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LIVING WITH MOSHIACH, Parshat Va'etchanan
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LIVING WITH MOSHIACH
Weekly Digest About Moshiach
PARSHAT VA'ETCHANAN 5777
12 Menachem-Av, 5777
Aug. 4, 2017
SPECIAL FEATURE:
1. Shabbat Nachamu
2. Tu B'Av
*********************************************
* This week's issue of Living With Moshiach *
* is dedicated in loving memory of *
* Mrs. Aita Leah bas Reb Meir Michel *
* Stayer *
* Passed away on 29 Nissan, 5774 *
* * *
* May her Soul Merit Eternal Life *
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* This week's issue is sponsored in part by: *
* Holy Sparks - "http://www.holysparks.com" *
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* Dedicated to educating the public regarding the *
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Published Weekly By
Lubavitch Shluchim Conferences On The Moshiach Campaign,
Committee For The Blind
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5777
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* E-Mail: in...@torah4blind.org *
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* JEWISH CHILDREN: *
* Get your own letter in a Sefer Torah! *
* http://www.kidstorah.org *
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THIS PUBLICATION IS DEDICATED TO THE REBBE,
RABBI MENACHEM M. SCHNEERSON
OF LUBAVITCH
"I BELIEVE WITH COMPLETE FAITH IN THE ARRIVAL OF THE MOSHIACH.
"AND THOUGH HE MAY TARRY, I SHALL WAIT EACH DAY, ANTICIPATING
HIS ARRIVAL." Maimonides, Principles of the Faith, No. 12
*********************
* TABLE OF CONTENTS *
*********************
* Introduction.
* Customs Corner.
* The Weekly Torah Portion.
* The Rebbe's Prophecy.
* Reb Hillel Paritcher.
* Shabbat Nachamu.
* Moshiach Matters.
* Tu B'Av.
* Increase In Torah Study.
* It's All in the Planning.
* Winning Numbers.
* Time for Unity; Time for Strength!
* The Weekly Shabbat Calendar.
* "Let There Be Light" - The Jewish Women's Guide to Lighting
Shabbat Candles.
* Laws of Shabbat Candle Lighting for the Blind.
* Shabbat Candle Lighting Blessing.
* Moshiach Information Hotlines.
* Moshiach In The Air -- Electronic Media.
* Subscription Information for this Weekly Magazine:
Living With Moshiach.
****************
* INTRODUCTION *
****************
We are pleased to present, to the visually impaired and the
blind, the 1043rd issue of our weekly publication, Living
With Moshiach.
*
In this week's issue, we focus on:
1) One of the most famous and colorful Chabad Chasidim, Reb
Hillel Paritcher, whose yahrtzeit is on the 11th of Menachem-Av,
Thursday, August 3.
2) Shabbat Nachamu.
3) Tu B'Av, the 15th day of Menachem-Av, next Monday, August 7.
*
Our sincere appreciation to L'Chaim weekly publication,
published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, for allowing
us to use their material.
Also, many thanks to our new copy editor, Reb Benyomin Hoffman,
for his tireless efforts,.
and, many thanks to our former copy editor, Reb Mordechai
Staiman, of blessed memory ("http://www.torah4blind.org/staiman"),
for his tireless efforts.
*
It is our fervent hope that our learning about Moshiach and the
Redemption will hasten the coming of Moshiach, NOW!
Rabbi Yosef Y. Shagalov
Executive Director
Enlightenment For The Blind, Inc.
E-Mail:y...@torah4blind.org
5 Menachem-Av, 5777
Los Angeles, California
P.S.: As we are eagerly awaiting the immediate arrival of Moshiach,
at any moment, we have included the five blessings that
(according to many opinions) will be applicable when Moshiach
comes.
*************************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF *
* Horav Schneur Zalman Halevi *
* ben Horav Yitzchok Elchonon Halevi *
* Shagalov *
* Passed away on 21 Tamuz, 5766 *
* *
* Reb Dovid Asniel ben Reb Eliyahu *
* Ekman *
* Passed away on 5 Sivan - Erev Shavuot, 5765 *
* *
* Mrs. Devora Rivka bas Reb Yosef Eliezer *
* Marenburg *
* Passed away on the second day *
* of Rosh Chodesh Adar, 5766 *
* *
* Reb Yitzchok Moshe (Ian) ben Reb Dovid Asniel *
* Ekman (Santiago, Chile) *
* Passed away on 24 Shevat, 5769 *
* *
* May Their Souls Merit Eternal Life *
* *
* AND IN HONOR OF *
* Mrs. Esther Shaindel bas Fraidel Chedva *
* Shagalov *
* * *
* Dedicated by *
* Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Yitzchok and Gittel Rochel *
* Shagalov *
*************************************************
******************
* CUSTOMS CORNER *
******************
Are there special blessings that we will recite when Moshiach
comes?
According to many opinions there are five blessings that will be
applicable when Moshiach comes. [*]
#1
BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
GA'AL YISRAEL.
Translation:
Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who redeems Israel.
#2
BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
SHE-HECHE-YO-NU VE-KI-YE-MO-NU VE-HIGI-O-NU
LIZ-MAN HA-ZEH.
Translation:
Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who has granted us life, sustained us and enabled us
to reach this occasion.
#3
BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
SHE-CHA-LAK M'CHACH-MA-TO L'REI'AV.
Translation:
Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who has given wisdom to those who fear Him.
#4
BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
SHE-CHA-LAK M'KI-VODO L'REI'AV.
Translation:
Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who has given honor to those who fear Him.
#5
BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
CHA-CHAM HA-RA-ZIM.
Translation:
Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
the Wise One of secrets.
_______________
*. Adapted from "L'Chaim weekly" publication, Issue #1003,
published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, Brooklyn, NY.
"www.lchaimweekly.org".
***************************************
* THE WEEKLY TORAH PORTION *
* Adapted from the Works of the Rebbe *
***************************************
PARSHAT VA'ETCHANAN
In this week's Torah portion, Va'etchanan, Moses addresses G-d:
"O L-rd G-d," Moses opens his prayer, "You have begun to show Your
servant Your greatness and Your strong hand..." With these words,
Moses establishes that it wasn't until his generation that G-d
began to reveal His greatness in the world.
The Zohar asks how this can be possible. Many years before, it
points out, there was a great tzaddik -- righteous person -- named
Jacob, who was one of the three Jewish Patriarchs. In fact, Jacob
is called "the chosen" of the Forefathers, and he merited to see
many G-dly miracles. So how could G-d have first begun to show His
greatness only in Moses' time?
The Zohar answers its own question: "That which Moses had, was
had by no other human being: many thousands and tens of thousands
of Jews, etc."
In Jacob's time the Jewish people was very small in number, far
fewer than the several million who existed in Moses' generation.
From the "seventy souls" that went down to Egypt at the beginning
of the exile, by the time of the Exodus they had already multiplied
to 600,000 men between the ages of 20 and 60, not counting women
and children and men in other age groups.
It was not until Moses' generation, when the Jewish people had
become "great" also in number, and stood together in unity and
oneness, that the true "greatness" of G-d was manifested.
This contains a practical lesson for the Divine service of every
Jew: Every individual, regardless of age, must do everything he can
to strengthen Jewish unity and make the Jewish people more
cohesive. Every person must strive to increase his love for his
fellow Jew, and connect himself to as many Jews as possible.
This is one of the reasons we preface our daily prayers with the
words "I hereby accept upon myself the positive commandment of 'You
shall love your fellow as yourself.'" Before we ask G-d to fulfill
a personal request, we identify and connect ourselves to the
totality of the Jewish people.
Indeed, it is then that the "greatness" of the Jew is expressed.
A single Jew is not alone, nor is a single Jewish family or Jewish
community. Every Jew is connected to every other Jew, and to all
Jews throughout the generations.
As the Zohar explains, the process of showing G-d's "greatness,"
initiated by G-d in the generation of Moses, will reach its
culmination with the coming of Moshiach, who will redeem not only
the Jewish people but also the ENTIRE world. At that time we will
experience wonders and miracles far greater than those witnessed
during the Exodus, and indeed, incomparable to anything experienced
in history.
*******************************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR FRIEND AND COPY EDITOR *
* Reb Mordechai ben Reb Shaul *
* Staiman *
* Passed away on 22 Tamuz, 5763 *
* *
* May His Soul Merit Eternal Life *
*******************************************************
************************
* THE REBBE'S PROPHECY *
************************
The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson of Lubavitch, issued
a call that "THE TIME OF OUR REDEMPTION HAS ARRIVED!" and
"MOSHIACH IS ON HIS WAY!"
