B”H

THEWEEKLY MAGAZINE SHUL

SPONSORED BY MR. & MRS. MARTIN (OBM) AND ETHEL SIROTKIN & DR. & MRS. SHMUEL AND EVELYN KATZ SHABBOS PARSHAS PINCHAS SHABBOS MEVARCHIM TAMMUZ 22 - 23 JULY 2 - 3

CANDLE LIGHTING: 7:58 PM SHABBOS ENDS: 8:55 PM

ROSH CHODESH MENACHEM AV SHABBOS, JULY 10

MOLAD - NEW MOON FRIDAY, JULY 9 9:59 (9 chalakim) PM

The Shul - Chabad Lubavitch - An institution of The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Menachem M. Schneerson (May his merit shield us) Over Thirty five Years of Serving the Communities of Bal Harbour, Bay Harbor Islands, Indian Creek and Surfside 9540 Collins Avenue, Surfside, Fl 33154 Tel: 305.868.1411 Fax: 305.861.2426 www.TheShul.org Email: [email protected] www.theshulpreschool.org www.cyscollege.org THE SHUL WEEKLY MAGAZINE EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK NACHAS AT A GLANCE CONTENTS A WEEK OF KINDNESS, DAVENING, AHAVAS YISRAEL Weekly Message: 3 Thoughts on the Parsha - Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar AND HOPE IN 33154 AND OF COURSE PRESIDENT BIDEN’S VISIT TO THE FAMILIES. Celebrating Shabbos 4 - 5 Schedules, classes, articles & more... Everything you need for an “Over the Top” Shabbos experience

Daily Study: 6 - 7 A complete guide to all classes and courses offered at The Shul

Community Happenings: 8 -9 Sharing with your Shul Family

All Things Sephardic: 10 - 11 Schedules, classes, articles & more

Inspiration, Insights & Ideas: 12 - 24 Bringing lessons to LIFE

Get The Picture: 25 - 29 The full scoop on all the great events around town

French Connection: 30 Reflexions sur la Paracha

Latin Link: 31 Reflexion Semanal

In a Woman’s World: 32 Issues of relevance to the Jewish woman

Networking: 33 Effective Advertising

Numbers To Know: 34 Contacts at The Shul

Get The Picture: 35 - 36 The full scoop on all the great events around town THOUGHTS ON THE PARSHA FROM RABBI SHOLOM LIPSKAR SHABBOS PARSHAS PINCHAS ashem says to Moshe life and experiences, who is the centerpoint of a radius of so that he will not be many who are chapters and pages in that book. allowed entry to the H So what now? Holy Land, notwithstanding Moshe’s heartfelt petitions. In As long as there is someone who is part of that individual’s that case, Moshe responds radius, the book continues. that “Hashem who knows the individual uniqueness of every An excruciating tragedy of such magnitude cannot be concluded person (as no two people are by only recovering all who are missing. There must be a critical alike) should appoint a leader self-analysis and introspection on how can I in some way that has that quality and improve myself and my world when those we loved and lost capacity.” To be a true leader, cannot. one must recognize and value We are each individuals and have our own path and journey. each person’s perspective Let us pave a journey that leads directly to Moshiach, for until and thought process. then we cannot be consoled. The Talmud explains the verse where the Jewish People are told May this Shabbos bring all of the beloved families and all of us “All that G-d asks of you is to fear Him.” Is fearing G-d such a the true rest, tranquility and redemption that we have been so simple matter, asks the Talmud and answers yes, to Moses it was impatiently waiting for. Until when???!!! a simple matter. But we are not on the level of Moses, so how does that answer satisfy the question for us regular people? The Rabbis state that Have a peaceful and blessed Shabbos. there is a spark of Moses in every one of us. Each Jew has to emulate Moses. Just as Moses valued each individual, so must we. Rabbi S. Lipskar We keep hearing about 159 people lost and buried under the shattered building that was their home. 159 people under a single mound of concrete and steel rubble. If we stop for a moment and contemplate that the formless collection of twisted steel, jagged concrete with tons of wood, stone, plaster and glass debris were just a week ago beautiful 8777 COLLINS AVENUE RELIEF FUND spaces with tables, chairs, beds, cribs, dishes, clothing and anything else that makes up a home, it is unfathomable. When IN RESPONSE TO THE TERRIBLE TRAGEDY WHICH you place a single man, woman or child in each of these homes, it STRUCK THE SURFSIDE COMMUNITY, THE SHUL turns into a diabolical nightmare. But it is not a dream, it is reality. OF BAL HARBOUR HAS CREATED A CENTRAL FUND They are not 159 people in one building that imploded. They are TO BE DISPERSED AS NEEDED DIRECTLY TO THE 159 individual worlds in fifty-five individual homes who each left VICTIMS AND FAMILIES. an empty void in the hearts and minds of so many who love and PLEASE DONATE GENEROUSLY TO THIS miss them, that cannot be replaced or filled. EMERGENCY CAMPAIGN. The thoughts, hopes, memories, regrets, yearnings and deep unmitigated pain hangs like a suffocating cloud, overshadowing HTTPS://WWW.THESHUL.ORG/8777 all else. Every single one for whom we hope and pray is a whole book of 3 CELEBRATING SHABBOS EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN “OVER THE TOP” SHABBOS EXPERIENCE KIDDUSH THIS WEEK: SHABBOS SCHEDULE Kiddush this week is available for sponsorship. Early Mincha 6:25 p.m. SHALOSH SEUDOS THIS WEEK: Shalosh Seudos this week is available for Candle lighting 7:58 p.m. sponsorship Mincha / Kabbalas Shabbos 8:00 p.m.

Shabbos Day Hashkama Minyan 7:15 a.m. The caterer for this week’s Kiddush and Shacharis (Morning Services) 8:30 a.m. Shacharis 2nd Minyan (Morning Services) 10:30 a.m. Shalosh Seudos is Food Art Children’s Programs 11:00 a.m. KIDDUSHIM AT THE SHUL Kiddush 12:00 p.m. Please help us to provide our weekly Shabbos Kiddush and Daf Yomi 7:00 p.m. Shalosh Seudos by becoming a sponsor. Or join the Kiddush Men’s Shiur 7:15 p.m. Bank by becoming a Partner ($770 annually ) Women’s Shiur 7:15 p.m. or Patron ($360 anually) Mincha 7:45 p.m. Call Milena at (305) 868-1411 ext. 328 or email Shabbos Ends / Ma’ariv & Havdalah 8:55 p.m. [email protected] Weekly Video of The Rebbe

Next Week: Shabbos Parshas Matos - Massei Candle Lighting 7:58 p.m. Mincha 8:00 p.m. PARSHA IN PICTURES

Eruv Information We would like to emphasize that every Erev Shabbos, individuals should call the Eruv Hotline to make sure that the Eruv is operational. The number to call is 305- 866-ERUV (3788). The Eruv message is recorded approximately two hours prior to candle lighting. Surfside: The Eruv in Surfside now includes the walking paths along the beach. Pushing strollers and carrying is permitted on the paths, but not beyond the path or onto the beach. Bal Harbour: The Eruv in Bal Harbour included the inner (western) walking path only. The pier at Haulover Cut is not included. To pay your annual dues visit: www.miamibeacheruv.com 4 It is hard to believe that just last Thursday, the community of 33154 experienced a horrific tragedy at the Champlain Towers. This has been an unprecedented disaster we as a community could never have imagined or prepared for.

The tireless devotion and continuous care that Rabbi Sholom & Mrs. Chani Lipskar, Rabbi Zalman & Mrs. Chana Lipskar, ignited a wave of astonishing goodwill South Florida has never seen before and has gained deserving national attention.

The Shul would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the extraordinary support we received and continue to receive. Thank you for the selfless efforts of our Shul members, the hundreds of volunteers, The Shul staff, Security team and the residents of 33154.

We must acknowledge the generosity of our incredible local restaurants, caterers, who made sure the front-line workers, displaced families and families with missing loved ones were well fed 24 hours a day.

PLEASE CONTINUE TO DAVEN FOR THOSE MISSING FROM THE CHAMPLAIN TOWERS COLLAPSE AND THEIR FAMILIES

Chaim ben Sara Nancy bat Sofia Miriam bat Sara Malka bas Sara Rochel Franky ben Nancy Yaakov Reuvein Hacohen ben Yisroel Tzvi Yosef ben Toiba Jay ben Nancy Devorah Tzvi Doniel ben Yehudis bat Chaia Mikael ben Hans Ita bat Miriam Yehuda Arte ben Feiga Rivka Gabriela bat Sara Gary Cohen Nicole bat Andrea Linda bas Clara Moshe ben Toba Esther bat Linda Ilan ben Ronit Moshe ben shoshana Arie Lein ben Ilana Ilan Naybryf and his mother Leib ben Ita Leibl ben Feigue Rivka Karen Ilan ben Kalman Ruth bat Sarah Chaya Gila bas Yehudis Leib ben Shoshana Devorah bat Clara Lois Marcus Sarah bat Ida Myriam and Arnie Notkin

5 A TIME TO PRAY DAVENING SCHEDULES AND LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE WEEK

SHACHARIS MINYANIM (MON - FRI) SUNDAY SHACHARIS MINYANIM Main Minyan 6:45 7:30 9:00 Main Minyan 8:00 am 9:00 am Sephardic Minyan 8:00 Sephardic Minyan 8:30 am

DAILY CHUMASH & TANYA AFTER EVERY MINYAN

MINCHA / MAARIV MINYANIM SUNDAY MINCHA / (MON - THURS) MAARIV MINYANIM

Main Minyan 2:00 pm Early Mincha 8:00 pm 10:00 pm Main Minyan 7:50 pm Sephardic Minyan 8:00 pm Following Late Maariv 9:00 pm

HALACHIC TIMES BASED ON TIMES FOR JULY 7

Alot Hashachar / Dawn 5:11 am Earliest Talit & Tefillin 5:48 am Netz Hachamah / Sunrise 6:35 am (Earliest Amidah) Latest Shema 9:58 am Zman Tfillah 11:07 am Chatzot / Midday 1:25 pm Earliest Mincha 2:00 pm Plag HaMincha 6:54 pm Shekiah / Sunset 8:16 pm (Preferable latest time for Mincha) Tzeit Hakochavim / Nightfall 8:42 pm (Earliest preferable Ma’ariv) To our beloved Soldiers in the Israeli Defense Forces, courageously protecting and defending Times taken from www.chabad.org Eretz Yisroel. We pray for you and all of Please note that during the week times may the soldiers safety and well being daily. Vary by a minute or two. Menachem Mendel ben Chaya Leah Menachem Mendel ben Aurit Eden Chana bat Karine Cecile

6 DAILY STUDY A COMPLETE GUIDE TO ALL CLASSES AND COURSES OFFERED AT THE SHUL HTTPS://ZOOM.US/ 6457054016 PASSWORD: 699576 MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 7:20 - 7:50 am 7:20 - 7:50 am 7:20 - 7:50 am 7:20 - 7:50 am 7:20 - 7:50 am CHASSIDUS CHASSIDUS CHASSIDUS CHASSIDUS CHASSIDUS Derech Mitzvoisecha Derech Mitzvoisecha Derech Mitzvoisecha Derech Mitzvoisecha Derech Mitzvoisecha Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar PHL-101 / PHL-301 / PHL-501 PHL-101 / PHL-301 / PHL-501 PHL-101 / PHL-301 / PHL-501 PHL-101 / PHL-301 / PHL-501 PHL-101 / PHL-301 / PHL-501

