B”H

THEWEEKLY MAGAZINE SHUL SPONSORED BY MR. & MRS. MARTIN (OBM) AND ETHEL SIROTKIN & DR. & MRS. SHMUEL AND EVELYN KATZ

SHABBOS PARSHAS ACHAREI - KEDOSHIM 7 -IYAR 8 MAY 1 - 2 CANDLE LIGHTING: 7:34 PM SHABBOS ENDS: 8:29 PM

PESACH SHEINI FRIDAY IYAR 14 - MAY 8

The Shul - Lubavitch - An institution of The Lubavitcher , 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 THE SHUL BAT CLUB LEARNS TO CHECK LETTUCE Weekly Message: 3 Thoughts on the Parsha - Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar Celebrating Shabbos: 4 - 5 Schedules, classes, articles & more... Everything you need for an “Over the Top” Shabbos experience Community Happenings: 6 -7 Sharing with your Shul Family A Time to Pray: 8 Check out all the davening schedules and locations throughout the week Daily Study: 9 A complete guide to all classes and courses ofered at The Shul Inspiration, Insights & Ideas: 10 - 21 Bringing lessons to LIFE

THE SHUL HEBREW SCHOOL CELEBRATES AND LEARNS ABOUT ISRAEL French Connection 22 Reflexions sur la Paracha Latin Link 23 Reflexion Semanal In a Woman’s World 24 Issues of relevance to the Jewish woman

Networking 25 Efective Advertising

Numbers To Know 26 Contacts at The Shul Get The Picture 27 - 28 The full scoop on all the great events around town

THE WOMEN’S WEEKLY PIRKEI AVOS CLASS QUOTABLE QUOTE

Against your will you are formed, against your will you are born, against your will you live, against your will you die...

– Ethics of the Fathers 4:22 THOUGHTS ON THE PARSHA FROM RABBI SHOLOM LIPSKAR SHABBOS PARSHAS ACHAREI - KEDOSHIM he names of the two to civilization. The rational inconsistencies of painful portions, read this realities with unconditional faith require a paradigm of week as one, contain living that is beyond the obvious and practical. Ta most vital concept of Jewishness. Acharei Mos, It is not enough for us to be good, proper, ethical and meaning “after the death” moral. That is required of every human. We need to refers to the untimely be Holy. death of ’s two oldest sons during the Have a good Shabbos and a great week. dedication ceremonies of the Tabernacle. Their lives were excised due to the non-traditional, non- conforming nature of Rabbi S. Lipskar their service to G-d, choosing to discard the mandated restrictions in order to experience what they considered a higher level of devotion. We are then taught the order of the service and the laws of morality. UNAPOCALYPSE

Kedoshim means Holy. The Jewish people are charged !"#$%&'()*%&+$%,'-%.(/+-/*%0'(%$'1/%+2'.+)32-#.% to be Holy. The word Holy is really a transcendent 4,+)/5 term which conjures an otherworldly, beyond-physical #-$%1+6,#4./,./%&+$%,'-%0'(1/*%-'%*#$$#2+-/%#,-'% reality. What does it mean for someone or something #',#7/*%6+$8 to be Holy? The physiology and matter of a Holy object is exactly the same as a mundane one. The tangible chemical structure is not altered by its being Holy. 9+."%-"#,6%&+$%0'(1/*%0'(%-"/%6)'(3%'0%#-$%:+;/(<% &"'%$-+,*$%0'(/=/(8 Atheists and agnostics do not have use for the word Holy. They may refer to someone or something as beautiful, great or even exquisite but not Holy. Holiness >,)3%-"/%*+(;,/$$%1?$-%&#,*%#-$/)0%-'%#-$%/,*<%+,*% requires the fusion of the material and spiritual. It is #-%1?$-%@/%('@@/*%'0%-"/%-(/+$?(/$%#-%"')*$8%A'(% the recognition and realization of a higher form and -"/%1'$-%2(/.#'?$%-"#,6$%'0%-"#$%&'()*%+(/%"/)*%#,% order that inhabits the regular and lowly. *+(;,/$$8

The Jewish people are Holy, they are transcendent, they operate beyond the limits of history and nature. !"+-%#$%&"3%&/%1?$-%$-(?66)/%&#-"%-"/%*+(;,/$$% That is why “After the death” when one can question ,'&%+,*%,'-%(?,%0('1%#-8 G-d, the Torah states that Aaron, the Father was still/ silent, as he continued to fulfill all the requirements of B))%-"/%-'(1/,-%#-%6#=/$%?$<%+))%'?(%-'#)%-'%'=/(.'1/% Yom Kippur and live by G-d’s order. #-<% -'% -+1/% #-% +,*% -'% *#6% '?-% -"/% *#+1',*$% #-% Without holiness one could not logically reconcile the .',./+)$<%+))%#$%&#-"%1/+,#,6%+,*%2?(2'$/8 unfortunate reality of Jewish persecution, holocausts, Coronavirus or the unfortunate passing a young, A'(% /+."% '@$-+.)/% -"+-% 1//-$% ?$% ',% '?(% ?2"#))% brilliant, beautiful boy in a sudden unexpected accident, @+--)/<%/+."%&+$%1+*/%0'(%-"/%6)'(3%'0%#-$%:+;/(8 with Jewish continuity and exemplary contributions 3 CELEBRATING SHABBOS WITH OUR YOUTH EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN “OVER THE TOP” SHABBOS EXPERIENCE PARSHA IN PICTURES Test your Parsha knowledge. Can you tell the story of the parsha using the pictures below

Morah Malkie’s Tanya Andrusier Sara Fraida Katan Menashe New Chaya Mushaka Tot Tot Shabbat 2 Pre Tween Girls Pre-Tween Boys Lipskar Aleph Wonder Girls Ages: 0 - 3 Pre1 - K Grades: 4 - 5 Grades: 5 - 6 11:00 am - 12:00 pm 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Grades: 1 - 3 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Back of Women’s Back of Women’s Section section Montessori 1 Haime Library Montessori 2

NO YOUTH PROGRAMS THIS WEEK Kaylee Andrusier Zalmen Rosenfeld Chayale Lipskar Mendel Shur Teen Girls Davening With Dad Tween Girls Teen Boys Youth Boys Grades: 9th - 10th Grades: 1 - 4 Grades: 7th - 8th Grades: 6 - 8 Grades: 9th - 12th 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 10:30 am - 12:00 pm 10:30 am - 12:00 pm 10:30 am - 12:00 pm 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Montessori 3 Teen Girls Room Montessori 3 Back Offce Sephardic Shul 4 CELEBRATING SHABBOS EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN “OVER THE TOP” SHABBOS EXPERIENCE

KIDDUSH THIS WEEK: SHABBOS SCHEDULE Kiddush this week is available for sponsorship.

Candle lighting 7:34 p.m. Mincha / Kabbalas Shabbos 7:35 p.m. SHALOSH SEUDOS THIS WEEK: Shalosh Seudos this week is available for Shabbos Day Hashkama Minyan 7:15 a.m. sponsorship. Tanya / Hayom Yom 8:50 a.m. Shacharis (Morning Services) 9:00 a.m. Children’s Programs 10:00 a.m. THE SHUL IS CLOSED TEMPORARILY. Upstairs Minyan 10:30 a.m. The following dates are available for sponsorship: Kiddush 12:00 p.m. Daf Yomi THERE WILL BE6:00 NOp.m. MINYANIM THIS SHABBOS Kiddush AT THE SHUL Shalosh Seudos Men’s Shiur 6:00 p.m. March 14, 28 March 14, 21, 28

Women’s Shiur 6:00 p.m. If you wish to become a sponsor, please speak with Milena Shalosh Seudos for Boys 6:00 p.m. at 305-868-1411 ext 328 or email [email protected] Mincha 7:00 p.m. Pirkei Avos Chapter 3 Shabbos Ends / Ma’ariv & Havdalah 8:29 p.m. Count The Omer - Day 24

Weekly Video of The Rebbe KIDDUSHIM AT THE SHUL Sephardic Minyan Friday Evening Please help us to provide our weekly Shabbos Kiddush and Mincha / Kabbalat Shabbat 7:00 p.m. Shalosh Seudos by becoming a sponsor. Or join the Kiddush Bank by becoming a Partner ($770 annually ) Shabbat Day 9:00 a.m. or Patron ($360 anually) Mincha 7:00 p.m. Shabbos Ends / Ma’ariv & Havdalah 8:29 p.m.

Next Week: Shabbos Parshas Emor Candle Lighting 7:38 p.m.

Mincha 7:40 p.m.

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

5 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS SHARING WITH YOUR SHUL FAMILY

BIRTHDAYS YAHRTZEITS 8 Iyar Mr. Velvel Freedman 8 Iyar Rivkah Devorah bas Tzvi obm 8 Iyar Mrs. Batsheva Levy Wife of Mr. Andrew Roth 8 Iyar Mr. Yoel Smulevich 8 Iyar Chaim Leib ben Yitzchak obm 9 Iyar Ms. Sarah Btesh Father of Mrs. Lillian Glick 9 Iyar Ms. Melanie Paula Chapaval Lebensztajn 9 Iyar Rochel Esther bas Benjamin obm 9 Iyar Mr. Hershel Danzinger Mother of Dr. Fran Glicksman 9 Iyar Mrs. Esther De Saias 9 Iyar Josef ben Shimon Hanouch HaCohen obm 9 Iyar Mr. Zev Gontownik Husband of Ms. Marilyn Cohen 9 Iyar Ms. Aliya Amit Kordich 11 Iyar Avraham ben Yitzchak obm 9 Iyar Mr. Musikar Uncle of Ms. Lydia Hasson 9 Iyar Ms. Harlon Waksal 12 Iyar Meir ben Avraham obm 10 Iyar Judge Mark Blumstein Father of Mrs. Joyce Robinson 10 Iyar Mrs. Nicole Bouhadana 13 Iyar Tziona bas Esther obm 10 Iyar Ms. Dahlia Jacobs Sister of Mrs. Yafa Raviv 10 Iyar Mr. Jonah Levine 13 Iyar Chashka bas Reuvain Hacohen obm 10 Iyar Mrs. Veronica Levine Mother-in-law of Mrs. Estela Berry 10 Iyar Ms. Tifany Nanikashvili 13 Iyar Shlomo ben Sara obm 11 Iyar Mrs. Tova Bryski Husband of Mrs. Mireille Shaio 11 Iyar Mr. Diego Goldfarb 13 Iyar Mota ben Yosef obm 11 Iyar Mrs. Anne S. Kirschner Brother of Mr. Irving Hoine 11 Iyar Mr. Edward Marcus 13 Iyar Aryeh Leib ben Shmuel obm 11 Iyar Mrs. Hindy Rivkin Father of Dr. Raymond Failer 11 Iyar Mr. Yaacov Schwartz 14 Iyar Krena bas Avrohom obm 11 Iyar Mrs. Rivka Shapiro Mother of Mr. Barry Wax 12 Iyar Dr. Michael Bogachek 12 Iyar Mrs. Fortuna Kopel 13 Iyar Ms. Arielle Anhalt 13 Iyar Mr. Shlomie Katan CONDOLENCES 13 Iyar Mr. Jonathan Levy Our heartfelt condolences go out to Mr. Jean Jacques 13 Iyar Mr. Marc Olesky Edderai on the passing of his beloved mother, Luisa (Awisha 13 Iyar Mr. Yankie Weiss Bat Simcha obm. May her dear soul be bound with the 14 Iyar Mrs. Chaya Best Eternal Bond of Life and may the family be comforted 14 Iyar Mr. Daan Jacob Kofer among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem. 14 Iyar Mr. Yossi Lapidus 14 Iyar Mrs. Monica Sugar MAZAL TOV KID’S BIRTHDAYS Mazal Tov to Mr. & Mrs. Albert and Erica Lichy on the birth of 8 Iyar Gabriel Segal a daughter. May they raise her to Torah, Chupah and Ma’asim 10 Iyar Daniel Elnatan Ness Tovim and have much nachas from her. 11 Iyar Ava Leah Greenwald 12 Iyar Nathan Sragowicz 13 Iyar Bella Leah Shagalov 14 Iyar Jake Mayer Gelb

