" RAnnrY()SEF GAVJ\lEL B!\CllHOFER

A. Neglected Chessed d Confo.-ting the . ,. Berea11ed liVho Are Not Aveilim DR. MEIR WrnER

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THE JEWISH OBSERVER (ISSN) 0021-6615 is published monthly except July and August by the Agudath Israel 0 of America, 84 William Street, New York, N.Y. 10038. Second class postage paid in New York, N.Y. Subscription $24.00 per year; two years, $44.00; three years, $60.00. Qutside of fhe Untted States (US funds drawn on a US bank only) 14 $12.00 surcharge per year. Single copy $3.50; foreign $4.50. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Jewish Observer, 84 William Street, N.Y., N.Y. 10038. TRABBI NISSON WOLPIN, eorroR A Layman's Guide to a Din Torah

EDITORIAL BOARD Yoseph M. Broun(eld DA. ERNST L. BODENHEIMER Chalrman 14

RABBI JOSEPH ELIAS Numbers Speak Louder Than Words JOSEPH FRIEDENSON Chonon Gordon and Richard M. Horowitz RABBI NOSSON SCHERMAN 17 MANAGEMENT BOARD AVI FISHOF Der Aufstieg: Dr. Nathan Birnbaum .,..:n,Ascent and Agudah NAFTOLI HIRSCH Rabbi Yose( Gavriel Bechho(er ISAAC KIRZNEA RABBI SHLOMO LESIN 2S NACHUM STEIN A Neglected Chessed: Comforting the Bereaved Who are Not Aveilim RABBI YOSEF C. GOLDING Meir Wik/er Busl11ess Manager 19 Published by Agudath Israel of America Putting the "Music" into Jewish Music RABBI MOSHE SHERER David N. Golding PRESlDENT 35' U.S. TRADE DISTRIBUTOR ISRAEU DISTRIBUTOR First Fruits, Eliyahu Mayer Feldheim Publishers Nechemia Rosenberg 200 Airport Executive Park Kiryat Telshe Stone. 108A D.N. Harei Yehucla. ISRAEL Spr'ing Valley. N.Y. 10977 V'YESH 0MRIM ... AND THERE ARE THOSE THAT SAY EUROPEAN REPRESENTATIVE AUSTRAUAN DISTRIBUTOR M. T. Bi be Iman Gold's Book & Gill Co. J 9 Lehavdil, Aviva Minsk Grosvenor Works 36 William Street Moull! Pleasant Htll Balaclava 3183. Vic .. 4 I Toras Emes: A True Siyum? London ES 9NE. ENGLAND AUSTRALIA 41 THE JEWISH OBSERVER does not SECOND LOOKS assume responsibility for the Kashrus A New Jewish School Network in Israel of any product, publication, or service Adam Winston advertised in its pages ©Copyright 1997 4S BOOKS IN REVIEW

MAY 1997 reviewed by Robbi Nesanel Kasnett VOLUME XXX/NO. 4 LANDSCAPE OF THE SPIRIT: THE CITIES OF ERETZ YtSROEL IN jEWISH THOUGHT THE FUTURE FESTIVAL: LAws, TRADITIONS AND CUSTOMS OF THE THREE WEEKS so LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

75 years of advocacy, representation, and service. A scrapbook of special moments, events .. and milestones

The Jewish Observer, May 1997 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 At Empire, we don't just sharpen our knives. We sharpen our n1inds.

imud HaTorah is an essential part of our daily routine. The Empire Bais Medrash resounds with a ilill"\ ?1p nearly around the clock, Lwhether it's shiurim in Daf Yomi, a masechta b'iyun, Shmiras Haloshon or a review in Hilchos Shechita. What does all of this have to do with kosher chicken? Everything.

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A Layman's Guide to a Din Torah

WHY NOT LITIGATE? sidewalk instead of on the street, there­ by causing extensive damage to the thousand-dollar fur coat she was car­ • he following lines will zel Tov! You are finally going rying. You will be hearing from her o move into your new home lawyer. No problem, you assume. Like Thopefully allay the fear M uilt exactly to your specifi­ any good American, you will let the of the unknown and cations. You contract with Boneh-Yofeh courts decide. Builders, a reputable Jewish firm. When familiarize potential you are about to move in, you notice *** litigants with the beis din that the wiring is not as extensive as you specified. The contractor tells you it is hen you remember that there is system. These guidelines and will not incur the extra expense to a problem. You've read about it in pertain to the courts in rewire. No problem, you assume. Like Tpast issues of The Jewish Observ­ any good American, you will let the er. You've heard it expounded at public the United States as well courts decide. addresses. Very likely, you've come as abroad. The din Torah across it when learning Chumash or our daughter's wedding last night Gemora. Nonetheless, it is worth repeat­ legal process is actually was an exhausting effort, but - ing: The Torah explicitly prohibits the quite simple and is Ywho can deny it? - well worth it. primary usage of secular courts to You now take her wedding dress to the adjudicate disputesbetween Jews.' accessible to any local Shomer Shabbos dry cleaner. He So what can you do? The Torah pre­ knowledgeable person. tells you he really doesn't like to do these scribes its own court system - beis din. dresses, but since you are a good cus­ Each beis din consists of several judges tomer, he will give it his best. Sure qualified by their Torah expertise. The enough, when you pick it up, some number of sitting judges in batei din After all, if the legal• system with which ornamentation is ruined. You immedi­ vary. We will concern ourselves here with I am somewhat familiar is too compli­ ately blame him for ruining your expen­ a three judge panel, the number nor­ cated for me, why do I want to start with sive investment which you planned to mally required for civil cases. a totally unfamiliar system? I can just hire use for your other five daughters. He says a lawyer who will professionally litigate. he warned you that it was your risk. No ALLAYING FEARS OF THE UNFAMILIAR The following lines will hopefully problem, you assume. Like any good allay the fear of the unknown and famil­ American, you will let the courts decide. est one think that a beis din is just iarize potential litigants with the system. an alternative legal system, a pasuk These guidelines pertain to the courts our ten-year-old crashes his bicy­ Lin Tehillim informs us that in the United States as well as abroad. cle into the non-observant lady Hashem Himself participates in every Originating a case or consenting to Ywho lives at the other end of the beis din decision'. The problem arises dispute in a secular court is prohibited. block. Before you can placate her that from the fact that the intricate structure In case of an irreconcilable dispute, the it was only an accident, she berates you of the American legal system combined Torah ideally prefers a compromise to for allowing your child to ride on the with ignorance about the beis din dis­ a strict ruling. Nevertheless, if a Jew courages people from going to a beis din. vociferously believes that he (or she - Yoseph M. Braunfeld learned in the Kolle! of Yeshi­ women are equally recognized as plain­ va Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch and currently is I "And these are the laws that you should put before a practicing accountant . The author acknowledges them- before the Jewish courts, and not before the tiffs or defendants) was wronged, he may valuable insights provided by the Dayanim Chaim gentile courts" (Gittin 88b). recover his loss without undue con­ Kohn (Monsey and Manhattan) and Yaakov 2 Tehillim 82,l. See Malbim and other commenta­ straint. The din Torah legal process is Forscheimer (Lakewood), and Rabbi Moshe Heine­ tors. man (Baltimore). actually quite simple and is accessible to

------10 The )ew;sh Observer, May 1997 any knowledgeable person. If the disputants do not come togeth­ >What constitutes a beis din? er to the beis din, the plaintiff (tove'a) Hashem directed Moshe Rabbeinu to • will ask the beis din to send a summons implement a "semicha" system begin­ atei din realize that (hazmana) to the defendant ( nitva). The ning with his disciple Yehoshua, where­ there are widely­ defendant has the option of requesting by those demonstrating their proficiency B a different beis din. If, however, he fails would be allowed to judge. After this accepted customs which to respond, the beis din may send two continuous chain was broken subse­ more summonses. If there is still no quent to the destruction of the Second are assumed by all the response, the beis din will either issue a Beis Hamikdash, our leaders decreed people of a community. seruv, which is a public announcement that anyone properly versed in halacha stating that the defendant is not would have limited authority to judge. These customs would responding to beis din's order to appear, Throughout our history, cities with a sig­ retain the status of or will allow the plaintiff to pursue his nificant Jewish population have orga­ case in a secular court. The secular court nized standing batei din. Alternatively, implicit agreements. would then act as beis din's shaliach. a valid beis din may be set up by each When the din Torah does get under of the disputants selecting a judge, and way, each party, possibly assisted by a they in turn selecting a third one. • to'ein, presents his case to the beis din. >Where do I find I find a beis din? ly disallow the use of a to'ein if they sus­ Women may not generally serve as wit­ Many large communities and orga­ pect that he is just trying to twist the case nesses, but they may present expertise nizations have a standing beis din avail­ in his client's favor rather than limit which the judges will consider. The beis able to their constituency. Anyone himself to presenting relevant argu­ din then deliberates privately and issues wanting to initiate a proceeding should ments. its judgment. contact his rabbi or a major organiza­ >-Don't we have a rule of "Dina The beis din itself may not be in a tion. demalchusa dina - that we are oblig­ position to enforce the p'sak, but may >What kind of dispute can I bring as ed to comply with the law of the land"? direct the plaintiff to enforce it through a din Torah? Dina demalchusa dina means that we the secular courts based on the arbi­ Since the exile, our judges are not are required to adhere to all govern­ tration agreement. It can then be empowered to judge capital or corpo­ mental laws not antithetical to halacha. enforced via the normal enforcement real crimes. All civil altercations bet:vveen In a conflict between Totah law and sec­ channels. two parties, however, are eligible. Most ular law, however, we observe only Torah >Who pays the ancillary costs? cases involve financial disputes. Batei din law. Likewise, it does not mean that per­ The normal practice is to split the beis may also be called upon to mediate sonal disagreements may be adjudicat­ din's fee. Each party is responsible for character attacks, and the like. The pur­ ed in a civil court. The contrary is true. his own expenses and lost time. It is pose of the din Torah is to evaluate how That is not to say that the dayanim will therefore advisable to take that into con­ the Torah sizes up the particular not take accepted business practice sideration. quandary for disputants who want to into consideration. Batei din realize that >-«I want to swear!" maintain their lives in its spirit. there are widely-accepted customs The Gemora discusses cases where >Must I represent myself, or may I del­ which are assumed by all the people of swearing is required or optional. Nowa­ egate a lawyer? a community. These customs would days, beis din will not allow disputants The Torah prefers that the parties retain the status of implicit agree­ to swear. represent themselves. Nevertheless, ments. >"Can I bring additional evidence when a party may not feel confident that >How can I be sure that the govern­ later?" he will present his position properly or ment authorities will recognize the beis The general rule is that a disputant when he fears that the case may be sig­ din's judgment? may reconvene the beis din to clarify or nificantly complex, some batei din Beis din has the parties sign a "sh tar add to a prior claim. He may not change allow him to bring along an expert, berurin- consent to arbitration.') Sec­ or contradict a prior statement. preferably someone versed in halacha, ular courts will normally treat the p'sak >Will the judgment be a guilty/inno­ as an advisor ( to'ein). Some batei din of beis din as a legal arbitration as long cent type of ruling? actually prefer that a halachically-versed as certain guidelines are not violated. At the case's outset, the beis din will to'ein be engaged so as to reduce irrel­ The beis din will ensure that maintain­ attempt to convince the parties to evant arguments. On the other hand, ing these guidelines does not in itself accept a compromise settlement. If the many batei din greatly discourage the use violate their independent judicial case turns out to be one not explicit­ of a to'ein, especially one who does so authority. ly described in the Shulchan Aruch, the as a professional; they may even total- >-How is a din Torah initiated? judges will then work out a compromise

---··------·----···--···----·---·----·------· --- The Jewish Observer, May 1997 11 into consideration. Of course, this can By the same token, even if one knows • only be done if the parties agreed orig­ that a civil verdict will correspond to a any large inally to grant the beis din this latitude. beis din's in a particular case, one must If the beis din is requested to judge on go to the beis din and not the civil court. Mcommunities and a strict din basis, then the choice of rul­ >What if my adversary is a non­ ings would be more limited. observant Jew or a gentile? organizations have a >Can a judgment be appealed? The rules are the same. If the non­ Normally not. The halacha recognizes observant Jew forces you to go to a sec­ standing beis din the finality of a p'sak beis din. By sub­ ular court, you may go, just as if you are available to their mitting a dispute to a beis din, the par­ forced by an otherwise observant Jew. ties accept that particular beis din's ulti­ As long as you take an initiative to sub­ constituency. Anyone mate authority. In line with this logic, mit your case to a beis din, you do not unlike secular courts, the judges will like­ transgress the prohibition. If you desire, wanting to initiate a ly not express their reasoning, although you may also attempt to convince the the parties do have the right to request gentile to attend a beis din, but there is proceeding should the reasons for the decision. no such requirement, and you may set­ contact his rabbi or a >If I receive a summons from a Jew­ tle the dispute in civil court. ish plaintiff to appear in a civil court, >I have an irreconcilable dispute major organization. what should I do? which both of us want to pursue For practical reasons, respond to the halachically, but we do not want to go summons. You should, however, have a to all the expense and trouble of a beis • beis din send the plaintiff a hazmana din. Do we have an enforceable alter­ amongst themselves based on the din, protesting his submitting the case to civil native? but allowing for subjective discretion, court. If the plaintiff persists, you may The standard civil beis din pre­ with extenuating circumstances taken defend yourself in the civil court. The scribed by the Torah consists of three plaintiff would be committing the judges. Nevertheless, altercating parties halachic transgression. may agree to present their case to a sin­ >What if I summon a defendant to beis gle poseik. If they agree to the afore­ din and he insists on going to civil mentioned shtar berurin, halacha will court? accept the finality of the poseik's judg­ The halacha would allow you to go. ment. Likewise, the secular court system This is tantamount to the case where the will look upon the decision as a mutu­ defendant ignores the summons. The ally binding arbitration. 1537 Soth Street, halacha recognizes the civil court as a Brooklyn, nv 11219 shaliach (agent) of beis din. hen Yisro joined up with the (718) 854-2911 >I (or my adversary) initiated a case Jewish nation, Moshe in civil court, but we want to do teshu­ W described the great deluge of va. Or even if our motives are not altru­ questions and cases being posed to him istic, we want to reinitiate the pro­ as the people's search for the teaching 3 xecutive ceeding in beis din. Can we? of Hashem • That is how we are to If the dispute has not concluded, then approach our conflicts. If we pursue our irector there is no question that it may be reini­ rights because we feel that we earned our ted for large Aish HaTorah tiated in beis din. If the secular court had property honestly, according to the ch to replace Executive reached a verdict, however, there is a laws - and spirit-of the Torah, then !rector moving to Jerusalem. major discussion amongst the respon­ we have nothing to fear from a din equires extensive fundraising sa whether it may be reinitiated in beis Torah. We should also remember that if din. As a matter of current practice, most we lose the din Torah, we should be even erience. Branch has success­ batei din will not accept such a case. more thankful, since we would other­ fundraising program with >I know for sure that the judge in the wise have retained property that is not road-based community support. civil court is a Torah-observant Jew. Can really ours. The Ultimate Judge guar­ utgoing, idealistic, organized I go to his court? antees that using the beis din will elicit key traits. Significant salary The Torah places the prohibition on the truth. There is no guarantee 1n ed on experience. any legal system not under Torah aus­ regard to a secular court. B resume to 905-764-1606. pices. The background of a particular judge in a secular system is irrelevant. 3 Shemos 18,15; see Rashi.

