement it, as Rebbi Yisroel certainly did as well!

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MAKE IT WORK FOR YOU! We will soon be definitively working on Kabalos for 5778. Let us bli neder commit to make those Kabalos practical ones that will be written into a notebook or kept in a log on an ongoing basis in order to assist in compliance--to be reviewed next year at this time--hopefully, in its zechus, in the Beis HaMikdash!

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AIN OD MILEVADO: In addition to his great mastery in Halacha, Rabbi Shlomo Pearl, Z’tl, whose yahrzeit was yesterday urged all of his students and listeners to constantly express “Ain Od Milevado” and “I love You Hashem!” One can view a listing and a summary of some of his Shiurim in Halacha at www.seetorah.com In his memory, we once again post the link to the Ain Od Milevado passage from the Sefer Nefesh HaChaim http://tinyurl.com/5a6qmy--something each and every one of us should perhaps be reciting daily at this time of year.

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CLEANING UP MONETARY MATTERS: The Business Halacha Hotline notifies us that using a friend’s credit card or family member’s credit card for purchases or taking advantage of his special finance offers can involve serious ribbis issues. For more information, and to discuss options for rectifying a Halachically problematic situation, one can call the Business Halacha’s Confidential Shailah Hotline FOR ALL MONETARY MATTERS is 877-845-8455. By email, one may send the Shailah to ask@businesshalacha.com

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FROM THINK HASHEM DAILY:

“When we prepare for Rosh Hashana during the month of Elul with Teshuva, Hashem creates Malachim in proportion to that preparation that will escort us in and testify on our behalf during the days of judgment.”

(Rav Tzvi Mayer Zilberberg, Shlita, based on Seforim)

To subscribe to Think Hashem Daily, email: thinkhashem@ateresshimon.org

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REMEMBERING THE PURPOSE OF LIFE! As we encounter many people during a given day, we may notice that most of them do not have specific direction in the purpose of life. The Mesilas Yesharim provides the purpose to us in one supernal sentence. It is: “La’avod, V’La’amod B’Nisayon, U’Lekayeim HaMitzvos--to serve Hashem, overcome tribulations and fulfill Mitzvos.” Whenever we are faced with a particular feeling, encounter, event or situation--we should recall this eternity bearing guidance of the Mesilas Yesharim, and think about and actualize how one’s attitude, approach or reaction will fit into--his purpose of life!

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THE GYM VS. THE SPA: Rabbi Ben Tzion Shafier, Shlita, gives the Mashal of a person who checks into a five star hotel, and is shown the entrance to the state-of-the-art gym on the right, and the wondrous spa on the left. The person intends to enter the gym, workout hard and well--and then go to the spa as his after-workout reward. He mistakenly takes a left turn and ends up in the spa. He decides to stay and spends the entire time in the pleasure-filled experience, but remains an unhealthier person for it. The Nimshal is, of course, someone who ignores the purpose of this world--the gym in which to workout--so that he can enter the spa ready to enjoy its true rewards, and instead goes straight to the spa, whose experience in this way is worth infinitely less than had he gone to the gym first as he should have. Truth be told, we have many gym vs. spa choices every day--let us turn right to the gym in each and every case--so that we can attain the true measure of value of the spa--which, instead of for 120 years, will last for eternity!

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SEVERAL ADDITIONAL POINTS AND POINTERS RELATING TO THE ELEVATED DAYS OF ELUL:

A. In the Seforim that give Eitzos L’Yom HaDin--advice as to how one can succeed at the time of judgment, one of the leading items on every list is to be Dan L’Chaf Zechus--to judge others favorably. This means that just as one can, in almost all cases, find a rational reason or excuse for what he has done, one must do the same for others. The critical view of another, especially in the difficult and self-centered western society we live in, may be viewed as a more cautious and more appropriate approach in many circumstances. We note, however, that this is an absolutely incorrect approach when viewing your family members and your friends, who are serious Torah Jews. If one indeed finds that he ‘naturally’ looks at everything and everyone with that critical eye, we may suggest that, just as we noted yesterday--that one can and should daven for Hashem to help him with Teshuvah (Hashiveini V’Ashuvah Ki Atta Hashem Elokai!)--so too, should he daven to Hashem to help guide him to judge others in a more favorable light. The very fact that we daven for Hashem’s help is an indication of the direction we wish to turn.