7:50 - 8:05 am 7:50 - 8:05 am 7:50 - 8:05 am 7:50 - 8:05 am 7:50 - 8:05 am CHITAS SYNOPSIS CHITAS SYNOPSIS CHITAS SYNOPSIS CHITAS SYNOPSIS CHITAS SYNOPSIS Chumash, Tanya, Chumash, Tanya, Chumash, Tanya, Chumash, Tanya, Chumash, Tanya, Rambam’s book Rambam’s book Rambam’s book Rambam’s book Rambam’s book of Mitzvos of Mitzvos of Mitzvos of Mitzvos of Mitzvos Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar PHL-320 PHL-320 PHL-320 PHL-320 PHL-320 8:05 - 9:05 am 8:05 - 9:05 am 8:05 - 9:05 am 8:05 - 9:05 am 8:05 - 9:05 am DAF YOMI DAF YOMI DAF YOMI DAF YOMI DAF YOMI Tractate Pesachim Tractate Pesachim Tractate Pesachim Tractate Pesachim Tractate Pesachim Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Dov Schochet (Men) (Men) (Men) (Men) (Men) TXT-220 / TXT-601 TXT-220 / TXT-601 TXT-220 / TXT-601 TXT-220 / TXT-601 TXT-220 / TXT-601 9:05 - 9:35 am 9:05 - 9:35 am 9:35 - 10:00 am 9:05 - 9:35 am 9:05 - 9:35 am RAMBAM RAMBAM MEGILLOT RAMBAM RAMBAM One chapter a day One chapter a day Mishlei - Book of Proverbs One chapter a day One chapter a day Rabbi Aryeh Schottenstein Rabbi Aryeh Schottenstein Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Aryeh Schottenstein Rabbi Aryeh Schottenstein PHL-120 / PHL-510 PHL-120 / PHL-510 (Men & Women) TXT-121 PHL-120 / PHL-510 PHL-120 / PHL-510

1:30 - 2:30 pm 9:35 - 10:05 10:00 - 11:30 am 11:15 am - 12:00 pm 10:30 - 11:00 am THE BOOK OF DANIEL PARSHA OF THE WEEK PARSHA OF THE WEEK PARSHA OF THE WEEK FOOD FOR THOUGHT Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Aryeh Schottenstein Rebbetzin Chani Lipskar Rabbi Shea Rubinstien Dobie Rubinstien (Men & Women) (Men & Women) (Women Only) (Men & Women) (Women Only) TXT-120 TXT-112 / TXT-113 / TXT-501 TXT-112 / TXT-113 / TXT-501 TXT-112 / TXT-113 / TXT-501

8:45 - 9:45 pm 11:00 am - 12:00 pm 11:30 - 12:15 pm 12:00 - 1:00 pm 5:30 - 5:45 pm PARSHA IN SPANISH SHABBOS TANYA SENIOR TORAH ACADEMY SHABBOS INSPIRATION Exploring customs w/ Rabbi Sholom Lipskar Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Shea Rubinstein chassidus and Kabbalah Rabbi Sholom Lipskar (Men & Women) Rabbi Shea Rubinstien (Men & Women) TXT-112 / TXT-113 / TXT-501 (Men & Women) PHL-320 / PHL-501 (Men & Women) TXT-201 / TXT-211 / TXT-601

12:00 - 1:00 pm 3:00 pm 2:00 pm PIRKEI AVOT TANYA IN ENGLISH PARSHA IN SPANISH Rabbi Dov Schochet Mrs. Vivian Perez Mrs. Vivian Perez (Women Only) (Men & Women) (Women Only) ETH-101 https://zoom.us/j/758161843 https://zoom.us/j/758161843 Passcode 540360 password 5899 TXT-112 / TXT-113 2:00 pm 6:50 pm PARSHA OF THE WEEK Tractate Sotah Mrs. Vivian Perez Dov Schochet (Women Only) https://zoom.us/j/758161843 Passcode 540360

8:00 pm 8:00 pm PARSHA OF THE WEEK Tanya in Portuguese Rabbi Sholom Lipskar Moshe Lerman (Men & Women) TXT-112 / TXT-113 / TXT-501 7 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS SHARING WITH YOUR SHUL FAMILY BIRTHDAYS YAHRTZEITS 23 Tammuz Mr. Abraham Alberto Benacerraf 23 Tammuz Linda Haya obm 23 Tammuz Rabbi Mendy Duchman Grandmother of Mrs. Sofi Matz 23 Tammuz Mr. Jorge Farago 24 Tammuz Chana bas Mor Tivador obm 23 Tammuz Mrs. Michla Mamane Mother of Mr. Abe Sreter 23 Tammuz Mr. Clement Salama 25 Tammuz Dovid ben Nisan obm 23 Tammuz Mr. Jaime Schapiro Father of Mrs. Alla Weingarten 24 Tammuz Mr. Shlomo Alexander 25 Tammuz Shlomo ben Zecharia obm 24 Tammuz Ms. Danielle Brenner Father of Mrs. Orly Alexander 24 Tammuz Mr. Jacobo Fux 26 Tammuz Haim ben Zecharya obm 24 Tammuz Mr. Sidney (Shaya) Gordon Brother-in-law of Mrs. Dana Werner 25 Tammuz Mr. Sean Segal 26 Tammuz Sarah bas Moshe Haim obm 25 Tammuz Mrs. Lana R. Weintraub Sister of Dr. Samuel Davit 26 Tammuz Mr. Yossi Ehrenfeld 27 Tammuz Rachel bas Yaacov obm 26 Tammuz Mrs. Shlomit Kordich Mother of Mr. Sol Zuckerman 26 Tammuz Mr. Allan Perelis 28 Tammuz Dovid ben Shajne obm 26 Tammuz Mrs. Diana Sragowicz Father of Mr. Isaac Salver 26 Tammuz Mr. Samuel Ziefer 28 Tammuz Faege bas Eliyahu obm 27 Tammuz Mr. Alan Warner Mother of Mrs. Claire Loew Hausman 27 Tammuz Mr. Leon Weinschneider 29 Tammuz Margo Azrak obm 27 Tammuz Mrs. Rachelle Btesh Wrightman Mother of Mrs. Ginette Dekelbaum-Sultan 28 Tammuz Mrs. Lilian M Gatdula 28 Tammuz Mrs. Meira Gewirtz 28 Tammuz Mr. Steven Mack ANNIVERSARIES 28 Tammuz Mr. Yaakov Pollak Mr. & Mrs. & Mrs. Seth and Perla and Perla Salver 28 Tammuz Dr. John Sragowicz Mr. & Mrs. Ari and Rivka Silberstein 28 Tammuz Mrs. Deborah Stern Mr. & Mrs. Alberto and Freda Smeke 29 Tammuz Mr. Gabriel Ammar Mr. & Mrs. Michael and Dana Werner 29 Tammuz Mr. Brecher Dr. & Mrs. Michael and Eva Salzhauer 29 Tammuz Mr. Alejandro Klimberg 29 Tammuz Mr. Fred Levine 29 Tammuz Mrs. Raizy Levitin

MEN WOMEN KID’S BIRTHDAYS Shmuel ben Rivka Sarah Libke bas Baila Mordechai ben Devorah Leah bas Alta Miriam Chaya 23 Tammuz Yona Aaron Azoulay Yehonatan HaLevi ben Malka Esther Yocheved bas Raizel 23 Tammuz Daniel Biton Eliezer ben Sarah Bracha 24 Tammuz Sonia Levy Aharon ben Beylah Shima Leah bas Gittel 25 Tammuz Yehuda Ben-zion Boymelgreen Meyer Eliezer ben Sarah Chana Bayla bas Masha 25 Tammuz Ari Halberstam Menachem Mendel ben Sara Genya Bailah bas Gietel Sura 26 Tammuz Maya Solaimanzadeh Yehoshua ben Tamara Sonia Simcha bas Sultana 28 Tammuz Talia Frida Barouk Isaac Gilbert ben Nelly Esther Tzipora Pnina bas Slava 29 Tammuz Levi Solaimanzadeh Bentzion ben Nomi Rachel Feige bas Krandel Margalite Chaya Miriam Yehudit bas Chaim Zelig ben Eidel Chava Ari ben Na’ama Clara bas Corina Tzvi Yitzchak ben Chaya Rivka bas Shoshana Chaim Tzvi Hirsch ben Guttel Miriam bas Risha Raizel