6 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS SHARING WITH YOUR SHUL FAMILY IYAR LIGHT & POWER THANKS TO OUR DONORS We sincerely thank the following members and supporters of The Shul Light & Power and Wine for Kiddush & Havdalah for donations received between 04/21/20 and 04/27/20 for the month of Iyar is Kindly Sponsored by We apologize for any errors or omissions that we may have made. Mr. & Mrs. Levi Mr. & Mrs. Asher Boymelgreen David Milstein Mr. Julian A. Cohen Mr. & Mrs. Jack Osman Mr. & Mrs. Yanky and Odelia Weiss Mr. & Mrs. Gabriel Mr. Michel Pery in honor of their children Groisman Mr. & Mrs. David Mr. & Mrs. Shaya Schottenstein Naomi, Mayer and Eli Klein-Weberman Mr. & Mrs. David Schwartz and in honor of Yankie’s Birthday Mr. & Mrs. Jacky Koenig Mr. & Mrs. Yossi Sokol Mr. David Lekach Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Mr. & Mrs. Lorne Sragowicz “Those who establish Synagogues for prayer and those who come there to Lieberman Mr. & Mrs. Adam Ziefer Mr. & Mrs. Asher Mamane pray, those who provide lights for illumination, wine and grape juice for kiddush and havdalah, food for the wayfarers and charity for the needy, and all those who occupy themselves faithfully with communal affairs - may The Holy One, COMMUNITY NOTICE BOARD blessed be He, give them their reward, remove them from all sicknesses, heal Dearest Community Family, their entire body, pardon all their sins, and send blessing and success to all While our ofces are currently closed, the Shul their endeavors, together with all Israel their brethren; and let us say Amen.” Shluchim and Staf are always here for you. We are frequently checking emails and remain available by phone, if there is anything we can do to assist you.

Please feel free to call The Shul at (305) 868-1411 ext. 311 (calls are being forwarded to home numbers) or send an email to [email protected] and we will be happy to assist you or relay your messages to Rabbi REFUAH SHLEIMAH and Rebbetzin Lipskar, or relevant department. For If you have a health update on anyone listed please contact The Shul. We would like to regular updates, please check our website keep the listing current and remove names of people who have recovered. www.TheShul.org. MEN WOMEN Yehonatan HaLevi ben Malka Esther Yocheved bas Raizel Whatever the need, we will make every efort to Eliezer ben Sarah Bracha assist you where possible. Aharon ben Beylah Shima Leah bas Gittel In the meantime, please take the recommendations Meyer Eliezer ben Sarah Sarah Libke bas Baile of the health authorities very seriously. The best Menachem Mendel ben Sara Chana Bayla bas Masha way to stop the spread is to stay home and avoid Yehoshua ben Tamara Rina Chaya Miriam bas Leah exposing yourself and others to contagion as much Isaac Gilbert ben Nelly Esther Bracha as possible, especially those who are at greater risk. Bentzion ben Nomi Rachel Genya Baila bas Gisela Margalite Sonia Simcha bat Sultana You can socialize online by joining one of our daily Eber Avraham ben Fruma Tzipora Pnina bas Slava classes - the full schedule is under the Education menu. If you would like to join, please download Esther Feige bas Krandel the Zoom app from the Apple App Store or Android. Shlomo Yaakov ben Chaya Tziporah Pnina bas Slava Once downloaded on your phone or computer, you Sarah Rochel Chaya Miriam Yehudit bat can join the class by using this link: Chaim Zelig Ben Eidel Chava https://zoom.us/j/6457054016 Ari ben Na’ama Clara bat Corina Tzvi Yitzchak ben Chaya Rivka bat Shoshana With very best wishes, Chaim Tzvi Hirsch ben Guttel Miriam bat Risha Raizel The Shul Shluchim and Staf

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

DAILY LEARNING SCHEDULE AT THE SHUL - ALL LEARNING IS BEING DONE VIRTUALLY. PLEASE CHECK THE "DAILY VIRTUAL SCHEDULE" FOR UPDATED TIMES, TOPICS AND CLASSES. 6:20 -6:50 am The Rebbe’s Maamorim Chassidic Discourse R’ Zalman Lipskar 7:45 am Daf Yomi R’ Dov Schochet 10:15 - 11:00 am Maamorim Maamor of the Rebbe R’ Shea Rubinstein

CURRENTLY THERE ARE NOT MINYANIM AT THE SHUL

SHACHARIS MINYANIM (MON - FRI) SUNDAY SHACHARIS MINYANIM Main Minyan 6:50 7:30 9:00 Main Minyan 8:00 am 9:00 am Sephardic Minyan 7:45 Sephardic Minyan 8:00 am DAILY CHUMASH & TANYA AFTER EVERY MINYAN SUNDAY MINCHA / MINCHA / MAARIV MINYANIM (MON - THURS) MAARIV MINYANIM Main Minyan 2:00 pm Early Mincha 7:35 pm 10:00 pm Sephardic Minyan 7:35 pm Following Main Minyan 7:35 pm

EVENING KOLEL SCHEDULE - MONDAY AND THURSDAY 8:45 -9:30 PM Mon & Thurs 8:45 - 10:00 pm Evening Community Kolel Chavrusah To our beloved Soldiers in the Israeli Defense HALACHIC TIMES Forces, courageously protecting and defending BASED ON TIMES FOR MAY 6 Eretz Yisroel. We pray for you and all of the soldiers safety and well being daily.

Alot Hashachar / Dawn 5:21 am Menachem Mendel ben Chaya Leah Earliest Talit & Tefllin 5:55 am Daniella Malka bat Natanya Netz Hachamah / Sunrise 6:40 am Menachem Mendel ben Aurit (Earliest Amidah) Eden Chana bat Karine Cecile Benyamin Aharon ben Jeniya Gila Rut Latest Shema 9:56 am Zman Tfllah 11:03 am Chatzot / Midday 1:17 pm Earliest Mincha 1:51 pm Plag HaMincha 6:35 pm Shekiah / Sunset 7:55 pm (Preferable latest time for Mincha) Tzeit Hakochavim / Nightfall 8:20 pm (Earliest preferable Ma’ariv)

Times taken from www.chabad.org Please note that during the week times may Vary by a minute or two. If anyone would like to send us the name of a soldier in the IDF we would love to add them. 8 DAILY STUDY A COMPLETE GUIDE TO ALL CLASSES AND COURSES OFFERED AT THE SHUL HTTPS://ZOOM.US/ 6457054016 ALL OUR CLASSES ARE HAPPENING "VIRTUALLY" PLEASE DOWNLOAD THE ZOOM APP FROM APPLE STORE OR ANDRIOD AND JOIN OUR CLASSES. UPDATED CLASS SCHEDULES ARE EMAILED OUT DAILY

DAILY CLASSES SUNDAY MONDAY

The ’ Maamorim 6:20 - 6:50 am Daf Yomi 9:00 am In Depth Chumash 1:30 pm PHL 101 PHL-301 PHL-501 Rabbi Z. Lipskar TXT 220 Rabbi Dov Schochet TXT-110 Rabbi Dov Schochet (Men Only) (Men Only) (Men and Women) Daf Yomi 7:45 - 8:45 am TXT-220 Rabbi Dov Schochet Tanya - Sichos 8:00 - 10:00 pm Insights to our Torah Portion (Men Only) PHL-322 Rabbi Shlomo Haltzband (Spanish) 8:45 - 9:45 pm (Men Only) PHL-120 Rabbi Shea Rubinstien Chassisdic Discourses 10:15 - 11:00 am (Men and Women) PHL-322 PHL-510 Rabbi Shea Rubinstien Women’s Study Group 8:30 - 10:00 pm (Men Only) TXT-110 Rebbetzin Chani Lipskar Community Kollel (Men) 8:00 - 9:30 pm At the home of: PLEASE CALL THE SHUL (Monday & Thursday) LAW-154 FOR DETAILS (Men Only)

WEDNESDAY TUESDAY THURSDAY Megillot - Men and Women 8:45 -9:30am TXT 121 Studies in the fve Megillot Rabbi Dov Schochet Parsha (Men & Women) Purposeful Prayer 11:00am - 12:00 pm 11:15 am - 12:00 pm TXT-101 - Rabbi Shea Rubinstein Women’s Torah Class 10:00 - 11:30 am TXT-501 Rabbi Shea Rubinstien (Men and Women) TXT-110 Rebbetzin Chani Lipskar Tanya Class In Spanish ( Women) Chassidic Discourses (Men & Women) Senior Torah Academy (Men & Women) 10:45 am - 12:00pm 11:30 - 12:30 pm 12:00 - 1:00 pm PHL-120 Mrs. Vivian Perez PHL-320 PHL-501 Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar TXT-120 Rabbi Dov Schochet or Rabbi Zalman Lipskar 198 Park Drive, Bal Harbour Village (Main Sanctuary) Book of Judges - Years 2780 -2835 Tanya Class - English 1:15 - 3:00 pm Senior Torah Academy 12:00 - 1:00 pm PHL-120 Mrs. Vivian Perez Women’s Tanya Class (Spanish) Pirkei Avot ETH-101 Rabbi Dov Schochet 198 Park Drive, Bal Harbour Village 11:00 am - 12:00 pm PHL-320 Mrs. Vivian Perez (Men and Women) Spanish Kolel - Chassidus 8:00 - 10:00 pm PHL-301 Rabbi Shlomo Haltzband - (Men only) Call Vivian for details - 305.213.3202

9 DAILY WISDOM Inspiring insights on the Torah

Shabbos, 8 Iyar

Whom to Love [G-d instructed to tell the Jewish people,] “I am G-d . . . who has distinguished you from other peoples [by giving you My laws].” Leviticus 20:24 Feelings of love toward another person can be very strong. So strong, in fact, that they might cause us to consider defying the Torah’s prohibitions or even forsaking G-d altogether if we become attached to someone forbidden to us. G-d therefore reminds us that He, the creator of the world and the source of love, issued these prohibitions, so we should not expect any positive outcome from transgressing them. Should we ask why G-d implanted in us the ability to become so strongly attached to another person that it might compel us to defy Him, the answer is: in order to reward us commensurately for overcoming this challenge; we can be assured that G-d can be relied upon to reward us amply when we comply with His will.

Sunday, 9 Iyar Monday, 10 Iyar Not Shirking Responsibility The Gentle Way to Educate [G-d told Moses that a high priest] may not ritually G-d spoke to Moses, saying, “Speak to Aaron.” Leviticus defile himself by touching a corpse [unless there is no 21:16-17 one else to bury it]. Leviticus 21:11 The Torah mainly uses two Hebrew words for “speaking.” The The high priest’s obligation to ritually defile himself in first (dibur) is reserved for “hard speech,” the straightforward, order to bury an unattended corpse applies even in the accurate delivery of the message. The second (amirah) is “soft unlikely event that such a situation presents itself while speech,” i.e., tailoring the message to its intended recipient in he is performing the sacrificial rites of Yom Kippur in order to ensure that it is indeed received and clearly understood. the Holy of Holies. If there is no one else who can bury this corpse, the high priest must leave the most sacred The first part of this section of the Torah, which contains the part of the Tabernacle on the holiest day of the year in laws regarding the priests’ duty to educate their children in order to do so. This teaches us, firstly, that taking care the responsibilities of the priesthood, is couched exclusively of our fellow ’ crucial needs takes precedence over in “soft speech.” It is only when G-d returns to the other laws tending to our own spiritual tasks. concerning the priests that He once again uses “hard speech.”

