The Quill of The Soul

Jewish Valentine's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 31 Jul 2015 02:15:00 -0700

Today is the 15th day of the Hebrew month of "Av", a minor holiday known as Tu b'Av or "Jewish Valentine's Day." This day is so unique, the Talmud describes it like this: 'There were no greater festivals for Israel than the 15th of Av and Yom Kippur. On these days the daughters of Jerusalem would go out... and dance in the vineyards. ' (Taanit 26b) The fact that Yom Kippur is mentioned seems shocking in 2015 when thinking of the average service, but in days of yore the Temple in Jerusalem opn Yom Kippur and its unique service on that day was a sight to behold. But what's so special about Tu B'av?

Here are the 6 of the reasons why we celebrate Tu B'av. But why is this day connected to matchmaking, partnering husband and wife?

Some explain, that unlike other holidays, Tu B'Av is connected to the darkness which precedes it. Six days prior. the holy Temple was destroyed on the 9th day of Av (see my CNN interview here :), a month associated with extreme descent. And we know the famous saying of our Sages: The greater the descent in life, the greater the ascent after. Therefore the reunion represented by Tu B'av after such an incredible descent as the destruction of the holy temple only days beforehand is an incredibly powerful one.

We are also taught that in our lives, marriage isn't just a union between man and woman; it's a reunion. A soul is divided into two halves; one half descends into this world in a male body, the other in a female's body. At some point the joyous reunion of these two estranged halves occurs, when the two finally find each other and reconnect, resulting in intense emotion because it comes from the re-unification of that which was long lost.

On a cosmic level, man and woman are metaphors for G‑d and His people. The soul is one with G-d, essentially of one essence. We too undergo this process of estrangement and reunion as the soul descends to this world to refine and repair it, using a body that doesn't feel a connection to the other half of the soul, G-d. This is a process intended to heighten the love and passion, to bring it to levels unimaginable had we never experienced separation in the first place. The first time our nation was estranged from G‑d was shortly after our betrothal at Mount Sinai when we worshiped a Golden Calf. The reconciliation and redoubled commitment and love occurred on Yom Kippur.

That, however, was a relatively short estrangement. With the destruction of the Temple and the commencement of two millennium of exile, we embarked upon a most painfully long stretch of estrangement. The goal? To ultimately reunite in an amazing reunion with our other half, G-d. The result of this estrangement will be the grandest wedding of all time - the Redemption which will usher in an era of eternal marital bliss. This is what is signified and celebrated on Tu B'av; after the mourning of the temple's destruction, we rebound and see the reason behind the destruction in the first place - the most powerful reconciliation imaginable.

May we always remember in our lives that events of descent will ultimately be followed by an ascent, and that the moments of feeling distant from G-d can always be followed by a much more powerful reunion.

Shabbat Shalom from Tzfat & a happy Tu B'av to you!

The Grasshopper Delusion

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 12 Jun 2015 14:37:00 -0700

A happy summer to all of you! Working with teenagers, I have felt the enthusiasm of summer break in the air, and I want to wish you a summer full of adventure and growth. Many travel in the summer, scouting out new lands, and this week's Torah portion - Shelach - discusses just that: The infamous scouting of the land of Israel by the 12 spies of the Jewish people.

If you've been to Israel before (I'm going for the month of July, so excited!) you've experienced the wide range of beauty and qualities the land of milk & honey has to offer. But instead of focusing on the positive aspects of the land, 10 of the spies (excluding Caleb & Joshua) reported: "We are unable to go up against the people, for they are stronger than we...The land we passed through to explore is a land that consumes its inhabitants, and all the people we saw in it are men of stature. There we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, descended from the giants. We were like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and so we were in their eyes." (Numbers, 13:31-33) Joshua & Caleb, however, reported: "We shall surely ascend and conquer it, we can surely do it!" (Numbers, 13:30)

Were these 12 men looking at the same land? At the same enemy? How could they have perceived the situation in such differing ways!? Significantly, the spies said: "We were like grasshoppers in our own eyes, and so we were in their eyes."

"Whether you think you can, or that you cannot—you are right." - Henry Ford (as much as I dislike quoting him, wisdom can be attained by anybody). The Torah is teaching us that it was because the spies perceived themselves as weak, with no self confidence or trust in G-d, that they therefore perceived their enemies as unbeatable. When one has self esteem and a trust in G-d, there is nothing to fear. Often, when we think others are looking down upon us, it's really just a lack of self worth in our own eyes. Nothing should get in our way if we are aiming to achieve a worthwhile, holy goal.

In life we encounter many tests and obstacles, but the lesson we learn from the story of the spies is that if we approach life's tests with trust in G-d, and in our G-d given abilities, we will succeed. Years later, after the 10 spies had already passed away in the desert, Joshua & Caleb were part of the conquering of the land. It was a self fulfilling prophecy.

May we always have a trust in G-d, perceiving the obstacles in our lives in a positive light, knowing that: "G‑d doesn't ask of us more than what lies in our power to do." (Midrash Tanchuma, Naso 11)

Shabbat Shalom!

Jew Jitsu Challenges

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 13 Mar 2015 16:58:00 -0700

Yesterday morning, I awoke before dawn. Pitch black outside, I left the house without breakfast. My weigh-in weight had to be exact and I couldn't go over. I drove to Irvine and put on my "Gi". I went downstairs to the weigh in area and checked in, surprised to find that I was 4 lbs. under. I nervously stretched and jumped up & down, trying to get loose and warm up. Before I knew it, I was at the scorer's table, getting some last second advice from a friend. "He looks like a wrestler, be ready to sprawl if he charges you." We shook hands and in Portuguese, the referee announced "Combat." The battle was a blur, but in the end, my opponent had my right arm fully extended ready to break. It was time to give up. Live to fight another day.

After the disappointment of losing my 1st Jiu (Jew) Jitsu tournament match began to wear off, I realized some of the lessons I took out of the experience. First, the power of commitment to an ideal and goal. Many ask me how I can keep kosher, how difficult it must be. With Passover coming up & its many food restrictions, this question is as relevant as ever. But when it came to my food preparation for this tournament, it was relatively easy. My desire to be able to compete and realize my goal far outweighed my desire for pizza (and I LOVE pizza). It's a powerful thing to have something you believe in to the point of self sacrifice.

When challenged, sometimes we have to give up and ask for help. Ego would dictate that we can never accept help from others, that we have all of the answers. When I "tapped out" and submitted to my opponent, I realized I was outclassed and have more to learn. We mustn't be afraid to ask others for advice and help, to navigate life's challenges. We win some and lose some, but we continue to fight the battles of life.

Ultimately, I learned that showing up to a challenge is more than half the battle. Win or lose, you showed up. We have challenges throughout life, that we can shy away from or confront with a positive attitude. As a Jew, we are taught that every challenge or hardship, really comes from a good, Divine place, and has a purpose. Our job is just to show up and give it our all.

Life is short, but what we do rings for eternity. Hillel the Elder stated 2,000 years ago: "If I am not for myself, who will be for me? And when I am for myself, what am 'I'? And if not now, when?" (Ethics of our Fathers 1:14). Wishing you lots of success on your journey ahead!

Shabbat Shalom!

Bringing Heaven Down to Earth

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 13 Feb 2015 15:11:00 -0800

This week's Torah portion is Mishpatim - "Laws." As we say in Southern California, this seems like a total bummer! Last week in the portion of Yitro, we read how the Jewish people witnessed the amazing miracles at the giving of the Torah, where G-d spoke "face to face" with them, something that has never occurred before or since. Many religions stem from a supposed Divine revelation to one man, but here we had an entire nation, from the children to the elders.

But right after this intense prophetic experience, we're now mired in the nitty-gritty details of the various laws of the Torah, laws that are expounded at great length through tens of thousands of pages in the Oral Torah. "What if your dog bit my leg and put me out of work for a week? How much is the fine?" Our Sages teach a beautiful idea about this: The entire purpose, the essence of that incredible experience at Sinai where our souls left our bodies, was all in order to bring that same G-d and inspiration into our mundane, everyday lives. This is the purpose of the Mitzvot. To bring G-d's Infinite Will into the details.

