Aliya Summary: Moshe fast-forwards 38 years. The generation which
left Egypt had perished. Now their children were ready to enter Canaan.
But first G‑d instructs the Israelites regarding three nations whose
land was off-limits for them: Seir (Edom), Moab and Amon. These lands
were the rightful inheritance of the descendants of Esav and Lot.
Instead, the Israelites circled these lands and approached the land of
Sichon, king of the Emorites, and requested passageway through his land.
Sichon refused the Israelites' request.
While
recapping the events of the generation that died in the desert, the
Passuk refers to them as "men of war", which Rashi explains to mean that
they were eligible to fight because they were between the ages of 20
and 60. But just because they were eligible to fight didn't necessarily
entitle them "men of war", unless it's a vague hint at the
personalities of those people, choosing to be confrontational,
argumentative, and generally controversial, qualities that often gets
people into trouble, and elicits labels people don't always deserve.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
Wednesday, July 30, 2014
Daily Aliya for Devarim, Revii (4th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: Moshe continues: At that time G‑d instructed the
Israelites to reverse course and head back to the desert. Realizing
their dreadful error, a group of Israelites proceeded to advance toward
Israel -- in the face of Moshe's objections. Lacking divine protection,
they were immediately attacked and massacred by the Emorites. At this
point, the Israelites heeded G‑d's command, and headed back to the Sinai
Desert.
The Emorites attacking the Jews is compared to bees attacking (verse 44), perhaps because they swarmed, maybe because they were merely protecting their home. Rashi says they were compared to bees because just like bees die after they sting, those Emorites similarly died after attacking those Jews. G-d was (and is) protective of us even while meting out punishment!
The Emorites attacking the Jews is compared to bees attacking (verse 44), perhaps because they swarmed, maybe because they were merely protecting their home. Rashi says they were compared to bees because just like bees die after they sting, those Emorites similarly died after attacking those Jews. G-d was (and is) protective of us even while meting out punishment!
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
Daily Aliya for Devarim, Shlishi (3rd Aliya)
Aliya Summary: At that time, the Israelites approached Moshe and
demanded the right to send out scouts to reconnoiter the land. Moshe
recounts the tragic episode in detail, how the scouts delivered a
frightening report, claiming that the land was unconquerable. Despite
Moshe's protests, the Israelites adopted the scouts' attitude and
decided not to enter Canaan. This caused G‑d to bar that entire
generation from entering the Promised Land.
Apparently they Israelites asked Moshe to allow the scouts to go so they can find the best path for the Israelites to enter the land. Then Rashi adds that "there is no road without a bend", a profound reality tragically ignored by the Israelites, and many others today. In my days engaged in Jewish outreach, I would come across many teenagers, some eager to learn and know, while others eager looking to find that twist in the road they didn't agree with. It's always there, you just need to be willing to slow down and navigate the turns, and come out ahead on the other side.
Apparently they Israelites asked Moshe to allow the scouts to go so they can find the best path for the Israelites to enter the land. Then Rashi adds that "there is no road without a bend", a profound reality tragically ignored by the Israelites, and many others today. In my days engaged in Jewish outreach, I would come across many teenagers, some eager to learn and know, while others eager looking to find that twist in the road they didn't agree with. It's always there, you just need to be willing to slow down and navigate the turns, and come out ahead on the other side.
Monday, July 28, 2014
Daily Aliya for Devarim, Sheni (2nd Aliya)
Aliya Summary: After the Israelites consented to the idea, Moshe
appointed a hierarchy of judges to preside over the nation. Moshe
recalls instructing them the basics of judicial integrity. Moshe then
recounts how the Jews traveled through the desert and quickly reached
Kadesh Barnea, on the southern border of the Holy Land.
The qualifications for someone to be a judge or enforcer over others is quite long, although not universally agreed. Among the qualities discussed are: Understanding, righteous, bashful (of mis-judging), wise, familiar (so they know their litigants' situations), respected. The Gemara says that the one quality Moshe couldn't find was understanding, not the quality I would have thought would be lacking. But Sifri explains that this "understanding" was the ability to learn one thing from another, something that clearly requires not only familiarity with the existing rules, but a comfort level with them that would enable this extraction, much like the Gemara does many years later. So Moshe settled for the other qualities, "understanding" that the understanding would follow years later...