The Rebbe stressed that he is saying this AS A PROPHECY, and
asks us all to prepare ourselves for the Redemption, through
increasing acts of goodness and kindness.
LET US ALL HEED THE REBBE'S CALL.
______________
See "Living With Moshiach" Vol. 788-789:
http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5772/788-789.txt
*********************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR GRANDPARENTS,*
* *
* Reb Shmuel Pesach Ben Reb Yaakov Dovid *
* Passed away on 3 Tishrei, 5755 *
* *
* Mrs. Fraidel Chedvah Bas Reb Zev Wolf *
* Passed away on 4 Adar II, 5755 *
* Pais *
* *
* May Their Souls Merit Eternal Life *
* * *
* Dedicated by their grandchildren *
* Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Y. and Gittel Rochel *
* Shagalov *
*********************************************
************************
* REB HILLEL PARITCHER *
************************
Thursday, the 11th of Menachem-Av, August 3, is the yahrtzeit of
one of the most famous and colorful Chabad Chasidim, Reb Hillel
Paritcher.
Reb Hillel was born in 5555/1795 and was married before his bar
mitzvah (!). As he was still too young to don tefillin and could
only wear a tallit, he was called "Chol Hamoed" ("the Intermediate
Days of a Festival," when tefillin are not worn). By age 13 he had
already mastered the entire Talmud, and was fluent in Poskim
[halachic adjudicators] and Kabbalah. By age 15, he was expert in
the writings of the holy Arizal.
Originally a Chasid of Reb Mordechai of Chernobyl, he became a
Chabad Chasid the first time he opened the Tanya. His lifelong
dream was to meet the Alter Rebbe, the Tanya's author and the
founder of Chabad Chasidism, but this was not to be. For years Reb
Hillel trailed the Alter Rebbe across the Pale, but never caught up
to him.
One time he arrived in the city where the Alter Rebbe was
expected and hid under his bed. While waiting, he formulated in his
mind the question on Tractate Erachin that he would ask the Alter
Rebbe. When the Alter Rebbe entered the room, before Reb Hillel
could even emerge from his hiding place, the Alter Rebbe said in
his characteristic sing-song: "When a person has a question about
Erachin [literally 'assessments'], he must assess himself first..."
Reb Hillel fainted, and by the time he woke up the Alter Rebbe was
gone.
It wasn't until after the Alter Rebbe passed away that Reb
Hillel came to Lubavitch, where his son, Rabbi Dov Ber, the second
Rebbe of Chabad-Lubavitch, known as the Mitteler Rebbe, enjoined
him to "collect materiality [funds for charity] and sow
spirituality."
His most famous work, published posthumously, was Pelach
HaRimon. He is buried in Kharson.
May his memory be a blessing for us all.
***********************************
* SHABBAT NACHAMU *
* Based on the Works of the Rebbe *
***********************************
The first Shabbat after Tisha B'Av, is known as Shabbat Nachamu,
after the first word of this week's Haftorah, "nachamu nachamu ami"
(Console, console yourselves, My people). It is the first of the
seven "Sabbaths of Consolation."
Our Sages explain the twofold use of the word "console": "[The
Jewish people] committed a twofold sin...received a twofold
punishment...and are likewise comforted twofold." Elsewhere our
Sages comment, "Because its mitzvot are doubled, so too are its
consolations doubled."
Why this emphasis on the number two? How can a sin be twofold,
anyway? Moreover, what is meant by the statement that the Torah's
commandments are "doubled"?
The terms "twofold" and "double," refer to two different
dimensions. Everything in a Jew's life -- the Torah and its
commandants, the destruction of the Holy Temple and our consolation
-- reflects this duality, for everything in the world is composed
of both a physical and a spiritual component.
A Jew is a mixture of a corporeal body and spiritual soul, which
together form a complete being. A Jew is considered whole when both
aspects of his nature, body and soul, are working in tandem to
serve G-d. Mitzvot, too, are composed of these two dimensions.
Every mitzvah contains a spiritual component -- the intentions
behind it, and a physical component -- the way the mitzvah is
performed.
This is what our Sages referred to when stating that the Torah's
mitzvot are "doubled"; similarly, the "twofold sin" committed by
the Jewish people refers to the physical and spiritual aspects of
their transgression.
Accordingly, the punishment that followed -- the destruction of
the Holy Temple -- was both spiritual and physical. Had the
destruction been limited to the physical stones of the Temple, the
G-dly light and revelation it brought into the world would have
continued as before. However, the Jewish people "received a twofold
punishment," and were chastised with a concealment of G-dliness as
well.
The Holy Temple itself reflected this duality. The Temple was a
physical structure, possessing certain limited dimensions. Yet, the
G-dly light with which it was illuminated was infinite in nature.
Its destruction was therefore a double blow as it affected both of
these aspects.
When the Holy Temple is rebuilt in the messianic era our
consolation will be doubled because it will encompass both
dimensions: not only will the physical structure of the Temple be
restored, but its G-dly revelation will also return.
This double measure of completion will be brought about by King
Moshiach, who possesses a perfect "composite soul" containing all
the souls of the Jewish people, and is therefore able to bring
perfection to all creation.
********************
* MOSHIACH MATTERS *
********************
"The teachings of Chasidus," someone might argue, "are indeed
likened to gems and pearls, but I'm not one to chase after pearls;
I'm satisfied if my clothes aren't torn."
There is an answer to this argument: "We are on the threshold of
the Redemption, so we have to get ready for the coming of Moshiach,
when we will be privileged to enter the marriage canopy together
with the King of Kings, the Holy One, blessed be He. So we will
need pearls, too."
(The Rebbe)
***************************************
* TU B'AV *
* Adapted from the Works of the Rebbe *
***************************************
Monday, August 7, is Tu B'Av, the 15th day of the Hebrew month
of Av.
"There were no greater festivals in Israel than the 15th of Av
and Yom Kippur," the Mishnah tells us. What is so special about the
15th of Av that it is singled out together with Yom Kippur from all
the other festivals?
A number of special events throughout Jewish history took place
on the 15th of Av. They were:
1) The tribe of Benjamin was permitted once again to marry the
remainder of the Jewish people;
2) The Generation of the Desert ceased to die; they had
previously been condemned to perish in the desert because of
the sin of the spies;
3) Hoshea Ben Elah removed the blockades that the rebel Jeroboam
had set up to prevent the Jews from going to Jerusalem for
the festivals;
4) The cutting of the wood for the Holy Altar was completed;
5) Permission was granted by the Romans to bury the slain of
Betar.
These five events in themselves do not seem adequate enough
reason to make the 15th of Av a festival greater than any other.
There is another, all-encompassing reason.
There is another occasion of note in the month of Av, the ninth.
Tisha B'Av is the day when the two Holy Temples were destroyed,
signaling the start of the long and terrible exile we are still
enduring -- tragedies which were the result of the Jews'
transgressions. Tisha B'Av is the nadir of Jewish physical and
spiritual life.
But these tragedies are not without purpose. "Descent is for the
purpose of ascent," and the deeper the descent, correspondingly
greater will be the ascent that follows. It is specifically after
the awesome decline of Tisha B'Av that we can reach the loftiest
heights, heights that would otherwise be inaccessible.
The five festive events on the 15th of Av, then, are the
counterpart to the five tragic events of Tisha B'Av. The 15th of Av
transforms the evil of Tisha B'Av to the greatest good -- "there
were no greater festivals in Israel than the 15th of Av." The
ultimate goal of the tragedies of the month of Av is that they
should be transformed into a greater good -- the supreme festival
of the 15th of Av.
Emphasizing Love
The Second Holy Temple was destroyed because of causeless hatred
between Jews. The events of the 15th of Av, which are the
counterpart to Tisha B'Av, all express the concept of ahavat
Yisrael -- love of a Jew.
"The tribe of Benjamin were permitted once again to marry the
remainder of the Jewish people" is obviously an expression of
ahavat Yisrael. Indeed, the very announcement that all Jewry was
now united and allowed to come together is reason enough for a
festival.
"Permission was granted by the Romans to bury the slain of
Betar" and "The Generation of the Desert ceased to die" likewise
emphasize the love of Jews -- G-d's love, which was expressed in
these acts of kindness to His people.