·------···---·------~··----·· ------·---- 12 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 T 0 RAH UM ES 0 RAH SCHOOL OF JEWISH EDUCATION

1. IVRIT B'IVRIT TEACHERS' SEMINAR 6. TEACHING GEMORAH {four week course) ($150per week) How to systematically present the Gemorah, develop thinking skills, and build language skills. Conversational Hebrew with emphasis on language, writing, and grammar used in the classroom. Instructor: Rabbi Moshe Perlstein, Principal Cheder lubavitch Hebrew Day School, Skokie, IL Instructor: Prof. Hanoch Dubitsky, Yeshiva University 2. HANDLING THE DIFFICULT CHILD 7. CLASSROOM MANAGEMENT Techniques to help the teacher diagnose the learning disabled Methods to structure the environment to produce learning. student's problems, when to refer him to the Resource room and how Instructor: Rabbi Nachum Kaplan, Dean, to work with him in the classroom. Yeshivas Rabbi Jacob Joseph.Staten Island Instructor: Dr. Joel Dickstein, Coordinator, 8. TEACHING NAVI P'Tach Program. Yeshiva University Gain an in-depth understanding of Navi and how to teach it 3. BACK TO BASICS Learn and rev'1ew the basic techniques needed Instructor: Rabbi Zev Katz, Principal Judaic Dept., to organize and conduct a class. Focus on Yeshiva of Greater Washington-Girls Div. lesson planning. 9. CLASSROOM SURVIVAL Instructor: Rabbi Shmarya Rennert, Rebbi, Various methods and approaches that work when faced with difficult Yeshiva Tifereth MoshetDov Revel Center. Educational Consultant discipline problems 4. PRINCIPALS'/AOMINISTRATORS' SEMINAR Instructor: Rabbi Shmarya Rennert, Rabbi, Hands-on workshop wlth teacher supervision; leadership Yeshiva Tifereth Moshe/Dov Revel Center styles; community, parent and board relationships. Educational Consultant Emphasis on sharlng. 10. TEACHING IS Instructor: Rabbi Nachum Kaplan, Dean, Yeshiva Rabbi Jacob Joseph, Staten Island Learn the key elements of instruction that make one a teacher. 5. MEANINGFUL COMMUNICATION Instructor: Rabbi Y1tzchok Markin, Headmaster, Practical techniques and methods of communication needed to Yeshiva ol Greater Washington relate to your students, their parents, and others that are involved in the chinuch process. 11. DIKDUK MADE SIMPLE Understanding Dikduk LeChumash in order to teach~ranslate/understand Instructor: Rabbi Noach OrJowak, SHLITA Psukim and Rash! more accurately. Focus on many aspects of verbs Menahel Ruchani of Yeshiva Ohr Boruch, author and lecturer including Binyanim, the conversive Vav, conjugation, tenses, etc. Classes wilt be held at: Prospect Park Yeshiva, 1601 Avenue R, Brooklyn, NY Instructor: Rabbi Yltzchok Charner, Principal Torah Day School of Greater Washington, Silver Spring, MD I II Ill 12. HELPING CHILDREN GROW July 7, 8, 9, 10 July14,15, 16, 17, July 21, 23, 24"' Practical techniques on how to make an impact on the religious growth of your students. 1. !VRIT B'IVRIT 1. IVRIT fflVRIT 1. !VRIT B'IVRIT Instructor: Rabbi Zev Katz, Principal Judaic Dept., TEACHERS' SEMINAR TEACHERS' SEMINAR TEACHERS" SEMINAR ~ Yeshiva of Greater Washington·Girls Div. ~ 2. HANDLING THE 8. TEACHING NAVJ 13.BUILDING SKILLS IN PRIMARY N DIFFICULT CHILD GRADES 13. BUILDING SKILLS IN PRIMARY GRADES ~ 9. CLASSROOM Exciting approaches to help the primary child in skill development. Will 3. BACK TO BASICS SURVIVAL 14. CLASSROOM PSYCHOLOGY cover writing, reading and Chumash. Applicable for grades pre· 1a through ~ 4. PRINCIPALS'/ 3rd. ADMINISTRATORS" SEMINAR lnstruclor: Mrs. Shana Kramer, Teacher YeshivaS.R. Hirsch, 0 ~ 5. MEANINGFUL New York, NY ii COMMUNICATION 10. TEACHING IS 15. DISCIPLINE 0 WITH D!GNrry 14. CLASSROOM PSYCHOLOGY ~ ~ Geared to provide you with an understanding of the psychological dynamics of various classroom behaviors and the techniques to deal with 3;50· 4;05 ;inin ;inir.i ilnll:l them. Instructor: Dr. Sh!omo Shuck, Associate Professor, 6. TEACHING ~ 11. DIKDUK 16. TEACHING THE Monmouth College; Consulting Psychologist, OheJ N GEMORAH MADE SIMPLE WHOLE CLASS 7. CLASSROOM 12. HELPING CHILDREN 17. ACTIVE TEACHING 15. DISCIPLINE WITH DIGNITY ~ MANAGEMENT ~ GROW Practical techniques to instill middos and create an atmosphere of respect and Derech Eretz in school and home. No sessions on July 22 Instructor: Rabbi Shlomo Mund, Rebbi, Montreal, Canada For more information about courses and fees, please contact: Rabbi Yilzchak Markin or Rabbi Shmarya Rennert, c/o Torah Umesorah Sumtner Seminar, 160 Broadway, NY 10038, (212) 227·1000 ext 106. 16. TEACHING THE WHOLE CLASS Methodologies for teaching all the students in r------, a heterogeneous class. Differential instruction : TORAH UMESORAH SUMMER SEMINAR, 160 BROADWAY, N.Y.C. 10038 : for the weaker and gifted student along with strategies for effective grouping. TUITION SCHEDULE Please register me for the following classes: Instructor: Rabbi Dov Leibenstein, (please circle) No. of Courses 1 2 3 '10 Educational Supervisor, for each Chicago, ll Tuition '160 "240 '320 add"I course 1 2 3 4 5 6 17. ACTIVE TEACHING Model lessons on various topics, 7 8 9 10 11 12 Registration Fee - $25 Please enclose 25% of tuition and full demonstrating teaching and thinking skills. Every model lesson will be followed by a group 13 14 15 16 17 registration tee to confirm your enrollment ' discussion analyzing the lesson. ' {balance due first day of course.) ' Additional registration will take place at the door. Instructor: Rabbi Sh!omo Mund, Rebbi ' Amount enclosed $-----~ Montreal, Canada :' Name: Address; Phone: l L------~ Chanan (Antony) Gordon Richard M. Horowitz

"Generational Chart." Professor Der­ showitz cites the chart to illustrate the NUMBERS demographic trends in America. Of concern, however, are Part II and Part III of Dershowitz's book, which forms SPEAK LOUDER the major part of his book, in which the Harvard Law School Professor deals with "Proposed Solutions" and "A THAN WORDS Workable Answer" respectively. Pro· fessor Dershowitz's proposed solutions and suggestions are, in most instances, antithetical to the findings that we e all know the old gleamed as a result of our research. adage, "a picture is The essence of Professor Dershowitz' s W worth a thousand argument and proposed solution is word." The "Generational summed up in his book as follows : Chart" (see left) is a classic case in point. The chart, "In every generation, Jews have which illustrates in clear redefined themselves to adapt to the and graphic terms how ever-changing world. This ability to many Jews will survive keep Judaism relevant, to give the past ~-·--- the onslaught of accul­ a vote but not a veto, has been a key turation and assimila­ ingredient in our long and mysteri­ tion in America over ous survival against all odds. In the the next three genera­ end, my proposals for a more open tions, is the central Judaism, adaptive to the new realities table in our research of Jewish first-class status, acceptance, article entitled "Will and marginalization of anti-Semi­ Your Grandchild tism, will not save the kind of Be Jewish ?'" The Ju·daism that is G-d centered, rule article has already bound, ritual driven, and clannish. been published That kind of Judaism will be saved by in whole or in those who believe and practice Hala­ part in numer­ kic (sic) Judaism. They are doing a ous publica­ fine job and need no help from me or tions1 ; how­ others who are not 1nembers of the ever, the club. The Judaism I am trying to recent publi­ defend and enhance is a Judaism of cation of ideas, of attitudes, of skepticism, of justice, of compassion, of argumen­ "' •Jir6!rfj1fiil!/f~~:~j;::::Chart" in "GenAlan era-M. tation, and inclusiveness. That kind erslomvit;,'s new book, The Vanishing of Judaism can survive, indeed thrive, American Jew, has now captured the in an open and welcoming world into attention of a much wider audience. which Jewish ideas can cast a beacon The only graph or chart in the of light. That kind of Judaism does Chanan (Antony) Gordon is a Sir Abe Bailey Schol­ ar (l 988), Fulbright Scholar (1989), and graduate entire 395 page book is, in fact, the not depend on numbers, or on reH­ of the Harvard Law School. Mr. Gordon is gious definitions of who is a Jew, or involved in numerous outreach projects in Los Ange­ 1 The article was the culn1ination of almost four on whether one's mother or father les including being the co-founder of "Partner in p;ars of research of data based primarily on the was a Jew. That kind of Judaism Torah" (Los Angeles) as well as the LA. Hachnasat National Jewish Population Study ( 1990) and col­ Orchim Committee. He currently works as an lated by the North American Jewish Data Bank. The depends on the power of Jewish Investment Executive at PaineWebber, Inc. authors worked in tandem with Dr. Ariela Keysar, ideas to educate, influence, and repair Richard M. Horowitz graduated with an M.B.A from Ph.D., Professor Barry Kosmin and Mr. Jeffrey the world. Every Jew who cares our Scheckner amongst others. Pepperdine University. Mr. Horowitz is the Presi­ future must join in building the dent of Management Brokers Insurance Agency, 2 Moment (October, 1996); Jewish Spectator (Fall, Leviathian Computers and Dial 800 LP. He is also 1996); Heritage (March 14, 1997); Jewish World foundation for this new Judaism ..." President of Aish Hatorah for North America. (March 26-April 3, 1997). (pp 334-335).

14 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 CHALLENGING THE DERSHOWITZ that mixed married households con­ SOLUTION • tained 770, 000 children under 18 years of age. According to the NJPS, only 28% ne of the central themes that of these children were being raised as permeates Dershowitz's book is Jews; 41% were being raised in anoth­ 0 the notion that by moving fur­ intermarriage are er religion; and 31 % were being raised ther away from what Dershowitz refers with no religion at all. Moreover, while to as ''Halakic Judaism;' and embracing being raised as 28% of children of intermarriage are "a more open Judaism:' the continua­ being raised as Jews, only 15% of the tion of American Jews would be assured. Jews, only 15% entire group ultimately marry Jews These proposals by Dershowitz are not of the entire group themselves. Thus, contrary to Der­ borne out by the data. In fact, in most showitz's hypothesis, it is clear that near­ instances we find the opposite to be true. ultimately marry Jews ly all of the children of intermarriage are It is now clearly apparent from the lost to the Jewish people. results of the National Jewish Popula­ themselves. Thus, Dershowitz's call to action to tion Survey 1990 ("NIPS 1990"), that the embrace a Judaism that would be more rate of intermarriage has risen dra­ contrary to Dershowitz's "open" and "adaptive" to ensure Jewish matically in the past thirty years, from hypothesis, it is clear continuity is not corroborated by the an average of 9% before 1965 to 52% in facts. One need go no further than the 1990. This fact has been recognized by that nearly all of the fact that the conversion rate amongst leading academicians from all the major Reform Jews exceeded 20% before the denominations. The NIPS 1990 showed children of adoption by the Reform denomination clearly that secular Jews have doubled of the contrary-to-halacha concept of their intermarriage rate, while Reform intermarriage are lost to patrilineal descent. Ironically, since this and Conservative Jews have tripled concept was adopted by the Reform theirs. Contrary to Dershowitz's asser­ the Jewish people. denomination, the conversion rates tions, the data indicates that the move dropped to approximately 10% . away from "Halakic Judaism" over the years shows a clear trend away from wants to marry a Jew• and is prepared to RATIONING OUR RESOURCES ensuring Jewish continuity: have a rabbi participate in the ceremo­ Secular Jews in the 18 to 39 year age ny, a rabbi should be willing to lend his inally, possibly the most powerful group have an intermarriage rate of or her Jewish participation to so impor­ byproducts of our research is the 72%, while those over age 39 have an tant an event:• (p 322). The NJPS found Flong-term effect of reaching out to intermarriage rate of 350/o. Younger Reform Jews now have an intermarriage rate of 53%, compared to a 16% rate for the older group. Among younger Con­ LS TYPE OF CAR OR SIMllAR I MAY 97 ... servative Jews, the intermarriage rate has 30 JUN 97 increased to 37%, compared to 10% for ~~ those Conservative Jews over the age of A FlAT PUNTO 3 DR ~4? 39. Only Orthodox Jews have reversed A' FlAT PUNTO 3 DR A/C __1?'5 !; this trend-their intermarriage has fall­ B _PEUGEOT 2051 OPEL C_ORSA 19_~ ~:i c MAZDA 121 P.S en from 10% among those over 39 to .-.... - .. -.-·------231J c·' PEUGEOT 3061MAZDA323 _2~_ ~g 3% of the 18-39 group today. -c:2 ------' POLO 1.6 P.S -~~-~ Ill '( Professor Dershowitz's specific com­ f.t ______MINIBUS FORD ,..,_,.., 10 SEATS_____ 630 ments about intermarriage are also not N KIA BESTA 8 SEATS 490 l~ supported by the plethora of statistically • USA&CANADA data that we evaluated. "Jews must D _ §UZIJ_KY SWll'f_ :2.~~ ~· Toll Free: 41 ~ 800·938-5000 E MAZDA 3231.6 P.S __:H5 ~~ adopt a different approach to the ------Tel in N : 12·629·6090 F __ ' NISSAN ALM§JlL __ ___:3_5Q_ =). http://www.eldan.co.il/ increasing reality of intermarriage;' he G '._FORD "ONDE.0 __1.8 4;\_~ i"" writes. "We must become more wel­ K ' G_MC V~NDU~A _111 SEATS 735 _x 'CHEVROLET CAVALIER c~ coming of the non-Jewish spouse. ------~9_~ XL '. MAZD_A 626 ______58_1 Refusal to permit intermarriage has i"' sx 'CHEVROLET LUMINA 658 failed as a deterrent mechanism. We •POWER STEERING & ELECTRIC WINDOWS must try another way. If a non-Jew

The Jewish Observer, May 1997 15 unaffiliated or less committed Jews, as the 98 they leave behind. Two young and helping them understand that, secular Jews who become affiliated to the II notwithstanding Dershowitz's thesis, Chasidic Orthodox/Yeshiva Orthodox only a move based on more of a com­ denomination will have ten times as f two young Reform mitment to "Halakic Judaism" could in many descendants as the 98 secular Jews Jews were to become fact ensure the true continuity of Amer­ they leave behind. I ican Jewry. Consider the following, Six young Conservative Jews who affiliated to the based on the illustration used in the Gen­ become affiliated to the Centrist Ortho­ erational Chart: dox will have as many Jewish descen­ Chassidic Orthodox or If two young Reform Jews were to dants as the 94 they leave behind. Four Yeshiva Orthodox, the become affiliated to the Chassidic young Reform Jews who become Cen­ Orthodox or Yeshiva Orthodox, the two trist Orthodox will have as many Jew­ two former Reform Jews former Reform Jews would have an aver­ ish descendants as the 96 they leave age of 52 descendants in 3 generations. behind and two young secular Jews who will have an average of On the other hand, the 98 young become affiliated to the Centrist Ortho­ 52 descendants in 3 Reform Jews they leave behind will have dox denomination will have more Jew­ a total of only 13 Jewish descendants. In ish descendants than the 98 they leave generations. On the other words, the average number of behind. descendants of the two young Reform In short, if Dershowitz is truly con­ other hand, the 98 Jews who became affiliated to the Chas­ cerned about Jewish continuity, it should young Reform Jews they sidic Orthodox or Yeshiva Orthodox will be evident that the only change that will be four times as many as the 98 young result in a statistically significant conse­ leave behind will have Jews who remain Reform. quence for American Jews is a horizon­ Similarly, two young Conservative tal shift along the denominational axiom a total of only l 3 Jews who become affiliated to the Chas­ from the secular, Reform or Conserva­ Jewish descendants. sidic Orthodox or Yeshiva Orthodox will tive Jews to the Centrist or Chassidic have twice as many Jewish descendants Orthodox/Yeshiva Orthodox camp. • II

A Harvest o Ma.jesry The commentary of Rabbi Moshe A!shich on Megil!as Ruth contains a wealth of spiritual Relive the most glorious encounter insight. And with A HARVEST OF MAJESTY, this nation's history: the revelation at Sinai. profound and thought-provoking commentary is available in a clear, easy-to-read English. !n this remarkable anthology, Rabbi Shlomo Rozner draws upon Chumash, Talmud, Midrash, Complete with Hebrew text and verse~by-verse translation, and classical commentaries to capture the wonder this volume is richly annotated and contains and excitement of those days when we all stood three illuminating, topical essays regarding the together at the foot of Mt. Sinai. dynasty of King David. A HARVEST OF MAJESTY will enhance your Yorn Tov as it sheds This year, relive that experience with A NATION new light on your understanding of TaNaCh. OF WITNESSES. of Roy Yom Tov in Haur.ch:ah A Commentary on the Book of Ruth by Rabbi Yisroel Nadoff by Yehoshua Bachrach YOM TOV IN HAlACHAH is a comprehensive, The author's unique sty!e of combining p'shat clearly-written text that covers a!I aspects of Yorn and drash to create an insightful, well-rounded commentary has Tov observance. In this practical guide you'll find entire chap­ turned this volume into a popular, contemporary classic. Now avail­ ters devoted to the melachos of Yorn Tov as well as discussions of able in a convenient, attractive pocket-sized edition, this is an ideal many modern-day concerns. YOM TOV IN HAlACHAH: Don't go text for Shavuos - or - for year-round study. through another YomTov without it!

16 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 Rabbi Yosef Gavriel Bechhofer

Der Aufstieg: Dr. Nathan Birnbaum 7"~1', Ascent and Agudah Nathan Birnbaum is not a ba'al teshuva. He is like Avraham Avinu in that he came to recognize his Creator on his own.