8 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS SHARING WITH YOUR SHUL FAMILY Barbara Bloch Joanne Cronin TAMMUZ LIGHT & POWER Susan Blumenfeld Cat Cropsey Renee Blumenfrucht Susan Culligan Light & Power and Wine for Kiddush & Corinne Blumenstein Jessie Cytryn Chana Blumenthal Belle Dabach Havdalah for the month of TAMMUZ Rika Bohbot Yosef Danzger Ben Bondar David Berkowitz Heather Boussi Robin Davidson Sponsored By Dahlia Boutboul Mr. & Mrs. Allen Davoudpour David Brandwein L. DeAngelis Sabrina and Ighal Goldfarb Marian Braun Deborah Wecselman Design Robin Braun Kenneth Deckler Dr. & Mrs. Stephen Brenner Sergio Robert DeLima In honor of our Mathew Brigante Amy Dembo David Brill Esther Deutsch Parents and Children Jorden Brinn Debbie Diamond Rhonda Brockman Rolando Diaz “Those who establish Synagogues for prayer and those who come there to pray, Basha Leah (Bonnie) Brodsky Leslie DiGennaro those who provide lights for illumination, wine and grape juice for kiddush Susanne Brody Steven Dixon and havdalah, food for the wayfarers and charity for the needy, and all those Lyric Brogden Susan Dobkin who occupy themselves faithfully with communal affairs - may The Holy One, CharLynn Brooks Ben Doochin blessed be He, give them their reward, remove them from all sicknesses, heal Catherine Brown Michael Douek their entire body, pardon all their sins, and send blessing and success to all Marsha Browne Shimon Druk their endeavors, together with all their brethren; and let us say Amen.” Laura Bruder Weinberg Debby Drutz April Burkholz Mr. & Mrs. Dovid Duchman David Burton Hinda Dukes Sandi Bush Alex Dunlap THANKS TO OUR DONORS Lucille Calabro Mr. & Mrs. Steven M. Dunn Emiliano Calemzuk Cynthia Duran We sincerely thank the following members and supporters of The Louise Cangelosi Mariel Dweck Shul for donations received between 6/19/21 and 06/25/21 Tessa Capeloto Nissen Eber We apologize for any errors or omissions that we may have made. Keren Carmel Hedy Eckert Barbara Carrillo Mr. & Mrs. Shimon Eckstein Miriam Abrahams Laurence Bard Melissa Chames Marc Eiseman Zalman Abramchik Rivka Baron Alan Chandler Fredric Eiss Katharina Adams Mr. & Mrs. Isaac Baroukh Elizabeth Cheek Rakel Elchadif BJ Adrezin Judith Bassaly Andrew Chernela Michel Elkis Ronen Agadi Clemente Beda Michael Chetwynd Sara Ellerton Phil Aginsky Tanja Bekhuis Maria Chicuen Paulette Ellison Mr. & Mrs. Dov Aizenman Meir Belilty Adrienne Chiet Caryn & Max Emmer Rimma Alayeva Greg Bell Al Christianson Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Englard Arielle Albergel Brian Bell Marilyn Ciccarelli Stephanie Ephron Carmen Alonso Helena Bendjouia Yaquelin Cintra Shimon Epstein Elaine Altman Robert Ben-Eliyahu Matt Clark Zachary Epstein Jayne Altman Jaymy Bengio Daysi Cobos Aimee Epstein Jordana Altman Amy Benicewicz Reut Cohen Ashley Erenfrid Lynne Amato Simon Bennaim Shoshana Cohen Yossef Ezekiel American Express David Benoliel Stanley Cohen Nehora Ezra Ran Amiel Gay Bensadon Aaron Cohen Yakov Fain Jacqueline Anderson Alegria Bensimon Anna Cohen Sergio Farache Anonymous Daniel Ben-Simon Arlene Cohen Josh Fede Anonymous Mazal Berdugo Mr. & Mrs. Barry Cohen Judith Federline Randi Applebaum Marc Berger Brett Cohen Luisa Feijoo Robert Appleson Michael Berger David Cohen Peter Feld Helene Aragan Mr. & Mrs. Evan Berger David Cohen Daniel Feldman Blanca Arce Atara Berkowitz Mr. & Mrs. Emilio Liba Cohen Catherine Feller Megan Armstrong Larry Berlack Mazal Cohen Mary Fenimore Daniel Asher Adel Berman Rabbi & Mrs. Uri Cohen Sarah Fife Mr. & Mrs. Ethan Assouline Benjamin Berookhim Terri Cohen-Lieberman Kristi Filicetti Nancy Auerbach Leon Bibas Gavriel Cohn Yanko Findzhikov Abe Azar Katie Blais Elizabeth Connell Jennifer Fine Kayla Azari Garmizo Danielle Blank Diana & Tim Connerty Jessica Fine Mr. & Mrs. Albert Azout Ellen Blatt Lawrence Copeland Scott Fisch Beth Balkany Helen Blazer Anel Costa Lauren Fischer Maria Ballacchino Ira Bleiweiss Vicki Cowart Dale Flam Jaime Bandres Bonnie Blitzstein Rachel Coxon Ruth Flamm Angela Barbarovich Alice Blizzard Sara Creeger Benjamin Fogel 9 Daniel Foley Jordan Graham Annie Karpenstein Benjamin Lipkin Evelyn Fortney Amy Grass-Gilmore Gabrielle Kassin Batsheva Lipsker Dina Franczoz Alan Grausbard Sarah Katchen Chaya Lipsker Yisroel Frankforter Michael Green Katesuda Chinmeteepitak Samara Lipsky Amy Fread Lisa Greenberg Kathryn Palm Rhonda Lipsky Debbie Freedline Leora Greenhaus Kathryn Perkins Rafael Liranzo Joseph Freedman Douglas Greenhut Dr. & Mrs. Nathan Katz Michael Listman Dr. & Mrs. Reuven Freedman Mr. & Mrs. Sam Greenwald Mary Adelyn Kauffman Jacques Lobato Saj Freiberg Raquel Grosfeld Marc Kaufman Michelle Loewenstein Sheldon L. Freilich Elise Gross Herb Kaye Connie London Michele Fried Michael Gross Justin Kelman Deborah Loricchio Miri Friedman Sandy Gross Joanna Kent Jane Losada Patricia Friedman Jonathan Grossman Yitzchak Kest Nancy Louis Avraham Friedman Paul Grossman Kestenbaum Yaeli Lowinger Benzion Friedman Lynnette Gruenhut Riva Kestenbaum Mark lowitz Chaya Friedman Michael Grunseid Alan Kestenbaum Ian Ludmir Eric Frieman Samuel Gubernick Matthew King Scott Lundell Linda Friend Henry Guindi Craig Kirsner Rebecca Luskin Rebecca Fries Lillian Guzzo Samantha Klein Donna Luxemburg Rebecca Fries Rachel Haber Stuart Klein Yessenia Maidbrey Mitchell Fruchter Amy Hakim Yitta Kleinberger Dina Maierovits Natalie Fuks Isere Halberthal Chana Knight Mark Majeski Martin Furman Jill Halpern German Kogan George Maldonado Cristina Furman Jacquline Hamburger Mitchell Kopelman Sherry Manburg Daniel Furrer Bert Hamdan Esther Kopetman Gila Mandelcorn Suri Gabbai Gary Hammel Andrea Koplowitz Kahn Susan Margolis Ethan Gaitz Ronald Hanna Sharon Koransky Jacob Margulies Stephanie Gajewski Julia Haramati Rachel Korine Robin Markarian Mary Garcez Marielle Harari Gary Korol Ilene Martinez Arturo Garcia Sarita Harari Lynne Kosnitzky David Maryles Lazara Garcia Hen Harpaz Rachel Kosofsky Carmela Mattza Leiah Garcia Amy Harrin Wayne Kotzker Mr. & Mrs. Alexander Matz Abraham Gean Beth Harris David Koyf Carolyn Mcauliffe Ellen Gelber Richied Janie Harris Carey Kozlowski Mary McCarthy Barbara Geller Joelle Harroch Abbie Kozolchyk Willis McCloud Arthur Gellman Lydia Hasson & Natalya Jeffrey Kramer Alison Meisel Esther Genuth Cohen Lynne Kransberg Yitzchok Meisels Selwyn Gerber Andrew Haykin Fay Kranz Farrell Melnick Alexandra Gersh Norman Hecht Hannah Krinsky Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Melohn Jennifer & Gabriel Sheldon Hechtman Natalie Krivoruk Fortuna Menda Gershowitz Jack Heiney Ellen Kronick Mendy Benhamou Sheelagh Gersowsky Peter Helfer Liza Krumholz Beverly Meneses Aaron Gheblikian Juli Herman Nancy Kurosky Kari Meran Deborah Gichan Arlene Hislop Ruth Ann Kurzbauer Mr. & Mrs. Andres Meta Jessica Gillen Valerie Hockenstein Jill Kurzer Abraham Mevorah Wendy Glantz Maia Hoffman Jared Kushner Ed Meyer Lee Glaser Jeff Holding Shulamis Labkowski Lazar Mikhly Maggie Glaser Karen Leah Holst Oshrat Lanczet Hayden Miller Cherie Glaser Rebecca Horn Ernest Lansford Nancy Miller Darren Glick Jason Horowitz Orit Laras Rebecca Milliner Mr. & Mrs. David Glick Matthew Hotez Abraham Lasdun April & Robert Milman Gitty Glick Wendy Hubbard Richard LeBlanc Jennifer Minnich Linda Glottmann Mandy Hurwitz Michelle Lebowits Navotni Minter Rivky Gluck Isaac Inkeles Barbara Lebowitz Ada Miranda Keren Golan Nathaniel Israilov Zhi Xia Lee Rina Mizan Cindy Gold Jeff Ivey Burton Leeds Mr. & Mrs. Yaakov Mizrachi Paula Goldberg Sam Jacob Lauren Leffell Noemi Mizrahi Cheryl Goldberg Leora Jarashow Rebecca Legg Mia Mod Rebecca Goldenberg Barbara Ann Jeffries Kristen Lepionka Chris Moein Mr. & Mrs. Dan Goldfarb Michele Kadell Raphael Lesser Randy Mogen Mr. & Mrs. Diego Goldfarb Alex Kahane Elizabeth Leuenberger Iber Moline Jordan Goldstein Adam Kahn Tamar Levene Robert Mondestin Avraham Goldstein Sarita Kainen Hadassa Levenson Neil Montovani Dana Kaye Goldstein Shneur Kalmanson Dora Levin Dana Morgen

THANKS TO OUR DONORSTO THANKS OUR DONORSTO THANKS . OUR DONORS TO THANKS . Shayna Goldstein Dov Kalton Hanina Levin Sarah G Moritz-Finkel David Goodman Aliza Kalton Mr. & Mrs. Jerrod M. Levine Mary Mosa Gootblatt Alain Kamagi Stanley Levine Glenn Moses Ruth Gopin Tova Kantrowitz Shoshana Levy Moshe Orenbuch Kim Gordon Grant Kaplan Shelly Levy Oren Moskowitz Ralph Goren Cindy Kaplan Sara Tobi Lewinger Rachel Moss David Gornish Devon Kaplan Shaun Lewis Victor Mosseri Virginia Gorrin Judith Kaplan Gabriela Liascovitz Catherine Moussazadeh Ronald Gottlieb Naftali Kaplan Miriam Libman Sherry Mullenix Leslie Gradet Zev Karasick Susan Lichtenstein Virginia Murphey 10 Lin Murphy Richard Rosenblum Ziona Siegel Ronit Tsadok Devon Murphy-Anderson Robin Rosenblum Robert Siemens Valery Tsimmerman Jacqueline Muss Faygie Rosenfeld Pamela Simmons Brianne Ugelow Sheila Myers-Danyluk Valerie Rosenfeld Stephen R. Simons Karen Unger Adi Nadav Michelle Rosinek Leo Simpser Benjamin Usha Roshelle Nagar Arlene Ross Brent Sims Stephen Vaknin Michelle Naghdi Marla Ross Robin Singer Troy Valberg Wendy Narkir Ellen Rossetti Susan Singh Apolonnia Vargas Yehuda Nathan David Roth Nicki Skordilis sara varzan Mitchell Nathanson Ruth Rothman Rachel Slelatt Tambela Vaughn Joanna Yaszmina Nedboy Cinthia Rozanski Sheila Slewett Alex Vaynrokh A. A. Neren Cathy & Rick Rubenstein Jesse Slomowitz Adriana Vega Kevin & Vivian Neumark Menachem Rubinstein Kasey Smith Janet Veta Nataly Neuwirth Janet Ruderman Sofya Smolyar Avery Vinson Aleen Newman Donnelly Dina Rudolph Denis Sollinger VIP Completions LLC Max Newman Anonymous S H Jonathan Soontupe Benjamin Shirazipour Francine Newman Berkeley Saenz Janice Spector Gayle Wagschal Robert Nooromid Naomi Saffra Arielle Speigel Jeff Wand Evelyne Novitsky Isabelle Sakhaie Marlene Spencer Alan Warner Ariel Nurieli Ruth Sakowitz Mr. & Mrs. Terence Speyer Sarah Wasniewski Amanda Nussbaum Mazal Salame Sharon & David Spiegel Mary Watson Arlene Oldstein Lois & Gene Salem Jonathan & Dodi Spielman Brian Weigandt Mordechai Olesky Seth Salinger Karla Sprague Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Mikhail Olivson Teresa Sanchez Adam Sprung Weingarten Sean & Heather Oppen Romy Saplicki Neal Sroka Sherry Weinstein Howard Oppenheimer Eliyahu Sapochkinsky Sarah Stambler Scott Weiss Jeanette Ortiz Carlos Sardi Donna Stassel Howard E Weiss Barbara Ostroff Candice Sareli Lisa Staub Sandy Weiss Erika Ostroff Sophia Sarraf Arthur Stavnitser Brandis Weissler Jacob Ouaknine Louise Saruk Amy Steiger Tory Wentland Melissa Pachon Tamara Sasson Gabriella Stein Michal Wercberger Jorge Pack Glorieliz Sastre Rhea Stein Brett Weshner Jeneane Parson Paula Satow Karen Steinberg Richard West Gina Payne Gilda Ari Steinfeld Luigia Wiesner Ayelet Paz Rick Saxe Saul Stepner Eva Wildavsky Elana Pelcovitz Danni Sayman Lauri Stern Monica Wildonger Gabriela Perez Zivi Barry Scadron Warren Stern Annette Willis Karelia Perez Mr. & Mrs. Larry Scheinfeld Nathan Stewart Leslie Windman Nora Pessar Michelle Schiffman Lowil Stoller Miriam Winer Elissa Pfeffer Keren Schiller Michael Stone Mr. & Mrs. Robert Winer Eric Pfeffer Carl Schmertz Jason Storch Ellen Winston Judith Phillips Mark Schnapp Mr. & Mrs. Matthew Stephen & Rachelle Winters Jacqueline Pinsker Rasch Julie Schneider Strassberg lorin Wolf Batsheva Pollack Blanca Schoonover Judy Strauss David Wolf David Pollock Mr. & Mrs. Robert Celia Strickler Margareta Wolf Tommi Potter Schottenstein Bracha Strimber Rachel Wolkowitz Suzanne Prather Ira & Myrna Schrager Samantha Styles Robert Yaffe Jenna Price Julie Schreiber Anna Sudakevich Mr. & Mrs. Michael Yaron Prime Group Devora Schuck Timothy Suggs Oren Yerushalmi Carrie Puller Julia Schulman Gwen Sulak Julie Yick-Koppel Risa Pulver Tzipora Schultz Samuel Sultan Roselyn Yuken Pura Casa LLC Charlene Schuster Basha Susman Goldstein Jessica Zagha J. Quintero Eli Schwartz Robert Sussman Keren Zaig Moshe Raab Henry Schwartz David Sutton Dov Zakheim Michael Raskin Susan Scott Maria Svidler Belinda Zaret Rebecca Rauch Lisa Segall Sharon Swerdlow Johana Zenou Stuart Reder Michael Segelstein Michael Szanto Raquel Zerbib Rachel & Jay Reinberg Debra M. Seifert Michelle Tallon Karen Zider Miryam Reinitz Kops Robert Selevan Alfred Talyansky & Mrs. Adam Ziefer Daniella Reiter David Selig Jonathan Taub Richard Zimmelman Eti Reitzer Rachel Selva Aarti Taubman Yael Zoken Karin Rimer Gabriel Serfaty Avi Teplitsky Andrew Zwerman Karen Ritterspach Netanel Shalem Rachel Tesler Elissa Zwiebel Silvia Rodriguez Robin Shaoul Sarah Thaler Ellen Zyroff