In Medieval Europe, as often happened, there was once an accusation against the Jewish way of life. The court decided to hear out the claims of the prosecutor and a Rabbi who represented the Jewish community. The prosecutor argued to the judge: "How silly is this religion! There are so many laws; There's even a directive on how one is supposed to tie their shoes!" The judge looked thoughtfully at both men, and before the Rabbi could speak, he answered: "Actually, I think it's quite beautiful to think that G-d wants a relationship with us, even down to the most simple details of our lives."

True love is in the details. When one shows his or her's attention to the desire of the other, they are showing their true love for the other's inner desire. May we work in our own lives to pay more attention to the desires of our Divine friend, perfecting this world to its very last detail. What a fitting way to bring Mount Sinai down to earth.

Shabbat Shalom!

Joseph & His Brothers

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 26 Dec 2014 15:57:00 -0800

'Then Joseph said to his brothers, "Please come closer to me," and they drew closer. And he said, "I am your brother Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. But now do not be sad, and let it not trouble you that you sold me here, for it was to preserve life that God sent me before you.' (Genesis 45:4-5)

In this week's Torah portion, Vayigash, after an intense and moving dialogue between Joseph and Judah, Joseph finally reveals himself to his brothers, that he is the viceroy to Egypt's kingdom and their long lost brother. Our Sages remark that the shock and surprise they felt at that moment is akin to the shock we will feel at the time of the redemption and coming of Mashiach, when we will understand God's Presence was here all along.

What's so powerful and insightful here is Joseph's magnanimous reaction to his brother's ill treatment of him in the past. Hated by his brothers, Joseph was thrown into a pit and instead of killing him, his brothers sold him to a caravan of Ishmaelites. We know the rest of the story, as Joseph moves from servant to prisoner, and then rises to 2nd in command of the strongest nation of his time, with the vision and interpretation of Pharaoh's dream that famine was on its way that ultimately saved not only Egypt's people, but the entire Middle East.

How often do we focus on the deeper reasons behind what happens to us? Judaism teaches that everything that happens to us has a Divine plan and significance behind it. Yes, those that execute those plans toward us have free choice to do so, but that event was meant to happeneither way. It is up to us to choose to focus on the messenger of that plan, or the Director of the plan behind it all. Joseph chose to live his life according to the latter. He was meant to experience hard times, to descend into Egypt and servitude, in order to save the world. His brothers did wrong him, but he chose not to dwell on their mistake, but on the Divine plan behind it that was no mistake at all.

{Mind and perspective are crucial to interpersonal peace. At the end of Ch. 12 in his magnum opos, Tanya, Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi writes a radical idea when we are wronged: So, too, in matters between man and his fellow-man. As soon as there rises from his heart to his mind any animosity or hatred, God forbid, or jealousy, anger or a grudge, he will bar them from his mind and will, refusing even to think of them. On the contrary, his mind will prevail over and dominate the feelings of his heart, to do the exact opposite of that which the heart desires, namely, to conduct himself toward his fellow with the quality of kindness and to display towards his fellow a disproportionate love, in suffering from him to the furthest extreme, without being provoked into anger or to take revenge in kind, God forbid, even without anger; but, on the contrary, to repay offenders with favors, as taught in the Zohar, that we should learn from the example of Joseph’s conduct with his brothers, when he repaid them for the suffering they brought upon him, with kindness and favors.}

Like our forefather Joseph, let's try to focus on the deeper plan and not on the superficial experiences that occur to us. This doesn't mean to roll over and accept abuse, but rather to recognize that those around us have zero control over our fate, and that what happens to us has a deeper purpose.

Shabbat Shalom!

The Flames of Chanukah

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 19 Dec 2014 09:50:00 -0800

There are only a few things in this world that a person can gaze at for a while and get lost in. One of those things is a flame of fire. As it flickers upward and back down again, tearing itself away from its contact with wick or wood, it somehow radiates a quiet tranquility. We are now in the midst of the 8 nights of Chanukah, commemorating the victory of Jewish freedom over hellenist Greek oppression - light over darkness. As we watch the candles dance on these nights of Chanukah, what lessons can we take into our lives from the flickering flames?

A small candle lights up a dark room. Like the candle in the dark, our individual actions and positive thoughts and speech, can have a strong effect on our surroundings, especially in an area of spiritual darkness.

Growing slowly, one candle at a time. Why don't we light all 8 candles each night? The lesson in lighting only one more candle each night, is that we must strive to grow as people and as Jews, one step at a time. One mitzvah, one action that we connect with. That type of growth is slower, but lasting.
One candle can light infinite others. When lighting from one flame to another, notice that the original flame loses nothing. When helping others, we may think we are diminished - our time, financially, emotionally. But the truth is that we gain and fortify ourselves greater than before. And the ripple effect of our actions can carry on infinitely. See this video for an awesome example of this. There are so many other lessons, but let's end with this:

"The soul of a person is a candle of G-d" [Proverbs 20:27]. The soul descends into a body and material life, in order to carry out its individual mission on earth. On one hand, our souls desire to leave the "wick" - the body - and return to its source in heaven and spiritual bliss, like the candle always yearning upward. But ultimately the soul's purpose is on the wick, for only in the body is it able to perform its crucial mission of making the world a beautiful, G-dly place. Maybe the reason we like to stare at the flames of the candles, is because we are really staring into ourselves.

Shabbat Shalom & a very happy Chanukah to you!

The Light of Joseph

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 12 Dec 2014 16:01:00 -0800

In this week's Torah Portion, Vayeshev, we are first introduced to the great Joseph: "Yakov settled in the land of his father. These are the descendants of Yakov: Yosef was 17 years old." It's not by coincidence that every year the Torah portions about Yosef fall during the holiday of Chanukah (begins this Tuesday Night). Every holiday is associated with a forefather; Avraham with Passover, Isaac with Shavuot and Yakov with Sukkot. But who best exemplified the light of Chanukah?

At the beginning of the Torah's account of creation, G-d fashions a special light and hides it, calling it "good" - tov. Tov in hebrew is numerically equivalent to 17, the age of Yosef in this week's Torah portion. If that wasn't enough numerical connection for you, on Chanukah we light a total of 36 candles, and Yosef's mother Rachel died at the age of 36. Leah's Hebrew name equals 36, and Yosef's father Yakov was away from his home for 36 years.

In the book of Ovadiah (1:18), we read: "The house of Yakov will be fire, the house of Yosef a flame, and the house of Esau straw, and they will ignite them and devour them." Esau represents spiritual numbness, the darkness of exile full of assimilation and spiritual insensitivity. Yosef represents the light of the Jewish soul, able to illuminate this darkness with his flame of goodness and holiness like the menorah of Chanukah at night, even amidst the temptations and loneliness he experienced in Egypt.

As we watch the candles flicker on these upcoming 8 nights, let us meditate on their strength and power. A little bit of light dispels a lot of darkness. We light only one additional candle each day. We learn from this that our inner character growth can be slow and incremental, as long as it's real. Then it will last.

Happy Chanukah!

-Rabbi Daniel Bortz

A Walk on the Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 21 Nov 2014 14:08:00 -0800

~ This Torah thought is dedicated to those killed in Jerusalem this past week, and the comfort of their families. May Israel see no more pain ~

And Isaac said to Jacob, "Please come closer, so that I may feel you, my son, whether you are really my son Esau or not." So Jacob drew near to Isaac his father, and he felt him, and he said, "The voice is the voice of Jacob, but the hands are the hands of Esau."

There's a known story told in Islamic tradition. A father and son are walking along the beach towards the time of sunset. During this special moment, the father turns to his son and says: "Son, I love you."

As they continue walking, the son turns to his father and asks, "how much do you love me?" The father responds: "With all my heart." The boy then asks, "Father, how much do you love God?" To which the father responds, "With all my heart."

With a perplexed look, the boy asks his father one more question. "Father, how can you love me and God with all your heart?" Taken aback by this deep question, the father is very affected by it. The next morning, he packs up his bags, kisses his family, and ventures off into the mountains to dedicate himself only to God.

