NY Scrambles to Move Primary
PM: France is facing violent ‘new form of anti-Semitism’
The Purpose of Creation
31 Jan 2018
30 Jan 2018
Being critical
Tu B’Shvat, Limud HaTorah And The Zchus For Shidduchim
JOIN THE TEFILLAH ON THE DAY OF TU B’SHVAT
Establishment Media Bury Obama-Farrakhan Photo
12-Year-Old Being Honored By Trumps At SOTU For Placing U.S. Flags And Flowers At The Graves Of Veterans Since 2015
Rashi tells us that Yisro had 7 names. One was ‘Yeser' - because he "added" a parsha to the Torah, by giving Moshe advice to take help when judging Klal Yisroel. Rashi says that the parsha he added was "ViAtah Sechezeh' - and you shall seek out from the people judges who are wealthy, G-d fearing, etc.
The Gerer Rebbe asks, isn't it odd that Rashi quotes a pasuk from the middle of the story? These are not the first words of the dialogue between Yisro and Moshe. Rashi should have quoted the earlier words of Yisro (pasuk 17) - "Lo Tov HaDavar Asher Atah Oseh" - ‘It is not correct what you are doing by judging alone." Why did Rashi quote verse 21?
The Rebbe answers, it's easy to be critical about what someone else is doing. "You are doing it wrong!" I can do it better!" If one wants to give constructive criticism, he should offer a better way. By just saying, "what you're doing is wrong!" is not sufficient. Show the other person a better way how to do it. This is why Rashi does not quote the opening words of Yisro, "Lo Tov HaDavar Asher Atah Oseh"; since that would just be a standard criticism. Rashi wants to stress that Yisro criticized and offered wholesome advice. That is why he was called "Yeser'. He added the parsha in the Torah of "ViAtah Sechezeh', which are the words of his advice to Moshe.
http://revach.net/parshas-hashavua/quick-vort/Parshas-Yisro-Gerer-Rebbe-Yisros-Legacy-Is-His-Good-Advice-Not-His-Criticism/1728
This past week I was part of a WhatsApp group discussion which included the following comment.
There's a difference between giving constructive criticism and being critical. One is an opportunity for growth, the other shuts down ambition and learning.
So many relationships have been destroyed, particularly between parents and children, because of criticism. I will try to be more cognizant of what I say and apologize for any critical remarks that may have hurt someone in the past.
JOIN THE TEFILLAH ON THE DAY OF TU B’SHVAT
Establishment Media Bury Obama-Farrakhan Photo
12-Year-Old Being Honored By Trumps At SOTU For Placing U.S. Flags And Flowers At The Graves Of Veterans Since 2015
Rashi tells us that Yisro had 7 names. One was ‘Yeser' - because he "added" a parsha to the Torah, by giving Moshe advice to take help when judging Klal Yisroel. Rashi says that the parsha he added was "ViAtah Sechezeh' - and you shall seek out from the people judges who are wealthy, G-d fearing, etc.
The Gerer Rebbe asks, isn't it odd that Rashi quotes a pasuk from the middle of the story? These are not the first words of the dialogue between Yisro and Moshe. Rashi should have quoted the earlier words of Yisro (pasuk 17) - "Lo Tov HaDavar Asher Atah Oseh" - ‘It is not correct what you are doing by judging alone." Why did Rashi quote verse 21?
The Rebbe answers, it's easy to be critical about what someone else is doing. "You are doing it wrong!" I can do it better!" If one wants to give constructive criticism, he should offer a better way. By just saying, "what you're doing is wrong!" is not sufficient. Show the other person a better way how to do it. This is why Rashi does not quote the opening words of Yisro, "Lo Tov HaDavar Asher Atah Oseh"; since that would just be a standard criticism. Rashi wants to stress that Yisro criticized and offered wholesome advice. That is why he was called "Yeser'. He added the parsha in the Torah of "ViAtah Sechezeh', which are the words of his advice to Moshe.
http://revach.net/parshas-hashavua/quick-vort/Parshas-Yisro-Gerer-Rebbe-Yisros-Legacy-Is-His-Good-Advice-Not-His-Criticism/1728
This past week I was part of a WhatsApp group discussion which included the following comment.
There's a difference between giving constructive criticism and being critical. One is an opportunity for growth, the other shuts down ambition and learning.
So many relationships have been destroyed, particularly between parents and children, because of criticism. I will try to be more cognizant of what I say and apologize for any critical remarks that may have hurt someone in the past.
29 Jan 2018
Barring entry
Dita Kraus: The librarian of Auschwitz
Video: Sir Nicholas Winton, ‘British Schindler,’ Saved 669 Children From Holocaust
Is "Fake News" Being Overused?
My Country Bars Enemies From Entry. Yours Would Do the Same.
Two messages for Michelle Goldberg @michelleinbklyn, @NYTimes writer
Parshat Yitro: Goodness as freedom
Video: Sir Nicholas Winton, ‘British Schindler,’ Saved 669 Children From Holocaust
Is "Fake News" Being Overused?
My Country Bars Enemies From Entry. Yours Would Do the Same.
Two messages for Michelle Goldberg @michelleinbklyn, @NYTimes writer
Parshat Yitro: Goodness as freedom
28 Jan 2018
The Tefillah
RU Single? (It’s Free) Or know someone then tell them about the Tefillah in Amuka on Tu B’Shvat
Mrs. Chomie Weiss, 40, OBM
01/27 Links: Through Jerusalem, Trump has changed the world; Bill Maher Defends Trump's Jerusalem Decision; World remembers Holocaust amid signs of rising hatred
The FBI will not turn over Deputy Director Andrew McCabe‘s text messages!