The qualifications for someone to be a judge or enforcer over others is quite long, although not universally agreed. Among the qualities discussed are: Understanding, righteous, bashful (of mis-judging), wise, familiar (so they know their litigants' situations), respected. The Gemara says that the one quality Moshe couldn't find was understanding, not the quality I would have thought would be lacking. But Sifri explains that this "understanding" was the ability to learn one thing from another, something that clearly requires not only familiarity with the existing rules, but a comfort level with them that would enable this extraction, much like the Gemara does many years later. So Moshe settled for the other qualities, "understanding" that the understanding would follow years later...
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Daily Aliya for Devarim, Rishon (1st Aliya)
General Overview: This week's Parsha begins the Book of Deuteronomy,
the fifth and final book of the Five Books of Moshe. Moshe begins his
final monologue, five weeks before his passing. He recounts the story of
the Israelite's travel through the desert, placing emphasis on, and
rebuking them for, the story of the spies. He describes Israel's
conquest of the Emorites and the Bashanites.
Aliya Summary: The Israelites are situated on the eastern bank of the Jordan River, on the verge of entering the land of Canaan, and Moshe's death is imminent. This is the setting for Moshe's final statements to the nation he lovingly tended for four decades. After delivering a veiled rebuke to the nation for their many past misdeeds, Moshe revisits the period, some 39 years earlier, before the Israelites left Mount Sinai at G‑d's behest, with the intention of immediately invading and entering Canaan. At that time, Moshe expressed to the Jews his inability to single-handedly bear the burden of leadership, because "G‑d, has multiplied you, and behold, you are today as the stars of the heavens in abundance."
Aliya Summary: The Israelites are situated on the eastern bank of the Jordan River, on the verge of entering the land of Canaan, and Moshe's death is imminent. This is the setting for Moshe's final statements to the nation he lovingly tended for four decades. After delivering a veiled rebuke to the nation for their many past misdeeds, Moshe revisits the period, some 39 years earlier, before the Israelites left Mount Sinai at G‑d's behest, with the intention of immediately invading and entering Canaan. At that time, Moshe expressed to the Jews his inability to single-handedly bear the burden of leadership, because "G‑d, has multiplied you, and behold, you are today as the stars of the heavens in abundance."
Friday, July 25, 2014
Daily Aliya for Massei, Shvii (7th Aliya)
In last week's reading, G‑d instructed Moshe to give the daughters of
the deceased Zelophehad his portion in the land of Israel. The elders
of Zelophehad's tribe now protested that this would cause Zelophehad's
sons -- who could possibly be of another tribe -- to inherit their
mother's properties, thus possibly transferring land from the portion of
their tribe to another. G‑d therefore instructs Zelophehad's daughters
to marry men from their own tribe, so the land they inherit will remain
in their ancestral tribe.
Daily Aliya for Massei, Shishi (6th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: The Jews are commanded to designate six cities of
refuge. These cities offer refuge to a person who inadvertently kills
another. The murderer must remain in the city of refuge until the death
of the serving High Priest. The Jews are enjoined not to take "blood
money" from a -- intentional or unintentional -- murderer who wishes to
lighten his sentence.
Strict adherence to all rules of justice assure us continued "quality living" in Israel, accompanied by the Divine Presence.
Strict adherence to all rules of justice assure us continued "quality living" in Israel, accompanied by the Divine Presence.
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Daily Aliya for Massei, Chamishi (5th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: The Jews are commanded to provide the Levites with 48
cities where they would dwell -- 42 cities plus the six cities of refuge
which would be designated. Along with these cities, the Levites were
given expanses surrounding the cities for their cattle.
Note that the measure of 2000 amot as "city limit" was subsequently borrowed by the Sages in fixing the distance outside the dwelling place that a person may walk on Shabbat.
Note that the measure of 2000 amot as "city limit" was subsequently borrowed by the Sages in fixing the distance outside the dwelling place that a person may walk on Shabbat.
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Daily Aliya for Massei, Revii (4th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: G‑d appoints a representative from each tribe to divide his tribe's portion of land between the tribal members.
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Daily Aliya for Massei, Shlishi (3rd Aliya)
Aliya Summary: G‑d instructs the Jewish people to eradicate all
Canaan's inhabitants and destroy their idols after crossing the Jordan
River. The borders of the land of Israel are delineated. The land was to
be divided by lottery among the nine and a half tribes (Reuben, Gad and
half of the tribe of Menashe were going to settle on the eastern bank
of the Jordan).