B. The Ba’alei Mussar teach that one great technique to defeat the Yetzer Hara is to simply delay, push off that which he is trying to accomplish--whether it be anger, overindulging, the inappropriate word, the questionable charge, or any of the other tests that face us daily. There is an important counterpart to this. It is--when a Mitzvah presents itself, not to in any way defer or delay it, or condition it upon something else happening--but rather perform it without allowing time for the Yetzer Hara to negotiate. Just as one succeeds by slowing down the path to an aveirah or even a questionable act, he should speed up the path to the Mitzvah before the surprising detour or road block can be deceitfully placed. The concept, of course, applies to one’s Torah studies as well. If one needs to look up something, he can write it down to look up later, and it may end up on a ‘to-do’ list--or he can exert the effort of standing up, going to the Sefer that he needs, opening it, finding what he needs--and bringing the matter to its prompt conclusion. Every step along the way--the standing up, the walking, the opening of the Sefer--and even the pleasure of finding what one was looking for--are all separate parts of the joyous accomplishment of a Mitzvah in its prompt and proper time!

C. Chazal (Brachos 29B) teach that Eliyahu taught Rav Yehuda: “Lo Tirtach VeLo Sechetei--do not get angry, for through your anger you will come to sin.” If we are looking for ways at this time of year to avoid sin, avoiding anger at all costs is certainly an important one! As we feel a moment of frustration, irritation, annoyance or anger setting in or coming on--let us remember the teaching of none other than Eliyahu HaNavi-- Lo Tirtach VeLo Sechetei.

D. A fascinating point made by HaRav Chaim Friedlander, Z’tl, is that when Hashem remembers each and every one of our deeds on Rosh Hashana, He not only remembers them on a singular and individual basis, but how on an aggregate basis all of the actions over the year shape a person into a different human being--reaching towards his potential, or c’v, away from it. We must know that Hashem’s remembrance of us is (Zichronos)--are not dry notations on a computer, but are Hashem’s notes of what we had done ‘Lifnei Chisei Chevodecha--before Hashem’s throne.” Hashem’s notes contain everything that needs to be read between the lines, and especially give everything we do, whether we perceive the action to be ‘major’ or ‘minor’, the true importance they deserve--because of who we really are.

E. The Ba’al HaTurim (Shemos 38:27) teaches that the 100 brachos we make every day correspond to the 100 adanim that supported the walls of the Mishkan--for just as the 100 adanim were the base upon which the Mishkan rested, so too, are our 100 brachos the base for our Avodas Hashem, which brings the Shechina into our lives on a constant basis. Through a bracha, HaRav Friedlander writes, we not only remind ourselves about Hashem’s presence in the world, but remind ourselves that Hashem is before us and close to us--as, after all, we recite the word ‘Atta’. HaRav Friedlander especially suggests that in the days of Elul, as a preparation for Malchiyos and Zichronos, one strengthen himself in the area of brachos. He specifically suggests the following two items: (1) After reciting the words ‘Baruch Atta’ one should stop before reciting the word ‘Hashem’ and think: ‘I am about to mention the name of Hashem; and (2) When reciting the words ‘Hashem Elokeinu’ one should think that Hashem is ‘Master of All, He Was, Is and Will Be, and at His Will keeps everything in existence.’ If one feels that these two wonderful steps are too difficult for all brachos, HaRav Friedlander suggests that it be done when reciting Birkas HaNehenin (HaMotzi, Shehakol, etc. and Asher Yatzar). Through this, one will bring himself closer to Hashem at various points of the day…and Hashem is close to all who are close to Him!

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LESSONS FROM THE TENTH ANI MA’AMIN: The Mishna in Rosh Hashanah (1:2) teaches us how Rosh Hashanah is different than the other three times of the year (Pesach, Shavuos, and Sukkos) during which we are also judged. Rosh Hashanah, the Mishna teaches, is different because “Kol Ba’ei Olam Ovrin Lefanav--all who come into the world pass are judged individually, as they pass before Hashem as if they are walking in a single file.” The Mishna brings a Pasuk in Tehillim (33:15) to explain how Hashem could judge the billions mixed together all over the world as unique, individual creatures. The Pasuk says: “HaYotzeir Yachad Lebam HaMeivin El Kol Ma’aseihem”--because Hashem formed every aspect of every being, He can fully comprehend every single individual’s actions, words, and thoughts. In fact, the tenth Ani Ma’amin also quotes this very same Pasuk and reads as follows: (Artscroll translation) “I believe with complete faith that the Creator, Blessed is His Name, knows all the deeds of human beings and their thoughts, as it says, “HaYotzeir Yachad Libam….” This is the only Pasuk quoted in any of the Ani Ma’amins.