"הרב פאדווא למנהלים: "לעמוד במסירות נפש ולא לחתום
The New York Times on Israel’s ‘Biological’ Racism
Mrs. Chomie Weiss, 40, OBM
01/27 Links: Through Jerusalem, Trump has changed the world; Bill Maher Defends Trump's Jerusalem Decision; World remembers Holocaust amid signs of rising hatred
The FBI will not turn over Deputy Director Andrew McCabe‘s text messages!
"הרב פאדווא למנהלים: "לעמוד במסירות נפש ולא לחתום
The New York Times on Israel’s ‘Biological’ Racism
27 Jan 2018
Holocaust Remembrance Day
World Remembers Holocaust Amid Signs of Rising Hatred
Holocaust Survivor: Hitler Tried To Kill Me, But ‘I Won, Not Him’ | TODAY - In the video, Nat Shaffir relates tha tone of his neighbors, a priest, used to come by once a week to ask his father for contributions to the church and some dairy products for some of the congregants who couldn't afford it otherwise. One day in 1942 the same priest came by with police officers and soldiers and denounced the family as Jews.
New York Times Editorial Condemning Pence Israel Trip Tells Its Own Sad Tale
Rashi tells us that Yisro had 7 names. One was ‘Yeser' - because he "added" a parsha to the Torah, by giving Moshe advice to take help when judging Klal Yisroel. Rashi says that the parsha he added was "ViAtah Sechezeh' - and you shall seek out from the people judges who are wealthy, G-d fearing, etc.
The Gerer Rebbe asks, isn't it odd that Rashi quotes a pasuk from the middle of the story? These are not the first words of the dialogue between Yisro and Moshe. Rashi should have quoted the earlier words of Yisro (pasuk 17) - "Lo Tov HaDavar Asher Atah Oseh" - ‘It is not correct what you are doing by judging alone." Why did Rashi quote verse 21?
The Rebbe answers, it's easy to be critical about what someone else is doing. "You are doing it wrong!" I can do it better!" If one wants to give constructive criticism, he should offer a better way. By just saying, "what you're doing is wrong!" is not sufficient. Show the other person a better way how to do it. This is why Rashi does not quote the opening words of Yisro, "Lo Tov HaDavar Asher Atah Oseh"; since that would just be a standard criticism. Rashi wants to stress that Yisro criticized and offered wholesome advice. That is why he was called "Yeser'. He added the parsha in the Torah of "ViAtah Sechezeh', which are the words of his advice to Moshe.
http://revach.net/parshas-hashavua/quick-vort/Parshas-Yisro-Gerer-Rebbe-Yisros-Legacy-Is-His-Good-Advice-Not-His-Criticism/1728
Holocaust Survivor: Hitler Tried To Kill Me, But ‘I Won, Not Him’ | TODAY - In the video, Nat Shaffir relates tha tone of his neighbors, a priest, used to come by once a week to ask his father for contributions to the church and some dairy products for some of the congregants who couldn't afford it otherwise. One day in 1942 the same priest came by with police officers and soldiers and denounced the family as Jews.
New York Times Editorial Condemning Pence Israel Trip Tells Its Own Sad Tale
Rashi tells us that Yisro had 7 names. One was ‘Yeser' - because he "added" a parsha to the Torah, by giving Moshe advice to take help when judging Klal Yisroel. Rashi says that the parsha he added was "ViAtah Sechezeh' - and you shall seek out from the people judges who are wealthy, G-d fearing, etc.
The Gerer Rebbe asks, isn't it odd that Rashi quotes a pasuk from the middle of the story? These are not the first words of the dialogue between Yisro and Moshe. Rashi should have quoted the earlier words of Yisro (pasuk 17) - "Lo Tov HaDavar Asher Atah Oseh" - ‘It is not correct what you are doing by judging alone." Why did Rashi quote verse 21?
The Rebbe answers, it's easy to be critical about what someone else is doing. "You are doing it wrong!" I can do it better!" If one wants to give constructive criticism, he should offer a better way. By just saying, "what you're doing is wrong!" is not sufficient. Show the other person a better way how to do it. This is why Rashi does not quote the opening words of Yisro, "Lo Tov HaDavar Asher Atah Oseh"; since that would just be a standard criticism. Rashi wants to stress that Yisro criticized and offered wholesome advice. That is why he was called "Yeser'. He added the parsha in the Torah of "ViAtah Sechezeh', which are the words of his advice to Moshe.
http://revach.net/parshas-hashavua/quick-vort/Parshas-Yisro-Gerer-Rebbe-Yisros-Legacy-Is-His-Good-Advice-Not-His-Criticism/1728
26 Jan 2018
Lost and Found
Amsterdam to Teaneck to London: Lost Tefillin Returned Thanks to Social Media’s Jewish Community
Amid funding cut fears, PA purchases $50 million private jet for Abbas — report
The Photo That Never Saw The Light of Day: Obama With Farrakhan In 2005
What Happened to Me in Auschwitz
Yud Shvat Radio Interview in 1974
Amid funding cut fears, PA purchases $50 million private jet for Abbas — report
The Photo That Never Saw The Light of Day: Obama With Farrakhan In 2005
What Happened to Me in Auschwitz
Yud Shvat Radio Interview in 1974
25 Jan 2018
24 Jan 2018
23 Jan 2018
Parshas Haman
Why is today so special? Because well meaning Jews all over the world will be saying Parshas HaMan twice with Targum Unkelus once, to merit the segula of Parnassa revealed to us by Rav Menachem Mendel of Rimanov. Does it work? Of course it does if this great tzaddik said so. However it is not so simple. What would you say if you saw someone putting on the sneakers of a world champion sprinter and claiming that he now can run faster than anyone in the whole world?