THANKS TO OUR DONORS . THANKS TO OUR DONORS . THANKS TO OUR DONORS TO THANKS OUR DONORS . TO THANKS OUR DONORS . TO THANKS Jerilyn Rogin Susan Shapiro Linda Then Becky Rogoff Miriam Shapiro Debra Thompson Avy Ronay Phyllis Shapiro Jennifer Tillman Leah Rose Susan Shapiro Brenda Todd Rob Rosen Gregory Sheets Gary Tolchinsky Gregg Rosen Aryeh Shender Isaac Toledano Marc Rosenbloom Susanna Shepper Ilana Tracer Steve Rosenblum Melissa Sherman Moishe Traxler Carissa Rosenblum Yitzchok Shimshoni Cheryll Trefzger Mr. & Mrs. Levi Rosenblum William Shor Tracy Tretola 11 12 13 DAILY WISDOM Inspiring insights on the Torah Shabbos, 23 Tammuz Sunday, 24 Tammuz Sacred Speech Authority [G‑d instructed Moses to tell the [G‑d instructed Moses to tell the Jewish people,] “You must offer Jewish people,] “If someone makes a up an ascent-offering [on Sukot] of 13 young bulls [on the first vow to G‑d . . . he must not violate his day] . . . ” Numbers 29:13 word.” Numbers 30:3 If we indulge the “animal” side of our personalities, always giving in to what it The word for “violate” in Hebrew (yacheil) insists are its “needs,” it will quickly learn to assert itself and make increasing comes from the word for “profane” or “unholy” demands on us. Instead, we should accustom it to make do with the minimum, (chol). The inner meaning of this verse is while we strive for greater and greater fulfillment in spiritual areas. On the other therefore that we should not make our words hand, if we try to change our animal side too abruptly, it will simply refuse to “unholy”; even our mundane conversation comply. We must accustom it gently and gradually, showing it step by step how should be imbued with holy intentions and spiritual fulfillment is even more satisfying than material satisfaction. be consistent with the greater purpose of Creation, making a home for G‑d in this world. Once our material drives have been trained in this way, we can make a quantum leap and wean them entirely of their material orientation, just like the quantum leap from the last day of Sukot to Shemini Atzeret, when the number of bulls offered up drops from seven to one.

Monday, 25 Tammuz Tuesday, 26 Tammuz Moses is not Enough Moderating Asceticism Eleazar the priest said to the soldiers returning from battle The descendants of and Gad had . . . Numbers 31:21 an abundance of livestock. Numbers 32:1 Ritual defilement is a spiritual condition that surrounds the object, while forbidden food physically penetrates into the object. Thus, a vessel that These two tribes wanted to live as shepherds has absorbed forbidden food needs to be purged of it by being immersed because this occupation is conducive to a meditative in boiling water or heated until white-hot, whereas a vessel that has been lifestyle. Moses initially opposed their proposal, ritually defiled needs only to be immersed in a ritual pool (mikveh), since he knew that until the Messianic Era, it is G‑d’s whose waters merely surround the vessel from without. intention that we confront the physical world – and even combat it when necessary – in order to refine it Moses looked at reality from the higher, Divine perspective. He felt that and elevate it. Moses only agreed after stipulating an overall change in a person’s attitude would affect all aspects of their that they first help their brethren conquer the Land life, down to the minutest details; therefore, purification from ritual of Israel. The experience of confronting the material defilement should be sufficient. Eleazar, however, inherited the outlook world would ensure that their subsequent return to of his father, Aaron. Looking at reality from the earthly perspective, he shepherding would not be an escape from reality. knew that sweeping, overall changes are not enough; we must work on the details as well. Similarly, we should not view the time we are forced to spend in the mundane world, elevating Similarly, our inner Moses might tell us that it is enough to correct the and refining it, as an annoying nuisance. Rather, past by making sweeping, general resolutions. We must therefore also we should view it firstly as our true Divine mission, make sure to listen to our inner Aaron or Eleazar in order to ensure that and secondly, as the key to ensuring that we study we take all the necessary steps to purify ourselves of crippling negativity. the Torah, pray, and perform G‑d’s commandments with pure and proper intentions.

14 Wednesday, 27 Tammuz Thursday, 28 Tammuz Life’s Journeys Seizing the Day These are the journeys. . . . Numbers 33:1 This is the land that will fall to you [by lot] as an inheritance. Numbers 34:2 The founder of Chasidism, Rabbi Yisrael Ba’al Shem Tov, taught that these 42 journeys correspond to the 42 spiritual journeys that The use of the verb “to fall” (tipol) to describe how the Land we make throughout our lives. We begin from birth, just as the of Israel becomes ours teaches us an important lesson. Exodus from Egypt is the Jewish people’s national birth. The final journey is to the spiritual Promised Land, the life that awaits us in The fact that we are obligated to perform certain the afterlife. commandments only within the alludes to the fact that we can perform G‑d’s commandments and Although some of the intervening journeys in the Jewish people’s elevate material reality only during our physical lifetime. trek through the desert were accompanied by setbacks, all the We do not have this opportunity before and after our souls stations on our spiritual journey through life are meant to be are within our bodies, even though our souls are alive holy and positive. If we choose good over evil, we will indeed live before birth and live on after death. through these phases of life in the way G‑d intends. If, like the Jewish people in the desert, we make some wrong choices, we Relative to the idyllic existence that our souls enjoy in their will experience them as temporary setbacks. Although at every heavenly abode before birth, the difficult and challenging step in the journey of life, we strive to make the right choices, we should also recognize that even setbacks can be transformed into lives we must lead in the physical world can indeed seem positive, growth experiences. to be a “fall” from a former height. But by utilizing all our powers to capitalize on the unique opportunity that is ours only in this world, we help G‑d achieve His purpose in Creation, fulfill the purpose of our existence, and also vastly enhance our ability to absorb the Divine revelations that await us in the afterlife. Friday, 29 Tammuz Ambassadors of Love [G‑d instructed Moses,] “The cities you must give the Levites must [include] the six cities of refuge.” Numbers 35:6

The reason why Levite cities served also as cities of refuge was because the Levites’ lives were the antithesis of unintentional murder. The murderer’s confinement to these cities therefore served to neutralize the effect of his crime.

Unintentional murderers were liable to the death penalty only if the murder was the result of their negligence. Negligence that can result in another person’s death is a blatant disregard for other people’s welfare. This insensitivity toward other people is diametrically opposed to the ideals of brotherhood exemplified by the Levites. The Levites’ role is to connect the Jewish people with G‑d – through the Tabernacle (and Temple) service – and to connect them with one another, by teaching them the Torah.

Similarly, all of us can learn from and emulate the Levites. We should all strive to enhance our own connection to our fellow human beings, their connection to each other, and their connection to G‑d, so that we always take care to ensure that no physical or spiritual harm come to another person.

15 PARSHAH MESSAGES TO HELL AND BACK The virtue of a guilty conscience

By Mendel Kalmenson

hree rabbis were talking about life and death when the question Tcame up: “When you’re in your casket, and friends and congregants are mourning over you, what would you like them to say?”

The first rabbi said: “I would like them to say I was a wonderful husband, a fine spiritual leader and a great family man.”