This story, a concept of spiritual asceticism prevalent in many religions, might not sit well with someone in the Jewish community. The reason is, that the Jewish view on attaining a true connection with God isn't through shunning materiality and human relationships, but is actually the exact opposite. Our physical lives and our relationships - when approached correctly through the teachings of the Torah - are actually vehicles for connecting to the Divine.

In this week's Torah portion, Jacob dresses in the clothes of his brother Esau, and receives a blessing from his father Isaac. On a deeper level, our Sages ask, why did the holy Jacob need to disguise himself in his murderous brother's clothing? The explanation is, that Jacob represents the soul, and Esau the body. In order to truly connect with God and draw down Divine blessing, the soul must be in a body and involve itself in elevating the world around them through the Mitzvot.

Wishing you a Shabbat Shalom!

The Ark of Shabbat

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 24 Oct 2014 13:28:00 -0700

B"H
In this week's Torah portion, we read the story of Noah and the flood (now a major motion picture), which was brought upon the earth because of the rampant immorality of the time. Noah was told by God to build an ark over a long period of time, to inspire those around him to repent before the upcoming flood. But to no avail. As the rain began to fall and the flood waters rose, only Noah and his family entered the ark which provided them with warmth and shelter for the coming year. Finally the waters began to recede and Noah's ark came to a rest. Noah and his family left the ark in order to rebuild the world in a righteous manner.

Every event of the Torah has a practical application applicable to our lives today. Hassidic Philosophy explains the story of Noah in a deeper way. In our day, the flood waters that threaten to drown us aren't liquid in nature, but represent the physical and material worries that inundate us. For someone who desires to live a meaningful life, how is it possible to get beyond all of our financial distractions and life's hassles and worries?

The answer to our problem can be found in what God told Noah to do when confronted with a flood: "Enter the ark." For us today, we are being told: "Enter that place where you can find the inspirational warmth and protection to propel you over the powerful waves of this world."

The Hebrew word for "ark" is tei-vah. Ask any Israeli what that word means, and they'll respond: "Word." The "ark" we must enter in order to successfully survive the material flood waters, is the words of prayer and Torah learning. These words help us navigate above the flood of everyday worries, and help guide our lives in a peaceful and purposeful manner.

Every morning we wake up to the same flood waters, prodding us constantly pursue material gain as an end unto itself. Prayer, and the learning of Torah, strengthen us to remember to every day treat every person we meet with respect and fairness. Inspiring us to affect positive change in our day. To realize a higher purpose in our dealings with the world. Business is to be conducted honestly, while money will be used help our children's education and others around us.

This is our daily "ark." But God Knew that we would need an extra-special ark that could strengthen us for our entire week of immersion in the flood waters of life. And that's Shabbat. This Shabbat, over 450 cities across the world will be joining together to celebrate one Shabbat, known as "The Shabbos Project." San Diego's can be found at: www.shabbatsandiego.org. Shabbat is a day to reflect and remember the purpose of life, and to gather inspiration and strength for the coming week. Every artist, from a painter to a musician, requires a time to pause in his work in order to reflect on the direction and quality of his piece.

Imagine you were gazing at a beautiful painting. Admiring the vast intricacies and amazing colors of this work of art, you came to feel great respect for the artist's painting skill. But what do you feel about the artist himself? What do you know about him at all?

The 6 days of the week, from Sunday to Friday, are times when we can appreciate God's beautiful world. On Shabbat we have the opportunity to connect with God beyond His creation and artwork, with the artist himself, celebrating this day of rest with Him.

May we all enter whichever ark we can, to help propel us over the flood waters of life and enter the world to build it into a more pleasant, happy and meaningful place.

Shabbat Shalom!

Rosh Hashanah - The 6th Day

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 24 Sep 2014 17:38:00 -0700

The Rosh Hashanah service centers around the sounding of the shofar. The shofar blasts are a wakeup call to examine our deeds and turn to a more wholesome and Jewish way of living. They also symbolize the coronation of God as King; much like trumpets at the anointing ceremonies of old. A question may arise: How can lowly mortal beings have an ability to anoint an Infinite God? Imagine walking into your back yard one afternoon. You spot a small anthill and, walking up to it, announce proudly that you are king of this great ant nation. It's absurd. To be a true king, one has to have a nation of a relatable quality.

The answer is very powerful: We can anoint God as our king because we are close to Him. When God formed each aspect of creation - from the angels in the highest of heavens to the lowest creatures of the sea bed, the Torah says: "He Spoke." But when He created man and woman, the Torah says God "Blew" a soul into their bodies. Metaphorically speaking, there is a clear difference between speech and deep breath. One can speak for hours without pause, for one uses his external breath with a minimum output. A deep breath however, comes from the innermost depths of a person, and therefore leaves him quite breathless. When God created each of us, He placed a precious soul from His innermost depths within our bodies. Our nation therefore, is close to Him, and able on Rosh Hashanah to crown Him as King for another year. Incredibly, our Sages say He cannot be King unless we do!

This also explains why Rosh Hashana - celebrating the Beginning of the year and of original creation - is actually marked on the 1st of Tishrei, which was the 6th day of creation, when Adam & Eve were formed. The Mystics explain that this is because God's Intention for all of creation, was all for the sake of the human being. On that original Rosh Hashanah day, King David in Psalms describes what happened in the Garden of Eden: "Come, let us prostrate ourselves and bow down; let us bend the knee before the Lord, our Maker." (Psalms 95:6) Adam brought the animals and all of creation together, to recognize God's role in their lives. We are here in order to perfect creation, the only ones able and entrusted to bring the world to an awareness of truth.

May you and yours be inscribed & sealed for a good and sweet year!

Soul Effects

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 18 Jul 2014 08:27:00 -0700

~ This is dedicated to God's protection over our brothers in battle in Israel. May we all pray for them and increase in goodness in the merit of their safety ~

A preschool teacher was once teaching her class. Taking out a few pictures depicting the weather, she points to the first picture which depicts a sunny day, and asks: "Class, what's the weather here?"

"Sunny!" Everyone yells.

How did they know? Simply because they saw the sun and its rays. Next came a picture depicting a rainy day. The children all guess correctly again, pointing to the dark clouds and numerous rain drops.Out came the 3rd picture.

"What's the weather here?" asks the teacher.
"It's windy!" Everyone yells.
But how did the children know? Unlike the sunny day or rainfall, there's no wind to point to.

The children could see the effects of the wind - the leaves flying off, the man and kite bending backward, and more. Love works like this as well. It can't be seen, weighed or heard. But its effects on our lives are clear.

Radio waves as well. They're everywhere even though we don't see them. If one brings a radio into their room and turns it on, the waves can be heard; they just needed a proper vessel to be expressed.

The soul too can't be seen and it can't be heard. But its effects are apparent. Like radio waves, the soul too needs a body to express itself and to carry out its purpose. Through a smile, a laugh, a tear, or a moving experience, we can see hints of the soul.

If we look at the Hebrew words for wind and rain, we discover something fascinating. Wind is Ruach, as is the word for soul/spirit. Spirituality/matters of spirit is known as Ruchaniyut. Like the wind in the picture, the spiritual can't be seen. Rain in Hebrew is Geshem, and physicality is called Gashmiut. Rain, like all things physical, is clear and apparent.

Judaism teaches that a spiritual, Godly life force exists and sustains all of reality. It may not be seen, but through its effects - such as the movement of life and the Divine Providence in our lives and so much more, we can deduce its existence. Each of us are holy souls passing ourselves off as just pieces of flesh (some with better abs than others). The challenge is to notice that which isn't readily apparent, to see with our mind's eye, sensing the subtleties of this world, the silent underlying force pulsing through our bodies and this universe. Sometimes it doesn't take a miracle or momentous occasion, but rather a simple, subtle, silent moment in nature.

...And a great and strong wind splitting mountains and shattering boulders before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake-not in the earthquake was the Lord. After the earthquake - fire, not in the fire was the Lord. And after the fire came a still, soft voice. (Kings 1, Ch.19:11-12)

Shabbat Shalom from Tzfat, Israel!