RA.BB! AVRAHAM EUYAHU KAPLAN ?":

e generally define a ba'a/ ieth anniversary of a remarkable move­ the struggle for cultural advancement. teshuva either as one who was ment he founded within the Agudah: Dr. Birnbaum broke with the Zionist W held captive by a yeitzer hara "HaOlim, The Ascenders." movement to seek an authentic Jewish and then overcame it, or as one who was modality that would transcend the nar­ ignorant of Judaism who then came to A LIFE OF STRUGGLE AND ASCENT row quest for a homeland. He thought appreciate its ideals and their relevance. he found it - in Eastern European Jew­ By these definitions, the most famous athan Birnbaum was born in ish culture. He became an ardent Yid­ baa/ teshuva of our century, Dr. Nathan 1864, to observant parents from dishist. From 1906 until 1911, he pub­ Birnbaum ?"YT, was never a baal teshu­ N Galicia and Hungary, in Vienna. lished Yiddish periodicals that va at all! Dr. Birnbaum never succumbed Although he distanced himself from promoted an autonomous Jewish cul­ to yetzarim. At every step along his way Orthodoxy, he did not do so to assim­ ture focusing on the Yiddish language. to emuna, he sought the truth of ilate, but to pursue Jewish national This second phase of his career Yahadus.' He shaped the ideology and renewal. In 1885, he founded a Jewish brought him into intimate contact with accomplishments-and experienced the nationalistic movement- a movement Eastern European Jewry. The vibrancy shortcomings and frustrations - of which he himself named - Zionism. By of both Polish Chassidus and Lithuan­ each of the various movements that vied 1897, he served as chief secretary of the ian Mussar made a profound impact for the soul of our nation. Like Avraham central Zionist office. upon him. An erlebenis (religious expe­ Avinu, by process of elimination - and Over time, he recognized the Zion­ rience) while at sea on a ship to Amer­ no small measure of Divine Providence ist movement as bereft of true Jewish ica pushed him along, and he came to -he came to realize the emesofTorah­ culture. He came to the realization that recognize the yad Hashem. Dr. Birnbaum true Judaism. the struggle for land could not supplant came to see the role of Am Yisroel in Cre­ This past Pesach marked his sixtieth ation as a religious destiny. By 1919, yahrzeit. This year also marks the eight­ I Related by Dr. J. Wolgemuth ':n, in ]eschurun, Nathan Birnbaum was a fervent Agud­ Rabbi Bechhofer is the Rosh Kolle! of Yeshivas Beis Berlin, Jyar-Sivan 5684. Quoted by Rabbi Tzvi ist, and the first general secretary of the HaMidrash LaTorah and the Noble Night Kolle! in Kaplan (Reh Avraham Elya's son) in MeMa'ayanei Agudath Israel World Organization. Kedem, p. 330. Skokie IL, as well as Mora D'Asra of Cong, Bais Tefilla Personal, even professional, fulfill­ in Chicago. His most recent contribution to these 2 His first pen name was "Mattisyahu Acher," Mat­ p.ag~~ was ':Dr. Isaac Breuer 'r"YI, History and Des­ tisyahu - a loyal son of his nation; Ac her - but also, ment never satisfied him. Like Avraham tiny, June, 97. a heretic who denied his nation's faith (ibid., p. 319; Avinu, his quest was never personal sal- see also Encyclopedia fudaica, vo!. 4, pp. l 040-1042).

The Jewish Observer, May 1997 17 vation or achievement, but the renais­ he published works in Yiddish and Hashem chose you and gave you His sance and growth of the entirety of Klal Hebrew that were challenges to us: Torah. Didn't he also command you Yisroel. Thus, after returning to Torah You complain about the traitors to uBe holy unto Me"? How can you take and mitzvos, Dr. Birnbaum felt com­ Taras Hashem and about our period pride in that He chose you, yet not pur­ pelled to publicize and promote what he that produces such traitors. You are sue holiness as He has commanded? had found. angry with these traitors, who have dis­ It can only be because it is easier for But not to his estranged brethren! To tanced themeselves from Torah for the you thus. Dr. Birnbaum, the great challenge was sake of an easy life. But you who cling Every day you await the moment to energize Torah true Jewry. His to the Torah - do you not also seek when Hashem in His great mercy and "return" spurred him to new ambitions: comfort? Can't their pursuit of afflu­ love for you will send you Moshiach. Ambitions to rise and uplift his fellow ence be linked to your attitude? Why do you expect a gift, a grant, a Ma'aminimwith him, that we might all Why are you not angry with your­ favor? Why don't you improve your lead lives that befit scions of a holy selves? deeds, to merit Moshiach's coming by nation, of G-d's nation.Already in 1917, Every day you take pride in that your own righteousness? Indeed, the only way to merit such a reward is by travelling the road that ascends toward the loftiest level of holiness that man can attain. But this road appears to you . too difficult to travel. You seek only .,,. .,,,. that which is easy. ,. ..•Y· ..•Y· .,, . You know the Torah's words well. .,,. ..,. You also know which road leads to ...... •Y• -·~--·~-~ holiness. Why is it that you have not Kitzur KiL"W • . .,,. Eh•JkhimAn;th .,,,. walked along that road?• ,. ..•Y• ....,. '!l'IY'\f'i--;=,;:;;,;;~ ~--··-~-- .,, . .,,.,. .. ,. IN THE PATH OF ..•Y• Shulchan .... REB YISROEL SALANTER .... .,,. I'...,,, ....•Y• •·>•Y• Aruch .,, . eneration earlier, Rabbi Yisroel .,,..,. .,. alanter ':> .. ! had toiled to intro­ .•Y• .•Y• }J uce the idea of ongoing self- cri­ .,,. ..,..,, . tique and development. Dr. Birnbaum ...... •Y• ,,, . undertook a similar task. The main dif­ .,.. ..,.. ference in these two approaches, per­ ...... haps, lay in that Reb Yisroel focused on hi• bwutiful, fully menulrad, .,,. !!i'ill Heb<~/EngJIBh .,,.,. . individual avoda, while Dr. Birnbaum ,. .•Y· ..•Y· U Kitzur Shulchan Aruch 1s now available m a stressed the elevation of society.4 Dr. .,,. two volume boxed set. Priced affordably at $49.95 this is .,, . Birnbaum strove to mobilize Kial Yis­ ,. ..•Y• ,. ..'¥·· the ideal companion for students and educators alike. roefs energies in pursuit of shleimus as .,,..,. .,,.,. . an Am Hashem. .•Y• This makes an attractive gift for Bar or Bat Mitzvas. .•Y• 3 ''.4.m Hashem" - a collection of Dr. Birnbaum's .,,.,. Available at all fine Judaica bookstores, or directly from ''-·'.,. essays in Hebrew translation, (Netzach, Bnei Braq, ...... •Y• 1977), p. 91. The volume's name is taken from one the publisher: .,, . of his major works in German, Gottesvolk, "G-d's .,,. ..,. Nation:' This 1917 essay, "Eis La'asos," is also print­ ....•Y• .... The Israel Book Shop, Inc. ed in Rabbi Moshe Prager z"fs "L'Or HaNetzach" .,,.. ,. .,,.,. . (Research Institute of Religious Jewry, New York, 1962), .•Y• 410 Harvard St...... p. 437. "L>ivrei Ha'Olim"was published the same year. Brookline, Massachusetts 02146 .,, . 4 The resemblance was not lost on his contempo­ .....,. .,. raries in the Lithuanian Yeshiva world. Many of his .•Y• .•Y• .,, . writings were translated and published in HaNe'e­ .,,..,. 617-566-7113 .,. man, the Telzer journal that served as the voice of .•Y• ..... contemporary Mussar. I am grateful to Rabbi Tuvya . LasdWl, librarian at the Gottesman Library of Yeshiv­ .,.. 800-323-7723 ...,. as Rabbeinu Yitzchak Elchanan for providing me with .,. ..•Y• .•Y• copies of Dr. Birnbaum's essays in HaNe'eman. It .,,. .,,. .,,. . . . .,,. . .,,...... would be a great favor to our generation were some­ ...... ,. ... ,. ., one to reprint the HaNe'eman series, which is dif­ •Y•.,. ,. ., ,. .,. .,. ,. ., ·Y•,. •Y·., ·Y• ,. ... •Y• ...... •Y• .•Y• ...... ficult to obtain.

·------~·------~··------18 The Jewish Observer,. J\.1ay 1997 It followed that the organization that afford a glimpse of Ha'Olim's program knowledge that do not lead to fervor and unified Orthodox Jewry under the ban­ and activities. submission are imperfect. Submission ner of Torah true principles should serve Dr. Birnbaum identified three areas before Hashem leads one to submit to as the vehicle for that elevation. This was in which we must sanctify ourselves: others that submit to G-d's will as well, Dr. Birnbaum's perspective on Agudath da' as, rachamim and tiferes. but not to those who do not, i.e., evil­ Israel. He saw the Agudah as the ideal By da'as he meant awareness and doers, scoffers and the haughty. forum in which to promote constant knowledge of Hashem. He did not By rachamim he meant that we striving for his' a/us and shleimus. He per­ mean that one should study the evidence should cling to Hashem's middas sistently lobbied the Agudah's leaders of G-d's existence and the like. Dr. Birn­ harachamim and have mercy upon our and members to join in his great push baum meant that we should be inti­ fellow beings. Such rachamim must be for mass refinement.s mately acquainted with Hashem. This aroused when one perceives either Dr. Birnbaum organized small intimacy would be manifest in fervor physical or spiritual anguish in anoth­ groups of individuals that would devote (hislahavus) in Hashem and submission er; it must concern itself both with themselves even more intensely to the (hachna'a) before Him. Awareness and remediation of extant pain and with pre­ cause of his'alus. Known as "Ha'Olim," vention of potential pain; and it must these groups were to be the vanguard of 8 I am grateful to The Nathan and Solomon Birn­ address communities and individuals baum Archives of Toronto, under the auspices of Dr. a great movement toward heightened Birnbaum's grandchildren, Prof. Eleazar and Mr. equally. avodas Hashem. David Birnbaum, for providing me with the records By tiferes he meant that we must con­ Ha'O/im groups were extant from the and protocols that do exist, including the cover page sciously borrow a part of the ultimate of an issue of Der Aufstieg, a monthly journal pub­ 19!0's until the 1930's. It was with the lished by Dr. Birnbaum in Berlin from 1930-1933, glory that)s Hashem's and adorn our­ solidification of the Agudah after the sec­ from which the title of this essay and the accom­ selves with it. The stress here is on "bor­ ond Kenessia Gedo/a (in 1927), however, panying illustration are taken. A sad but fasdnat· row" - as opposed to "acquire." We ing sidebar: One of the prominent members of that Dr. Birnbaum first mounted a major Ha'O/im was Daniel Schindler, father of Reform must see ourselves as a part of the glory effort to expand the movement.• [See "Rabbi" Alexander Schindler. Another grandson, Mr. that is the Creation, not as independent box.) He publicized a signed call to join Jacob Birnbaum, informed me that the Schindler sources of splendor. The danger of the family's tal/is has an atara upon which are embroi­ his fledgling movement. Most of the sig­ dered the words: "da'as, rachamim, tiferes." latter attitude is haughtiness and self- nators were well-known ideologues and activists of the early Agudah. The Kol Koreh was printed simultaneously in the newsletter of Agudas Yisroel in Germany and in the Telzer HaNe'eman (in Hebrew).'

A GLIMPSE OF HA'OLIM'S ACTIVITIES TttE YE§HNA OJF NEW HAVEN announces the opening ew records of their activities of a new dormitory for remain.• But the Ha'Olim literature its Mesivta and is Fand Dr. Birnbaum's writings accepting applications

5 A fascinating facet of Dr. Birnbaum program was for ninth grade Elul a firm belief that cosmopolitan lifestyles were detri­ Zman 5757. mental to his'alus. He believed that the intensity and competitiveness of city life and trade were inimi­ - Shiurim by the Rosh cal to the contemplative and deliberate personali­ ty that is the Torah's ideal. He was, therefore, very HaYeshiva vocal in his advocacy of a return to a rural, agrar­ - Excellent Chevra ian lifestyle. See, for example, Am Hashem pp. 106+ 107. - Top Rebbeim 6 Men of Spirit (New York, 1964), Rabbi Leo Jung - Solid Secular Studies zt"/, Editor, p. 337 (essay by Dr. Solomon A. Birn­ baum z"l on his father, Dr. Nathan Birnbaum). A Mesivta for bochurim interested in learning seriously, with small 7 The Kol Kore11 in HaNe'eman is accompanied by shiurim designed to encourage close relationships \Vith the Rebbeim. an editorial essay (likely authored by Rabbi Yosef Shmuelevitz "T"'i"I, editor of HaNe' eman, and a tow­ ;i::i'l!J>n l!!N1 ,N"1J':>'ll 1)1l)'IJYl omr.i •1 l"il1il ering figure in his own right), that expresses East­ ern European amazement that such a movement 195 Norton Street, New Haven, Connecticut 06511 might have been conceived in Germany- a coun­ Migh School curriculum approved by Sra!e of Connecticut Department of Education try they perceived as bereft of spiritual strivings and Mussar inclinations; and also a heartfelt plea to the Lithuanian Yeshiva world to recognize the com­ For applications call (203) 777-9925 pelling necessity to join in these efforts.

-·------·--·-···--- ·------The Jewish Observer, May 1997 19 Ko#-Koreh/Public The Society of Olim Proclamation (free translation) Based on the ideas expressed by Dr. Nathan Birnbaum in his book, "In the Work of Promise." "And you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a sacred nation." G-d This society, as part of the frame­ • To strengthen emuna and dili­ commanded Israel to sanctify itself and work of Agudas Yisroel, will not be a gent Torah study. raise up that sanctity as an example political party or entity aspiring to rally • To imbue their hearts with true and a banner. This is the task of the masses under its flag. It will not com­ love and awareness of Hashem. Jewish nation. It has not yet completed pete with independent Orthodox • To habituate themselves to the this task. It is still distant from the organizations. On the contrary - it midda of rachamim: empathy, assistance pathway that leads to this sanctity. It yearns to be an army of pioneers and good will in matters bein adam is still far from true awareness and upon which others can rely. l'chaveiro. service of Hashem; far from compas­ The purpose of the society is: To •To arouse themselves to thoughts sion and extra care in matters bein promote the idea that Agudas Yisroel of Kiddush Hashem and to pattern adam l'chaveiro; far from arranging must create the necessary conditions their public lives in a splendid and itself in a modest way amid the world's to refine the entire Jewish nation .... majestic authentic Jewish manner. grandeur, a way that would reflect the Then, under the leadership of the Rab­ Anyone who yearns to see Yisroel majesty of G-d Himself. Even worse, bonim of the Mo'etzes Gedolei Ha Torah, ascend to its proper level as a nation a part of the level that the nation had the nation will be enhanced. It will of destiny and example, and knows that already achieved has eroded. Our bein become a true Kriesses Yisroel, one that he has the capacity to toil with his odom loMokom is frigid and has embraces the entire nation of an Israel entire personality for the benefit of become flippant; our bein odam that is chored l'dvar Hashem with this purpose, should come and iden­ f'chaveiro has become artificial or polit­ strong and tight-knit bonds, as tify himself to us! ical. Our lives are either patterned opposed to the state of anarchy that We must mention an individual after foreign, empty ideals, or bereft currently reigns. that to our sorrow has already of all esthetics and order, not sacred Before all else, however, the soci­ passed from among us: Rabbi Avro­ unto Hashem. ety must ensure that it itself will be hom Eliyahu Kaplan ., .. , was among Will this decline continue? Is it per­ an example and role model. Not just those who began to gather under the missible to gaze with equanimity on in a return to agriculture (in that it idea of "Ha'Olim." He signed this Kol this destruction? Has the time not will found a model colony now, and, Koreh some years ago. Were he still come to turn the evil back? Hasn't the subsequently, various colonies, in alive, he certainly would have had his moment arrived for Am Yisroef to strive Eretz Yisroel and other lands). Primar­ name signed on the Kol Koreh as it is for that ascent for which it was cho­ ily, rather, by proving that courage of now being issued. He surely would sen? Who [but us] is responsible for spirit and self education will have have participated and helped us now fortifying themselves and calling out enabled the society to achieve signif­ in our work. to Yisroel: Become more than you icant ascent despite the current less­ We will eagerly provide more presently are! Be more than true to than-ideal situation. The society is information to anyone corresponding Hashem and His Torah. Take on the obliged to build groups of those who to the address of: mighty responsibility for the life yearn for sanctity within the body of Samuel Ostersetzer, Duisburg force of the Jewish nation! Am Yisroel. (Germany) Charlottenstrasse 62. One thing gives us hope, the fact To attain its goal the society will From Poland and throughout East­ that Charedim have recently organized use special techniques and regulations ern Europe, to the address of: Advocate Dr. Ben-Zion Fessler, Kolomea whose fundamentals have already themselves and become productive. (Poland) Sobieckiego 8. Through these efforts they have been formulated, but whose details In the month of Kislev 5688: gained much in distinction, in confi­ must still be resolved.With no shred Rabbi Dr. Elie Munk,AnsbachfMordechai Knoble· witsch, DortmundfSamuel Ostersetzer, Duisburg/ dence and in the quest to act. This of politics, the society will educate all lawyer Isaac Rosenheim, Frankfurt/Dr. Gershoo gives us hope, that soon they will those who accompany it: Schnerb, Frankfurt/Dr. Solomon Birnbaum, Ham· burg/Wolf S. Jacobson, Hamburg/Moshe Elus, Kas­ come to realize their capacity for the • To the capacity to withstand the selfDavid Ullmann, KasselfOr. Seo-Zion Fessler, greatest task of all. modern rebellions against both emuna KolomeafHenry van Leeuwen, Rotterdam! Rabbi Tuvia Horowitz,Rzeszow/Binyomin Mintz.Tel AvivfOr. in and and against the To fulfill this hope, the undersigned Hashem Mesora Leo Oeutschlander,VieooafAJfred Stroh,Vienna/Yehu­ committee has decided to found laws of tzenius and kavod chachamim. da Leib Orlean, Warsaw