The second commented: “I would like them to say I was a wonderful teacher and servant of G‑d who made a huge difference in people’s the sons of did not die. Korach’s children in Gehinnom was lives.” temporary. They didn’t live out the The final verse is the verse in rest of their lives underground, but The third rabbi thought for a moment question, as it matter-of-factly eventually emerged to rejoin society and remarked: “I’d like them to say, contradicts a previous verse: some time after the commotion died ‘Look, he’s moving!’” “The earth opened its mouth down and their peers died off. and swallowed them and their Surviving the Odds households, and all the people who Not Fair There’s a verse in the Book of were with Korach.” While it’s nice to know that some Numbers that at first glance appears people survived the earth-shattering straightforward enough, if slightly This account states unequivocally showdown between Moses and random, but upon closer analysis that everyone in Korach’s camp Korach, we wonder why Providence proves puzzling. was swallowed alive, including chose specifically Korach’s sons to Korach’s sons. Unless there’s a outlive their fellow mutineers. The Torah is recounting the genealogy way to remain alive even after being of the tribe of Reuben and, in sucked into the earth, the Bible “The [sons of Korach] were the first passing, mentions the infamous pair presents us with two irreconcilable to get involved in the conspiracy,” of Biblical troublemakers, Dathan reports. Fortunately for us, the says the Talmud. These men, it and Abiram, great-grandchildren classic Bible commentator, Rashi, turns out, didn’t just join an existing of Reuben. Their mention sets the depicts just such a scenario: revolt against Moses; they were Torah off on a tangent: its creators. And in , the The [sons of Korach] were the first ultimate sinner is one who instigates Dathan and Abiram, the same to get involved in the conspiracy, communal sin. Dathan and Abiram who were but during the dispute they had summoned by the assembly, who thoughts of teshuvah [repentance] Indeed, according to Maimonides, contended against Moses and Aaron in their hearts. Therefore a secure this type of sinner “who causes the among the assembly of Korach and elevated area was set apart for many to sin . . . does not have a when they contended against G‑d. them in Gehinnom [purgatory], and portion in the world to come; rather, Then the earth opened its mouth and they settled there. their [souls] are cut off and they are swallowed them and Korach with judged for their great wickedness the death of the assembly, when the Nachalat Yaakov, a commentator and sins, forever . . .” fire consumed two hundred and fifty on Rashi, fills in an important men—and they became a sign. But detail, namely, that the “settling” of How does that square with the happy 16 ending to the story of Korach’s they are the only real link between the others, making only them worthy children? They not only escaped transgression and repentance. of redemption. The others had spiritual death, but they lived to tell Without them the sinner doesn’t completely identified with the revolt the tale! stand a chance of reform. In the against G‑d and Moses, in deed and words of our Sages, “Once a in heart. In fact, according to the Sages, these person becomes accustomed to a men went on to have families whose certain transgression, it becomes Korach’s sons, on the other hand, descendants boasted such spiritual permissible to him.” remained in touch, if temporarily not giants as Samuel the Prophet and in line, with right and wrong. What twenty-four watches of Levites in the Conscience is the safeguard of they lacked at crunch time was Temple. proper human behavior. courage, not conviction, which meant that at least at heart they had never And that’s not all. According to the Consider the following revealing left the bosom of righteousness. Talmud, while sitting in the “special quotes from Adolf Hitler, may his place in hell” reserved for them, name be erased, arguably the most What’s in it for me? Korach’s sons “sat and sang praises despicable human monster to have One Jewish teaching has it that “there [to G‑d],” which, astonishingly, were ever lived: is not a righteous man on earth who included and immortalized in King does what is right and never sins.” David’s Psalms.10 “Providence has ordained that I Shortcomings, then, are only human. should be the greatest liberator of How we respond to unfortunate flings Take the opening verse to Psalm 87, humanity. I am freeing man from the with sin is a different matter. for example: “Of the sons of Korach, restraints of an intelligence that has a song with musical accompaniment, taken charge, from the dirty and Even if our remorseful feelings whose foundation is in the sacred degrading self-mortification of a continuously prove incapable of mountains.” false vision called conscience and producing action, we must hold on morality, and from the demands of to those sentiments for dear life, lest What merit brought Judaism’s a freedom and independence which we become desensitized or immune arch-violators out of the depths of only very few can bear.” to wrongdoing and eventually begin Hell to grace the tops of “sacred to identify with our foolish behavior. mountains”? “The Ten Commandments have lost their validity. Conscience is a In one of his discourses, the founder Jewish Guilt Jewish invention; it is a blemish like of Chabad Chassidism, Rabbi Despite the extent of their iniquity, the circumcision.” Schneur Zalman of Liadi, paints the sons of Korach, as opposed to their tragic scene of a man whose infected co-conspirators, still managed to “They refer to me as an uneducated arm was just amputated, and who retain one virtue: “During the dispute barbarian. Yes, we are barbarians. breaks down in bitter tears. Why they had thoughts of teshuvah We want to be barbarians, it is does the man cry? Rabbi Schneur [repentance] in their hearts.” an honored title to us. We shall Zalman asks. He no longer feels his rejuvenate the world.” hurting arm! Ah, but that’s precisely There it is, their saving grace: a why he cries; because he doesn’t guilty conscience. And then there’s this stanza of a feel his hurting arm . . . song sung by the Hitler Youth: Now it’s true that Judaism in general Hurting is a sign of connectivity; has little patience for unrealized “We are the joyous Hitler Youth, letting go of the pain of disconnection, lofty thoughts and feelings, and We do not need any Christian virtue however uncomfortable it makes even less for empty feelings of Our leader is our savior our life, sadly means letting go of remorse. “Action is paramount” is a The Pope and Rabbi shall be gone connection. basic Jewish teaching. And it’s also We want to be pagans once again.” true that nothing practical came of Based on a talk given by the the regretful feelings harbored by Unfortunately, we do not have Lubavitcher Rebbe, Shabbat Parshat Korach’s sons. to look far for examples of what Pinchas 5737 (1977)19 happens to human beings devoid of But that’s precisely the lesson here: conscience . . . Do not underestimate the power of feeling contrite. Do not discount It was the functioning inner moral those sentiments, even when they compass possessed by Korach’s keep coming up short of action, for sons that distinguished them from 17 THE 3 WEEKS THE ULTIMATE DWELLING FOR G-D’S PRESENCE From the talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson

To Dwell Among Mortals after the Beis HaMikdash was develops his thought processes ith His commandment to the destroyed, the site remains the without such guidance. to erect a Sanctuary­ , G‑d resting place for G‑d’s Pres­ence. Walso gave the promise, “I will Although the second individual has dwell within.” That promise was fulfilled In Chassidic thought, this made greater use of his powers with the manifestation of G‑d’s Presence distinction is explained as follows: of achievement, the first individual in the Sanctuary — as it is written, The revelation within the Sanctuary nevertheless pos­sesses a clear “G‑d’s glory filled the Sanctuary.” The reflected the descent of‑ G d’s advantage. For the guidance of his manifestation of the Divine Presence Presence until it rested within our mentor has endowed him with greater within our material world has under­gone material world. As this revelation clarity and direction. several different phases. radiated downward, it reflected the infinite power of ‑G d’s light. It To see these principles reflected in As the Sanctuary journeyed through the did not, however, effect a lasting the analog: The First Beis HaMikdash desert, and simi­larly, afterwards, when it change within the setting of the possessed a far greater degree of was located in Eretz Yisrael, revelation. Divine revela­tion than the Second Beis HaMikdash. Thus, although More particularly, however, it is possible The construction of the Beis the First Beis HaMikdash reflected to differentiate between the manner in HaMikdash, by contrast, reflected­ a transformation of the material which the Divine Presence was manifest the transformation of a portion of aspects of the world as mentioned in the Sanctuary and its manifestation the world itself into a dwelling for above, it was also associated with in the Beis HaMikdash. Although there G‑d. Here, the emphasis was not Divine revelation, like, to refer back to is no change in G‑d Himself, there is on the revela­tion of G‑dliness the anal­ogy, a student who proceeds a differ­ence between the nature of the from above, but on how the truth independently, but who relies on the manifestation of His Presence in these of the exis­tence of every entity in guidance of his teacher. locations, the difference being the extent this world is G‑dliness. Thus the to which the physical nature of the site Beis HaMik­dash represented the The Second Beis HaMikdash was nullified, and hence, the extent to ultimate expression of our efforts lacked the aspect of revelation which it served as a medium to reveal to refine our material environment, that characterized the First Beis G‑d’s Presence. and to elevate it to a state of holi­ HaMikdash. It did, however, reflect ness. the transformation of the material The Differences Between a aspects of the world into a dwelling Temporary Dwelling and a Two Levels of Refinement for G‑d to a greater degree; to refer Permanent Home Within the latter concept itself, back to the analogy, a student who To explain: The Sanctuary served as there are two different levels, which achieves success through his own a temporary dwelling for G‑d, as it is correspond to the differences inde­pendent efforts. written: “And I [G‑d] have sojourned between the First and Second Batei in a tent and a tabernacle.” The site of HaMikdash. To explain by means This dimension is highlighted by our the Beis HaMikdash, by con­trast, is the of analogy: There are two types Sages’ interpretation of the verse: permanent dwelling place for the Divine of thinkers: one whose thinking “The glory of this later house will Presence, as it is written: “This is My processes have been developed be greater than the first house,” resting place forever.” by a teacher, and another who as referring to the Second Beis achieves success through his HaMikdash which was greater, in Among the corollaries to this concept own independent efforts. Even time and space, than the First Beis is the following: Although­ the ground in the first instance, the person is HaMikdash. For time and space became sanctified at the time when the capable of thinking creatively and are the coordinates that deter­mine Sanctuary was located in a particular under­standing concepts which the nature of existence within our place, after the Sanctuary was relocated, he has not heard explicitly from material world. no vestige of holiness remained in its his teacher. Nevertheless, his previous location. In regard to the Beis concep­tual thrust originates in This dimension is also reflected in HaMikdash, by contrast, the na­ture of the teachings of his mentor. The the fact that the con­struction of the the physical site was changed. From sec ­ond individual, by contrast, Beis HaMikdash was ordered by the time of its construction­ onward, even 18 Koresh, King of Persia, a gentile. This mitzvos were given for the sole and his inner spiritual core compels indicates that the world itself, as it exists purpose of refining the created him to develop an outward, conscious within its own framework, desired that a beings.” For our performance of connection. Teshuvah represents Sanctuary be con­structed for G‑d. mitzvos is directly involved with a reestablishment of a connection material entities and refines them to G‑d through man’s own initiative. Parallels in Our Divine Service by establishing a bond of oneness This paral­lels the manifestation of The relationship between these three between them and G‑d. G‑d’s Presence in the Second Beis phases of Divine revelation — the HaMikdash illustrated above with the Sanctuary, the First Beis HaMikdash, Although the performance of analogy of a scholar who achieves and the Second Beis HaMikdash — can mitzvos elevates the material success through his independent be compared to the relationship between substance of the world, this efforts.22 three modes of our divine service: Torah elevation comes as a result of study, the performance of mitzvos, and the influence of G‑d — He who The Ultimate Divine Dwelling turning to G‑d in teshuvah. commanded that the mitzvos be The Third Beis HaMikdash will observed. Thus, this mode of possess the advantages that were To explain: When studying the Torah, service parallels the manifestation present in both the First and the we deal with mate­rial concerns. of G‑d’s Presence in the First Second Basei HaMikdash and will Nevertheless, our involvement in these Beis HaMikdash which was illus­ fuse both these dimensio­ ns into a matters is abstract in nature; we are not trated by the analogy of a scholar single whole.23 For the Era of the directly involved with matters of the world. whose development is guided by a Redemption will be characterized by On the contrary, Torah study requires teacher. the refine­ment of the world at large; separating oneself from the issue in Mashiach “will perfect the entire world question, viewing it abstractly, and The desire to turn to G‑d in to serve G‑d as one.”24 And this will striving to discover what the Torah states teshuvah, by contrast, does not be the era of complete­ revelation; regarding the matter. This parallels the come “from above.” On the contrary, “the glory of G‑d will be revealed and revelation of G‑d’s Presence within the the classic conception of teshuvah all flesh will see.”25 Sanc ­tuary, where G‑d’s Presence was is repentance from sin, and in that revealed within our world in a manner instance, a person has separated This Beis HaMikdash will remain for that did not effect a permanent change himself from G‑dliness and does all time, an eternal testimony of G‑d’s in the world’s material nature. not feel Divine light. Why then does Presence within this world. May it be he turn to G‑d? Because that is the revealed in the immediate future. In regard to the performance of mitzvos, truth of his being. No Jew can or by contrast, our Sages state: “The will remain separate from G‑d,21

OUR MANDATE

EACH GENERATION HAS ITS ROLE IN HISTORY.

FROM ALL THE GENERATIONS BEFORE US WE INHERITED A WEALTH OF DREAMS: PHILOSOPHY, TRUTHS, WISDOM AND PURPOSE. WE ARE TINY DWARFS STANDING ON THE SHOULDERS OF THEIR IDEAS AND THEIR NOBLE DEEDS.

OUR GENERATION’S MANDATE—AND DESTINY—IS TO MAKE THE DREAM REAL.