Continue reading: http://www.revach.net/avodah/innocent-observations/From-Parshas-HaMan-To-Az-Ashir/4325
Below are two headlines about the same incident, the firrst from the Daily Mail and the second from the Metro. Notice the quotes around anti-Israel on the latter headline.
First hijab-wearing model to appear in a L'Oreal haircare campaign STEPS DOWN over a series of anti-Israel tweets in 2014 in which she compared the country to a 'child murderer'
L’Oreal’s first hijabi model quits over ‘anti-Israel’ tweets
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MetroUK | Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetroUK/ It comes after tweets she wrote in 2014 were branded by some as ‘anti-Israel’, and published on MailOnline. The tweets, which appear to have called Israel an ‘illegal’ and ‘sinister state’, have now been deleted.
Read more: http://metro.co.uk/2018/01/22/loreals-first-hijabi-model-quits-anti-israel-tweets-7251097/?ito=cbshare
Continue reading: http://www.revach.net/avodah/innocent-observations/From-Parshas-HaMan-To-Az-Ashir/4325
Below are two headlines about the same incident, the firrst from the Daily Mail and the second from the Metro. Notice the quotes around anti-Israel on the latter headline.
First hijab-wearing model to appear in a L'Oreal haircare campaign STEPS DOWN over a series of anti-Israel tweets in 2014 in which she compared the country to a 'child murderer'
L’Oreal’s first hijabi model quits over ‘anti-Israel’ tweets
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MetroUK | Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetroUK/ It comes after tweets she wrote in 2014 were branded by some as ‘anti-Israel’, and published on MailOnline. The tweets, which appear to have called Israel an ‘illegal’ and ‘sinister state’, have now been deleted.
Read more: http://metro.co.uk/2018/01/22/loreals-first-hijabi-model-quits-anti-israel-tweets-7251097/?ito=cbshare
22 Jan 2018
21 Jan 2018
Leaks and tweets
Chief Rabbi: An act of desecration which harmed the synagogue
The Obama Administration’s ‘Brazen Plot To Exonerate Hillary Clinton’ Starting To Leak Out, According To Former Fed Prosecutor
Click here to read the deleted tweets against Israel which had been posted by L'Oreal's new cosmetics model.
After Krias Yam Suf the Bnei Yisroel arrived in Mara and had no water to drink because the water there was bitter. Hashem told Moshe to throw in a bitter tree and the water became sweet. After this incident the pasuk recaps and says "Sham Sam Lo Chok UMishpat VSham Nisahu"; in Mara Hashem gave them mitzvos and tested them. Why was it so important to test them?
The Netziv explains that the Torah is teaching us a valuable lesson for all generations about Bitachon and earning a living. Sometimes a person's finances come down to the last penny and it looks like he will have nothing to eat. The future looks bleak and there is no help in sight. Even then a person must be confident in Hashem that he will provide a way to support him. Hashem is "Kol Yachol" and His salvation can be provided from the most unexpected sources. Just like the bitter tree was the least expected solution to cure bitter water so too Hashem can bring your fortune from what appears to be the exact opposite, so don't ever lose hope. Hang tough, it is all just a test!
http://www.thejewisheye.com/rev_pbeshalach.html
The Obama Administration’s ‘Brazen Plot To Exonerate Hillary Clinton’ Starting To Leak Out, According To Former Fed Prosecutor
Click here to read the deleted tweets against Israel which had been posted by L'Oreal's new cosmetics model.
After Krias Yam Suf the Bnei Yisroel arrived in Mara and had no water to drink because the water there was bitter. Hashem told Moshe to throw in a bitter tree and the water became sweet. After this incident the pasuk recaps and says "Sham Sam Lo Chok UMishpat VSham Nisahu"; in Mara Hashem gave them mitzvos and tested them. Why was it so important to test them?
The Netziv explains that the Torah is teaching us a valuable lesson for all generations about Bitachon and earning a living. Sometimes a person's finances come down to the last penny and it looks like he will have nothing to eat. The future looks bleak and there is no help in sight. Even then a person must be confident in Hashem that he will provide a way to support him. Hashem is "Kol Yachol" and His salvation can be provided from the most unexpected sources. Just like the bitter tree was the least expected solution to cure bitter water so too Hashem can bring your fortune from what appears to be the exact opposite, so don't ever lose hope. Hang tough, it is all just a test!
http://www.thejewisheye.com/rev_pbeshalach.html
20 Jan 2018
The Verdict
Rabbi Moshe Hauer: INTECHIGENCE - The Verdict on the Shul Ban
AG Mandelblit accosted by protesters outside synagogue
I agree with those quoted in the article.
Justice Minister Spokesman Moshe Cohen commented on the irregular incident, saying, "The provocation in the synagogue where the attorney general prays in Petah Tikva—which desecrated Shabbat and disturbed worshipers—is deplorable. It's an utter disgrace.
Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked added, "The line of legitimate protest have been crossed recently. Harassment during Shabbat and at the attorney general's synagogue no less is violent thuggery and denigrating behavior."
Opposition Head MK Yitzhak Herzog said, "I'm appalled by the insensitive protesters' inflexibility in disturbing the attorney general as he came to pray and recite Kaddish over his late mother. It's an inhumane act. Even the freedom to protest, sanctified in Israeli democracy as it is, has lines that must not be crossed."
https://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-5073651,00.html#autoplay
Anti-Israel activists attempt to hijack Women’s March – again
Jewish Labour leader criticizes party for inaction on anti-Semitism
The video below has English captions that can be turned on.
AG Mandelblit accosted by protesters outside synagogue
I agree with those quoted in the article.
Justice Minister Spokesman Moshe Cohen commented on the irregular incident, saying, "The provocation in the synagogue where the attorney general prays in Petah Tikva—which desecrated Shabbat and disturbed worshipers—is deplorable. It's an utter disgrace.
Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked added, "The line of legitimate protest have been crossed recently. Harassment during Shabbat and at the attorney general's synagogue no less is violent thuggery and denigrating behavior."
Opposition Head MK Yitzhak Herzog said, "I'm appalled by the insensitive protesters' inflexibility in disturbing the attorney general as he came to pray and recite Kaddish over his late mother. It's an inhumane act. Even the freedom to protest, sanctified in Israeli democracy as it is, has lines that must not be crossed."
https://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-5073651,00.html#autoplay
Anti-Israel activists attempt to hijack Women’s March – again
Jewish Labour leader criticizes party for inaction on anti-Semitism
The video below has English captions that can be turned on.
19 Jan 2018
18 Jan 2018
In the merit of
In Gratitude for his Life
Man who suffered near-fatal cardiac arrest donates defibrillator to Jewish community
Can you pass Donald Trump's cognitive test? Give it a go here
Parashat Bo: The Greatest Miracle of the Exodus
Deputy Foreign Minister Tzipi Hotovely was interviewd by the BBC regarding UNWRA.
She said, “What is really counterproductive is the role of UNRWA in perpetuating the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Think about it, back in the 50s, there were 750,000 Palestinians registered as ‘refugees’. Now, almost 70 years after the war, we’ve been talking about five million peoples who are registered as ‘refugees’. This is a major failure of the organization which was supposed to resettle those people that lost a war that they started – of course, we’re speaking about their grand grand grandparents that started the Independence War which they lost.”
The BBC interviewer broke in at this point, claiming, "Different versions of history.Different versions of history, of course." Ms. Hotovely responded, "No, no, no. There is only one version for history. They started a war after not accepting the idea of the UN Partition lan.You need to remember that."
Watch the full exchange over here.
Belgium allocates $23 million to UNRWA
UNRWA was documented storing Hamas rockets and weapons "designed to kill Israeli citizens" in its schools, a fact which the UNRWA chief admitted himself.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/240822
‘Vision, Chutzpah and Some Testosterone’
Can you pass Donald Trump's cognitive test? Give it a go here
Parashat Bo: The Greatest Miracle of the Exodus
Deputy Foreign Minister Tzipi Hotovely was interviewd by the BBC regarding UNWRA.
She said, “What is really counterproductive is the role of UNRWA in perpetuating the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Think about it, back in the 50s, there were 750,000 Palestinians registered as ‘refugees’. Now, almost 70 years after the war, we’ve been talking about five million peoples who are registered as ‘refugees’. This is a major failure of the organization which was supposed to resettle those people that lost a war that they started – of course, we’re speaking about their grand grand grandparents that started the Independence War which they lost.”
The BBC interviewer broke in at this point, claiming, "Different versions of history.Different versions of history, of course." Ms. Hotovely responded, "No, no, no. There is only one version for history. They started a war after not accepting the idea of the UN Partition lan.You need to remember that."
Watch the full exchange over here.
Belgium allocates $23 million to UNRWA
UNRWA was documented storing Hamas rockets and weapons "designed to kill Israeli citizens" in its schools, a fact which the UNRWA chief admitted himself.
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/240822
‘Vision, Chutzpah and Some Testosterone’
17 Jan 2018
16 Jan 2018
Leil Shimurim
Can a Jew Love France?
As Attacks on Jews Rise in Europe, Antisemitism Is the New Cool
The night of Yetzias Mitzrayim is called Leil Shimurim from the pasuk (Bo 12:42), "Leil Shimurin Hu Lashem L'Hotzium MeiEretz Mitzrayim." The Chida says that this pasuk is a remez to a person in this world. Leil is gematria 70, which represents the 70 year life span of a person on this world. Shimurin Hu Lashem, they must be watched for Hashem.
L'Hotzium MeiEretz Mitzrayim, to take your life out of the land of Mitzrayim. Mitzrayim is from Meitzar which means tight and distressed. Living a life chasing the pleasures of Olam HaZeh causes constant pressure. By spending our lives for Hashem, we will not be strangled in this world. We will open up vistas for ourselves in this world and the next.
http://www.revach.net/parshas-hashavua/numbers-letters/Parshas-Bo-Chida-A-Leil-Shimurim-That-Lasts-A-Lifetime/4903
As Attacks on Jews Rise in Europe, Antisemitism Is the New Cool
The night of Yetzias Mitzrayim is called Leil Shimurim from the pasuk (Bo 12:42), "Leil Shimurin Hu Lashem L'Hotzium MeiEretz Mitzrayim." The Chida says that this pasuk is a remez to a person in this world. Leil is gematria 70, which represents the 70 year life span of a person on this world. Shimurin Hu Lashem, they must be watched for Hashem.