20 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 centeredness. Kedushas hatiferes requires without slavishness, with the full weight us to identify, define and pursue a Torah of the idea. Furthermore, there must esthetic - in our dress, our abodes, our arise a small force of pioneers in self­ art and our music - one that reflects sanctification to serve as an example and the values of an Am Segula.' . l role model for Am Yisroe/ .... This was not abstract idealism. Dr. [Organized Orthodoxy) is obliged to Birnbaum created a detailed plan for lif~IIE6 come together and create societal tools ascent in holiness. A 1927 address to the ElNE J\'.lDlSCHE 1"0NAJ'SSCHRIFT that will teach: I. How to deepen our Agudah's Central Committee captures lllllGIER.T VON DR.NATHAN BIRN'BAUM. awareness of Hashem out of love for the essence of the Ha'Olim's program:'" 1 • ••~ ...... "'·"'"'" Him {da'as]. 2. How to dedicate our­ selves to love our fellow human beings HA'OLIM'S PROGRAM, {rachamim]. 3. How to pursue modesty AS PER DR. BIRNBAUM: {hatznei'a leches] as a manifestation of the glory of our Hashem {tiferes] .... ( ( It is the greatest demand placed by Judaism itself on the Jewish people: "And you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a sacred nation:' If Chareidim seek to be true activists, then they must consider how they will fulfill this lofty demand that Judaism makes, They must place this demand at the center of their activism. I know that many- and not neces­ TO sarily the most base among us - respond to such demands with a smile on their lips. They perceive this as exag­ REBBETZlN gerated temimus, as a naivete that refus­ es to recognize the nature of humanity RUTHYAsSAF and its inescapable frailties. In truth, even I am far from believing that all THE BoARD OF J)JRBCIORS, FACULTY, human beings possess an equal capac­ PARENTS AND STUDENTS ity and amhition for a life of Mussar .... EJITEND A WARM AND ENTHUSIASTIC What I think, what I hope to WELCOME 'IO OUR NEW PRINCIPAL, achieve, what I demand from Chareidi A RENOWNED EDUCATOR AND LECfUlillR activists who recall G-d's ancient charge IN THIS COUNTRY AND J.sRAEL. to the Jewish people, is a society that attains a lofty character, so that each WE ARE PROUD THAT SHE CHOSE 'IO JOIN member of the society ascends dis­ OUR SCHOOL MAY SHE CONTINUE 'IO GO cernibly, whether to a great or small FROM STRENGTii 'IO STRENGTii· degree, even if that individual does not end as the outstanding ba'al middos .... How can the ideal of sanctity and character refinement become the new driving force within Am Yisroel? It seems to me, without doubt, that this ideal can only serve as a driving force if we can find suitable individuals to accept upon themselves to enunciate and 154 E. 10th St.(off Lexington APe.), New York, NY 10021 declare this ideal in all its breadth and Tel. (212) 737-6800 depth. They must do so incessantly, Our commitment ro Torah values and excellence in Jewish & general sudies can make a difference in your daulf1ter's life 9 The definitions here are taken from Am Hashem p. 109. 10 Reprinted in L'Or HaNetzach, p. 439.

-·--·-----···---··-----····---- The Jewish Observer, May 1997 21 ly supervise its men1bers to ensure that To achieve aliya in bein adam they are fulfilling this obligation. It must l'chaveiro, I propose: provide the opportunity to learn and 1. Instruction in the issues of bein grow through shiurim that it will con­ adam l'chaveiro and guidance in duct within its circle. The society shall expanded practical applications. Both campaign among its members, their modern and classic texts should be children and their students to convince employed, with a particular stress on them to embark upon a term of study current situations, to develop a greater ( (We must admit that cold intellectu­ in a yeshiva or under a renowned sense of belonging to Orthodox society alism has penetrated our relationship talmid chacham for one to three years.•• as a whole. with Hashem. Following through with 2. Festive gatherings of Chareidim, 2. The obligation of every Oleh to that metaphor, Ha'Olim cannot remain for spiritual purposes (such as the intro­ engage in cbeshbon hanefesh at least once at ease with this frigidity. They must toil duction of the Eastern European a week, to ascertain if, and to what extent, until within their societies, within each Shalash Seudos, etc.). he has fulfilled mitzvos and refrained from of their groupings and within each of 3. Special instruction in the history aveiros according to the instruction and their members there arise divine hisla­ and development of hislahavus and guidance provided to him. havus and inner spiritual feeling. dveykus in Israel and its practice. 3. An outright ban on certain mate­ To achieve aliya in Da'as Hashem, I 4. Great emphasis must be placed rial pursuits. envision [the following ideas I: upon a stipulation that every Oleh 4. Substantive and apolitical common I. Torah study in a more profound refrain from any excesses or immodesty counsel to resolve Jewish societal prob­ manner: Every "Oleh" is required to in speech, clothing, deed and from any lems in the spirit of Torah and Mesora. expand and deepen his knowledge of competitive sport or gambling. Even if the manner in which we dis­ Torah and Chachmas Yisroel. Before all 5. The development of a pure esthet­ play the public image of our lives does else, ifhe does not possess basic knowl­ ic that will free the architecture of our not currently convey our glory as the edge, he must acquire it upon entering shuls and the nature of our music from Chosen Nation, even if we are uncertain the society. The society must constant- the influence of other religions .... how to properly become the glory [pe'er] of the world, Ha'Olim cannot allow the status quo to continue. They must r.------~ attempt to rectify as much as possible. To achieve aliya in the manners of ARE You MOVING? creating public lives, I would project: 1. Instruction in issues concerning IS YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS PRINTED glory [ tiferes] and its correlation to reli­ INCORRECTLY ON THE JO MAILING LABEU gion and mussar" ... [and] practical We need your help to ensure proper delivery of the Jewish Observer to your home. guidance in the application of these Please attach current mailing label in the space below, or print clearly your address and principles to the creation of appropri­ computer processing numbers that are printed above your name on the address label. ate public lives. 2. The development of an indepen­ dent Jewish social structure following Affix old label here Judaism and mussar. 3. The development of arts, especially architecture, music and poetry, rooted in the spirit of true Jewish Mesora, and the establishment of competitions in Name~------these areas. New Address ~---~--~-~~~~~~--~~~-~ 4. The previously mentioned (in the sec­ City, tion on da'as Hashem) ban on excesses. As a means of ascent in all three afore State, ______.Zip 11 We must be aware of the German Orthodox Date Effective milieu, in which yiras Shamayim and shemiras ~~~~-~----~~-~~~~~~~~~ hamitzvos were very strong, but Torah knowledge, Send address changes to: The Jewish Observer Change of Address scholarship and religious fervor were relatively weak. 84 William Street, New York, NY 10038 Advanced yeshiva study (except for those who aspired to the rabbinate) was unheard of. Pl1:>ase allow 4-6 weeks for all change<> to be reflected on your mailing label. We will not be 12 Dr. Birnbaum references here a work by Reh f(>sponslble for back issues missed unless you notify us 6 weeks prior to your move. .J L ------Yaakov Rosenheim z"l on Aesthetics and Judaism. 22 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 ( (mentioned areas I would consider: new society. That which we will found Forseeing the danger posed by Hitler Involvement in the education of here is a Kiddush Hashem that will unite yemach shemo v'zichro, Dr. Birnbaum young men and young women accord­ the driving forces of Chassidus, of the fled Berlin (where he had lived since ing to the demands of Ha'Olim - an Mussar Movement, of the Talmudic 1911) with his family in 1933. He involvement that will become especial­ Masters and of the ambition for loftier moved promptly to The Hague in Hol­ ly substantial when it will be possible to Derech Eretz .... This will be a Kiddush land. He continued there to publish yet arrange such education among large Hashem to an extent never before another periodical, "Der Rufe." The groups of Ha'Olim or in their respective attempted. A Kiddush Hashem that will upheavals, however, took their toll. Dr. communities .... be the first step toward the blossoming Birnbaum's death in 1937, along with There is no room to doubt the of the ancient Torah, a debt that we owe the Holocaust, decimated the Ha'Olim importance of Ha'Olim to the entirety Hashem in return for the chessed He has movement. of Agudas Yisroel .... Through their avoda granted us in choosing our nation. It is We certainly have not done Dr. in the ideals of mussar and middos (a the first step toward fulfilling the task, Nathan Birnbaum or "Ha'Olim" justice. labor unto itself), they can be a special for which Hashem has chosen us.)) What we have attempted here, rather, is force for the Agudah, if only the Agu­ to place upon the table of Judaism an dah realizes how to take advantage of POSTSCRIPT array of essential ideas. The challenge this opportunity. For although the Agu­ that Dr. Birnbaum placed before the dah's strengths are mostly organizational nfortuantely for us all, Hitler's Agudah's central committee seventy and political, it cannot derive its life force rise to power put an end to the years ago is still relevant. The Holocaust from those strengths .... It must focus on U activities of those groups of led to compelling "distractions": the those inherent strengths of Yahadus Ha'Olim that had begun to form in var­ rebuilding of Orthodoxy and the Yeshi­ itself, its eternal ideas and ancient ious places. The unsettled conditions va world; the solidification of our that prevailed in Europe doomed this yearnings as well. In the final analysis, socio-economic and political founda­ stength of will is contingent on those attempt to create a nucleus of enthusi­ tions; the popularization of large scale ideas and yearnings .... astic young Jews dedicated to the spir­ Torah study projects. Please do not allow your hearts to itual regeneration of their people. n But isn't it now time for deter- persuade you that all there is here is the mined, structured ascent? • foundation of yet another redundant 13 Men of Spirit, ibid.

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The Jewish Observer, May 1997 23 t r co ______and special care.

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The Jewish Hospice of Greater New York is a program of The Brooklyn Hospice. a participating program of Metropolitan Jewish Health System. Dr. Meir Wik/er A Neglected Chessed: Comforting the Bereaved Who Are Not Aveilim

A noted mental health professional offers some ((where are they sitting?" granted happiness of normal births. and "Till when is the practical advice on What do you say to a woman who has shiva?" are almost reflex­ comforting the bereaved just suffered a miscarriage? What ive questions asked in response to a should you not say? How do you com­ besurah ra'ah. Although the task is far who are not required to fort her husband? less enjoyable than the chessed of being sit shiva. If you are like most, you probably say m'sameach chosson v'kallah, most peo­ and do nothing for fear of hurting the ple today recognize the great benefit to bereaved parents even more. While aveilim of performing the mitzva of we receive from family and friends goes such a sheiv v'al ta'aseh (passive) poli­ nichum aveilim. a long way towards helping us weather cy prevents you from committing any While there still may be room for the storm. While this is true for all of faux pas, it also leaves the grief strick­ improvement in the manner in which life's stresses, there are three particular en parents feeling abandoned and alone. we perform this vital mitzva (See: "The circumstances of bereavement which are The best thing you can do is Psychodynamics of Grief and Mourn­ so often overlooked that we need to be acknowledge their loss. Tell the parents ing: A Layman's Guide to Making a Shiva reminded of them. that you heard about it so they won't Visit," JO, )an. '85), most people would have to guess whether or not you know. agree that nichum avei/im today does not 1. Miscarriages Then take your cues from them. If they belong in the disregarded category of a want to talk, they will. If they would meis mitzva(i.e. a mitzva that has he prescribed rituals of shiva are rather try to forget about it, they'll become abandoned). conducted only when the niftar change the subject. Follow their lead. When we hear of someone sitting Twas at least 30 days old, or, if If you can, offer some concrete assis­ shiva, we know just what to do, what is younger, was definitely born after a full tance. "Can I take any of the little ones expected of us and how we can help. nine months, (See, Yoreh Deah, Section off your hands for a couple of hours?" Chazal have provided us with clear 3, Chapter 340:30 and 374:8.) When a "Do you need anything at the grocery guidelines for just how to demonstrate fetus in not carried to full term, there­ store? I wouldn't mind adding a few our support to those who have been fore, the parents do not have the items to my order for you." struck by aveilus. halachic status of aveilim. Of course, you should avoid moral­ But what about the bereaved who are But the parents may be just as grief izing and don't attempt to cheer up the not required to sit shiva? Are their emo­ stricken at the loss of an 8 month old parents. That just gives them the mes­ tional needs any less pressing? How can fetus as they would be if the child had sage that they're not supposed to feel we reach out and comfort those grief been born, And the loss of a fetus can sad, or that they're expected not to feel stricken individuals in our midst who be just as devastating to parents, pam. do not have the halachic status of whether or not they have other children. If they raise theological questions you aveiliml This article will attempt to The agonizing disappointment and can respond. But don't begin with tl>e address these questions. crushing loss may even be compound­ "positive" side of their loss unless they tum During any crisis in life, the support ed by excessive and unreasonable feelings to you for that kind of chizuk or unless you Dr. Meir Wtl

------·----··----···--·--- ··--·--·--- The Jewish Observer, May 1997 25 2. The Days and Weeks After Shiva that what they feared most during 3. The Loss of Extended Family Members their first week of bereavement was how sk anyone who has ever sat shiva on earth they would ever manage he Shulchan Aruch requires sitting what was the most difficult time. returning to their regular jobs, classes shiva only for the seven immedi­ AChances are nine out of ten will and daily routines. Tate family members: father, answer, "the day" or "the week after shiva Going back to yeshiva or back to mother, sister, brother, son, daughter, was the hardest." work is an enormous challenge which and spouse. The emotional bond For close to seven days the aveilim are should never be faced alone. A brief visit between other relatives, however, may be never left alone. All of their practical or even a phone call to "touch base" with just as close, if not closer. needs are taken care of by others. They someone who has just gotten up from Someone may feel closer to a grand­ do not even prepare food for themselves. shiva can go a long way towards easing parent, cousin, step parent, or in-law And they do not leave the beis aveil in the burden of that most difficult tran­ (father, mother, brother, sister, son or most cases, except for Shabbos. sition from the secure cocoon of shiva daughter) than they do to more imme­ For the week of shiva, family and to the threatening challenges of every­ diate family members. Nevertheless, when friends rally around the is giving them day life. one of these relatives is niftar there is no the moral support they so desperately If it is a chessed to make a shiva visit, formalized recognition of the loss. (See, need to help them cope with the crisis is it any less of a chessed to pick up the Yoreh Deah, Section 3, Chapter 374:7.) of their bereavement. Their days are phone the following week and ask the The bereaved individual has no structured with the minyanim and vis­ aveilhow it's going? Believe me, those few structured opportunity to vent his or her its of those who come to offer comfort. calls that do come in the week after shiva feelings of grief. He or she wiJJ attend But the day after shiva, all of this sup­ are often appreciated far more than the the levaya, of course, as weJJ as the k'vu­ port is withdrawn. And some aveilim hundreds of visits the week before. This rah and/or shiva. But the focus of experience an emotional free fall which is not meant to suggest that one should attention is, as it should be, on the aveil­ leaves them feeling alone and over­ rather caJJ the week after shiva instead of im. Nevertheless, that may leave this per­ whelmed. Many people have confided making a shiva visit. But one should try, son with bottled up emotions to deal to me shortly after getting up from shiva whenever possible, to do both. with alone.

~~; 9~: ;•Wii,tlo~~:liand · c l.a"ll~~~~i>w#r~lriipiitg fA(Ccou~ting / .·· .. ·.. · ...... , '. • financialConcepts ·····;. ' ·.. · ,~nd:- -_ - ,' -- :_ ,,..-/_-.-.') •••AdVan~(!~~?~df'erfect 0 1.JNIX ~i,(!n f'r'!!P'"t11 r1ing ·· •· • ~ Computerized ACcounting ; totos // . · .: · • lntroto~c~o~nti~g .······ ••··•·Vlsua.t~asics••< "• ~ 1~2.Y ... ·. ~- .LOtlls l :2.(l c. Ex<;et / > ...• •.•• • ()racle pata"b~(! and · ~ ~f>rllputet Literaty · .: · •• Computerized~c~o11.nting: 1heSQl;~ngu,ag(! ·~,·- .·• )ndodes Pea~httee • ~t>dica:ld/r.teclicare &·Qukkbooks · Receivables · ' // /c ;. DAYTIME CLASSES - BEGINNING JULY 7 ·· ;•ti• ;·~l~~\1Cial ~;d 0 · . . ·.. Avai,la"bl(>f!>rlntom(! it /~~·w~i'.'&~~~~EEi ca11.1mrnediately••·•·.•. ·.··.·>·······.. ··.· .•. •·•.••>••·•••···•·.. ··•· .•• ;.. 1:11gimt!;\Jli>li~;1;~ .. ·•·····~ .~~~J~~~;0i:rl0038 •(212) 8(}9~593~ ~$s~~~~J'lJ'i>t~~o~~~ti6n"I ..... --.- ..... ------.._cc_------~~~---~::::::::::::::::==~_.:'.:] ··------·-·------..·--- 26 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 This does not mean that people who much a chessed to address their feelings they'll simply change the subject, which come to make a shiva visit should ignore as it is to comfort someone who is sit­ they have every right to do. But because the aveilim and turn their attention to ting shiva. In fact, since so many peo­ you brought up the subject of their loss, the bereaved cousins or grandchildren. ple ignore the emotional needs of you have performed an act of chessed But it does mean that it would also be bereaved extended family members, which takes so little time and yet fulfills an act of chessed to acknowledge that a your words of support and comfort may the Biblical command of V'ahavta l'rey­ bereaved sister- in-law or father-in-law be even more appreciated. acha kamocha (Vayikra 19,18). has just suffered a major loss. You don't need to be a talmid In this age of"emergency chessed par­ chacham or a mental health professional ties" and multi-million dollar, interna­ to know what to say. just acknowledge tional chessed organizations, it is impor­ the loss and then take your cues from tant to remember that a great chessed can Not too long ago, a young 1nan, let's them. If they want to talk, they will, now sometimes be performed simply by ask­ call him Levi, lost his father-in-law, Mr. that you've given them the chance. If ing, "I heard of your loss. How are you Wein. In the last few years ofMr. Wein's they don't want to vent any feelings, doing?" B life, Levi was single-handedly respon­ sible for coordinating the increasingly complicated medical care Mr. Wein required. In fact, Levi took a more active role in contacting doctors and shep­ herding Mr. Wein to his medical appointments than Mr. Wein's children. Levi was eager to accept these addi- tional responsibilities for his father-in­ Attention law because of the deep respect and love which had built up over the years since Shiddoch Shoppers Levi had married into the Wein family. Coming from an irreligious home, Levi looked for and received much spiritu­ al and practical guidance from Mr. Wein. Kindly be aware that Reb Moshe Finer Now he was gone. Levi visited the and his wife, Shifra, are bringing their house of mourning as much to comfort compassionate insights and expertise his in-laws and wife as to find some com­ to the Orthodox community by serving fort for himself. As he sat in the beis aveil as Shadchonim for Ba'alei T'shuva. listening to the outpouring of sympathy Their unique programs have produced for his in-laws, he couldn't help wishing more than I 00 successful marriages! that at least some of it be directed at him. Two weeks later, during his annual Personal, confidential introductions check-up, Levi broke into uncontrollable mark their discreet, selective process. sobbing when his doctor said, "I heard you lost your father-in-law recently. How Please contact the Finers to are you doing, now?" schedule an interview.