Secondly, we sometimes encounter people who may be This teaches us that we must educate primarily with “soft considered, figuratively speaking, “unattended, lifeless speech.” In order to be effective, educators must relate fully to bodies” – i.e., people who pay no attention to the their students and tailor their style of delivery accordingly. spiritual side of life and who have no one else to guide them in this regard. In such cases, we must seize the G-d’s imperative regarding how the priests educate their youth opportunity to assist them, reminding ourselves that applies to us all. Whenever we see in someone a behavior even the high priest is required to disregard his most or attitude that is in need of inspiration or correction, we are exalted responsibilities on the holy day of Yom Kippur immediately cast by Divine providence in the role of educator. in order to bury an unattended corpse. We, in contrast, In all such cases, we must remember G-d’s instruction to make have both the obligation and privilege of not merely exclusive use of “soft speech.” attending to a “lifeless” person – but of reviving him!

10 Tuesday, 11 Nissan Wednesday, 12 Iyar

Maintaining Proper Focus Nurturing Emotions to Maturity [G-d told Moses,] “On the 15th day of the month [of [G-d told Moses,] “When [an animal] is born, it ] begins the Festival of .” Leviticus 23:6 must remain in its mother’s care for seven days; it will be accepted as a sacrifice . . . from the eighth Although throughout the Torah, this festival is usually day [of its life] onward. Leviticus 22:27 referred to as “the Festival of Matzos,” in common usage it is usually called “.” (The term “Passover” in The mystical meaning of this law is as follows: the Torah always refers to the sacrifice associated with this holiday rather than to the holiday itself.) According to “Mother” signifies the intellect, since the intellect “gives the Chassidic master Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev, birth” to the emotions. When the intellect recognizes the the two names reflect two different perspectives on the virtue of something or someone, it “gives birth” to the holiday. emotion of love for it; when it recognizes the undesirability or harmfulness of something or someone, it “gives birth” G-d wishes to stress the greatness of the Jewish people; to the emotion of hatred or fear for it; and so on. He therefore focuses on the matzah. Matzah recalls how the Jews left Egypt in such haste that they did not have The “animal” signifies the emotions, since animals are time to let their dough rise, highlighting their implicit faith driven by their instinctive emotions rather than by intellect. in G-d and their willingness to follow Him wherever He directed them to go. We, on the other hand, relate to the When an emotion is first “born,” it must be matured by holiday as an opportunity to praise G-d and thank Him; the intellect. This process takes place over the course of we therefore refer to it as Passover, recalling G-d’s great seven “days,” i.e., it is a sevenfold process – one for each miracles, particularly when He “passed over” the Jewish of the seven basic emotions. Only after the emotions have homes and brought His plagues only upon the Egyptians. been matured are they fit to be “an offering for G-d,” i.e., We should relate similarly to all our worldly worthy of becoming part of the psyche of a human being accomplishments. Rather than focusing on our exceptional dedicated to G-d’s service. abilities, which enabled us to succeed, we should focus on how G-d’s “hand” always miraculously assists us. We should leave it to G-d to focus on our merits!

Thursday, 13 Iyar

Spiritual Heights of the Sabbath Friday, 14 Iyar [G-d told Moses,] “The first day of the seventh Rising Above the Physical World month [] will be . . . a remembrance of [G-d instructed Moses to tell the Jewish people,] “You the shofar blast.” Leviticus 23:24 must live in huts (sukot) throughout this seven-day The sounding of the shofar on the first day of the period.” Leviticus 23:42 year elicits new Divine energy that will sustain The sukah is unique among the Torah’s commandments in that it all creation, spiritual and physical, for that year. is the only one that we physically enter; the sukah surrounds us However, when coincides with on all sides. This property of the sukah is a physical manifestation the Sabbath, the shofar is not sounded; we only of the Divine energy that the sukah embodies: the awareness that “remember” it by mentioning it in our prayers. G-d exists apart from the world and beyond its limitations.

This is because blowing the shofar on the We are taught that spiritually, the sukah derives from the cloud Sabbath is not only superfluous but pointless. produced when the high priest would burn incense in the Holy G-d’s sovereignty over us is the primary theme of Holies on Yom Kippur. Whereas the animal sacrifices focused of Rosh HaShanah. Sounding the shofar at primarily on refining our human/animal soul, the incense G-d’s “coronation” is our declaration of our expressed the inner consciousness of our Divine soul. Our renewed selfless and voluntary submission to Divine soul operates on a higher plane than that of our normal, His sovereignty. The need for such a declaration, human/animal consciousness. The Divine soul enables us to however, implies that we are conscious of transcend the limits imposed on our lives by our human/animal ourselves as independent beings who must soul, whose intellect and emotions are focused solely on physical submit to G-d intentionally. Such self-awareness things. Thus, our task on the holiday of Sukot is firstly to focus on characterizes our consciousness on weekdays. On G-d’s unlimited Divinity by building the sukah, and secondly, to the Sabbath, in contrast, when we are inherently internalize our awareness of this Divinity both by dwelling in the absorbed in our heightened Divine consciousness, sukah and by fulfilling the commandment of holding and waving such a declaration is redundant. the four plant-parts. 11 PARSHA MESSAGES PARSHAS ACHAREI - KEDOSHIM A HISTORY OF LOVE Based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe

an, by nature, is a selfish creature. Even the relationship between self and fellow. in his relationships with others he tends In Noah, we find the first stirrings of a departure Each of these individuals was considered to focus primarily on himself or, at most, from self to improve and rehabilitate one’s the most righteous of his generation. Mon his self-colored perception of his fellow. fallen fellow. In the year 1536 from creation Thus, their lives can be seen to reflect four “Love” is the endeavor to transcend this intrinsic (2225 BCE) G-d told Noah that “the end of stages in the spiritual development of selfishness and truly relate to one’s fellow, to be all flesh has come before Me, for the earth humanity—four stages in the movement sensitive to and devoted to his or her needs as is filled with violence,” and that He therefore from an instinctive selfhood toward an individual distinct from oneself and one’s own intends to “bring a deluge of water upon the the complete abnegation of self and stake in the relationship. earth, to destroy all flesh” and start anew self-interest in relating to others. Our with Noah and his family. Noah is instructed And yet, when the Torah speaks of the mitzvah examination of this process will also shed to build an ark so that they could survive the (divine commandment) to “love your fellow as light on the acceptance/nonacceptance Flood. Our sages relate that Noah worked yourself,” it does so in the context of man’s duty dilemma inherent in the love relationship. on the ark’s construction a full one hundred to influence, and even change, the behavior and The first of these four outstanding and twenty years; all this time, he called out nature of his fellow man. In Leviticus 19 (verses individuals was Enoch, a great-great- to his generation to mend its ways and avoid 18–19), the Torah commands: great-great-grandson of Adam, who catastrophe. Do not hate your brother in your heart; repeatedly was born in the year 622 from creation However, the Zohar criticizes Noah for the fact rebuke your fellow, and do not attribute sin to him. (3139 BCE). By his time, humanity had that, despite his efforts, he did not pray for the Do not take revenge, or harbor hatred toward your abandoned the one G-d of their fathers, salvation of his generation, unlike Abraham people, and love your fellow as yourself; I am G-d. and had succumbed to idolatry and pagan and Moses, who pleaded with G-d to spare perversity. Only Enoch still “walked with As the commentaries explain, there are two the wicked. This implies that, ultimately, it did G-d.” possible reactions a person can have toward a not matter to Noah what became of them. fellow who has wronged him, or whom he sees But Enoch’s righteousness was wholly Had he truly cared, he would not have sufficed behaving in a morally deficient manner: 1) he can selfish: he was preoccupied only with with doing his best to bring them to repent, despise him in his heart, regarding him as a “sinner,” the refinement and perfection of his own but would have implored the Almighty to and perhaps even persecute him for his “sins”; 2) spiritual self. The Midrash even relates repeal His decree of destruction—just as one he can rebuke him in an effort to convince him of that for many years he disassociated who is personally threatened would never say, the folly of his ways and seek to influence him to himself from his corrupt generation and “Well, I did my best to save myself” and leave change them. The path of love, says the Torah, is secluded himself in a cave. it at that, but would beseech G-d to help him. not to to “hate your brother in your heart,” but to Not only did Enoch fail to have a lasting In other words, Noah’s involvement with “repeatedly rebuke” him and seek to better him. impact on his society, but he was others was limited to his sense of what Obviously, the desire to influence is consistent with ultimately in danger of being influenced he ought to do for them, as opposed to a the idea of love. No one would stand by as a loved by their corrupt behavior. This is why true concern for their wellbeing. His “self” one suffers hunger or is threatened by violence; Enoch died at the “tender young age” of had sufficiently broadened to include the no less so, if one sees someone he loves suffering 365 (compared with the 800- to 900-year imperative to act for the sake of another, from spiritual malnutrition or moral blindness, lifespans of his contemporaries): “G-d recognizing that the lack of a “social he will make every effort to reach out to him, to took him to Himself” before his time, lest conscience” is a defect in one’s own character; enlighten him, to offer guidance and assistance. the only righteous man of the generation but he fell short of transcending the self to But this aspect of loving behavior carries an also be lost. care for others beyond the consideration of inherent paradox. On the one hand, the endeavor his own righteousness. For such is the relationship of an to influence and change implies a departure from individual with his environment: there is This also explains a curious aspect of Noah’s self and a concern with the wellbeing of the other. no sustained equilibrium. Where there is efforts to reach out to his generation. When On the other hand, it implies a seemingly selfish contact there is a flow, in one direction or the Flood came, Noah and his family entered view of the other: a rejection of the other as he the other; one either influences his society the ark—alone. His 120-year campaign is, and a desire to impose upon him one’s own or is influenced by it. yielded not a single baal teshuvah (repentant)! perception of what is good for him. The 120-Year Failure Perhaps public relations was never Noah’s Four Biblical Prototypes strong point, but how are we to explain the Several generations later, we encounter An exploration of the history of humanity, as fact that, in all this time, he failed to win over a another righteous man in a corrupt recounted in the Torah, reveals four figures who single individual? generation: Noah, builder of the ark and personified four different points of reference on regenerator of humanity after the Flood. But in order to influence others, one’s motives 12 must be pure; in the words of our sages, “When G-d summoned me from the house be or what they are on a deeper, yet unrealized “Words that come from the heart enter the of my father, He was G-d of the heavens but level. He loved them as they were, and did heart.” Deep down, a person will always sense not of the earth: the inhabitants of the earth everything in his power to satisfy their needs, whether you truly have his interests at heart, did not recognize Him, and His name was not both material and spiritual. or whether you’re filling a need of your own referred to in the land. But now that I have When Moses pleaded with G-d on behalf by seeking to change him. If your work to made His name familiar in the mouths of His of the worshippers of the Golden Calf, he enlighten your fellow stems from a desire to creatures, He is G-d in both heaven and earth.” did not say, “Forgive them because they will “do the right thing”—to observe the mitzvot No Strings Attached repent,” or “Forgive them for they carry great to “love your fellow as yourself” and “rebuke But even Abraham’s love is still not the potential,” only, “Forgive them. And if You your fellow”—but without really caring about ultimate. It took another four centuries for the won’t, erase me from Your Torah.” Either You the result, your call will be met with scant epitome of selfless devotion to one’s fellow to accept the sinner as he is, or put together a response. The echo of personal motive, be it emerge, in the person of Moses. nation and a Torah without me. the most laudable of personal motives, will be sensed, if only subconsciously, by the object virtue over Noah was that his objective in The difference between Moses and his of your efforts, and will ultimately put him off. relating to others lay not in realizing the predecessors is also reflected in the extent of potential of his social self (as was the case their influence on their fellows. Enoch, with The Departure from Self with Noah), but in achieving the desired result: his wholly self-directed righteousness, had Ten generations later was born an individual to transform their behavior and character, no influence, and was himself susceptible to who raised the concept of man’s devotion to bringing to light their good and perfect influence. Noah—who extended himself to the welfare of his neighbor to new and selfless essence. But therein also lies the limitation his fellows, but only because he recognized heights. This man was Abraham, the first Jew. of Abraham’s love: ultimately, Abraham’s that concern for one’s fellow is an integral Abraham, too, faced a corrupt and pagan world; kindness had an ulterior motive. True, it was part of a perfect self—was not influenceable, indeed, his title, “the Hebrew,” is associated not a personal motive; true, it was a motive but did not influence. Abraham’s teaching and with the fact that “the entire world stood on that spells the recipient’s ultimate good, and instruction, free of such personal bias, was one side, and he stood on the other.” After is consistent with the recipient’s true self; but embraced by multitudes of followers; but since coming to recognize the Creator, he devoted it was an ulterior motive nonetheless. even Abraham’s efforts fell short of the pure definition of selflessness, his influence was his life to bringing the belief and ethos of a one Our sages describe how Abraham’s hospitality G-d to his generation. Wherever he went, he correspondingly limited. Today, we have no was but a means to achieve his goal of traceable heirs to Abraham’s disciples. (What, “caused G-d’s name to be known in the world.” converting his guests to a belief in G-d. The Abraham also concerned himself with the indeed, ever became of the “souls they had same is true of Abraham’s valiant prayer on made in Charan”?) But the effects of Moses’ more mundane needs of his fellows, offering behalf of the Sodomites. He beseeched G-d his tent as an open house of refreshment and utterly selfless love are eternal: his guidance to spare them because of the righteous in and leadership of his people yielded a nation lodging for all desert wayfarers, regardless of their midst—as long as righteous individuals spiritual station. whose endurance and unbroken continuity, to remain in a city, there is hope for the wicked as this very day, defies all laws of history. The selflessness of Abraham’s concern for well. On a deeper level, he was referring to the his fellow is demonstrated by his daring “righteous one” within the wicked person, his “Outreach” Redefined intervention on behalf of the five sinful cities inner potential for good; spare them, Abraham In order to truly influence a fellow, we must of the Sodom valley. G-d had decided to was saying, because perhaps the good in devote ourselves to him or her without regard destroy these cities for their wicked ways. them will triumph yet. As soon as he became to whether he or she will be influenced or Abraham petitioned G-d on their behalf, aware that the wicked of Sodom were beyond not. He is a fellow human being who needs using the strongest terms to demand of G-d hope, he ceased his prayers. your help. So help him. If she lacks something material, help her. If she is spiritually lost, help that he spare these cities for the sake of the Such love and concern—for the sake of the few righteous individuals they might contain. her. Many can see the point of influencing a potential good that one sees in another—is fellow Jew to do a good deed, a mitzvah— “It behooves You not to do such a thing,” he a love that is tainted, however minutely, with challenged G-d, “to slay the righteous with to put on tefillin, to perform a single act of selfishness: one is relating to one’s fellow not charity, to avoid a moral transgression—if the wicked . . . Shall the judge of the universe as one’s fellow sees himself, but with an eye not act justly?!” Abraham put his own spiritual this leads to a greater involvement, and to one’s own vision of him. This allows for a ultimately, a complete transformation. But integrity at risk for the sake of the most reaction on his part (expressed, unexpressed, corrupt of sinners; he was prepared to incur when confronted with a “lost case,” they feel or even unconscious) that “you don’t care for it’s a waste of time. Why bother? G-d’s wrath upon himself, giving precedence me as I am, only for what you wish to make to their physical lives over his own relationship of me. So you don’t really care about me at Why bother? Because you care about him, with the Almighty. all.” True, one’s only desire is to reveal the not only about what he ought to be, what And because people sensed that he had their other’s essential self; but this is a deeper, still he will be, or what you see in him. He lacks own good—and only their own good—at unrealized, self. One’s love fails to address the something now, and you are privileged to be heart, they responded. When Abraham and other as he now expressly is, focusing instead of assistance. If you care for him because you Sarah left Charan for the Holy Land, they were on one’s knowledge of what he latently is, and expect to influence him, then chances are he joined by the “souls which they had made in on what he can and ought to make of himself. won’t respond. But if you care for him whether he responds or not, then he will respond. Charan”—the community of men and women In contrast, Moses’ love for his people was who had rallied to their cause. Sixty-five years utterly selfless. His was an unconditional love, later, he was able to say to his servant Eliezer: one that is unassuming of what they ought to 13 4 POWERFUL INSIGHTS FROM THE REBBE ON PARSHAS ACHAREI KEDOSHIM