Preparing for Battle

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 13 Jul 2014 04:26:00 -0700

This past week, hundreds of rockets have rained on Israeli cities from the Gaza Strip. Despite the fear felt within Israel and in the Jewish community, there has also been an amazing display of unity and resilience among our worldwide community. While casualties on both sides are regrettable and awful, the ability for a free nation to provide safety and normalcy to its people when attacked is a necessary and fundamental right. Make no mistake, it is Islamic terror groups in Gaza (and now Lebanon) who are forcing Israel into action, not vice versa.

Years ago, I met a French man who had immigrated to Israel in the late 1980’s. In 1991, while living in Tel Aviv, Saddam Hussein rained 39 scud missiles on his city. When the dust had settled, not one Israeli had been killed by the rocket fire. To give us an idea of how incredible this was, one scud missile in February of that year struck a U.S. army base in Saudi Arabia, killing 28 and wounding 98. This man was so moved by the miracles in front of his eyes, that he renewed a stronger bond to Judaism and God in his life.

Does Judaism emphasize practicality and safety, or pure faith and trust in God's assistance? One of the earliest examples of dealing with threat of conflict in the Torah is seen with our forefather Jacob's meeting with his brother Esau and his army. First, Jacob sent messengers of good will and peace to his brother. He asked that he forget the old grievances of the past. Jacob had experienced great hardship during the past twenty years under the conniving Laban, whereas Esau was now a great chieftain. The messengers returned with disappointment. They had failed in their mission, and reported that Esau and his army seemed in the mood for a fight.

Jacob had no choice but to prepare for battle against his brother. He wisely divided his camp into two, so that one could escape if the other were defeated. Only then, feeling that safety and deliverance were in the hands of G-d alone, he prayed that He be with him in this fight against the superior troops of Esau.

Even though he had prepared for war, Jacob did not abandon hope for a friendly settlement with Esau. He sent servants bearing rich presents for Esau, to try and arouse his compassion. At the same time, he fervently prayed to G-d to turn Esau’s anger into a feeling of brotherhood.

Peace talks have failed time and again. The prospect of a lasting and practical peace for both sides must be pursued, but in the meantime Israel must deal with the reality of the situation, preparing for war as Jacob did, all the while praying to G-d for protection and a successful outcome. Just as the rockets of the Gulf war in 1991 couldn't kill any Jews, the hundreds of rockets in 2014 have failed as well. G-d's protection in the times of Jacob apply now more than ever. The Iron Dome has proven a true gift from G-d, through the incredible intelligence and ingenuity of Israel's Technicians at Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd.

But what can we can do to help? Just as Jacob placed his faith in Divine protection, while doing everything he could practically to achieve success, so can we. Together with advocating for Israel's right to self defense in our newspapers, on social media and on radio, our prayers and good deeds can serve as a spiritual boost of energy to our Israeli family. We have the right to bare arms with the Mitzvah of Tefillin, and light up the darkness of the world with Shabbat candles Friday evening. May our prayers and increase in goodness lead G-d to finally end conflict and pain for our people and the world, once and for all, speedily in our days.

Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem!

Rabbi Daniel Bortz

Twins in the Womb

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 4 Jul 2014 04:11:00 -0700

This Email is dedicated to our fallen brothers of Israel, Eyal Yirfrach, Gilad Shaar, and Naftali Frankel

Imagine twins living peacefully in their Mother's womb. They're happily enjoying their 9 month vacation, being fed via the navel, every need accounted for. The whole world, to these twins, is the interior of the womb. As they grow They begin to wonder: “Surely if this continues, we will exit this world one day. What will happen after we leave?”

The first infant tells the other: “I think that after this, there will be a new and great world. We will experience so much more! We will see amazing wonders over great distances, we'll hear through our ears and taste all types of foods with our mouths, we'll walk with our feet and think up endless ideas with our brains!"

The second child looks skeptically at his twin: “You’re crazy! You have a great imagination, but you have no proof. You are looking for something to calm your fear of the unknown. There is only this world that we experience. If you ask me, I think when we leave this environment, we will sink into oblivion. Nothing. A black void. An end to consciousness. This may not be comforting, but it's the logical outcome.”

Suddenly, the water inside the womb bursts. Upheaval & Turmoil. The optimistic twin exits to the sound of shouts from loving family members and friends. The second twin bewails and bemoans the tragedy - Why him?

This analogy pertains to our lives in this physical world, where a spiritual reality isn't readily apparent. However, unlike the twins in the story who had very little access to perceiving a greater reality than they're own, we have endless opportunities and insights int the spiritual, from the infinite complexities and beauty of our universe, to the wisdom of the Torah and the miracle which is the land of Israel.

As we mourn the loss of our loved ones, may we be comforted in the knowledge that there is more than what we see, and that those who leave this world, move to a better reality, greeted by loved ones.

Shabbat Shalom from Jerusalem!

Counting Diamonds

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 23 May 2014 13:57:00 -0700

"Count the heads of all the congregation of the children of Israel, by families following their fathers' houses" (Numbers,1:2).

Because of G-d's great love for His people, He counts them all the time. He counted them when they left Egypt. He counted them after they fell in the wake of the sin of the Golden Calf, to know the number of the survivors. And He counted them when He came to manifest His presence within them. (Rashi, commenting on this verse)

Every Sunday in his later years (from the age of 86-92 yrs. old), the Rebbe - Menachem Mendel Schneerson, would stand for hours on end, greeting all comers with a smile and an encouraging word, as well as a dollar to be given to charity. An elderly lady once remarked to him in wonder, "Rebbe, how can you do this? Don't you ever get tired standing for hours on end at your age?" The Rebbe responded: "One never gets tired when counting diamonds."

Unfortunately, most of us see the mud which covers up the diamond more often than not. It takes much self refinement and character improvement to be able to see good in another beyond any bad. Since the sin of Adam & Eve, the body supersedes the soul from our human viewpoint, making it much more difficult to see the soul of another; the inner good. There's "Me, Myself, and I" and then everyone else. Our job then is to become less inward focused and more sensitive to others, for each is a diamond of immense, unique value.

When looking at a star from earth, it looks the same as all of the others. But if we were to get a closer look, we would see the special, distinct quality of that unique star. So too with every person we meet. First glances may leave much to be desired, but if we make the effort to get to know the person, peering deeper, we may find a diamond inside.

Shabbat Shalom!

-Rabbi Daniel

The NFL Draft

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 11 May 2014 13:05:00 -0700

Yesterday and today, 32 million people (I'm guessing mostly males) were glued to their televisions, watching the NFL Draft (National Football League), where the top College football players are selected by one of the 32 professional teams. What lessons can we learn from a sport not known for its sensitivity and refinement?

I once read an op-ed in Sports Illustrated about NFL quarterback Jake Plummer. In 2007, at 32 years of age and healthy, the All-Pro Plummer was on track to make $5 million for the coming season. And then he retired. Just like that. Why leave the average American male's dream? To spend more time with family & enjoy life.

Plummer had a teammate with a fascinating life story, named Pat Tillman. Tillman also left football at the prime of his career; but for a different reason. He left to serve his country, enlisting in the army. He was soon sent off to Afghanistan, and was tragically killed in 2004. At his funeral, Plummer had this to say:

I was in the store the other day, and I saw PEOPLE magazine, and it had the cover of the 50 most beautiful people in the world, or in America, and there was a picture of Pat. It was kind of ironic because I really looked and said, What is beauty? Is beauty a pretty face, a nice smile, flowing hair, nice skin? Not to me, it's not. To me beauty is living life to higher standards, stronger morals and ethics and believing in them, whether people tell you you're right or wrong. Beauty is not wasting a day. Beauty is noticing life's little intricacies and taking time out of your busy day to really enjoy those little intricacies. Beauty is being real, being genuine, being pure with no facade - what you see is what you get. Beauty is expanding your mind, always seeking knowledge, not being content, always going after something and challenging yourself."

Such true words. I don't know if I could have this clarity if I was worshiped by millions of adoring fans, immersed in fame and fortune. Real beauty is not transient. It does not wrinkle or fade. When one dies, his muscles and wealth don't accompany him, but his Torah & good deeds do. "Beauty is living life to higher standards, not wasting a day, noticing life's intricacies, expanding your mind, not being content." Let's take advantage of every day.

True Freedom

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 12 Apr 2014 23:18:00 -0700

This Monday night, we begin celebrating the 8-day holiday of Passover by having the seder, a meal full of symbols and stories commemorating the exodus of the Jewish nation from Egypt, thousands of years ago. One year, soon after World War II and the atrocities of the holocaust, there was a call from many Jewish groups in America for families to "leave an empty seat at your seder" as a remembrance for those who had perished. The Lubavitcher Rebbe encouraged families to indeed commemorate their memories, but in an active way: Fill an empty seat with another Jew at your seder. Include someone in the holiday, inspiring their connection to their heritage - this is the best response to Hitler. As we celebrate with each other this Monday and Tuesday, what's the spiritual significance of this ancient holiday that we should be cognizant of?

Jewish Mysticism teaches an incredible idea about our Holidays, Shabbat, and time itself. When you look at your past and future, visualizing it in your mind, do you see it as a timeline, going as if from left to right? Many do. Some look at it as if it's behind and in front (which can be very positive for embracing your future and moving on from your past). Judaism describes reality similar to an upward spiral, where a certain date is perfectly aligned above the same point from the year before, going all the way back to the beginning of time. This means that the spiritual energy present on that date originally, is every year re-infused reality again.

The Hebrew name for Passover is Pesach, which literally means to leap forward. When the Jewish People left Egypt, outwardly it was a group of people leaving a physical location in North Africa. But the spiritual energy present is much deeper. Egypt in Hebrew is Mitzrayim; limitations in Hebrew is Maytzarim. This is a pocket in time where freedom from our personal "Egypts" is attainable. Each of us have Egypts of limitation within ourselves we must free ourselves from, that stop us from being the best we can be. Sadness, self esteem, anger, impatience, spiritual numbness. This explains why there is such a fixation in Jewish liturgy on the exodus from Egypt, as it says: "In every generation, and in every day, a Jew must recall the leaving of Egypt." On Pesach 2014, let us tune into the special energy of the night - the ability to leave and transcend any and all limitations in our lives. God wants what's best for us; we just have to give it our best and have trust.

Most importantly, make sure to have a very happy Passover! "And you shall rejoice in your festival" (Deuteronomy 16:12).

Purim - Hide & Seek

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 14:17:00 -0700

This Saturday Night-Sunday is the holiday of Purim. On Purim, there are 4 Mitzvot we can do: Hear the reading of the Megillah, eat a festive meal, deliver a food package of two items to a friend (Mishloach Manot), and give charity to two people. This holiday, perhaps more than any other, is connected to joy and celebration. We know that laughter comes from a surprise, an unexpected occurrence (just watch any VINE, prank video or YouTube comedy). Perhaps this is the source of our immense joy on Purim, since the Jewish people surprised everyone by their being saved and victorious in such dire circumstances{See the story here}.

But what is the primary theme of Purim?

The Megillah of Esther which tells the Purim story, is the only book of Tanakh that doesn't mention G-d's name. He's "hidden" throughout, directing the events in the Jewish people's favor. This is why we traditionally eat the hamantaschen cookie which is sweet on the inside, to signify that events in our lives - while they may seem bitter at times - have a sweet inner purpose and meaning. Our job is to recognize the G-d that is hidden behind Life's events. A story which illustrates this:

Once, there was a great Rabbi who was sitting in his home learning. Suddenly, his young son burst into the room sobbing loudly. His father asked what had happened. "I was playing hide & go seek with my friends, and I was chosen to hide. I hid & hid & hid... and no one came to look for me!" The boy's father comforted him, then said: "G-d does the same thing. He hides and no one searches..."

Unlike the human game where we find a very secluded hiding place, God hides everywhere. Every moment of our lives in every location, we’re able to uncover His presence if we venture to do so. Every bit of learning, mitzvot and good deeds reveals Him more. Reb Mendel of Kotzk once asked his students, “where is God?” Startled, the students responded: “He’s everywhere!” Reb Mendel smiled, and replied, “No. God is wherever you let Him in.” We have to make a conscious effort to seek G-d out, making room for His presence in our daily lives.

Through our celebrating G-d's providence and saving of our people in the times of Purim, may G-d finally reveal Himself to all of us with the coming of Mashiach speedily in our days!

Happy Purim!

-Rabbi Daniel

The Secret

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 17 Jan 2014 15:15:00 -0800

In this week's Torah portion, Yitro, we read about the giving of the Torah on Mt. Sinai, where G-d Speaks to the entire nation of the Jewish People. He speaks the 1st 2 Commandments, and Moses gives over the following 8. The rest of the "5 Books of the Torah" are transcribed by Moses as they occur for the next 40 years, as directed by God. The Torah differs from other books radically, in that it is a Divine Wisdom. In the stories and laws are contained layer upon layer of deeper meaning, revealed by the Rabbis throughout history, and continuing to this day. In the last chapter of his book, If G-d is so good, why is the world so bad? Rabbi Benjamin Blech describes a meeting he once had with a Jewish mystic that exemplifies how we are continually uncovering wisdom from the Torah.

He was visiting Israel when a friend told him there was someone very special that he wanted him to meet. A saintly scholar who lived in the holy city of Tzfat, in northern Israel. When he met him, the man revealed to him a mystical insight into the Torah, but on two conditions: that this secret not be revealed publicly until he informed the Rabbi that the time was ripe, and that he never reveal his identity, disturbing his lifelong pursuit of anonymity. This secret had a great effect on the Rabbi's life & view of the world, but he never divulged it to anyone. Years passed, until one day the mystic called the Rabbi and said simply: "Now is the time."

What was the "secret"? It was the "secret of sentences." Said the mystic: "Know that the verses in the 5 books of Moses, the Torah, correspond to the years of history. Every major event of all times will have some allusion to it, direct or indirect..." Rabbi Blech was doubtful. So he said, "what about the state of Israel?" Israel became a state in 1948; in the Jewish calendar, 1948 is the year 5708 (we are now in 5774). Painstakingly, Rabbi Blech began counting from the 1st verse of Genesis, describing the creation of the world. When he reached the 5,708th verse, it was Deuteronomy 30:3: "And the L-rd your G-d will turn your captivity and have compassion on you, and will return and gather you from all the peoples where the L-rd your G-d has scattered you." Shocked, Rabbi Blech's finger moved 3 verses back, to the verse corresponding to the Gregorian year of 1945, the last year of the holocaust: "The secret things belong to the L-rd our G-d; and the things that are revealed to us and our children forever are to do all the words of this Law." The 11th-century sage, Bachya Ibn Pakuda, said: "If we could understand G-d we would be G-d." Perhaps the "secret things" - the pain that occurs to us, has no mortal answer or reasoning to it; it is completely incomprehensible. But we are to know that there is a Divine purpose behind it; nothing is random.

After I read this, I decided to look up one last event, the miraculous victories by Israel in 1967 (5727). Israel conquered the west bank of the Jordan, Judea & Samaria, but halted there, not entering Jordan proper. The 5,727th verse in the Torah states: "(Moses) said to them, 'I am 120 years old today; I can no longer go out and come in, for Hashem has said to me, 'You shall not cross this Jordan.'"

Clearly, the Torah is no ordinary book. It is a guide to life; an instruction manual and blueprint. It has stayed the cornerstone of our people for thousands of years, through thick & thin, for good reason. Let's appreciate every story and detail of law that we read, knowing that there is so much more than meets the eye.

Shabbat Shalom!