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ou are not supposed to make a shiva visit to anyone who is not Y an aveil. But if you meet or speak with someone who just lost his grandfather or daughter-in-law, it is as

n'l:tM rnl!l'l? ~!ll'll'1'>l TIO~ Ni '1""1 "1)):1 Mr.l""-> ~Wt tl~'n '"l '" Mi>l?> 1:1. = 'Y:ll1i 1"U1!>

The Jewish Observer, May 1997 27 The right choice or you.

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Over the past ~'~~~~~~~~~~~= few years, questions have 1·~ ... been raised as to the validity of modern-day Jewish music and whether or not it ' has overstepped the bounds of propriety. The following is not being written to enter the debate. Rather, it is to shed positive light on some major effects Jewish music has had over the past two decades.

hat can bring a beaming smile non-religious to their roots and lead everywhere is a project called "Simchas to the face of a chronically ill them to become baalei teshuva? Chava:' Born in 1988, under the aus­ W child, when nothing his Two words can answer these ques­ pices of Agudath Israel in conjunction devoted parents can do for him seems tions. Jewish Music. And with good rea­ to be mitigating his heartbreaking sit­ son. Over the years, Jewish music has NOTICE uation? become a pipeline between Jews and The following Is the. te1d of article VI of the Beth Medrash Qovoha, Lake• What are the first words out of a their souls, effectively bridging a gap that ·w()(Jd, N.J. by.. 1aws, _which_ are -cur.. HASO child's mouth as he steps off his was otherwise filled by various and rerltly in fun force and effect, -and are "school" bus into the arms of his fam­ sundry secular pursuits that bore no carried out In practice. ily after a summer away from home? beneficial results. The obvious positive AR'TlCLl:VI Bl!lh M&drash Govoha shall maintain What could possibly enliven a "Shab­ effects of Jewish music cannot be negat­ a nondiscriminatory adlllisl!io6s policy baton" in a place as remote from major ed nor denied by even its most ardent and shall at all ll111es.be In co111pllance with applicable lederal, state and lotlll Jewish population centers as Omaha, critics. Allow me to delve a bit into the regulati_ons In regard to adriliss·ions, Nebraska? specifics. a_ccommodations, educational oppo;.. tunitYr _·student ai_d policies 11nd And what is it that can attract the employment. 1 Hebrew Academy for Special Children FOR THE CHRONICALLY ILL: Ouali_lied men of "the J•ish faiih ate )UST WHAT THE DOCTOR ORDERED admitted toBl!lhMedrash G0voha and Dovid N. Golding, the Ding half of Suki & Ding Pro­ are_ -uniformfy-_ accorded __all .-_rights, ductions, is responsible for the proliferation of"Uncle privilege• and benefits, Without l'l!gard Moishy and the Mitzvah Men" tapes, as well as a host ne invaluable contribution Jew­ to race, -color, national or ethnic origin. of other musical recordings and concerts worldwide. Beth Medrash Govoha shall inalntain ish music has made to chroni­ a policy of Equar Opportunity ln !111- The author acknowledges the efforts of Mrs. C. Sru­ cally ill children and adults ployment. lowitz for her contribution to this article. 0

The Jewish Observer, May 1997 29 with Suki & Ding Productions, it was David, walks into the room and starts in Bethesda, Maryland, for the express named in memory of Mrs. Chava singing to him! purpose of singing his songs to a nine­ Golding, a truly loving woman who had Picture, too, the tired lines of year-old boy on a respirator. The doc­ devoted her life to Bikur Cholim. Sim­ exhaustion disappearing from the face tors had all but given up hope for the chas Chava spreads cheer through of a mother in Milwaukee when Uncle sick little boy and then, out of the blue, music amongst the seriously ill and Moishy, a well-loved Jewish children's in walks Avraham Fried and a keyboard handicapped. entertainer, dances into the hospital player. They hit a chord and begin Imagine, if you will, the look on the room with his guitar and coaxes a real singing to the tiny figure huddled in face of the Bar Mitzva boy, stricken with smile out of her sick child. And this was white blankets, machines of all kinds a severe form of multiple sclerosis, too a boy who had refused to acknowledge surrounding his motionless form. Doc­ sick to deal with the strain an ordinary the presence of his friends and family tors and nurses stop in their tracks. Bar Mitzva can place on a child, when for weeks. Uncle Moishy even managed "Look! He hears you!" one of the suddenly, at the celebration of this mile­ to get the little boy to sing along. physicians practically shouts. "Come! stone event, the band strikes up an intro, Consider Avraham Fried taking a Everyone! He's smilir;g! He's clapping!" and his biggest hero, Mordechai Ben flight to the National Institute of Health The doctors and nurses gathered

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30 ---The Jewish Observer, May 1997 around the bed that day unshamedly cried.2 About two years ago, Dedi visited a hos­ pitalized teenage girl who was stricken with cancer. After he had finished singing, he told the young girl, "Don't worry, you'll be okay. Be' ezras Hashem, I'm going to sing at your wedding, too." The girl smiled wanly, knowing how improbable the thought of her getting married was. Shortly before this past Pesach, Dedi, smiling broadly, walked into the Sands Ballroom and kept his promise. He sang at her wedding. Simchas Chava has also sent hun­ dreds of Jewish tapes and videos to hos­ YESTERDAY. TODAY and FOREVER is a history book - unlike any other! Not pitals in all corners of the globe; orga­ only are readers treated to an exciting. nizations such as Chai Lifeline, Rofeh, panoramic view of Jewish history - Zichron Shlomo, Caring and Sharing, but parables. stories. and teachings and the Bobover and Satmar Bikur from our Sages accompany the text - Cholim groups know that they can call every step of the way. upon these resources at any given time Every chapter features discussions of to provide musical therapy for the ill. pertinent mitzvoth, halachik material, as well as discussions of THE HANDICAPPED: SPECIAL Jewish thought, lessons in values, character traits, and hashkofoh. TREATMENT FOR SPECIAL CHILDREN YESTERDAY, TODAY and FOREVER has something for everyone: the people. places, and events of Jewish history. along with the lessons and spirit of Jewish n the Jewish world, HASC has history. become a household name for their YESTERDAY, TODAY and FOREVER: Read it and learn, read it and grow I tireless efforts geared to children ... at the same time. with handicaps. All year long, including Also available: YESTERDAY, TODAY AND FOREVER - Volume One the summer months,, HASC relies on To preview this and other selected Feldheim books Jewish music to sustain its children both visit www.thejewishworld.com/books mentally and physically. Ask a HASC child how his summer was. I did. "Mordechai ben David came to our camp! I sang on stage with Mordechai ben David' Me!" The look on his face said more than his words did. Organizations such as Mishkan, P'tach, Chush, and others too numer­ ous to mention, look forward to appear­ ances by Jewish singers and entertain­ ers as a break from the every-day grind and as an uplifting experience to all ages CAPITAL CAMPAIGN and stages of handicap. DIRECTOR Highly acclaimed, 500-student 2 Other popular Jewish musicians such as Yerach­ K-8 Yeshiva seeks experienced miel Begun, Mendy Wald, Yisroel Williger, Yeedel professional to orchestrate major Werdyger, the Piamentas, Sandy Shmuely, Abish 2 bedroom suite with Brodt, Country Yossi, Rivie Schwebel, Dov Levine, capital campaign. kitchenette and living room at Ali Scharf, Avraham Rosenblum, Yoe! Sharabi and Send resume (including references) Rochel Miller have donated graciously of their time Lev Yerushalayim sleeps 7 and energy to bring smiles to the faces of sick chil­ in strict confidence to: available directly from owner dren. Search Committee 3 July 14. '97 through Aug. 25. '97 Their summer program, which allows these chil­ Fax ( 410) 486-0801; dren to be away from home for a few weeks, pro­ vides their parents with a much-needed respite. e-mail: [email protected] (718) 854-1944

The Jewish Observer, May 7997 31 Imagine a beautiful little girl born her eyes suddenly sparkle and she brings OUTREACH: A MUSICAL SHABBOS mentally retarded and who, to her par­ her tiny hands together to clap softly. It ents' dismay, hasn't shown the slightest might have only lasted a few seconds and hat would a Shabbaton be reaction to the world around her in her maybe only her father witnessed this mir­ without Jewish music? Orga­ two short years of life. Then one day, sit­ acle, but no price tag can be placed on the W nizations like NCSY, JEP, Aish ting on her father's lap, oblivious and tears of joy a simple song about mitzvos Hatorah, Chabad, and many more have quiet at an Uncle Moishy performance, evoked that day. long banked on the uniting effects of Jewish music of every kind to join ...... i"ln teenagers the world over and bring peo­ BCC IS EVERY GIRL'S DREAM... ple closer to Hashem. Rabbis Yerachmiel The Best Summer in Israel camping I touring program Milstein and Yaakov Salomon, who for frum girls ages 10-17 can today, for early lead Discovery programs across the U.S., registration discount. have given testimony to the potent force Six Weeks Of0ver22 Excfting Tours, DailyShiurim, music has provided to their efforts in ~tllT Drama, Music, Dance, Arts & Crafts And The Special "'.y.'<: Kiruv Rechokim, penetrating even the Spirit Which Is The Hallmark Of The BCC Program. most hardened hearts,' ranging from ~"'"' Russian immigrants to budding Yankee On Camous: Waterpark, Large Pools, Water Slides. ~ baalei teshuva. Midreshes L 'Mitzvos Hatluyos B'aretz. Dairy Farm, 'l\liH'~~ Zoo, Sports Fields. And So Much More. ~'\ Jewish music has gone where no one 4-" had gone before, giving Jewish teenagers Join The Hundreds Of Girls Who Have Enjoyed Touring ~ an alternative to non-Jewish music. So Eretz Yisroel, With The Zelman Family Since 1986. ~If. when the Beatles were trying to mark ~~ their territory with our children, Pirchei 4 Singers and entertainers like Rabbi Shmuel Brazil, Abie Rotenberg, Shelly Lang, Zale Newman and Yossi CAMP BNOSCHOFETZ CHAIM Lieber are just a few musical talents who have left 623 CORTELYOU RD.• B'KLYN N. Y. 11218 (718) 282-6350 their permanent mark on the souls of searching Jews everywhere.

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32 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 records happened. And after that, the JEP records appeared, bringing their own distinctive style of English-language lyrics to the Jewish public. One specific incident stands out boldly in Kiruv history that attests to music's power: In 1990, Stanley Fe/singer, W c all experience turning the owner of Camp Monroe, a non-reli­ points in our lives: n1c1norable gious camp for teens, became observant. events that make a lifelong dif­ Not satisfied with his personal achieve­ ference in the \vav \VC look at ment, Stanley decided that Camp Mon­ and live out our lives. roe should also become religious. That SHINING LIGHTS is a book fall may have seemed beyond the realm ofpos­ of such men1orable encotu1ters: sibility, but the odds didn't stop him. po\verful, heart\var1ning stories of First, he started serving only Kosher faith and inspiration, of tribula­ food. Then he put a stop to public tion and trit1111ph, of hu1nor and Chillul Shabbos. But the job he had \varn1th - all infused \Vith the ahead ofhim, getting the children to actu­ light of Divine Providence, and all ally be aware ofand accept their precious told in Rucho1na Shain's unique, personable style. Jewish heritage, seemed insurmount­ able. At loss for a proper course ofaction, In SHINING LIGHTS, the beloved he approached Rabbi Aaron Schechter author of All For The Boss, Reaching The Stars, Dearest Children, and All For The Best once again provides read­ /\>""!>'71!>. Rosh Hayeshiva ofMesivta Rabbi ers vvith a delightful series of sti1nulating, uplifting stories. Chaim Berlin, and explained his predica­ ment. Rabbi Schechter suggested that he Why not treat yourself to this \vondcrfnl, ne\v collection of SHINING get the camp to experience a real Shab­ LIGHTS - fro1n Ruchon1a Shain. bos in all its glory. To preview this and other selected Feldheim books How does one tackle so great an visit www.thejewishworld.com/books assignment? Stanley devised a simple Available at all Jewish bookstores or direct from plan: From the first night ofcamp on, he made it his business to show his teens a FELDHEIM Jfl PUBLISHERS videotape of MBD singing "Just One Torah Literature of Quality Shabbos ... " taken at a concert. He 200 Airport Executive Park, Nanuel, NY 10954 •Tel (914) 356·2282 •Fax (914) 425-1908 •E-mail [email protected] showed it over and over again. Soon, Toll Free: 800-237-7149 • Ask for our catalog. everyone knew the song, word for word. When he caught sight of the children singing it on their own, he knew he was Rabbi Simcha Feuerman, CSW succeeding. Psychotherapist Towards the end ofthat summer, MBD ~~~ Invei • Structural Family found out about Camp Monroe and Stan­ Therapy ley's undertaking. He decided to surprise ~~fHagefen • Marital Counseling them with a visit. It was a visit no one at '-[<.. The Shidduch service • Child/School Camp that day will ever forget: the l'- Behavior Problems delighted screams from the teenagers and for older singles Inquire about short-term single-visit staff alike, the dancing, and most of all, A project of N'shei Agudath Israel prescriptive psychotherapy the singing. And when Mordechai ben with Agudath Israel of America David sang "Just One Shabbos" with the 6619 13th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11219 Offices located in Queens and Manhattan entire Camp Monroe accompanying him, Tel. (718) 256-7525 •Fax (718) 256-7578 (212) 598·6543 • Voice Mail (718) 595·0524 Stanley Fe/singer cried.

------·----·------·-----·--- The Jewish Observer, Moy 1997 33 A TRUE SIMCHA, INDEED was getting married that day. With no There's a fascinating story about a very music at her wedding, it would be a lack­ wealthy man in Israel who was stricken with aron Zutler, a well-known musi­ luster event. Could he please do it? cancer. Baruch Hashem he was cured after cian, relates an incident that Aaron had one small problem. He had a short regimen of therapy, and he invited A happened to him not long ago. promised to drive his wife to a Chinese Dedi to sing for his seudas hoda' a. Dedi A talented musician, he constantly Auction and did not like going back on agreed and sang from ten in the evening receives calls for his services in cases his word. Making a quick decision, he until four in the morning. Non-stop. At 4 where money is a problem. Whenever apologized profusely to his wife for not a.m., the grateful man took out his check possible, Aaron takes the jobs. being able to take her, sent her to the book and said, "So, Dedi, what do I owe One day, Rabbi Mutty Katz from JEPs Chinese Auction by taxi, and played for you for tonight?" called him in desperation, explaining the young Russian bride. A few hours "A million five," said Dedi, looking him that a Russian girl who had no money later, he received a call from his wife, straight in the eye. breathless with excitement. "You're not "You're kidding!" said the man, incred­ 5 Zeirei Agudath Israel's outreach effort: Jewish Edu­ cation Program. going to believe this, Aaron. We won the ulously. grand prize worth $2,500!'" "Nope," replied Dedi. "I'm as serious as I'll ever be." 'J\ MILLION FIVE??" "Yup. A million ./ive. You see, I'm trying to build a cancer center for children here." The man smiled. Then he took out his pen and wrote the check. Today, in Petach Tikvah, there's a new cancer center for chil­ dren.7 Full Time Classroom Teacher for students with Down's Syndrome JEWISH MUSIC: A CELEBRATION THAT and other disabilities. Children are integrated into the Joan Dachs LASTS A LIFETIME Bais Yaakov and Yeshiva Tiferis Tzvi in Chicago, Illinois. hat would a wedding be like Salary is commensurate with experience. Benefit package is without the chassan's Rosh included. To become a part of a state of the art organization W Yeshiva dancing with him to joyous music? A father and son danc­ please fax resume to Keshet at: ing at a Bar Mitzva? Baalei teshuva rejoicing with song at a Purim chagiga? (847) 205-1530 or call (847) 205-0274. The sick and handicapped celebrating life with music and laughter? Each instance, a beautiful picture to be cherished. To millions of Jews the world over, music is the lubrication that keeps their souls running, it's the sun peeking out of a hole in the clouds. One thing we're all certain of The Golus will end. But Jew­ ish music won't. •

For professionals or anyone considering fundraising as a career, this seminar 6 Aaron is only one of many musicians who have will give you the keys to maximize your effectiveness. dedicated selflessly of their time and talent. Eitan Sunday, June 15th 9:00 am • 4:00 pm Kantor, Yochi Briskman, Yisroel Lamm, Steve Levine, Yitzy Braun and Shabsi Parnes are just a few Aish HaTorah New York Center, 313 West 83rd Street of the talented musicians out to help a brother in Presented by some of Aish Ha Torah's top tundraisers. need. Topics include: 5 habits of highly effective fundraisers • Reaching the donor 7 Needless to say, this is only one of the many ways Jewish musicians, singers and actual songs have been of your dreams• The fundamentals of fund raising used to raise badly needed funds for important caus­ •The A,B,Cs of how to run a successful event es. There aren't many organizations who can claim Jewish musicians had nothing to do with their suc­ Seating is limited cess, whether from singing at concerts to actually Call Frieda for an application@ 212-579-1388 digging into their own pockets.