True Love

Parshat Kedoshim contains the command, “Love your fellow man as yourself.”

Seemingly, this is demanding the impossible. We care for others only to the extent that we perceive a common denominator, but that common denominator affects only a limited part of our personalities. It can Withdrawal and Return never penetrate us entirely, for each of us possesses a Our reading begins with the verse: “And the L-rd spoke to Moses, fundamental self-concern; there is no one with whom after the death of the two sons of Aaron, when they drew near we identify as strongly as we identify with ourselves. to the L-rd and they died”. The Midrash, cites the following Thus, as long as we retain our self-concern, there is explanations: They entered the Holy of Holies; they did not wear no way we can love any other person as much as we the priestly garments necessary for their service; they did not love ourselves. have children; and they did not marry. How can we suppose that Aaron’s two sons, Nadav and Avihu, It is possible, however, to redefine our sense of were guilty of sin? The Midrash relates (based on Leviticus 10:3) self. Instead of focusing on our personal “I,” we can that Moses said to Aaron, “Aaron, my brother, I knew that the highlight the G-dly spark we possess, our true and Sanctuary would be sanctified by those who were beloved and most genuine self. And when a person’s G-dly spark close to G-d. Now I see that they — Nadav and Avihu — are comes to the fore, he is able to appreciate that a greater than both of us.” If this was so, how could they have similar spark also burns within the other. He can thus sinned? love another person as himself, because he and the other share a fundamental identity. There is a Chassidic explanation that Aaron’s two sons did not “sin” literally. Their “sin” was to allow their desire to cleave to G-d to mount to such an intensity that they died. Their bodies could By looking beyond one’s selfish and material concerns no longer contain their souls. Thus the Torah says “when they and focusing on the spiritual core that exists within him drew near to the L-rd (with such passion that) they died.” Still this and within every person, a person is able to redefine was counted as a sin, for although a Jew must divest himself of himself. Truly loving another person means focusing material concerns, at the moment when he stands poised at the on the G-dly potential that person possesses. ultimate ecstasy of the soul, he must turn again to the work that the soul must do within a physical existence. Their faults stemmed from a single misconception: that the Jew draws close to G-d by withdrawal instead of involvement. In fact, both are necessary. This lies at the heart of each of the faults which the Midrash ascribes to them. They “entered the Holy of Holies,” the innermost reaches of the spirit, without thinking of their return to the outer world. They “did not wear the (priestly) garments.” Their concern was to divest themselves of the world and to become purely spiritual. They forsook the necessary “garments” in which the word of G-d is clothed, the Mitzvot, the physical actions that sanctify a physical environment. They “had no children” and “did not marry.” They did not fulfill G-d’s command to “be fruitful and multiply” and to bring new souls into the world. They did the opposite. They withdrew their own souls from the world. 14 Permeated With Holiness Kedoshim begins with the command to “be holy,” and continues with a variety of commandments including prohibitions against theft, lying, gossip, intermingling species of animals, eating produce before the plants which bear it mature, and giving the guidelines for marital relations and the foods we eat.

Implied is that the holiness the Torah asks of us is not otherworldly, but instead anchored in the day-to-day routines of life. Judaism does not want us to be angels, but rather holy men and women, people who live in touch with material reality and control their involvement with it, rather than letting it control them.

Within every element of existence, there is a G-dly spark. Being holy means seeking to tap into that G-dly energy instead of becoming involved with the entity’s material A G-dly Vitality nature.

In the portion of Acharei we encounter the verse: We have a natural tendency to polarities: either to seek “Perform My judgments and safeguard My statutes.” gratification through indulgence in material pleasures or “Judgments” translates the Hebrew mishpatim, to renounce them and search for spiritual fulfillment in an referring to those laws whose rationale can be ascetic lifestyle. comprehended by mortal intellect. “Statutes” translates the Hebrew chukim, mitzvot whose In the long run, however, neither of these approaches is rationale transcends our understanding. The linkage satisfactory, not for man, nor for G-d. G-d certainly does not in the verse implies a reciprocal relationship. appreciate material indulgence. And ultimately, man is also Fulfilling the “statutes” refines a person and makes not satisfied with that. Deep inside, man wants something him spiritually sensitive, enabling him to appreciate more from life than having his desires gratified. Eating, the rationale that exists in the “judgments,” those drinking, and other sensual pleasures cannot provide him laws that can be grasped by our minds. Conversely, with the lasting and meaningful satisfaction he is looking for. carrying out the “judgments” strengthens our spiritual potential, giving us inner fortitude so that On the other hand, asceticism is also not an answer. If G-d the observance of the “statutes” will not be an made us with physical bodies and material tendencies, it overwhelming challenge. seems obvious that they are also part of His intent. Our Sages say that He created the world because He desired a dwelling The passage continues: “You shall safeguard My in the lower realms, the material dimension of our existence statutes and decrees and… live in them.” G-dliness is an integral element. G-d invested Himself in the material is the ultimate vitality, true and genuine life. Through realm, infusing sparks of holiness into every material entity. the Torah and its mitzvot, a person connects to G-d What He desires is that we uncover those sparks by using and thereby derives vitality. the material entities for His intent.

A person who derives his vitality from worldly things, looks forward to those moments and focuses his life on them entirely. So too, a person should focus his life on the Torah and its mitzvos. Every moment should be one of anxious expectation, eagerly looking forward to the opportunity to experience the spiritual vitality that the Torah and its mitzvos offer him.

The latter point enables us to understand why this verse was chosen to introduce the passage concerning forbidden intimacy. When a person is able to appreciate the energy and vitality the Torah provides him, he will have an inner source of positive satisfaction and will not be drawn after forbidden indulgence.