The Ramban sites these verses as the source of the mitzvah (commandment) in the Torah to dwell in Israel - a mitzvah that he says applies today. The Ramban counts this mitzva as one of the 613 mitzvot of the Torah. The Rambam does not. This does not mean that the Rambam does not consider it a mitzvah to live in Israel. He echoes the Talmud in saying that "a person should always choose to live in Israel, even in a city with a majority of idol worshipers, rather than live outside of Israel, even in a predominantly Jewish city".
The Ramban sites these verses as the source of the mitzvah (commandment) in the Torah to dwell in Israel - a mitzvah that he says applies today. The Ramban counts this mitzva as one of the 613 mitzvot of the Torah. The Rambam does not. This does not mean that the Rambam does not consider it a mitzvah to live in Israel. He echoes the Talmud in saying that "a person should always choose to live in Israel, even in a city with a majority of idol worshipers, rather than live outside of Israel, even in a predominantly Jewish city".
Monday, July 21, 2014
Daily Aliya for Massei, Sheni (2nd Aliya)
Aliya Summary: The rest of the journeys are enumerated.
Rashi points out that with 14 places before the decree to wander, and with 8 places in the final year, there were only 20 places that the People moved to and from in 38 years or so. That is not really all that much. G-d was merciful with the People even as He was punishing them.
Rashi points out that with 14 places before the decree to wander, and with 8 places in the final year, there were only 20 places that the People moved to and from in 38 years or so. That is not really all that much. G-d was merciful with the People even as He was punishing them.
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Daily Aliya for Massei, Rishon (1st Aliya)
General Overview: In this week's Parsha, Massei, Moshe reviews the
forty years of Israelite journeys through the desert. The Torah
discusses the boundaries of Israel, its division amongst the tribes, the
cities which the Levites would receive, and the cities of refuge.
Zelophehad's daughters are restricted to marrying within their own
tribe.
Aliya Summary: The Torah recounts the
journeys of the Jews in the desert. In the first Aliya the Torah lists
the first seven of the 42 journeys which took them from Egypt to the
banks of the Jordan.
Friday, July 18, 2014
Daily Aliya for Matot, Shvii (7th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: Moshe accepts the offer of the Reuvenites and
Gaddites, and informs Joshua and Elazar the High Priest of the
agreement. These two tribes, along with half of the tribe of Menashe
settle on the eastern bank of the Jordan, and conquer many of the areas
wherein they encountered opposition.
Communications, especially among leaders, is critically important, as Moshe demonstrates. It avoid misunderstandings, resentment, and negative reactions (even short-lived negative reactions have potential to cause damage).
Communications, especially among leaders, is critically important, as Moshe demonstrates. It avoid misunderstandings, resentment, and negative reactions (even short-lived negative reactions have potential to cause damage).
Daily Aliya for Matot, Shishi (6th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: The tribes of Reuven and Gad owned lots of cattle.
Seeing that the eastern bank of the Jordan -- the lands of Sichon and Og
which they had just conquered -- had abundant pasture, they asked Moshe
if they could remain and settle on the eastern bank. Moshe angrily
responds that they are following in the footsteps of the spies who were
fearful of the Canaanites, did not want to enter the land of Israel, and
discouraged the entire nation from doing so. The Reuvenites and
Gaddites respond that they will leave their cattle and families behind
in fortified cities, and all their men will proceed into Israel with
their brethren and lead them in the conquest of the land. Only after all
the land has been conquered and settled would they return to the other
side of the Jordan.
The actions of these tribes (that of fighting with their brethren) helped prove to Moshe and everyone that their intention wasn't to disengage from the people, but merely a practical solution to having so much cattle. This proved appropriate and effective, and is an effective method of leading: with action, not words.
The actions of these tribes (that of fighting with their brethren) helped prove to Moshe and everyone that their intention wasn't to disengage from the people, but merely a practical solution to having so much cattle. This proved appropriate and effective, and is an effective method of leading: with action, not words.
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Daily Aliya for Matot, Chamishi (5th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: From the other portion of the spoils, the half divided
among the rest of the Israelites, 1/50 was given to the Levites. The
army officers count the soldiers who returned from battle, and determine
that not a single man was lost in the war. To show gratitude to G‑d for
this miracle, the officers donate to the Tabernacle all the gold
jewelry which they personally plundered from the Midianites.