"Hoshea Ben Elah removed the blockades that the rebel Jeroboam
had set up to prevent the Jews from going to Jerusalem for the
festivals" allowed the Ten Tribes of the kingdom of Israel to unite
with the other Two Tribes when they went to Jerusalem; again, the
idea of unity and ahavat Yisrael.
The wood they finished cutting on the 15th was necessary for the
offering of the sacrifices on the altar. And the altar, say our
Sages, "removes and feeds, makes beloved, atones"; "removes" means
"removes evil decrees from Israel," and "makes beloved" means
"makes beloved to their Father" -- again, the idea of fostering
love.
Charm And Beauty
In addition to the above reasons enumerated by the Talmud for
the importance of the 15th of Av -- all of which we have seen are
associated with ahavat Yisrael -- the Mishnah itself gives a
reason: "For on these days, the daughters of Jerusalem . . . came
out and danced in the vineyards, saying, 'Young man, lift up your
eyes and see what you are choosing for yourself. Do not set your
eyes on beauty, but set your eyes on good family. Charm is
deceptive and beauty is naught; a G-d-fearing woman is the one to
be praised....'"
The Talmud elaborates on this theme, and explains that "the
daughters of Jerusalem went out [dressed] in borrowed white
garments, so as not to embarrass those who had none." This is
clearly the idea of ahavat Yisrael.
The common theme behind all the reasons for the 15th of Av,
then, is ahavat Yisrael, the practice of which eradicates the cause
of the exile, and therefore automatically the exile itself.
***************************
* INCREASE IN TORAH STUDY *
***************************
- I -
On Monday, August 7, we will, G-d willing, celebrate the festive
day of Tu B'Av. On the 15th of Av the days begin to get shorter.
In times gone by, the onset of evening meant that the workday
was over. Our Sages, therefore, encourage us to use the longer
evenings for increased study of Jewish subjects.
The exile is often referred to as "night" and the Redemption, as
"dawn." Though we are certainly in the last few moments of the long
night of exile, it sometimes seems like the "night" is getting
longer rather than shorter. Thus, the above teaching of our Sages
is certainly appropriate.
Maimonides explains that in the era of the Redemption, the sole
occupation of the whole world will be to know G-d. The Rebbe
suggested, therefore, that as a preparation for that time, we
increase in our studies wherever possible. In addition, just 13
years ago, the Rebbe expressed the following thoughts on studying
matters specifically concerning Moshiach and the Redemption:
"Since Moshiach is about to come, a final effort is required
that will bring him. Every man, woman and child should increase
his/her Torah study in subjects that concern the Redemption.... One
should likewise upgrade one's meticulous observance of mitzvot,
particularly charity, 'which brings the Redemption near.'
"It would be proper for one to connect his additional charity
with his additional study of subjects connected with the
Redemption, by giving charity with the intent that it hasten the
Redemption. This intention in itself becomes part of learning
subjects connected with the Redemption -- for this is a real and
tangible study of the teaching of our Sages: 'Great is charity for
it brings the Redemption near.'
"The above-described study is not only a spiritual means of
securing the speedy advent of Moshiach; it is a way of beginning to
live one's life in the mood of Moshiach and the Redemption by
having one's mind permeated with an understanding of the concepts
of Moshiach and Redemption. From the mind, these concepts will then
find their way into the emotions. Ultimately, they will find
expression in one's actual conduct -- in thought, word and deed --
in a way befitting this unique era when we stand on the threshold
of the Redemption."
- II -
It states in the Talmud that starting from the Fifteenth of Av,
a Jew should increase the time he devotes to nighttime Torah study.
As a reward for our additional learning, G-d extends our lives and
grants us additional years.
Our Sages explained that the Fifteenth of Av is the date on
which the nights begin to be slightly longer and the days shorter.
Generally speaking, the daylight hours are reserved for work; at
night, people have more free time to spend as they please. The
shorter the day, the more hours are left over at night -- and
nighttime is especially conducive to learning Torah.
The length of the days and nights on earth is a variable; it
changes in accordance with the movement of the sun. The days grow
shorter and the nights longer on the Fifteenth of Av when the sun's
orbit begins to change.
The Talmud, however, provides us with the true reason for this
planetary phenomenon: to enable the Jew to spend more time learning
Torah! For the sake of the Jew, G-d alters the course of the sun in
the sky, a cosmological change of fantastic proportions!
How important it must be to G-d that we increase our study of
His Torah, to the point that He moves heaven and earth on our
behalf!
Consider the immense size of the earth, and the sun, which is
about 170 times as large. Ponder the sun's tremendous power and
energy, and the vast treasures that are hidden in the depths of the
earth. How many billions of people populate our planet? How many
animals, plants and inanimate objects? Just try to estimate the
volume of water that covers the earth, or the number of stones and
rocks that form its crust. In comparison with G-d, of course, all
these things are insignificant.
When we are mindful that the entire universe is orchestrated by
G-d for our sake, we will learn His Torah with eagerness and
enthusiasm, and express it in actual deed.
****************************
* IT'S ALL IN THE PLANNING *
****************************
You find the recipe, read it over, and scan your pantry to make
sure you have all of the ingredients you'll need. Then you glance
at your watch to see if there's enough time to complete the baking
project.
You've done the preliminary preparations. Now it's time to
gather the mixing bowl, measuring spoons and cups and other
supplies and start the actual process of creating a culinary
delight.
But, imagine baking a cake without those preliminary
preparations. You take out the mixer, spatula, measuring spoons and
cup. You start reading the recipe. One by one you add the
ingredients.
Oh no! There's only one egg left in the carton and you need
three. What can you substitute? You decide to borrow eggs from a
neighbor and hope that the half-mixed batter with the baking powder
already added will survive.
When you're finished, you get ready to spoon the batter into the
cupcake tins.
Oops! There aren't any cupcake liners. Scrap the idea of
cupcakes; you'll make a cake instead. You look at your watch
skeptically, knowing that cakes require more baking time than
cupcakes.
If you've been there and done that, you certainly know that a
little bit of preparation and thoughtful planning can save time and
aggravation in the long run.
There is a Jewish custom to wish each other in correspondence and
in conversations: "Ktiva vachatima tova" -- may you be written and
sealed for a good year -- starting from the fifteenth day of the
Hebrew month Av (Monday, August 7).
You may well be wondering, "Isn't the 15th of Av a little early to
start preparing for Rosh HaShanah? After all, it's over 6 weeks until
the New Year!"
(This year, Rosh HaShanah is celebrated on Thursday, September 21,
2017 and Friday, September 22, 2017.)
In answer, the upcoming Jewish month of Elul, which begins in
just a little over two weeks [Rosh Chodesh Elul is on Tuesday,
August 22, 2017, and Wednesday, August 23, 2017], is the month when
we prepare ourselves spiritually for Rosh HaShanah and the entire
year to follow. By the middle of the current month, the month
preceding Elul, we need to prepare ourselves for Elul! From the
fifteenth day of Av we do the preliminary preparations and beginning
in Elul we do the actual preparations for the new year.
So, far from being way too early, now is a good time to begin
making sure we have all of the right ingredients for the new year!
When Jewish people bless each other (for the upcoming year), it
is an expression of "ahavat Yisrael" -- love and concern of one Jew
for another. When wishing another person well is done with warmth
and sincerity, out of a deep feeling of love, it is an even
stronger demonstration of the mitzvah to "love one's neighbor as
oneself."
And the love and concern for another Jew expressed in our wishes
for a "Ktiva vachatima tova" hasten the realization of G-d's
blessings for the coming year.
To get the "recipe" just right for the coming year, plan ahead.
If we start now with preliminary preparations, we'll be surprised
at how smoothly and efficiently we'll be able to approach the New
Year.
*******************
* WINNING NUMBERS *
*******************
Nothing happens by chance. Whether you choose your own number for
your lottery ticket or let the computer do it for you, the fact that
you won (or most likely didn't win!) didn't happen by chance. It's
all part of G-d's Divine plan.
The idea that nothing happens by chance is a primary teaching of
the Baal Shem Tov, founder of Chasidism. He goes even further and says
that everything that happens in the world is for a purpose. The Baal
Shem Tov's most famous example of this precept is a leaf that falls
from a tree in order to shade an ant from the beating sun.
If this is true of a leaf falling from a tree, a blade of grass
swaying in the wind, a bird flying through the air, how much more so
is it true of the movement of the planets and stars in the
constellations that affect the lives of hundreds of billions of people
and an almost unlimited number of creatures on earth?