15 HALACHA OF THE WEEK BY RABBI DOV SCHOCHET LAWS OF INTEREST n this week’s portion we are once again than the full amount of a debt and like he’s borrowing the seller’s money warned against charging interest cancel out the rest. for that period of time and paying when loaning money to a fellow Jew. interest on the loan. Even when the IThe basic definition of interest from a Real estate: Unlike a laborer, when seller doesn’t mention both prices, just Torah perspective is reward for waiting one obligates themselves to rent out the higher price for paying later, if it is for our money. That is, because I allow property, neither party can renege. clearly inflated from the market price someone else to hold onto my money Therefore, as soon as the Kinyan (act (and only being paid because of the for a period of time, I am rewarded and of acquisition) for the property is made, time granted), it is a Rabbinic violation paid interest, that is I receive back more the full amount is owed to the landlord. of Ribbis laws. than I gave. Therefore, if the landlord agrees to accept less to be paid upfront, it is Prepayment: Just as a seller cannot This raises some interesting questions permitted for the renter is simply charge more for waiting for the money, in some common transactions and discharging a debt he has. In this case, a buyer who prepays for an item can whether they are considered interest the landlord would even be able to at times also violate interest laws. or not. It is common for schools to say if you pay in full now, I will charge If a buyer prepays for an object and advertise two prices, one for people you $100 for the year and if you pay receives a better price, that is interest. who pay upfront and another for those monthly it is $10 a month. Though Essentially the buyer is lending money that pay overtime. The same happens in this clearly seems like interest for he to the seller, and the interest they stores and other areas, is this interest? is saving $20 by prepayment, it is still are receiving is the better price. This Is the person paying upfront “lending” permitted for the obligation to pay is is only if the seller does not have the money to the institution and getting only at the end of the rental period, but item available when the prepayment rewarded by receiving a discount? the debt is technically owed as soon as was made. However, if the seller has As we will see the question is highly the contract is signed. Therefore, the the item available when the payment dependent on nuanced Halachic factors payment of $100 is viewed as payment was made it is permitted. A person can which can turn a transaction from being of a debt, not an interest-bearing loan. sell what they have for any discount permitted to forbidden. they choose and being that the seller This is only permitted if this was can give the item immediately it is Laborers: Halacha stipulates that a stipulated before the Kinyan was considered to be a discounted sale and laborer can quit at any time, even made. However, if the original Kinyan not a prepayment. after agreeing to the terms of a job. was to pay $100 upfront and after the Therefore, if a person agrees to a job Kinyan was made the landlord agreed Schools and camps: They would seem and allows the employer to pay less if to accept payment at the end if $120 to be similar to the laborer. Where they are paid upfront, it is a problem of was paid, it is forbidden for there was the obligation of the debt begins as interest. As the laborer has the right to a clear obligation to pay at the outset, soon as the school year begins and quit even before starting the job, the and because the renter is being granted the obligation to pay it is by the end of money being paid cannot be considered extra time, he is paying a premium, that the year/summer. Therefore, it would a debt. is considered an interest payment. be permissible to have an early bird discount, for it is not loaning the school Rather it is a loan the potential employer Regular item: If the seller says the item money for a discount, but payment of a is giving, and in return he is receiving if paid now is $10 but if paid at the end debt already owed at a discounted rate. the labor at a reduced rate. This is only of the month it’s $11, it is forbidden. Like all areas of the Torah, this teaches if the money is paid before the first Unlike real estate where the renter we should never assume what is day on the job. Once the laborer begins is only obligated to pay at the end of permitted. What can seem like a regular their terms of service, we consider the the lease the obligation to pay for an business transaction can at times be a agreed upon amount to be paid a debt item is when the transaction happens. Biblical violation of the laws of Ribbis. that the employer owes the employee. Therefore, whatever the price to be We should always strive to know what Therefore, the money being paid is not paid then is considered the actual price. the Torah guides us to do in every a loan, rather it is payment to a creditor. If the buyer pays more because he is situation. A creditor is permitted to accept less given extra time to pay it is considered 16 SEFIRAS HA’OMER IS G-D MY DOCTOR? unequivocally praises King By Simcha Gottlieb fits in pretty well. We had just witnessed Hezekiah for hiding the Sefer Refuot ten awesome plagues in Egypt—rivers (Book of Remedies), because people here’s a well-known Kabbalistic of blood; frogs and pestilence and teaching that characterizes the had come to rely on medical techniques fiery hail; darkness in daytime and rather than turn to G-d for a cure. The Hebrew month of Iyar as an the slaying of the firstborn—and the Tauspicious time for healing. Numerous Book of Chronicles records that King unimaginable spectacle of the splitting Asa of Judah died from an ailment of reasons are offered to explain this idea, of the sea. Soon we would experience some more mystical than others. the feet because he chose to consult divine revelation at Sinai, and hear the doctors and failed to seek divine mercy. voice of G-d. With all that going on, But an immediate question that what’s a little miraculous faith healing comes to mind in response to this From a Torah perspective, illness is seen among friends? Doesn’t seem too far- as a red flag, a wakeup call. It’s a sign that rather magical notion is: why on earth fetched. should there be an “auspicious time” we have somehow compromised our for healing at all? Whether we view connection to G-d, the source of health But the Torah, we are told, is intended and wellbeing. To heal ourselves, we the practice of medicine as purely a as a practical guide and a teaching function of biological science (as most restore the connection. That may very for all time. In the world we inhabit, well include some logical, common- do in the modern era) or as a traditional miracles are somewhat harder to come body of knowledge based upon an age- sense choices about the ways we eat by than in biblical times. In fact, the and exercise and breathe and behave— old understanding of nature’s ways consensus of rabbinical counsel today (as exemplified by the field of Oriental but not to the exclusion of attending to is that we are not to rely on miracles, the spiritual connection as well. It may medicine, in which I am trained), the that a sick person should consult a treatment of illness is first and foremost also involve consulting a doctor and doctor, that we should avail ourselves receiving medical treatment—on the logical and down-to-earth. Medical of the best of medical care. Doctors professionals and patients alike are understanding that the physician is the are called “physicians,” because a agent of G-d’s healing power. looking for medicine, not mysticism. physical illness calls for a physical What’s Kabbalah doing butting in? cure. And there is a biblical source for It’s not either/or—either G-d as Healer, that as well. One whose negligence or the physician’s “permission” to I’ll soon suggest an answer to that. causes injury is obliged to pay for the But let’s first examine some of the heal. Faith and reason, spirituality and injured party’s losses and medical science, meet in the treatment room. rationales behind this idea that Iyar is a care: “V’rapo yerapei—and he shall healing month. Faith is not blind; it is not irrational. take responsibility for his healing.” The It is the willingness to acknowledge Talmud goes on to say, “From here we In biblical history we find that it was and embrace that which is beyond derive that the physician is permitted our understanding, without having to during the month of Iyar that the to heal.” Children of Israel, newly liberated forfeit our ability to understand. It is the from Egyptian slavery, began eating cultivation of trust in a Higher Power Is there a conflict here? Who is the whose power may not yet be evident to the manna—that magical, fresh-daily, healer, really: G-d or the physician? heavenly health food that healed all our us, while doing everything in our power (Let’s not get into the old gag about the to think well, do well and be well. afflictions and sustained us for forty difference between the Almighty and years in the wilderness. Makes sense, a surgeon: “G-d doesn’t think He’s a more or less: eat well, get well. Those who cultivate such trust are the doctor.”) most likely to experience the positive In a more esoteric vein, the Hebrew effects of medicine. Why do some Our plot thickens when we consider people get better, while others with name of the month itself, spelled aleph, that in Judaism there appears to be, yud, yud, reish, is an acronym for “ani similar illnesses and similar treatment on the one hand, a significant legacy do not? There’s no one simple answer Hashem (represented by two yuds) of practical medical teachings; and rof’echa.” That was G-d’s proclamation to that question, but the latest research on the other hand, a strong tradition into the “placebo effect”—the aspect at the beginning of Iyar, as we made of eschewing medical intervention our way toward Mount Sinai, by which of medical care that creates positive in favor of faith. Many of the great expectations—is demonstrating He announced His healthcare coverage luminaries—Noah, Shem, Moses, King guarantee: “Keep My commandments, scientifically how such factors as faith, Solomon, King Hezekiah, Ibn Ezra, trust, and the quality of the therapeutic and you won’t get sick . . . because I am Maimonides, the Baal Shem Tov, to the L-rd, your healer.” relationship can contribute significantly name just a few throughout history— to a successful cure. The ideal approach were healers, herbalists, physicians or to healthcare combines a trusting, In the context of all the signs and keepers of the healing secrets. Yet the wonders of the biblical narrative, this optimistic attitude with intelligent, 17 responsible medical expertise. LIFE ON THE INSTALLMENT PLAN So what does this have to do with Iyar By Mendy Herson as a month of healing? In the , Iyar follows the month of ears ago, a wise rabbi told me: Nissan—the month of Passover, our miraculous escape from Egyptian “Your character flaws are like your car’s high beam: They can be quite slavery. (Even the name Nissan is Yirritating and will hit the other person squarely in the eye. Conversely, you derived from the word nes, “miracle.”) might very well continue exactly what you’re doing, blissfully ignorant to your There was nothing rational or natural condition, until someone flicks his headlights to alert you to your problem.” about our exodus from Egypt. We As we travel our path to self-betterment, we need an occasional wake-up call. weren’t ready; freedom was not our The startling flash of recognition can obliterate our mental fog, that mindless achievement, but a gift from G-d. living which provides perfect cover for a negative pattern. We fled as though on eagles’ wings, uncertain of where we might touch But the mental clarity itself isn’t change. It’s just the beginning. down. But in the weeks that followed, The key to change lies in proactively tackling life’s details, making better choices in the month of Iyar, we proceeded step in our minutes, hours and days. by step, day by day, on foot, toward Sinai. Still shaking with the awe and In other words, we change behaviors by incrementally changing their expressions. enthusiasm of the miracles of Nissan, Take an example: You’ve come to a sudden awareness: Your family feels that now we needed to make steady you’re distracted and distant when you’re at home. They’re disappointed. progress, under our own steam, in Iyar. With every daily meal of manna, we Wow. You had no idea! But – once it’s been mentioned – you can see what internalized G-d’s healing power and they’re saying. learned to take responsibility for our So you resolve to do better. own growth and our own freedom. At the very end of Iyar we arrived at the If that’s as far as it goes, you haven’t much chance of real change. foot of Mount Sinai, healed from the But what if you ask yourself: How am I going to reframe my mindset when I trauma of Egyptian bondage, ready to leave work, before I come home? How will I disengage from my mind-static and receive and embrace the Torah. be emotionally available for my family? By what method will I observe/evaluate myself? In our modern-day commemoration of these events, we follow up the high- Polishing my life’s details, inch by inch, action by action, day by day, adds up to flying celebration of the Passover a brilliant existence. miracles in Nissan with the daily, Taking a step back, we can see this in the rhythm of our history. G-d gave the disciplined mitzvah of counting the Jews a cosmic wake-up call when he took them out of Egypt. He showed them Omer throughout Iyar. The Kabbalistic that they needed to rise above their slave mentality, their spiritual paralysis. significance of these days of counting involves the step-by-step rectification Once liberated, they began a seven-week journey toward Sinai. of our character traits. Inspired and Torah thought presents an analysis of the human’s “life tools” and sees them energized by the sudden freedom as falling into seven different categories. So the Jews used each week of their bestowed upon us at Passover, in journey to refine a different (primary) dimension of life. Iyar we learn to internalize and apply the divine power by taking personal But counting – i.e., exercising – the weeks wasn’t enough. They needed to count responsibility for getting better every each individual day. day. The path to self-improvement took forty-nine incremental steps.