L'Hotzium MeiEretz Mitzrayim, to take your life out of the land of Mitzrayim. Mitzrayim is from Meitzar which means tight and distressed. Living a life chasing the pleasures of Olam HaZeh causes constant pressure. By spending our lives for Hashem, we will not be strangled in this world. We will open up vistas for ourselves in this world and the next.
http://www.revach.net/parshas-hashavua/numbers-letters/Parshas-Bo-Chida-A-Leil-Shimurim-That-Lasts-A-Lifetime/4903
15 Jan 2018
Peaceful hate crimes
An opinion piece by Medea Benjamin, co-founder of Codepink, had to be amended to remove the term “peaceful” from the reference to the human rights activism of Ahed Tamimi, who is facing Israeli charges of assaulting a soldier.
How was the word "peaceful" in the article in the first place?
'I felt really scared:' Toronto girl says man tried to cut off her hijab as she walked to school
Police are now characterizing the attack as a hate crime
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/police-school-hijab-1.4484501
Reported hijab attack on 11-year-old girl 'did not happen,'
Toronto police say Police previously said they were treating case as a possible hate crime
CBC News is not naming the 11-year-old because she is a minor.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/scarborough-hijab-attack-1.4487716
In the first article, she is named.
How was the word "peaceful" in the article in the first place?
'I felt really scared:' Toronto girl says man tried to cut off her hijab as she walked to school
Police are now characterizing the attack as a hate crime
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/police-school-hijab-1.4484501
Reported hijab attack on 11-year-old girl 'did not happen,'
Toronto police say Police previously said they were treating case as a possible hate crime
CBC News is not naming the 11-year-old because she is a minor.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/scarborough-hijab-attack-1.4487716
In the first article, she is named.
14 Jan 2018
From his bed
Netanyahu trip highlights India’s tiny Jewish community
"Vayakam Paroh Laila," at midnight of Yetzias Mitzrayim. Paroh got up to the screams across the entire nation (Bo 12:30). Rashi on these words says one word, "MiMitaso; fom his bed." What big Chiddush is Rashi telling us here?
The Kotzker Rebbe says (Emes MiKotzk Titzmach 576) that the Maskilim of his day were not really apikursim. In a time of need you find them hiding somewhere with a Tehilim in their hand. They are big talkers, but they really believe, although they don't admit it.
If you want to see a real Apikores, look at Paroh. Hashem wreaked havoc and destruction on Mitzrayim through nine incredible Makos. Moshe warned Paroh of each one and every word came true. Now Moshe told Paroh that the Bechorim will die at midnight.
A normal person would not go to sleep. Certainly, not the King, especially since he himself was a Bechor. He would nervously wait up until midnight to see what happens. Not Paroh. He got into his pajamas and went to sleep as if it was an ordinary night. Says the Kotzker Rebbe, "He was an authentic blue blooded apikores.".
It cost him dearly, as over 3000 years later all the kids still sing about Paroh in his pajamas in middle of the night!
http://www.revach.net/parshas-hashavua/rashi/Parshas-Bo-Kotzker-Rebbe-The-Unbelievable-Chutzpah-Of-A-Pajama-Clad-Apikores/4317
"תלמידי הישיבות ישתתפו בהלוויית הרב יהושע מאמאן זצ"ל"
"Vayakam Paroh Laila," at midnight of Yetzias Mitzrayim. Paroh got up to the screams across the entire nation (Bo 12:30). Rashi on these words says one word, "MiMitaso; fom his bed." What big Chiddush is Rashi telling us here?
The Kotzker Rebbe says (Emes MiKotzk Titzmach 576) that the Maskilim of his day were not really apikursim. In a time of need you find them hiding somewhere with a Tehilim in their hand. They are big talkers, but they really believe, although they don't admit it.
If you want to see a real Apikores, look at Paroh. Hashem wreaked havoc and destruction on Mitzrayim through nine incredible Makos. Moshe warned Paroh of each one and every word came true. Now Moshe told Paroh that the Bechorim will die at midnight.
A normal person would not go to sleep. Certainly, not the King, especially since he himself was a Bechor. He would nervously wait up until midnight to see what happens. Not Paroh. He got into his pajamas and went to sleep as if it was an ordinary night. Says the Kotzker Rebbe, "He was an authentic blue blooded apikores.".
It cost him dearly, as over 3000 years later all the kids still sing about Paroh in his pajamas in middle of the night!
http://www.revach.net/parshas-hashavua/rashi/Parshas-Bo-Kotzker-Rebbe-The-Unbelievable-Chutzpah-Of-A-Pajama-Clad-Apikores/4317
"תלמידי הישיבות ישתתפו בהלוויית הרב יהושע מאמאן זצ"ל"
13 Jan 2018
The suspected crux
After reading article upon article describing Rabbi Raziel Shevach, HY'd, I was curious to see if the mainstream media had reported aboout his death. Straightaway, I used the words. "Israeli Settler" and "New York Times" to google him and came up with the first item on the list, an article titled An Israeli Settler, a Dead Palestinian and the Crux of the Conflict.