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Daily Aliya for Matot, Revii (4th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: The spoils of the war were evenly divided between the
soldiers and the greater community. From the portion of the spoils given
to the soldiers, a tithe of 1/500 was given to Elazar the High Priest.
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Daily Aliya for Matot, Shlishi (3rd Aliya)
Aliya Summary: Moshe is enraged that the Midianite females were
spared. "They were the primary culprits; the ones who seduced the
Israelites and brought about the plague which killed so many!" Moshe
exclaimed. All the males and all women who possibly could have been
involved in the campaign of seduction were killed. The soldiers are then
instructed how to purify themselves from the ritual impurity they
contracted from contact with corpses in the course of battle. They are
also told how to kosher the food utensils which were among the spoils.
In addition to the main rebuke that Moshe gives Reuven and Gad, there is a more subtle rebuke on another issue. The tribes offer to build corrals for their flocks and homes for their children. Later, when Moshe gives them permission to establish themselves on the east bank, he tells tham to build homes for their children and accommodations for their animals. Your children go first, and only THEN your property.
In addition to the main rebuke that Moshe gives Reuven and Gad, there is a more subtle rebuke on another issue. The tribes offer to build corrals for their flocks and homes for their children. Later, when Moshe gives them permission to establish themselves on the east bank, he tells tham to build homes for their children and accommodations for their animals. Your children go first, and only THEN your property.
Monday, July 14, 2014
Daily Aliya for Matot, Sheni (2nd Aliya)
Aliya Summary: The Israelites are commanded to exact revenge from the
Midianites for their part in seducing Jewish men to sin (described in
the end of the Torah reading of Balak, Numbers 25). A 12,000-strong army
of Israelites, led by Pinchas, waged battle against Midian. All adult
Midianite males were killed, along with Balaam and Midian's five kings.
The women, children, and battle spoils are brought back to the Israelite
encampment.
Rashi explains that the reason why revenge is to be taken against the Midianites and not the Moavites, even though they both attacked us, is because the Moavites attacked out of fear of being attacked by the Jews, while the Midianites attacked unprovoked. The same actions are treated and understood differently, and treated differently, based purely on intent. We all judge others based on their actions, but G-d judges us based on our intent, too.
Rashi explains that the reason why revenge is to be taken against the Midianites and not the Moavites, even though they both attacked us, is because the Moavites attacked out of fear of being attacked by the Jews, while the Midianites attacked unprovoked. The same actions are treated and understood differently, and treated differently, based purely on intent. We all judge others based on their actions, but G-d judges us based on our intent, too.
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Daily Aliya for Matot, Rishon (1st Aliya)
General Overview: This week's Torah reading, Matot, begins with the
laws of oaths. The Israelites wage battle against Midian and the spoils
are divided and tithed. The tribes of Reuven and Gad request and receive
territory outside the mainland of Israel.
Aliya Summary: This Aliya discusses the laws of verbal vows. A person who obligates him or herself with a vow is required to fulfill the vow. Under certain circumstances, a husband or father can annul vows made by his wife and daughter.
Aliya Summary: This Aliya discusses the laws of verbal vows. A person who obligates him or herself with a vow is required to fulfill the vow. Under certain circumstances, a husband or father can annul vows made by his wife and daughter.
Friday, July 11, 2014
Daily Aliya for Pinchas, Shvii (7th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: This Aliya discusses the sacrifices offered on the holidays of Succot and Shemini Atzeret.
During the seven days of Succot 70 bulls , 14 rams and 98 lambs were sacrificed. Rashi explains that the bulls represented the 70 nations, explaining that the sacrifices "shielded them from adversity". It's unclear if the Jews were shielded, or the nations were. I'd like to think that both are true, and that as the nation with the closest relationship with G-d, we shield the world from adversity. In those days it was with sacrifices, and these days it's with morality, even when facing hostile and tense situations. As a "light unto the nations", it's always been our responsibility to "represent".
During the seven days of Succot 70 bulls , 14 rams and 98 lambs were sacrificed. Rashi explains that the bulls represented the 70 nations, explaining that the sacrifices "shielded them from adversity". It's unclear if the Jews were shielded, or the nations were. I'd like to think that both are true, and that as the nation with the closest relationship with G-d, we shield the world from adversity. In those days it was with sacrifices, and these days it's with morality, even when facing hostile and tense situations. As a "light unto the nations", it's always been our responsibility to "represent".