Now we can see why Iyar is considered, Similarly, we all need to transcend our personal “Egypts,” the counterproductive in the Kabbalah, such an auspicious time patterns in our lives. for healing: it is the meeting place of That’s an important realization; but it’s not enough. the miraculous healing hand of G-d (ani Hashem rof’echa) and a human being’s We need the resolve to tackle our issues; but it’s not enough. everyday practical commitment to It’s the grunt work, the day-by-day attention to life’s details, which will get us personal improvement (v’rapo yerapei). where we need to go. Each day of the month of Iyar we take another step on the road to revelation Day by day, bit by bit, we can make change happen. at Sinai, where heaven descends down to earth, and earthly beings learn to rise above their pain. Man and his Maker: what a healing team!

18 PIRKEI AVOS CHAPTER 3 ON THE ESSENCE OF EAT

By Yanki Tauber

abbi Shimon would say ... Three who eat at one table and speak words of Torah, it is as if they had Reaten at G-d’s table.

Ethics of the Fathers, 3:3

On the surface, Rabbi Shimon’s message is simple and straightforward: utilize your mealtimes to share the wisdom of Torah. This way, the station they could never attain on their mundane activity of eating becomes a It is man to whom the Torah, which own. They become an integral part of lofty and G-dly endeavor. outlines this design, has been given, and it is man who has been granted the a conscious, willful being who elects to serve the Almighty. The meat of the But surely the same applies to a single franchise and the tools to implement it. beast, the grain in the bread, the water diner or to many who eat scattered that quenches our thirst, these become about the room. Why “three who eat”? So the soul of man descends into the the essence of an act of charity, an hour And why specifically when they eat at trials and trappings of physical life in expended in the study of G-d’s wisdom, “one table”? On a deeper level, Rabbi order to gain access to these “sparks a feeling of love for G-d in prayer. Shimon conveys the true significance of holiness”: By investing itself within of our need for food. a physical body which will eat, clothe itself, and otherwise make use of the In this way, Rabbi DovBer of Mezeritch explained the verse: “The hungry and Hunger In Two Dimensions objects and forces of the physical thirsty, in them does their soul wrap The human being consists of two universe, the soul redeems the “sparks” itself.” A person desiring food may primary components: the physical that they incorporate. For when man sense only his body’s hunger; but, body and the soul that gives it life utilizes something, directly or indirectly, in truth, his physical craving is the and direction. The same is true of to serve G-d’s will, he penetrates external expression of a deeper yen. every created thing: its physicality and its shell of mundanity, revealing and “Wrapped within” is his soul’s hunger substance is but its outer husk. Within realizing its function within the essence for the sparks of holiness that are the is a ``soul,’’ an inner, spiritual essence and purpose of existence. object of his mission in life. and significance. This explains a most puzzling fact of Three At One Ultimately, the soul of the entire life: Why is it that man derives life and When a person sits to eat there are universe is one: the drive to fulfill its sustenance from the animal, vegetable, three partners to the endeavor: his Creator’s will. At creation, this unified and mineral worlds? How is it that the body, his soul, and the food—the vital “soul” splintered into a myriad of highest form of life is dependent upon glue that keeps body and soul together individual “sparks” that now form the these lower tiers of creation? as a living organism. core of every created thing. But in truth, man’s need of the nutrients But if his eating is dominated by the But unlike the human soul, who that his environment provides him (and perspective of Torah, these “three who exercises will and choice, all other the many other material resources eat” do so at a single table. Their eating creatures are passive containers of that sustain and enhance his life) is is an act of unification, a revelation of their purpose and utility. They depend the manner in which these elements the underlying oneness of creation and upon man, the crown and apex of G-d’s reach fulfillment. When man makes its connection to the One Creator. creation, to develop and utilize them in positive use of the energy he derives accordance with the Creator’s design. from them, they become elevated to a 19 STORIES WITH SOUL

lthough the farmer, Yankel, the townspeople had gathered at forgot to wash his hands before was as wise as could be in the a festive banquet in honor of their partaking of bread. Something was ways of farming, in the vast distinguished guest, a wild-looking very wrong. Asea of Torah, he could not swim a young man entered the hall. His stroke. For his sons, however, he manners were most uncouth, and They left for Mezibuzh and told the wanted better. He sent them to he ran in and out just as quickly. Besht what had transpired that a nearby town which had a good This very youth was the one whom week. “Let me explain,” he said. “You cheder and yeshiva and the two the Besht had been seeking, and see, there are celestial matchmakers boys learned assiduously until they although the two sons of the farmer as well as their earthly counterparts. became known as the brightest Yankel couldn’t understand what he It was determined in Heaven that students of the school. could have possibly wanted with Shmerel was to be your sisters such a character, they duly informed husband, but it was a difficult match One day they happened to hear the him that they had found the boy. to arrange. How would a girl from a Baal Shem Tov speak and from that wealthy family with such scholarly time they became great adherents The Besht was delighted and gave brothers agree to marry a man like of his and went to Mezibuzh instruction that the boy be cleaned Shmerel? At first it was thought to whenever they could steal away. up and dressed properly and then make her deranged, but with her Their father couldn’t understand brought before him. Shmerel was family fortune, she would still be what they found so interesting given the place of honor next to the able to make a good match in spite there. “We want to hear the words Baal Shem Tov, and during the meal of the illness. Then it was suggested of the famous Baal Shem Tov,” they the Besht passed his handkerchief that the girl be deranged and her would reply. over the boy’s face and commanded, father die. It was then that I made “Give us a Torah discourse!” To the my suggestion. I would take it upon Once Yankel’s curiosity was so great shock of all present, Shmerel began myself to assure that the match be that he decided to visit Mezibuzh speaking and he expounded gems made. The only way to achieve my himself. When he arrived, he of Torah for the next few hours. The goal was to open the young man’s quizzed the tzadik on his knowledge two brothers were very pleased mind to Torah wisdom, and in that of farming, and when he seemed to with what they saw and heard and way, endear him to you. know all the correct answers, the they set off for home with the yokel farmer was satisfied that the Besht in tow. “If only Shmerel had been worthy was, indeed, a wise man. Over the of the knowledge, it would have course of time, Yankel also became The wedding was held immediately remained with him forever, but a great admirer of the Baal Shem and throughout the entire week of alas, he was not. The Torah I put Tov and he traveled to Mezibuzh to celebration, the groom delivered into him lasted only the seven days seek advice. marvelously impressive Torah of blessing the marriage, then it discourses to the assembled guests. was lost. But there is nothing to When years had passed and The brothers couldn’t wait until the be done about it, for Shmerel is the Yankel’s daughter reached days of rejoicing were over and they the mate who was destined for marriageable age, he decided to could sit together with him and learn her from Above. Tell your sister to consult the Besht about finding an from his seemingly inexhaustible remain married to him and I will appropriate mate. “Send your sons fountain of wisdom. However, they guarantee her fine children. As for to me and I will send them home were to be profoundly disappointed. you, continue to teach him and he with the proper husband for your will slowly improve and learn.” daughter,” the Besht advised the The first week, when he failed to him. show up in the study hall, their This story was often related by the sister replied only, “My husband is Apta Rav, who would then add, that The two sons arrived and traveled sleeping,” or “My husband is very the descendants of this match are with the Besht to a distant town tired.” The brothers then began to among his closest disciples. where the tzadik made inquiries observe him closely and found that about a certain young man named he didn’t observe even the most Shmerel. They remained in the town basic Jewish laws and customs. for several weeks, but the youth, They had to remind him to make a Shmerel, was nowhere to be found. blessing when he ate, and he always On the eve of the new month, when 20 PESACH SHEINI 10 FACTS ABOUT PESACH SHEINI EVERY JEW NEEDS TO KNOW

1. Pesach Sheni Means “Second the lamb of the Second Passover was 8. It Is an Independent Holiday Passover [Sacrifice]” to be roasted over fire and eaten on Although it is called the Second In Temple times, Jews spent Passover the eve of the 15th, together with Passover, Pesach Sheni is actually a in Jerusalem. On the afternoon before matzah (unleavened bread) and distinct sacrifice in its own right. This the holiday, they sacrificed a lamb or (bitter herbs). The other and plays out in a fascinating law:6 kid, referred to as the Korban Pesach rituals of the Seder, however, were not observed. If a person converts to Judaism (or a () to eat during their minor who was not part of a that evening. If someone was 5. It Could Be Eaten With offering and then becomes bar/bat unable to participate in the Passover in the Home mitzvah) during the month between offering at the proper time, they would The Second Passover only concerned the first and second , he or offer the sacrifice a month later. the sacrificing of the Paschal Lamb. she must bring the sacrifice on Pesach There was no obligation, however, Sheni. If Pesach Sheni were only a 2. It Was Initiated by the People to purge one’s home from chametz. catch-up for those who missed the One year after , the People Another difference between the first round, why would the convert of Israel celebrated their first Passover two Passovers was that Psalms of need to bring the sacrifice? They lacked as free people. Some, however, had Praise () were said during the nothing, since they were not Jewish at become ritually impure through consumption of the first Passover the time. Rather, Pesach Sheni is an contact with a dead body, and could offering (as we do today during the independent mitzvah—an opportunity not, therefore, prepare the Passover Seder) but not while eating the lamb on for growth and improvement. offering on that day. They complained Pesach Sheni. to Moses and Aaron, “Why should we 9. It Was Once Called “Minor be deprived, and not be able to present 6. The Second Passover Was Even Passover” G-d’s offering in its time, amongst the for Willful Offenders This date is universally referred to as children of Israel?” The Torah states that the Second Pesach Sheni. In the , however, Passover was principally for those it is referred to as Pesach Katan (“Minor In response to their plea, G-d who had been impure or distant Passover”). established the “Second Passover” from Jerusalem (15 mil away) on the (Pesach Sheni) for anyone who was morning of Nisan 14. But anyone else 10. The Lesson: It’s Never Too Late unable to bring the offering at its who neglected to bring the sacrifice the Pesach Sheni is an extraordinary appointed time. first time around could make amends mitzvah. G-d legislated it only after a group of Jews, impure ones at that, 3. It Is Observed on 14 Iyar on Pesach Sheni, even those who did not have a good excuse. sincerely demanded a second chance. The second Passover sacrifice was The lesson for us is clear: No matter offered on Iyar 14, exactly a month 7. Today We Eat Matzah how far we may wander, or how impure after the rest of the Jewish people In our post-Temple reality, there is no we may become, G-d will pave the way had sacrificed their Paschal lambs Passover sacrifice, and, until Moshiach for us if we sincerely want to make in Jerusalem. Though Iyar 14 did not comes, Pesach Sheni has lost its amends. have the status of a festival or holiday, primary function. Nevertheless, Jews we commemorate the offering on the around the world still celebrate this In the same way, says the Rebbe, we same day that it was sacrificed, not on meaningful day by eating some matzah must cry, plead, and even demand the evening after, when it was actually (but not bitter herbs). that G-d bring Moshiach and the Final eaten, which would be Iyar 15. Redemption. Just like the impure Jews Pesach Sheni is also marked by the of old were not afraid to ask for the 4. The Second Passover Was Eaten omission of Tachnun (prayers of opportunity to become closer to G-d, With Matzah and Bitter Herbs penitence) from the day’s service. neither should we. Like the primary Passover offering, 21 RECENTLY IN THE NEWS 9 THINGS CORONAVIRUS HAS TAUGHT US (SO FAR)

