LIVING WITH MOSHIACH, Erev Shemini Atzeret

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B"H
LIVING WITH MOSHIACH
Weekly Digest About Moshiach

EREV SHEMINI ATZERET, 5779
Tishrei 21, 5779
Sept. 30, 2018

SPECIAL FEATURE:
Your Shemini Atzeret - Simchat Torah Guide
Tishrei 22-23, 5779
Oct. 1-2, 2018

*********************************************
* 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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Published Weekly By
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Committee For The Blind

* * *

5779

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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.
* Shemini Atzeret.
* Simchat Torah.
* The Rebbe's Prophecy.
* Is Everybody Happy?
* Feet of the Torah.
* Your Shemini Atzeret - Simchat Torah Guide.
* The Intermediate Days of Sukkot.
Chol HaMoed.
Hoshanah Rabbah.
* What Is Simchat Torah?
A Transcendent Joy.
As the Circle Turns.
Children Dancing with Flags.
The Festive Meals.
* Moshiach Matters.
* The Shemini Atzeret - Simchat Torah Calendar.
* Candle and Festival Blessings.
* Holiday Recipes.
Honey Cake.
Traditional Challah.
Fancy Kreplach.
* It Happened Once.
* Time for Unity; Time for Strength!
* A Call to Action.
* "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 1101st issue of our weekly publication, Living
With Moshiach.

*

In this week's issue, we focus on the laws of the upcoming
festive holidays of Shemini Atzeret - Simchat Torah, "Your Shemini
Atzeret - Simchat Torah Guide,"

Therefore, we present here "Your Shemini Atzeret - Simchat Torah
Guide," [*] and other related material.

*

We take this opportunity to wish you and yours a happy holiday.

*

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
11 Tishrei, 5779
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.
______________
* Published by Outreach Publishing Corp.

DEDICATED TO THE REBBE,
In honor of our daughter
CHAYA SARAH
on the occasion of her birthday,
25 Elul

******************
* 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".

***************************************
* SHEMINI ATZERET *
* Adapted from the Works of the Rebbe *
***************************************

Of all the holidays of the month of Tishrei, it is perhaps the
very last, Shemini Atzeret, which best expresses G-d's love for the
Jewish people. The name itself, "Atzeret," comes from the Hebrew
word "to stop" or "delay." G-d detains us, as it were, for one more
day before we return to our regular lives.

The Midrash likens this to a king who holds a seven-day
celebration for his sons. On the eighth day, when it comes time for
them to leave, he is reluctant to see them go and asks them to
remain for one more day of festivities.

A question is asked: How can one more day of celebration make
the inevitable departure less painful? What is gained by pushing it
off? We must therefore conclude that there is something about this
special holiday, Shemini Atzeret, which actually prevents the
departure from taking place at all.

This concept is reflected in the precise language of the
Midrash. "Your departure is difficult," the king tells his sons,
not "our departure." This alludes to the fact that G-d never
abandons the Jewish people; His love for us is constant and
eternal. "Your departure is difficult," G-d tells us. G-d doesn't
want us to abandon Him; He therefore requests that we celebrate one
more holiday together that will serve to strengthen our bond.

The key to maintaining a close connection with G-d is achdut --
unity. When Jews are united with one another our relationship with
G-d is strong. When, however, there is strife and division, it
forms a wedge between the Jewish people and our Father in heaven.

The entire theme of Sukkot is Jewish unity; indeed, the mitzvah
of the Four Species represents the four types of Jews coming
together to be bound into one entity. Nonetheless, after Sukkot is
over and its positive effect has dissipated, the possibility still
exists that the individual elements will revert to their previous
separateness and dissociation.

In order to prevent this from happening, G-d asks us to remain
with Him a while longer, to celebrate a holiday that will secure
our unity in an everlasting manner.

On Shemini Atzeret, a single sacrifice is brought in the Holy
Temple, expressing the idea of the indivisible nature of the Jewish
people. Furthermore, this concept is also reflected in the way the
holiday is celebrated: great scholars and simple people alike
dancing with the Torah scroll, without distinction between them.

The absolute unity with which we conclude the holidays of
Tishrei thus guarantees that these feelings will carry over into
the rest of the year, effectively preventing that we will ever
"depart" from holiness, G-d forbid.

***************************************
* SIMCHAT TORAH *
* Adapted from the Works of the Rebbe *
***************************************

The last day of the festival of Sukkot is Simchat Torah, the
Rejoicing of the Torah. On this day we conclude the yearly cycle of
the Torah reading by finishing the last portion of the Book of
Deuteronomy and begin again with the first chapter of Genesis. But
why was this particular day chosen to celebrate our joy in the
Torah?

The answer lies in Simchat Torah's close relationship with Yom
Kippur, which precedes Sukkot by five days. One explanation of why
this holiday is observed as a celebration of Torah has to do with
the tablets of the Ten Commandments. On Shavuot, when the Torah was
revealed, G-d gave Moses the first set of tablets. These Moses
broke after seeing the Golden Calf that the Jews had fashioned.
Moses ascended Mount Sinai for a second forty-day period, begging
G-d's forgiveness for the Jewish people. After a third forty-day
period, Moses descended with the second set of tablets. These
second tablets were, in certain respects, superior to the first,
and are called "a double portion of blessing."

Another reason we rejoice on this day is because of the basic
difference between Shavuot -- the holiday which commemorates the
Giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai -- and Simchat Torah. On
Shavuot, the Torah was presented to mankind as a gift, whereas on
Simchat Torah the joy we feel comes, to a certain extent, from the
toil and effort we invested in living and learning Torah during the
previous year.

Human nature is such that it is impossible to feel pure and
unadulterated joy over something that is received without having
expended any effort. Food that a person receives as a charitable
donation is called the "bread of shame," and brings with it only
incomplete satisfaction. A person is truly happy only when his
success and wealth are achieved as the fruits of his own labor.
This is why, on Shavuot, our rejoicing in the Torah is not
complete, for on that day G-d gave us His gift without any effort
on our part. Our unlimited joy in G-d's Torah is reserved for
Simchat Torah, the culmination of an entire year's learning and
study.

Unlike the first set of tablets of the Ten Commandments, the
second set were fashioned by Moses and not by G-d, although the
letters were again written by the Divine hand. This underscores the
power man has been given to become an active and willing partner in
G-d's plan for the universe.

Furthermore, when the Ten Commandments were given to the Jews
for the first time, they were all considered to be tzadikim,
righteous people. They stood at Mount Sinai in unprecedented unity,
and were free of sin. The second time around, on Yom Kippur, the
Jewish people had already committed the sin of the Golden Calf, and
were now baalei teshuvah -- they had returned to the right path
after their transgression. Their joy in G-d's Torah on that day was
even greater than on Shavuot, because a person who has sinned and
does teshuvah is on an even higher level than one who has never
sinned, and the closeness to G-d that comes after one has
temporarily strayed is therefore that much more precious.

*************************************************
* 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 *
*************************************************

************************
* 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. 1095:
http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5778/1095.txt

*********************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR GRANDPARENTS,*
* *
* Reb Shmuel Pesach Ben Reb Yaakov Dovid *
* On the occasion of his 24th yahrtzeit, *
* 3 Tishrei, 5779 *
* *
* 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 *
*********************************************

***********************
* IS EVERYBODY HAPPY? *
***********************

The holidays of Sukkot, Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah,
which, happily, are approaching, are referred to as "the time of
our rejoicing."

As such, let's take a look at some of the words of our Sages and
chasidic teachings about the importance of joy and happiness in our
lives.

King David in Psalms advises us, "Serve G-d with joy, come
before Him with jubilation." The power of joy is unlimited, for, as
stated in the Talmud, "Joy breaks all boundaries."

In addition, G-d attaches a great deal of importance to joy, for
"The Divine Presence rests only upon one who performs a mitzvah in
a joyous spirit" (Talmud). In fact, it is said about the famous
16th century Kabbalist, Rabbi Yitzchok Luria, that he merited
Divine inspiration and even to meet Elijah the Prophet, because he
infused his mitzvot with so much joy.

Simchah (joy), is one of the most essential elements of the
chasidic way of life. In fact, in the early stages of the chasidic
movement, before the name "chasidim" was coined, Chasidim were
often referred to in Yiddish as "di freilicha," meaning, "the happy
ones."

The Baal Shem Tov, founder of Chasidus, would say that
sometimes, when the Yetzer Hora (the evil impulse) tries to
persuade a person to commit a sin, it does not care whether or not
the person will actually sin. What it is looking for is that after
sinning, the person will become depressed and overcome with
sadness. In other words, the depression that follows the sin can
cause more spiritual damage than the actual sin itself.

Rabbi Shlomo of Karlin taught that depression is considered the
threshold of all evil. He said that although the 365 negative
commandments do not include a commandment not to be depressed, the
damage that sadness and depression can cause is worse than the
damage that any sin can cause.

The Rebbe explained that if the Jewish people already begin now
to rejoice in the Redemption, out of our absolute trust that G-d
will speedily send us Moshiach, this joy in itself will (as it
were), compel G-d to fulfill His children's wish and to redeem them
from exile.

In the Tanya, the basic work of Chabad Chasidic philosophy,
Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, used the example of two wrestlers to
describe the importance of joy:

"With a victory over a physical obstacle, such as in the case of
two individuals who are wrestling with each other, each striving to
throw the other -- if one is lazy and sluggish he will easily be
defeated and thrown, even though he be stronger than the other,
exactly so it is in the conquest of one's evil nature; it is
impossible to conquer it with laziness and heaviness, which
originates in sadness and in a heart that is dulled like a stone,
but rather with alacrity, which derives from joy and from a heart
that is free and cleansed from any trace of worry and sadness. This
is a cardinal principle."

A chasid once wrote to the third Chabad-Lubavitch Rebbe, Rabbi
Menachem M. Schneerson, known as the Tzemach Tzedek, that he found
it difficult to be happy. The Tzemach Tzedek advised him:

"Thought, speech and action are within one's control. A person
must guard his thoughts and think only thoughts that bring joy; he
should be cautious not to speak about sad or depressing matters;
and he should behave as if he were very joyous, even if he doesn't
feel especially happy. In the end, he will ultimately be joyous."

What can you do to help a friend out of a slump if he isn't too
happy? Tell him some good news, as our Sages advised, for good news
gladdens the heart and good tidings expand the mind.

Happy holidays!

*********************
* FEET OF THE TORAH *
*********************

Every year, when Jews go forth to dance on Simchat Torah, Torah
scrolls cradled in their arms, they are expressing the fiery bond
of the Jewish people to the Torah and to G-d.

Viewing this dancing -- hakafot -- in the light of Chasidus,
some puzzling questions arise about the manner in which we
celebrate Simchat Torah. The Torah belongs to the sphere of the
intellect (Torah from the root hora'a -- teaching), and it is our
obligation to study Torah and to understand it. