THE JEWISH AMERICAN B”H ARRIOR THE JEWISH AMERICAN

“Bringing the Light ofARRIOR Torah to Those Who Serve” VOL. 1 NO. 5

The Man Who Saved the President Truman’s features Chaplaincy: p. 5 Torah Scroll: p. 14 Go to Water: p. 9 COVID-19 and the 5 Things for Non-Jewish Military Family: p. 16 VOL. XXIV NO. 5 Chaplains: p. 10 Shavuot Info: p. 23 1 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 1 THE JEWISH AMERICAN THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR ARRIOR A SHAVUOT MESSAGE FROM THE LUBAVITCHER REBBE

By the Grace of G-d “descends” on Mount Sinai, and the world from a distance; but absolute Rosh Chodesh Sivan, 5715 Jew ascends to G-d — the soul is faith in a very personal G-d, who is the [May 22, 1955], Brooklyn, N.Y. released from all its fetters tying it very life and existence of everybody; . . . It is surely unnecessary to down to earthly things, and, on the who permeates where one is, or what wings of fear of G-d and love of G-d, one does. Where there is such faith, elaborate on the close relationship unites with the Creator in complete there is no room for fear or anxiety, as between the physical and the communion. It is then that it can fully the Psalmist says, “I fear no evil, for spiritual, which even modern appreciate the inner meaning of “I am You are with me,” with me, indeed, at science has become convinced of. G-d your G-d, Who brought you out of all times, not only on Shabbos or Yom the land of Egypt, the house of Tov, or during prayer or meditation on Physically, at this time of the year, we bondage,” and the rest of the Ten G-d. And when one puts his trust in find Nature again in full bloom. After a Commandments, till “You shall not G - d , u n c o n d i t i o n a l l y a n d period of hibernation, it springs back to covet,” i.e., not only refrain from taking unreservedly, one realizes what it life with renewed vigor and vitality, what is not yours, but not even desire means to be really free and full of The Jewish-American faithfully reproducing the same it. vigor, for all one’s energy is released in elements which characterized the the most constructive way, not only in Warrior same period a year ago, and two years is published bi-monthly by This great rise from the abyss of Egypt one’s own behalf, but also in behalf of The Aleph Institute ago, and all the way back to the first to the sublime heights of Sinai was the environment at large. seasons of the Nature cycle. 9540 Collins Avenue, Surfside, attained by pure and simple faith in Florida 33154 G-d, from the day when parents and The road is not free from obstacles Tel: (305) 864-5553 In our religious and spiritual life, also, children, women and infants, several and obstructions, for in the Divine Internet: we have the seasons and festivals million souls in all, set out on the trek order of things we are expected to www.aleph-institute.org which recur year after year, and through the desert, not dismayed by attain our goal by effort; but if we make Email: reproduce the same spiritual elements the irrationality of it, but simply a determined effort, success is [email protected] which first gave rise to them. Thus, at obeying the Divine call with absolute Divinely assured, and the obstacles Copyright © 2020, this time of the year, with the days of trust. This won special Divine favor, in and obstructions which at first loom The Aleph Institute. Sefirah connecting the festival of All rights reserved. the words of the Prophet: “I remember large, dissolve and disappear. Passover (physical freedom) with its for you the kindness of your youth, the Opinions expressed in the culmination in Shavuoth (spiritual love of your betrothal, your going after I wish you to tread this road of pure Jewish-American Warrior do freedom), we can — if we are Me into the wilderness.” It is this faith f a i t h i n G - d , w i t h o u t o v e r - not necessarily reflect opinions sufficiently prepared and attuned to it that carried the Jews through the introspection and self-searching, as in or policies of The Aleph — relive the experiences of our ages, an insignificant physical the simple illustration of a man Institute. Please direct all ancestors who actually witnessed the minority in the midst of a hostile world, walking: he will walk most steadily and subscription inquiries and Revelation and accepted the Torah at a spot of light threatened by an assuredly if he will not be conscious of address changes to our Sinai. Director of Outreach Programs. overwhelming darkness. It is this his walk and not seek to consciously absolute faith in G-d that we need coordinate the hundreds of muscles What a long way our ancestors The Aleph Institute, founded in nowadays more than ever before. operative in locomotion, or he would covered in the course of but 50 days; 1981/5741 at the express be unable to make his first step. direction of Rabbi Menachem from the abominations of Egyptian It is said, the whole sun is reflected in a M. Schneerson, the “culture,” in which moral depravity and drop of water. And so the whole of our Wishing you success in all above, and Lubavitcher Rebbe O.B.M., is a polytheism reigned supreme (as nation is reflected in each individual, hoping to hear good news from you not-for-profit educational, recent archeological discoveries have and what is true of the nation as a and yours, with the blessing of a happy humanitarian and advocacy amply brought to light) — to pure whole is true of the individual. Yom Tov of Receiving the Torah with organization serving the unique monotheism at Mount Sinai, where the inner joy, needs of Jews in institutional Jew receives the Torah with the call of environments and anywhere The core of Jewish vitality and “We will do, and we will listen”. “We will indestructibility is in its pure faith in Sincerely, else they and their families may do” first, i.e., complete surrender of become isolated from their G-d: not in some kind of an abstract [Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson] heritage. man to G-d. Deity, hidden somewhere in the Through the medium of the Torah, G-d heavenly spheres, who regards this

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 2 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 2

THE JEWISH AMERICAN

ARRIOR From Our Executive Director

Dear Service Members,

We hope you are all well and keeping safe as best you can amid the chaos and uncertainty of Covid-19. We know of the difficulties you face on a daily basis and we are here to support you. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can help in any way.

That said, we must all find ways to be more productive in whatever environment we find ourselves, to accomplish more and to find innovative ways to serve G-d during this crisis. G-d created the human being to be productive. The most difficult thing for the human is to be in a position that one is unable to be productive.

Every human being in the entire world has changed their modus operandi since Covid-19 became a pandemic. Even though there may be no religious services and you have very little interaction with others, you can still be productive. As humans and as Jews, we can’t just lift up our hands and give up when we are faced with a challenge. We need to find different ways to accomplish our goal - to create a dwelling place for G-d on this lowly earth by studying His Torah and fulfilling His commandments. For most of us, that means doing more things online. We at The Aleph Institute want to assist you to continue to grow in your Jewish study and prayer, and continue to find fresh ways to serve G-d. Here are some of the many ways that we can help:

1) Aleph has several intellectually stimulating Jewish correspondence courses that are available to you. You can find a list of these courses in this issue of The Jewish Warrior, on pages 50-51.

2) We also have many books on Jewish subjects available, free of cost. Some of you have received books from us in the past, but we have added many new titles to our catalogue. It would be an honor to help you grow and expand your Jewish library! Here are some books that might interest you:

“Positivity Bias” In Positivity Bias, we learn that life is essentially good; that positive perception is applicable and accessible to all. That it derives from objective, rational insight; not subjective, wishful imagination. And that positive living is a matter of choice, not circumstance. An inspiring and life-enriching tapestry woven from hundreds of stories, letter, anecdotes, and vignettes, Positivity Bias highlights how the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, taught us to see ourselves, others, and the world around us.

“The Chassidic Approach to Joy” Genuine joy comes from profound spiritual awareness in life and an absolute clarity of direction, living for a greater purpose. The Chassidic Approach to Joy explores the mystical depths of one's soul as well as the universe at large, on the path to pure, internal happiness.

“Judaism in a Nutshell” Learn about your heritage! This concise, accessible introduction to Jewish tradition and faith answers basic questions and explains Jewish rite and ritual and more, including the Jewish take on universal subjects like prayer, respect for elders, and conservation.

The Weiss Edition Hebrew / English Psalms Bursting with explanation and inspiration, the Weiss Edition Tehillim transforms mere recitation into connection and communication. The clear explanation blended into an all-new relatable translation makes Psalms meaningful and uplifting to all. It features a unique user-friendly layout, with background introductions to each chapter, and hundreds of selected insights. VOL. XXIV NO. 5 3 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 3

THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR From Our Executive Director

The Weiss Edition Ethics of Our Fathers This beautifully illustrated full-color volume of Ethics of our Fathers features a unique commentary blended into the translation and conveys meaningful messages from every Mishnah (passage). Throughout its 240 pages, each Mishnah is accompanied by multiple tidbits, biographies of those being quoted, commentaries, insights, and stories. Connect to the timeless messages of Ethics of Our Fathers like never before!

These books, as well as many others featured in these pages, are available to all Jewish members of the military.

3) Subscribe to Chayenu for Daily Study Chayenu is a weekly Hebrew/English digest, which includes a variety of Torah subjects for daily and weekly study, available in print or as an app. See information on this unique publication on pages 20-21.

4) Prayer Most of you have a Siddur/Prayerbook. Many of you may not have had the time until now to pray the entire morning, afternoon, evening and Shema prayer. Please consider reading more of the prayers in your prayer book. We would suggest you start with the morning blessings and add a few pages every day, and conclude your evening with the Shema.

5) Tzitzit You can read about the special Mitzvah of wearing Tzitzit in this issue of the Warrior on page 52. You will see our offer to provide you with Tzitzit there.

6) Tefillin You can read about the Mitzvah of donning Tefillin, and our offer to assist you to get your own pair of Tefillin, on page 53.

7) Light Shabbat Candles every Friday night. This edition of The Jewish American Warrior features an extensive article with the complete history of this beautiful mitzvah, on pages 28-32. We encourage you to incorporate this special mitzvah into your life.

8) Add in good deeds and in your love for every Jew. During these days of counting of the Omer, we must be extra careful to be kind, helpful and loving to all of our fellow Jews; particularly as it is a mourning period for the death of 24,000 students of Rabbi Akiva, who, according to tradition, were punished for their lack of respect to each other. From Passover until the holiday of Shavuot, we are urged to refine a different personal character trait every day. For example, one such trait is described as “Hod of Gevura”, or Discipline within Humility. The results of discipline and might without humility are obvious. The greatest catastrophes have occurred as a result of people sitting in arrogant judgement of others. Am I arrogant in the name of justice (what I consider as just)? Do I ever think that I sit on a higher pedestal and bestow judgement on my subjects below? What about my children? Students? A judge has to be the most humble of creatures, recognizing that he sits in judgement not by his own merit but only because G-d gave the right to judge His children. Don't judge anyone unless you are doing so selflessly with no personal bias. Don’t let a day go by that you haven’t gone out of your way to make someone feel better. Even just a smile or greeting can make a difference.

Let us use this unique time in history as a time of quantum spiritual growth! We hope you will take advantage of all these opportunities. To do so, please email [email protected] to request any of the above books, materials or courses. It is a privilege to serve and assist you!

With Torah greetings and blessings, I remain,

Rabbi Aaron Lipskar

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 4 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 4 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR The Man who Saved the Chaplaincy Interview with Chaplain (Brigadier General) Israel Drazin, USAR

JAW: General Drazin, tell us a little about yourself and your background. Yes; philosophy and the Bible. I've written or contributed to 55 books. My first published book was a major study on Targum GID: My great-grandfather came to the US before the turn of Onkelos. the century. My grandfather grew up in NY and went into the clothing business, as most Jews did at the time, but he went There was nothing military in your home, though? bankrupt. He was a very religious fellow, and he bought into the Talmudic concept that “When one’s name and residence is One of my uncles was a sailor in the Navy during WWII, but changed, one’s luck is changed”, so he changed his name from other than that, no. Drusin to Drazin and moved to Canada, where he became a millionaire. My father, Nathan, was a well-recognized scholar, But you were the youngest military chaplain ever, at 21 years old. So how did and originally worked for him, but was more interested in being a that happen? rabbi. He got a PhD, became a rabbi, and moved to Baltimore, where he was Well that’s a funny story. This was the first rabbi of Congregation Shaarei 1957. As I told you, I did a lot of study Tefillah, and served there for 31 years. I as a youngster, and even when I went succeeded him for 7 years, but whereas to Ner Israel Rabbinical College, I he was a full time rabbi, I only did it went to Johns Hopkins at night. I along with the other things I was doing finally got tired of studying, so I told at the time. I only went there on my parents that I was tired of it and I Shabbat and gave a sermon. wanted to go into the army to escape from study. My father said, “Well if Ever since I was a youngster, I always you do, go in as a chaplain.” The Dean had to do more than one thing. That’s of Ner Israel, Rabbi Ruderman, gave just my nature. For example, when I me semicha, and that’s what I did. But went to high school at the Talmudical the joke of it was when I finally got Academy of Baltimore, in my junior into the Army, it was with a pile of year, I became interested in chemistry books! So I thought I could escape it, and biology, and my school only taught but I couldn’t. one, but I wanted to learn the other also. So what I did was I went to a high school called City College, and I took night courses I was on AD for close to three years, and then I went into the there. Then I became interested in physics, so I took that course Reserves. While I was in the Reserves, I took advantage of the GI at night; and then I studied math at night. The result was that I Bill, and two Masters degrees in psychology and Hebrew graduated with five years of high school instead of four years. It’s literature, as well as a law degree and my PhD. As a result, one of just my nature - I need to do more than one thing at the same my assignments in the Reserves was to lecture in the chaplain time. school on such things as confidentiality. But I never was sent into battle or anything like that. Even today, I do multiple things. I read about 200 books a year, and I place book reviews on about a dozen different sites. Eventually, I was invited to an event in Annapolis, Maryland, Amazon rates their reviewers, and I’m in their top 300 reviewers. where they had a fellow from the Judge Advocate General offices I also have a website called booksnthoughts.com, and I put speaking. He was trying to explain to the chaplains a brand new articles on that site and on Times of Israel, as well as a few other courtcase coming up of two Harvard students who were suing sites. In addition to that, I write books. the Army for having the Chaplain Corps, as a case of government-sponsored religion, a violation of the First Your interest is primarily theological? Amendment prohibiting the government from getting involved in religion. But the chaplains assembled there could not

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 5 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 5 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR understand what he was talking about. So work on Sunday, or the Muslim group clergy is only doing the religious service. I raised my hand and said perhaps I can whose chaplain did not let them use the Because of their lack of training, they do explain it. And I did, and apparently it chapel, because “they would desecrate it”, not really understand the needs of the made a big enough impression that when or a soldier who wanted to wear the military personnel. They cannot do the suit was filed, people recommended Mormon religious undergarments… counseling or anything of the sort. that the Chief of Chaplains have me That last case came all the way up to the handle the case. So I was called back to Pentagon. I simply pointed out that no In your book on the case, “For God and active duty to do so. one sees it - it’s an undergarment! Like the Country”, it’s quite clear that you were frustrated tzitzit! So I was able to help them, and the with the approach that the government’s lawyers And that’s really where you made your mark. Mormons - unrequested - paid me back took to defending the chaplaincy. Can you talk a Tell us about that case (Katcoff v. Marsh), and later by doing a genealogical study for me. little about that? the changes made as a result of it. Another example of the shift that I made The Department of Justice lawyers, who One of my primary roles was to defend is: then, as now, there was a shortage of argued the case in the courts, didn’t fully the chaplaincy. Why does the government Catholic priests, so they made priests understand the uniqueness of the military pay for clergy? Why not use civilians? So what they called “auxiliary chaplains”. I chaplain over the civilian clergy, and I felt that was what I was addressing. What I objected to that, because I pointed out it was my position to educate them on wanted to show was that a civilian that. clergyman could not do what a military clergyman could do because You wanted them to bring the case all of the chaplains unique training. the way to the Supreme Court, but the One of the things I wrote to the lawyers were satisfied when the case was court was that when the North won in the lower courts. What would Vietnamese attacked in the Tet have happened if it went to the top? Offensive, the military pushed aside the chaplains, because the military If it went to the Supreme Court, felt that the people serving as it would become the law of the chaplains would be a disturbance land. If it just goes to the circuit rather than a help in the battle. The court, as happened with this case, chaplain, at that time, was like a then it does not become the law civilian. There were also a number of of the land, and someone can file civilian clergies, and they were also the suit again. And, in all pushed aside, because the military probability, someone eventually felt they could not understand the will do so, and we’ll have to start needs of the soldiers. And that’s why all over again. It’s just a matter of I made the change to have all time. chaplains responsible to people of all faiths - to provide for the Free Exercise that what the Catholics were doing was in So why didn’t the lawyers want to go all the way to of every soldier. By “provide,” I meant essence proving the Katcoff case, that the Supreme Court? that the chaplain did not have to do work civilians can serve the military. That contrary to his or her religion, but would caused a bit of a rift in the office of the The problem is that there were layers of assure that the soldier’s religious needs Chief of Chaplains; the Catholics the defense - me at one level, JAG at were taken care of. For example, if the thought I was a bigot. But I would say the another, and then finally the Department soldier was a Native American and had a same thing about rabbis as auxiliary of Justice. JAG did not argue the case in religious problem associated with his chaplains, so I didn’t feel that way at all. court, DOJ did. Those people changed faith, the unit chaplain would bring in a These people went to the Chief of every once in a while. JAG, of course, Native American clergy to care for this Chaplains, who himself was a Catholic, understood the chaplains better than the religious need. and complained that I was hurting the civilians in the DOJ. But what happened Catholic program, but he supported me was after several years and changing As a result, the word got out that I would 100%. personnel in the DOJ, the people who help people of all religions. I had so many came onto the case didn’t understand it people calling me for help with their So it’s an interesting balance, because the military and felt it was too complex, and nixed the religious accommodations that I decided still does not have enough rabbis or Catholic idea of pushing it to the Supreme Court. to tabulate the amount of people calling priests, so the military has many contract priests The plaintiffs in the case realized that the me at the Pentagon in one year. It’s hard to and even a handful of contract rabbis to plug the chance of winning in the Supreme Court believe but I had 100 cases in that one gaps; although that’s done out of desperation. at that time was very small, so they wanted year! Cases like: the Protestant who What’s your take on that? to stop the case, also. wanted to keep Passover, or the Catholic who wanted to keep the Sabbath and not It has to be made clear that the contract Did you ever meet Katcoff and Weider, the

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 6 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 6 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR plaintiffs? What are your thoughts about their motives in the case? Laws. The basic teachings which are taught by all religious - but not necessarily followed by people of all religions - teach the same I thought they believed what they were saying, that chaplains are a things, and for the most part, it would be to have people practice violation of the First Amendment. They were idealists. I think what the seven Noahide commandments want us to practice. I their argument was sensible, and we had a hard time coming up found no difficulty giving a speech on the Seven Laws at a with a solution. Catholic service, because I felt this would be something that would encourage them to be better Catholics. But the Noahide So there seems to be a very delicate balance between Laws are still important to stress, to remind people chaplains being the officers responsible for the Free what they need to do. For example, one of the Laws Exercise of Religion, and at the same time, filling the is to establish courts of law. There are individuals commander’s needs. What would be the comfortable who think there is too much law, but the Sheva balance there? Mitzvot remind us that you need law. And the last command, the command to not eat the flesh of a The free exercise clause is understood by the living creature, is meant to teach us respect to all courts to mean that an individual can believe creatures, and I don’t think that has not caught on whatever they want. That doesn’t hurt anybody. yet. So society still has a way to go. But in regard to practices, the court in essence says that you can only prohibit someone if there Where do you see military chaplaincy going from here? is a compelling state interest. It has to be compelling. The military doesn’t buy into that I get the impression that the chaplains have now, or in my day; but I think they should. The forgotten what I taught and are falling back to the military buys into the concept of military way things were before 1980. For example there are necessity, which means nothing; it means complaints about certain “evangelical” (in attitude, whatever the commander thinks. Whereas the not denomination) clergy that insist upon their civilian standard of compelling state interest is right to teach what they want, or Catholic chaplains very different. who insist that they don’t want to cater to or help Protestants or certainly not Mormons. I think those problems still There are lots of problems with how to deal with these matters. exist. I put it in a regulation that the endorsing body has to certify For example, how do you know the soldier is telling the truth? The that the individual who wants to be a chaplain can provide for the solution that I came up with is there’s already a regulation on free exercise of all people in the command. I put it in the conscientious objectors regarding what you look at - the regulation, but I don’t think it’s observed today. “sincerity and depth of conviction of the applicant”. Those items should be the same regarding someone who makes a claim about For you the ideal chaplain would be? a religious practice. A person that’s concerned for all people, whether that person is You famously received a request by the Lubavitcher Rebbe to talk about the male, or female, Jew or a Satanist. Everyone is a human. A basic Seven Noahide Laws to military chaplains. Can you tell us about that? Why teaching in Judaism is we are all descendants of Adam and Eve. was it important, and would that work in the chaplaincy today? The purpose of that story is to teach that all people should be treated equally. “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” It’s that I understood the Rebbe to be saying that we are all to act properly, simple. and one way of expressing that is through the Seven Noahide

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VOL. XXIV NO. 5 7 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 7 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR Jews in American Military History: The Salomon Brothers By CSM Sam Yudin, CA ARNG The United States Military has a long and proud tradition of 1866, President Andrew Johnson nominated Charles for family members serving together. This phenomenon has taken appointment to Brevet Brigadier General of Volunteers with an different shapes over the years. During World War II, when a effective date of March 13, 1865. The United States Senate higher portion of the population served, it was more common for confirmed the appointment on March 12, 1866. families to send all their sons to war. More recently, fewer of the population shoulders the burden of military service. Yet, some Brevet Major General Frederick Charles Salomon was born families have a history of service, so there continue to be families on April 7, 1826. While still in Prussia after high school, he was a that send multiple sons and daughters off to serve. government surveyor, an artillery lieutenant in the Prussian Army, and an architect student in Berlin before emigrating to The Department Manitowoc, Wisconsin of Defense started in 1849. In Wisconsin, to take notice of he was county register t h e i n c r e d i b l e of deeds, and the chief burden of family e n g i n e e r w i t h t h e loss when there M a n i t o w o c a n d were casualties Wisconsin Railroad during World War before joining the 5th I I . S t e v e n Missouri Volunteer Spielberg's 1998 Infantry as a Captain in film Saving Private Left to Right: Charles, Fredrick, Edward, and Herman Salomon 1861. He served at the Ryan dramatized Battle of Wilson's t h i s s i t u a t i o n . Creek. Frederick was There was no policy to address how to handle multiple casualties then appointed Colonel of the 9th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry in one family until the 1948 Special Separation Policies for Regiment, and joined its "Indian Expedition." Frederick was Survivorship or, as it is more commonly known, the Sole Survivor appointed a Brigadier General of volunteers in 1862. From 1862- Policy. The greatest burden bore by one family was the Sullivans. 1864, as a member of the volunteers, he participated at the First At the Naval battle of Guadalcanal on November 13, 1942, 687 Battle of Newtonia, the Battle of Helena, the Battle of Elkin's men were killed in action, including five Sullivan brothers, when Ferry, and the Battle of Jenkins' Ferry. On January 13, 1866, the USS Juneau was sunk. The practices of the policy were President Andrew Johnson nominated Frederick for implemented during World War II and have continued in every appointment to Brevet Major General of Volunteers with an war since. effective date of March 13, 1865. The United States Senate confirmed the appointment on March 12, 1866. Frederick later There is a great Jewish American Military History story to be told became the surveyor general of Utah Territory, where he died on about one Jewish family's extraordinary military service. The four March 8, 1897 at the age of 70, and was buried in Salt Lake City. Salomon brothers were originally from Ströbeck, Halberstadt, Prussia. As residents of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, all four served Edward Salomon was born on August 11, 1828. He attended during the Civil War. Charles and Frederick were officers, the University of Berlin and emigrated in 1849. After arriving in Edward was the Governor of Wisconsin, and Herman was an Wisconsin, he was a school teacher, surveyor, deputy circuit court enlisted man. Their cousin Edward S. Salomon, originally from clerk. In 1852, he moved to Milwaukee, where he became a lawyer. Schleswig, Prussia and later of Chicago, Illinois, was also a He won election for Lieutenant Governor in 1861, and in 1862, Brigadier General in the Civil War. He eventually became when Governor Lewis P. Harvey drowned in the Tennessee River governor of Washington Territory. while inspecting Wisconsin troops after the Battle of Shiloh, Edward became Wisconsin's 8th Governor, and the first Brevet Brigadier General Charles Eberhard Salomon was German-born and Jewish governor. born on June 24, 1824. In 1861, Charles joined the 5th Missouri Volunteer Infantry as a Captain. Members of the 5th Missouri Herman Salomon was born January 1, 1834. He enlisted on elected Charles to be promoted to Colonel and command the September 4, 1861 in Co. I of the First Missouri Volunteer regiment, which he did at the Battle of Carthage. He was Engineer Regiment and was discharged as a Sergeant at East discharged in August of 1861 but rejoined the Army in Point, Georgia on September 28, 1864. He died on September September of 1862, succeeding his younger brother Fredrick as 20, 1881 and is buried in Evergreen Cemetery in Manitowoc, the commander of the 9th Wisconsin Infantry. He led them at Wisconsin. the First Battle of Newtonia, the Battle of Prairie Grove, the Battle of Helena and the Battle of Jenkins' Ferry. On January 13,

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 8 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 8 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR

Go To Water M. Cunnings

“When encountering water, one should say that the Baal Shem Tov says I admitted that yes, even on the longest days, I am usually able to that it is a sign of blessing.” (Hayom Yom, Teves 21) consume some pretzels.

t does not feel that way as the longest 3 AM in history "What would happen if you went without food or water?" stretches on. The ship rocks a little due to our low speed. I Iwash down another Dramamine with a gulp of my sickly "You would die." sweet energy drink. (I probably should have figured out if I get seasick prior to joining the Navy...) 300 Mg of caffeine would "With no food, you die. Without Torah, you die spiritually." have to power me through to the next few hours. I walk to the bridge wing, shuffling past bleary-eyed boatswain's mates. The "One seems slightly more permanent," I retorted. wind outside is cool and ruffles the waves. The sky is cloudy; no beautiful display of celestial lights tonight. With no moon, it is He sighed, "Yes, but you need to maintain the vitality of your pitch black. The waves are the only sound. The lookout leans soul. Even on the longest day, you still make time to eat. No sleepily against the wall, hands shoved into his pockets. As I stare matter what, you still make time." out into the darkness, my eyes start to close. My head bobbing downward snaps me violently back to focusing. I breath in “Yes." sharply and say the blessing, “Baruch ata...shehakol niyeh bidvaro.” I pop a hard candy into my mouth, hoping it will keep "So if you can make time to sustain your body, surely you can find me awake. “My soul longs for Hashem more than watchmen for the five minutes for your soul." I nodded. "So, that is what I have to morning (Tehillim 130:6).” King David was clearly inspired by his tell you. Every day, take some time to learn a little Torah. Feed military service when writing that line of Psalms... Another your soul." couple hours and I will be passed out in my rack. Until then, snacks from my pockets keep me awake. piece of advice that is followed with the ebb and flow of waves on the beach; usually directly correlating to the othing but empty ocean and sleepy co-workers often Alength of my work day. Back on the bridge, my longing leaves time for quiet reflection. I remember my rabbi for the day is answered as the first glimmers of the rising sun turn Nfrom years ago sitting in a lawn chair on a quiet shabbos into morning. The watch trudges on, bells ring, reports are given, evening, a few people around him, talking and laughing. He saw I and eventually I salute my relief and lay below. But before I was quiet and asked me for my thoughts. I told him that in a few collapse into the embrace of my sleeping bag, I pull out my daily short days I would report to my first ship. I asked if he had any learning. A copy of the Lubavitcher Rebbe's daily thought on the advice. He sat back, thinking for a minute. Hands clasped in front parsha. A few sentences of Torah digested with brominated of his face and beard, he looked over his glasses, like I imagine a ship’s water. “The reference to water refers only to the study of Torah, as it professor twice his age would. is stated, ‘All who are thirsty, go to water.’” (Bava Kama 17a) I read intently, nourished and sustained by the words of the Torah, “Every day you eat, correct?" finding their way to the middle of the ocean, below the waterline, to me. I laughed, "No, definitely not." I remembered long training days with no solid meal in sight. Ms. Cunnings is an ensign in the US Navy. These views are hers alone and do not represent the views of the US Navy. "Not even a little snack or water?"

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 9 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 9 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR

5 Things we wish Every Non-Jewish Chaplain Knew he US military is blessed with outstanding chaplains, through belief ”. In contrast, daily life for an observant Jew is who will go above and beyond in their efforts to make regulated by the commandments, which result in observance Tsure that all service members in their command have and ritual. All Judaic to-dos and do-nots are called Mitzvot, their religious needs accommodated, in keeping with the free translated as “commandments”. Belief, community and prayer exercise of religion clause of the US Constitution. Still, gaps in are but aspects of Jewish service. knowledge of minority religious needs often results in those needs not being met, by no fault of the chaplain’s. We aim to Surprisingly, this gives you unique opportunities to help, as there bridge that gap regarding Judaism and Jewish Service Members are many instances where the SM may need your involvement to (SM) with this essay, a sister-article to a previous one (5 Things We ensure s/he can fulfill his/her individual religious obligations in Wish Every Jewish SM Knew, Jewish-American Warrior, Purim 2020). military circumstances. Your sensitivity towards those needs will Here are 5 interrelated points, knowledge of which will help make all the difference. non-Jewish chaplains effectively assist Jewish SMs within their AOR. Still, there is obvious value in communal service. As a low- density faith in the military, creating Jewish communities can 1. Be Aware of the Religious Symbol You Wear sometimes prove to be near impossible. But there is one leeway that makes it easier to do so: Judaism does not require an As non-overt minorities, most American Jews do not wear their ordained rabbi or chaplain to lead services. Chaplains should religion on their sleeves, or their heads. But we chaplains wear seek out the Jewish lay leader (DFGL) for their installations. If our religion proudly on our chests for all to see, and that has an none exists, you should facilitate the approval of one, with the impact, for better or, unfortunately, occasionally for worse. help of the senior installation chaplain and a Jewish endorsing Perhaps you’ve met a Jewish SM or two who politely brushed agency such as our own Aleph Institute. you off. The reason is probably that you are being judged based on your religious symbol: as one of the few non-Christians in 3. Denomination Versus Observance the room or unit, they may think that they really don’t need you. When a chaplain first meets a Jewish SM, typically one of the But as a chaplain, you understand that one of our essential first questions asked is, “What Jewish denomination do you responsibilities is to make sure all SMs and their families have identify with?” In general, we prefer the term “movement” over their religious needs accommodated, whether or not they are of the term “denomination”, as the terms are not as hard and fast the same faith tradition as you, their chaplain. To do that, you as they are in Christianity. But from a chaplain’s religious- need to clearly explain to the Jewish SM that your job is to accommodation standpoint, whatever answer given does not support every member, regardless of your own and his or her provide tremendous insight. faith group. It is likely you will need to overcome a certain degree of misunderstanding of your motives, for fear of Here’s why: a Jew will typically answer this question based on the proselytization. We hope the next items on our list will help you synagogue he or she belonged to growing up, regardless of overcome such fears. But in any case, please be aware of one whether it matches the level of their familial or personal other issue: we often seek commonality in order to create bonds religious standards. I’ve met Jews who formally identify as with those from different backgrounds. However, while well- Reform, yet their observance matches Orthodox practice; while meaning, equating your religion’s observances to Judaism often other Jews I know do quite the opposite, and yet others, creates a level of distrust, especially considering our next point. everything in between. To give a parallel example from the Christian world: it would be fairly ridiculous for someone to 2. Judaism: A Different Track, A Different Tack identify as a Catholic, keep Sabbath like a Seventh Day Adventist, attend Baptist services and have a family pastor who Judaism is very different in ritual and structure than most other is Anglican. But the rough “equivalent” in Judaism would be religions. For example, the center of many religions is “salvation quite common for American Jews.

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 10 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 10 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR In the military, the only thing that is important is what - if any - accommodations will be needed to facilitate this individual’s 5. Kosher: Jewish Dietary Needs practice of their religion. Therefore the most pertinent question is not what denomination they are, but rather, “What kinds of “Kosher” is a generic term to refer to any food that is itself Jewish observances do you identify with?” Their response will permitted by Jewish law, has been prepared only with other inform you of the types of support and assistance they will such foods, and in utensils in which only such foods have need. been prepared. (It has nothing to do with a Rabbi blessing You can expect a majority of your Jewish SMs to respond with a the food.) All raw fruits and vegetables are kosher. vanilla, “Well, I’m not very observant.” But when gently pressed, you will probably learn that they do have a few holidays Most Exchanges have some kosher food in stock, as a that they endeavor to celebrate (most commonly, Rosh significant amount of food in the US market has Kosher Hashana, Yom Kippur, Chanukah and Passover), and will, in supervision. You’ve probably seen the OU or OK fact, need your assistance at some point to do so - whether that symbols, as well as many others, without identifying them means getting time off from duty, obtaining religious materials as symbols that proclaim this product has Kosher or permission to light candles in the barracks. supervisors who visit the plants to make sure all the ingredients of the product and the assembly lines remain 4. The Jewish calendar: Shabbat and Holidays unsullied by non-kosher foods or ingredients. You can find a list of kosher super vision symbols here: You might be surprised to see a Jewish SM glance at September http://www.crcweb.org/agency_list.php and exclaim in utter exasperation, “The holidays are in the middle of the week this year!” No one emotionally reacts to a calendar the way a Jewish person does. We’ll try to explain that “Kosher for Passover” is a completely different beast. Jews and a few other oddities here: are mandated to eat only Kosher for Passover foods from the morning prior to Passover, and throughout all 8 days The Jewish calendar works by a lunar cycle kept in check with of the holidays. Kosher for Passover foods are strictly non- the solar calendar (unlike the Muslim calendar), making sure all leavened. No leavened products may come in contact with holidays fall out in the natural seasons (unlike Ramadan). That’s the food, even if it is strictly Kosher. why Chanukah (spell it however you want) is sometimes celebrated a month before Christmas, or even after. It also In training situations, especially in Basic, extra effort needs means that a holiday can begin on any day of the week. A to be made to assist trainees to get food in accordance with religiously observant Jew is not permitted to do any work that is their Kosher diet. We are aware of all too many young not involved with the saving of lives on the two opening and closing days of the holidays of Passover and Sukkot, as well as trainees who have had a very difficult time ensuring on the holidays of Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur and Shavuot. Kosher food was made available to them. Even after When those days fall out during the work week, someone’s boss graduation, there may be issues: if your SM is junior is probably going to be annoyed. Hence the above-mentioned enlisted, he or she might need permission for separate frustration. rations or to have a small food-prep station or microwave in the barracks. Both regular Kosher and Kosher for Jewish holidays, including the weekly Sabbath, start at sundown, Passover MREs exist, and need to be requested from the and end after nightfall. So the Jewish Sabbath starts Friday DLA with enough time to get them to your Service afternoon, depending on whatever time sunset occurs, and ends Member. Whether or not your Jewish SM keeps strict Saturday night, 25 hours later. (On some installations, Sabbath kosher or some aspect of it, consideration of their dietary services occur at a fixed time throughout the year for needs will certainly be greatly appreciated. uniformity, but that is a separate conversation.) This means that the work limitations we mentioned begin, during winter and in extreme locations, very early - even during Friday’s work day. “Spirituality” is one of the military’s Pillars of Resilience. The holidays of Chanukah and Purim do not have work We chaplains feed that spirituality in accordance with the restrictions, but they do have specific religiously mandated needs of each individual Service Member. We hope these 5 rituals that need to be performed during either daytime or keys will assist you to do so, helping ensure that the Jewish nighttime. Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines under your responsibility have all their religious needs met, leaving All of this can be dealt with, and chances are that you, as the them fit to fight. Obviously, we at the Aleph Institute will chaplain, are going to be involved at some point. But again, the do all we can to help you in this most vital work. We are accommodation needs depend on the individual SM’s proud to be your partners. observance, not their affiliation.

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 11 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 11 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR On Officership and Judaism in the Military Mark Vandroff, Captain, USN, Ret. n February of 2019, the Aleph Institute was kind enough to ask me to address the annual training seminar they host for IJewish chaplains of the Armed Forces of the United States. As I was coming to the end of my thirty year career as a line officer in the United States Navy, Aleph asked that I provide my perspective as a Jew who had held multiple Navy commands, on the nature of military chaplaincy and the special responsibilities ordained Rabbis who become chaplains have both to the commands they serve and to their fellow Jews. I greatly enjoyed giving the talk and making new friends from among the dedicated chaplains attending that year’s training. Because it is my practice to speak from slides and notes, there were no prepared remarks from that evening. However, the Aleph Institute invited me to capture my thoughts in this article for their magazine. My talk that night included three broad themes I will attempt to capture in this article: first, my experience as a Jew serving in the United States watch every Saturday. Given the infeasibility of a Navy ship Navy; second, my advice to military chaplains of all faith groups maintaining a separate set of dishes for a single Jewish sailor based on my experience as a line officer; and third, my specific onboard, it was not possible to fully observe the laws of Kashrut. advice to Rabbis who accept commissions as chaplains in the I, like any American Jew who makes the choice to serve his or her Armed Forces of the United States. country in the United States Navy, understood that I would have to make the best choices I could throughout my career in order to was born and raised in the town of Lakeland, Florida. It is a balance the performance of my military duties with the relatively small city, located roughly halfway between Tampa observance of my religious obligations. At every stage in my Iand Orlando, and during my childhood in the 1970’s and career, Navy leaders were always willing to work with me in good 1980’s, still very much a part of the Deep South. The small (less faith to help me achieve that balance. In the cases where those than 250 member families) synagogue where I received after- leaders came from communities with significant Jewish school religious instruction and celebrated my Bar Mitzvah was populations, engaging with them about these issues was easy. In the only Jewish religious institution for 40 miles in any direction. those cases where leaders had less or no familiarity with Jews or In my high school class of over 600 students, I was one of three their religious practices, thoughtful chaplains from all faith groups Jews. Unlike my family in New York or Miami, I was always aware helped to educate them and facilitate my observances. of being a member of a religious minority. Thankfully, that minority status almost never resulted in ill treatment. With the ike many of the Americans who choose to serve their exception of one exclusionary country club my family could not nation in uniform, my career entailed several moves, and I join and a small number of misguided peers who used the was stationed in many diverse communities across the occasional slur word, my childhood was blissfully free of anti- L country. In each new duty station I had to figure out how I would Semitism. use the existing resources of the Navy and the civilian community to achieve the best Jewish experience practical. For example, y service in the Navy was also free of any institutional during a three year tour in Mississippi, there was not a synagogue anti-Semitism. What I did encounter was the within 60 miles of my duty station. I had to learn to do as much Moccasional fellow service members who would speak observance by myself as I could and then plan trips when possible or act out of a lack of awareness. As an example, a senior officer to cities with Jewish communities. Alternatively, while in once assigned me to be a ship’s duty officer on Rosh Hashanah. I command of a Navy shore facility in Bethesda, Maryland, I lived offered to trade duty with another officer but he did not among a sizable Jewish community and had a choice of several understand why I did not want to stand duty on the day it was my synagogues, representing all the major movements in American turn to do so. Luckily, our squadron chaplain (who happened to Judaism, within a close distance to my home. There, a Jewish life be a Roman Catholic priest) educated this officer on the was far easier to achieve. significance of Rosh Hashanah and my duty swap was approved. y soon to be Bat Mitzvah daughter, growing up while I n general, religious observance was always a matter of served in that command, has had a vastly different informed compromise, especially on sea duty. A watch Jewish experience than I had at her age. When I took Iofficer on a deployed warship cannot take off his or her herM at age 6 to see my alma mater, the United States Naval VOL. XXIV NO. 5 12 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 12 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR Academy, she asked why the Christian chapel on campus was he first key lesson from these stories of my interactions much larger than the Jewish chapel. When I explained that there with chaplains is that chaplains need to be constantly were more Christian students than Jewish students, she asked why Teducating leaders at all levels about the religious practices that was. In her childhood neighborhood, there were roughly the and needs of service members of all faiths. Informed leaders same number of Jewish children as non-Jewish children. make better decisions and will engage their service members from Although now old enough to understand the demographic reality, a position of knowledge rather than make mistakes born of she has yet to experience life as a religious minority. During my ignorance. Second, military chaplains in the Armed Forces of the service in the Navy I was always part of a religious minority, but United States need to be passionately committed to facilitating the because of the general goodwill of my fellow service members religious needs of all faith groups. The members of today’s and the specific actions of dedicated, professional chaplains, I was military represent a broader set of religious traditions than ever never mistreated due to that minority status. before. As Jews, our history of persecution and exclusion should help us understand than that the free exercise of religion has to hile my Jewish observance varied as I moved to each apply to all faiths lest it end up not applying to any faith. Third, new duty assignment, my Jewish values were a constant chaplains are there to care for the service members during trying Wsource of strength and foundational to my military times. Good pastoral is a skill no chaplain can be without. Many service. From the Torah command to be happy on the Sabbath, I fine Rabbis, and clergy of other faiths as well, can be excellent learned that as a leader I had to educators or scholars. However, if a p r o j e c t h a p p i n e s s a n d member of the clergy cannot counsel optimism in front of those I during times of trouble, military was privileged to lead. From chaplaincy is not for them. Finally, the discipline of maintaining chaplains are staff corps officers. Like the cor rect sequence in officers of the Medical Corps or Judge donning and doffing tefillin, I Advocate General’s Corps, they are learned to be disciplined in the commissioned to provide expert advice sequence of starting and and services in their particular area of s t o p p i n g e n g i n e s a n d expertise. Chaplains need the humility generators on a warship. to remember they are not the ones in Judaism taught me that right command. and wrong were not feelings that came from inside myself i n a l l y, t h e r e a r e s p e c i a l but objective moral standards obligations for Rabbis of all set for me by my Creator and denominations who accept ar ticulated in scripture. F commissions as chaplains in the Armed Therefore, living by a military Forces of the United States. Just as I code of conduct established had commanders who, while well not by my feelings but by the intentioned, never met any Jews or laws of a democratic society knew anything about Judaism, a Rabbi was made easier by the serving as a chaplain will likely be teachings of my faith. At every turn in my career, Judaism served assigned at some point in their career as the sole chaplain to make me a better naval officer. supporting units where many of the people serving, including the commander, will have had no exposure to Judaism. For these have discussed above how much I benefitted from the fellow service members, the Jewish chaplain represents all of principled actions of military chaplains of all faiths Judaism. In the United States, this will not be the case for Ithroughout my naval career. I have also benefitted from the Protestant or Roman Catholic clergy serving as chaplains, since pastoral care my people and I received from chaplains in the most of the military personnel they serve will have known other toughest of times. I was present at the Washington Navy Yard ministers and priests in their civilian lives. For Rabbis, and other shooting on September 16, 2013. Many of the people in my clergy representing minority faith groups, there is a special, organization were subjected to gunfire and two close colleagues unwritten obligation to be a good ambassador and role model of were among the twelve people who lost their lives. The chaplains their faith. of all faiths deployed by the Navy to assist and counsel the survivors brought the light of their wisdom into the darkness of t the end of my talk, I thanked the Aleph Institute for the the aftermath. In my own case, I was befriended by a Navy Rabbi offer to speak to the chaplains in attendance and said I who helped both me and the command heal in the aftermath of hoped my message would be useful to them as they the event. Although the Rabbi was member of the A facilitated the religious observance for all the military personnel Reconstructionist Movement, and therefore had a very different they served. The talk that night gave me the personal opportunity approach and understanding of Judaism than I did, his ability to to reflect two things that have brought joy and meaning to my life; help our command deal with grief was a model for chaplains of all my belief in and observance of Judaism and a military career faiths. serving the United States of America.

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 13 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 13 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR The Flying History of President Truman’s Torah Scroll An excerpt from “Chaplain on Wings” By Rabbi Harold Gordon (Ch, Capt, USAAC Ret) One day in January, 1944...I was called into the office of the bases included 3W-8 above the Arctic Circle; BE-2 on the post chaplain, a Col. Morrison. There, I found LTC Bennett east coast and BW-7 at Ivigtut) and Iceland, with Meeks from the Chief of Chaplain’s Office in Washington. He Field 35 miles from the capital, Reykjavik. From Iceland, it asked me whether I was averse to traveling by air. I told was a four hour flight to Prestwick, Scotland, one of the Bennett that my only flying experience had been a flight largest bases in the United Kingdom. From Scotland I from Chicago to Washington, but I recalled that it had given would fly south to the Azores, west of the Portuguese coast, me a great thrill at the time. He then asked me whether I a trans-Atlantic flight of 2,265 miles brought me back to would accept an overseas assignment that involved air Kindley Field, Bermuda. From Bermuda, it was a three and travel. When I said I that I would have no objection, I was a half hour flight to LaGuardia Field in New York. Then it told that I could expect my orders for overseas duty very was north again to Grenier Field, near Manchester, Dow soon. Neither of Field at Bangor, and finally home to headquarters at the two chaplains Presque Isle. Later, when our Division took over the was ready to tell me national airport at Gravelly Point, near Washington the precise nature DC, the capital became part of my circuit. of my assignments, but they explained Since there were no Scrolls of the Law on most of t h a t m y d u t i e s the bases I visited, I inquired about the possibility of would entail flying my obtaining a Torah to take with me as I traveled from one base to around the circuit. The Beth Israel Synagogue in another. Chaplain Bangor, Maine agreed to lend me one of its Torah Morrison added scrolls for the duration of the war. that one essential qualification for the On my next visit to Dow Field, as I got off the big position to which I C-46 cargo plane, I was met by the president of the had been appointed synagogue and two members of the synagogue’s was immense tact and “a good reserve of common sense.” board of directors, who wanted to do their patriotic duty by placing the Torah in my hands. The PR officer at Dow Field By the first week in April, I was in Manchester, NH, had the base photographer and the local press on hand to headquarters of the North Atlantic Division of the Air mark the occasion and decided then and there to designate Transport Command. There I reported to Wing Chaplain my newly acquired Scroll as “The Flying Torah.” From then William V. Morgan, who gave me my assignment. I was to on, wherever I went, mention of the Flying Torah would be proceed by plane to Presque Isle, Maine, which was to be my made in the base newspapers. Some post engineers very immediate headquarters because of its proximity to the kindly constructed a portable chest into which I placed not Division’s bases overseas... only the Torah but also some prayer books, a bottle of wine, a kiddush cup, talleisim, yarmulkas, mezuzot and smaller A few days later, just before Passover, I was on my way to religious articles. Painted blue and gold (the colors of the the Army air base at Presque Isle, 400 miles to the north of Air Force), and marked with the words “Flying Torah” and a Manchester. From there, as I learned from the Wing Star of David in the center and the emblem of ATC in the Chaplain, I was to fly a 21,000 mile circuit covering almost a center, the chest was usually the first object to emerge from score of bases. In the north, there was Mingan, just above my plane and soon became well known throughout the Canada’s St Lawrence River and midway between Presque North Atlantic region. Isle and Goose Bay, Labrador; Crystal I and Crystal II (two bases on Baffin Island near Hudson Bay); Harmon and I recall stopping over at Bermuda and being met at the plane Gander Fields in Newfoundland; Greenland (with by the priorities and traffic officer, who pointed at the chest headquarters at Narsarssuak, BW-1; additional Greenland I was carrying and exclaimed, “Is that the Flying Torah?”

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 14 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 14 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR Soon the commanding officers at the various bases I visited was even a small parokhet. This was how I carried the Torah knew the words “Flying Torah” as readily as they knew their around most of my circuits in the North Atlantic region, own serial numbers; not infrequently, CO’s would ask me to from Greenland’s icy mountains to Bermuda’s coral strands. show them the Scroll inside the chest and explain its contents “while standing on one leg”, as it were. WACs, Wherever this portable Torah in its miniature Ark appeared Negro troops and native Eskimo workmen would be with me, it was a source of inspiration to Jewish servicemen encouraged by the officers to take a peek at the Holy Scroll who cherished it as a link with their own hometown on which the Jewish Holy Words were written. synagogues and as a symbol of Israel’s power to survive and blossom under all conditions and in all As time went on, the baggage I climates. It is safe to say that this carried with me on my tours Flying Torah saw a greater variety of became quite burdensome. In weather and temperature than any addition to the large, heavy Torah other Torah in existence at the time. It scroll in its chest, there were the is also reasonable to assume that in latest issues of a variety of some parts of th world this was the Yiddish and Anglo-Jewish first Scroll of the Law ever to have periodicals and the Hadoar made its appearance there. I could not Hebrew weekly, as well as supplies help remembering the story of the of kosher salami and canned martyred Hanina Ben Teradyon who foods. Besides, there was my was wrapped into a Scroll of the Law personal clothing: I had to take and burned at the stake by the with me both summer and winter Romans. According to tradition, his clothes because I might be in last words to his disciples were, “The Arctic Iceland one day and in parchment of this scroll may be subtropical Bermuda the next. burning, but the letters upon it are Clearly, something had to be done soaring heavenward.” In those dark to lighten the load. days, flames were devouring Scrolls of the Law in many parts of Nazi I looked around for a Torah scroll dominated Europe. Simultaneously, in smaller and lighter than the one symbolic defiance, in my hands there l e n t m e b y t h e B a n g o r was a Torah soaring over oceans and c o n g r e g a t i o n . D r. L o u i s icecaps to carry the Word of G-d Finkelstein, President of the Jewish Theological Seminary fighting for the preservation of freedom and justice. (where I had studied from 1929 until 1931), was kind enough to offer me the small Torah scroll which he kept in the Seminary’s chapel for his personal use. I sent the Bangor The Flying Torah was originally written for the Bar Mitzvah of Dr. Scroll back to its home synagogue and immediately had a Finkelstein’s son Ezra, in 1940. Dr. Finkelstein later gifted the Torah to new chest made for Prof. Finkelstein’s Torah in the form of Dr. Chaim Weizman to be presented to President Harry S Truman on a portable miniature Ark. When closed, this chest looked the occasion of the first official meeting between the President of the United like an ordinary suitcase, but when it was set up on end, a States and the President of the nascent State of Israel. The Torah has pair of doors, marked with the first ten letters of the remained on display at the Truman Library in Independence, Missouri, Hebrew alphabet to symbolize the Ten Commandments, until February of this year, when it was moved for temporary exhibition at opened from the center like the doors of a standard Ark of the National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia. the Law. Inside, there was an electric “Eternal Light” with a Chaplain Gordon passed away in 1977. cord which could be connected to any electric outlet. There Get Your Letter in a Torah Scroll Today

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VOL. XXIV NO. 5 15 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 15 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR e’re living in difficult times. There’s so much Recognizing that everything about their lives is out of their uncertainty. So many unanswered questions. So control, besides for the things they think and feel and what Wmany aspects of our lives are out of our control, they do about those thoughts and feelings. It's trusting. It's and maybe even completely out of control. I get it. We’re understanding that at any point the military spouse can get human beings. We were created to question, we yearn for called up and leave with just a few days notice. It's knowing knowledge and for the answers to life’s questions. We don’t that they can be moved to any place in the world whenever seem to know much of anything about our current situation, the higher authorities see it fit. It's creating bonds with those yet what we do know for certain is that we are all mostly stuck around them and learning to rely on those they never at home, kept apart from the friends and family and places in imagined would be the people they would become closest to. our lives that keep us grounded and connected. We know for It's letting go of expectations and the things they cannot certain that we are spending more time with ourselves and control while holding onto the things that make them feel our families and getting to know each other better than we safe, all at the same time. It's about finding the things that probably ever have, along with every nook and cranny along help keep their spirits up during difficult times and making the walls and floors in the interior of our homes. sure they have the support to pursue them. It's a life that requires faith, skill, humor, and e are naturally shadowed confidence. And above all, it requires with doubt in times of respect and determination. It takes Wdistress and each of us finds determination to make a great our own way to deal with the frustration COVID-19: situation out of a crummy one. It of just not knowing. Some have taken takes determination and a strong will on interesting hobbies while others may to adapt to whatever military life puts be feeling stifled. The introverts out An Ode to the before them. And that's just it. The there may be loving the “no pressure to military family can adapt. It can bend do anything” time at home, completely and sway, it can move from home to content not having to deal with other Military home, base to base, span time zones human beings, while the world of the and drastically different climates. It extrovert may be turned upside down can stand on its own two feet when and right side up again before they can the military spouse is away, sometimes figure out how to live indoors, without Family for months at a time. The military being surrounded and enlivened by family creates grounding roots other people’s energy. Some of us may Mrs. Mishi Harari, Ft Riley wherever it is planted yet it doesn’t have pursued our creative outlets and break down when it's uprooted, have possibly gone overboard with our whether physically or emotionally. out of the box ideas, and others may be feeling like their creative outlets have been stripped down to am constantly asked how I do it. How is it that I live this nothingness. military life, homeschooling, in the middle of nowhere, Iwithout the support of a Jewish community, moving all have heard many versions of how this pandemic has the time, my husband going away so often? My friends have affected people. I have heard those talk about how being told me time and again that they would never be able to do Iforced into homeschooling their kids has given them a what I do. They say they would never be able to live the life of completely new perspective on education and how they have a military family. Well friends, I beg to differ. You are all become inspired to continue the at-home learning when doing it right now, flexing those mental, emotional, spiritual things go back to what we call “normal”. And there are those and maybe even physical muscles. Look to the military family posts that we all read of those who feel as if they are for guidance. They will show you how to proceed in times of suffering immeasurably having to stay at home, educate, play uncertainty. You will learn from them how to gather strength with, talk to and entertain their kids on a non-stop cycle. No when there seems to be none left to gather and nowhere to judgements there. There are no adequate words to describe gather it from. We were born to succeed. We all have the the amount of emotional and mental energy it takes a person ability to do so and we each have our own set of skills to to do all of those things and still feel sane at the end of the reach the top. Don't tell me you can’t do what I do. You can day, if there even is an end to the day. and you are. It may seem out of your league, yet if you stop and take a look at yourself, you’ll see how much your life right et what is most remarkable to me is that we see so now parallels that of a military family’s. When the world is many people, so many families learning what every dropped into a pit of confusion, despair and frustration, it Ymilitary family already knows how to do. It's part can look to the military family to help pull it out, one strong, and parcel of what the military family is and what they do day grit-filled step at a time. in and day out. It's what is normal to them. Being flexible.

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 16 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 16 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR REFLECTIONS ON 25+ YEARS IN UNIFORM By SSG Brian Kresge

to Rabbi (Colonel, Retired) Eli Seidman, with whom I deployed to New Orleans with the Pennsylvania National Guard for Hurricane Katrina Relief.

Those little moments of beshert remind you that there is a n July of 2019, I hit a milestone: it was exactly benevolent Creator out there – Rabbi Seidman and I met twenty-five years from when I shipped to Fort when he arrived as a temporary chaplain for my battalion, IBenning, Georgia for One Station Unit Training and and spied me laying tefillin and davening in a corner of Airborne School, to become a parachute infantryman. the armory. As of March 27th, a few months shy of 26 years, I’ll be done. When a friend from the Maine Guard deployed to Poland this year, he was adjacent to units from Pennsylvania. On My time spanned days as an infantryman with the 101st, a a whim, he asked them if they knew me, and the response paratrooper with the 1st Battalion, 501st Parachute was, “Oh, the Hebrew Hammer!” Infantry Regiment in Alaska, the Pennsylvania Army National Guard, and the Maine Army National Guard, As nice as it is to be known and beloved in so many places, with breaks in service for college and graduate school. I have to admit I’m happy to leave that nickname behind.

As I prepare my “shadow box” to round out my “I Love These days, the kids we’re absorbing into our units are the Myself ” wall in my study, I realize that each award, same age as my oldest children, born well after I first decoration, or plaque represents not just my own service, enlisted. Some of them will fight in a war that started but they channel the memories of the people with whom before they were born. When friendships started shifting I did these things.

I have things to fill my time, now that my days of lacing up combat boots are done. I was elected President of our Bangor, Maine synagogue in November. I wrote a book and give lectures on “the kosher outdoors.” I recently released open source synagogue management software. And then there’s all the time I get to spend with my wife, Leah, and my children, Adrian, Amelia, and Nezzie, all of whom have patiently dealt with the divisions in my attentions.

But none of that fills the void of military friendships. I treasure all of them, from my buddy “Stretch,” with whom I jumped out of a SkyVan over British hedgerows,

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 17 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 17 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR started and completed daf yomi, the seven year study cycle of the entire Babylonian Talmud. I learned Hebrew and Yiddish. Today, in addition to being President of my shul, I frequently lead davening in our community, serve on the Chevra Kadisha, and work hard for Jewish causes, especially for Jews in Green (or blue, or khaki). (I was the founder and original administrator of the site by that name, and an administrator for the Facebook group that emerged from it.) Most people are surprised to find out that I came from a secular background.

To me, becoming observant and maturing as a soldier and leader were entirely complimentary. I think from camaraderie to paternal care and mentoring, I becoming a better Jew informed becoming a better realized that it was going to get harder and harder for me leader, and the reverse was true as well. What better to sustain this. metric for serving G-d than how we serve others?

And that’s because, of all the things about the last 25 I already miss drill weekends. My OCPs are still folded years, it’s the losses that are too much to bear. I think over the footboard of my bed. I haven’t been able to we’ve all lost friends. We’ve lost them to battles and war, bring myself to put them in the closet yet. I run my but the lost to their internal battles is profoundly difficult fingers over the infantry badge, my Airborne wings, and th to come to grips with. my Air Assault wings. I caress my 28 Infantry Division patch. How do you surrender something that has Starting with my good friend, James C. Wilson, a beloved constituted such a large part of your adult life, and been police officer who took his own life after our OIF such a driving part of who you are? How do you end that mobilization followed by an Afghanistan deployment, yearning to go out with your squad and break things, as my Pennsylvania Guard unit has lost a considerable we did in the good old days? number of people to suicide. These tragedies are a call to action for all of us, and I am grateful that our rabbinical I don’t have that answer, but I will figure it out. It’s been a chaplains have been leading from the front. It’s grand ride. something I’ve made a personal commitment to, between working with veterans in addiction recovery and those caught up in the criminal justice system. Judaism has a salve for moral injury and post-traumatic stress, and I’m glad that we’re bringing it to bear.

It’s not all maudlin. The most important part of the last 25 years, to me, has been how my Judaism has matured and grown in the same way my military service did.

I am matrilineally Jewish, but like so many of us, my grandmother was the last generation to go to shul. Establishing my religious preference for my dog tags was kind of a watershed moment, as in, “maybe I should do something about this.” I started going to services at Fort Benning, and again with the wonderful community at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

My ex-wife worked the desk at the hotel that Chabad of Anchorage, Alaska used for Shabbos and the high holidays (again, beshert). That’s when my true interest in becoming shomer mitzvot (Torah observant) began. I

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 18 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 18 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR I experienced this firsthand as a Chaplain. I was once counseling a Off the Captain (let’s call him Ken), who was deeply depressed because he and his wife could not have children. I followed Rabbi Arush’s advice and told him to Bookshelf: spend 30 minutes a day thanking G-d for all the amazing things in his life, A Review of Shalom including the fact that he and his wife couldn’t have children. Judging from his expression, he must have thought Arush’s “THE that I was completely insane. After all, who would thank G-d for such a sad GARDEN OF EMUNA” predicament? “Ken, Just do it!” I told him. I didn’t think he was going to CH (LTC) Yoni Zagdanski, USAR follow this advice, but he did. Two weeks later, Ken called me and almost could not utter the following words: This best-selling book teaches us about something we all take for “My wife is pregnant!” I am still in touch with Ken, and every now granted – Emuna (faith). Yet, this book is groundbreaking. Why? and then, he sends me pictures of his gorgeous daughter; I call her Because it is easy to have Emuna when things are going smoothly in the “miracle girl.” I too have experienced small miracles for simply our lives. But when we face major challenges or setbacks, Emuna thanking Hashem for seemingly “bad” things. sometimes flies out the window. There is a lot of pain out there: there are people right now experiencing severe illness, Another concept that Rabbi Arush writes about is Hashgacha unemployment, marital strife, divorce, death of a close relative, etc. Pratis – the belief that everything that happens is God’s will. (Even This book is about keeping your Emuna when life goes seriously though this concept seem to negate free will, it is consistent with the wrong. And given that we’re in the midst of the most widespread Maimonides’ first principle of faith and Tractate Hullin 7b.) It is pandemic in human history, it is very apropos. But I dare say that hard not to get angry when we see a parking ticket on our “The Garden of Emuna” is more than a book; it is a practical guide windshield; or when we see the neighbor’s trash all over our lawn; or for life. when our spouse misplaces the car keys (again), etc. But Rabbi Arush would say that we’re getting angry at the stick. But who is Many of the concepts in this book are drawn from the Zohar and wielding the stick? Hashem! He uses the stick to test us, to challenge the teachings of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, grandson of the Baal us and yes, sometimes to chastise us. Let’s talk to Hashem – not the Shem Tov. Rabbi Arush simply but masterfully explains these stick! spiritual concepts using modern language and scenarios that everyone can relate to. The reader will discover that Emuna is not Lastly, I connected with the concept of Hitbodedut , or self- something that you have or you don’t; rather, there are many shades reflection. Rabbi Arush says that only through daily Hitbodedut, of Emuna. But Rav Arush breaks down the levels of Emuna into can one strengthen his connection to Hashem. I must confess that I three general categories. A person can either have low, average, or have a very hard time connecting in synagogue, where there are so high levels of Emuna. The reader learns how to assess his level of many distractions. You might relate with the following thoughts I Emuna and how to move to a higher level. sometimes have in synagogue: “I can’t hear the Chazzan!”; “Why is he davening so slow/ fast?!”; “I can’t stand that tune!” “Can’t the The first concept that I personally connected with was the concept Rabbi see that everyone is asleep during his speech? Why does he go of gratitude no matter what. Rabbi Arush talks about the need to on with his speech?” and on, and on. thank Hashem equally for the good and for the seemingly bad. That, he says is the true definition of Emuna - having faith. Some of Hitbodedut is a time when you can just be yourself and talk to us have experienced a “bad” event, just to realize much later that in Hashem and say what is really in your heart. This is not just a fact, it had been a blessing in disguise. Rabbi Arush drives the point Breslov practice. Every Jew is required to perform a Cheshbon that saying thank you for the “bad” is not just a nice thing to do; it is Hanefesh (accounting of the soul) and analyze his actions of the a Mitzvah - see Tractate Brachot 60a. past 24 hours. This is the only way to improve our good (traits) and ditch our bad ones. Let’s be honest with ourselves. We Jews are pretty good at the art of complaining. Moses had to endure 40 years of complaining in the I could go on and on praising this important book. Take my word desert. G-d, as we see in the Torah, is not a big fan of complainers. for it: this book will change your life and the lives of your loved Why not? Because complaining is the exact opposite of gratitude. ones. And if you’re able to apply some of these concepts while When people complain, they are displaying a lack of faith. serving in a mentorship capacity, you might change the lives of the Soldiers that come to you for help, and perhaps even save a Soldier’s Rabbi Arush teaches that the more we complain, the more G-d life. gives us reasons to complain – in the form of hardships. But the more we thank G-d for everything, the more he showers us with Note: Sounds interesting? We will send you this book for free. Just email us at blessings. [email protected].

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 19 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 19 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 20 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 20 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 21 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 21 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR Lag Baomer Laws & Customs Celebrating the light of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai

Lag B'Omer, marked on the 18th day of the Jewish month of Iyar and the 33rd day of the Counting the Omer (May 11-12), is a day in which the semi-mourning restrictions between Passover and Shavuot cease. Weddings, haircuts, and listening to live music all become permitted. It is a joyful occasion, upon which many have the custom to light large bonfires at night and to go on excursions to the countryside in the day.

It marks the day of the passing of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, who lived in the second century of the Common Era. He was the first to publicly teach the mystical dimension of the Torah known as the Kabbalah, and is the author of the classic text of Kabbalah, the Zohar. On the day of his passing, Rabbi Shimon instructed his disciples to mark the date as “the day of my joy.” Because of this, there are major festivities in Meron, the mountain village in northern Israel where he is buried, with hundreds of thousands of pilgrims pouring in from all corners of the world to rejoice together in unity.

The chassidic masters explain that the final day of a righteous person’s earthly life marks the point at which all their deeds, teachings and work achieve their culminating perfection and the zenith of their impact upon our lives. So each Lag BaOmer, we celebrate Rabbi Shimon’s life and the revelation of the esoteric soul of Torah.

Lag BaOmer also commemorates another joyous event. The Talmud relates that in the weeks between the Jewish holidays of Passover and Shavuot, a plague raged among the disciples of the great sage Rabbi Akiva (teacher of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai), “because they did not act respectfully towards each other.” These weeks are therefore observed as a period of mourning, with various joyous activities proscribed by law and custom. On Lag BaOmer the deaths ceased. Thus, Lag BaOmer also carries the theme of loving and respecting one’s fellow (ahavat Yisrael).

It is customary to spend the day outside, enjoying the natural beauty of G-d’s world. During these outings, it is customary to play with bows and arrows. This commemorates the midrashic tradition that no rainbow was seen during Rabbi Shimon’s lifetime. Rainbows first appeared after Noah’s flood, when G-d promised to never again devastate the world. When people are deserving of punishment, G-d sends a rainbow instead. Rabbi Shimon’s merit protected the world, rendering the rainbow superfluous.

The mourning practices of the Omer period (see above) are lifted for this day. As a result, music is played and people sing and dance with abandon. Little boys who turned three during the Omer period but did not have their first haircut (upsheren) due to the mourning laws, have them today, often at Meron. Weddings are held as well.

Recognizing the fiery spirit of the mystical teachings that are celebrated today, bonfires are kindled. Get some friends (and a guitar) together, and it becomes a wonderful opportunity for singing, sharing and enjoying each other’s camaraderie.

Customary foods for the day include carob (which miraculously sustained Rabbi Shimon and his son when they were hiding from the Romans) and eggs (a sign of mourning).

Beginning in the 1950s, the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, encouraged Jewish children to join together in grand Lag BaOmer parades as a show of Jewish unity and pride. Held in front of the Lubavitch World Headquarters in Brooklyn, New York, the parades attracted—and still attract—thousands of children from all walks of life.

In 1980 the Rebbe gave instructions that Lag BaOmer parades and children’s rallies should take place not only in New York, but across the world, especially in Israel. Thousands of children participated in the tens of rallies that took place that year, and to this day, Chabad organizes hundreds of Lag BaOmer parades around the world every year. This year, you will be able to find parades and concerts held to celebrate Lag BaOmer across the world, streaming online.

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 22 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 22 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR

SHAVUOT IS ON May 29-30

declaration “Na'aseh V'Nishma – we will THE ROLE OF CHILDREN havuot is the second of the three do and we will listen – was the Smajor festivals (Passover being the commitment necessary to our proper Our Sages tell us that before G-d gave the first and Sukkot the third) and comes approach to receiving the Torah and Torah to the Jewish people, He demanded exactly fifty days after Passover (6-7 Sivan; performing its Mitzvos. The Jewish guarantors. The Jews made a number of this year, beginning at sundown on May 28 person understands that G-d's Torah has suggestions, all rejected by G-d, until they infinite wisdom beyond the grasp of through sunset May 30). The Torah was declared, "Our children will be our human intellect, and even when the given by G-d to the Jewish people on guarantors that the Jewish people will Mount Sinai over 3,300 years ago. Every reasons for the Mitzvos seem to be beyond our understanding, we must still cherish and observe the Torah." G-d year on this day we renew our acceptance fulfill them. immediately accepted them and agreed to of G-d's gift. give the Torah. Jewish continuity is The only common factor throughout defined by Jewish education for our The word Shavuot means "weeks". It Jewish history, in all lands and under all children. marks the completion of the seven weeks circumstances, is the Torah and Mitzvos between Passover and Shavuot (the which Jews have observed tenaciously. WHAT IS THE TORAH? “Omer” period) during which the Jewish The secret of our existence is in our being people prepared themselves for the giving “a people that dwell singularly,” every one The Torah is composed of two parts: the of the Torah. During this time they of us, man and woman, believing in One Written Law and the Oral Law. The cleansed themselves of the scars of G-d, leading a life according to One written Torah contains the Five Books of Torah, which is eternal and unchanging. slavery and became a holy nation ready to Only through the Torah can we fulfill our Moses, the Prophets and the Writings. enter into an eternal covenant with G-d function imposed on us by the Creator, to Together with the Written Torah, Moses with the giving of the Torah. be unto G-d a “kingdom of priests and a was also given the Oral Law which holy nation,” thereby being also a explains and clarifies the Written law. It Shavuot also means "oaths": with the “...treasure for all humanity.” was transmitted orally from generation to giving of the Torah, the Jewish people and generation and eventually transcribed in G-d exchanged oaths, forming an Each year, Shavuot is the time for us to the Talmud and Midrash. everlasting covenant not to forsake one reawaken and strengthen our relationship another. with G-d. We can do so by rededicating The word “Torah” means instruction or ourselves to the observance and study of guide. The word “mitzvah” means both the Torah – our most precious heritage. THE GIVING OF THE TORAH commandment and connection. There are

613 commandments. Our Sages teach us The giving of the Torah was a far-reaching On this day we received a gift from Above that the positive commandments (what we spiritual event - one that touched the which we could not have achieved with are instructed to do), numbering 248, are essence of the Jewish soul then and for all our own limited faculties. We received the equivalent to the number of organs in the time. Our Sages have compared it to a ability to reach and touch the Divine; not human body. T he 365 neg ative wedding between G-d and the Jewish only to be cultivated human beings, but commandments (what we are told not to people. Divine human beings who are capable of rising above and beyond the limitations of do) are equivalent to the number of blood On Shavuot, Almighty G-d revealed nature. vessels in the human body. himself to give the Torah on Mt. Sinai in the year 2,448 after creation. The Jewish Through the study of Torah and

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fulfillment of mitzvahs we connect Shavuot is also called “Atzeret”, meaning candles on each eve of the holiday, ourselves and our environment to G-d. “The Completion”, because together prayer services on the eves and G-d's purpose in creating the world is with Passover it forms the completion of mornings of the holiday, the reading that we sanctify all of creation, imbuing it a unit. We gained our freedom on and study of the Ten Commandments with holiness and spirituality. Passover in order to receive the Torah on and other portions of the Torah, and Shavuot. festive meals with appropriate blessings LISTENING TO THE TORAH over wine or grape juice (“Kiddush”) Another name for Shavuot is Yom and Challah bread. The Kabbalists explain that when the Habikurim, “the Day of the First Fruits”. Torah is read in the synagogue on In an expression of thanks to G-d, CUSTOMARY FOODS Shavuot, G-d is actually giving the Torah beginning on Shavuot, each farmer in the It is customary to eat dairy food on the anew. Therefore every Jewish man, Land of Israel brought an offering to the first day of Shavuot in addition to the woman and especially children should Temple of the first wheat, barley, grapes, make every effort to be present in a required meals of wine (or grape juice), figs pomegranates, olives and dates that bread, fish and meat. (Obviously, all synagogue on the first day of Shavuot, as grew in his field. religious laws apply against mixing or the Ten Commandments are read from eating meat and dairy together.) the Torah. Finally, Shavuot is also called Chag HaKatzir, “the Festival of the Harvest”, SLEEPLESS NIGHT WHY WAS THE TORAH GIVEN because wheat, the last of the grains to be IN THE DESERT? ready to be cut, was harvested at this time Many Jews observe a tradition of of the year. remaining awake all night on the first The Torah was given freely, in an night of the holiday to engage in the ownerless public place. If it had been study of Torah. There are several given in the land of Israel, the nations of reasons for this custom: the world would say that they have no portion in it. 1. Sleep is a state of subconsciousness. The Jewish people, imagining the Why was Mount Sinai chosen to be the holiness and power of revelation, site for the giving of the Torah? concluded that no matter how lofty their conscious minds rose they could The conventional answer is that the not properly pre pare for the choice of Mount Sinai was to teach us supernatural revelation of G-d and His humility, since Mount Sinai was the most Torah. They therefore chose a state of humble of all mountains. If so, why was it sleep to completely leave their physical, not given in a low lying valley? Surely that SHAVUOT IS AN OFFICIALLY limited consciousness and enter a more would have been a stronger lesson in RECOGNIZED HOLIDAY spiritual / transcendent state. G-d's humility? direction however demands for us to Military regulations have established experience the Torah within our Hence, we learn that a Jew must be able to that legitimate days of work physical limited space – to enter the distinguish between being proud and proscription for Jewish military lower world with G-dliness. Hence, we being arrogant. Arrogance is distasteful. personnel include both days of the need to stay up all night to rectify the Being proud of one's roots is a virtue. Shavuot holiday. As with all Jewish misguided, however lofty, sleep. The Torah therefore, was given on a h o l i d a y s, t h e h o l i d a y b e g i n s humble mountain. approximately at sundown of the 2. One Midrashic source states that on previous day (evening of Thursday, the night preceding the giving of the ADDITIONAL NAMES FOR May 28th) and ends after dark of the Torah many of the people of Israel fell SHAVUOT last of the holy days, Saturday, May complacently asleep. They did not 30th. eagerly anticipate the world-shaking Shavuot is known as Zman Matan event that was about to unfold. This Torateinu, “the Time of the Gifting of SHAVUOT OBSERVANCE callous indifference was an affront to our Torah”. G-d. In order to amend (Tikun in The proper observance of the Shavuot Hebrew) the wrong of our forefathers, holiday entails the lighting of holiday we remain awake the entire night, VOL. XXIV NO. 5 24 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 24 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR Shavuot we remain awake the entire night, awaiting the dawn of the next day when we celebrate the receiving of the Torah at Mt. Sinai.

3. According to the Zohar, the seminal Kabbalistic work, Shavuot is described as the wedding day of the people of Israel (the bride) and the Torah (the groom.) Much had to be done by the bride to prepare herself spiritually for her wedding day. As a dowry the People of Israel brought to their marriage their hours of study during the previous evening. Accompanied by this “trousseau” of learning, the Jewish people came to their betrothed with the full recognition and appreciation of His virtues and Candle-lighting for value. Shavuot

Thursday night, May 28 Light candles 18 minutes before sunset. If lighting candles after sunset, light only from pre-existing flame.*

Friday night, May 29 Light candles 18 minutes before sunset. Do not light candles after Cheese Snacks for Shavuot sunset. *Flame that has been burning continuously since the onset of the holiday such as a pilot Aleph is offering a very limited amount of Cheese light, gas or candle flame. If a pre-existing flame is not available, one may ask a non- Snacks for Jewish Active Duty or deployed military Jew to light a new flame. personnel in honor of Shavuot. After lighting the candles, say blessings 1 & 2 below on both days. On Friday In addition, we offer monthly kosher grape juice and night, add the appropriate words in challah packages to those bases in which there is no parenthesis.

local access to these kosher supplies. (For those who Blessings: would like to order Challah, please ensure that you Bo-ruch A-toh Ado-noi E-lo-hei-nu have a freezer available prior to ordering.) Please Me-lech Ha-olam.. . coordinate all such orders with your local Jewish 1) ...A-sher Ki-de-sha-nu Be-mitz-vo- chaplain or Jewish Lay Leader. sov Vi-tzi-vo-nu Le-had-lik Ner Shel [On Friday night add: “Shabbos V’shel”] Yom Tov Email [email protected] to order these items for the holiday. 2) She-heh-che-yoh-nu Vi-ki-ye-mo- nu Ve-he-ge-o-nu Liz-man Ha-zeh

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 25 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 25 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR

The 3rd of Tammuz: 26th anniversary of the passing of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson 3 Tammuz marks the Yahrzeit/Hillula (Anniversary of l a u n c h i n g o f the passing) of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem sweeping new efforts M. Schneerson, of righteous memory (1902-1994). The in bolstering and Rebbe, the seventh leader in the Chabad-Lubavitch disseminating Torah dynasty, is considered to have been the most influential a n d J u d a i s m i n Jewish personality of modern times. To hundreds of g e n e r a l , a n d thousands of followers and millions of sympathizers and Chassidic teachings admirers around the world, he was -- and still is, despite his in particular, through passing -- undoubtedly the one individual more than any the establishment of other singularly responsible for stirring the conscience t h r e e c e n t r a l and spiritual awakening of world Jewry over the past organizations under hundred years. the Rebbe's leadership: Merkos L'Inyonei Chinuch ("Central Organization For Jewish Education"), Kehot The Rebbe was born in 1902, on the 11th day of Nissan, in Publication Society, and Machne Israel, a social services Nikolaev, Russia, to the renowned kabbalist, talmudic agency. Shortly after his arrival, per his father-in-law's scholar and leader Rabbi Levi Yitzchak and Rebbetzin urging, the Rebbe began publishing his notations to Chana Schneerson. The Rebbe was named after his great- various Chassidic and kabbalistic treatises, as well as a wide grandfather, the third Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel range of responsa on Torah subjects. With the publication of Lubavitch, with whom he shared many characteristics. of these works, his genius was soon recognized by scholars throughout the world. The Rebbe’s mother recounted a story in her son’s early life that seems to be symbolic of everything that was to After the passing of his father-in-law in 1950, the Rebbe follow. When he was nine years old, the young Menachem reluctantly ascended to the leadership of the Lubavitch Mendel courageously dove into the Black Sea and saved movement. Soon Lubavitch institutions and activities the life of a little boy who had fallen out of a canoe and took on new dimensions. The outreach philosophy of was foundering in the riptide. That sense of responsibility Chabad-Lubavitch was translated into ever greater action, for others dominated his consciousness; for those in as Lubavitch centers, Chabad Houses, schools, camps and physical danger as well as Jews drowning in assimilation, institutions of all kinds to support Jews and Judaism were ignorance or alienation, with no one hearing their cries for opened in thousands of cities around the world. help. On Monday afternoon (March 2, 1992), while praying at From early childhood he displayed a prodigious mental the gravesite of his father-in-law and predecessor, the acuity. By the time he reached his Bar Mitzvah, the Rebbe Rebbe suffered a stroke that paralyzed his right side and was considered a Torah prodigy. He spent his teen years robbed him of the ability to speak. Two years and three immersed in the study of Torah. months later, the Rebbe passed away in the early morning hours of the 3rd of the Hebrew month of Tammuz, in the In 1929, Rabbi Menachem Mendel married the sixth year 5754 from creation (June 12, 1994), orphaning a Lubavitcher Rebbe's daughter, Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka, generation. in Warsaw. He later studied in the University of Berlin and then at the Sorbonne in Paris, continuing his Torah study With the Rebbe's teachings propelling his students to ever while working on his degree in electrical engineering greater accomplishments and his nonstop work ethic under the tutelage of Nobel Prize laureates. serving as a beacon to emulate, Lubavitch has rapidly grown to be a worldwide presence, and all its various On Monday, Sivan 28, 5701 (June 23, 1941), the Rebbe and activities are stamped with his vision. Small wonder then, the Rebbetzin arrived in the United States, having been that many ask, "What is it about his leadership that was -- miraculously rescued, by the grace of Almighty G-d, from and, in so many ways, still is -- so unique? Why do leading the European holocaust. The Rebbe's arrival marked the personalities of the day maintain such profound respect

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 26 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 26 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR The 3rd of Tammuz: 26th anniversary of Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson’s passing and admiration for him?” community has been excluded -- young and old; men and women; leader and layman; scholar and laborer; student Many leaders recognize the need of the moment and and teacher; children, and even infants. respond with courage and directions. This is their forte -- and an admirable one. Other great leaders are blessed with He had an uncanny ability to meet everyone at their own the ability of perceptive foresight -- knowing what level -- he advised Heads of State on matters of national tomorrow will bring a n d i n t e r n a t i o n a l and how to best importance, explored prepare. Still others with professionals the excel in yet a third complexities in their d i s t i n c t a r e a , o w n f i e l d s o f possessing a keen expertise, and spoke to sense of history and small children with t r a d i t i o n ; t h e i r warm words and a a d v i c e a n d fatherly smile. l e a d e r s h i p i s molded by a great With extraordinary sensitivity to the insight, he perceived past. the wealth of potential in each person. His B u t o n e w h o i n s p i r a t i o n , n o w possesses all three accessible through his qualities is truly writings and videos, unique, standing boosts the individual's alone in leadership. self-perception, ignites Such was the Lubavitcher Rebbe. Radiating a keen sense his awareness of that hidden wealth and motivates a desire of urgency, he demanded much from his followers, and to fulfill his potential. In the same way, many a community even more from himself. The Rebbe led, above else, by has been transformed by the Rebbe's message, and been example. given -- directly or indirectly -- a new sense of purpose and confidence. In each case the same strong, if subtle, He was a rare blend of prophetic visionary and pragmatic message is imparted: "You are Divinely gifted with leader, synthesizing deep insight into the present needs of enormous strength and energy -- actualize it!” the Jewish people with a breadth of vision for its future. In a sense, he charted the course of Jewish history -- His ultimate goal has yet to be reached: the attainment of initiating, in addition to reacting to, current events. The the Messianic Era, and along with it, a world free of all the Rebbe was guided by inspired insight and foresight in ills that we know of: hatred, war and sickness; changed by a combination with encyclopedic scholarship, and all his universal tangible cognizance of the Creator that brought pronouncements and undertakings were, first and us all into existence. His promise that such a time is coming foremost, rooted in our holy Torah. Time and again, what soon rings as a clarion bell, along with his request of every was clear to him at the outset became obvious to other person: Add in acts of goodness and kindness, add in leaders with hindsight, decades later. Torah and Mitzvot, to make this world a G-dly one.