We now would like to share with you a stunning thought, which can provide a tremendous source of guidance, and special zechuyos, for the time period that we are in. Let us go to Tehillim Chapter 33, and review the Pesukim which immediately follow this telling Pasuk quoted both in the Mishna in Rosh Hashanah and in the tenth Ani Ma’amin. After this Pasuk, Dovid HaMelech continues by teaching us what the upshot, what the consequence, is of Hashem’s having created us and comprehending all of our deeds. Once again, we provide the Artscroll translation: “A king is not saved by a great army, nor is a hero rescued by great strength; sham is the horse for salvation; despite its great strength it provides no escape. Behold the eyes of Hashem are on those who fear Him, upon those who await His kindness, to rescue their soul from death, and to sustain them in famine. Our soul longed for Hashem--our hope and our shield is He. For in Him will our hearts be glad, for in His Holy Name we trusted. May Your kindness Hashem be upon us, just as we awaited You.”

With these revealing words, Dovid Hamelech paves a pathway for us to follow in our Avodas Hashem. Now that we know that Hashem knows every single thing about us--What is it that Hashem really would like to see? As highlighted above, Hashem looks to those who fear Him, who are awed by His all-knowing, all-encompassing, and infinite greatness and who look to Hashem for His closeness, for His kindness. Surely, if we would fear a lion, a bear, a terrorist, a car that is out-of-control, we should be in absolute and unfettered awe of the Creator of all creatures and all circumstances and events! When we recognize Hashem’s complete authority and control, we also realize that everything we have is wholly the result of His kindness, as we partake of the Royal Table in various ways throughout the day. Throughout the day we should express our needs to Hashem, and thank Him for what we realize He has given us and continues to give us. As we look at our hopes for the coming year, we must look back at the highlighted Pasuk, and realize how powerful its teaching really is, and how crucial it is in our life. If we can remind ourselves of this Pasuk daily, we can go far in avoiding the strictness of Din, and bring Hashem’s kindness upon us…just as we awaited it!

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10 Elul

THIRTY DAYS FROM TODAY WILL BE THE YOM HAKADOSH--YOM KIPPUR!

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YOU ARE NOT SURROUNDED! In this week’s Parasha, we learn that when we go to war against our enemies, Hashem will give it over to us. If there are many enemies, shouldn’t Hashem give them over to us? The Ba’alei Mussar explain that this is one of the ruses of the Yetzer Hara--for a person to feel surrounded by enemies, with no choice but to give up and surrender. The Torah, however, specifically attests that this is not true! It is really only one enemy--the Yetzer Hara--and you are not surrounded-- if you don’t give up, but instead go out to fight and take the offensive--then the perceived encirclement will be lifted for you by Hashem Himself--as the Yetzer Hara goes down to splendid and thorough defeat!

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SMELL THE KETORES! In the Parasha, we also learn that when we go out to war against our enemies, “Venishmarta Mekol Davar Rah” (Devarim 23:10). The word davar (thing) is similar to dibur (speech), and accordingly, the Pasuk is interpreted to mean that a person should be especially careful from Lashon Hara and bad speech in order to be saved in a time of war. HaRav Chaim Kanievsky, Shlita, points out that because of the gravity of the aveirah of negative speech, it could literally be a deciding factor as to whether a person will live in a time of danger. Indeed, Shlomo HaMelech clearly teaches “Maves V’Chaim BeYad HaLashon--death and life are in the hand of the tongue” (Mishlei 18:21). It is truly fascinating to point out that Chazal teach that the only avodah which preceded the Korban Tamid Shel Shachar in the morning was the Ketores. Why was this so--why should any avodah come before the Karbon Tamid in the morning? We may suggest that the Ketores brought Kapparah for the sin of Lashon Hara (Zevachim 88B). Accordingly, before the Avodah of the Karbon Tamid and the rest of the avodos of the day could take effect, the sin of Lashon Hara had to be cleared--so that we could go on with life for the upcoming day.

Hakhel Suggestion: After saying Modeh Ani upon awakening in the morning, it may be a wonderful Kabbalah for one to state that he intends to be a Shomer Piv U’Leshono in all of his endeavors today!