Daily Aliya for Pinchas, Shishi (6th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: This Aliya discusses the sacrifices offered on
Passover, Shavuot, Rosh Hashanah, and Yom Kippur. The Torah also
discusses some of the laws related to these holidays.
In case you were wondering about the "recipe" for these sacrifices, Rashi explains that the bulls represent Avraham (who ran to get cattle to feed his guests), the ram represents Yitzchak (Isaac - the ram replaced him as a sacrifice), and the lambs represent Yakov (Jacob - separated the lambs in his camp). Referencing our forefathers has two distinct benefits: It helps us put the sacrifices, our relationship with G-d, and our life in perspective, and it reminds G-d of their merits to the extent that they can help us. That's why we also mention the forefathers when we daven (pray), for the same bilateral perspective.
In case you were wondering about the "recipe" for these sacrifices, Rashi explains that the bulls represent Avraham (who ran to get cattle to feed his guests), the ram represents Yitzchak (Isaac - the ram replaced him as a sacrifice), and the lambs represent Yakov (Jacob - separated the lambs in his camp). Referencing our forefathers has two distinct benefits: It helps us put the sacrifices, our relationship with G-d, and our life in perspective, and it reminds G-d of their merits to the extent that they can help us. That's why we also mention the forefathers when we daven (pray), for the same bilateral perspective.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Daily Aliya for Pinchas, Chamishi (5th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: From this point until the end of this week's reading,
the Torah details the various communal sacrifices which were offered in
the Tabernacle and Temple at designated times. This section discusses
the twice-daily "Tamid" sacrifice, as well as the additional sacrifices
offered on Shabbat and Rosh Chodesh (the first day of the Jewish
month).
If you're looking for juicy theories and life lessons, this Aliya is as bone dry as it gets (pun intended). However, two items stand out among the detailed descriptions of the sacrifices brought monthly. The first is the "re'ach nochoach" that was associated with these offerings. Literally it means "a spirit of satisfaction", and it refers to G-d pleasure in seeing that we did exactly what He asked us to do, despite it making little sense, because that's what makes Him happy. The second is the monthly sacrifice brought to atone for the sins we are not aware of. These two items clearly outline the relationship between two people, where one tries to please the other, and just in case they did anything wrong, apologizes for things they were unaware of. It's a beautiful blueprint for relationships.
If you're looking for juicy theories and life lessons, this Aliya is as bone dry as it gets (pun intended). However, two items stand out among the detailed descriptions of the sacrifices brought monthly. The first is the "re'ach nochoach" that was associated with these offerings. Literally it means "a spirit of satisfaction", and it refers to G-d pleasure in seeing that we did exactly what He asked us to do, despite it making little sense, because that's what makes Him happy. The second is the monthly sacrifice brought to atone for the sins we are not aware of. These two items clearly outline the relationship between two people, where one tries to please the other, and just in case they did anything wrong, apologizes for things they were unaware of. It's a beautiful blueprint for relationships.
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Daily Aliya for Pinchas, Revii (4th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: G‑d agreed to Tzlophchad's daughters' request. Moshe
is then instructed the laws of inheritance. Included in these laws is a
daughter's right to her father's estate if he does not leave any sons.
G‑d tells Moshe to climb to the top of Mount Abarim from where he would
see the Promised Land before he died. Moshe asks G‑d to appoint a
worthy individual to succeed him. G‑d instructs Moshe to endow Joshua
with some of his spiritual powers and publicly name him as his
successor.
When Moshe was shown the land he yearned to enter but was not allowed to, he had a choice. He could have been bitter, or happy that at least his people were finally about to enter the promised land. What was his main concern when he saw the land? That a worthy successor be chosen to lead the Jews into the land. And when G-d told Moshe to lay his hand on Yehoshua (Joshua), his successor, Moshe laid TWO hands, bestowed some of his wisdom and radiance upon Joshua, encouraged him to see all his people as individuals, and to lead by example. True leadership 101: Empowering a successor to succeed.