From the moment the Rebbe arrived in America in 1941, His published works number in the hundreds, translated his brilliance at addressing himself to the following ideal into dozens of languages. Thousands of hours of video became apparent: He would not acknowledge division or footage of his talks and interactions with people of all separation. Every Jew -- indeed every human being -- has a walks of life are available online. And while and his wife unique role to play in the greater scheme of things and is left no physical children, their impact is felt in an ongoing an integral part of the tapestry of G-d's creation. basis within the hundreds of thousands of those proud to call themselves his followers. Even beyond the nearly five decades of his leadership, the Rebbe's goal to reach out to every corner of the world with love and concern increased dramatically. No sector of the

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 27 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 27 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR The Mitzvah of lighting Shabbat Candles build tabernacles on Shabbat. From all this we can figure out a lot of things that we are not supposed to do—such as anything that’s involved in building a tabernacle. But regarding what we are supposed to do, not a word.

It seems that the Moses crowd just knew—perhaps by intuition, perhaps by tradition. The prophet Isaiah, however, does elaborate a little on what Shabbat entails. His audience was, after all, a little more distant from the light of Sinai—and so needed things spelled out. He says, “If you restrain your foot because of the Sabbath, from performing your affairs on My holy day, and you will call the Sabbath ‘a delight’ and G-d’s holy day ‘honored’ . . .” So, Shabbat is a day we are to honor and delight in. But how do you honor and he Torah enjoins us to “honor the Shabbat and call it a delight in it? Apparently, Isaiah’s audience delight.” Now one element of this “delight” is to have needed no further explanation. But in Talmudic times, things candles lit. In addition to creating a bright and cheery got to the point that it was necessary for the rabbis to spell out ambianceT , the candles ensure that we don’t spend the evening every word: you honor the Shabbat with clean clothes, and stumbling around in the dark. The Torah clearly tells us that we delight in it with fine food and drink. may not kindle fire on Shabbat. So the key is to light the delight- giving candles before the onset of the day. Lighting Shabbat Now, here’s where the Shabbat candles come in: Have you ever candles is one of the seven rabbinic commandments. The sat down to a delicious meal in the dark? Not too much fun. mystics explain that Shabbat is the day that brings illumination Who knows what that fork may end up piercing? But, worst of to our world, which so often seems to be dark and negative. all, even the finest cuisine becomes a drab affair when you can’t Furthermore, candles are a metaphor for Torah and for the see the colors, textures and forms of those delicious morsels. human soul. The Shabbat candles represent the light we We are visual creatures, and even our capacity to derive pleasure introduce into the world through studying Torah and observing from our food is tied to our visual experience. “A blind person,” its precepts. And they also represent the additional soul that our the rabbis say, “is never satisfied from his food.” And so, as long sages say we are given on Shabbat. as Jews were interested in “calling the Shabbat a day of delight,” they must have had a lamp lit for the nighttime meal. It had to be Is it actually written in Torah to light Shabbat candles? lit beforehand, since—as we are told explicitly—we cannot create a fire on Shabbat. And since it is the woman who The most precious things in life are said silently. Those who generally takes the responsibilities of the home, presumably she need to understand—those who are not strangers, those who took the responsibility for the lamp. hear the words from the inside—understand. Similarly with Shabbat: when G-d gave it to us, He did not need to spell out its Yet it seems that later down the line, there were Jews who felt most precious customs. okay skimping on the visual experience. Maybe the cost of oil was escalating. True, you can’t eat a meal without light and enjoy Take a look: whenever the Torah mentions Shabbat, it always it. But people said, “Let’s just eat it that way anyway, and say we seems to be assuming that we know what it’s talking about. The did.” Now, if people don’t want to enjoy, it’s hard to tell them, Torah admonishes us to “keep the Shabbat” and “remember the “You must enjoy!” But sitting in a dark home all Shabbat creates Shabbat.” We are to rest on the seventh day from the work of other problems. Shabbat is meant to be a day of peace and the other six, and so are our servants and domesticated animals. harmony. A dark house, with people tripping over every unseen Don’t make a fire. There’s a strong implication that we don’t obstacle and falling all over each other is not conducive to peace

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and harmony. themselves, don’t yet accept the Shabbat until a bit later, and are free to continue in “weekday mode” almost until Shabbat begins So, at some unspecified point in history, for the sake of shalom (at sunset) or until they accept Shabbat upon themselves earlier bayit (family harmony), the spiritual leaders of the generation before sunset (e.g., through praying the Shabbat prayers anytime made a distinct requirement that every home must have a lamp after Plag Haminchah). Those who already lit Shabbat candles lit before Shabbat in every room where people may walk and may ask someone who did not yet accept Shabbat to do labor bump into things. They declared that anyone who would be that they themselves may not do. It is important to note that careful with it would be blessed with children who would be even someone who does not accept Shabbat early by candle- Torah scholars, as the verse states, “For a mitzvah is a lamp, and lighting may not wait until the last moment, and must accept the the Torah is light.” They interpreted this to mean that through Shabbat a bit before sunset. When we add to Shabbat, we are the mitzvah of the lamp would come the light of Torah. essentially taking time from the mundane workweek and Nevertheless, the principal lamp is the one that shines over the transforming it into something that is holy. This reflects the Shabbat meal. The other lamps can be replaced today with entire purpose of creation—making the mundane world into a electric lights, but the light by the meal should be a burning more spiritual and holy place flame. Who lights Candles? In a strict military setting, the Shabbat candles may be lit in the chapel (if that is the only place where an open flame The basic custom is that the woman of the house lights two is allowed) as long as there is some food eaten there, even candles. Many women have the custom to add an additional though the full Shabbat meal may not actually be eaten in candle for each child. The age-old custom was that young girls the chapel. However, it is best if the Shabbat candles are lit in also lit candles. This custom was all but lost in the poverty and the same area as the full Shabbat dinner is eaten, if at all possible. displacement that followed World War I. In 1974, the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, of righteous memory, Now you can see that the Shabbat lamp, even though it is encouraged all Jewish girls (from approximately three years of technically a rabbinic institution, has always been an integral age) to light their own Shabbat and holiday candles with the part of the Shabbat. Our tradition is that Abraham and Sarah consent of their parents. Until marriage, girls light one candle. kept the entire Torah even though it was not yet given. They And the Rebbe encouraged parents to purchase a special knew the Torah from their understanding of the inner candlestick just for them. If there are no women in the mechanics of the universe. Sarah lit the Shabbat candles, as did household or military base, a male in the household becomes Rebecca, Rachel and Leah. It’s reasonable to believe that at no responsible to the light the candles. time in our history did a Friday night pass without that light. Why Light Two (or More) Shabbat Candles? When Do We Light Shabbat Candles? it should be noted that although the prevalent custom is to light Candles are lit to honor Shabbat on Friday evening before at least two candles, strictly speaking you can fulfill the mitzvah sunset. In order to be sure that we do not kindle fire on Shabbat, of Shabbat candle-lighting with even one candle. That said, the the standard practice is to light the candles 18 minutes before custom is indeed to light multiple candles. The basic reason why the sun sets and the holy day begins. According to Jewish Law we light two candles for Shabbat is that they correspond to the you can light candles as early as one hour and 10 minutes before two forms of the mitzvah of Shabbat. In Exodus we are told, sunset at a time we call Plag Hamincha. Shabbat candles that are “Remember (zachor) the day of Shabbat and make it holy.” This lit earlier than one hour and 10 minutes before sunset do not encompasses all of the positive commandments associated with fulfill the requirement of lighting Shabbat candles. For example sanctifying Shabbat. In Deuteronomy, we are instructed, “Keep if sunset is a at 7:40 pm, you would only be able to light Shabbat (shamor) the day of Shabbat and make it holy.” This candles after 6:20 pm on that Friday. Shabbat Candles should encompasses all of the negative prohibitions associated with never be lit after sunset under any circumstances (even if a non- Shabbat. To represent our acceptance of both aspects of Jew lights them). Lighting the candles after sundown is a grave Shabbat observance, we light two candles. Some explain that the sin and a desecration of the Shabbat. reason for lighting at least two candles is based on the Talmudic teaching that on Shabbat we receive an additional soul, which The custom is that when the person lights the Shabbat candles imbues us with an extra sense of holiness and spirituality early, they usher in the Shabbat for themselves, and desist from throughout the day. The additional candle corresponds to the all forbidden work until after Shabbat. However, others who are second soul. relying on those candles to fulfill their own obligation (like family members of one household) who are not lighting candles While the widespread custom is to light at least two candles for

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Shabbat, many women have the custom to light more candles in Shabbat candles on the eve of Shabbat in the tent she shared the home setting. For a soul is compared to a candle, as it says, with Abraham, and the candles would miraculously burn from “The candle of G-d is the soul of man.” Likewise, “a candle is a one Friday to the next. Thus the pleasant sight of Sarah's mitzvah and the Torah is light”—so through the mitzvah of candles greeted the many guests that visited Abraham and lighting Shabbat candles, one will merit the light of Torah. Sarah's tent throughout the week. Based on this soul-candle comparison, the most common custom is that in addition to the two basic candles, an additional When Sarah passed away, the flames of her Shabbat candles candle is lit for every child that is born (e.g., if there are three were extinguished. A few years later, when Isaac saw that the children, five candles are lit). Shabbat candles of his prospective wife, Rebecca, had the same miraculous ability to continue burning roughout the week, he The importance of lighting Shabbat candles cannot be understood that she was Sarah's righteous successor, and he overstated. As mentioned above, the basic purpose of the wed her happily. Shabbat candles is to bring increased peace into our homes. But it goes deeper than that. The Midrash tells us that G-d says, “If The Eternal Jew you kindle the Shabbat lights, I will show you the marvelous A Letter Sent to the Lubavitcher Rebbe radiance that will shine upon Jerusalem at the final redemption.” In other words, the lighting of the Shabbat candles hastens the Honorable Rabbi: final redemption, when there will be peace in the entire world. May we merit this speedily in our days! I have a Hannukkah story to tell you. Exactly ten years ago, during the Festival of Lights, though I didn’t know about the How to Light Shabbat Candles importance of it then, I met my soul mate. It was also on her birthday which we later found out to be on the second day of ● Before the candle-lighting time, set up the candles. tea lights, this Festival. Without going into great detail about our lives and and most other standard candles are acceptable, provided that backgrounds, I will simply tell you that I was raised a Protestant, they burn long enough for you to enjoy their light after night has later I joined Catholicism, and my partner in life was raised fallen agnostic but was born Jewish. This was definitely determined, as ● Put some money in a charity box and set the box aside. her mother and grandmother and great grandmother were all ● Light the candles Jewish. By the time we met, each of us had undergone great ● Don’t blow out the match. Instead, drop it onto a fireproof trials in our personal lives and had sought G-d each in our own surface. way. ● Bring your hands to your face, and cover your eyes with your palms. For two years we lived together in relative happiness, but after a ● Say the blessing while we realized that we had to find a religious community that would accept us and where we could find spiritual fulfillment. Baruch A-tah Ado-nai E-lo-hei-nu Me-lech Ha-olam A-sher Ki-de-sha- Our search took us to many places of worship in many different nu Be-mitz-vo-tav Ve-tzi-va-nu Le-had-lik Ner Shel Sha-bbat Ko-desh. communities and different cities. I could not renounce my Christianity, Pamela could not embrace it. Finally in a small Blessed are You, Lord our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us Reform Jewish Temple, there was some acceptance, where Pam with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the light of the holy could worship the God of Israel and where I could at least Shabbat. acknowledge that I was a Christian. But it wasn’t right, it wasn’t good and neither of us was happy with our religious life. The ● Glance at the candles and then whisper silent prayers for journey was arduous and painful, we quarreled, and we cried and yourself, for your family, your community and for anyone and we tried to put it aside. Pam insisted that she loved me enough, everyone in the world she was finally willing to embrace Christianity and make it her ● Uncover your eyes and wish those around you, “good own. Of course I was delighted! Shabbos” or “Shabbat shalom”! ● At this point you have accepted Shabbat upon yourself and no We decided to speak first with the Rabbi of the Temple that we fire may be kindled or handled. had been attending for some three months; however, while we were honest about my religion, we were not yet ready to reveal to How Long Have We Been Lighting Them? our member-congregants that we were living together as a married couple. But in our meeting with the rabbi, we finally The first woman to light Shabbat candles was our matriarch revealed the truth about our relationship, and were shocked and Sarah. According to Jewish tradition, Sarah would light the very hurt when we realized that although he was not opposed

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terribly to Pam’s conversion—he did his best to try to persuade matter our attendance at my prayer group, Pamela, not I, she me to convert to Judaism—he was completely opposed to our stressed, should continue to light a candle for the Sabbath every love. He claimed biblical sources, even though we knew he did Friday evening. not consider the bible an authoritative dictum. Very simply, he couldn’t accept us, and we had to leave. We realized then that And Pamela did that. there was no place in a Jewish community for us, and this made Pamela all the more certain that she could leave it behind her And then on the first day of Hanukkah Mrs. Shaffer called us forever. and told Pamela that she had a Hannukkah gift for us. She brought us a “mezzuzah” for our door. She said that every That first Christmas there was no celebration of Hannukkah. Jewish person must have one, and she said that it didn’t matter No gifts, and no lights, and no cards even to her family. that Pamela was living with a Christian person. And during that conversation, we discovered that Pamela’s birthday was on the The second Christmas was no different. second day of Hannukkah.

The third Christmas was. On Thanksgiving Day we were Pamela lit the Menorah for the first time that Hannukah, a little walking on 65th Street all the way to the end on the West Side. Menorah that Mrs. Shaffer brought us. And then she continued We found ourselves in front of Lincoln Square Synagogue and lighting her candle for the Sabbath every Friday. suddenly Pamela wanted to go inside. For no reason at all, she just said “Let’s go inside,” and I complied with her wishes. Without fail, ever.

It was a fateful step for her. For us. Slowly we realized that Pamela would never renounce her religion, and we never talked about it very much. With her We walked into a small hall where there was a lecture in progress lighting her candle, I could not bring myself to hurt her and we about raising Jewish children. I remember vividly a Rabbi B. finally were able to put aside our religious differences. Greenberg spoke about traditional values; and then another woman, Mrs. Bronya Shaffer, spoke about the quest for a holy That’s not the end of the story. life in a wondrous material world. She was a Hasid and a member of the Lubavitch Rabbi’s congregation, and she My Pamela died on her birthday, the second day of the Festival changed the course of our life. of Lights, three years ago. Her family disowned her long ago, and it was left to me, her only family, to see to her final resting Pamela and I spoke with Mrs. Shaffer for a long time, mostly place. A Christian burial was the obvious, but at the last minute, I asking questions about the spiritual avenues open for Jewish noticed the silver case on our doorpost, and in my mind could women. I had never met as compassionate and caring a person see her candle burning, and I realized that I had to turn to a as Mrs. Shaffer, and in a very short time we were openly and Rabbi of the Jewish faith to see to her burial. The Chaplain at honestly telling her about our love and our plans for the future, the hospital in which she left this life saw to the details. I did not including someday marriage in a church. Mrs. Shaffer attend. I mourned her privately at home and in my church, and I acknowledged with respect my religion, and even acknowledged mourn her still. with respect Pamela’s desire to become a Christian, but she insisted on one thing. She told Pamela that if she was seriously The little crystal candlestick stands by my bed, forever unlit. contemplating such a drastic change in her life, it must be done in honesty, as a Jew. Light a candle for the Sabbath, she told The little rolled-up scroll that always hung on our living room Pamela. Do it just once. It’s what Jewish women do. And then do door was buried with her. And the silver mezuzah case I am it again. And then do it again. And again. And keep doing it until sending to you. it’s comfortable and you know that it’s a part of you. Then, you can think about changing that you. Because right now you’re not May her soul rest in peace. My Pamela, spurned by her family even comfortable with the you that you know. It’s from a and friends and religion, found some comfort in your teachings. darkness that you are making a change. But life changes should She was born a Jew, and she finally lived as a Jew, and she was always take place in the light of day, not darkness . . . light is buried as a Jew. knowledge. So create your light, and then think about your change in that light. May G-d bless her. May G-d bless you, Honorable Rabbi, and may God bless your congregation. The conversation continued. She emphasized that no matter what we did before or after, no matter our partnership, no And may God bless Bronya Shaffer.

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 31 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 31 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR The Mitzvah of lighting Shabbat Candles lots of singing, I felt a little more inspired. But I still could not Sister Patricia Morgan get Sharon out of my head.

Ed. Note: This letter was written by a Catholic nun, whose name has been Upon returning home that night, I thought of what I might say changed here to protect her privacy. Many of the facts in this story are of to Sharon when I got home. Then it dawned on me. Who am I to course not consistent with Jewish law. We did not make any alterations since judge her? What business do I have to ”force” her to do a this is an actual story and the original text of the actual letter sent by this Mitzvah? How do I know what she is going through or the individual. hardships she is facing bringing up her daughter by herself?

Getting Even with the Shabbat Candles As I was pondering these thoughts, I was nearing home and eager to get the kids into bed. As I opened the door to my home, By Shternie Althaus I saw an interesting but delightful surprise. Sharon was curled up on my sofa reading a book about the modern Jewish woman, One balmy Friday afternoon just before candle lighting time, my written in Hebrew, based on the teachings of Rabbi Menachem Israeli babysitter knocked on the door. She was to babysit my Mendel Schneerson. She was so engrossed in reading that she one year old and four year old as I would accompany my two did not notice me standing there in shock. As soon as she older children to a family Bar Mitzvah dinner. I was looking realized that I was home, she immediately got up from the sofa forward all week to getting dressed up and visiting my family and asked if she could borrow the book. living on Bondi Beach, in Sydney, Australia. Being that the synagogue and dinner was down a long hill, I got my flats on and We exchanged pleasantries about our respective evenings (hers comfortable shoes for the kids. The house was spotless and the being alone in my home) and she said to me, "I have been smell of Shabbat pervaded the air. I checked that everyone was thinking. Why am I so angry at the Shabbat candles? What have still tucked in and ready to go. I struck a match and got ready to they ever done to me? I am sorry I got so mad at them before.” I say the blessing on my Shabbat candles when a thought popped assured her she could make up for it if she lit them happily next into my head. I raced to get another candlestick ready for week, which, of course, she agreed to do. Then she added, “I Sharon, our babysitter, and quickly set it on the gleaming silver couldn't help noticing this book written in Hebrew about the tray. power of a Jewish Woman. I assure you that next week I will light the candles together with my daughter. I never realized the "Sharon, how would you like to light a Shabbat candle?" I full potential and uniqueness of the modern Jewish woman." I thought she would be more than pleased as she knew all about felt great relief that night and wondrously surprised. The power Shabbat and the holidays. Suddenly, I saw her go red and she of the soul can come through even in trying times. I have never exclaimed, “I no longer light the candles since my divorce. I am told Sharon that I myself was waiting for the opportunity to angry right now and I don’t feel like it." I knew she was going arise when I would be able to read the book myself. It had been through a hard time but never imagined she would be dealing sitting on my shelf for nearly five months.... with it in this way. Candles are lit for the following Jewish holidays as well: Time was running out, but I thought I would give it another go. Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Shemini "Please, Sharon, you will feel better by adding some more light Atzeret/Simchat Torah, Passover and Shavuot. Don’t to your world..." Unfortunately, none of the arguments won her forget to light candles on both nights of Shavuot, in over, and I realized I better light my own candles if I wanted to addition to the Shabbat candles every Friday. do it before the Shabbat began. The kids crowed around to take part in the beautiful ceremony and my daughter lit her candle first. I lit my candles with a heavy heart that week. It pained me that someone would refuse such a beautiful, feminine, and special deed.