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D’VEIKUS! A reader provided a great insight from the Malbim, which may be helpful in our understanding of why we recite L’Dovid Hashem Ori (Tehillim, Chapter 27) from Elul until Hoshana Rabbah. In this Kepitel, Dovid HaMelech relates: “Achas Sha’alti Mei’eis Hashem Osah Avakeish Shivti B’Veis Hashem Kol Yemei Chayai--there is one thing I ask for and seek--to dwell in the house of Hashem all the days of my life.” Dovid HaMelech had many responsibilities and perhaps millions to care for. Health, happiness, Shalom Bayis, Parnassah was definitely on his mind, but when all is put into perspective, all of the details and particulars of one’s personal, and one’s communal, needs--ultimately they all lead to one life goal--D’veikus B’Hashem. One has (or should have) a lot on his mind in Elul. With all that, he must keep his focus as to what it is all for, what it is all about. We therefore recite this Kepitel twice every day--to keep us focused and aimed at our true, ultimate, and everlasting goal!

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MIDDAH K’NEGED MIDDAH: Once received from a reader:

“If I will overlook people’s shortcomings….Hashem will overlook mine.

If I won’t be exacting with other people…Hashem will not be exacting with me.

If I won’t scrutinize other people and look at their faults…Hashem will not scrutinize me and look at my faults.

Hashem has made Middah K’neged Middah a basis of the world’s existence--let’s be smart!”

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REMINDER--FROM THE ROSH: The Rosh--a Rishon--reminds us in the Orchos Chaim L’Rosh (81): “Ahl Tabit Lemi Shehu Koton Mimecha BeAvodah U’VeYirah Ki Im LeGadol Mimecha”--do not look at someone who is lower than you spiritually and compare yourself to him, but rather to someone greater than you--so rather than becoming smug and complacent, you grow into who you really can be.

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WE CONTINUE WITH OUR EREV SHABBOS HALACHOS OF SHABBOS SERIES:

1. As we continue to focus upon Hashem’s Malchus, and the re-coronation on Rosh Hashana, we note that every Shabbos we recite the words: “Yismechu VeMalchusecha Shomerei Shabbos V’Korei Oneg--those who observe Shabbos and call it a delight, rejoice in Your Kingship.” Although there is no special Halacha of physical Simcha on Shabbos as there is on Yom Tov, there is a more sublime and supernal feeling of joy in Hashem’s Malchus…each and every Shabbos.

2. In tomorrow’s laining we are privileged to have two of the Sheish Zechiros, which many of us recite daily after Shacharis. The Luach Davar Be’ito brings the Magein Avraham (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 60, seif katan 2) who writes that one should have Kavannah to fulfill the Mitzvas Asei DeOraysa of remembering what happened to Miriam when the words “Zachar Eis Asher Asa Hashem Elokecha LeMiriam…” are read in the sixth aliyah (Devarim 24:9). The Luach recommends that an announcement be made before Shishi to this effect!

3. Rebbi Yisroel Salanter, Z’tl, teaches that the ‘Aleph-Bais’ of Teshuvah is learning the Halachos of the topic or item for which Teshuvah is required. How many can look back at the previous year and affirm that there was no slippage, mistake, or ignorance, with respect to his Shabbos observance? A reader once advised us that he put a pitcher of water into the freezer on Leil Shabbos before going to sleep, and took it out on Shabbos morning before going to Shul, so that he would have very cold water without ice at his Shabbos Seudah. On the way to Shul that morning, he realized that he had two issues--1. Was he allowed to place the water into the freezer to freeze in the first place? and 2. Was he then permitted to take the frozen water out of the freezer to defrost into ice cold water in the pitcher--or was he intentionally creating water from ice (‘molid’). He looked up the Shailah on his own (without consulting a Rav), determined that his actions were permissible, and drank the water. Whether or not his conclusions were ultimately correct, what he reported to us determines the need to think before you act, the need to study the Halachos of Shabbos (certainly on Shabbos itself!)--and the need to consult with a Rav on matters of which one is not totally sure.