19 MY ENCOUNTER WITH THE REBBE

THE END OF ONE CHAPTER AND THE BEGINNING OF CHAPTER 41 RABBI BEN ZION COHEN

hen I graduated high school, be a vegetarian, and not harm other business partner — Charles Roth, the members of the Jewish living beings. This was an idea who was affiliated with Chabad — to Wcommunity in Indianapolis, my that ran counter to the American speak to me. Charles convinced me hometown, offered me a free trip to Israel. capitalist ideal — which seemed that I could find the same benefits They thought that a kid like me — who selfish in comparison — that one in chasidic teachings. Chasidim received only a minimal Jewish education should make a lot of money and buy also practiced meditation and had and whose parents were minimally a lot of beautiful things. a strong connection to G-d, he said, observant — needed a boost to stay recommending that I delve into a Jewish. And it so happened that I came I began to practice yoga meditation book called Tanya, the seminal work to Israel, along with another two hundred — to think about the soul, about the of the Alter Rebbe, the founder of the kids like me, right after the end of the Six Creator, and about helping others. Chabad Movement. Day War of 1967. We spent two months After a few months, I began feeling touring, and wherever we went, we saw a new sensation, which I came to To make a long story short, this led me happy people. This made an impression identify as happiness. I was happy to the study of other Jewish texts and on me because, back home, I rarely saw because every day I was doing to visiting Kfar Chabad, the Lubavitch people who looked so happy. good things. Every day, I didn’t village in Israel. As a result of that feel the lacks and frustrations that experience, I enrolled in the yeshivah Why were these Israelis so happy? They come from craving possessions like on the premises, which welcomed told us that for six months they had lived money and fancy cars. people just like me who had little or no in fear of their Arab neighbors who loudly background in Judaism. declared that they planned to push every I also spent a lot of time wandering Jew into the sea. And then, in six short around the Judean desert near Once I started studying in this days, Israel overcame all of them and Jerusalem, where I would see the yeshivah, I noticed that some of the recaptured vast amounts of territory, all beauty of nature that G-d created. students would sit quietly for five or with minimal casualties. So my belief in G-d became very ten minutes before prayers started, strong. Crediting all this to yoga, I and I realized they were meditating. As a result of this experience, I decided considered going to India for more I approached one of them and he to remain in Israel and study at Hebrew in-depth study. confirmed this, directing me to speak University. During this time, I was also to the yeshivah’s spiritual mentor, very strongly influenced by a foray into My father became alarmed, and Rabbi Shlomo Chaim Kesselman to yoga as a religious practice. I liked the when I returned to the US for a find out more. This is how I learned idea that one should lead a simple life, short time, he arranged for his the meaning of chasidic meditation 20 and its foundation in the contemplation atomic material. If this is so in the inquired about my progress. And of Chapter 41 of the Tanya. negative and destructive aspect, when Rabbi Kesselman responded how much more is it in the good and that I was succeeding in my studies I started meditating on this chapter for constructive aspect... This is why the and meditating before prayers, the five to ten minutes every day. And very “four cubits” of Torah and mitzvot, Rebbe was very happy. He actually soon I felt myself coming close to G-d, even of one single individual, can stood up and exclaimed, “Ben Zion which is a very special, very wonderful have a tremendous effect on the contemplates Chasidus before feeling. I was also succeeding in my whole world. praying! It would be great if all of the Talmudic studies with Rabbi Shneur students did the same!” Zalman Gafni and in my chasidic studies The Rebbe went on to point out with Rabbi Hershel Hecht. that there are those who think it is Subsequently, I had the occasion to necessary to bring about change in meet with the Rebbe in person and I After a few months, it was suggested the world through violent revolutions asked him about my prayer practice. to me that I reach out to the Rebbe for and loud propaganda, but this He answered that I should continue guidance, so I wrote a letter telling the is not the way of Torah, which meditating on Chapter 41 of the Tanya, Rebbe my life story. In due course came teaches us that great things can be as well as occasionally studying the a reply — a beautiful letter — in which accomplished even by small good first chapter of the section of the Tanya the Rebbe said that he was gratified that, deeds. In this context, the Rebbe entitled “The Gate of Oneness and after my spiritual wanderings, I found the quoted Maimonides, the great Faith.” This chapter talks about how right path at last: 12th century Jewish philosopher, G-d constantly re-creates the world, who said, “A person should always and if He would not be re-creating the In as much as you are fortunate to arrive consider himself and all the world world every second, then the world at your destination, namely the Torah, equally balanced. Thus, at any time, would cease to exist. the Torah of Truth ... you will now enjoy when a person does a good deed, the relief that comes after such a journey, he tips the scale in favor of himself So now, forty-nine years later, I think and you will utilize all your capacities in as well as the whole world.” about this every day before I pray the “four cubits” of Torah and mitzvot. — that G-d gives everything in the And although the [Talmudic] expression His letter inspired me greatly. During world its existence — all the time, at speaks of “four cubits,” these are the my second year in yeshivah, my every moment. Realizing this helps “four cubits” that embrace the whole mother came to visit and gave me me live a happy life, and when tests world. some extra money. A short time later, and challenges intervene, it helps me we were escorting Rabbi Kesselman remember that G-d is everything. I have already had occasion many times to the airport for a visit to the Rebbe. to emphasize that, precisely in our day In the heat of the moment, I decided This is the message that I got from the and age, we can clearly see how a small to send the money along as a Rebbe and from chasidic teachings. quantity can produce extraordinary contribution toward the Rebbe’s And I’ve been trying my whole life results which are completely out of outreach campaigns. to give over this message to other proportion. We have seen the destructive people, wherever I go and whomever forces that can be realized from a very Rabbi Kesselman later told me that, I meet. small quantity of several pounds of when given the donation, the Rebbe

OPEN EYES

AFTER 33 CENTURIES, ALL THAT’S NEEDED HAS BEEN DONE.

THE TABLE IS SET, THE FEAST OF MOSHIACH IS BEING SERVED WITH THE ANCIENT WINE, THE LEVIATHAN AND THE WILD OX —AND WE ARE SITTING AT IT.

ALL THAT’S LEFT IS FOR US TO OPEN OUR EYES.

21 STORIES WITH SOUL Years ago, the Jewish settlement in the in his eyes. “You’re right, it’s your deceased came to accompany him Land of Israel was entirely dependent money and your decision,” he to the Heavenly Court. on the generosity of its brethren in conceded. But before he left he the Diaspora. To that end, special added under his breath, “It looks “’Did you study Torah?’ the man was emissaries would travel throughout as if you’re going to be the third.” asked. ‘No,’ was his reply, ‘I was a Europe collecting donations, visiting businessman.’ local Jews and soliciting funds. The miser closed the door with the emissary’s words echoing in his “’Then certainly you supported those One time an emissary arrived in a ears. What did he mean? A whole who did with your charity. Tell us,’ certain city and was given a warm day he couldn’t get the comment the judges urged him, ‘which good welcome. All of the townspeople came out of his head, and that night he deeds did you perform with all your to the synagogue to hear him deliver tossed and turned in bed. “It looks money?’ his appeal. At the end of the speech, as if you’re going to be the third.” a prominent member of the local The third what? He had to find out. “’Look, there’s nothing to talk about,’ community volunteered to accompany the man answered. ‘I brought all my him on his rounds from house to house. The next day the miser searched money with me. Do whatever you the city until he found the emissary want with it.’ The two men walked through the Jewish from Israel. “I must know,” he section knocking on doors and asking pleaded with him. “What did you “’You don’t understand,’ they for donations. Not one family refused mean when you said that I would explained. ‘Here money has no to contribute. The contributions varied be the third?” value. The currency is mitzvot- according to financial circumstance, commandments.’ The man’s fate but everyone was happy to give at least The emissary smiled. “Yesterday hung in the balance. something. Then the emissary noticed I honored your principle of not that they had skipped a mansion, and giving away any of your hard- “After much discussion the judges asked his companion why. “It would be earned money. So how can you realized that there was only one a waste of effort,” he was told. “The man expect me to share my wisdom precedent in history, when the who lives there is miser. He has never with you for nothing? I also worked wealthy, rebellious Korach had been given even a penny to charity.” very hard to acquire it.” swallowed up by the earth with all his riches. In the end it was decided that “But we have to try,” the emissary The miser acknowledged that he the miser, who had also been buried insisted. “Who knows? Maybe our was right, and agreed to pay for with all his money, should be sent words will penetrate his heart.” the answer. The emissary insisted to keep him company. The lonely on a sum three times what he Korach would no doubt be delighted. They knocked on the door, which usually asked of the rich, and the was opened by the wealthy miser transaction was made. “But it’s very hard to spend such a himself. “Good day!” the emissary said long time with even two people,” the cheerfully. “May we speak with you for “Now I will tell you a story,” the emissary continued. “I’m sure that a minute?” emissary began. “Many years Korach and his friend are very bored ago there lived a very wealthy by now, and would welcome a third “You may certainly speak, but if you’ve man who was as stingy as he was conversationalist into their group. come for a donation of money you’re rich. He was even miserly when it When I met you I thought to myself, wasting your time,” the miser said dryly. came to himself. He even refused ‘Who knows? Maybe their boredom to marry, lest a wife and children will soon be alleviated. But now that But the emissary would not give up. drain his finances. you’ve given me your donation, I “You’re obviously a wealthy man. Don’t think that Korach and his friend will you want to help support the poor “The man worked very hard his have to wait a while longer.” and hungry Jews of the Holy Land? whole life and eventually amassed Everyone else in town is contributing a fortune. Before he passed away, From that day on the former miser generously.” he instructed the Burial Society to was always the first to contribute to bury him with all his money. Even every charitable cause that came his “My money belongs to me,” the miser after death he refused to part from way. declared sharply. “I worked very hard his riches. for it, and saved every penny. I refuse to give the fruit of my labors to someone “His final wishes were carried out, who didn’t expend the effort.” and not one cent remained above ground. When the grave was The emissary looked at him with pity filled, the angel in charge of the 22 AS THE SURREAL TURNS NORMAL, SURFSIDE’S JEWISH COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE EXPANDS

