Parshas Behar – Bechukosai (5770)

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Parshas Behar – Bechukosai (5770)
by Mordechai Dolinsky

Rashi explains in the first pasuk of Bechukosai – “Mitzvosai Tishmosru” is referring to fulfilling of the mitzvos, therefore bechukosai talaichu at the beginning of the pasuk is referring to the intensive toiling in Torah, delving into its depths.  We must understand what happened to the just simple studying of Torah for the learning of how to fulfill the mitzvos.  Perhaps we can understand this with an important principle from the Chasam Sofer.  The learning of Torah for the sake of information how to practice is actually part of the practice itself and not really considered the fulfillment of learning Torah for its own sake.

Bechuksai talaichu is a commandment for all of Klal Yisroel and not just for the special lomdai Torah and this puts a great responsibility on all of us.  Happy learning.

Have a good Shabbos.

Parshas Behar – Bechukosai (5769)

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Parshas Behar – Bechukosai (5769)
by Mordechai Dolinsky

At the beginning of Bechukosai Rashi spells out the program for all Klal Yisroel; a total commitment for intensive, intellectual dedication and devotion to undertaking serious Torah study.  It is imperative to be aware that this is a directive for all.  Hashem’s expectation of Klal Yisroel is absolute, total involvement in serious Torah study.  It is important to comprehend that this image and mindset is what is expected of our nation just as Shabbos observance and Tefilin.  Likewise it is expected of all serious, intensive Torah study program.

We have the most to gain since Torah study straightens our minds and brings light and clarity to all our endeavors.

Have a wonderful Shabbos.

Parshas Behar-Bechukosai (5767)

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Parshas Behar-Bechukosai (5767)
by Mordechai Dolinsky

In dealing with the issue of eved ivri in our parsha (25:39/40) it is very obviously very far from our concept of slavery, as the eved ivri is actually dealt with as a worker and special care must be taken not to lower his esteem.  Why, then, was this form of slavery looked down upon by the Torah?

What is really the difference between an eved ivri and a worker?  A slave, even an eved ivri, has made a commitment that harnesses him 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to his master; despite the fact that the intensity of his work and his self-esteem is as a plain worker.  We must focus a complete harnessing of our essence, energies and talents only to Hashem.  “Avodai heim v’lo avodimi l’avodim”.

Have a wonderful Shabbos.

Parshas Behar – Bechukosai (5766)

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Parshas Behar – Bechukosai (5766)
by Mordechai Dolinsky

The Medrash (33:1) quotes a famous Chazal that Rebbi Shimon ben Gamliel requested that his servant buy for him the best cut of meat.  He returned with a tongue.  He then requested the worst cut of meat and the servant again returned with a tongue, and explained that nothing is better than the tongue and nothing is worse.  Despite its simplicity there is tremendous depth in this Chazal.  There are many worldly pleasures that could bring a person pleasure but a person’s speech can bring to ultimate pleasure.  At the same time a person’s speech can cause the greatest pain.

At this time of sefiras haomer when one should have the sensitivity to upgrade his relationship to others, one should take special care to communicate properly with others.

Have a wonderful Shabbos.

Parshas Behar – Bechukosai (5762)

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Parshas Behar – Bechukosai (5762)
by Mordechai Dolinsky

The Medrash in our Sedra (34:1) enlightens us to the marvelous trait of an individual harnessing his mental capacities to figure out how to give tzedaka to someone who is in need but does not want to receive.  This is surely inspiring for us, living in a generation of insensitivity.

There are so many major events surrounding us, and it is imperative that we have the interest to seek their proper interpretation.

Have a wonderful Shabbos.