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POINTS AND POINTERS ON THIS WEEK’S PARASHA, PARASHAS KI SEITZAI:

A. Rabbi Pliskin, in another one of his outstanding Seforim, Growth Through Torah on the Parasha (p. 494-495), brings the following. “The Aishes Yefas Toar must cry over her parents for a period of thirty days. The Ramban explains that thirty days is the amount of time necessary for her to remove the attachment to her idols from her mouth and heart. Rabbi Chaim Zaitchek, Z’tl, comments that we learn from here that to really change a trait it takes a thirty-day period of intense work. This is the principle of the month of Elul which is a time for us to focus on our behavior and traits in order to make a major improvement in ourselves. A person tries to work on a trait for a day or two, and when he does not see improvement he becomes discouraged and gives up. When you want to improve any trait, give yourself thirty days of serious effort in order to see visible changes. While some people are able to make changes very quickly, even they need a significant amount of time in order to ensure that the new habits become second nature. Even if you do not see any positive changes in the first week or two, if you will persevere for an entire thirty days, you will begin to see the fruits of your labor.”

B. The Sefas Emes provides two great lessons from this week’s Parasha for us to always take with us:

1. Some of the most famous Mitzvos in the Parasha relate to returning lost objects to others. Since, the Sefas Emes notes, we are duty bound to love others as ourselves--and not more--then we must most certainly endeavor to return lost objects to ourselves as well. With respect to our physical possessions, we must be aware that Hashem has entrusted us with objects--and be sure to get them back if borrowed or taken (unless Tzedaka or chesed is involved), and certainly not squander them. Spiritually--we must ‘return’ to be the person we are supposed to be. Elul is a time when we can return to ourselves that which so much belongs to us--our strengths, talents, energy and goals in Avodas Hashem. This Parasha, always read in Elul, clearly provides us a stark reminder to us to bring as much as we can back home. Additional Note: Whenever you help return a lost object to someone else--let it serve as a Hashgacha Pratis reminder to you that you should also be returning something lost to yourself!

2. The Pasuk teaches that it is a Mitzvah to help its owner when an animal or the burden upon it has fallen. The Torah specifically says “Hakeim Tokim Imo--you shall surely stand them up with him.” The Sefas Emes notes that the Torah does not simply use the word “Oso”-help him, but “Imo”--with him, because when you are helping another, when you display Rachmanus, compassion and care for the difficulty of someone else, than you are really not only helping him, but helping yourself. In fact, while you are helping him only once, you are helping yourself for a lifetime and beyond. How remarkable! You are not merely picking up a package--you are raising up yourself!

C. The Torah states that one who is to receive makkos--lashes for his transgression is to receive up to 40, as the Torah states: Arba’im Yakenu Lo Yosif. Why does the Torah use the number “40”--especially if the maximum is really 39? See Ramban to Devorim 25:3.

D. The following Shailos U’Teshuvos relating to the Mitzvah of Shiluach HaKain are excerpted from the Divrei Siach on this week’s Parasha:

QUESTION: Is there an obligation to perform Shiluach HaKain every time the situation presents itself to a person?

ANSWER: No, but there certainly is an inyan ahl pi kabbalah to do so.

QUESTION: is it better to perform the Mitzvah of Shiluach HaKain by yourself--or to ask a Shaliach to do so, so that you can study Torah during that time?

ANSWER: “Mitzvah Bo Yoser MeBeshelucho--it is better for him to do the Mitzvah himself.”

QUESTION: If a katan performs Shiluach HaKain--will it be a segulah for him even when he becomes a Gadol?

ANSWER: Yes!

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AS NOTED ABOVE, THE PARASHA BEGINS WITH THE FAMOUS WORDS: “WHEN YOU GO TO WAR AGAINST YOUR ENEMIES...”

What makes this world so special is that it gives us the opportunity to succeed against the Yetzer Hara. Each success against the Yetzer Hara is a great victory, and these are the greatest of all earthly battles (Mesilas Yeshorim, Introduction).

But just like an army needs the best equipment and strategies in order to emerge victorious, so too must we be prepared with the best tools and weapons for our success.

There are two basic “War Room” strategies which we have previously provided for success against the Yetzer Hara. Remember, the Yetzer Hara is exceedingly sly (“orum”), and also acts as the Satan and the Maloch HaMovess. We must meet the challenge and respond in kind.

Strategy One: Eliminate the Choice. The Yetzer Hara often outwits his victim by presenting a choice to him and coaxing him to make the wrong choice. To avoid making the wrong choice, one should see himself as a “muchrach”, as one being forced to do the right thing, and not have any choice in the manner.

Here is a simple example (you can come up with the harder ones):

Should I give this quarter to tzedakah before Shacharis? I could, but it is my last quarter, and I may need it for a parking meter later today, and then what will I do?