---__, ______34 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 Eliyahu Mayer First Fruits Shavuos Musings

"Pretty impressive. This must have taken a tremendous amount of work to put together:' "That's over six years and hundreds Shavuos is of hours of work you're holding there. Habikkurim, a reference to the mitzva of You have no idea how many revisions I bringing Bikkurim (the first of each of had to make. I can't believe it's finally the Seven Species of produce to ripen) in print. Uh, go easy with the pages. This made the day I took over this business. to the Beis Hamikdash. Since these fruits is my first copy. I'll get more in a few You wouldn't expect me to put that dol­ could be brought starting from Shavu­ weeks; but right now that's my only one:' lar in the bank, would you? It's too spe­ os, the Yorn Tov was also called Chag cial for me to deposit." Habikkurim. *** As the Mishna writes, "How are "Leibie, this is quite a place you've got *** Bikkurim separated? A man would go here. How's business?" "Mommy, how come all of our baby down into his field and see [the first] fig "Baruch Hashem, I can't complain. pictures are fuzzy? Why aren't they that ripened, [the first] cluster of grapes What can I do for you?" clearer like the more recent ones we that ripened, [or] pomegranate that "Nothing really. I just wanted to drop have?" ripened; he would tie a string [around by and wish you hatzlacha on your new "Tzaddik'le, we didn't have such a the fruit] and say, 'Behold, these are store." good camera in those days. Today we Bikkurim"' (Bikkurim 3:1). These first fruits were then brought to the Beis Hamikdash in special baskets and formally presented to the Kohanim with much simcha and celebration. B' avonoseinu harabbim- due to our many sins - we no longer have the opportunity to perform this beautiful mitzva. All we can do today is yearn for the rebuilding of the Beis Hamikdash and try to imagine what it would feel like to present the Kohein with our first fruits. *** ''Aaron, what are you carrying in that briefcase? It looks like it must weigh half a ton." "Oh, hi, Meir. Have you got a minute? I can)t wait to show you what I've got here." Aaron reaches into his oversized brief­ case and pulls out a newly-bound, intim­ idating textbook. "Here;' he says, thrust­ ing the volume into Meir's hands. "Take a look. It's my only copy. I just got it today from the publisher. What do you think?" ---··---- Eliyahu Mayer is a New York-based writer. His "What Counts During Sefird' appeared in the May;96 J.O.

The Jewish Observer, May 1997 35 have a much better one. And ... uh, did "Malka, isn't she a beauty?" and stuff. It would get lost. Why not use you wipe your hands before you start­ "Oh) gorgeous." it to put a slice on everyone's plate of ed looking at those pictures?" "I picked it today, so you could cut chopped liver? That way we can all savor "Oh, sure. But how come you're it up for the salad for Shabbos. The first the unadulterated flavor of our first always so worried that someone's going tomato of the season from our garden. tomato this summer." to mess up these pictures?" rm so excited." "Tzaddik'le, these are the first pictures "For a salad, you really need toma­ *** I have of you and your brothers and sis­ toes that are a bit firmer. Otherwise the ow suppose we had to bring the ters. If anything ever happened to salad gets too watery. Uh,. . .I'm not sure first copy of our latest book, the them, I could never replace them." this one would be good for the salad:' N first dollar we earned at our new "You know, you're right. It wouldn't store, the first photos of our children, *** get enough attention in all that lettuce or even the first tomato from our backyard garden, to present to the Kohein in the Beis Hamikdash. Would we be able to part with these prized pos­ MozesonfMalinowski Advertising (201)801-0101 sessions so easily? Probably not. Was it any easier for the Jewish farmer to part with his first fruits dur­ ing the time of the Beis Hamikdash? He had to plow his field (without a tractor) in the fall, pray for rain in the winter, and then guard his delicate crops from a host of predators in the spring. Was he any less excited to see the very first ripening of the fruits of his labor? But when he came into the Beis Hamikdash and recited the Vidui Ma'as­ er, which reminded him that everything he has he owes to the kindness of Hashem, perhaps it made it a little eas­ ier. For then he was reminded of his • indebtedness to Hashem for all of his good fortune, and that his donation of Bikkurim was but a relatively small token of the gratitude he should feel towards Hashem. Although we do not have the Beis Hamikdash today, we can nevertheless take advantage of the opportunity of Shavuos to reflect upon the lesson of Bikkurim. Don't we also owe everything we have to Hashem? Shouldn't we also dedicate the "first fruits" of our time and ener­ gy to Torah and mitzvos? Shouldn't we The Shalom Task Force ~~o devote the first hours of the day to Torah, Abuse Hotline is endorsed by ;~~ the first opportunity during a lunch break to Tehillim, or the first chunk of leading Orthodox Rabbonim. ,,."'~"'.f-.FO~ free time to chessed ... rather than leav­ ing them for last? Confidential Hotline 718 337 3700 If we do dedicate our first efforts to Shamayim, then hopefully next year, we Do it for yourself. Collect calls accepted. will be zocheh to bring Bikkurim to the Do it for your children. Beis Hamikdash, in Yerushalayim. •

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on our sleeve for all to see. Our contri­ bution to Torah, and our demands for Lehavdil spiritual excellence in chinuch and busi­ ness - none of this can erase the p'gam Does a baal teshuva ever cross the great divide (defect) from our neshamos. The fact that we still have connections, whether that separates him or her from those who had the familial, commercial, or creative, with the world of tuma is proof of our good fortune to be born to observant parents? unworthiness to be accepted into the inner sanctum of the Really Frum. We don't mind being the Zevulun to Facing Judgment, Criticism, and Irritation for creative self-expression would have your Yissachar, as long as this relation­ to find more conservative outlets. Much ship is one of mutual respect. Instead, e were walking along a quiet ashamed, I thought to myself, "My child our medical, legal, and financial knowl­ suburban street one Shabbos is still in utero, with at least five more edge, though useful, brand us as some­ W afternoon when the topic of years before s/he enters the system:' what suspect. Our families, our homes, shidduchim came up. I began to extol the Because I was so eager to please I did not our ideals, are constantly scrutinized for virtues of a close friend of my husband, give voice to my conflict. I did not ask evidence of treifus, impurity and inabil­ asking if perhaps the Rebbetzin knew of to be given time to grow in my obser­ ity to really leave behind our decadent a suitable Bais Yaakov graduate. The vance, gradually taking on more of the past. The psychology textbooks on our Rebbetzin turned to me, and, without "uniform;' integrating it slowly into my bookshelves, the swathe of computer­ realizing the pain she caused, said personality. In my rush to embrace printouts in our bathroom - these are instinctively, "But he's a baa/ teshuva." Orthodoxy, I had taken on too many signs of our incipient descent into the I recoiled from the implications of things too quickly. Enveloped in the netherworld of immorality and idol­ her words - yes, baruch Hashem we serenity of my last trimester, what I worship. Can we really be observant if have seen the light, it's wonderful to have wanted more than anything was some we make use of the secular wisdom? new energy flowing into the community, "time-out" to become myself again. Her Shouldn't the Torah be the font to but to have you marrying our daugh­ concern for me had a rough edge, and which we turn in •lie times of doubt? ters (or our sons) is beyond the pale. All all I could think, after our farewells had And what of the bittul To·ah involved my reasoning - he was not conceived been said, was how glad I was to be in such dubious undertakings as stay­ in tahara, he has internalized too many escaping the claustrophobic conformi­ ing abreast of the current developments outside influences, etc. - did not dull ty she demanded of me. in quantum physics? Is it really so the pain of such collective rejection. important to know what Muslim fun­ An earlier memory- saying good­ Functioning in a Stratified Culture damentalist are up to in Algeria? Sure­ bye to a teacher before leaving for chutz ly seeking all this information can't be laAretz. I run up the stairs towards her, his division into baal teshuva "Us" for the sole purpose of kiruv. carrying my first pregnancy with excite­ versus Observant from Birth ment, confidence and joy. I'm wearing T"Them" is even more manifest in a flowing dress, chosen more for com­ the Land of Israel. This is a culture UncleMofs~y, ... fort than style, and matching scarf founded upon stratification, and the reli­ ~~rdedtai Ben David, ensemble. As she turns to face me, I see gious realm is no exception. My husband =!~d ~th er top•of·the-line her expression register judgment, crit­ and I had always dreamed of making icism, and irritation. The first words out aliya, expecting naively to be welcomed f!wis~ eJttetta.iners of her mouth pry apart the chasm I have into the unity of Kial Yisroel. Because are available ..· been so desperate to keep closed, "You everything here is filtered through such to\Tlsit ..... ·.·· look so baa[ teshuvish:' To which I fee­ an exacting prism) the component parts s~tiottslyill bly reply, "But I am." are all the more divided into their cat­ children She proceeded to admonish me that egories of knitted kip pa, streimel, peyos, lhllfi!tsfu my child would be the only one in his sheitels, snoods, working, learning, f'J\11~ school to have such a strange looking Chareidi, Mizrachi. We had expected 'IOl:Wl ""6 . . . ~ ~-, __ ~,fnh mommy. I would have to start dressing these divisions -we were not, howev­ Hhmwpriljemunb)i like the mature woman I was. My need er, prepared for the unqualified segre­ Agllil>ll.1'""11>1Amdi> ... ' • 11\~J~~,f~,, ,,_,_,,,:,, -',_>:;' .j,.'!,,_,.;,: gation of the wanna-be from the always­ SUir;t-Dlrtg-~tu:6-°-n~ lj Mrs. Minsk lives in a Chareidi community in Harei were. To be a baa[ teshuva in this ,1o__ sef-llP~n:~-~1ll1en~~~ -;-( i:_ . "'I- .. Yehuda. This ls her first appearance in these pages {il~)79,1-9000:£xt:,15-•Al·fj 9;5_ """'f" society is to wear our parents' apostasy

The Jewish Observer, May 1997 39 t could be argued that we need access PINCH.AS 1\1:1.A.NDEL to the secular world to aid us in our Over 45 years experience in Kvura in Eretz Yisrael I occupations. Nevertheless, even if we Personal responsibility throughout service - NO AFFILIATES were to render our professional services Originator of the present method - BEWARE OF IMPOSTERS solely to our own community, our neigh­ Highly recommended by Gedolai Hador- Here and in Eretz Yisrael bors may still prevent their children from 1569-47th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11219 entering our homes. True, our associa­ Day & Night: phone: (718) 851-8925 tions with the non-frum world may have deleterious effects on our offspring. But lVP'Y.lITT!llJNj? Vl"i' - l'i:J 1Nl n1Y.ll1)) '1l!l it may also enhance other aspects of their Chesed Shel EMES with Mesiras Nefesh ... as understood and practiced chinuch, which appear to need strength­ by one active in the industry for more than half a century. ening in the wider Chareidi community: - TAHARAS HANUTAR SHOULD NEVER BE COMMERCJAUZED - Ahavas Yisroel towards secular Jews (I mean, Bubby and Zaidy are still good peo­ ple, they just don't yet observe all of Hashem's commandments); judging other people favorably; a desire to be mekarevthose who are far from the Path. Moreover, living with parents who are constantly striving to measure up to peo­ ple like the Chofetz Chaim, Rav Elchonon Wasserman, Rav Moshe Feinstein '7"Y?, is a greater gift than just adorning the walls of our living room with these self-same gedolim. Teaching them that these people are capable of changing their middos, that teshuva is possible, this is our mesora that we are bequeathing to them. Both sides have so much to offer. Could we not meet half way? I will continue to respect your tenacity in pre­ serving the Tradition. Could you, in turn, please appreciate and respect my (J:~PJ.tESl-IES has pioneered in parnossa generating skills in\•; integrity and courage? And in this way, v:e· ~~mpoters, special education and accounting, and has.1>7 may we bring achdus and chessed into : c%' i~programto the highest accredited professiona!Jev"Js • the realm of the possible. • ·.MORES HES has become famous for its handcrafted YemeH: ~~,_,jy:;--/-':'--)tjt~r,-s~mfnary conventions ,, ., - f::::::~;;:

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---· ------40 The Jewish Obse,-,er, May 1997 V'YESH 0MRIM ... AND THERE ARE THOSE THAT SAY. .. "

that time, including Rabbi Aharon Toras Emes: Kotler and Rabbi Moshe Feinstein 7"~. a decision was made to rely on the Rema in Orach Chaim 551: l 0, who permitted the eating of meat at a siyum during the A True Siyum? Nine Days. Besides granting the children the balanced menu which they so sore­ Of Menus and Curricula of any concern when the same camp ly needed along with a pleasing camp served franks and french fries.) experience - also sorely needed - the ummer camps serve as an exten­ opportunity to emphasize the greatness sion of our chinuch efforts. We How the Situation Arose of Torah learning was utilized. Sselect a camp for our children A careful study of the Shulchan based on the caliber of its staff, its rep­ riginally, this practice was sanc­ Aruch and its commentaries (see Mish­ utation and ruach. There is one practice tioned by America's leading na Berum, ibid) clearly indicates that this engaged in by even the finest Torah-ori­ 0 gedolim. Based on conversa­ ented camps, however, that is a carry­ tions with people who were involved in over from the past which deserves the early days of American frum camp­ Synagogue& revisitation and reevaluation. ing, I have pieced together the history. Every year, during the Nine Days cul­ Under the guidance of such great School Executives minating with Tisha B'Av, I receive the mechanchim (Torah educators) as the You are cordially invited to hear about the same report from my daughters: A rabbi late Reb Shraga Feivel Mendlowitz 'r~, comes into the dining hall, mumbles many children of the I 940's and I 950's NEWEST FUND-RAISING DYNAMIC some words into the microphone which were literally taken from the streets and nobody understands, and they all sit placed in yeshivas. This nurtured their rrLet Us Show You down to afleishigdinner like any other. Yiddishkeit for ten months of the year. At home, my wife works hard to balance Faced with the potential threat of los­ How To Take It To milchig/pareve menus so that we prop­ ing them back to the streets over the erly observe the words of the Rema to long, hot summers, the original Camp The BARTER BANK abstain from meat during these days. Mesivta, Camp Yeshiva, Camp Agudah - by inviting members, donors, I have been affiliated in various and others were fouhded to host these sponsors, and friends to donate capacities with many camps, and my youths in a positive summer environ­ talmidim attend many others; the ment. Girls' camps were quick to follow. merchandise, services, etc. that reports from the field are the same. Our A generation was saved. turn into the goods and services camps, which boast of their learning Besides being starved spiritually, you need tor your institution." programs and adherence to rules of tze­ many of these young people came from WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4, 1997 nius, are cutting corners and compro­ homes that were unable to provide mising our children's chinuch nonethe­ much in the way of physical nourish­ 3:00-4:30 PM less with these so-called siyumim! In ment. Poverty was still common among Ballroom at Masoras Bais Yaakov some situations the children will tell you: the new immigrants; often the yeshiva's "The director tells some kids to make a lunch was the child's main meal. 1395 Ocean Avenue (at Avenue I) quick siyum or he does it himself In those days, very few options were Brooklyn, NY because it's easier for the cook to make available to maintain a non-meat menu Presenters: fleishig." As a kitchen staffer, I recall being for a week. The multiple, prepared, RABBI PESACH LERNER Executive Vice President. told to ask the cook which days he wants frozen delights that line our store's freez­ National Council of Young Israel us to "make the siyum"! This past sum­ ers did not exist. Some cheese, bread, Who has successtutty turned tens of mer, the second trip of a major girls' potatoes, plain noodles and, on rare thousands of barterdolfars into cash value camp commenced in the week of Tisha occasion, high-priced fish were the LOIS DALE President & CEO, BARTER ADVANTAGE, INC. B'Av. The girls were welcomed with a only choices. If the Kosher yeshiva Computerized network system fleishig meal, despite the stringency of camp could not provide a varied menu matching goods and services the actual week of the ta'anis. The girls and keep these children happy and excit­ RUTH FOLGER WEISS Partner, Ad-Lib Unlimited, NY were told that the decision was made on ed about camp, in short order they Advertising and Marketing the grounds of "nutrition." (Was that would likely become discontented and Sponsored by the return to where they came from ... a loss NATIONAL COUNCIL OF YOUNG ISRAEL The author of the above article, a senior mechanech To Re-serve Your Place Please Call: in the New York City area, requested that his name to the Jewish community. 1 be withheld In conjunction with other gedolim of (212) 929-1525 ext. 100

The Jewish Observer, May 1997 41 Considering a move toMOIVSEY?