When Moshe was shown the land he yearned to enter but was not allowed to, he had a choice. He could have been bitter, or happy that at least his people were finally about to enter the promised land. What was his main concern when he saw the land? That a worthy successor be chosen to lead the Jews into the land. And when G-d told Moshe to lay his hand on Yehoshua (Joshua), his successor, Moshe laid TWO hands, bestowed some of his wisdom and radiance upon Joshua, encouraged him to see all his people as individuals, and to lead by example. True leadership 101: Empowering a successor to succeed.
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Daily Aliya for Pinchas, Shlishi (3rd Aliya)
Aliya Summary: As per G‑d's command, the land of Israel was to be
divided amongst all those who were counted in the census. The location
of each tribe's portion would be determined by lottery. The tribe of
Levi is now counted. There were 23,000 Levite males above the age of one
month. The daughters of Tzelophchad approached Moshe and stated that
their father had died leaving behind only daughters. They requested to
receive their father's portion in the land of Israel. Moshe relayed
their request to G‑d.
The daughters of Tzelophchad weren't the first active women in Jewish history, but their actions commanded respect because of the underlying desire to be a part of the land distribution, and the Jewish nation. Their argument was logical, respectful and fair. This is yet another example of a maturing people, having learned how not to argue for what they thought was fair, and finally making a point. We're seeing the growth of a nation, in numbers, experience and maturity.
The daughters of Tzelophchad weren't the first active women in Jewish history, but their actions commanded respect because of the underlying desire to be a part of the land distribution, and the Jewish nation. Their argument was logical, respectful and fair. This is yet another example of a maturing people, having learned how not to argue for what they thought was fair, and finally making a point. We're seeing the growth of a nation, in numbers, experience and maturity.
Monday, July 7, 2014
Daily Aliya for Pinchas, Sheni (2nd Aliya)
Aliya Summary: The Israelites are counted, and the totals are given
for each of the twelve tribes. The grand total of all the tribes
combined is 601,730. The tribe of Levi is not included in this census.
The very first Passuk (verse) says it all about this Aliya. The firstborn for Reuven was Chanoch, from the Chanochi family. The statement seems redundant, but it's really not. Rashi explains that outsiders questioned the Jews' ability to trace their ancestors, claiming that when they were in Egypt no one really knew who the children's fathers were because of immorality that must have occurred (between the Egyptian men and the Jewish women). G-d response to that was to add his name to every family, adding a "hey" to the beginning and a "yud" to the end, so Chanoch became "Hachanochi", demonstrating that G-d protected the Jews, and specifically the women in Egypt.
The very first Passuk (verse) says it all about this Aliya. The firstborn for Reuven was Chanoch, from the Chanochi family. The statement seems redundant, but it's really not. Rashi explains that outsiders questioned the Jews' ability to trace their ancestors, claiming that when they were in Egypt no one really knew who the children's fathers were because of immorality that must have occurred (between the Egyptian men and the Jewish women). G-d response to that was to add his name to every family, adding a "hey" to the beginning and a "yud" to the end, so Chanoch became "Hachanochi", demonstrating that G-d protected the Jews, and specifically the women in Egypt.
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Daily Aliya for Pinchas, Rishon (1st Aliya)
General Overview: Pinchas is rewarded for his bravery. A census of
the Israelites is taken. The daughters of Tzelophchad successfully argue
for a portion in the land of Israel. Joshua is ordained Moshe's
successor. G‑d relays to Moshe the details of all the holiday
sacrifices.
Aliya Summary: Last week's reading concluded with Moabite and Midianite women seducing Jewish men and enticing them to idol worship. At that point, Pinchas unilaterally executed a Jewish leader along with the Midianite princess with whom he was cohabiting. This week's reading opens with G‑d praising Pinchas, and rewarding his bravery by granting priesthood to him and his descendants. G‑d then commands the Jews to punish the Midianites by hounding and smiting them. The fulfillment of this command is described in next week's reading. G‑d commands Moses and Elazar the High Priest to conduct a census of all males over the age of twenty.
Aliya Summary: Last week's reading concluded with Moabite and Midianite women seducing Jewish men and enticing them to idol worship. At that point, Pinchas unilaterally executed a Jewish leader along with the Midianite princess with whom he was cohabiting. This week's reading opens with G‑d praising Pinchas, and rewarding his bravery by granting priesthood to him and his descendants. G‑d then commands the Jews to punish the Midianites by hounding and smiting them. The fulfillment of this command is described in next week's reading. G‑d commands Moses and Elazar the High Priest to conduct a census of all males over the age of twenty.
