The Right Regard-Parshas Nasso
One of the many devices Chazal employ to interpret the Torah is the incidence of “Semichus Ha’parshiyos – Juxtaposition of Sections.” The arrangement of the various sections in the Torah is, of course, not haphazard; thus, Chazal derive laws and lessons of great significance by divining why one particular topic is situated next to another. Gifts and Jealousy There are a few prominent examples in this week’s parshah. One of [...]
More Than Just Skin Deep-Parshas Bamidbar
We are surrounded by a society that attaches much importance to externals. The person elected president of the United States is usually a cutting figure, fit and trim-looking, with a full head of hair, perfect teeth, and other such cosmetic qualities. It is hard to imagine someone with an outbreak of acne, for example, ever being able to secure such a position. This is because, as stated, [...]
David and Goliath and the Army of Yisrael-Parshas Bechukosai
When it comes to military battles, conventional wisdom gives the advantage to the side that possesses greater strength and numbers. When Hashem becomes involved, of course, it is another matter entirely; then, these and many other conventional and even physical laws may no longer apply, as we shall see. Unconventional Warfare This very point is made to B’nei Yisrael’s army as it prepares to enter the battlefield. [...]