Isabel Kershner describes the victim.
The Palestinian man, Mahmoud Zaal, 48, was from Qusra in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, and his widow has since added a sobriquet to his name: “Habib al-Ard,” Arabic for lover of the land.
I refined my google search to articles within the past week and found an article titled Israel Clamps Down on West Bank After Israeli Man Killed. An Israeli man being riddled with 22 bullets doesn't generate headlines about the crux of the conflict.
The article describes the Israeli man as an "Israeli settler" as well as "35-year-old Raziel Shevah." It also reports that he "was killed in a drive-by shooting by suspected Palestinian gunmen."
Going back to the first article, I noticed that Ms. Kershner referred to a previous incident in the area in which "a deadly arson attack by Jewish extremists in the Palestinian village of Duma, visible from Mr. Zaal’s land, killed a Palestinian toddler and his parents." The word "suspected" is missing, although I don't believe Jewish extremists were convicted, to date.
The L.A.Times has an article about a suspect being arrested in the killing of Blaze Bernstein.
Perhaps we can all heed the words of Blaze's mother.
“Nothing will bring back my son, so we ask the world to please honor Blaze’s memory by doing an act of kindness today. Don’t wait, do it now. Celebrate the goodness that still exists in this world in spite of these acts of senseless evil. People are good and Blaze knew that,” she said. “Honor yourselves and him.”
http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-blaze-bernstein-arrest-20180112-story.html
Isabel Kershner describes the victim.
The Palestinian man, Mahmoud Zaal, 48, was from Qusra in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, and his widow has since added a sobriquet to his name: “Habib al-Ard,” Arabic for lover of the land.
I refined my google search to articles within the past week and found an article titled Israel Clamps Down on West Bank After Israeli Man Killed. An Israeli man being riddled with 22 bullets doesn't generate headlines about the crux of the conflict.
The article describes the Israeli man as an "Israeli settler" as well as "35-year-old Raziel Shevah." It also reports that he "was killed in a drive-by shooting by suspected Palestinian gunmen."
Going back to the first article, I noticed that Ms. Kershner referred to a previous incident in the area in which "a deadly arson attack by Jewish extremists in the Palestinian village of Duma, visible from Mr. Zaal’s land, killed a Palestinian toddler and his parents." The word "suspected" is missing, although I don't believe Jewish extremists were convicted, to date.
The L.A.Times has an article about a suspect being arrested in the killing of Blaze Bernstein.
Perhaps we can all heed the words of Blaze's mother.
“Nothing will bring back my son, so we ask the world to please honor Blaze’s memory by doing an act of kindness today. Don’t wait, do it now. Celebrate the goodness that still exists in this world in spite of these acts of senseless evil. People are good and Blaze knew that,” she said. “Honor yourselves and him.”
http://www.latimes.com/local/lanow/la-me-blaze-bernstein-arrest-20180112-story.html
12 Jan 2018
Stuck in the mud
The Message of the Mud
How to treat strangers in need: Israeli version, Palestinian version
Terrorists Killed ‘The Angel Who Touched Me Forever’
Six Minutes With Rabbi Goldberger! Listen to Rabbi Menachem Goldberger on Parsha VaEira
A rich businessman came to the Chasam Sofer crying that while he was once one of the most successful traders in the city, a series of bad dealings has wiped him out. He requested advice and a Bracha from the Tzaddik. The Chasam Sofer said to him that he heard about his terrible plight, but he also heard that he has a brother who lives in poverty and that he doesn't help his brother. "Please forgive me," said the man, "but right now I am not in any position to help. If Hashem helps me get back on my feet, I promise I will help my brother."
The Chasam Sofer said to him, "Hashem says to Moshe (VaEirah 6:5), 'V'Gam Ani Shamati Es Naakas Bnei Yisrael; I have also heard the groaning of the B'nei Yisrael.' Who else heard the cries of Bnei Yisrael that Hashem says He has 'also' heard? The answer must be, that despite the terrible ordeal that each Yid in Mitzrayim was going through, still he managed to feel the pain of his fellow Yid and tried to alleviate his pain in any way."
Hashem said," B'zchus each person hearing the cries of his friend, I too will listen to each one's own tears and I will redeem them."
"Despite your difficult predicament," said the Chasam Sofer, "go help your brother right now in any way you can, and bzchus this, Hashem will rescue you from your troubles."
http://revach.net/article.php?id=4298
פרשת וארא • הגאון רבי דוד לאו עם וורט על הפרשה
How to treat strangers in need: Israeli version, Palestinian version
Terrorists Killed ‘The Angel Who Touched Me Forever’
Six Minutes With Rabbi Goldberger! Listen to Rabbi Menachem Goldberger on Parsha VaEira
A rich businessman came to the Chasam Sofer crying that while he was once one of the most successful traders in the city, a series of bad dealings has wiped him out. He requested advice and a Bracha from the Tzaddik. The Chasam Sofer said to him that he heard about his terrible plight, but he also heard that he has a brother who lives in poverty and that he doesn't help his brother. "Please forgive me," said the man, "but right now I am not in any position to help. If Hashem helps me get back on my feet, I promise I will help my brother."