Friday, July 4, 2014
Daily Aliya for Balak, Shvii (7th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: Before leaving, Bilaam prophesies about the end of
days: "I see it, but not now; I behold it, but not soon. A star has gone
forth from Jacob, and a staff will arise from Israel which will crush
the princes of Moab and uproot all the sons of Seth..." He also speaks
about the eventual destruction of Esav, Amalek and Assyria. Following
Bilaam's unsuccessful attempt to curse the Jewish nation, Moabite and
Midianite women seduce many Jewish men. In the course of their
seduction, they also entice the Jewish man to worship the Baal Peor
deity. G‑d commands Mohss to execute the guilty people, and
simultaneously a lethal plague erupts amongst the Jews. A Jewish leader,
Zimri, publicly displays the Midianite princess with whom he was
consorting. Phinehas, Aaron's grandson, kills them both, and the plague
is halted.
Passuk (verse) 14 says "I'm leaving... but I'll advise you of what will happen to your people" (they'll be destroyed). Telling Balak that his people will be destroyed doesn't seem like advice at all. What he could have been telling him was that although you're ultimately doomed to fail and lose, if you want to succeed temporarily, baiting the Jews into immorality would work, and it did. Why tell him he's doomed to fail? I think Passuk 25 tells it all: "Bilaam got up, left, went home, and Balak went on his way". Balak going on his way sounds like he continued on his original path of attempting to destroy the Jews, regardless of his previous and now FUTURE failures. Truly a lost cause.
Passuk (verse) 14 says "I'm leaving... but I'll advise you of what will happen to your people" (they'll be destroyed). Telling Balak that his people will be destroyed doesn't seem like advice at all. What he could have been telling him was that although you're ultimately doomed to fail and lose, if you want to succeed temporarily, baiting the Jews into immorality would work, and it did. Why tell him he's doomed to fail? I think Passuk 25 tells it all: "Bilaam got up, left, went home, and Balak went on his way". Balak going on his way sounds like he continued on his original path of attempting to destroy the Jews, regardless of his previous and now FUTURE failures. Truly a lost cause.
Daily Aliya for Balak, Shishi (6th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: The entire process repeats itself once again, Balak
takes Bilaam to another place, hoping that Bilaam can curse the Jews
from there. For a third time they build altars and bring offerings, and
for a third time, only blessings issue from Bilaam's mouth: "How goodly
are your tents, O Jacob, your dwelling places, O Israel! ... G‑d, who
has brought them out of Egypt with the strength of His loftiness He
shall consume the nations which are his adversaries ... Those who bless
[them] shall be blessed, and those who curse [them] shall be cursed."
At this point, Balak despairs of accomplishing his goal, and sends
Bilaam on his way.
Two important concepts are demonstrated in this Aliya. First, the persistence of these two people to accomplish their goals is admirable, even if their goal itself isn't. Second, whereas when they first started the attempts it was Bilaam building the alters and trying to find a way to curse the Jews, now it is Balak trying different tactics to get it done. The two men strengthen each other's resolve to accomplish their goal, a concept very much a part of Judaism. We focus on community and gatherings, many of the Mitzvot (commandments) focusing on helping each other, and that's what not only makes each of us stronger by being around others, but it makes the collective "us" much greater than the sum of its parts.
Two important concepts are demonstrated in this Aliya. First, the persistence of these two people to accomplish their goals is admirable, even if their goal itself isn't. Second, whereas when they first started the attempts it was Bilaam building the alters and trying to find a way to curse the Jews, now it is Balak trying different tactics to get it done. The two men strengthen each other's resolve to accomplish their goal, a concept very much a part of Judaism. We focus on community and gatherings, many of the Mitzvot (commandments) focusing on helping each other, and that's what not only makes each of us stronger by being around others, but it makes the collective "us" much greater than the sum of its parts.
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Daily Aliya for Balak, Chamishi (5th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: Balak takes Bilaam to another location, hoping that
this new venue would be more inauspicious for the Jews. They again build
altars and offer sacrifices, and again G‑d dictates blessing for the
Jews which Bilaam repeats. "G‑d does not look at evil in Jacob, and has
seen no perversity in Israel; the L-rd, his G‑d, is with [Israel], and
he has the King's friendship..."