The Jewish calendar is reckoned according to the lunar cycle. It
is not by chance that 15 is a "winning number" in the Jewish calendar,
i.e., the day on which many of our Jewish holidays fall. On the
fifteenth day of the month, the moon is whole. It "shines" at its
fullest potential. And for the Jewish people, who are likened to the
moon that waxes and wanes, the wholeness of the moon is very
significant:
G-d has implanted a soul within each one of us. Chasidic philosophy
defines the soul as "an actual part of G-d." We are expected to help
our souls shine brightly, to their fullest potential, thereby lighting
up our surroundings.
The full moon on the fifteenth of the month teaches us that it's
not enough if only a part of us, half or three-quarters, shines.
We must illuminate fully and perfectly.
And the light we give off must shine in every way possible --
through luminous thoughts, with bright words, and by way of shining
actions. Our "moonshine" should light up our homes, offices,
communities, until we light up the whole world.
We are now in the Hebrew month of Av. From the fifteenth day of
Av on, the nights become longer. Jewish teachings explain that the
longer evenings should be used to delve into Torah. G-d even gives
us an incentive to study more Torah beginning on the fifteenth of Av,
saying that if we pursue Torah studies at night, G-d will "add on to
our lives"; He will give us more energy and enthusiasm than we had
before.
Nothing happens by chance. The seasons change and the nights
become longer for a reason: so that we can become more involved in
Jewish pursuits; so that we can learn how to help our soul shine;
so that we can get closer to G-d.
Pick a winning number this month by participating in an evening
Torah study class or lecture.
**************************************
* TIME FOR UNITY; TIME FOR STRENGTH! *
**************************************
The most important principle in the Torah is the protection of
Jewish life.
It's more important than Shabbat, more important than holidays,
even fasting on Yom Kippur.
Right now, in Israel, and everywhere, Jews must stand together
in unity and do whatever possible to protect Jewish life.
The Rebbe teaches that there are TEN important MITZVOT we can do
to protect life. See what you can do:
1) AHAVAT YISROEL: Behave with love towards another Jew.
2) LEARN TORAH: Join a Torah class.
3) Make sure that Jewish children get a TORAH TRUE EDUCATION.
4) Affix kosher MEZUZOT on all doorways of the house.
5) For men and boys over 13: Put on TEFILLIN every weekday.
6) Give CHARITY.
7) Buy JEWISH HOLY BOOKS and learn them.
8) LIGHT SHABBAT & YOM TOV candles. A Mitzvah for women and
girls.
9) Eat and drink only KOSHER FOOD.
10) Observe the laws of JEWISH FAMILY PURITY.
In addition the Rebbe urges that:
Every Jewish man, woman and child should have a letter written
for them in a SEFER TORAH.*
Every person should study either the Rambam's Yad Hachazakah --
Code of Jewish Law -- or the Sefer HaMitzvos.
Concerning Moshiach, the Rebbe stated, "The time for our
redemption has arrived!" Everyone should prepare themselves for
Moshiach's coming by doing random acts of goodness and kindness,
and by studying about what the future redemption will be like. May
we merit to see the fulfillment of the Rebbe's prophecy now!
_______________
*. There are several Torah scrolls being written to unite Jewish
people and protect Jewish life.
Letters for children can be purchased for only $1. Send your
Hebrew name and your mother's Hebrew name plus $1 to:
"Children's Sefer Torah," P.O. Box 8, Kfar Chabad, 72915, Israel
or via the Internet, at: http://www.kidstorah.org
***************************************
* In loving memory of *
* HORAV CHAIM YEHUDA KALMAN *
* Ben Horav Avrohom Yehoshua *
* Marlow *
* head of the Bet-Din (Rabbinical *
* Court) of Crown Heights, *
* Passed away, on Friday Morning, *
* 20 Sivan, 5760 (June 23, 2000) *
* *
* May His Soul Merit Eternal Life *
***************************************
*******************************
* THE WEEKLY SHABBAT CALENDAR *
*******************************
** JEWISH WOMEN AND GIRLS LIGHT SHABBAT CANDLES **
*******************************************************
* FOR LOCAL CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES: *
* consult your local Rabbi, Chabad-Lubavitch Center. *
* or: *
* http://www.candlelightingtimes.org/shabbos *
* *
* FOR A FREE CANDLE LIGHTING KIT: *
* contact your local Chabad-Lubavitch Center. *
* *
* FOR A LISTING OF THE CENTERS IN YOUR AREA: *
* http://www.chabadworld.net *
*******************************************************
>>>> Times Shown Are for Metro NY - NJ <<<<
FRIDAY, AUGUST 4, EREV SHABBAT PARSHAT VA'ETCHANAN:
* Light Shabbat Candles, [1] by 7:49 p.m.
SATURDAY, AUG. 5, SHABBAT PARSHAT VA'ETCHANAN:
* Shabbat Nachamu - see above.
* On Shabbat following the afternoon prayer, we read Chapter 4 of
Ethics of the Fathers (Pirkei Avot).
* Shabbat ends at NIGHTFALL, at 8:52 p.m.
_______________
1. The Shabbat candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset.
IT IS PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO
LIGHT THE CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET.
*********************************************
* May the Shabbat candles, of the millions *
* of Jewish women and girls around the *
* world, illuminate our way, until we very *
* soon see the fulfillment of G-d's promise *
* (as it is written in the Midrash *
* (Yalkut Shimoni, Beha'alotecha)): *
* "If you will observe the kindling of the *
* Shabbat lights, you will merit to see *
* the lights of the redemption of the *
* Jewish people," speedily in our days, *
* NOW! *
*********************************************
***************************************
* "LET THERE BE LIGHT" *
* - The Jewish Women's Guide *
* to Lighting Shabbat Candles *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/ltbl.htm *
***************************************
***********************************
* LAWS OF SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING *
* FOR THE BLIND *
***********************************
Edited by Rabbi Y. K. Marlow O.B.M.*
* A blind woman who lives alone should light her Shabbat
candle(s) with a blessing.
* If she is married to a non-visually impaired person, HER
HUSBAND SHOULD LIGHT THE SHABBAT CANDLES WITH THE BLESSING.
* If she is eating and lighting in the company of others who
are non-visually impaired, and they lit the Shabbat candles,
she should light her own Shabbat candle(s), BUT WITHOUT SAYING THE
BLESSING.
* (If at all possible, she should not be the last one to light
the Shabbat candle(s), so that she can be absolved by the latter's
blessing.)
_______________
*. Head of Bet-Din (Rabbinical Court) of Crown Heights.
************************************
* SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING BLESSING *
************************************
* First light the candles. Then spread your hands out around the
candles, drawing your hands inward in a circular motion three times
to indicate the acceptance of the sanctity of Shabbat. You then
cover your eyes and recite the following blessing:
BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
A-SHER KI-DE-SHO-NU BE-MITZ-VO-SOV VE-TZI-VO-NU
LE-HAD-LIK NER SHEL SHA-BOS KO-DESH.
Translation:
Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
who has sanctified us with His commandments, and
commanded us to kindle the light of the holy Shabbat.
* Uncover your eyes and behold the Shabbat lights.
* The time of lighting is considered especially propitious for
praying to G-d for health and happiness. The prayer is readily
acceptable because it is offered during the performance of this
great mitzvah of lighting Shabbat candles.
CAUTION:
The candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset. IT IS
PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO LIGHT THE
CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET.
*******************************************
* MOSHIACH INFORMATION HOTLINES *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/hotlines.htm *
*******************************************
******************************************
* MOSHIACH IN THE AIR - ELECTRONIC MEDIA *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/e-media.htm *
******************************************
********************************
* LIVING WITH MOSHIACH *
* Weekly Digest About Moshiach *
********************************
Annual subscription
(for the 18-point, large type edition)
$18.00.
For a one-year subscription,
make your check payable to:
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and mail it to:
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Due to the generosity of our donors, we offer free subscriptions
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****************************************************
* TO RECEIVE THIS PUBLICATION VIA INTERNET: *
* E-Mail: in...@torah4blind.org *
* or: *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/subs.htm *
****************************************************
================================================================
= End of Text: Living With Moshiach, Parshat Va'etchanan, 5777 =
================================================================
LIVING WITH MOSHIACH
Weekly Digest About Moshiach
PARSHAT VA'ETCHANAN 5777
12 Menachem-Av, 5777
Aug. 4, 2017
SPECIAL FEATURE:
1. Shabbat Nachamu
2. Tu B'Av
*********************************************
* This week's issue of Living With Moshiach *
* is dedicated in loving memory of *
* Mrs. Aita Leah bas Reb Meir Michel *
* Stayer *
* Passed away on 29 Nissan, 5774 *
* * *
* May her Soul Merit Eternal Life *
*********************************************
*************************************************
* This week's issue is sponsored in part by: *
* Holy Sparks - "http://www.holysparks.com" *
* * *
* Your premiere site for Jewish spirituality. *
* * *
* 5,777 Years of the Most Amazing Jewish Wisdom *
* recorded in calligraphy, especially for you! *
* * *
* Explore your potential: *
* Jewish Books, Art & Wisdom For Our Time. *
* FREE art! *
*************************************************
>> A Jewish Response To Terrorism <<
http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5762/269.htm
***************************************************
* Visit TruePeace.org *
* "http://www.truepeace.org" *
* Dedicated to educating the public regarding the *
* current situation in Israel, based on Torah *
* sources, with special emphasis on the opinion *
* and teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe *
***************************************************
Published Weekly By
Lubavitch Shluchim Conferences On The Moshiach Campaign,
Committee For The Blind
* * *
5777
****************************************************
* VISIT US ON THE WEB, AT: *
* http://www.torah4blind.org *
****************************************************
* TO RECEIVE THIS PUBLICATION VIA INTERNET: *
* E-Mail: in...@torah4blind.org *
* or: *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/subs.htm *
****************************************************
* OPERATION REFUAH: *
* http://www.operationrefuah.org *
****************************************************
* JEWISH CHILDREN: *
* Get your own letter in a Sefer Torah! *
* http://www.kidstorah.org *
****************************************************
* Kids! We Want YOU To Join *
* Tzivos Hashem (The Army of G-d) *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/tzivos-h.htm *
****************************************************
* MOSHIACH - CHILDREN'S PAGE *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/children/index.htm *
****************************************************
* THE SEVEN UNIVERSAL LAWS OF NOAH: *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/noahide.htm *
****************************************************
THIS PUBLICATION IS DEDICATED TO THE REBBE,
RABBI MENACHEM M. SCHNEERSON
OF LUBAVITCH
"I BELIEVE WITH COMPLETE FAITH IN THE ARRIVAL OF THE MOSHIACH.
"AND THOUGH HE MAY TARRY, I SHALL WAIT EACH DAY, ANTICIPATING
HIS ARRIVAL." Maimonides, Principles of the Faith, No. 12
*********************
* TABLE OF CONTENTS *
*********************
* Introduction.
* Customs Corner.
* The Weekly Torah Portion.
* The Rebbe's Prophecy.
* Reb Hillel Paritcher.
* Shabbat Nachamu.
* Moshiach Matters.
* Tu B'Av.
* Increase In Torah Study.
* It's All in the Planning.
* Winning Numbers.
* Time for Unity; Time for Strength!
* The Weekly Shabbat Calendar.
* "Let There Be Light" - The Jewish Women's Guide to Lighting
Shabbat Candles.
* Laws of Shabbat Candle Lighting for the Blind.
* Shabbat Candle Lighting Blessing.
* Moshiach Information Hotlines.
* Moshiach In The Air -- Electronic Media.
* Subscription Information for this Weekly Magazine:
Living With Moshiach.
****************
* INTRODUCTION *
****************
We are pleased to present, to the visually impaired and the
blind, the 1043rd issue of our weekly publication, Living
With Moshiach.
*
In this week's issue, we focus on:
1) One of the most famous and colorful Chabad Chasidim, Reb
Hillel Paritcher, whose yahrtzeit is on the 11th of Menachem-Av,
Thursday, August 3.
2) Shabbat Nachamu.
3) Tu B'Av, the 15th day of Menachem-Av, next Monday, August 7.
*
Our sincere appreciation to L'Chaim weekly publication,
published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, for allowing
us to use their material.
Also, many thanks to our new copy editor, Reb Benyomin Hoffman,
for his tireless efforts,.
and, many thanks to our former copy editor, Reb Mordechai
Staiman, of blessed memory ("http://www.torah4blind.org/staiman"),
for his tireless efforts.
*
It is our fervent hope that our learning about Moshiach and the
Redemption will hasten the coming of Moshiach, NOW!
Rabbi Yosef Y. Shagalov
Executive Director
Enlightenment For The Blind, Inc.
E-Mail:y...@torah4blind.org
5 Menachem-Av, 5777
Los Angeles, California
P.S.: As we are eagerly awaiting the immediate arrival of Moshiach,
at any moment, we have included the five blessings that
(according to many opinions) will be applicable when Moshiach
comes.
*************************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF *
* Horav Schneur Zalman Halevi *
* ben Horav Yitzchok Elchonon Halevi *
* Shagalov *
* Passed away on 21 Tamuz, 5766 *
* *
* Reb Dovid Asniel ben Reb Eliyahu *
* Ekman *
* Passed away on 5 Sivan - Erev Shavuot, 5765 *
* *
* Mrs. Devora Rivka bas Reb Yosef Eliezer *
* Marenburg *
* Passed away on the second day *
* of Rosh Chodesh Adar, 5766 *
* *
* Reb Yitzchok Moshe (Ian) ben Reb Dovid Asniel *
* Ekman (Santiago, Chile) *
* Passed away on 24 Shevat, 5769 *
* *
* May Their Souls Merit Eternal Life *
* *
* AND IN HONOR OF *
* Mrs. Esther Shaindel bas Fraidel Chedva *
* Shagalov *
* * *
* Dedicated by *
* Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Yitzchok and Gittel Rochel *
* Shagalov *
*************************************************
******************
* CUSTOMS CORNER *
******************
Are there special blessings that we will recite when Moshiach
comes?
According to many opinions there are five blessings that will be
applicable when Moshiach comes. [*]
#1
BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
GA'AL YISRAEL.
Translation:
Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who redeems Israel.
#2
BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
SHE-HECHE-YO-NU VE-KI-YE-MO-NU VE-HIGI-O-NU
LIZ-MAN HA-ZEH.
Translation:
Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who has granted us life, sustained us and enabled us
to reach this occasion.
#3
BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
SHE-CHA-LAK M'CHACH-MA-TO L'REI'AV.
Translation:
Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who has given wisdom to those who fear Him.
#4
BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
SHE-CHA-LAK M'KI-VODO L'REI'AV.
Translation:
Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who has given honor to those who fear Him.
#5
BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
CHA-CHAM HA-RA-ZIM.
Translation:
Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
the Wise One of secrets.
_______________
*. Adapted from "L'Chaim weekly" publication, Issue #1003,
published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, Brooklyn, NY.
"www.lchaimweekly.org".
***************************************
* THE WEEKLY TORAH PORTION *
* Adapted from the Works of the Rebbe *
***************************************
PARSHAT VA'ETCHANAN
In this week's Torah portion, Va'etchanan, Moses addresses G-d:
"O L-rd G-d," Moses opens his prayer, "You have begun to show Your
servant Your greatness and Your strong hand..." With these words,
Moses establishes that it wasn't until his generation that G-d
began to reveal His greatness in the world.
The Zohar asks how this can be possible. Many years before, it
points out, there was a great tzaddik -- righteous person -- named
Jacob, who was one of the three Jewish Patriarchs. In fact, Jacob
is called "the chosen" of the Forefathers, and he merited to see
many G-dly miracles. So how could G-d have first begun to show His
greatness only in Moses' time?
The Zohar answers its own question: "That which Moses had, was
had by no other human being: many thousands and tens of thousands
of Jews, etc."
In Jacob's time the Jewish people was very small in number, far
fewer than the several million who existed in Moses' generation.
From the "seventy souls" that went down to Egypt at the beginning
of the exile, by the time of the Exodus they had already multiplied
to 600,000 men between the ages of 20 and 60, not counting women
and children and men in other age groups.
It was not until Moses' generation, when the Jewish people had
become "great" also in number, and stood together in unity and
oneness, that the true "greatness" of G-d was manifested.
This contains a practical lesson for the Divine service of every
Jew: Every individual, regardless of age, must do everything he can
to strengthen Jewish unity and make the Jewish people more
cohesive. Every person must strive to increase his love for his
fellow Jew, and connect himself to as many Jews as possible.
This is one of the reasons we preface our daily prayers with the
words "I hereby accept upon myself the positive commandment of 'You
shall love your fellow as yourself.'" Before we ask G-d to fulfill
a personal request, we identify and connect ourselves to the
totality of the Jewish people.
Indeed, it is then that the "greatness" of the Jew is expressed.