nature of this new disease, but it is 6. Prioritizing Essentials clear that it spreads through close Amazon announced that it will prioritize contact. We must not forget that love delivering “essential” household items also spreads person-to-person (even because of high demand. Regardless of at a six foot distance). King Solomon how you define essential, the outbreak spoke of the impact we can have has led us to reevaluate our priorities. on one another: “As in water, face Way before bestselling author Stephen answers to face, so is the heart of a Covey made the idea famous, Moses man to a man.” told livestock owners, “Make the main thing the main thing and what is 3. Finding Comfort in Prayer secondary, secondary.” Efforts to halt the spread of the disease have cast us into uncharted 7. Focusing Inward waters. Newly imposed restrictions, With many of us stuck at home (alone or economic devastation, and the with loved ones), we have temporarily fear of being infected have left us lost the identities we assume in the By Yehuda L. Ceitlin anxious and uncertain. But, as Swiss outside world. We don’t have the philosopher Henri Frederic Amiel commute or the office to define the he COVID-19 virus that began put it, “Uncertainty is the refuge of pattern of our day. The pandemic has as a localized outbreak in central hope.” In prayer, we have the ability given us space and time to connect China has quickly become a to connect to the Supreme Being in with who we are. On the Jewish day Tglobal pandemic, bringing the world Whom we find comfort and solace, of rest, Shabbat, we unplug and focus to a standstill and redefining “normal” strengthening our hope and resolve. on ourselves and those we care about. life. Prayer affirms that the Creator is During this pandemic, we do more of present, all-seeing and cares for that during the week as well. Rabbi Yisroel Baal Shem Tov, the each of us. founder of Chassidism, taught that 8. The Sanctity of Life every occurrence in the universe 4. Valuing Freedom Throughout history, our synagogue — even a negative one — can and Being restricted and isolated doors have been kept open against should provide us with productive presents a unique set of challenges, forces of antisemitism and through lessons. but it also reminds us of the gift of many challenges. Now, those doors freedom. In fact, on the festival of are closed to save lives. The Torah As we continue to follow health Passover we are instructed that, “In instructs, “You shall keep My statutes guidelines and pray for the recovery each and every generation, a person and My ordinances, which a person of those infected, here are some is obligated to see himself as if he left shall do and live by them.” Rabbi Shimon encouraging things we’ve learned Egypt.” Freedom as a state of mind is ben Menasya interprets this mandate from this global crisis: to be pursued regularly, wherever we to mean, “In all circumstances, one find ourselves. must take care not to die as a result of 1. Our Shared Humanity fulfilling the mitzvot.” The sanctity of The virus is blind to cultural and 5. Not Being Wasteful life is paramount. ideological differences, infecting As fear has taken its toll, many people of all races, religions, and people have flocked to stores and 9. The Preciousness of Every ages. In many ways, the world has emptied shelves into their shopping Moment become more united, sharing the carts. That fear is also a wonderful The heartbreaking (growing) death same vulnerability. Our sages say reminder to appreciate the food we toll of the virus reminds us of our that this actually happens once a have and constrain waste so that mortality. As King David said, “Man is year on Rosh Hashanah, when “all we — and those who live in the like a breath; his days are like a passing the people of the world” pass before world around us — have resources shadow.” Just as the shadow quickly G-d in judgment. It reminds us that for another day. Jewish law teaches fades, so do our lives. We are reminded despite our differences, we are one the biblical instruction, “You shall not to cherish our moments and to infuse humanity under G-d. destroy.” This proscription applies to them with meaning and purpose. food as well; if there’s something left 2. The Power of Caring over, we try to repurpose it. Scientists are still examining the

22 THE CHINESE GIRL WHO BECAME JEWISH

orn in North-East China, Elisheva Martinetti took a long road to convert to Judaism. “With G-d’s Bhelp, and my mother’s incredible sacrifice, the impossible dream came true in the most beautiful way,” she says.

Elisheva Martinetti was born in North-East China. She was educated in Kesser Torah College in Sydney, Australia. After high school, she went on to study in Beis Chana Seminary in Tzfas before becoming a teacher at Lubavitch Senior Girls’ School in London, UK. She currently lives with her husband Dovid and daughter Chana in Stamford Hill, London.

She shared her story with Chabad. org:

The Alter Rebbe wrote in Tanya that like a full-fledged Jewess. This indeed on par with that of Great Britain since it is the obligation of every single Jew was an impossible dream if I stayed it was once a colony of the British to re-experience the Exodus from in China. empire.) Egypt every day. For me, this takes on an additional meaning. It meant My mother and I needed to choose We weren’t sure what would happen physically leaving my homeland, my first destination. It needed to be after this one year, but my mother a modern-day Egypt ruled by a a country that would open its doors told me that we needed to take the modern-day “Pharaoh.” It also meant to a 15-year-old Chinese-born girl. plunge and then, like the Jewish leaving my personal, spiritual Egypt, Through Divine Providence, we people leaving Egypt, G-d would my mindset, as well as my naturally discovered that Singapore was a surely split the Red Sea for us and introverted nature. perfect starting point. Not too far guide us where to go next. from China, it is a country heavily With G-d’s help, and my mother’s influenced by Chinese culture, yet it This is how I landed in Changi Airport, incredible sacrifice and staunch has a Western outlook and system. Singapore, on March 9, 2009. support, the impossible dream came The best part is that it had an true in the most beautiful way. established Jewish community. My mother came along to help me settle in, but visa limitations meant My mother came across stories from As soon as my mother decided that she could only stay for five days. On the Talmud and Midrashim (ancient this was the right direction, she sold the last day, we parted ways at the commentaries and interpretation our house and made every effort train station inside the airport. on part of the Hebrew scriptures, humanly possible to acquire an attached to biblical text), and felt exit visa for me to go to Singapore, I remember sitting on the train, an instant pull, to the extent that with the intention of me getting looking out the window, watching she was certain that she must have closer to a “real” Jewish community, my mother wave with a big smile possessed a Jewish soul. From then to learn more about G-d and His on her face, her eyes full of love on, she would inspire me in whatever commandments. and encouragement. I held back my way possible to be more excited tears thinking that I would show her about Judaism. Chachmat nashim The only possible way to get me to how strong and determined I was. banta beita—“the wisdom of the Singapore was for me to become My throat was getting drier by the woman builds her home.” True to an exchange student. With my minute, and I silently prayed for the these words, my mother kindled the student visa, I was allowed to stay in train to leave quickly so I could let fire within my soul. Singapore for one year until I passed my guard down. As soon as it pulled my GCSE exam. (This is similar to a away, my mother’s image became I became increasingly thirsty for more British high school entrance exam; gradually blurry, my eyes flooded Jewish knowledge; I wanted to live the education system in Singapore is with tears. I knew I might never see 23 her again.

My mother understood this as her Akeidat Yitzchak; she was willing to sacrifice her own needs for her child. I thought this was my Lech Lecha, just like our first patriarch, Abraham, I was called by G-d, Himself, to “Go forth from your land and from your birthplace and from your father’s house, to the land that I will show you.”

Joining the community was not an easy feat, both because of the cautious approach of the Chabad emissary and my introverted nature. I was prepared to give up everything I had, but my biggest worry was that must be how the Jews felt in the explaining my circumstance. I got the community might justifiably look replies from Beth Rivkah girls’ school at me as someone who came to take desert after receiving the manna everyday from heaven. I was beyond in Melbourne and Kesser Torah advantage of them since I was a lone, College in Sydney. Thanks to the young girl, with no family or relatives. emotional. I felt G-d’s guiding hand leading me to His chosen nation. Lubavitcher Rebbe’s broad vision and his emissaries, both schools were I tried to stay low-profile. All I wanted I was given a syllabus to learn in order happy to help me. Following Rabbi was to learn more about Judaism and Abergel’s advice, I arrived in Sydney, be recognized as a “real” Jew. The to complete my conversion study, but I was determined to learn far more completed the process of conversion, more I learned about keeping the and joined Kesser Torah College with holy Shabbos, the more desperate I than what the syllabus covered. I wanted to be the best Jew I could be! Rabbi Gutnick’s help and guidance all felt to be able to keep it the way Jews along the way. were commanded. Lighting Shabbos I taught myself to read Hebrew and candles 18 minutes before sunset After I graduated from Kesser Torah was the most precious experience pray from a , a prayer book. While standing in the women’s College, I was accepted into Beis I could have dreamed of, but not Chana Seminary in Tzfas in the Holy wanting to bother other congregants section, I would try to pray with a minyan, a public prayer quorum of Land of Israel, where I studied for an and feeling extremely shy, I always additional two years before coming watched other women from an 10 Jewish men, whenever possible. At the time, I thought that was the to London to teach in the Lubavitcher invisible corner, waiting to light my Girls’ school. I was also fortunate own after they had finished. most praiseworthy way to “speak” to G-d, and I didn’t know women were enough to have studied for one year not obligated to pray with a minyan. at Merkos Women in Melbourne Initially, I was unable to join Australia. community meals on Shabbos. I I took off school to celebrate Pesach, spent Friday nights and Shabbos Shavuos and Sukkos. My education process was not easy because in Today, thank G-d, I am happily days reading and learning in the married to a most incredible person, synagogue’s study hall, which also addition to learning and grammar, I also had to master and we have a beautiful daughter. At served as a small library in the my wedding, my mother and I were community center. I would tell G-d some English, the language in which many books on Judaism are written. reunited after 10 years of separation. that though the commandment of She came to visit again when my Shabbos was to eat extra delicacies, daughter was born six months ago. for me it would be to fast, rather than Every day, I picked up more practices eat any of the nonkosher food in the as I learned more Jewish laws. I remember the excitement I felt when My journey is a journey of miracles, dormitory. I was too shy to ask for Divine Providence and sacrifices. I owe food. I ate my first matzah, and when I said the whole Shmoneh Esrei prayer for many thanks to the Rebbe’s shluchim around the world, and the many Eventually, after Rabbi Mordechai the first time entirely in Hebrew. It took me nearly an hour to finish, but incredible families and communities Abergel, a Chabad rabbi in Singapore who are so warm, welcoming and full connected me with Rabbi Moshe I felt that I was doing something for G-d. of boundless kindness. There is no Gutnick from the Sydney Rabbinical one like you, Am Yisrael! Court who specialized in conversions, I was allowed to participate in the After a while, I wanted to learn in a community meals. I thought, this Jewish girls’ high school. I emailed many schools across the globe 24 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

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SPRING VEGETABLE RISOTTO CHOPPED PREPARATION By: Jaime Geller In a small saucepan, bring stock to a simmer and keep warm over low heat. INGREDIENTS 4 cup vegetable stock In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. 3 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil, such as Colavita Add onions, garlic, and carrots and sauté 5 to 8 minutes or until softened. 1 medium onion, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced Add rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring to coat 6 smal carrots, peeled and diced with oil. Add 1 cup of stock and stir constantly until 2 cup Arborio rice nearly all the liquid is absorbed. 1 cup frozen peas, defrosted Add remaining stock, ½ cup at a time, stirring 1 cup asparagus, tips removed, stems peeled and constantly until each portion is absorbed and rice cut into this slices on the bias is tender. 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more for Add peas and asparagus and cook 5 minutes or garnish until vegetables are tender. 6 ounce crumbled goat cheese Remove the rice from heat and stir in cheese, salt 1 tablespoon kosher salt and pepper. Garnish with more parmesan if desired. Freshly ground black pepper