I didn't feel comfortable leaving with an empty wick on a candlestick on my silver tray, but I knew I better get going. I felt heaviness in my heart knowing that a woman would be so angry as to purposely not light the candles. It did not sit well with me. I could not keep it to myself and shared the incident with my husband as we walked down the great big hill. I was saddened that I had not convinced Sharon to light the candles. After a beautiful prayer service and subsequent Shabbat dinner with

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 32 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 32 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR The WEEK IN REVIEW NASO 1. The continuation of the preceding carried the Ark of the Covenant, which parashah's narration of the census, taken on housed the Torah. The Torah is the real Torah portion for the week of May 31 June 6 the first of Iyar, 2449; means by which we "raise our heads," that is, ascend to higher levels of Divine Parashat Naso begins with the continuation 2. Returning to the narration of the events consciousness. It is for this reason that the of the narrative begun in the preceding of a month previous, the first of Nisan, clan of Kehat is counted first. parashah, Bemidbar. Parashat Bemidbar 2449; concluded with the conscription of the When our mind is elevated, our whole life Levite clan of Kehat into the Temple 3-5. Legal material, given between Sivan is elevated together with it, so, once the service, and parashat Naso begins with the 2448 and Iyar 2449; clan of Kehat have been "lifted up," we can conscription of the other two Levite clans, raise the clan of Gershon, too. In fact, the Gershon and Merari. This already seems 6-8. Returning again to the narration of the Torah's power to raise us higher than the strange: why do we break between the events of the first of Nisan, 2449. material world is manifest most fully not parashiot in the middle of the story of the when it raises our consciousness but when Levites' conscription? But this is only the Why does the parashah begin at one point in it elevates our mundane, daily lives. This is beginning. Gershon was the oldest son history — the eve of setting out into the why the parashiot of Bemidbar and Naso are ofLevi, followed by Kehat and Merari. desert — and then backtrack to the events split between the censuses of the clans of Why was the clan of Kehat plucked out of of the preceding month (interrupting Kehat and Gershon: in this way, parashat its natural place, following Gershon, and itself with legal material in the middle)? Naso begins with the census of the clan of artificially grafted on to the end of the Gershon, teaching us that we achieve the preceding parashah? Our first clue is the fact that the clan of real "lifting up the heads" when this affects Kehat, as we said, was drafted first. our mundane lives, as well. Furthermore, if we look at the outline of According to the Midrash, the Torah gives parashat Naso, it appears to be a succession precedence to the clan of Kehat because Furthermore, placing the census of the of seemingly unrelated topics: they carried the Ark of the Covenant, clan of Gershon at the beginning of which housed the tablets. Since they parashat Naso highlights the advantage of 1. The conscription of the Levite clans of carried the Torah, the means through action over study. As we have seen Gershon and Merari into the Temple which the Jew binds himself to God, they previously, Torah study and the concrete service. are described first. performance of God's commandments are superior to one another in different 2. The exclusion of defiled people from Now, the idiom used for "taking a census" ways: Torah study unites us consciously the camp. throughout these two parashiot is "lifting up with God, but only affects our intellect. In the head." As we have explained, counting contrast, performing the commandments 3. Details of the laws of theft. the people summoned forth their unites us with God only subliminally, but otherwise latent capacities necessary for this union pervades the physical body. 4. The procedure for testing a suspected conscription into God's "army" on the eve Recording the census of the clan of Kehat adulteress (sotah). of their journey into the desert. It is this first emphasizes the superiority of Torah idiom of elevation that both begins study; arranging the parashiot so the clan of 5.The laws of the Nazirite. parashat Naso and gives it its name — Naso Gershon's census introduces parashat Naso means "lift up." Since this is the name of emphasizes the superiority of performing 6. The priestly blessings. the whole parashah, the whole parashah the commandments. describes the uplift that preceded the 7. The installation offerings of the leaders journey into the wilderness. The journey into the desert actually began of the tribes. on Iyar 20, 2449, and this is recorded only But the parashah begins: "Take a census of half way through the next parashah, 8. And finally, the manner in which God the clan of Gershon, too." The fact that the Beha'alotecha. Thus, all of Bemidbar, all of spoke with Moses in the Tabernacle. clan of Gershon's tally is presented as Naso, and half of Beha'alotecha are secondary to that of the clan of Kehat, concerned with the preparations for the Furthermore, if we look at the dates of almost as an after thought, indicates that journey; everything described in these these events, the picture becomes even the real tallying, the real "raising the head," parashiot is a prerequisite that we must more confusing: is that done to the clan of Kehat. This is complete before we venture into the because, as we said, the clan of Kehat spiritual desert in order to subdue it to

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holiness. Inasmuch as the theme of one can take away from us. the entire generation perish in the desert parashat Naso is how studying the Torah and the entrance into the Promised Land elevates us (particularly when it is Afterwards, however, the Torah sums up be postponed for 38 years. This distressing consummated in the performance of the tally of all the offerings together, drama contrasts sharply with the God's commandments), it follows that indicating that they form a collective optimistic tone of the first half of the every thing recorded in this parashah whole. This teaches us that — when based parashah. illustrates a successive stage in this process on a spirit of true selflessness — the of elevation. individual discoveries we uncover while In particular, Parashat Beha'alotecha opens studying the Torah form part of the overall with the commandment of kindling the Once we have been conscripted into God's holiness of the Torah and serve to unite us, Candelabrum of the Tabernacle. Aaron is army, the next phase of preparation is self as well. told to kindle the lamps until the wicks purification. In order to emerge victorious catch flame and burn on their own, and, as from the battle against evil, we need first to The account of the installation offerings is we will see, this is an allegory for our rid ourselves, as far as possible, of any trace followed by the final element in the purpose on earth: to kindle the flame of of evil within, to rise above petty parashah, a short description of how Moses Divine consciousness until all of created mundaneness. In this vein, the laws of learned the Torah from God in the reality burns on its own with the banishing defilement from the camp, theft, Tabernacle. The juxtaposition of this enthusiasm required to fulfill its Divine the suspected adulteress, and the Nazirite description with the preceding account of purpose. In this sense, kindling the all serve to inspire us to aspire to the the installation offerings teaches us that if Candelabrum encapsulates the entire highest levels of purity and holiness. Do we approach the study of the Torah with purpose of creation—to make the world we harbor any impure motives in our selflessness and concern for the collective into God's home hearts? Have we misappropriated any of body of the Jewish people, we can indeed the means we intend to use in the fight? aspire to hear the voice of God issuing How is it that such opposing passages are Are we truly loyal to our Divine Spouse? from the sanctuary we have built out of comprised within the same parashah? The Have we renounced methodology that our individual lives. question becomes especially pertinent intoxicates us with false illusions about the when we consider the fact that the reality we are about to engage? In Finally, the fact that all this preparation — parashah's name — Beha'alotecha, taken particular, the institution of nazirite-hood this elevation through Torah study — from the commandment to kindle the teaches us that we can rise so high in occurs in the desert indicates that the Candelabrum — means "When you raise sanctity that our physical bodies become purpose and truest fulfillment of Torah up," referring to the instruction to make holy objects. study is that it transform even the barren the flame "go up" on its own. How does wasteland of the spiritual void into God's the image of raising the world's Divine The crown of success placed on our home on earth. consciousness until it is burning with it on striving toward purification is the priestly its own fit with the moral decline that blessing. By going beyond ourselves, BEHAALOS’CHA unfolds as the narrative progresses? "lifting our heads" beyond our normal way of living, we earn God's response in kind: Torah portion for week of: June 7-13 We can begin to understand this by "May God lift up His face upon you," recalling that the Divine mission to make favoring us beyond what we deserve. The first half of Parashat Beha'alotecha the world into God's home applies to all completes the first part of the Book of aspects of reality — indeed, the only way it The following section of the parashah is the Numbers, which describes the people's can be accomplished is if we transform all account of the installation offerings, in formation as an army on the eve of their aspects of life into facets and elements of which the Torah details how each prince journey through the desert. The second our relationship with God. It is not enough brought the same offering. As we shall see, half of the parashah begins the second part to feel close to God or teach others to feel the repetition of the contents of these of the Book of Numbers, in which we close to God when we or they are explicitly offerings is intended to inform us that watch the people set out on their involved in holy acts — learning the Torah although each prince offered the same momentous trek toward the Promised and fulfilling God's commandments. sacrifice, each one's intentions were Land. Divine consciousness must permeate our unique. In the overall context of the mundane pursuits as well. parashah, this indicates that although we are No sooner do they set out, however, than all equally obligated to study the Torah — we see them make a quick succession of This attitude toward life can be acquired the same Torah — each one of us has a mistakes, which continues into the through practice, by training ourselves or unique contribution to make in this study, following two parashiot. The tragic result of others to overcome the natural tendency which no one else can make for us and no this downward spiral is God's decree that of material reality to obscure God's

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presence in our lives. Divine life then was before. · the requirement to bring grain becomes second nature, ultimately as and wine offerings with animal natural as the material outlook was before. This is one of the reasons why the Torah sacrifices, mentions Aaron as the one who kindles the The more profound way of remaking Candelabrum, even though in fact anyone · the requirement to give part of ourselves or others, however, is by — even a lay person — is technically every batch of dough (challah) to revealing our innate Divinity. When we are allowed to do so. Aaron was known for his the priests, made fully aware that God's existence is unbounded love for all people, even those the only true reality, and all other reality is who had no redeeming qualities other than · the laws pertaining to offerings merely contingent on His reality, we their being God's creations: "Be of the that atone for the sin of idolatry, uncover our true nature: as part of God's disciples of Aaron, loving peace and absolute reality, our consciousness is pursuing peace, loving all creatures and · the incident of the man who Divine consciousness. We discover that the drawing them to the Torah." Aaron related gathered sticks on the Sabbath, attitude of seeing God everywhere and even to people who were far from holiness, and being aware of Him in everything we do is and lovingly raised their Divine not second nature — something that consciousness, setting their souls aflame · the commandment to affix tassels supersedes our first nature — but is in fact until they, too, were drawn to God's ways. (tzitzit) to the corners of our primary nature, our real self, that is even garments. more deeply part of us than what we When we reveal the inner, Divine essence thought was our "first" nature. of even the lowest ebbs in our Divine lives, The laws would seem to belong in the when we feel the least enthused by all Book of Leviticus, and the incident of the This is the inner meaning of "kindling a things holy, we gain the ability to "kindle stick gatherer — which took place shortly wick until it burns on its own": we must the wick" of reality "until it burns on its after the giving of the Torah — would strive to refine ourselves, others, and the own," and the lowest as well as the highest seem to belong in the Book of Exodus. world around us until everyone's and points in life become part of the same, Why are these placed here, and how are everything's intrinsic Divine nature is ongoing process of "kindling the lamps." they connected to the name of the revealed, and therefore burns with Divine parashah, Shelach, which simply means consciousness as part of its own inherent SHELACH "send"? nature. Only when we have accomplished this have we truly and fully made this world Week of: June 14-20 To understand this, let us recall once again into God's home. that the purpose of the soul's descent into Notwithstanding the two delays in the the body, the creation of the Jewish people, This means revealing the inherent Divinity previous parashah — one lasting a month the exile in Egypt and the Exodus, the within our rebellions, as well. To be sure, and the other a week — this parashah opens giving of the Torah, and the entry and mutiny (or, on a more refined level, with the people ready to enter the Land of conquest of the Land of Israel are all in thoughts of mutiny) must be quashed as Israel. As the final preparation before order to make this world into a home for quickly as possible, and if this requires that embarking on the conquest, the Israelites God, which means to disseminate Divine we "force" ourselves to acquire a second, send their most distinguished and refined consciousness to the entire world. Divine nature, so be it. But the more leaders to scout out the land. But as a result profound way of quelling rebellion is by of this mission, the people suffer their In other words, we are all — both exposing its true nature: our refusal to be third and most serious setback, causing individually and collectively — emissaries satisfied with our present understanding their whole generation to die in the desert of God to accomplish His purpose on of God and our revulsion against the and delaying entry into the Promised Land earth. It is therefore quite fitting that on the shallowness of our relationship with Him. for another 39 years. eve of the entry into the land where this Our rebellion articulates our despair: "If purpose is to be consummated, God tells this is all there is to the Divine life, I want The bulk of this parashah is devoted to the Moses to send representatives of the nothing of it!" details of this dramatic and tragic story. people on a mission. This assignment The latter part of the parashah, however, encapsulated the essence of what the entry Seen in this light, our rebellions — and the abruptly departs from the historical into the Land of Israel is all about: fulfilling rebellions of the Jewish people so soon narrative and discusses a number of laws our Divine mission as God's emissaries in after they set forth on their journeys — are and events that seemingly have no this world. a cry for sincere return to God (teshuvah), connection with each other or with the for reestablishing our relationship with events recounted in the beginning of the There are many explanations why the Him on a much deeper level than it ever parashah: scouts failed in this mission, some of

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which we will see in our exposition of the winnow, what will become of the Torah?" therefore inconceivable that He could or narrative. But the underlying thrust of Indeed, this aspiration has inspired us to would assign us a task that we cannot fulfill. their tragic mistake was they thought the yearn throughout the ages for the emissaries (i.e., the Israelites) were not messianic era, when the materiality of the By failing in their mission, the spies capable of fulfilling their mission, that the world will no longer distort our spiritual ironically succeeded in a much more Sender somehow overestimated the focus. profound way. Their failure allowed the abilities of His agents or underestimated very value they disregarded — God's the difficulties they would face. It is indeed commendable to yearn for such purpose of making the world into His a time, but this yearning must be balanced home — to be accomplished more fully The generation of the Exodus attained the with humble submission to God's plan for than their success ever could have. highest level of Divine consciousness of creation. The purpose of life is to live any generation in history. God sustained within mundane reality and reveal the The ultimate way of making the world into them with the heavenly manna, which Godliness concealed within it. The spies God's home is by revealing our own Divine taught them daily the lesson of His and their generation were not willing to natures and thereby making God's constant involvement in even the mundane carrying out the mandate given at Sinai — perspective, goals, and desires our own. facets of life. This made them the ideal to bring heaven to earth and earth to When we do this, we follow God's will not recipients for the Torah. They had heaven — because they did not recognize only because we are told to, but also witnessed God's absolute control over the the advantage of entering the material because our own minds and hearts impel "immutable" laws of nature and His ability world, where God's essence can be found us to. to suspend them for His people. And through fulfilling His commandments on finally, they had witnessed the Divine the physical plane, and because they were The problem is that remaking ourselves revelation of the Giving of the Torah at afraid of the pitfalls accompanying this over this way is a process of self- Mount Sinai. How, then, could such task. refinement, which is long, hard work. It is people, exposed daily to God's miracles, much simpler and quicker to submit carte suddenly turn into frightened skeptics? It was precisely this misconception that blanche to God's will than to gradually And how could their spiritual elite fall so had to be proven wrong once and for all refine our intellect and emotions by low as to question God's omnipotence? before the entry into the land. It is very training them constantly to see through the easy, when we consider the wide range of world's materiality. But this is exactly what The answer is that it was specifically their the Torah's demands on our life and the the spies' sin enabled us to do in a heightened spiritual orientation that led effort we have to expend to fulfill them straightforward manner. them astray. They wished to experience life properly, to fall into the trap of thinking and pursue Godliness unencumbered by that God is asking too much of us. After First of all, the spies succeeded in exciting the distractions of materiality. In the all, the Torah seeks to govern every aspect the Jewish people about entering the Land desert, they were protected by the clouds of our life, in all its myriad details. Even of Israel. Thanks to them, the people of glory, sustained by the manna and the learning the Torah per se seems heard from eyewitnesses that the land well of Miriam, and all their physical needs impossible, for "its measure is longer than flowed with milk and honey, and they did were fully attended to. All of their time was the earth, and it is wider than the sea." And not have to take God's promises on mere spent in Torah study, meditation, and on top of this, the Torah requires us to faith. Once they were shaken from their prayer. They were repulsed by the notion vanquish our inborn animal instincts and momentary doubt, they were swept up of entering the real world, where bread resist the pervasive pull of society and its with the desire to enter the land. Their must be wrested from the earth and life norms. How can the faint voice of the few children carried this knowledge of the cannot be a heavenly paradise. that are faithful to God be heard over the land's virtues when they joyously entered it din of those who ignore Him? with Joshua. The spies that Joshua sent Thus, the scouts described the land as one were only for strategic purposes, since the that "consumes its inhabitants," fearing Strong arguments, to be sure, but upon people did not need another report of the that once they entered the land they would even momentary reflection, they crumble. land's beauty and beneficial properties. fall prey to its earthliness and no longer be For even a human dispatcher, if he has any spiritual beings. Their sentiments were sense, will not give an emissary a charge too Secondly, the very fact that the spies—as echoed centuries later in the words of difficult for him to accomplish. And while Jewish leaders—walked through the land Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, who said: "If a a human dispatcher can err in the prepared it spiritually for the eventual person plows when it is time to plough, estimation of an emissary's capabilities, entrance of the people as a whole. The sows when it is time to sow, reaps when it is God knows us better than we know spies' mission thus had the immediate time to reap, threshes when it is time to ourselves: as our Creator, He is fully aware effect of beginning the conquest of the thresh, and winnows when it is time to of both our strengths and weaknesses. It is land and paving the way for the actual

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conquest. own interests allows God's perspective to spent in the Holy Temple. permeate our whole being, but doing so Thirdly, had the spies and their generation exposes us to the risk of letting our egos Korach noted God's reaction to the spies' not sinned, the people would have indeed lead us astray. desire to remain in the desert. In the desert, entered the land headed by Moses and the Jews lived a purely spiritual lifestyle, would have been led to a miraculous The goal is to remain aware of our supra- protected by the clouds of glory and victory by God's cloud of glory and pillar rational and unconditional commitment to nourished by the manna and the well. The of fire. But then, the victory and the God even while making His reality our spies did not wish to enter “a land that conquest would have been God's alone, own. When we undertake the quest to consumes its inhabitants” with its earthly rather than the people's, aided by His manifest our Divine dimension as God's distractions. Moses then made it clear that constant support. Because of the spies' sin, mandate rather than an exercise in it was God's will that the Israelites should the land now had to be won by military furthering our self-interests, our mission is enter the land and make it holy. God prowess, but the ensuing victory would be guaranteed to succeed. wanted them to enter the mundane realities the result of the people's efforts. And of a natural human existence even at the because they would fight for it, they would KORACH expense of losing the spiritual clarity and value it more than they would have had vision they enjoyed in the desert. To uplift they received it only as God's gift. Week of June 21-27 the mundane was in fact the purpose of all of creation. And finally, the spies' error taught us the This parashah is named after its central invaluable lesson that we can all indeed character, Korach, Moses' first cousin. Not If so, argued Korach — and this is where fulfill God's mission, that we should never long after the events of the previous he erred — why must the layman look up make the mistake of thinking that we do parashah, the episode of the spies and its to the priest? Why must he look upon the not measure up to His calling. aftermath, Korach led a rebellion against portion of his produce that he sets aside Moses' leadership. This parashah is devoted for the priest as the apex of his labor? Why Thus, in this light, it was crucial that the entirely to narrating this rebellion and must he look upon the few hours during spies should "sin": it was the only way the God's reaction to it. his day that he spends in priest-like objective of making the world into God's activity—study and prayer—as the home could be accomplished, the only way One of the curious aspects of this revolt is highlight of his day? Should they not be the historical process could proceed in its timing. After all, Moses led the people considered equal and separate activities, exactly the best manner possible. Their real out of Egypt over a year earlier. Certainly, neither one better or holier than the other? fault was not in what they did but in the fact if Korach and the other instigators of this If anything, the simple Jew and his that they focused on only one side of the mutiny had grievances against Moses there consecrated mundane life are holier than coin. was ample time to voice them before this. the priest and his, since it is he that fulfills F u r t h e r m o r e , G o d h a d j u s t God's purpose in creation. Perhaps they can be forgiven for this; this unquestionably endorsed Moses' was the first time a generation was called leadership by supporting him against the The different roles of priest and layman, upon to live out this paradox of yearning arguments of the spies and refusing to aid Korach insisted, are separate but equal. for heaven while toiling on earth, of any attempt at conquering the land without God desires them both, and who is to say acknowledging the importance of the self Moses' involvement. Now, of all times, that the priest's role is any holier than the while abrogating it in raw obedience — would seem the least opportune to try to layman's, that the layman needs spiritual and as our sages say, "all beginnings are foment a rebellion against Moses. nourishment from the priest? difficult." In fact, however, it was not despite the Hence, Korach, who decried Aaron's In any case, the lesson we must learn from events of the previous parashah that “raising himself ” above the congregation, the spies is the importance of both Korach chose to rebel now, but precisely wanted to become high priest himself in ardently aspiring to the spiritual life and because of them. order to set things right. He wanted to humbly submitting to God's desire to redefine the status of high priest as being make this world into His home, and In essence, Korach disagreed with Moses' only different than the rest of the people, attaining the proper balance between and Aaron's definition of the relationship not better. “All of the congregation is holy, them. Both acting as a self-interested agent between the layman and the priest, God is within them — so why do you raise and operating on blind obedience have between the mundane and the holy aspects yourselves above God's congregation?” their drawbacks: Blind obedience has its of creation. In Korach's view, the man on And fur ther more, why must the place as the bedrock of our commitment the street who spends the majority of his congregation “raise” itself and yearn to be to God, but a life based solely upon it does day in the mundane activities of life is just like you even while involved in their not involve the entire person; acting in our as holy as the priest whose entire day is mundane activities?