A single Jew is not alone, nor is a single Jewish family or Jewish
community. Every Jew is connected to every other Jew, and to all
Jews throughout the generations.
As the Zohar explains, the process of showing G-d's "greatness,"
initiated by G-d in the generation of Moses, will reach its
culmination with the coming of Moshiach, who will redeem not only
the Jewish people but also the ENTIRE world. At that time we will
experience wonders and miracles far greater than those witnessed
during the Exodus, and indeed, incomparable to anything experienced
in history.
*******************************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR FRIEND AND COPY EDITOR *
* Reb Mordechai ben Reb Shaul *
* Staiman *
* Passed away on 22 Tamuz, 5763 *
* *
* May His Soul Merit Eternal Life *
*******************************************************
************************
* THE REBBE'S PROPHECY *
************************
The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson of Lubavitch, issued
a call that "THE TIME OF OUR REDEMPTION HAS ARRIVED!" and
"MOSHIACH IS ON HIS WAY!"
The Rebbe stressed that he is saying this AS A PROPHECY, and
asks us all to prepare ourselves for the Redemption, through
increasing acts of goodness and kindness.
LET US ALL HEED THE REBBE'S CALL.
______________
See "Living With Moshiach" Vol. 788-789:
http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5772/788-789.txt
*********************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR GRANDPARENTS,*
* *
* Reb Shmuel Pesach Ben Reb Yaakov Dovid *
* Passed away on 3 Tishrei, 5755 *
* *
* Mrs. Fraidel Chedvah Bas Reb Zev Wolf *
* Passed away on 4 Adar II, 5755 *
* Pais *
* *
* May Their Souls Merit Eternal Life *
* * *
* Dedicated by their grandchildren *
* Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Y. and Gittel Rochel *
* Shagalov *
*********************************************
************************
* REB HILLEL PARITCHER *
************************
Thursday, the 11th of Menachem-Av, August 3, is the yahrtzeit of
one of the most famous and colorful Chabad Chasidim, Reb Hillel
Paritcher.
Reb Hillel was born in 5555/1795 and was married before his bar
mitzvah (!). As he was still too young to don tefillin and could
only wear a tallit, he was called "Chol Hamoed" ("the Intermediate
Days of a Festival," when tefillin are not worn). By age 13 he had
already mastered the entire Talmud, and was fluent in Poskim
[halachic adjudicators] and Kabbalah. By age 15, he was expert in
the writings of the holy Arizal.
Originally a Chasid of Reb Mordechai of Chernobyl, he became a
Chabad Chasid the first time he opened the Tanya. His lifelong
dream was to meet the Alter Rebbe, the Tanya's author and the
founder of Chabad Chasidism, but this was not to be. For years Reb
Hillel trailed the Alter Rebbe across the Pale, but never caught up
to him.
One time he arrived in the city where the Alter Rebbe was
expected and hid under his bed. While waiting, he formulated in his
mind the question on Tractate Erachin that he would ask the Alter
Rebbe. When the Alter Rebbe entered the room, before Reb Hillel
could even emerge from his hiding place, the Alter Rebbe said in
his characteristic sing-song: "When a person has a question about
Erachin [literally 'assessments'], he must assess himself first..."
Reb Hillel fainted, and by the time he woke up the Alter Rebbe was
gone.
It wasn't until after the Alter Rebbe passed away that Reb
Hillel came to Lubavitch, where his son, Rabbi Dov Ber, the second
Rebbe of Chabad-Lubavitch, known as the Mitteler Rebbe, enjoined
him to "collect materiality [funds for charity] and sow
spirituality."
His most famous work, published posthumously, was Pelach
HaRimon. He is buried in Kharson.
May his memory be a blessing for us all.
***********************************
* SHABBAT NACHAMU *
* Based on the Works of the Rebbe *
***********************************
The first Shabbat after Tisha B'Av, is known as Shabbat Nachamu,
after the first word of this week's Haftorah, "nachamu nachamu ami"
(Console, console yourselves, My people). It is the first of the
seven "Sabbaths of Consolation."
Our Sages explain the twofold use of the word "console": "[The
Jewish people] committed a twofold sin...received a twofold
punishment...and are likewise comforted twofold." Elsewhere our
Sages comment, "Because its mitzvot are doubled, so too are its
consolations doubled."
Why this emphasis on the number two? How can a sin be twofold,
anyway? Moreover, what is meant by the statement that the Torah's
commandments are "doubled"?
The terms "twofold" and "double," refer to two different
dimensions. Everything in a Jew's life -- the Torah and its
commandants, the destruction of the Holy Temple and our consolation
-- reflects this duality, for everything in the world is composed
of both a physical and a spiritual component.
A Jew is a mixture of a corporeal body and spiritual soul, which
together form a complete being. A Jew is considered whole when both
aspects of his nature, body and soul, are working in tandem to
serve G-d. Mitzvot, too, are composed of these two dimensions.
Every mitzvah contains a spiritual component -- the intentions
behind it, and a physical component -- the way the mitzvah is
performed.
This is what our Sages referred to when stating that the Torah's
mitzvot are "doubled"; similarly, the "twofold sin" committed by
the Jewish people refers to the physical and spiritual aspects of
their transgression.
Accordingly, the punishment that followed -- the destruction of
the Holy Temple -- was both spiritual and physical. Had the
destruction been limited to the physical stones of the Temple, the
G-dly light and revelation it brought into the world would have
continued as before. However, the Jewish people "received a twofold
punishment," and were chastised with a concealment of G-dliness as
well.
The Holy Temple itself reflected this duality. The Temple was a
physical structure, possessing certain limited dimensions. Yet, the
G-dly light with which it was illuminated was infinite in nature.
Its destruction was therefore a double blow as it affected both of
these aspects.
When the Holy Temple is rebuilt in the messianic era our
consolation will be doubled because it will encompass both
dimensions: not only will the physical structure of the Temple be
restored, but its G-dly revelation will also return.
This double measure of completion will be brought about by King
Moshiach, who possesses a perfect "composite soul" containing all
the souls of the Jewish people, and is therefore able to bring
perfection to all creation.
********************
* MOSHIACH MATTERS *
********************
"The teachings of Chasidus," someone might argue, "are indeed
likened to gems and pearls, but I'm not one to chase after pearls;
I'm satisfied if my clothes aren't torn."
There is an answer to this argument: "We are on the threshold of
the Redemption, so we have to get ready for the coming of Moshiach,
when we will be privileged to enter the marriage canopy together
with the King of Kings, the Holy One, blessed be He. So we will
need pearls, too."
(The Rebbe)
***************************************
* TU B'AV *
* Adapted from the Works of the Rebbe *
***************************************
Monday, August 7, is Tu B'Av, the 15th day of the Hebrew month
of Av.
"There were no greater festivals in Israel than the 15th of Av
and Yom Kippur," the Mishnah tells us. What is so special about the
15th of Av that it is singled out together with Yom Kippur from all
the other festivals?
A number of special events throughout Jewish history took place
on the 15th of Av. They were:
1) The tribe of Benjamin was permitted once again to marry the
remainder of the Jewish people;
2) The Generation of the Desert ceased to die; they had
previously been condemned to perish in the desert because of
the sin of the spies;
3) Hoshea Ben Elah removed the blockades that the rebel Jeroboam
had set up to prevent the Jews from going to Jerusalem for
the festivals;
4) The cutting of the wood for the Holy Altar was completed;
5) Permission was granted by the Romans to bury the slain of
Betar.
These five events in themselves do not seem adequate enough
reason to make the 15th of Av a festival greater than any other.
There is another, all-encompassing reason.
There is another occasion of note in the month of Av, the ninth.
Tisha B'Av is the day when the two Holy Temples were destroyed,
signaling the start of the long and terrible exile we are still
enduring -- tragedies which were the result of the Jews'
transgressions. Tisha B'Av is the nadir of Jewish physical and
spiritual life.
But these tragedies are not without purpose. "Descent is for the
purpose of ascent," and the deeper the descent, correspondingly
greater will be the ascent that follows. It is specifically after
the awesome decline of Tisha B'Av that we can reach the loftiest
heights, heights that would otherwise be inaccessible.
The five festive events on the 15th of Av, then, are the
counterpart to the five tragic events of Tisha B'Av. The 15th of Av
transforms the evil of Tisha B'Av to the greatest good -- "there
were no greater festivals in Israel than the 15th of Av." The
ultimate goal of the tragedies of the month of Av is that they
should be transformed into a greater good -- the supreme festival
of the 15th of Av.