The muchrach will respond “I must give the quarter to tzedakah because it is Shacharis time, and it is appropriate to give tzedakah now (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chayim 92:10).

Simply stated, you must eliminate the choice. Just as in Olam Haba, there will eventually be no choice because everything will become so clear to us, so too, one can make it all clear now, as well.

Strategy Two: ImagineWho You Can Be! Strategy One is, of course, successful when you realize that in front of you lies a choice. What if the Yetzer Hara simply “blindsides” you by placing you in a situation where you are face-to-face with an aveirah?

Simple example one (you can come up with the harder ones):

You turn around on a crowded subway and the only person facing you is Harriet, the Lashon Hara monger.

Simple example two: You sit down in a restaurant with a non-Jewish co-worker, are about to order, and you realize that the hashgacha is inferior.

Strategy Two involves the use of mental imagery to defeat the Yetzer Hara. One form of mental imagery is thinking about a situation that could come up, and how to handle it before it happens—what happens if I meet up with a person who starts speaking Loshon Hara—how will I deal with it? Or, how can I explain kashrus and its stringencies to the non-Frum or non-Jew? If one has already imagined the situation, he may be very well-equipped to deal with it when it really happens.

A second, perhaps more powerful, image is a picture of a human being confronting some kind of vivid punishment or “Gehinnom”, thinking, is it really worth it for me to do what I am about to do? Chazal tell the story of a great person, who, when confronted with sin, ran over to a hot stove, and said “He who does this, falls into this.” What an image!

In a more positive light, one can imagine a very bright, immense and infinite paradise for following the Torah’s ways. Overcoming the situation will bring beautiful victory for a person, his family, and Klal Yisrael.

The above are two proven strategies. As the clocks ticks up towards Rosh Hashanah, we urge you to try the winning side.

May this year be a year of victory for all of Klal Yisrael!

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FROM TEACHINGS FOR ELUL FROM HARAV NOSSON WACHTFOGEL, Z’TL: The following teachings of HaRav Nosson Wachtfogel, Z’tl, the Mashgiach of the Lakewood Yeshiva, are excerpted from the Sefer Leket Reshimos (on Elul and the Yomim Noraim):

1. The growth of a person is measured by the toil and effort he puts into his Avodas Hashem, and one who does not put in the effort really has nothing. No drop of sweat goes to waste.

2. One should not treat Elul as the rest of the year, for the whole next year will be dependent upon how one progresses in Elul. In Bein Adam LeChaveiro, one should work on being Noseih B’Ohl Im Chaveiro--joining as one with another, viewing his burdens as one’s own burdens and his joys as one’s own joys. This is the actualization of V’Ahavta LeRei’acha Kamocha.

3. Elul is the acronym of “Ani LeDodi VeDodi Li. We act irresponsibly only because we push aside our true royalty and bearing. Hashem told Yirmiyahu HaNavi (1:7): “Ahl Tomar Na’ar Anochi--do not say “I am but a youth”--Hashem tells this to each and every one of us.

4. Chazal teach that one who is Ma’avir Ahl Midosav will be forgiven for his sins. The reason that this is so is because by being Ma’avir Ahl Hamidos, a person demonstrates that he is not only concerned with himself--but cares about others as well. He therefore joins in with the merits of K’lal Yisrael.

5. It is the end that is important--if a person was a Tzaddik all of his days, and then c’v becomes a Rasha, he will be judged as a Rasha. Happily, the reverse is also true. Now, looking back at the beginning of the year, we may have started off Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur in a great way. It is, however, important to end the year in a great way--with the Sha’arei Rachamim and Ratzon open wide to help us.

6. Before going to sleep and upon arising, HaRav Wachtfogel advised that one daven that he be zoche to Teshuvah Nechonah--proper Teshuvah.

7. It is hard for us to feel awe because we do not have world leaders who inspire it. What we can do, however, is think about Kriyas Yam Suf, and how the Torah records: “Az Nivhalu Alufei Edom Eilei Mo’av Yochazeimo Ra’ad Namogu Kol Yoshevei Kena’an.” If these akum sensed Hashem’s Gevurah through these awesome sights--we should likewise envision similar Gevuros to appreciate Hashem’s Majesty.

8. A person should never despair or get depressed over the thoughts, words or actions of his past--as he is judged only according to his deeds at the time of judgment. If at that time he is a Tzaddik, he will be judged as one. It is accordingly the Avodah of Elul to prepare for Rosh Hashana so that one is a Tzaddik at that time.

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