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To this Moses answered: “In the morning, CHUKAT them, Chukat, apply to the historical events God will make known....” True, when the that make up the bulk of this parashah? layman fulfills God's commandments in Week of June 28 - July 4 the most mundane aspects of life, he The answer to this enigma is to be found by consummates God's desire for creation, a Parashat Chukat takes its name from its examining the meaning of the term chukah desire that the lofty activities of the priest opening passage, which describes the rite and the underlying theme of the events in cannot achieve. But even though he is told of purification from the defilement of the latter part of the parashah. As we have to enter the land and work it, he is also told death, using the ashes of a red cow. This seen previously, a chukah is a legal decree, a to keep his eyes on the priest, on rite is described as a chukah — a Divine rule for which no logical reason is given. As transcendence, on the perceptibly holy legal “decree” without any rational opposed to the other two types of moments of his day, so that his life will be explanation. legislation in the Torah, “ordinances” filled with light like the “morning,” so that (mishpatim) and “testimonies” (eiduyot), in performing God's commandments he After describing the purification rite, the God does not appeal at all to our sense of enhances his awareness of God in his heart parashah begins the historical narrative of reason in asking us to observe these rules. and mind. the people's final years in the desert, To observe them, we must invoke our starting with Miriam's death and supra-rational connection to God, our So, from the spies we learn that God's goal continuing with a further argument over commitment to follow His instructions for creation can only be realized when we water, the decree that Moses and Aaron die implicitly, whether they speak to our enter the land, when Judaism is more than in the desert, the confrontation with mortal sense of logic or not. an intellectual or emotional affair and finds Edom, Aaron's death, a second expressions in action. And from Korach confrontation with Amalek, the incident This idea is allied with the more we learn that the emphasis on deed should with the snakes, the miracles at the Zered fundamental meaning of the word chukah, not translate into a dry and mechanical River, and the conquests of the territories “chiseling” or “engraving.” A letter Judaism. Physical performance of the of Sichon, Ya'zer, and Og, leading the chiseled into a block of stone is part and commandments energized by awareness people to the edge of the Promised Land. parcel of that stone—not a second entity and love of God shines with the light of grafted onto it, as is the case with a letter morning. The Torah concluded its narrative of the written in ink on parchment or paper. The first years in the desert—culminating in engraved letter cannot be erased from the After the rebellion had been quelled, God God's decree that the generation of the stone (at least not without wearing away re-endorsed the distinction of the tribe of Exodus die out in the wilderness, and its the stone itself); the connection between Levi and the priestly caste by summarizing aftermath — in the previous parashah. the letter and the stone is permanent, the priests' and Levites' responsibilities Inasmuch as there is nothing really to say immutable. As such, it is the perfect toward the laymen and the laymen's dues about the intervening years, it is quite metaphor for the level of our relationship they must give the Levites and priests. logical that the narrative continue now with God invoked by observing His Although the thematic connection with the events of the final years in the “irrational” rules: our irrevocable between this ratification and Korach's desert. But why are the laws of the connection with Him, which transcends rebellion is clear, it still seems strange that it purification rite wedged in between? These and overrides any considerations of logic. is placed in a parashah named after the laws, like most of the laws in the Torah, person who challenged the justice of this were given during Moses' first 40 days on The events described at the end of the distinction most vocally. Mount Sinai, long before the people began parashah express this same level of their trek into the desert. It would seem relationship. We have seen previously that In light of what we have said, however, the that the proper place for these laws is some God originally promised Abraham the inclusion of these marks of distinction where in the Book of Leviticus, together territories of 10 nations: seven Canaanite under the title “Korach” is in fact with the other laws of defilement and n a t i o n s w h o l ive d b e t we e n t h e appropriate. For all along, Korach yearned purification. If they belong anywhere in Mediterranean Sea and the Jordan River, to be the high priest himself, to experience the Book of Numbers, it would be and three others who lived on the other transcendence and the feeling of closeness together with the narrative of the side of the Jordan. The Israelites were to God. In this we must emulate Korach. inauguration of the Tabernacle on the first supposed to conquer the land of the seven Indeed, this is the central message of the of Nisan, 2449 — somewhere in the nations first, when they entered it, and parashah — to yearn for transcendence second half of Naso or the first half of leave the conquest of the land of the other even while immersed in the mundane. Beha'alotecha — for these rites were three nations for the messianic era. performed for the first time on the following day. Why are these laws placed But because Edom and Moab refused here, and how does the name describing them passage, the people had to enter the

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land through just these territories that God next 15 parashiot — more than a quarter of transmit these prophecies to the Jewish had promised them in the future. the Torah's 54 — take place at this, the people. On the eve of their entry into the Circumstances thus enabled them to Israelites' final stop of their trek from promised land, God evidently felt that it conquer large parts of these lands even Egypt. was necessary to inspire them with a vision before they entered the lands of the seven of their ultimate destiny, to focus them on Canaanite nations to conquer their We would expect the Torah to turn now to their true goal — beyond their immediate territories. The originally intended order subjects pertinent to the entry into the goal of conquering the land and was reversed; they began to consummate Land of Israel: its borders, laws of land performing the commandments that the future even before actualizing the inheritance, and instructions for the require them to live a settled, material life in present. And once these lands were impending conquest. And indeed it will, it. conquered, some of the people even but first it will recount how the Jewish started to settle them, aspiring to bring people are contested by their final enemy For, one might ask, once we know what God's promise into reality in its fullest before their entry into the land: the alliance God requires us to do in the here and now, sense. of Moab and Midian. This turns into a why do we need to know about our reward, drama with several acts, the details and our ultimate goal? Our job is to do what We see, therefore, that the new generation, after math of which extend over much of God wants of us; if this brings us a reward, having grown up immersed in God's the next three parashiot. so be it, but why not trust implicitly in God presence and teachings in its desert to provide the reward when the time comes academy, was fully imbued with the The first act of this drama is the curious and not be concerned about what and idealism of God's mission and had its tale of how the Moabite king Balak hires when? sights set on the ultimate goal of its Divine the gentile soothsayer Balaam to curse the destiny. This new generation had learned Jews. The answer, of course, is that having a from the mistakes of its predecessor's clear vision of what it is we are working spies and rebels, and did not subject its Why does the Torah tell us about this non- toward makes all the difference in the connection to God to the approval of Jewish pair and their thwarted attempt? quality of our work and the effort we put human intellect. Its relationship with God The Jewish people are not directly involved into it. God wants us to serve Him in an was as pure as its parents' had been when in the events at all; in fact, the sages point inspired way; He wants our vision to be His the Torah was first given and the out that the fact that the story is found in vision, our goals to be His goals. Of Tabernacle first stood, and God's mission the Torah altogether proves that the Torah course, our relationship to God must be and promise — in its fullest sense — was as was written through prophecy, for predicated on the absolute, unconditional much a part of their being as a chiseled otherwise, there is no way Moses could devotion every creature owes its Creator, letter is part of the stone in which it is have known that the whole episode even but that is only the basis, the beginning. engraved. happened! True, this chronicle does Ideally, God wants us to dream about what provide the background for its aftermath He dreams about; this is why He shares The lesson of parashat Chukat, thus, is that (which begins at the end of this parashah), with us His dream for the messianic future. if we inspire ourselves to fulfill our Divine in which the Jewish people are caught in mission unconditionally, optimistically the snare of these nations' plot to entice Still, aside from the unsettling fact that focused on our ultimate goal, God will them into sexual sin. But if this were its such a fundamental aspect of Judaism is grant us the opportunity to make our only purpose, the entire episode could brought to light via an idolatrous king's and dreams come true and lead us to the have been summarized in a few sentences an egocentric diviner's obsession to curse threshold of the Promised Land, ready for rather than been given the prominence it us, the above question still remains: the the final Redemption, when the impurity receives as a lengthy, detailed departure Torah could have recorded the messianic of death will be but a memory and God's from the Torah's main narrative. prophesies and still spared us the lengthy promise to Abraham will be fulfilled in its details of the tale of Balaam and Balak. entirety. What is particularly ironic about this whole story is that Balaam's foiled attempts at And besides, if the messianic prophesies BALAK cursing the Jews lead him to voice the most were the focus of the parashah, why should explicit of the Torah's veiled references to it be named Balak? As we have mentioned Week of June 28 - July 4 the coming of the Messiah and the final previously, the careful reader will note that Redemption. Outside of these prophecies, the Torah shuns negative words and The preceding parashah ends with the there are only vague allusions in the Five idioms whenever possible. Moreover, the arrival of the Jewish people at the Books of Moses to the messianic future. It Torah enjoins us to obliterate all traces of threshold of the promised land. The might therefore seem that the Torah details wickedness and idol worship. Why, then, remainder of the Five Books of Moses, the the story of Balak and Balaam solely to does Jewish tradition immortalize the

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 39 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 39 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR The WEEK IN REVIEW - Balak / Pinchas name of a wicked, idolatrous king, who this era issued from the mouth of the off,” our life seems like a curse. clearly wished to wipe out the Jewish idolatrous anti-Semite, Balaam. Only in people at any cost, and in fact succeeded in this way could the full force of their At such times, we must remember that bringing about the death of over a hundred transformational nature be expressed. Balak is a progenitor of the Messiah: that if thousand Jews? we renew our connection with our ultimate For the same reason, the parashah is named goal, we can transform the curse giver Furthermore, the real villain of the story after Balak, since he embodied the idea that within us into a source of blessing. We can seems to be Balaam, whose ability to curse the messianic future will be the full transform our inner enemy and propensity evidently posed a real threat to the Jews. To transformation of evil into good. Firstly, to curse our own mission into a blessing by be sure, Balak is the one who hired Balaam, he hated the Jewish people more than adopting God's dream as our own. Each of but the action focuses more on Balaam. anyone (including Balaam, who would not us possesses a messianic spark, a potential have attempted to curse the Jews had Balak role to play in redeeming the world. The answer to these questions may be not hired him to do so), yet the result of his Focusing on our inner messianic found if we recall that the parashah in which hatred was that the Jews came to be blessed imperative enables us to rise above the giving of the Torah occurs is also with the assurance of their triumph. ourselves and to realize our true, inner named after an idolater: Jethro. There, we greatness. explained that in order for the Torah to be Secondly, Balak, it turns out, is a direct given, the ground work had to be laid for it ancestor of the Messiah. King David, the The same lesson applies in our relationship to permeate all of reality, overtaking even progenitor of the Messiah, was the great with others. We may sometimes meet the elements of reality that deny God, or at grandson of Ruth, the Moabite convert, someone who appears altogether least His sole authority over creation. and Ruth was a descendant of Balak. In dissociated from spirituality and entirely Before the Torah could be given, Jethro, fact, Balak perceived that the Messiah disinterested in advancing the cause of the arch-pagan and consummate idolater, would be among his descendants, and he holiness. His mockery of sanctity might had to acknowledge God's existence and felt that if he could have the Jews cursed, make us despair of influencing him to omnipotence. this greatness would remain in his own refocus his life toward the goals of people. The transformation of evil into Judaism. But if we recall that within his Similarly, before the Jewish people could holiness was exactly what he feared. soul is a spark of Divinity that needs only enter the Promised Land and begin to to be revealed in order to transform his fulfill the Torah's mandates in the physical Because Balak personified evil's entire being into goodness and holiness, world — with the ultimate goal of consummate hatred of holiness and its we can indeed change this “cursing” ushering in the messianic future — a eventual transformation into holiness, the individual into a source of blessing. similar act of transformation had to occur. parashah is named after him and not The groundwork had to be laid for the Balaam. Balak's hatred was the catalyst that PINCHAS transformation of all reality that would be instigated the entire episode. the eventual goal and result of the Jewish Week of July 5 - 11 people living in their land. The hatred and * * * curses of the enemies of God's people had Parashat Pinchas opens with the to be transformed into blessings, and not The word Balak in Hebrew means “cut continuation of the story of Pinchas, into just any blessings, but into the off,” or “dead.” Allegorically, then,parashat which began at the end of the preceding prophesies of the ultimate victory of Balak describes a deadened spiritual state, parashah, Balak. As we pointed out God's people over the very enemies that in which one's Jewish identity is at its nadir. previously, the story of Pinchas is itself sought to curse them. In the messianic era, part of the larger story of the Jewish the non-Jewish nations will use their power Indeed, it sometimes happens that just people's encounter with the Midianite- to aid the Jewish people instead of when we are about to accomplish some Moabite alliance on the eve of their entry combating them, as it is written, “Kings great goal in our life, when we are just into the Land of Israel. After describing will be your nurturers, and their princesses about to enter our “promised land,” our Pinchas' reward for arresting both the your wet nurses.” “Foreigners will stand inspiration is preempted by a feeling of sudden moral decline of the Jewish people and tend your flocks, and the sons of the worthlessness and dejection, making us and the Divine plague that resulted from it, stranger will be your farmers and your feel unequal to the task. An honest self- the Torah proceeds to describe the census vineyard workers.” appraisal leaves us all too aware of our occasioned by the decimation wrought by shortcomings and failings. How can we the plague. This census serves as a Since the messianic Redemption will presume to answer the call to greatness prologue to the subsequent discussion of herald the consummate annihilation and when we are so thoroughly corrupt and issues pertinent to the conquest of the transformation of evil, it is now self- acutely lacking the qualities necessary to Promised Land, for the land is to be evident why the prophecies concerning see the challenge through? We feel “cut divided up according to the results of the

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census. After the census, the Torah limited by the Torah. In other words, the Torah speaks to our discusses: intellect, but at the same time, it opens When Pinchas slew Zimri and Cozbi, he windows to the supra-intellectual · the laws of inheritance, consulted first with Moses. Moses told him dimension of our relationship with God. · the passage of leadership from that while the Torah allows someone Its demands on us are outwardly rational Moses to Joshua, and overcome by zealousness to slay someone but subliminally supra-rational. · the daily offerings and additional in the act of relations with a non-Jewish festive offerings offered in the woman, this is “a law that is not taught,” Ostensibly, the Torah demands that we Temple. i.e., no one can be instructed to do this. In sacrifice our lives only in certain cases. If fact, the sages disapprove of such an act. someone threatens to kill us unless we Now, we know that a parashah's name Furthermore, the offender is allowed to kill commit adultery, idolatry, or murder, we applies to its entire content, not just its the zealot in self-defense. In other words, are required to give up our lives rather than opening. The question, then, is: what do by slaying Zimri, Pinchas was doing transgress these sins. In addition, if the the census, the laws of inheritance, the something not required of him by the ruling regime has declared an all-out war passage of leadership, and the daily and Torah, disapproved of by the sages — and on the Torah and has forbidden its festive offerings have to do with Pinchas? was also risking his own life. practices, we are required to risk our lives for any aspect of its observance. In all Furthermore, why is the story of Pinchas Yet, by acting out of zeal and ignoring the other cases, however, we are not required split between the end of the preceding voice of caution, Pinchas put an end to the to sacrifice our lives, and must in fact parashah and the beginning of this one? It sinful behavior of the Jewish people, transgress the Torah's laws in order to stay would seemingly have been more logical to stayed the plague that was decimating alive. When the Torah demands that we finish off the story (which only takes a few them, and earned the priesthood for sacrifice our lives, is because in these cases verses, after all) at the end of parashat Balak himself and his progeny. Clearly, he was it makes sense: self-sacrifice is, in these and begin the next parashah with the vindicated. cases, rational. census. True, the census was necessitated by the events of the Pinchas story, but it To fully understand the implications of Therefore, as long as the Jew is functioning looks forward toward the eventual this, we need to take a closer look at the on a rational level, he will sacrifice his life conquest of the Holy Land and thus goes three-way relationship between, God, the only in these circumstances. In all other together with the subsequent subject Torah, and the Jewish people. cases, he knows the Torah prefers that he matter. transgress its laws rather than lay down his The Torah, we know, is God's instruction life, and therefore, this is what he will do. To understand this, let us recall that in the book for the world at large and the Jewish preceding parashah, the Torah describes the people in particular. It teaches us how to When, however, a Jew feels so strongly story of Balak in detail because there are relate to the world and accomplish our connected to God that reason and lessons in it that are essential for the Jews purpose here. rationales no longer impress him, when his to learn before they enter the Land of consciousness has been overtaken by his Israel. (Specifically, these were the The Torah conveys these lessons to us via essential, intrinsic, supra-rational messianic prophecies and the idea that the our intellect. We read the Torah, identification with God, he will not care messianic imperative must be applied to understand what it says, and follow it. If we whether the Torah requires him to sacrifice even the lowest aspects of reality.) do not understand parts of it, we continue his life in any particular instance. His only Similarly, the Torah describes the second to study and seek instruction from its concern will be for God: he functions act of the drama of Moab-Midian, the teachers until we do understand it. Yet solely on the adrenaline of his passion for story of Pinchas, to convey a lesson that is there is certainly more to our relationship God's causes; even his own life is of no essential for the Jews to learn before they with God than what we can filter through consequence. If, in such a situation, the enter the Land of Israel—and for us to our intellect. As we have noted previously, individual feels that God's agenda in the learn in order to enter our personal, small- there is a spiritual dimension to the world is somehow threatened, there is no scale “promised lands,” as well as to hasten relationship between God and Israel, as question as to what he will do. This the final entry into the Promised Land with transmitted through the Torah, that intensity of God-consciousness puts a the advent of the Messiah. transcends, bypasses, and is altogether person into constant readiness for self- beyond the realm of intellect. The inner sacrifice. What is this lesson? core of the Jew is bound supra-rationally to God, and if the implications of this The goal of life is to make this world (and Ironically, and perhaps disturbingly at first, bond do not always seem rational, this ourselves) into a home for God, with it is that our devotion to God must not be need not surprise or faze us. God's reality suffusing every corner of