Emphasizing Love
The Second Holy Temple was destroyed because of causeless hatred
between Jews. The events of the 15th of Av, which are the
counterpart to Tisha B'Av, all express the concept of ahavat
Yisrael -- love of a Jew.
"The tribe of Benjamin were permitted once again to marry the
remainder of the Jewish people" is obviously an expression of
ahavat Yisrael. Indeed, the very announcement that all Jewry was
now united and allowed to come together is reason enough for a
festival.
"Permission was granted by the Romans to bury the slain of
Betar" and "The Generation of the Desert ceased to die" likewise
emphasize the love of Jews -- G-d's love, which was expressed in
these acts of kindness to His people.
"Hoshea Ben Elah removed the blockades that the rebel Jeroboam
had set up to prevent the Jews from going to Jerusalem for the
festivals" allowed the Ten Tribes of the kingdom of Israel to unite
with the other Two Tribes when they went to Jerusalem; again, the
idea of unity and ahavat Yisrael.
The wood they finished cutting on the 15th was necessary for the
offering of the sacrifices on the altar. And the altar, say our
Sages, "removes and feeds, makes beloved, atones"; "removes" means
"removes evil decrees from Israel," and "makes beloved" means
"makes beloved to their Father" -- again, the idea of fostering
love.
Charm And Beauty
In addition to the above reasons enumerated by the Talmud for
the importance of the 15th of Av -- all of which we have seen are
associated with ahavat Yisrael -- the Mishnah itself gives a
reason: "For on these days, the daughters of Jerusalem . . . came
out and danced in the vineyards, saying, 'Young man, lift up your
eyes and see what you are choosing for yourself. Do not set your
eyes on beauty, but set your eyes on good family. Charm is
deceptive and beauty is naught; a G-d-fearing woman is the one to
be praised....'"
The Talmud elaborates on this theme, and explains that "the
daughters of Jerusalem went out [dressed] in borrowed white
garments, so as not to embarrass those who had none." This is
clearly the idea of ahavat Yisrael.
The common theme behind all the reasons for the 15th of Av,
then, is ahavat Yisrael, the practice of which eradicates the cause
of the exile, and therefore automatically the exile itself.
***************************
* INCREASE IN TORAH STUDY *
***************************
- I -
On Monday, August 7, we will, G-d willing, celebrate the festive
day of Tu B'Av. On the 15th of Av the days begin to get shorter.
In times gone by, the onset of evening meant that the workday
was over. Our Sages, therefore, encourage us to use the longer
evenings for increased study of Jewish subjects.
The exile is often referred to as "night" and the Redemption, as
"dawn." Though we are certainly in the last few moments of the long
night of exile, it sometimes seems like the "night" is getting
longer rather than shorter. Thus, the above teaching of our Sages
is certainly appropriate.
Maimonides explains that in the era of the Redemption, the sole
occupation of the whole world will be to know G-d. The Rebbe
suggested, therefore, that as a preparation for that time, we
increase in our studies wherever possible. In addition, just 13
years ago, the Rebbe expressed the following thoughts on studying
matters specifically concerning Moshiach and the Redemption:
"Since Moshiach is about to come, a final effort is required
that will bring him. Every man, woman and child should increase
his/her Torah study in subjects that concern the Redemption.... One
should likewise upgrade one's meticulous observance of mitzvot,
particularly charity, 'which brings the Redemption near.'
"It would be proper for one to connect his additional charity
with his additional study of subjects connected with the
Redemption, by giving charity with the intent that it hasten the
Redemption. This intention in itself becomes part of learning
subjects connected with the Redemption -- for this is a real and
tangible study of the teaching of our Sages: 'Great is charity for
it brings the Redemption near.'
"The above-described study is not only a spiritual means of
securing the speedy advent of Moshiach; it is a way of beginning to
live one's life in the mood of Moshiach and the Redemption by
having one's mind permeated with an understanding of the concepts
of Moshiach and Redemption. From the mind, these concepts will then
find their way into the emotions. Ultimately, they will find
expression in one's actual conduct -- in thought, word and deed --
in a way befitting this unique era when we stand on the threshold
of the Redemption."
- II -
It states in the Talmud that starting from the Fifteenth of Av,
a Jew should increase the time he devotes to nighttime Torah study.
As a reward for our additional learning, G-d extends our lives and
grants us additional years.
Our Sages explained that the Fifteenth of Av is the date on
which the nights begin to be slightly longer and the days shorter.
Generally speaking, the daylight hours are reserved for work; at
night, people have more free time to spend as they please. The
shorter the day, the more hours are left over at night -- and
nighttime is especially conducive to learning Torah.
The length of the days and nights on earth is a variable; it
changes in accordance with the movement of the sun. The days grow
shorter and the nights longer on the Fifteenth of Av when the sun's
orbit begins to change.
The Talmud, however, provides us with the true reason for this
planetary phenomenon: to enable the Jew to spend more time learning
Torah! For the sake of the Jew, G-d alters the course of the sun in
the sky, a cosmological change of fantastic proportions!
How important it must be to G-d that we increase our study of
His Torah, to the point that He moves heaven and earth on our
behalf!
Consider the immense size of the earth, and the sun, which is
about 170 times as large. Ponder the sun's tremendous power and
energy, and the vast treasures that are hidden in the depths of the
earth. How many billions of people populate our planet? How many
animals, plants and inanimate objects? Just try to estimate the
volume of water that covers the earth, or the number of stones and
rocks that form its crust. In comparison with G-d, of course, all
these things are insignificant.
When we are mindful that the entire universe is orchestrated by
G-d for our sake, we will learn His Torah with eagerness and
enthusiasm, and express it in actual deed.
****************************
* IT'S ALL IN THE PLANNING *
****************************
You find the recipe, read it over, and scan your pantry to make
sure you have all of the ingredients you'll need. Then you glance
at your watch to see if there's enough time to complete the baking
project.
You've done the preliminary preparations. Now it's time to
gather the mixing bowl, measuring spoons and cups and other
supplies and start the actual process of creating a culinary
delight.
But, imagine baking a cake without those preliminary
preparations. You take out the mixer, spatula, measuring spoons and
cup. You start reading the recipe. One by one you add the
ingredients.
Oh no! There's only one egg left in the carton and you need
three. What can you substitute? You decide to borrow eggs from a
neighbor and hope that the half-mixed batter with the baking powder
already added will survive.
When you're finished, you get ready to spoon the batter into the
cupcake tins.
Oops! There aren't any cupcake liners. Scrap the idea of
cupcakes; you'll make a cake instead. You look at your watch
skeptically, knowing that cakes require more baking time than
cupcakes.
If you've been there and done that, you certainly know that a
little bit of preparation and thoughtful planning can save time and
aggravation in the long run.
There is a Jewish custom to wish each other in correspondence and
in conversations: "Ktiva vachatima tova" -- may you be written and
sealed for a good year -- starting from the fifteenth day of the
Hebrew month Av (Monday, August 7).
You may well be wondering, "Isn't the 15th of Av a little early to
start preparing for Rosh HaShanah? After all, it's over 6 weeks until
the New Year!"
(This year, Rosh HaShanah is celebrated on Thursday, September 21,
2017 and Friday, September 22, 2017.)
In answer, the upcoming Jewish month of Elul, which begins in
just a little over two weeks [Rosh Chodesh Elul is on Tuesday,
August 22, 2017, and Wednesday, August 23, 2017], is the month when
we prepare ourselves spiritually for Rosh HaShanah and the entire
year to follow. By the middle of the current month, the month
preceding Elul, we need to prepare ourselves for Elul! From the
fifteenth day of Av we do the preliminary preparations and beginning
in Elul we do the actual preparations for the new year.
So, far from being way too early, now is a good time to begin
making sure we have all of the right ingredients for the new year!
When Jewish people bless each other (for the upcoming year), it
is an expression of "ahavat Yisrael" -- love and concern of one Jew
for another. When wishing another person well is done with warmth
and sincerity, out of a deep feeling of love, it is an even
stronger demonstration of the mitzvah to "love one's neighbor as
oneself."
And the love and concern for another Jew expressed in our wishes
for a "Ktiva vachatima tova" hasten the realization of G-d's
blessings for the coming year.
To get the "recipe" just right for the coming year, plan ahead.
If we start now with preliminary preparations, we'll be surprised
at how smoothly and efficiently we'll be able to approach the New
Year.