25 FRENCH CONNECTION REFLEXIONS SUR LA PARACHA Vivre avec la paracha Comment donner de bons « Vends ton champ et achète-toi un conseils? âne. » Ce n’est pas nécessairement un par Rochel Holzkenner mauvais conseil en soi. Dans certains cas, un âne peut être plus précieux n médecin et un avocat se qu’un champ, il travaille dur, produit des trouvaient à un cocktail lorsque descendants et est mobile. Cela pourrait le médecin fut approché par un être une bonne idée d’échanger le vieux Uhomme qui lui demanda des conseils sur champ pour un âne robuste. Mais ce qui la façon de traiter son ulcère. Le médecin est problématique dans ce conseil en murmura quelques conseils médicaux, est l’intention cachée. C’est un conseil puis se tourna vers l’avocat et remarqua malhonnête parce qu’il incorpore en lui : « Je ne sais jamais comment gérer la les intérêts du conseilleur : cet homme situation quand on me demande un avis veut ce champ. médical au cours d’une réception. Peut- on envoyer une facture pour de tels La Torah n’est pas en train de nous dire conseils ? » L’avocat répondit que c’était ici que nous ne devons faire du mal à tout à fait acceptable de le faire. personne, c’est une évidence ! Elle n’est même pas en train de nous dire que Le lendemain, le médecin reçut nous ne devons pas donner de mauvais une facture de l’avocat : 200 $ pour énoncé dans la Torah dans le plus grand conseils. L’exemple de l’âne et du terrain consultation juridique. détail ; à ce stade du texte, il est évident semble tout à fait anodin. Et Rachi que D.ieu nous a déjà interdit de faire choisit cet exemple, car il est difficile de « Devant l’aveugle, ne place pas du tort à ceux qui sont en situation de discerner si le conseil est bon ou non. d’obstacle » – Lévitique 19,14. faiblesse. En fait, nous ne devons pas Mais ce qui est facile à discerner, c’est non plus causer du tort aux personnes qu’il est bon pour le conseilleur. Quelles sont les implications dans la vie qui ne sont pas désavantagées, et nous quotidienne de cette mise en garde de devons rembourser tous dommages Donc, ce que la Torah nous dit réellement la Torah concernant la sensibilité envers causés, même s’ils l’ont été sans le ici, c’est : Quand vous donnez des un aveugle ? vouloir. conseils à quelqu’un, ne laissez pas vos intérêts personnels s’en mêler. Même si En voici quelques-unes qui viennent Ainsi, Rachi veut savoir quelle est la vous n’abusez pas de l’autre personne immédiatement à mon esprit : nouvelle mitsva que D.ieu nous enseigne à travers vos conseils. Même si vos ici. conseils peuvent lui être bénéfiques, Ne pas faire de discrimination envers les si cela va vous profiter, c’est un conseil personnes handicapées. Il cite le Talmud : douteux.

Ne pas abuser des gens quand ils sont À quelqu’un qui est aveugle dans un Il est naturel, en considérant une vulnérables. sujet donné, ne donne pas un conseil qui situation, de voir de quelle manière elle ne convient pas pour lui. Ne lui dis pas « peut nous profiter. Mais D.ieu dit que ce Ne pas boire de l’alcool devant un Vends ton champ et achète-toi un âne n’est pas être un mentch que d’agir ainsi. alcoolique en désintoxication. » pour le duper et faire main basse sur Ce n’est pas une façon authentique de son champ. communiquer. « Tu aimeras ton prochain Assumer la responsabilité du bien-être comme toi-même ! » Quand celui-ci spirituel des autres et ne pas les tenter Ce que dit la Torah, c’est : « Ne donne vous demande votre avis, mettez-vous au péché. pas de conseils malhonnêtes ». Il ne à sa place, impliquez-vous sincèrement s’agit pas nécessairement de mauvais dans son dilemme, comme s’il s’agissait Rachi, le plus important commentateur conseils, mais de conseils malhonnêtes. du vôtre. C’est seulement alors que vous de la Torah, dit que je me trompe sur pourrez donner un bon conseil. le sens de ce verset. La responsabilité Considérons l’exemple du Talmud : de nos actes est un sujet qui a déjà été 26 LATIN LINK REFLEXION SEMANAL Parasha de la Semana El Quinto Año árboles frutales mencionados en el Por Yanki Tauber capítulo 19, Parshat Kedoshim de Levítico. Allí Di-s ordena a Moshé que n chiste popular israelí dice que la fruta de los primeros tres años de hay tres maneras de hacer algo: un árbol recientemente plantado está la manera correcta, la manera prohibida para el consumo; que el cuarto Uincorrecta y la manera judía... año debe llevarse la fruta a la ciudad santa de Jerusalém y debe comerse allí De hecho, una lectura cuidadosa de la bajo las condiciones de pureza ritual; y Torá muestra que todo en el mundo que al principio del quinto año, la fruta parece pertenecer a una de estos tres es nuestra para hacer con ella lo que dominios: el bueno, el malo, y un tercer queramos: envolverlas para un picnic, reino que es más difícil de definir. En venderlas en el mercado, abrir una Halajá (la ley de Torá) se llama “el fábrica de puré de manzana— depende optativo” (reshut); Cábala y Jasidut lo de nosotros. definen como “la cáscara translúcida” (klipá nogá) o simplemente, “el Lo extraño aquí es el orden. Uno indefinido”. Básicamente, en esta pensaría que la sucesión apropiada tercera categoría una cosa no es lo que sería de abajo hacia arriba: prohibido, es, sino lo que se hace de ella. Algo optativo, santo. En cambio, nosotros puede elevarse al reino de lo sagrado ingerencia en la naturaleza del acto. vamos de un extremo al otro, y luego o arrastrarse al reino de lo profano— La única cosa que decidimos es lo que terminamos en el medio. dependiendo de lo que usted haga con nosotros haremos. ¿Haremos la mitzvá eso, para lo que lo use, incluso lo que o permitiremos que la oportunidad de En verdad, el quinto año es el más piense mientras esté involucrado con traer divinidad al mundo se pierda? alto de todos. Aquí, en el dominio de eso. ¿Crearemos un vacío en nuestras almas lo optativo, es donde el aspecto más transgrediendo el precepto divino, significativo de la vida está presente. Por ejemplo: una actividad humana o fortaleceremos nuestro carácter Aquí nosotros no sólo determinamos común es comer. Comer matzá en y daremos el placer al Omnipotente lo que haremos, sino también lo que Pesaj o hacer kidush sobre el vino en resistiéndonos a la tentación? Una significará si lo hacemos. Tenemos Shabat es una mitzvá, un acto Divino. mitzvá es una mitzvá sin importar si delante nuestro la arcilla de la creación Para un judío comer carne de cerdo o la hacemos o no, y la trasgresión es un en bruto, el Creador está de pie y espera un plato que contenga al mismo tiempo hecho negativo sucumbamos o no a ver lo que haremos de él. carne y la leche es una aveirá, una ella. Nuestras acciones tienen un efecto trasgresión del deseo Divino. Y luego profundo en nuestro propio ser interior viene un tercero, un dominio “neutral”: y en el estado de la creación, pero no su almuerzo común, en un martes definen la naturaleza del hecho. Las común. O tome otra actividad humana reglas existen independientemente común—una transacción financiera: de nosotros—la única opción real que dar caridad es una mitzvá, robar es un tenemos es ajustarse a ellas o rebelarse pecado, y luego existen las compras, contra ellas. Clases y Eventos ventas, préstamos, entre otras. Otro Clases en Espanol ejemplo, hablar: palabras de estudio Pero Di-s no creó el ser humano Porcion Semanal de Torá y la plegaria son sagradas, simplemente para que tenga un rol Rabbi Shea Rubinstein mientras que el chisme o la mentira se en un plan cósmico preestablecido. Él Lunes 8:45 pm - 9:45 pm prohíben, y luego están todo lo que hay ya tiene bastantes jugadores pasivos Tanya( Women) en el medio que no es lo uno ni lo otro. en su universo—los átomos, árboles, Mrs. Vivian Perez vacas, planetas y ángeles. Di-s creó al Martes 10:45 am - 12:00pm De acuerdo a los maestros jasídicos, hombre porque Él deseó tener lo que el 198 Park Drive, Bal Harbour Village este “lo uno ni lo otro” es el componente Talmud llama “un socio en la creación”- Jueves 11:00 - 12:00 más importante de nuestra misión en -alguien que escribiría las reglas y Call Vivian for details - 305.213.3202 la vida. trazaría el plano junto con Él. Analisis de distintos temas basados en la Perasha Rabbi Shlomi Halsband En ambos reinos de lo santo y lo Esto, dice el Rebe de Lubavitch, explica Miercoles 8:30 - 10:00 pm profano, nosotros no tenemos ninguna algo curioso sobre las leyes de los Domingo 8:30 - 10:00 pm 27 NUMBERS TO KNOW

CONTACTS AT THE SHUL 305.868.1411 Rabbi Rabbi Sholom Lipskar Ext 311 Associate Rabbi Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Ext 345 Rabbi’s Executive Assistant / CYS Ms. Lydia Hasson Ext 311 Rebbetzin Rebbetzin Chani Lipskar 305.992.8363 JLAC / Adult Ed/ Singles Rabbi Shea Rubinstein Ext 342 CYS College / Kolel Rabbi Dov Schochet 305.790.8294 Accounting Mrs. Geri Kelly Ext 341 Controller Mrs. Janice Barney Ext 318 Events / Offce Manager Ms. Milena Liascovitz Ext 328 Director of Events and Marketing Mrs. Devorah Leah Andrusier Ext 313 SHUL GABOIM Youth Director Rabbi Shaykee Farkash Ext 329 Operations / Maintenance Rabbi Shlomi Katan Ext 319 Mr. Andrew Roth Reception Mrs. Mindy Natoli Ext 0 Mr. David Portnoy Mikvah Mrs. Devorah Failer 305.323.2410 Rabbi Henry Eichler Pre-School Director Mrs. Chana Lipskar Ext 325 Mr. Ettai Einhorn Sephardic Minyan 305.868.1411 Mr. David Ben-Arie Hebrew School / Editor Mrs. Aurit Katan 786.382.9006 Mr. Seth Salver Hashkama Minyan Mr. Lazer Milstein 305.349.3040 Mashgiach Mr. Mordechai Olesky 786.262.9115 BOARD OF TRUSTEES Sidney Feltenstein - Chairman Alberto Kamhazi Simon Falic Shmuel Katz M.D. FOUNDATION TRUSTEES Matias Garfunkel Leo Kryss Albert Pollans - President Ambassador Isaac Gilinski Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar Jaime Gilinski Jaime Gilinski Lazer Milstein David Lichter Max Gilinski Michael Perez Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar Saul Gilinski Ryan Shapiro Monroe Milstein - Treasurer Sam Greenberg Claudio Stivelman Abel Holtz Morris Tabacinic BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mike Izak Steven M. Dunn - President Anita Givner Jacob Givner - Vice President Sam Greenwald EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE David Wolf - Vice President Sharon Hakmon Steven M. Dunn - Chair Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar Mitchell Feldman - VP Oversight Albert Lichy Devorah Leah Andrusier Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar - VP Development Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar Janice Barney Lazer Milstein Eric P. Stein - Treasurer Alexander Matz Joel Baum Orit Osman Joel Baum - Financial Treasurer Ezzy Rappaport Maurice Egozi Brian Roller Dovid Duchman - Secretary Elliott Rimon Velvel Freedman - Associate Secretary Yaacov Saidof Henry Eichler Ryan Shapiro Carolyn Baumel Seth Salver Mitchell Feldman Marc Sheridan Max Benoliel Alex Tauber Daniel Gielchinsky Daniel Sragowicz Betzalel Camissar Jacob J. Givner Cynthia Stein Barry Cohen Evelyn Katz Eric P. Stein Boruch Duchman Rebbetzin Chani Lipskar Michael Tabacinic Henry Eichler 28