The Shul of Bal Harbour’s relief effort in the immediate aftermath of the overwhelming effort continues tower’s early morning collapse has morphed providing comfort and aid to all into everyday life in Surfside By Dovid Margolin Much the same has taken place at The Shul of Bal Harbour, the Chabad-Lubavitch center that sits at the heart of the Jewish community stretching from Surfside through Bal Harbour, Bay Harbor and Indian Creek. If, in the first hours and days after the tragedy, the community rushed forward to fill the center’s massive, soon-to-be-completed expansion with fresh food, non-perishables, water, clothes, tablets, hygiene products, phone chargers and anything else their displaced was from the discretionary fund that Lipskar friends and neighbors and families of the purchased ten brand new pairs of tefillin, missing needed, now the Jewish community which were delivered to the center within an he feeling here can only be described aid effort has become part and parcel of The hour. Fifteen minutes later, a pair was already as eerie. A heavy police presence Shul’s regular work. None of which cancels on its way to a former resident of Champlain patrols every artery leading into the T its actual regularly-scheduled activities: Towers South. When a woman from the twin beachside towns of Surfside and Bal on Monday, 350 campers arrived at The community who lived in Champlain Towers Harbour, leaving its chic, normally bustling Shul for the first day of their Gan Israel day needed modest clothing to replace everything streets oddly empty. Nowadays, the most camp, and before then, volunteers had to she had, the fund was used to pay for a new common sights and sounds are flashing sort through all the donated items and move wardrobe at a Jewish clothing store in Miami, lights and sirens, as various local, county, them to another location. The young campers which opened specially for her late at night. state and federal vehicles rush to and include grandchildren and other relatives of from the sealed-off site where Champlain individuals who lived at Champlain Towers It is not a desk job, though. On Monday, Towers South once stood. What was South. Lipskar attended the first Jewish funeral in a week ago a 135-foot building is now Florida connected to the tragedy, an elderly compressed into 35 feet, and most refer to Directing The Shul’s community relief work couple who had been recovered from the it simply as “the pile.” are Rabbi Zalman and Chana Lipskar, son building’s wreckage. Though all federal, state and daughter-in-law of the center’s founders, and local officials have been working their The digging at what remains of the Rabbi Sholom and Chani Lipskar. For Rabbi utmost to respect Jewish law during each step building has gone on unabated for six Zalman Lipskar the day starts early. He of the difficult recovery process, complications days, with expanding resources brought in teaches a Torah class at 6:30 a.m., but by 8 is that threatened the timeliness of the funeral from throughout the state and volunteers, working in his office. One morning he begins arose, and with help from officials—including including from Israel and Mexico, joining by coordinating aid to families who have lost U.S. Sen. Rick Scott—Miami Dade Police Miami Dade frontline workers each day. everything in what remains of Champlain chaplains, working together with South At night, bright lights illuminate the site, Towers South, asking his office to start calling Florida’s Chevra Kadisha burial society, the massive cranes brought in to move a list of names to get an account of what carefully worked them out. The bodies were heavy slabs extending upwards, as if their immediate needs are. “I want someone ultimately released and the funeral was able to pointing to the sky. On the beach where to reach out to them, so they don’t have to take place on time when the cemetery agreed makeshift barriers mark the perimeter of call us,” he explains to the woman making to remain open past closing time out of respect the exclusion zone, the peaceful murmur the calls. “We don’t want them to feel like for the victims and their families. of waves lapping the shore is broken by someone is doing them a favor. We want the sharp buzz of cutting metal and the them to know they’re family.” Throughout the day, Lipskar receives a flood thud of distant hammering. of media requests from outlets big and small, In the immediate aftermath of the collapse, most of which he simply cannot take. While The work never stops, and the days are The Shul started a campaign to raise much- the area’s Jewish community’s incredible punctuated only by evening briefings needed funds for affected families, and to outpouring of love and tangible support for during which authorities announce whether date, nearly $1.3 million has come in from their friends and neighbors, Jewish and not, is anyone has been recovered at the site. 11,000 donors. This aid will be disbursed per a powerful story, there is much to do and the With each passing hour, hope that anybody family for long-term needs by a confidential day is short. will be found alive diminishes, though the committee. This does not include the separate prospect of a miracle never goes away. discretionary fund The Shul has been utilizing After working at his desk for four hours straight What started as a frantic emergency and for miscellaneous needs that have arisen. It Lipskar looks at the clock. In 45 minutes he 23 needs and likes. This is what drove the Jewish community to flock to donate and volunteer, sort items and “I have to tell you, every kosher restaurant make deliveries, says the senior Rabbi Lipskar. in this area deserves a hand,” says Chana It was a G‑dly way of communicating what Lipskar. “They all jumped at the opportunity they felt, a desire to elevate their surroundings to get involved and help in this very real way.” and do something to light a candle in the darkness. And the displaced and the families A little past 1 o’clock Tuesday afternoon of the deceased and missing have responded Florida Governor Ron DeSantis stops in at in kind. the SoliMar. It is a working visit, not a photo- is meeting with an extended family that op, and the governor listens carefully as “What is being done is amazing,” agrees has flown into Miami, awaiting any word Lipskar and the volunteers describe some of one father who lived with his family in a still- of their loved one who was in Champlain the logistical issues they’ve encountered and standing portion of Champlain Towers South. Towers when it went down. hope they can resolve for the sake of all the His loss, he says, is minimal compared to families involved. those who lost loved ones. Nonetheless, he “I’ve met with these families, and each one and his family have been left with absolutely is different, their story is unique,” he says. “Every single person here besides myself none of their physical possessions. “This is “What connects them all is their palpable is a volunteer,” she tells DeSantis towards exactly what we needed right now.” connection to G‑d. For me to see their raw the end of their conversation. “To see that, I faith in G‑d, it’s powerful.” am so humbled, and in that merit we should Back at the collapsed pile that what was once have—we will have—a miracle. Every person home to so many of Surfside’s own, the work Kosher Food—For Everyone here is doing this for the families.” goes on. Miami Dade fire and police, various Due to the necessarily makeshift nature agencies and volunteers continue operating of how emergency efforts began, the Looking around at the room abuzz with people, under difficult conditions—sweltering, humid main centers of activity for the displaced DeSantis comments on The Shul’s work over heat one moment, pouring rain and lightning and family members have moved multiple the last week. “It’s just phenomenal.” another—joined by teams from Zaka and times. Midweek the family briefing area Chesed Shel Emes on hand to handle remains was moved to the Seaview Hotel, where The Unknowable when needed. governmental and nonprofit resources Until last week devastation and tragedy on such as FEMA, the Red Cross, Jewish such a scale were unheard of on this glittering The pile is a place of tremendous pain and Family Services and the Jewish Federation stretch of Miami coast. The peace, security faint hope, but it is much more than that. Amid have set up stations. Likewise, The and sheer beauty of the Surfside area was the hum of machines, jackhammers and the Shul’s food station—in this Jewish town, part of what made living here so attractive to workers wordlessly digging “there is a silence all the prepared hot food being served so many, including the diverse and growing that is deafening,” says the senior Rabbi to everyone from emergency frontline Jewish community that calls the 33154 area Lipskar. “You feel, perhaps, a G‑dly presence.” workers to families to volunteers is Glatt code home. Despite the overwhelming devastation there is Kosher—has moved several times since a palpable awareness that, no matter what the that first Thursday. On Tuesday morning it Then came the unthinkable. next day brings, the human body is temporal, relocated to the event space of the SoliMar “My phone rang at 2:30 a.m. on Thursday but the spirit, the soul—eternal. condos across the street from The Shul. morning, that’s when I heard,” says The Not long after it was finished being set up, Shul’s spiritual leader Rabbi Sholom Lipskar. One evening this week, a handful of people three buses with families arrived from the When he and his wife, Chani, established the stood at the beach barrier marking the closest briefing station down the block with police Jewish community in Surfside in 1981 at the they can get to Champlain Towers South. escort. direction of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Among those whispering Psalms from their Schneerson, of righteous memory, he knew phones was a mother with her teenage son. It is Chana Lipskar and her team of there’d be difficult days—and there were “Maybe there is someone still alive there,” she volunteers who have led The Shul’s many in their first years—but little could have says. Moved to do something, she came to comfort effort, now at the SoliMar. Coffee prepared him for this. Arriving at Champlain spend a few moments within eyeshot of what and tea, cold and hot cereal, scrambled Towers South on Thursday morning, he found has become a sacred place. “I don’t know eggs and empanadas are amongst the a place of rubble, smoke and overwhelming what will happen, but I know words of prayer breakfast offerings. More than just a dining dust. It was a scene that defied words. will not be in vain.” room, it is a quiet and private space where families come to spend time with each “We do not have it within our capacity to other, and have rabbis and volunteers understand such a tragedy,” he says. “The from the community just be there for them. human mind does not have the dimensional sensations to be able to absorb something of At the same time, The Shul has coordinated this nature intellectually. The only thing that for local kosher restaurants to deliver has any semblance of ability to communicate three meals a day to displaced families, during this period of time is G‑dliness, is the each family able to call the restaurants of neshama, the soul.” their choosing and order what their family 24 25 26 27 28 IN A WOMAN’S WORLD ISSUES OF RELEVANCE TO THE JEWISH WOMAN WEEKLY CLASSES Women’s Mikvah: Please call Mrs. Devorah Failer for an appointment: 305-866 1492 or PLEASE CHECK 305-323-2410 Please Note: Shabbos & Yom Tov visits must be Prepaid OUR VIRTUAL CLASS SCHEDULE FOR ALL THE SHUL CLASSES THAT ARE The Shul Sisterhood

HAPPENING Who we are... The Shul Sisterhood organizes all of The Shul’s programming and USING THE ZOOM APP / ONLINE classes geared toward women in the community. Our objective DURING THIS TIME. is to bring women of all ages and backgrounds together to learn, laugh, experience, and rejuvenate their mind, body and soul. Meet new friends, relax and get inspired! HTTPS://ZOOM. US/J/6457054016 If you would like to be a part of The Shul Sisterhood, PASSWORD: 699576 please call 305. 868.1411

SALTY SESAME AND DARK CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES PREPARATION By Jaime Geller Preheat oven to 350°F.

INGREDIENTS Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. 2 eggs 1 cup brown sugar In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs and sugar until frothy and light. ⅔ cup neutral oil Add oils and soy sauce and whisk to combine. 1 tablespoon sesame oil 2 tablespoons soy sauce Pour flour, oats, cinnamon, and baking soda into center of the bowl. 2 cups flour Use a wooden spoon to combine. 1½ cups oats 1 teaspoon cinnamon Fold in chocolate chips. 1 teaspoon baking soda 1½ cups chocolate chips Scoop tablespoon sized balls and place 2-inches apart on prepared cookie sheets.

Bake at 350°F for 12 minutes.

Cool cookies on cooling racks.