*******************
* WINNING NUMBERS *
*******************
Nothing happens by chance. Whether you choose your own number for
your lottery ticket or let the computer do it for you, the fact that
you won (or most likely didn't win!) didn't happen by chance. It's
all part of G-d's Divine plan.
The idea that nothing happens by chance is a primary teaching of
the Baal Shem Tov, founder of Chasidism. He goes even further and says
that everything that happens in the world is for a purpose. The Baal
Shem Tov's most famous example of this precept is a leaf that falls
from a tree in order to shade an ant from the beating sun.
If this is true of a leaf falling from a tree, a blade of grass
swaying in the wind, a bird flying through the air, how much more so
is it true of the movement of the planets and stars in the
constellations that affect the lives of hundreds of billions of people
and an almost unlimited number of creatures on earth?
The Jewish calendar is reckoned according to the lunar cycle. It
is not by chance that 15 is a "winning number" in the Jewish calendar,
i.e., the day on which many of our Jewish holidays fall. On the
fifteenth day of the month, the moon is whole. It "shines" at its
fullest potential. And for the Jewish people, who are likened to the
moon that waxes and wanes, the wholeness of the moon is very
significant:
G-d has implanted a soul within each one of us. Chasidic philosophy
defines the soul as "an actual part of G-d." We are expected to help
our souls shine brightly, to their fullest potential, thereby lighting
up our surroundings.
The full moon on the fifteenth of the month teaches us that it's
not enough if only a part of us, half or three-quarters, shines.
We must illuminate fully and perfectly.
And the light we give off must shine in every way possible --
through luminous thoughts, with bright words, and by way of shining
actions. Our "moonshine" should light up our homes, offices,
communities, until we light up the whole world.
We are now in the Hebrew month of Av. From the fifteenth day of
Av on, the nights become longer. Jewish teachings explain that the
longer evenings should be used to delve into Torah. G-d even gives
us an incentive to study more Torah beginning on the fifteenth of Av,
saying that if we pursue Torah studies at night, G-d will "add on to
our lives"; He will give us more energy and enthusiasm than we had
before.
Nothing happens by chance. The seasons change and the nights
become longer for a reason: so that we can become more involved in
Jewish pursuits; so that we can learn how to help our soul shine;
so that we can get closer to G-d.
Pick a winning number this month by participating in an evening
Torah study class or lecture.
**************************************
* TIME FOR UNITY; TIME FOR STRENGTH! *
**************************************
The most important principle in the Torah is the protection of
Jewish life.
It's more important than Shabbat, more important than holidays,
even fasting on Yom Kippur.
Right now, in Israel, and everywhere, Jews must stand together
in unity and do whatever possible to protect Jewish life.
The Rebbe teaches that there are TEN important MITZVOT we can do
to protect life. See what you can do:
1) AHAVAT YISROEL: Behave with love towards another Jew.
2) LEARN TORAH: Join a Torah class.
3) Make sure that Jewish children get a TORAH TRUE EDUCATION.
4) Affix kosher MEZUZOT on all doorways of the house.
5) For men and boys over 13: Put on TEFILLIN every weekday.
6) Give CHARITY.
7) Buy JEWISH HOLY BOOKS and learn them.
8) LIGHT SHABBAT & YOM TOV candles. A Mitzvah for women and
girls.
9) Eat and drink only KOSHER FOOD.
10) Observe the laws of JEWISH FAMILY PURITY.
In addition the Rebbe urges that:
Every Jewish man, woman and child should have a letter written
for them in a SEFER TORAH.*
Every person should study either the Rambam's Yad Hachazakah --
Code of Jewish Law -- or the Sefer HaMitzvos.
Concerning Moshiach, the Rebbe stated, "The time for our
redemption has arrived!" Everyone should prepare themselves for
Moshiach's coming by doing random acts of goodness and kindness,
and by studying about what the future redemption will be like. May
we merit to see the fulfillment of the Rebbe's prophecy now!
_______________
*. There are several Torah scrolls being written to unite Jewish
people and protect Jewish life.
Letters for children can be purchased for only $1. Send your
Hebrew name and your mother's Hebrew name plus $1 to:
"Children's Sefer Torah," P.O. Box 8, Kfar Chabad, 72915, Israel
or via the Internet, at: http://www.kidstorah.org
***************************************
* In loving memory of *
* HORAV CHAIM YEHUDA KALMAN *
* Ben Horav Avrohom Yehoshua *
* Marlow *
* head of the Bet-Din (Rabbinical *
* Court) of Crown Heights, *
* Passed away, on Friday Morning, *
* 20 Sivan, 5760 (June 23, 2000) *
* *
* May His Soul Merit Eternal Life *
***************************************
*******************************
* THE WEEKLY SHABBAT CALENDAR *
*******************************
** JEWISH WOMEN AND GIRLS LIGHT SHABBAT CANDLES **
*******************************************************
* FOR LOCAL CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES: *
* consult your local Rabbi, Chabad-Lubavitch Center. *
* or: *
* http://www.candlelightingtimes.org/shabbos *
* *
* FOR A FREE CANDLE LIGHTING KIT: *
* contact your local Chabad-Lubavitch Center. *
* *
* FOR A LISTING OF THE CENTERS IN YOUR AREA: *
* http://www.chabadworld.net *
*******************************************************
>>>> Times Shown Are for Metro NY - NJ <<<<
FRIDAY, AUGUST 4, EREV SHABBAT PARSHAT VA'ETCHANAN:
* Light Shabbat Candles, [1] by 7:49 p.m.
SATURDAY, AUG. 5, SHABBAT PARSHAT VA'ETCHANAN:
* Shabbat Nachamu - see above.
* On Shabbat following the afternoon prayer, we read Chapter 4 of
Ethics of the Fathers (Pirkei Avot).
* Shabbat ends at NIGHTFALL, at 8:52 p.m.
_______________
1. The Shabbat candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset.
IT IS PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO
LIGHT THE CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET.
*********************************************
* May the Shabbat candles, of the millions *
* of Jewish women and girls around the *
* world, illuminate our way, until we very *
* soon see the fulfillment of G-d's promise *
* (as it is written in the Midrash *
* (Yalkut Shimoni, Beha'alotecha)): *
* "If you will observe the kindling of the *
* Shabbat lights, you will merit to see *
* the lights of the redemption of the *
* Jewish people," speedily in our days, *
* NOW! *
*********************************************
***************************************
* "LET THERE BE LIGHT" *
* - The Jewish Women's Guide *
* to Lighting Shabbat Candles *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/ltbl.htm *
***************************************
***********************************
* LAWS OF SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING *
* FOR THE BLIND *
***********************************
Edited by Rabbi Y. K. Marlow O.B.M.*
* A blind woman who lives alone should light her Shabbat
candle(s) with a blessing.
* If she is married to a non-visually impaired person, HER
HUSBAND SHOULD LIGHT THE SHABBAT CANDLES WITH THE BLESSING.
* If she is eating and lighting in the company of others who
are non-visually impaired, and they lit the Shabbat candles,
she should light her own Shabbat candle(s), BUT WITHOUT SAYING THE
BLESSING.
* (If at all possible, she should not be the last one to light
the Shabbat candle(s), so that she can be absolved by the latter's
blessing.)
_______________
*. Head of Bet-Din (Rabbinical Court) of Crown Heights.
************************************
* SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING BLESSING *
************************************
* First light the candles. Then spread your hands out around the
candles, drawing your hands inward in a circular motion three times
to indicate the acceptance of the sanctity of Shabbat. You then
cover your eyes and recite the following blessing:
BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
A-SHER KI-DE-SHO-NU BE-MITZ-VO-SOV VE-TZI-VO-NU
LE-HAD-LIK NER SHEL SHA-BOS KO-DESH.
Translation:
Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
who has sanctified us with His commandments, and
commanded us to kindle the light of the holy Shabbat.
* Uncover your eyes and behold the Shabbat lights.
* The time of lighting is considered especially propitious for
praying to G-d for health and happiness. The prayer is readily
acceptable because it is offered during the performance of this
great mitzvah of lighting Shabbat candles.
CAUTION:
The candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset. IT IS
PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO LIGHT THE
CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET.
*******************************************
* MOSHIACH INFORMATION HOTLINES *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/hotlines.htm *
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******************************************
* MOSHIACH IN THE AIR - ELECTRONIC MEDIA *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/e-media.htm *
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* LIVING WITH MOSHIACH *
* Weekly Digest About Moshiach *
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= End of Text: Living With Moshiach, Parshat Va'etchanan, 5777 =
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