After Balak takes him to a different location, one where there might be weakness (he took him to the spot where Moshe would eventually die), Bilaam explains that he has no choice but to say what G-d tells him to say, and G-d instructed him to bless the Jews again. He then goes on to bless the Jews by saying that G-d does not see evil in Jacob, nor perversity in the Jews. How is this a blessing? It sounds more like a fact. But the blessing is that although we know evil and perversity does exist, G-d overlooks it long enough for us to correct our mistakes, demonstrating His love and friendship (Passuk 21: Rashi).
After Balak takes him to a different location, one where there might be weakness (he took him to the spot where Moshe would eventually die), Bilaam explains that he has no choice but to say what G-d tells him to say, and G-d instructed him to bless the Jews again. He then goes on to bless the Jews by saying that G-d does not see evil in Jacob, nor perversity in the Jews. How is this a blessing? It sounds more like a fact. But the blessing is that although we know evil and perversity does exist, G-d overlooks it long enough for us to correct our mistakes, demonstrating His love and friendship (Passuk 21: Rashi).
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Daily Aliya for Balak, Revii (4th Aliya)
Aliya Summary: Upon Bilaam's instructions, Balak builds seven altars
and offers sacrifices to G‑d. G‑d "chances" upon Bilaam, and dictates
to him the words he should repeat to Balak and his ministers: "From
Aram, Balak the king of Moab has brought me, from the mountains of the
east: 'Come, curse Jacob for me and come invoke wrath against Israel.'
How can I curse whom G‑d has not cursed, and how can I invoke wrath if
the L-rd has not been angered?..." Bilaam then proceeded to shower the
Israelites with beautiful blessings and praises. When Balak responds
angrily to the blessings, Bilaam reminds him that he can only say that
which G‑d tells him to say.
This is the origin of the bait-and-switch! Bilaam was brought in to curse the Jews, and instead praises them, boldly stating that he cannot curse those that have done nothing wrong to deserve curses. What? Did we not read over the last few weeks about how the Jews complained about their situation and wanting to go back to Egypt? This is the ultimate proof that G-d forgives the Jews for their misdeeds, because someone skilled at finding minute faults that would allow curses to take hold couldn't find any faults to do so to the Jews.
This is the origin of the bait-and-switch! Bilaam was brought in to curse the Jews, and instead praises them, boldly stating that he cannot curse those that have done nothing wrong to deserve curses. What? Did we not read over the last few weeks about how the Jews complained about their situation and wanting to go back to Egypt? This is the ultimate proof that G-d forgives the Jews for their misdeeds, because someone skilled at finding minute faults that would allow curses to take hold couldn't find any faults to do so to the Jews.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Daily Aliya for Balak, Shlishi (3rd Aliya)
Aliya Summary:: Bilaam leaves together with the Moabite dignitaries.
G‑d sends an angel with a drawn sword to block Bilaam's path. While
Bilaam couldn't see the angel, the she-donkey he was riding did, and
refused to move onwards, causing Bilaam to strike her. The donkey
miraculously speaks, admonishing Bilaam for striking her. Eventually,
G‑d "opens Bilaam's eyes," and he sees the angel. A conversation between
Bilaam and the angel ensues, wherein Bilaam is chastised for his
behavior towards his donkey, and again he is reminded only to say what
G‑d dictates to him. After this humbling episode, Bilaam arrives in Moab
where he is greeted by Balak.
If G-d gave Bilaam permission to go to Balak, why did He send an angel to stop him, and why was He angry that Bilaam was going (Passuk/Verse 22)? Midrash explains that Bilaam woke up early and saddled the donkey himself (unusual) because he hated the Jews so, and was excited at the possibility of being able to curse them. So even though he hadn't actually cursed the Jews, and even though G-d knew that he ultimately wouldn't, he was still wrong for intending to do something bad, and that's what G-d was angry about. Luckily, though, we don't get punished for improper acts unless we actually commit them.
If G-d gave Bilaam permission to go to Balak, why did He send an angel to stop him, and why was He angry that Bilaam was going (Passuk/Verse 22)? Midrash explains that Bilaam woke up early and saddled the donkey himself (unusual) because he hated the Jews so, and was excited at the possibility of being able to curse them. So even though he hadn't actually cursed the Jews, and even though G-d knew that he ultimately wouldn't, he was still wrong for intending to do something bad, and that's what G-d was angry about. Luckily, though, we don't get punished for improper acts unless we actually commit them.
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