For careful attention to your is not the ideal course of action. Like a individual needs, call us today! bris, if the siyum just so happens to fall out during these days, the actual cele­ (914) 354-8445 brants and those normally invited may partake of meat and wine. It's almost uncanny that we don't hear of too many camp-wide siyumim outside of the Nine Days, nor do we hear of Bais Yaakovs celebrating the completion of Specializing in Competitive Pricing and Superior Service Mesechtos at any other time of the year. Personal & Commercial • Life • Group Health • Auto Home • Property & Casualty • Liability In the Light of Current Reality... 112-07 75th Avenue, Forest Hills, NY 11375 718-575-0312 • 212-228-4900 • Fax 212-228-207'5 n many occasions, I have heard Rabbi Shimon Schwab ':>"llT Odeclare this practice as "scan­ dalous" when children of his Kehilla would tell him of it. There was a time when a specific situation arose, and the Gedolim of that generation addressed it. Nowadays, Baruch Hashem, the reality has changed. Malnutrition and lack of avail­ ltl£' y popular demand and as a result of + Excellent Mesivtha Program with fully able variety of foods are no longer issues. D our continuing growth, we are accredited Secular Studies Dept., featur­ Virtually nobody will go "off the derech" delighted to notify parents who are seeking ing small shiurim which are a hallmark of a Yeshiva that will make the important differ­ our Yeshiva and are designed to foster a for lack of meat. Yet, we content ourselves ence for their son that registration Is cur­ closer relationship between the students, to satisfy our own convenience in a man­ rently in progress for the 1997-98 school the Rebbeim and teachers, as well as ner less than ideal. Can we still justify this year. We wish to recommend the following Rebbeim and teachers who give dose practice in light of current reality? outstanding features of our Yeshiva: persona! attention to the needs of each Mesivtha student and hrs parents, in Every camp is staffed with talented Highly acclaimed Early Childhood + order to develop each talmid into a head counselors and activity directors. Program, under the direction of our motivated and successful student. renowned Early Childhood Coordinator. Their gifts can be utilized to develop cre­ Please note, registration for our ative ways to serve a week of milchigs: + Outstanding Elementary School and acclaimed Early Childhood Program is sandwich nights, plan-a-menu con­ Yeshiva Katana Vv'here the classes are small almost closed. Applicants will be: tests, supper bars, etc. If there are to be so that each student can receive individual­ accepted on a first come/first served ized attention and reinforcement from both basis. siyumim, be sure to schedule some dur­ his Rebbi and his teacher. ing Tamuz and after Tisha B'Av, as well (and invite the cook too!). RABBI SHMUEL FISHELIS RABBI STANLEY BRONFELD MRS. RACHEL ZLOTOWITZ If we are to raise a dor muchshar, an Principal, Principal, Early Childhood Coordinator upright generation) ready to serve Torah Studies Department General Studies Dept. K-2nd grades Hashem in the best possible fashion, we must be careful to start with the basics: 145 EAST BROADWAY, NEW YORK, NY• (convenient "f" train at corner) Chosmo shel Hakadosh Baruch Hu emes for more 1nformat1on call 212-964-2830 - the signet of Hashem is Truth! • lf you are thinking of moving for Jewish Growth Opportunities , , .

Full Service Community BEGIN THINKING MILWAUKEE! Total Torah Community • Healthy job Market The Torah Community Cheder • • Affordable Housing of Bais Yakov • • A Nurturing Community Rabbi Michel Twerski invites your interest Yeshiva Gedola • • Leaming Opportunities Sherman Park Jewish Initiative Kolle! • • Community Activities 1-800-226-3129 Mikveh • BEGIN THINKING MILWAUKEE BEGIN THINKING MILWAUKEE BEGIN THINKING MILWAUKEE BEGIN THINKING \11LWAUKEE

42 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 SECOND LoOKS Adam Winston

AGemach Loan Fund A New in memory of loved ones merits them eternal "pleasantness 'and light to the Neshoma in Gan Eden" Jewish School (Chafetz Chaim) To establish a o•'7T ,Tlll Perpetual Honorary or ii! Memorial Fund at one Network in Israel of our 14 branches in Eretz Yisroel, contact: OzerDalim OZER DALIM 220 West Nineteenth Street Israel at a Turning Point fill out response forms asking for help New York, NY 10011 (212) 924-0023 in making serious commitments to he country of Israel is at a turn­ mitzva observance. Kolle/ Avreichin1 go ing point. The older generation, door-to-door asking non-observant DIGEST OF MBFORSHIM Twho at least had fond memories families if "they would like to learn of observant grandparents, is being Torah together:' Surprisingly, given the '"',i'r, in::i '"'i'r, replaced by a youth that is showing the anti-religious portrayal of the classic ""Yl ,)lt)i,.IC ?.Kir.>tu l";f,;rl:) long-term impact of a secularist ideol­ Israeli, very few doors are closed in their Al11ilableat ogy. Drug use among teens has sky­ faces. In fact, mitzva observance is LEKUTEI rocketed. "There has been a dramatic often discussed within the first few cJo Yitzchok Rosenberg increase in drug use among youth. It's weekly meetings and genuine progress 10 West47th Street, Room 503 not a phenomenon any more, it's an epi­ is made, including keeping of Shabbas, New York, NY 10036 demic!" (Chairman of the National Par­ Kashrus, taharas hamishpacha and the (212) 719-1117 ents ·Association - Dec. 26, '95 willingness to send their children to 20 Volumes on 'lbrah, Perek, Jerusalem Past archives). Cults and teen Torah schools. Medrash, Megllos and Talmud. violence are on the rise. One in six boys Proceeds of sales distributed brings some kind of weapon to school. Meeting the Growing Demand a_mong Veshivos and used for Tens of thousands of young Israeli adults reprinting of volumes out-of-print are reported to gather on the beaches of he high rate of success in outreach PRICE: $8.00 Pl!R VOWMI! India for drug trading and use. A very has placed great strains on the Pirkei A vos available large percentage of secular teachers Texisting kiruv organizations. They polled said that they would rather have are hard-pressed to find the resources not been born Jewish. The worst of to meet the demand. One of the most NOTICE OF NON· decadent secularism has infected the glaring difficulties is the lack of schools DISCRIMINATORY POLICY Israeli populace. for children from secular homes. AS TO STUDENTS Parents are scared. Officials recognize This is due to the great success rate the problem, but do not know how to of Chinuch Atzmai - almost all of their Mesivta of Greater Los Angeles .admits respond. There appears to be no solu­ students are now religious and many qualified men of the Jewish faith of any tion in sight. Chareidi. Though Chinuch Atzmai race, color, national and ethnic origin, to On the other hand, kiruv (outreach) schools do take children from non­ all of the rights, privileges, programs and is blossoming. More and more Israelis observant backgrounds, existing parents activities generally accorded or made express a desire to return to a life of full often object to accepting non-observant available to smdenl' at the school. It observance. Rabbi Uri Zohar speaks at children, as they do not want their chil­ does not discrimillate on the basis of public lectures sponsored by Lev dren to be influenced by the secular race, color, national and ethnic origin in L' Achim to crowds of 200-1000 people, youths. SHUVU has done excellent the administration of its educational poli­ often several times a week. Ten to 20% work in providing Torah schools for cies, admissions policies, scholarship Russians. But what about the rest of the and loan programs, and athletic and Rabbi Winston, who lives in the Neve Yaakov sec~ Israeli children? tion of Jerusalem, is a free-lance writer. other school-administered programs. Picture the reaction of a family after

------··--·-·------··- The Jewish Observer, May 1997 43 they have attended one of the famous described it: "I was working with a nice all places, Yerushalayim Ir Hakodesh! Arachim seminars. They have decided family. She was Ashkenazi. He was Who is at fault? to start keeping mitzvos and want to Sephardi. We were making slow, but Are the hard-pressed kiruv organi­ send their children to a Torah school. steady progress. They had agreed to start zations to blame? Is a successful Chin­ Yet, to their dismay, no one is willing to keeping the laws of taharas hamishpacha. uch Atzmai at fault- for succeeding too accept them, as their level of observance One of their children was also interest­ well? Clearly we must open Torah is not yet on the level of the families ed in attending a Torah school. But to schools throughout Eretz Yisroel in any already enrolled in the local Torah my horror, I found that there were no place that needs them. sd:ool. "We are willing to change our Torah schools on my city that take chil­ lives so much - but they still won't dren from non-observant homes!" The Growing Deficit accept us!" Having no choice, they leave Was this city some distant, isolated their children in the public school sys­ place? No. It was in Yerushalayim. t is estimated that over fifty com­ tem. Imagine: A Jewish child could not munities in Israel require a boys' and As one volunteer with Lev L' Achim receive a proper Torah education in, of I girls' Torah school. The schools must be attractive, have a high acade­ mic level, and help children and their Look How Close Quality parents to discover the wealth of Torah Judaism. Medical Care & Special With a mandate from Rabbi Yosef Shalom Eliyashiv N"'O'?\?, joined by Sensitivity Really Is! Rabbi Michoel Yehuda Lefkowitz, Rabbi Yehuda Leib Steinman, Rabbi Shmuel Whether you live in Canarsie, Crown Auerbach, Rabbi Chaim Pinchas Shein­ Heights, Flatbush, Sheepshead Bay or berg l>l"1"'nl, and a North American Williamsburg, you're only minutes away Rabbinic Board (in formation) con­ from quality health care. With our new state-of-the-art glatt sisting of the Bostoner Rebbe, Rabbi kosher kitchen and special sensitivity to Shmuel Kamenetzky (Rosh HaYeshiva, the needs of Orthodox Jews, we're continuing our Philadelphia) and Rabbi Yaakov Wein­ long tradition of service to the Jewish community of Brooklyn berg (Rosh Ha Yeshiva Ner Israel, Balti­ and elsewhere. Supported by an exceptional staff, including many who live in the more) w"'7\?, the New Jewish School community, you can be sure that every need from midwifery to complex surgery will Network in Israel has been formed. Its be in accordance with Jewish law and tradition. Quality health care begins with our purpose is to ensure that (;"P:J) every doctors. Five of Brookdale's doctors Jewish child in Israel be able to receive were named among the nation's best a proper Torah education. An ambitious by American Health Magazine. Ten goal, but would we permit ourselves to were I isted among the best doctors strive for anything less? by New York Magazine, and 58 physicians were included in the These schools will not only be places prestigious Castle Connolly where children can begin to taste the Publication, "How To Find the Best sweetness of Torah, but also serve as Doctors in the New York Metro educational centers for the whole com­ Area". munity. Special lectures, seminars, pro­ And we're still improving! grams and classes for parents will help Brookdale is in the midst of a major $200 million modernization pro­ bring the life-giving force of Torah to gram which will continue its trailblazing medical cities throughout Israel. care into the next century. If quality medical care is what you seek, Brookdale is committed to stay one step above the rest. hat does the future hold for Israel? Will it continue a Brookdale-the hospital with the championship team! W decline into decadent mate­ FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT, rialism and even become anti-reli­ gious? Or will the embers of kedusha THE BROOKDALE UNIVERSITY hidden in the hearts of our Israeli HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER brethren be given a chance to burst forth into a magnificent flame? It seems the ONE BROOKDALE PLAZA, BROOKLYN, N.Y. 11212 •CALL 718/240-5251 Hashgacha has put this historic decision VISIT OUR WEB SITE AT HTIPJ/BHMC.DS5.COM into our hands. •

44 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 Rabbi Nesanel Kasnet

on the Torah and Holidays (in Hebrew), How would you like and Mafte' ach leSifrei Rav Tzaddok BO s HaKohen zt"~ a comprehensive index to to change.andimprove the works of R' Tzaddok (also in the world? IN Hebrew). And now, for the English­ Which mitzvah topic speaking and lay audience, he has pro­ would youlike to focus REV duced Landscapes of the Spirit. The concept behind this sefer is as on now? timely and delightful as it is novel. We would send you some material Drawn from the teachings of the Ariza/ and suggestions to help. and Maharal and from writings of the Mitzvah Consultants great Sefardic Kabbalist R' Avraham Yeshiva Fund, Box 82 Azulia, it states that just as Bretz Yisroel Staten Island, NY I 0309 is - among all countries - uniquely

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The Jewish Observer, May 1997 45 ----·- --··--, suited for a life of holiness and spiritu· TAPES FROM ] ality, so has each city in Bretz Yisroel a lWlBl AVIGDOR MIU.ER : distinctive character, which promotes a , Anyone Wishing To Buy I specific type of spirituality. Thus, Yeri· Il Tapes Whether One T- Or I ! Many Caa Order from I cho performs a different function than S.Y.K. does Yerushalayim or Chevron. One city I, P.0.B. 190797 BroolRosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva N-o)':w, Rosh Yeshiva of Torah~ Sha'ar HaTorah Ore and Morah Hora' ah of Kiryat Mattesdorl

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46 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 us, care for all our needs, and teach us proper values and good sense, parents deserve our complete respect. Even CHEVRA OSEH CHESED someone who denies Hashem and OF AGUDATH ISRAEL Divine reward and punishment will BURIAL PLOTS IN accept this precept. In fact, such a per­ son will find it particularly easy to ERETZYISROEL honor his parents, since he lives only for Interment in a Shomer Shabbos Beis this world, wherein his parents have Olam near Beis Shemesh given him all that he has. Hence, it is Please phone or write to: not surprising that someone like Dama Chevra Oseh Chese