The Chasam Sofer said to him, "Hashem says to Moshe (VaEirah 6:5), 'V'Gam Ani Shamati Es Naakas Bnei Yisrael; I have also heard the groaning of the B'nei Yisrael.' Who else heard the cries of Bnei Yisrael that Hashem says He has 'also' heard? The answer must be, that despite the terrible ordeal that each Yid in Mitzrayim was going through, still he managed to feel the pain of his fellow Yid and tried to alleviate his pain in any way."
Hashem said," B'zchus each person hearing the cries of his friend, I too will listen to each one's own tears and I will redeem them."
"Despite your difficult predicament," said the Chasam Sofer, "go help your brother right now in any way you can, and bzchus this, Hashem will rescue you from your troubles."
http://revach.net/article.php?id=4298
פרשת וארא • הגאון רבי דוד לאו עם וורט על הפרשה
11 Jan 2018
Brave acts
Someone Tore Down the Mezuzah of UCLA’s Jewish Student President. Read Her Powerful Response.
"כשהנרצח הי"ד רקד עם ילדיו: "מחכים למשיח - Kikar has an article about Rabbi Raziel Shevach Hy'd. and I have posted the video below in which he sings with his children, "We want Mashiach."
'I heard 'they shot me,' I recognized Raziel's voice'
Charge Your Spirit
Parshas Va'eira - The Makos Are All Mida K'Neged Mida
"כשהנרצח הי"ד רקד עם ילדיו: "מחכים למשיח - Kikar has an article about Rabbi Raziel Shevach Hy'd. and I have posted the video below in which he sings with his children, "We want Mashiach."
'I heard 'they shot me,' I recognized Raziel's voice'
Charge Your Spirit
Parshas Va'eira - The Makos Are All Mida K'Neged Mida
10 Jan 2018
9 Jan 2018
8 Jan 2018
Of equal significance
Sanzer Chossid in Dream: Don’t Talk During Davening
Watch and/or Listen to TAG Technology Awareness Community-Wide Asifa
"Hu Aharon Umoshe" (6:26); "Hu Moshe ViAharon" (6:27) Rashi points out, that there are places where the Torah places Aharon before Moshe and there are places where it places Moshe before Aharon. This is to teach us that they are of equal significance (Shkulim Haym). The obvious question is, how can we say that Aharon was equal to Moshe? Doesn't the Torah say that there never was or will be a Navi as great as Moshe?
The Maskil L'David answers, at this point they were of equal significance. It was only after Mattan Torah where Moshe was alone for 40 days and nights with the Shechina that he elevated himself above Aharon.
R' Moshe Feinstein offers a different answer. Of course Moshe was greater than Aharon even at this point. They were of equal significance in the aspect that each one of them fulfilled his Tafkid (potential) in this world. Hashem does not look how great one is, rather if he was able to "be all that he could be". If one reaches that level, he achieved the highest level. Aharon reached that level; therefore in this sense he was as great as Moshe who also reached the level of fulfilling his total potential. This is a comforting thought for all of Klal Yisroel. We too have the potential to be as great as Moshe in this sense.
http://www.revach.net/parshas-hashavua/quick-vort/Parshas-Vaeira-Rav-Moshe-Feinstein-Moshe-Aharon-and-You-Can-All-Be-Equal/1594
Watch and/or Listen to TAG Technology Awareness Community-Wide Asifa
"Hu Aharon Umoshe" (6:26); "Hu Moshe ViAharon" (6:27) Rashi points out, that there are places where the Torah places Aharon before Moshe and there are places where it places Moshe before Aharon. This is to teach us that they are of equal significance (Shkulim Haym). The obvious question is, how can we say that Aharon was equal to Moshe? Doesn't the Torah say that there never was or will be a Navi as great as Moshe?
The Maskil L'David answers, at this point they were of equal significance. It was only after Mattan Torah where Moshe was alone for 40 days and nights with the Shechina that he elevated himself above Aharon.
R' Moshe Feinstein offers a different answer. Of course Moshe was greater than Aharon even at this point. They were of equal significance in the aspect that each one of them fulfilled his Tafkid (potential) in this world. Hashem does not look how great one is, rather if he was able to "be all that he could be". If one reaches that level, he achieved the highest level. Aharon reached that level; therefore in this sense he was as great as Moshe who also reached the level of fulfilling his total potential. This is a comforting thought for all of Klal Yisroel. We too have the potential to be as great as Moshe in this sense.
http://www.revach.net/parshas-hashavua/quick-vort/Parshas-Vaeira-Rav-Moshe-Feinstein-Moshe-Aharon-and-You-Can-All-Be-Equal/1594
7 Jan 2018
6 Jan 2018
5 Jan 2018
4 Jan 2018
Achdus and Redemption
Why are we waiting for Redemption?
Keep Achdus Alive
Israel Prepares For Winter Storm
Cold Turns Niagara Falls Into Icy Winter Wonderland
The Independent: Everything Wrong with Op-Ed on Tamimi
Singapore Bans Propaganda Film Starring ‘Shirley Temper’
?הסגולה היומית: איך הקב"ה ימלא את כל משאלותינו לטובה
Parsha Shemot - Redemption with Feeling - Rabbi Daniel Korobkin
Keep Achdus Alive
Israel Prepares For Winter Storm
Cold Turns Niagara Falls Into Icy Winter Wonderland
The Independent: Everything Wrong with Op-Ed on Tamimi
Singapore Bans Propaganda Film Starring ‘Shirley Temper’
?הסגולה היומית: איך הקב"ה ימלא את כל משאלותינו לטובה
Parsha Shemot - Redemption with Feeling - Rabbi Daniel Korobkin
3 Jan 2018
An acronym
"And these are the names of the Children of Israel" (Shmos 1:1). In conjunction with the public reading of the parsha, our Chachomim require that every individual learn it on his own and be familiar with its basic pshat. To achieve this level of mastery, they instituted a three‑tiered review of the parsha: The text itself must be read twice, followed by Onkelos. Shnayim Mikrah Ve'echod Targum, "twice the text and once the translation of Onkelos", is the name of this mitzvah. A G‑d fearing man should study Rashi's commentary in addition to Targum.