-Rabbi Daniel

Appreciation

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 27 Dec 2013 14:07:00 -0800

'Say to Aharon, "Take your staff and stretch out your hand over the waters of Egypt...and they shall become blood..." (Shemot 7:19) G-d said to Moshe, "say to Aharon: Take your staff and strike strike the dust of the earth; and it will turn into lice throughout the whole land of Egypt." (Shemot 8:12)

In this week's Torah portion, Va'eira, Moshe is sent down by G-d to Egypt to redeem his brothers & sisters, the Jewish nation. During Pharaohs decree decades earlier, that every male born must be thrown into the Nile river and drowned, Moshe's mother Yocheved gave birth to Moshe. But instead of handing him over to the Egyptian authorities, she placed him in a secure basket, and placed it into the river. Miraculously, the basket flowed along until it is seen by Pharaoh's very own daughter, Batya, who saves the boy (incidentally, Batyameans 'daughter of G-d.' She is named such in honor of her saving one of G-d's children, Moshe.) Needing a mother to nurse the baby, Yocheved (mother of Moshe) is chosen. She nurses & raises Moshe, teaching him of his heritage and people, before he is given back to Batya's care. One day, already an adult in Pharaoh's household, Moshe walks out of the palace and sees an Egyptian taskmaster brutally beating a Hebrew slave. A man of action, Moshe utters a secret name of G-d, killing the Egyptian, and buries him. When Pharaoh finds out, he wants to kill Moshe, so he runs away, only to return many years later upon G-d's command.