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consciousness. Thus, this readiness for Balak and parashat Pinchas, leaving his self- When a person is swept up in the Divine self-sacrifice foreshadows the intensity of sacrifice in the previous parashah and transcendence of chochmah, he does not Divine consciousness that will characterize focusing now on its reward: to teach us that need to worry about self-restraint. As long the messianic future. More than that: self- self-sacrifice succeeds and will carry us as the self-effacement of this experience sacrifice is what will bring about the through to the ultimate Redemption. lingers, his ego will not seek to derail him messianic future, for in order to achieve the into self-indulgence. Once he gets heightened Divine consciousness that is INNER DIMENSIONS involved — as he must — in the process of the goal of creation, we must break out of binah, analyzing and evaluating the new restrictive rationality and open ourselves In Kabbalistic terminology, self-sacrifice insight in terms of his established mental up to the world of Divine union that exists expresses the yechidah (“single one”), the perspective on life, he must invoke the beyond the realm of reason. highest of the five levels of the soul. protective power of abstinence; he must be Yechidah is the interface between the soul war y of his eg o's propensity to This, then, is why the lesson of Pinchas and God, in which the individual is aware overemphasize his self-interests. was so crucial to the Jewish people as they of himself only as a “part of God” — were about to enter the Land of Israel. paradoxically both conscious of himself It is imperative that a person descend out This is the first time that the Torah has (as a part of God) and not (i.e., totally of his transcendent state of inspiration, in indicated that it is necessary to go beyond dissolved in God's reality). The four lower order to integrate his new vision into his its dictates. Having heard about the levels of the soul — nefesh, ruach, neshamah, life. Otherwise, his insight will escape him messianic prophecies of Balaam and set and chayah — express themselves through and disappear. Thus, the process of binah is their sights on the true purpose of their the soul's “powers” or faculties: action, necessary for growth and development. imminent conquest, the Jewish people emotion, intellect, and will, respectively. Nonetheless, in order to keep the must now realize that this goal can be Yechidah, in contrast, is too sublime to be development of the idea true to the initial attained only if they unsheathe their true, expressed in any one soul-power, but insight that spawned it, the individual must inner identification with God and His instead encompasses them all. Generally, periodically relive something of the objectives and not limit themselves to the we are not conscious of this aspect of the experience of chochmah. If he can do this, letter of the law. soul, but in the future this level will become his binah will not lead him astray. The way in the dominant aspect of our consciousness. which reliving the insight of chochmah The same applies to each of us in our own This phenomenon will reflect the overall protects the development of binah is akin personal lives. Whenever we are about to change in creation that will occur then: the to the way in which a qualified person reach a goal we have been striving for, we Divine “light” that is now too intense to be annuls the vows of someone who must first silence the inner voices of revealed within creation will become otherwise requires them, raising him to the negativism and opposition. But in revealed within created reality. Just as the level where they are no longer necessary. addition, we must be aware that now is not four levels of the soul will be infused with the time for setting limits to our dedication. the consciousness of yechidah, the four The test of our devotion to our ideals is spiritual worlds of Atzilut, Beriah, Yetzirah, our willingness to give our all for what we and Asiyah will be infused with the believe in. transcendent Divine “light.”

Again, the same applies to us all nowadays, On a deeper level, the dynamic between as we stand on the threshold of the final abstinence and permissiveness is relevant Redemption and entry into the Land of to the mental states a person travels Israel. What is required of us now is through in his creative life. The force of readiness to put everything else aside and the initial experience of creative insight, marshal the best and greatest of what we chochmah, puts him into a state of self- have in order to see history through to its transcendence, in which his ego is messianic destiny. temporarily suspended (bitul). In the subsequent stage of creative development, And just as with Pinchas, God will assist binah, the new insight is evaluated in terms those who exhibit self-sacrifice in the face of and integrated into the existing mental of adversity; He will bless their efforts with structure. This is an opposite experience, success. History has shown that those who in which the individual is quite aware of do not bow to the threats of Judaism's himself and is seeking to understand the enemies ultimately prevail. This is why the new insight in light of what he already story of Pinchas is split between parashat knows.

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Across 1. Poet, _ Lazarus 5. Be'er ___ 10. Made an exodus 14. Breaks the ninth 15. Well of Gideon's test 16. Borne 17. Man Ray art style 18. Former Minister of Defense 19. First Swedish Jew 20. "Friend" to Montand 21. Stone or Lawrence 22. Amalek or Balak 23. "The Jazz Singer", star 25. Esperantist initials 26. Jewish Mark Twain 29. Male swan 32. Spielberg specialty Answers on Page: 35. Viacom chairman 37. Minor Prophet Down 31. King and queen 38. Rina _, Israeli beauty queen 1. Wise elder 32. Financier Salomon 39. Listen 2. Where Bubbe went? 33. Grain measure 40. Academies 3. Medes 34. Hall of Fame Boxer 43. David's weapons 4. __Yoelson 36. Yours biblically 45. Title for Golda 5. Star Trek star 38. Damage 46. Co-star in "Mrs. Maisel" 6. Ultra Orthodox 41. Shofar source? 48. Boxer, __ Tendler 7. Night before (Heb) 42. Words under a chupah 49. Bridge to Jordan 8. Roasted Seder item 43. "Pink Panther", star 53. Randall role 9. Classifieds 44. Nickname for Lux 56. Jonah's lair 10. Writer, __ Kafka 47. Like Goliath 58. Shikker's choice? 11. Agadah 48. Not mixed with wool 12. Isaac's firstborn 50. Seventh minor prophet 59. Shushan country 13. Revisionist action 51. Samson's sufferings 60. Matzoball server 21. Part for Bubbles 52. Streisand film 61. Tefillin letter 22. Tu B'Shevat plantings? 53. Moses' bush 62. Satirical songwriter 24. Sea of Reeds 54. Ginzburg publication 63. Starring voice of "Up" 25. Imitated Deborah 55. Chanukiah? 64. Rachel to Simeon 27. Traverse 56. Shawn Green goal 65. C. Berman's station 28. That woman 57. "Giant" author, __ Ferber 66. 50 to the Jubilee 29. "True Grit" filmmaker 60. Secular 67. 2,550 30. "__ Shabbat" 61. Gompers or Davis

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If you are a Jewish male (born from a Jewish mother) or know of a Jewish friend or family member, child or adult, who did not receive a circumcision, we can help. Brit Yosef Yitzchak will arrange a totally FREE Brit Mila (circumcision) for military personnel and their families anywhere in the world. They have the highest hygienic standards and work with expert and experienced surgeons( Mohel's).

For more information, please contact us at: Phone: 305-992-7701 - email: [email protected]

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 49 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 49 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR Correspondence Courses leph currently offers several GPS for the Soul My Prayer correspondence courses. Not Aonly will you find these courses GPS for the Soul the classic book Tanya, Prayer allows humans to connect with to be intellectually stimulating, but you written by Rabbi Shneur Zalman of the infinitely powerful creator of the will learn things about Jewish customs Liadi, the founder of Chabad Chassidut. universe. This class teaches the basics of and your heritage that will inspire and It offers comprehensive information on Jewish prayer and explains its meanings even surprise you! Please review the the purpose of creation and serving G- by following the text in the Siddur courses offered and send in the d in a complete manner. Its timeless (prayer book). For both the experienced application below. message reveals how every individual is and those who are just learning, this an intrinsic, precious part of the class helps broaden the understanding NEW! Essence of Chassidus Course complete fabric of the universe. If you of a person’s connection to G-d. ever find yourself wondering about the Additionally, this course strengthens the In this landmark Chasidic discourse, the deeper meaning of life, then this course student’s gratitude for the multitude of Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem is for you. kindnesses that G-d does for all of His M. Schneerson, explores the creations. contribution of Chasidus to Torah Ethics of the Fathers study as a far deeper and expanded The Bible for the Clueless but Curious understanding of Torah; one that adds "Ethics of the Fathers" is a compilation richness to every level of study. The of teachings from the Rabbis Designed to teach and entertain both Rebbe analyzes the relationship responsible for drafting the Mishna, the the beginning bible student as well as the Chasidus has with Kabbalah, explores first written rendition of the Oral advanced one, this class explains the the various dimensions of the soul, Torah. It is unique in that it is the only Torah’s stories and lessons in a new, easy plumbs the concept of Moshiach and tractate of the Mishnah dealing solely to read, and exciting approach. This discusses various Divine attributes, with ethical and moral principles and class chronicles the events in all 5 books unraveling a brilliant tapestry of Torah their applications in every day life. It is of the Torah, while also explaining their study in a methodical, scintillating rich in wise aphorisms, insights, and relevance to today’s day and age. manner. stories that ring true to this day. Learning Ethics of our Fathers enables Hebrew Reading & Writing: NOTE: This course is NOT for beginners. us to enrich our interpersonal “Aleph Champ” Please do not request this course if you have not relationships and lead the best lives we read “GPS for the Soul” FIRST. possibly can by implementing the words Learn how to read and write Hebrew! of timeless wisdom from our very own You'll receive a Reader as well as a Code of Jewish Law Course sages. Workbook. Program is divided into 8 levels. “The Abbreviated Code of Jewish Law” Kosher for the Clueless is the classic guide to everyday but Curious Bible: observance of Jewish law. It was written "Chumash Bereishis: by Rabbi Shlomo Ganzfried in 1864 as Incorporating a lifestyle change such as A Chassidic Perspective on the Book an abridged, yet comprehensive version keeping kosher can be daunting at first of Genesis” of the original “Code of Jewish Law”. It glance. Never fear! This course teaches begins by guiding a person from the the aspiring student about Kashrut moment he awakes, and continues from the ground up. This is a perfect Study the first book of the Five Books throughout the day. This practical book choice for the student who wants to of Moses on a whole new level. This directs the reader on how to best go know more about what it means to keep course is sure to give you a whole new about his day in a manner that Kosher and why it is important. outlook into the lives of our encourages he reach his potential Additionally, this course strives to help Forefathers. Who were they? How do I physically, spiritually, mentally, and students of all levels and backgrounds understand some of these puzzling morally. Having the opportunity to learn find comfortable levels of observance stories? Why were certain details it is a gift to be cherished. for their situation. recounted at great length, while others skimmed? Learn the answers to these questions and more in this fascinating study.

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 50 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 50 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR Correspondence Courses (Cont)

productive and fulfilling. Sign up today have found safe haven elsewhere. for a remarkable experience. Whether Israel makes us feel pride or “Rambam: disappointment, hope or concern, we The 13 Principles of Faith” You Be the Judge II care about its fate and its future. Whatever our political or religious bent, Do you enjoy puzzles and problem- we know that Israel matters. If you have The 13 Principles of Faith, as established ever wondered about Israel and its place by Maimonides, have helped guide the solving? Do you love the give-and-take of thoughtful discussion? Can you use in the world - and in your heart - then this Jewish People for hundreds of years. course is for you. This course will focus on the 8th logic and creativity to work your way out of challenging situations? Then this Principle - the Divinity of the Torah. The Kabbalah of Time Learn the validity of the Torah, a most course is for you. The Rohr Jewish foundational belief in Judaism. Learning Institute's groundbreaking course, “You Be The Judge”, presents Examine time and the Jewish calendar Happiness: "The Ladder Up" real cases brought before the Beit Din, through the mystical lens of Kabbalah. the Rabbinic court system. We provided Time is a profound, organizing element the primary texts from the Talmud and of our existence, and the cycle of the How can I be happy? How do I cope ask our students to grapple with the facts Jewish calendar provides a powerful with the challenges and tribulations that in order to arrive at satisfying solutions. template for personal growth. Discover consume my life? This course will give You need no prior knowledge of the both a practical understanding of the you the tools and method how to achieve Talmud and no formal legal training. structure of the Jewish calendar as well ultimate happiness, despite - or perhaps, There are no prerequisites other than an as mystical insights into recurrent because of - any and all challenges we open mind. If you missed You Be The patterns of time. face. Judge I, we invite you to experience for yourself the exhilarating mental “The Festival Series” exploration that characterizes traditional Talmud study. And if you took our Explore the stories and details behind all previous course, be sure not to miss this These courses are designed to help you the major Jewish holidays - The High exciting sequel! learn more about your Jewish identity. Holidays, Sukkot, Simchat Torah, Chanukah, Purim, Passover and The Land and the Spirit If you are unable to pay for the postage Shavuot. Enjoy fascinating facts and to mail in your question sheets, please let insights that will elevate your holiday You've explored its language, history, us know and we will do our best to help experience to whole new level! politics, and geography... Now explore you (envelopes are provided). The its soul! Many people love their homes courses are free. You may enroll in one Oasis in Time: and their countries, but once they course at one time. The Gift of Shabbat relocate, they form new allegiances. They cannot trace the ancestral homeland that To receive any of these courses, email In a 24/7 world, why do we tend to focus their families claimed two millennia ago, [email protected]. on what's urgent instead of what's truly nor do they continue to long for those important? Imagine: 24 hours of digital places. Yet no matter where they have silence. No phones. No computers. No lived, Jews have continued to dream Thank you for your participation, TV. Just valuable time with the people about the land of Israel. Because Israel is and enjoy your studies! you love, to do all the things you've different. It is a land that has pulsed with needed to do but never quite found the energy and mystery since the dawn of time for. We invite you to explore the time, a land that has captured the mystical, psychological, social, and imagination throughout history, a land cultural dimensions of Shabbat as we that breathes with the glory of our past unlock a model for achieving balance and the dreams of our future. And so and serenity in the modern age. Over six Israel retains its hold upon our spirit. weeks, we'll uncover timeless principles There is a deep connection that for how to achieve a life of inner peace continues to tug at us, a magnetic pull while making each workday more that has not waned even though many

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 51 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 51 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR Get Your FREE Pair of Tzitzit!

What are “Tzitzit”? The numerical values of the five [the tzitzit] and you will remember letters that comprise the Hebrew all the commandments of G-d." “Speak to the children of Israel and say word tzitzit add up to 600. Add the From this verse it was deduced that to them: They shall make for themselves eight strings and five knots of each this mitzvah is relegated to the fringes on the corners of their garments… tassel, and the total is 613. daytime--the natural time for And this shall be tzitzit for you, and seeing. Nighttime clothing is when you see it, you will remember all the therefor exempt from tzitzit. commandments of G-d, and perform them" (Numbers 15:38-39). One is not precluded from attaching tzitzit to a night garment, Most people don't think of but the mitzvah of tzitzit can be Judaism as a fringe religion. Yet performed only with daytime garb, that's our uniform and badge of and the blessing for tzitzit may only honor, our everyday reminder of be recited during daylight hours. who we are and what we're here for—four tassels hanging from the Nevertheless, based on the fringes of our clothes. mystical teachings, many are careful to wear tzitzit even during In ancient times, we would hang the night, and even while sleeping. the tassels from the fringes of the Wearing tzitzit is a sign of Jewish four-cornered cloaks that were The mitzvah of tzitzit requires pride. Jews have always had a way par t of people's ever yday fringes to be tied to the corners of of dress to distinguish them from wardrobe. Today, Jewish men and any four-cornered garment worn the people of the lands in which boys do this mitzvah every day by by men and boys. Women are they lived—even when that meant wearing a little poncho called a tallit exempt from this mitzvah and are exposing themselves to danger and katan (literally: small cloak). For discouraged from wearing tzitzit or bigotry. By the grace of G-d, today most of us, it fits neatly under the a tallit, as women are exempt from most of us live in lands where we shirt. all time-bound mitzvot. are free to practice our religion without such fears. Today we wear The fringe tassels themselves are Jewish service members willing to our Jewish uniform with pride and called tzitzit. Their strings and undertake this special daily with our heads held high. knots are a physical representation mitzvah can order a free pair of of the Torah's 613 do's and don'ts. Tzitzit by sending an email to The Proper Time for Wearing It works like this: Each letter in the [email protected]. Tallit and Tzitzit H e b r e w a l p h a b e t h a s a

corresponding numerical value. The Torah says, "And you will see

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 52 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 52 THE JEWISH AMERICAN ARRIOR

FREE* Tefillin for Military Personnel The Significance of Tefillin

efillin is one of the most important Mitzvot (precepts) of the Torah. It has been observed and treasured for thousands of years, right down to the present day. The Torah commands every Jewish male to: T"Bind them as a sign upon your hand, and they should be for a reminder between your eyes.” (Deut. 6:8 )

Tefillin consists of two small leather boxes attached to leather straps. The two boxes each contain four sections of the Torah inscribed on parchment.

One of the boxes (the "hand Tefillin") is placed upon the left arm so as to rest against the heart - the seat of the emotions, and the suspended leather strap is wound around the left hand, and around the middle finger of that hand. The other box (the "Head Tefillin") is placed upon the head, above the forehead, so as to rest upon the cerebrum. In this manner our attention is directed to the head, heart and hand. It teaches us to dedicate ourselves to the service of G-d in all that we think, feel and do. It is also to teach us not to be governed solely by the impulse of the heart, lest that lead us into error and transgression. Nor are we to be governed by reason alone, for that may lead to harsh materialism.

Placed on the arm opposite the heart, and on the head, the Tefillin signify the submission of one's mind, heart and actions to the Almighty, as well as the rule of intellect over emotion. Do You Need Tefillin? WE CAN HELP OUT!

Tefillin has been denoted by Sages of the Talmud as one of the most important commandments in the Torah. At first glance, it seems like such a simple act: just wrapping leather straps and boxes around one’s head and arm. But in fact, this belies what is so beautiful and unique about Tefillin: The fact that one can connect with G-d in a very physical way, every day. As human beings, we have limited intellectual and emotional capacities; yet, our physical action is not diminished by the limits of our cognitive and emotional abilities. Tefillin represents transcendence beyond our meager selves, toward the Divine.

The Aleph Institute would like to urge every Jewish male reading this to make the commitment to start putting Tefillin on daily, or at least weekly. We would be happy to assist you to acquire your very own pair of Tefillin. Our Sages tell us that donning Tefillin brings special blessings of safety and protection. The Lubavitcher Rebbe encouraged every Jewish member of the Armed Forces to wear Tefillin daily in every circumstance, and thereby merit to come home safely.

*This offer for free Tefillin is only available for Jewish Service Members who cannot afford to pay on their own or through family members. Fulfillment of this offer is exclusively at Aleph’s discretion.

Jewish Military Personnel interested in obtaining a pair Tefillin should e-mail Rabbi Katz at [email protected]

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 53 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 53 THE JEWISH AMERICAN Aleph Wishes You a Very Happy Shavuot! ARRIOR

THE ALEPH INSTITUTE 9540 Collins Avenue Surfside, FL 33154 CALL FOR STORIES!

My name is Victor Stiebel, USN, retired with 37 years of combined service. During my various tours and assignments I had many fascinating experiences as a Jewish sailor and marine. I would return home and share these with family and friends, and was always told to write them down. I never got around to it.

Since my retirement I have reached out to others and realized that there are even more stories out there waiting to be told. I also kept hearing that these tales should be written down. It’s time to get around to it!

With the help of Aleph and my fellow service members, I am collecting memories about our amazing adventures being Jewish in the military. If there are enough responses, I will try to edit these stories into a book. Hopefully, this can also benefit the people at Aleph who have helped so many of us in so many ways, for so many years. Please send the good, the bad, and yes, even the ugly. Together, they will tell a story unlike any other.

Please respond to me directly. If you are comfortable, include your name, branch, and where you served. Most definitely pass this on to other Jewish Veterans and active service-members. Remember that many of our WWII and Korean colleagues may not have email access!

CAPT Victor Stiebel, MC, USN(ret), [email protected]

Free Shavuot Cheese Snacks! (See Page 25)

TORAH VIDEO RESOURCES ONLINE!

Please visit the following websites to learn more about your Jewish heritage: www.chabad.org, www.jewish.tv www.torahcafe.com and www.theyeshiva.net

You can also watch weekly Living Torah videos free online at www.livingtorah.org

VOL. XXIV NO. 5 54 SIVAN-TAMMUZ 5780 / MAY-JUNE 2020 54