29 FRENCH CONNECTION REFLEXIONS SUR LA PARACHA Toucher l’essence la Rédemption, il déclare qu’Eliahou « tournera Ainsi, non seulement Pin’has risqua-t-il sa vie, le cœur des pères vers les enfants et le cœur a prêtrise peut-elle être une récompense ? mais il le fit alors qu’il n’en avait pas l’obligation. des enfants vers leurs pères ». Et, en décrivant La lecture de la paracha de cette semaine S’il avait laissé les choses passer, personne la mission d’Eliahou, le Rambam écrit qu’« il commence par ces mots: ne lui en aurait fait reproche. Au contraire, viendra uniquement pour établir la paix ». Pour L il lui fallut prendre l’initiative et s’attirer ainsi mettre d’emblée l’accent sur cette direction, « Pin’has, le fils d’Elazar… a détourné ma des critiques. Nos Sages enseignent qu’il agit D.ieu dit à Pin’has qu’en récompense de son colère des Enfants d’Israël en défendant avec à l’encontre des désirs des Sages et que, si zèle, il lui était donné « une alliance de paix ». zèle Ma cause parmi eux… C’est pourquoi… D.ieu ne l’avait pas félicité, les juges auraient Je lui ai donné une alliance de paix. Lui et prononcé l’ostracisme contre lui. Prendre l’initiative ses descendants possèderont une alliance Ces deux dynamiques, le zèle et la paix, sont éternelle de prêtrise, parce qu’il a agi avec zèle Qu’est-ce donc qui motiva Pin’has ? Il voulut « d’importance fondamentale à notre époque. pour son D.ieu. » détourner la colère [de D.ieu] de sur les Enfants Beaucoup de membres de notre peuple d’Israël ». Il avait compris ce qui devait être mènent une vie déconnectée de leurs racines Une question se pose : l’acte de Pin’has fait dans ce but et fut prêt à prendre tous les juives, alors que l’avenir de notre peuple d’exécuter Zimri, décrit à la fin de la lecture risques nécessaires. dépend justement d’un engagement zélé dans de la Torah de la semaine dernière, nécessita la perpétuation de notre héritage. Car c’est la courage et sacrifice de soi. Ce fut certainement C’est là le véritable zèle : mettre son propre conviction intime émanant de l’étincelle divine un acte digne de louanges et de rétribution. bien-être, à la fois spirituel et matériel, de que nous possédons tous qui fait impression Néanmoins, il est curieux que Pin’has reçût côté et s’engager de façon illimitée dans sur autrui. Les arguments intellectuels ne « une alliance de prêtrise éternelle » en l’accomplissement de la volonté de D.ieu. peuvent pénétrer le cœur. Un cœur s’ouvre récompense. La prêtrise, en effet, ne peut pas Quand une personne s’engage de la sorte, à un cœur. C’est donc un engagement zélé, être acquise à travers des actions humaines l’étincelle divine que possède chacun d’entre pénétré de chaleur et d’amour du prochain, qui ; elle ne dépend nullement de quelques nous trouve son expression. motivera nos semblables à découvrir en eux- réalisations spirituelles que ce soit. mêmes leur propre étincelle juive. Réciproquement, une telle approche suscite Comme l’énonce Rachi, de même que l’on ne une réponse illimitée de la part de D.ieu. Car Il existe encore une dimension au zèle de peut changer le matin en soir, on ne peut altérer lorsqu’une personne dépasse ses limites Pin’has. Il n’était pas le dirigeant du peuple la définition de la prêtrise. Dans la mesure où naturelles dans son service divin, D.ieu lui juif. Moïse, Éléazar et les Anciens occupaient Pin’has n’était pas auparavant un prêtre (un accorde une récompense qui n’est pas limitée des positions hiérarchiques supérieures. Et cohen), comment sa conduite, aussi vertueuse par la nature. C’est pour cette raison que pourtant, quand le besoin s’en fit sentir, Pin’has fût-elle, put-elle lui valoir cette distinction ? Pin’has put recevoir le statut de cohen. n’attendit pas les ordres des chefs, mais prit l’initiative. Un service sans limites suscite une Tempérer le zèle avec de l’amour réponse sans limites Nos Sages identifient Pin’has au prophète La même chose s’applique à chacun aujourd’hui, Eliahou. Le service divin d’Eliahou se car chacun d’entre nous à une contribution La résolution de cette problématique s’appuie caractérisait également par le zèle, comme il est unique à faire. Avec la confiance qui émane sur la compréhension de la qualité pour laquelle écrit : « J’ai été très zélé pour l’amour de D.ieu, de la vérité de notre intime conviction, nous la Torah loue Pin’has : le zèle. Pourquoi la le Seigneur des Armées. » Cependant, par devons tous prendre l’initiative de diffuser le Torah décrit-elle Pin’has par cette notion ? cette déclaration, Eliahou opposait sa propre bien et la paix. Tout d’abord, il risqua sa vie. Bien que Zimri fût conduite à celle du peuple juif en général, qu’il soutenu par sa l’ensemble de sa tribu, dont les critiquait pour avoir « abandonné l’alliance [de Ces efforts hâteront la venue d’une ère où membres auraient pu aisément tuer Pin’has, ce D.ieu] ». Eliahou identifié à Pin’has reviendra. Et alors « la dernier ne prit pas en considération le danger voix du héraut annoncera de bonnes nouvelles qu’il courait. Ce qui le préoccupait était le D.ieu refusa d’accepter cette critique. Il nomma », la venue de Machia’h et la Rédemption de danger spirituel qui menaçait le peuple juif et Eliahou « ange de l’alliance » et le chargea notre peuple et de toute l’humanité. il était prêt à risquer sa vie pour éliminer cette d’assister à chaque circoncision juive à venir, menace. de sorte qu’il puisse attester de leur fidélité à l’alliance avec D.ieu. Il y a aussi une dimension plus profonde à l’engagement de Pin’has. Nos Sages relatent D.ieu enseigna à Eliahou que son zèle devait que lorsqu’un homme juif cohabite avec une être modéré par l’Ahavat Israël, l’amour pour femme non-juive, « les zélés ont [le droit6 de] chacun des membres de notre peuple, et l’attaquer ». Cependant, « bien que ce soit qu’il devait s’appliquer à trouver les qualités la loi, son application n’est pas ordonnée ». du peuple. Ces traits devinrent une partie Cela signifie que si un homme demandait à un intégrante de la mission personnelle d’Eliahou tribunal juif s’il doit tuer un homme commettant au point où lorsque le prophète Malakhi décrit un tel acte, les juges ne doivent pas lui dire de le retour d’Eliahou pour annoncer la venue de le faire. 30 LATIN LINK REFLEXION SEMANAL Parasha de la Semana ¿Quién toma tus decisiones? Por Naftali Silberberg

na vez le preguntaron a un hombre casado Ucuál era el secreto de su feliz matrimonio. “Es sencillo”, respondió. “Nos dividimos las responsabilidades. Hace mucho tiempo decidimos que mi esposa toma todas las decisiones pequeñas y rutinarias, y yo tomo las más importantes.

“Ella decide qué casa compramos, adónde vamos de vacaciones, si los niños van a escuelas privadas, si yo debo cambiar de trabajo, y cosas por el estilo”.

“¿Y cuáles son las grandes decisiones?”

“Bueno, yo tomo las grandes decisiones, las que residimos, etc. Pero, de hecho, estas preguntas son fundamentales. Decido si Estados Unidos Sin embargo, la decisión última la tomó el azar. ya han sido respondidas en su totalidad incluso debe declararle la guerra a China, si el Congreso Luego de que la tierra se dividiera en doce antes de que nosotros fuéramos concebidos. debería recaudar dinero para enviar una porciones, cada una de las porciones destinadas Sí, Di-s espera que tomemos decisiones sabias, expedición tripulada a Marte... ese tipo de cosas”. a una tribu en particular, con la población pero en última instancia estas decisiones sabias correspondiente a su tamaño, se llevó a cabo están manipuladas y guiadas por Di-s, que La vida es una serie de elecciones y un sorteo para determinar qué tribu recibiría orquesta las circunstancias para asegurarse decisiones. Sin embargo, las decisiones son cada porción. Por milagro, el sorteo confirmó la de que sigamos el camino que Él planeó para relativamente simples en comparación con división que se había acordado. nosotros. su implementación. La mayoría de nosotros “elige” vivir de manera saludable; ser mejores ¿Cuál era la necesidad de este proceso de dos Y aun así podemos enorgullecernos de ser como padres, esposos y también mejorar instancias? Si la división pretendía ser lógica, criaturas que tienen la libertad de elegir. Pero nuestras capacidades interpersonales; conocer ¿por qué se necesitó de un sorteo? Y si había esa elección está relegada al campo de lo más; avanzar en nuestras profesiones; etc. El que dejarla en manos de Di-s —mediante un que está bien y lo que está mal, de la ética y desafío es llevar a cabo estas decisiones. El sorteo—, ¿qué necesidad de invertir tiempo y de la moral. Tenemos la capacidad de elegir si truco está en concentrarse en una, dos o tres energía en cálculos, logística y evaluaciones? rezaremos concentrados, si donaremos a caridad, de estas elecciones. Pero eso nos lleva a tomar si seremos amables con nuestros pares y si otra decisión. ¿En cuál de estas elecciones Quizás la lección que Di-s quería enseñarles a mantendremos la cashrut. Y en última instancia, deberíamos enfocarnos? los israelitas antes de que entraran a la tierra, nuestras elecciones en estos terrenos serán antes de que se iniciaran en el arte de ganarse nuestro legado: porque en realidad son nuestras Para obtener un poco de perspectiva sobre la vida y todas las decisiones que eso implica, únicas elecciones reales, no influenciadas. este asunto, echemos un vistazo a la Torá, era que esas decisiones que parecen estar específicamente a la descripción de los métodos en nuestras manos están también, en última Entonces, ¿en qué elecciones nos vamos a según los cuales tenía que dividirse la Tierra instancia, determinadas por el azar, orquestadas enfocar? ¿En las “grandes”, sobre las que no Prometida entre las tribus. por la mano de Di-s. tenemos control en absoluto, o en las “pequeñas”, que están por completo en nuestras manos? “A la tribu más grande aumentarás su heredad, El Talmud nos cuenta que cuarenta días antes y a la más pequeña disminuirás su heredad” de la concepción de un niño, un ángel se acerca Resulta que son las pequeñas elecciones (Bamidbar 26:54). La división de la tierra era a Di-s y le pregunta si el niño será sabio o tonto, aquellas que tienen un impacto en el mundo. lógica: cada tribu recibía un lote según su fuerte o frágil, rico o pobre y con quién se casará. tamaño. Además, la tierra no se dividía solo sobre Sin embargo, no le pregunta si será honrado o la base de su extensión, sino que se evaluaba malvado, porque “todo está en manos del Cielo, su calidad y su potencial de rendimiento, para excepto el miedo (de la persona) al Cielo”. asegurar que cada tribu recibiera una porción justa. Podemos pensar que nosotros elegimos nuestra pareja, nuestra área de trabajo, la ciudad en la que 31 PLEASE READ ONLY NETWORKING AFTER SHABBOS EFFECTIVE ADVERTISING

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33 NUMBERS TO KNOW

CONTACTS AT THE SHUL 305.868.1411 Rabbi Rabbi Sholom Lipskar [email protected] Ext 311 Rebbetzin Rebbetzin Chani Lipskar [email protected] 305.992.8363 Associate Rabbi Rabbi Zalman Lipskar [email protected] Ext 345 Rabbi’s Executive Assistant / CYS Ms. Lydia Hasson [email protected] Ext 311 JLAC / Adult Ed/ Singles Rabbi Shea Rubinstein [email protected] Ext 342 CYS College / Kolel Rabbi Dov Schochet [email protected] 305.790.8294 Youth Director / Hebrew School Rabbi Shaykee Farkash [email protected] Ext 329 Pre-School Director Mrs. Chana Lipskar [email protected] Ext 325 Accounting Mrs. Geri Kelly [email protected] Ext 341 Controller Mrs. Janice Barney [email protected] Ext 318 Events / Office Manager Ms. Milena Liascovitz [email protected] Ext 328 Director of Events and Marketing Mrs. Devorah Leah Andrusier [email protected] Ext 313 Operations / Maintenance Rabbi Shlomi Katan [email protected] Ext 319 Reception Mrs. Mindy Natoli [email protected] Ext 0 Sephardic Minyan Rabbi Yair Massri [email protected] 917.982.6165 Hashkama Minyan Mr. Lazer Milstein 305.349.3040 Editor Mrs. Aurit Katan [email protected] 786.382.9006 Mashgiach Mr. Mordechai Olesky [email protected] 786.262.9115 Mikvah Mrs. Devorah Failer [email protected] 305.323.2410

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Sidney Feltenstein - Chairman Alberto Kamhazi Simon Falic Shmuel Katz M.D. Matias Garfunkel Leo Kryss Ambassador Isaac Gilinski Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar Jaime Gilinski Lazer Milstein Max Gilinski David Schottenstein Saul Gilinski Ryan Shapiro Sam Greenberg Claudio Stivelman Abel Holtz Morris Tabacinic Mike Izak BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jacob Givner - President Anita Givner Steven M. Dunn - Vice President Sam Greenwald EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE David Wolf - Vice President Sharon Hakmon Joey Givner - Chair Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar Mitchell Feldman - VP Oversight Ben Jacobson Devorah Leah Andrusier Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar - VP Development Albert Lichy Janice Barney Lazer Milstein Eric P. Stein - Treasurer Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar Joel Baum Orit Osman Joel Baum - Financial Treasurer Alexander Matz Steven Dunn Brian Roller Dovid Duchman - Secretary Ezzy Rappaport Velvel Freedman - Associate Secretary Elliott Rimon Maurice Egozi Ryan Shapiro Carolyn Baumel Yaacov Saidof Henry Eichler Marc Sheridan Max Benoliel Seth Salver Mitchell Feldman Daniel Sragowicz Betzalel Camissar Alex Tauber Daniel Gielchinsky Cynthia Stein Barry Cohen Jordan Wachtel Evelyn Katz Eric P. Stein Boruch Duchman Rebbetzin Chani Lipskar Michael Tabacinic Henry Eichler 34 CAMP GAN ISRAEL AT THE SHUL BEGAN THIS WEEK AND THE CHILDREN WERE ABLE TO ENJOY A FUN FILLED WEEK OF LEARNING, TRIPS, WATER ACTIVITIES, FRIENDSHIP AND WARMTH COMING TOGETHER IN THE FACE OF THE SURFSIDE TRAGEDY