When Moshe returns to Egypt, he demands the release of his people from slavery. When Pharaoh scoffs at this cheeky request, G-d strikes the Egyptians with 10 plagues. What's peculiar, however, as noted at the top of this page, is that G-d tells Moshe to take part in bringing down the plagues, but only the last 7 of them. It is his brother Aaron who is told to take part in the 1st 3: Water turning to blood, frogs and lice infestations. How come? The Midrash explains: "Since the river protected Moshe when he was thrown into it, it was not stuck by him at the plague of blood or that of frogs, but was instead struck by Aharon." (Midrash Shemot Rabah 9:10) And the lice? "It was not fitting that the dust be struck by Moshe because it protected him when he killed the Egyptian & hid him in the sand, so it was instead struck by Aharon." (Rashi)

~~~

A well-known Rabbi once went to visit a wealthy philanthropist for a donation. This was a man who, albeit not personally observant, supported the Torah study of many institutions. Curious, the rabbi asked him why he did this. Where did he develop such sensitivity towards yeshivot? He gave the following explanation: "I was a wild teenager, going from trouble to trouble. My parents sent me to Radin to the yeshivah of the saintly Chafetz Chaim. Perhaps there I would be inspired to calm down. Regrettably, I was not accepted. I just was not considered yeshivah material. I was not granted permission even to sleep overnight in the yeshivah. Where would I spend the night? The Chafetz Chaim said, 'You can stay at my home.' So, I went home with the Chafetz Chaim.

"The Chafetz Chaim's idea of home was a two room shack. He gave me his own bed. The room had no light and no heat. Apparently, the great Torah leader was a very poor man. I was a young boy, accustomed to a hot meal and a warm bed. Laying there at night, I was shivering from cold, tossing and turning, trying to fall asleep. The Chafetz Chaim walked in and noticed the frigid air in the room. Thinking to himself, 'It is too cold in here for such a young boy,' the sage took off his long frock, which was probably going to be his protective clothing for the night, and placed it on me, over the covers.

"Years later, I became a wealthy Jew. Although I had never become observant, I have never forgetten that incident, how the Chafetz Chaim took off his coat and covered me. I was a total stranger and he owed me nothing. Yet, he felt my pain and showed his love for me. I never forgot that feeling of being cared for and loved by a total stranger. I was so moved by that act of unsolicited kindness that whenever a representative of a Torah institution approaches me for a donation, I give it to him gladly. I will never forget that cold night in that little house, and the elderly man with the giant heart. That coat has kept me warm ever since."

The Torah teaches us the importance of gratitude. If Moshe showed such appreciation to water and earth, how much more so must we to human beings who treat us so well.

Shabbat Shalom!

-Rabbi Daniel

Burning, Not Consumed

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 20 Dec 2013 14:47:00 -0800

'Moses was pasturing the flocks of Jethro, his father in law, the chief of Midian, and he led the flocks after the free pastureland, and he came to the mountain of God, to Horeb. An angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire from within the thorn bush, and behold, the thorn bush was burning with fire, but the thorn bush was not being consumed. So Moses said, "Let me turn now and see this great spectacle why does the thorn bush not burn up?"...and God called to him from within the thorn bush...And Moses hid his face because he was afraid to look toward God.' (Exodus 3:1-6)

In this week's Torah portion, Shemot, we are introduced to the great Jewish leader Moshe (Moses), who is born and raised in Egypt during the times of Jewish enslavement under Pharaoh. After fleeing from Egypt, Moshe settles as a shepherd for his father-in-law in a neighboring land. One day, he sees a thorn bush on fire, but miraculously it wasn't being consumed at all, as seen in the above text. G-d then directs Moshe to redeem his people. Why did G-d use a burning thorn bush as a medium to appear to Moshe and communicate with him? What was its significance?

Our Sages teach that a prickly thorn bush causes pain. The thorns signified the trials and tribulations the Jewish people would go through in the future. It would be painful, G-d was showing Moshe. But as much as the people would be burned, they would never be consumed. The Jewish people will always survive intact as before. What was Moshe's reaction to G-d's first communication with him from the thorn bush? "And Moses hid his face." Let's look one step deeper at this story.

The Mystics teach that G-d was offering something special to Moshe. When G-d Appeared in the thorn bush, He was offering Moshe a chance to see the world from a Divine perspective. To understand why there would be persecution of the Jewish people, to give G-dly insight into the age old question of why do bad things happen to good people. Many may have jumped at this incredibly profound opportunity. But Moshe refused and looked away. He did this because he preferred to see the world from his people's perspective in times of pain and hardship. Moshe knew that once he saw life's events from a heavenly perspective and saw the hidden purpose for pain, he would lose some of his inner ability to defend and argue with G-d in the future when tribulations befell his people. He chose to side with his people from their lower perspective.

This story sheds insight into the fact that all of life's trials and tribulations have an inner, Divine intention for the good, even if we don't see it. It also shows us what a true leader is. Moshe refused to lead at first, too humble to feel worthy. He chose the needs of his people over all else. May God grant us leaders like these today, especially in Israel and the USA, and ultimately send us the truest leader of all, our righteous Mashiach speedily in our days.

Shabbat Shalom!

-Rabbi Daniel

Latkas and Doughnuts: The Inner Dimension

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 29 Nov 2013 14:08:00 -0800

It's the 3rd Night of Hanukkah tonight, and already my digestive system is pleading with me: "What's with all of these donuts and Latkas!? Spare me, please!" Now, I know you'll tell me that the whole miracle of Hanukkah we commemorate centers around the finding of one last jar of oil in the Temple and that's why we eat all of these oily foods. But let's take a deeper look.

What were the Syrian-Greeks trying to stamp out from the minds and hearts of the Jewish people? Unlike during the times of Purim where a decree was sent for the annihilation of the Jews physically, the oppression of our people by the Greeks was not on our bodies but on our souls and our beliefs.

The Greeks valued beauty: Art, music, philosophy, intellectual pursuit. Socrates, Plato, Homer, Aristotle. If we look back to the Biblical story of Noah and his 3 sons after the flood, the love of beauty in Greek culture makes perfect sense. Noah cursed Cham (look there for reasons why), blessed his son Shem (whom Abraham descended from) with spiritual truth, and blessed his 3rd son Yefet with beauty (Yefet had a son named Yavan, the progenitor of the Greek Empire). Noah wished, however, that this beauty "should be found in the tents of Shem." That true beauty could only truly be found when in a Godly, spiritual context.

But the Torah happens to be a beautiful work, full of philosophical and intellectual debate. It's the #1 best-selling book in History! [I'll have to check Harry Potter statistics later]. It has an original and all-Powerful Author as well. So what was the Greeks' problem? They should have rejoiced in the fact that they could fulfill the wishes of Noah, that spiritual beauty and aesthetic beauty could combine together in perfect harmony. It's known that there was a point in history when this harmony resided. The Talmud mentions an event when the mighty Greek ruler Alexander the Great, when greeting the Jewish sage Shimon Hatzadik, 'alighted from his chariot and bowed down before him...he exclaimed: Blessed is the G-d of Shimon Hatzadik!' Many respectful incidents between Roman rulers and the Sages of Israel exemplify this as well.

The later Greeks' annoyance, however, centered not on the Torah's intellectual beauty. No, the Greeks disliked that the Torah didn't remain just as another intellect. Mitzvot and Jewish ritual weren't considered by the Jews as mere customs and tradition. Jews considered Torah and Mitzvot to be God's Divine Will; that there's something beyond what the human intellect can reach on its own. That there's a higher, Divine reality.

Back to the oily Latkas and Donuts. Jewish mysticism likens oil to the Essence of Torah. Many examples are given why, one being that just as oil's nature is to pervade through and through whatever it comes in contact with (just ask your mother who had to clean your pant's stain ), so too the deepest truths of Torah pervade every fabric of our reality. As the "blueprint of the world", every aspect of life and of our world can be found in Torah on some level.

But unfortunately, oil can't be healthily consumed raw! For consumption of oil, it has to be cooked or fried with something. Spiritually speaking, this need to mix raw oil with dough, or potatoes and onions, or some other more tangible food, represents the need for the Essence of Torah (oil) to come down in a more tangible, "edible" way that we can comprehend, for pure Godliness would be too lofty for us mortals to handle. But through "cooking" and "baking" this Divine wisdom into words and teachings that we can understand, we are able to digest and internalize this divine wisdom and message. This is Torah, from its practical laws to its mystical aspects: 'Digestible' Godliness.

May we all take advantage of the 'donuts & latkas' (Torah and Mitzvot) in our midst throughout the entire year beyond Hanukkah, and let the Essential oil reveal our essential connection to God. And may the 'beauty of Greece' be found in 'the tents of Shem' - the tents of Divine purpose and meaning. Now go enjoy those latkas and doughnuts!

Happy Hanukkah & Shabbat Shalom!

Lighting The Darkness

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 22 Nov 2013 14:27:00 -0800

In this week's Torah portion, Vayeishev, we read about the sale of Joseph by his brothers into slavery. At only 17 years old, Joseph is forced to leave his realm of comfort and holiness in Israel with his father Jacob, venturing into the immoral abyss of Egypt. Everything happens for a reason, how much more so in the case of the lives of our forefathers. So what lessons can we learn from the life of Joseph?

After being sold by his very own brothers to a caravan heading for Egypt, Joseph goes through struggle after struggle, test after test. Still in his teen years, he is solicited incessantly by his employer's wife, and yet he resists time and again. And she couldn't have been the only one; It is said that Joseph had an indescribable beauty, such that whenever he would walk on the street, women would stop what they were doing just to catch sight of him, and would often injure themselves in the process! Yet Joseph stayed true to his moral ideals. He knew that he wasn't sent down to Egypt simply because of his brother's jealousy, but that it was God who wanted him there for some mission.

During the low points - when he was unfairly sent to prison in Egypt for 12 years for a crime he never committed, to the high points - when he was placed in control over the entire Egyptian nation, second only to Pharaoh, he knew it was for a higher purpose. Joseph not only accepted his tough situations with good faith and a smile, he embraced them with the full knowledge that he was placed there for a special mission of creating a better world that God would be proud of. Ultimately, it was Joseph whose plan ended up saving - not only the Egyptian people - but the entire world during the great famine of his time. Instead of succumbing to Egypt's temptations, or wallowing in self pity over the unfair hardships he had endured, Joseph shined, turning the darkness in his life into light.

One special example can be seen while Joseph was imprisoned in a dungeon after being falsely accused. One morning, he sees two dejected prisoners (Pharaoh's butler and baker) and walks over to them with a friendly smile. "Maduah p'neichem ra'im hayom?" he asks them. "Why are your faces sad today?" They tell Joseph of their bad dreams and he interprets them. The butler is later freed, and upon hearing Pharaoh's nightmare, he begrudgingly admits that there is a Hebrew slave that can interpret dreams. Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dream as meaning that starvation will hit Egypt soon, and Pharaoh then raises him to second in command, in charge of saving grain in order to eventually feed the entire starving world. How easy and normal would it have been for Joseph to have been sulking in prison, falsely accused and alone without family. Instead, he saw his miserable situation as a divinely planned opportunity. And because of one kind action, one friendly gesture, Joseph ended up saving the entire world!

Irregardless of our dire circumstances, the Jewish people have followed in their ancestor's path of looking at life as a mission with great importance. As the 2nd president of the United States, John Adams, once said: "I will insist the Hebrews have [contributed] more to civilize men than any other nation." As the eight nights of Hanukkah begin this Wednesday evening, may we take note of the light of the candles, working to illuminate the darkness of the world, one candle at a time.

Shabbat Shalom!

-Rabbi Daniel