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------· ------48 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 customs, and their historical bases and notes that shoes allow a person to walk then, is an intimation of our desolation philosophical underpinnings, of the wherever he wishes. Devoid of shoes, in a world without a Mikdash. Bein HaMeitzarim period (the Three however, one is dependent on existing, This sefer provides an excellent prepa­ Weeks). In addition, he has provided well-paved roads. His world becomes ration for the Three-Weeks period. May excerpts and their explanations from limited, his esteem diminished, and he our scrupulous, informed and heartfelt Megillas Eicha and the Kinnos. Issues loses his sense of personal freedom. observance of its laws and customs has­ dealt with herein include the Holocaust, Going about unshod on Tisha B'Av, ten the long-awaited redemption. II exile and redemption, and the rules of Jerusalem and Eretz Yisroel in our lives. Rabbi Press very much makes the point - via halachic dicta as well as aggadic material - that while Tisha B'Av is the most sorrowful and desolate day in the Jewish calendar, it is also called a mo'ed; and it is the inevitability of redemption suggested by such designation that allows the reader to come away from this book uplifted as well as edified. P\r.>1DJ:J '' ov iJ'J>VlJ moll The Future Festival is filled with fas­ Ol' ,n, cinating insights, culled from the clas­ 190 sic sources (Talmud, Midrash, Rabbinic and Chassidic literature) and contem­ 1190 ppnn porary ones as well (prominent roshei n:>Ol'Ji1 i~1 'J:i 'n' yeshiva and rabbonim such as the o":mim r.i"PlO n"!lD P1r.>!ln 111 ':>l1 nn1;J:J':>J:J1 0 1im':>? n:l1 n':>l1in Shapiro and Rabbi Shlomo Brevda). We o•,mv 161b"no 715-972-7963 :'»'Jb lK •1Jm ?1K are taught, for instance, that Noach sent the dove from the ark on the seventeenth day of Tammuz (according to one r.------, opinion). The Midrash explains tharthe 1Hot Summer Travel Destinations: 1 dove symbolizes Israel: Just as the dove iNew Torah Horizons! i "found no resting place for the sole of I I I I her foot;' so Israel in exile will find no I •7Ju B"""""4n Tope Libtwry b dil'etn ins~ witll topia kl suit wuUJ inleralB. It's convmi.mt 1UU1 I resting place. But just as the dove I tu:t:aaibk. I nally mjoy listming lo tM tapo, They 1ltllh M:J OfU! and o: half Jw.r driwt to tuulfrt111t wo1* a I I pkaaure. I loolcfonwud ewry wuk to llu JSew tapo. The 14pa t&1'e g1*Ufor beginnen Md acholan 41liU.,. I "returned to him in the ark," so Israel I I will be redeemed and return from exile I The MOlhe and Esther Brandmwi MllRKlrilil Tape Libnfy's comprehensive and profound lectures address! I" most fascinating array of topics. Ttiis Summlll' season, t•e advantage of thi9 unique Tonih resource. 1 I Each tape costs $5.50 (includes postage and handling). Please send your name, address, this form, and I to their land. 1Pavment to The ~mi~ Nght Kohl. Yeshiv.s Bais HaMidnt8h LaTonih, 7135 N Carpenter Ave, Skokie, IL.J 160077, For more mformat!On please call (773) 267-6963. A catalog of our ovw 650 t..,_, including our other ongoingj In explanation of the prohibition lse~ias w_iU be sent with all or~!'"' and upon request. You may also access the cets;log on the Web courtesy of Cong.I IBa1s Tafita: http://www.geodties.oomlHesrdand/Plain./6147. Now, the very first time anywhere, Oaf Yomi in Tmlmudl against consuming meat and wine dur­ JV...... ,. tapes available in English! Recent titles include: J ing the Nine Days (in addition to the INadt b'Machashewi: Shmuel. Mkhshand zotw on the~ I dictum: "There is no rejoicing without I Rabbi Yoeef Gavriel hchhoteir Rabbi Avraham Kivele\litz I IDNB 95. Chap. 1: Why Did Oovid Kill Him1 OMP 58. Breaking the Monotony fBereishisJ I meat or wine"), the following thought 1DNB 96. Chap. 1: Kinna on Shaul & Yonultll DMP 59. Quoting the Raven {Noachl 1DNB 97. Chap. 1: The.Ralbaa'• "To'aluyos'" OMP 60. Shechina in a Box llech Lacha) 1I is adduced: Consuming these items at I ONB 98. Chap. 2: Dov1d in Chevron DMP 61. Prisoner of Justice (Vayeira) I 1DNB 99. Chaps. 2-3: Trye Game DMP 62. Avrohom's Oaught• IChayei Sarah! I this time is inappropriate, for they call IDNB 100. Chap. 3: Palt1 ben lavish OMP 66. Heir Unapparent (Vayeishav) I I ONB 101. Chap. 3: Assassination of Avner OMP 67. Snowfire (Chanukeh) I to mind the daily animal sacrifices and I DMP 68. Unvioleted Secret (Vayigash) I IContempor.y and Pnicticaf twedJa OMP 69. Staff end Serpent {Ve'eirel I wine libations that ceased with the I Rabbi Yoeef GevrMI 8-ihhofer DMP 70. Illumination from Darkness {Bo) I IOCH 187-0CH 188. (Two Tepes): OMP 71. Song Remains the Same (BeShalach) I destruction of the Temple. ID•'•• Torah in Halachic & ftNon-Helachicft Ataas OMP 72. Incongruous Oibbur (Yisrol l ocH 189. Baby Wipes & Disposable Diapers DMP 73. Twilight Wiii !Terume) And one final nugget: Regarding the Ion1 Shebbos DMP 74. Hatavah {Teztavehl 1I I · OMP 75. Two Feces of Eigel !Ki Tisa) 1 prohibition against wearing shoes on 1Emuna and Hashkafa DMP 76. Moshe's Secret {Pekudeil I 1Rabbi Yosef Gevriel 8dd1hof« OMP 77. The Enemy Within (Zachor) I Tisha B'Av, a contemporary scholar I DEH 119. longevity end Immortality OMP 78. Lacking Credentials lShamini) I I OEH 120. The Resurrection I IDEH 121. Astrology Y~mi 8-ad108 fblatt per tape by numbers) I IOEH 122. Male lllld Female Ri66i Yoset G•vrief Bec:hhof• I Rabbi Kasnett is a senior editor of the ArtScroll Sh as, IDEH 124. Tanya for Misnagdim §:g:!: j~~ §~~: :~o g:g::: ~- ~ l and is the author of three books of essays on Torah 1 12 ISpecialSeriea: Tefila OTY7.13-14 DTYB.16-18 OTY9.17·18 I thought: A Future and a Hope, Ancient Mountains !Rabbi Gershon Biez• Schaffel DTY10. 19·20 OTY11. 21-22 OTY12. 23-24 I Timeless Hills and Kayin and Hevel. f oLE 30. The Structure of Oavening DTY13. 26·28 0TY14. 27-28 OTY16. 29-30 I oLE 31. Birkos HaShachar & Pesukei DiZimra DTYlB. 31·32 OTY17. 33-34 OTY18. 36-37 1 1IDLE 32. Keri8S Shema DTYt9. 38-40 DTY20. 41-42 OTY21. 43-46 I1 1DLE 33. Shemoneh Esrei OTY22. 47-48 DTY23. 49-62 OTY24. 63·64 I ------L------J------·--·----·------The Jewish Observer, May 1997 49 obvious from the article, and from cate him. Even the rasha needs a chin­ those who know him personally, that he uch, hopefully to bring him back to speaks with true ahavas Yisroel. He is Torah. But each of the four sons needs genuinely interested in constructive a different answer. activism and many of his points are I can proudly say that I have many accurate (he does not need my haskama). talmidim who are currently in Lakewood However, I would like to share some and Brisk. And I can also say (maybe not experience that I had in the last 20 years so proudly) that I have many talmidim in chinuch on both sides of the fence - in full university programs - wearing EQUAL OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL, the very yeshivish and the more "modem:' a kippa sruga. The common thread that THOUGH NOT IN THE SAME SCHOOL I once heard from Rabbi Moshe binds them: I love each of them and I Soloveichik 7-:n, that, in the Hagadda, am very close to all of them. To the Editor: we say "Keneged arba'a banim dibra This, however, did not happen in one I read Rabbi Aisenstark's article," Fire Torah" - The Torah addresses every institution. Over the years I have been Drill;' in the Adar/March '97 issue. It is type of a son in terms of how to edu- a mechanech in different mosdos HaTorah (institutions). In many of our mosdos, there was no HAT PLUS necessity to speak about chalav Yisroel I I (positive), attending college and TV (negative). In other mosdos, I felt that I ~#1 Stop,~: should not speak about chalav Yisroel or college and TV. (We did have a cam­ • BORSALINO paign on these issues during Asseres Yemei Teshuva, though.) In one mo sad, •CLASSIC I encouraged the boys to finish a •PINELLI mesechta with a specific chavrusa after •STETSON Maariv (10:00 pm). In the other, I spoke about wearing your cap and tzitzis when you play ball in the gym. WE ALSO DRY CLEAN & RESHAPE HATS Here we discussed the Brisker derech (All work done on premises) halimud vs. the Ponevezer approach. And there we discussed the importance Please note our new address: of going to yeshiva and college at night 1368 Coney Island Avenue vs. full-time university, or the pitfalls of (718) 377-5050 social mixing with girls. Can you do both in one classroom? On the other hand, I fully agree that D'>'>n n,1n i1~'>'V'> in the very heimishe mosdos, we should YESHIVA TORAS CHAIM/DENVER teach tolerance and understanding of others; at the same time, we make cer­ With 30 years experience in providing an atmosphere for the serious Ben-Torah to grow and develop. Our high school program includes a secular studies program tain not to compromise k'chut hasa'ara, accredited by the North Central Association of School and Colleges. not even in a matter that makes a hair's Applications submitted with transcripts for the Mesivta and Bcis Medrash are being breadth of a difference. accepted for the Elul zman 5757 I would like to close my remarks with Appointments for interviews can be made by calling a quote from Reb Yaakov ., .. :IT that I 718-376-9400, or 303-629-8200 or (fax) 303-623-5949 heard on a tape. He underscored the The Mesivta is designed for the Yeshiva Bochur who: importance of teaching children the dif­ •wants to develop in Torah and Yiras Shomayim •\'.'ants a strong Kesher with Rebbeim who really care •exemplifies a true Ben-Torah •can maintain a strong academic level ferences between requirements of • contributes to the Ruach of camaraderie • will confurm to the supervised dormitory regulations halacha, minhagim, and discretionary • i.s interested in getting dose persona! attention • at the Beis Medrash level, is proficient in making a "Leinus" chumros. And that one should never look down at someone who doesn't keep or YESHIVA TORAS CHAIM TAL.MUDICAL SE.MINARYJDENVER understand one's personal chumros and 1555 Stuart Street, P.O. Box 40067, Denver, CO 80204 minhagim. Rabbi Yitzchok Wasserman, Rosh YeJhiva Rabbi Yisroel Meir Kagan, Rosh YeJhiva NAME WITHHELD BY REQUEST Rabbi Yehoshua Gutman, Menahel Toronto

50 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 AUTHOR'S RESPONSE: "onain" (an aveil on the first day of his would it cost to have it repaired?" mourning period) [A Kingdom of Rabbi Yisroel Salanter was horrified I fully concur with the letter writer; Kohanim p. 307]. "There are words that when he heard of this incident and he schools can specialize and target stu­ are as the piercings of a sword" (Mish­ remarked: "The great leaders of the pre­ dents of specific levels of ability and lei 12,18). vious generation, who are now rejoic­ degrees of frumkeit. At the same time, There was an incident that tran­ ing in Gan Eden, are being taken to task however, all children should be guided spired in the l 840's when a poor shoe­ for this incident. They are held to learn to respect differences and maker came upon great wealth. With accountable for not educating their understand one another. The "chalav his new status, he celebrated his daugh­ generation to the point that this Yisroel kid" should not consider the ter'' wedding in style, to the chagrin of episode should not have occurred." "staam chalav youngster" a sheigetz, nor some of the wealthy townspeople. At (Me'oros Hagedolim 163) should the latter view the former as a the chupa, a wealthy individual RABBI MOSHE GOLDBERGER fanatic. approached the bride's father and Staten Island, NY RABBI SHNEUR AISENSTARK inquired: "My shoe is torn, how much

RESPONSIBILITY OF"PLASTIC You can! Just call FRAMES" FATHER TO SPEAK UP ''I wish I could The Yitti Leibel To the Editor: Helpline. Your inspiring article entitled "Plas­ speak to a tic Frames" was brought to my attention HOURS: Monday-Friday ...... Sam -12pm by a chaver who said over the phone, Monday-Thursday ...... 8pm -1 lpm "You must read this article and then call frum therapist Sunday ...... 9am -12pm, 9pm -llpm me back." By the time I found my copy of The 718-HELP-NOW Jewish Observer (after asking my chil­ on the phone (718)435-7669 dren and wife, "Who had it last?" a few Chicago (800)HELP-023 times), I was curious. The article hit IT Lakewood ( 908) 363-10 I 0 home and did make me call back. Plus, without giving U.. Cleveland (888)209-8079 I insisted my wife read it A.S.A.P. and I For addiction problems call our addiction ' took it to make copies and share it with therapist, Wednesdays 11:30 to 1:30am X.Y.Z. etc. my name.'' For dedications call The issue of ono'as devarim (hurting 718-692-1578 others with words) is a very serious con­ cern and it should matter to all of us. "Rav Yochanon teaches us in the name of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai: hurting peo­ TH E RIGHT 'l'B&SPrtCL\LEDUCATION PROGRAM ple with words is worse than hurting •Is a nnique.full-timeYeshi\'llProgtrunf6r them monetarily... " (Bava Metzia 58b). learning disabled Children ofall levels, If three boys in a yeshiva were ~ges 7 and Up. ·•. .. •.· involved in stealing lunches, watches and • •Helps to pennanently comet learning money from their classmates, I'm sure disabilities ~nd its symptotris (induding • . the writer of the article would take a behavior) !hmnghtbe.. bighly· 11Cclaimed stand and work with the menahel of the Spedalized• Leaming Therapy. yeshiva, the rebbe'im and parents to deal . • llas a highly personlll to~cb with an iiidi; with the situation. Why does this issue vidulllized tbe~y pmgramfor ~acll child. not warrant the choice of"fighting the • Combines Torah llashkofu and curriculum battle" to change the tone of a yeshiva? witJ) the ,n~est: and, _rri,~l-in_riovative Why conclude a meaningful message of Spedal.EdUcation methods. self-improvement, caring and sensitiv­ WEARE NOW ACCEPT/NG REGISTRATION FOR OUR SUMMER PROGRAM & FOR THE '97-'98 SCHOOL TERM ity with "deciding to sidestep" an issue FOR MORE INFORMAi ION OR ~ rn1m CONSl"Lf\1 ION, PLEASE CALL• of vast importance? Rabbi A. Miller shlita writes that the THE SPECIAL TORAH EDUCATION PROGRAM word" ono'as" devarim is derived from (7:18) 339-5793

The Jewish Observer, May 1997 51 HELPING FILL THE "EMPTY PIT" INSURANCE BROKERS & CONSULTANTS Commercial, Industrial, Residential, Life & Health To the Editor: The article "A Pit Full of Emptiness," which I recently contributed to The Jew­ ish Observer (March '97), came from the heart, and evidently resonated with many of our readers. It was, for me, a humbling experience to witness the out­ • PROFESSIONAL SERVICE • pouring of love and concern which it • QUAL/7Y INSURANCE CARRIERS • elicited. If people had only sent a check, • COMPETITIVE PREMIUMS • that would have been nothing out of the ordinary, but most people went far beyond that. I have a huge pile of notes BA·"BARA GOLDGRABEN/HESHY SCHWEBEL on my desk which I can't bring myself to throw out and which, in as many ways as there are notes, testifies to the depth and breadth of Jewish caring. Es iz gut Orthodox Jewish tzu sein a Yid! (RABBI) MOSHE EISEMANN Social Service Agency Baltimore is searching for Shidduchim on TEHILLIM behalf of highly capable, fmm young CORRECTION ON CREDENTIALS OF men in their 30's. These young men IN DEPTH "ORTHODOX FEMINISM" SPEAKER have mild learning disabilities, are Presented by Rabbi Yitzchak Margareten stable and in long-term employment. Each Shiur {tape consists of two 45 min . To the Editor: Shiurim) illuminates the Your recent article on "Orthodoxy If you know of suitable young underlying theme of a women, please call (212) 252-3782. Perek of Tehillim and and Feminism" (April '97) misidentified • Information will be kept in explains it Posuk by Posuk. Rabbi Saul Berman on page 10. Rabbi In his unique and lucid style, Rabbi Y. Berman is a tenured associate professor strict confidence. Margareten will bring you closer to one of the cornerstones of our avodah. at Stern College for Women. He is not and never has been dean of the school. Distributed by: Im Hasefer (718) 377-0047 In addition, it goes without saying or call 1-800-213-6626 that individual faculty members such as Rabbi Berman speak for themselves and not for Stern College or Yeshiva Uni­ versity. The administration of Tomche Shabbos of DAVID ROSEN, Baro Park and Flatbush wishes to thank DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS YESHIVA UNIVERSITY AGUDATH ISRAEL or AMERICA New York City for extending much needed assistance to the poor of our communities. AUTHOR'S RESPONSE: Thanks to Agudath Israel's efforts, over

(Akiva Davidsen~· article, "From Station $1,220,000 to Station" (Feb. '97), recounted how he suc­ worth of emergency food has been donated to ceeded in disengaging himself from his Tomche Shabbos over the past several years. habit of listening to the radio to achieve a May ffashem bless the staff and administration of sense of quiet- both within and outside of Agudath Israel of America for becoming himself. A letter critical of Davidsen's seal­ the biggest single contributor to Tomche Shabbos in ing himself offfrom the potential benefits that its history. ride the radio airwaves, written by Wolf Committee - Tomche Shabbos Boro Park/t'latbush Karfiol, was published in the April '97)0 (p. 57) without including a respanse from the

52 The Jewish Observer, May 1997 i"'D:l

turning point. Israeli youth are becoming increasingly involved with cults, drugs and Send your contribution to: violence in the schools. Parents are scared, but don't know what to do. On the other hand, more and more Israelis are returning to a life of mitzvah observance. In North America: Two opposing directions. If we can answer their PO Box Brooklyn NY need for Judaism - we can prevent them from In Israel: becoming increasingly secularized - and even anti­ PO BOX 27312 religious. JERUSALEM 91272 ISRAEL TELEPHONE: 972-2-583-2447 The experience of the Kiruv (outreach) organiza­ FACSIMILE 972-2-656-4434 tions is that many parents are prepared to send their children to authentic Torah schools. Yet there are NORTH AMERICAN RABBINIC BOARD few Torah schools able to take children from secular (In formation): homes. Rabbi Levi Yitzchak HaLevi Horowitz, Our aim is to provide every Jewish child in Israel The Bostoner Rebbe the chance to have a real Torah education. The ini­ Ra!Jbi Shmuel Kamenetzky, tial goal is to establish a school for boys and a Rosh Yeshiva - Talmudical Yeshiva of school for girls in 50 cities throughout Israel. Philadelphia Rabbi Shmuel Yaakov Weinberg, These schools will be attractive, have a high aca­ Rosh Yeshiva - Ner Israel Rabbinical demic level and serve as educational centers for the College whole community. Now is the time to really make a difference. author. Mr. Davidsen's comment follows:) Would you recommend that we frequent tunities for us to direct our best inten­ Mr. Karfiol sounds like a sensitive and some of the seedier Manhattan night tion. caring individual with an abundance of haunts, in search of "kiruv opportuni­ Besides, the main point of my arti­ Ahavas Yisroel. Indeed, one should seek ties"? I think not. cle was not the cleansing benefits of out every possible avenue to be Perhaps if the hamoan am (broad avoiding the radio toxins, per se. But mekadesh shem Shamayim. His argu­ masses) were on the level of Yosef rather, using radio abstinence as a ment, however, about missing out on the Hatzaddik, we too could transform a device to shatter through the mighty opportunities to do chessed by not lis­ prison sentence into a giant seminar for clutches of hergel (oblivious regularity). tening to the radio, falls short. personal growth. But let's be realistic. It is this habitual behavior that is the true Of course, radio broadcasts can Most of us should be seeking ways to fil­ toxin that infiltrates every fragment of occasionally be vehicles for positive ter out the bombardment of drivel, inde­ our conduct and becomes a menacing experiences. Even television, dare I say, cency and distraction from our daily impediment to our ultimate goal: could have some redeeming value to it. existence. Yes. That might mean fore­ becoming closer to Hashem. Would that justify watching television going the occasional "chessed opportu­ AKIVA DAVIDSEN on the slim chance that some beneficial nity." Well worth it, I submit. There are image will happen to stroll past my gaze? an infinite number of non-radio oppor-

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