The Levush writes that it is hinted at (remez) in the first pasuk of this week's Parsha. The Hebrew letters of the pasuk "V'eila Shemos Bnei Yisroel" are an acronym for: V'chayav Adam Likros Haparsha Shnayim Mikra Ve'echod Targum Vze Chayavim Kol Bnei Yisroel".
http://revach.net/parshas-hashavua/quick-vort/Parshas-Shemos-Shnayim-Mikra-is-Hidden-in-the-Words/1555
http://revach.net/parshas-hashavua/quick-vort/Parshas-Shemos-Shnayim-Mikra-is-Hidden-in-the-Words/1555
2 Jan 2018
More proof
ISRAEL SLAMS GERMAN FOREIGN MINISTER FOR COMPARING JEWISH STATE TO APARTHEID
Archeologists uncover more proof of Jewish rule in Jerusalem during First Temple era
Alan Dershowitz Debates BDS with Anti-Israel Professor Cornel West
Executive From Comey’s Former Hedge Fund And Family Killed In Costa Rica Plane Crash
Archeologists uncover more proof of Jewish rule in Jerusalem during First Temple era
Alan Dershowitz Debates BDS with Anti-Israel Professor Cornel West
Executive From Comey’s Former Hedge Fund And Family Killed In Costa Rica Plane Crash
United
A Celebrity Rabbi Has Taken Out A Newspaper Ad To Call Lorde A "Bigot" For Cancelling A Concert In Israel
Jewish Music Stars Gather For Rubashkin Unity Event
The Gateway Pundit has published an article titled Wikileaks Drops Late Night Proof The NY Times Colluded With Hillary Clinton While She Was Secretary of State.
Teen’s pals in shock as grim details emerge about Costa Rica plane crash
Jewish Music Stars Gather For Rubashkin Unity Event
The Gateway Pundit has published an article titled Wikileaks Drops Late Night Proof The NY Times Colluded With Hillary Clinton While She Was Secretary of State.
Teen’s pals in shock as grim details emerge about Costa Rica plane crash
1 Jan 2018
Resolutions
Why Resolutions Fail
No Anger, No Grudge
הידרדרות במצבו של דניאל בן אליזה אזן
“Midah K’Neged Midah” : Rav Galai On Marrying Off Children
"Vayei'anchu Bnei Yisrael Min HaAvodah Vayizaku; Bnei Yisrael sighed from the work and they cried." (Shemos 2:23). The Kli Yakar asks, "Why does the pasuk separate the sighing and crying instead of putting them together?"
He answers that there were two distinct reactions to the Koshi HaShibud. The first group were the good people. When they could no longer shoulder the pain, they cried to Hashem to relieve them. The second group cried but not to Hashem. They lamented their plight and complained against Hashem. "These two groups," says the Kli Yakar, "needed to be mentioned separately and not in the same breath."
History has shown this time and time again. Bnei Yisrael has faced many periods of oppression. Some people scream to Hashem, while some blame Hashem and walk away altogether. The Kli Yakar adds that pasuk ends, "Vataal Shavasam El HaElokim; The cries were heard by Hashem." But whose cries were heeded? "Min HaAvodah," only the group who cried to Hashem from the Avodah, and not the ones who rebelled because of it.
http://www.revach.net/parshas-hashavua/quick-vort/Parshas-Shemos-Kli-Yakar-Two-Reactions-To-The-Oppression-In-Mitzrayim/4878
No Anger, No Grudge
הידרדרות במצבו של דניאל בן אליזה אזן
“Midah K’Neged Midah” : Rav Galai On Marrying Off Children
"Vayei'anchu Bnei Yisrael Min HaAvodah Vayizaku; Bnei Yisrael sighed from the work and they cried." (Shemos 2:23). The Kli Yakar asks, "Why does the pasuk separate the sighing and crying instead of putting them together?"
He answers that there were two distinct reactions to the Koshi HaShibud. The first group were the good people. When they could no longer shoulder the pain, they cried to Hashem to relieve them. The second group cried but not to Hashem. They lamented their plight and complained against Hashem. "These two groups," says the Kli Yakar, "needed to be mentioned separately and not in the same breath."
History has shown this time and time again. Bnei Yisrael has faced many periods of oppression. Some people scream to Hashem, while some blame Hashem and walk away altogether. The Kli Yakar adds that pasuk ends, "Vataal Shavasam El HaElokim; The cries were heard by Hashem." But whose cries were heeded? "Min HaAvodah," only the group who cried to Hashem from the Avodah, and not the ones who rebelled because of it.
http://www.revach.net/parshas-hashavua/quick-vort/Parshas-Shemos-Kli-Yakar-Two-Reactions-To-The-Oppression-In-Mitzrayim/4878
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