This is My Torah

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 25 Sep 2013 17:25:00 -0700

Tonight is the Jewish holiday of "Shemini Atzeret," while tomorrow night is the famously joyous holiday of "Simchat Torah" - where we dance with the Torah, celebrating the completion of the yearly reading of the Torah & beginning anew. Rabbi Shalom DovBer Schneerson once said: The 48 hours of Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah should be highly treasured. Every moment is an opportunity to draw buckets and barrels of material and spiritual treasures. And this is accomplished through dancing. Below is an amazing true story connected to this dancing, I hope you enjoy. May you have a very happy holiday! By Ruth Benjamin

Henryk was very young in 1945, when the War ended and solitary survivors tried frantically to trace their relatives. He had spent what seemed to be most of his life with his nanny, who had hidden him away from the Nazis at his father's request. There was great personal risk involved, but the woman had readily taken it, as she loved the boy. All the Jews were being killed, and Henryk's nanny did not think for a moment that the father,Joseph Foxman, would survive the infamous destruction of the Vilna Ghetto. He would surely have been transferred to Auschwitz -— and everyone knew that nobody ever came back from Auschwitz. She therefore had no scruples about adopting the boy, having him baptized into the Catholic Church and taught catechism by the local priest.

He told his son that he was a Jew and that his name was Avraham. It was Simchat Torah when his father came to take him. The heartbroken nanny had packed all his clothing and his small catechism book, stressing to the father that the boy had become a good Catholic. Joseph Foxman took his son by the hand and led him directly to the Great Synagogue of Vilna. On the way, he told his son that he was a Jew and that his name was Avraham. Not far from the house, they passed the church and the boy reverently crossed himself, causing his father great anguish. Just then, a priest emerged who knew the boy, and when Henryk rushed over to kiss his hand, the priest spoke to him, reminding him of his Catholic faith. Everything inside of Joseph wanted to drag his son away from the priest and from the church. But he knew that this was not the way to do things. He nodded to the priest, holding his son more closely. After all, these people had harbored his child and saved the child's life. He had to show his son Judaism, living Judaism, and in this way all these foreign beliefs would be naturally abandoned and forgotten.

They entered the Great Synagogue of Vilna, now a remnant of a past, vibrant Jewish era. There they found some Jewish survivors from Auschwitz who had made their way back to Vilna and were now rebuilding their lives and their Jewish spirits. Amid the stark reality of their suffering and terrible loss, in much diminished numbers, they were singing and dancing with real joy while celebrating Simchat Torah. Avraham stared wide-eyed around him and picked up a tattered prayer book with a touch of affection. Something deep inside of him responded to the atmosphere, and he was happy to be there with the father he barely knew. He held back, though, from joining the dancing.

A Jewish man wearing a Soviet Army uniform could not take his eyes off the boy, and he came over to Joseph. "Is this child... Jewish?" he asked, a touch of awe in his voice. "This is the first live Jewish child I have come across in all this time..." The father answered that the boy was Jewish and introduced his son. As the soldier stared at Henryk-Avraham, he fought to hold back tears. "Over these four terrible years, I have traveled thousands of miles, and this is the first live Jewish child I have come across in all this time. Would you like to dance with me on my shoulders?" he asked the boy, who was staring back at him, fascinated. The father nodded permission, and the soldier hoisted the boy high onto his shoulders. With tears now coursing down his cheeks and a heart full of real joy, the soldier joined in the dancing.

"This is my Torah scroll," he cried.

Abe Foxman, the national director of the Anti-Defamation League -- the Avraham in our story -- remembers this as his first conscious feeling of a connection with Judaism and of being a Jew.

A Rosh Hashana Meditation

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 4 Sep 2013 02:33:00 -0700

~ If you are in S. Diego next Wednesday, I'd love to see you at my class on Yom Kippur. See details here: atONEment: The Kabbalah of Yom Kippur~

Tomorrow night (Wed. Night - Fri. Night) Jews worldwide will be celebrating Rosh Hashana, the special holiday which marks the beginning of the Jewish year and calendar. The Mystics describe this day as a bit deeper than the usual New Years Eve parties in Time Square. What occurred on this day originally that is significant and relevant to our lives today? What is the theme of this time?

"Rosh Hashana" marks the beginning of the year, but literally means "the head of the year." Our Sages explain that this time is like the "brain" of the year - including all of the abilities of the entire "body". All that will be with us and the world is decided on this day and expressed over the next 364 (this is not to say that we cannot effect change every moment to what's planned for us, through prayer and action. This idea needs more explanation in another essay).

Oddly enough, the Talmud teaches that Rosh Hashana does not mark the 1st day of creation, but rather the 6th day! True, this is the day Adam and Eve were formed, but God Created many beautiful things; why focus only on this day? This leads us to an amazing conclusion: God's Intention for all of creation - from the innumerable spiritual worlds and endless galaxies to the countless creatures that rove our planet and species of plants - all were for the sake of the human being to perfect this particular world through Torah, Mitzvot and good deeds. In Psalm 95, King David describes a powerful scene on the 6th day of Creation: Adam brought all created beings together, saying: "Bo'u Nishtachaveh, V'nichra'ah..." - "Come, let us prostrate ourselves and bow down; let us bend the knee before the Lord, our Maker." Man and woman and their descendants had been charged with a mission to bring an awareness of the Divine to the physical world. When you make a blessing on a fruit, place charity into a pauper's hands, or perform any of the Mitzvot with your body, you are fulfilling this unique human purpose.

How can we make such a brash and haughty statement as this, that all of existence - including the most lofty of angels - exist merely to facilitate the human mission!? Let's look at the original words in Genesis when God formed each creature. How did he do it? Through speech, as it says: 'And God said, "Let the earth sprout forth vegetation.." and it was so... And God said, "Let the earth bring forth living creatures according to their kind.." and it was so.'

However, after He created man and woman, the Torah says: "And He blew into his nostrils a soul of life, and man became a living being." (Genesis 2:7) "One who blows, blows from within." (Zohar) One can speak for hours & hours without pause, because one only uses his external breath with a minimum output. A deep breath comes from the innermost depths of a person, and therefore leaves him quite breathless. God has no mouth or human form, and the Torah is speaking metaphorically; the analogy here is that the soul that each of us possesses stem from an incredibly deep level within God, deeper than the greatest of angels - who stem from the "speech" of God.

All of this leads us to a profound and also simple conclusion: 'On Rosh Hashana, whether at home or in synagogue, I am taking the time to think about this incredible gift of a soul I was given - that I am - and how I will use it to fulfill my individual mission this year to better my world and relationships, between other people and I and between God and I.' God desires that we celebrate and honor the revolutionary day when man and woman could actualize the purpose for all the rest of creation. May we all maximize this special time, and be inscribed for a very good & sweet new year with only revealed good, culminating in the final redemption speedily in our days!

-Rabbi Daniel

Bells and Pomegranates

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 30 Aug 2013 16:38:00 -0700

In the times of the holy Temple in Jerusalem, behind the Western Wall, the High Holidays were a whole different ball game from what we have today. On Yom Kippur, the people didn't stand in synagogue all day. Rather, they ascended to Jerusalem and watched the Kohen Gadol, the holiest Jew of the time, perform an intricate service inside the Temple. On Yom Kippur, when entering the room known as the 'holy of holies' with the Ark, the Kohen Gadol would wear 4 garments of white, just like other Kohanim. However, the rest of the year he would wear 8 garments, including a 'me'il' (cloak) which covered his entire body, made of the special blue color of techeilet. The Torah describes that at the bottom of this garment were to be golden bells and pomegranates. What were they there for and what did they symbolize?

At first glance, there is an extremely strange argument between two of the greatest medieval commentators on the Torah regarding these bells and pomegranates. Rashi explains that on the lower helm of the garment were bells, pomegranates, bells, pomegranates - separate from one another. The Ramban (Nachmanides) argues and posits that each bell was inside each pomegranate. The reasoning he uses seems baffling: "According to Rashi's view, why not use apples instead of pomegranates?" Perhaps, explains other commentators, Ramban is referring to the circular, apple-shaped golden ornaments of the Menorah in the Temple. If they are for beauty, why not just use apples? Let's leave the pomegranates for a moment and focus on the bells. The reason for the bells was in order that the Kohen Gadol "be heard." Why was that important? The Ramban explains simply, that when entering the presence of a King without asking permission first, bursting in, is extremely insensitive and rude. So the noise of the bells symbolized his approach to a holy place. But if we look deeper, a question can arise: Is holiness really represented by sound, or is it by silence?

The loftiest time of prayer is during Shemonah Esrei - the Silent Prayer. The holy Zohar explains that one of the sources for why we pray silently at the apex of prayer comes from the vision of Elijah the Prophet in the Book of Kings: "Fire came, but God was not in the fire. An earthquake came, but God was not in the earthquake. Then a great wind came by, but God was not in the wind. Then came a 'kol demamah dakah' - still, small voice." Noise represents complexity and passion, whereas silence represents unity and oneness. Chassidic Philosophy connects this concept with the difference between the relationship with God a Baal Teshuva (repentant) has, and a Tzadik perfectly righteous person has. The newcomer is "loud", coming from an opposite world and state of mind to connect with God with a strong passion. The Tzadik is "silent", having felt one with God for as long as he's known. The angels too are divided into those that sing passionately (Ophanim V'chayot Hakodesh) and those on a higher level (Seraphim) who are unified with God in complete silence. Imagine walking into a complex class being given. There you might see 3 types of students listening: 1) The silent student who is quiet because he is spaced out and has no idea what is going on. 2) The loud student, who is beginning to understand and is asking question after question with passion. 3) The silent student who is smiling; silent because there is no complexity for him; the knowledge of his teacher has unified with his mind.

In 2013, our service of God needs to be "noisy". "Silence" in our case would be akin to the spaced out student, totally apathetic. We have to improve and grow, working to rise beyond to connect with God. Many ask why Jews who pray move so much, swaying back and forth. The Baal Shem Tov once remarked: "Have you ever seen someone that's trying to avoid drowning? They're moving passionately. To avoid "sinking" into the materialism and apathy of this world, one has to be passionate. Now we can return to our question in even stronger terms: Why would the Kohen Gadol have bells at all!? The holiest person entering the holiest place in the world - more than anyone else - should signify silence and oneness with God! The answer is a very powerful one: The Kohen Gadol didn't live for himself. He lived for the people and when entering the Temple, was spiritually bringing the entire Jewish people in with him. That's why he needed bells, signifying the service of noise of the people, fighting to connect to God. That's why the bells were at the lowest part of the hem of his cloak; the Kohen Gadol was bringing in even those who felt most distant and low. Now we can understand what the Ramban was saying to Rashi about apples and pomegranates. Apples, throughout the Kabbalah, represents a holy level. Pomegranates represent a lower level trying to connect to a higher level: "Even the empty ones among you are filled with Mitzvot like a pomegranate is filled with seeds." (Talmud Berachot 57a) The Rebbe once asked: "If every Jew is filled with Mitzvot, how can he be called empty?"

As the high holidays approach, let us take advantage of these special moments to connect with God, both with passion and at times with silence, with the full knowledge that each of us are looked at as a pomegranate - even though we can improve, we are each full of good deeds and are brought in to the holy of holies.

Shabbat Shalom!

-Rabbi Daniel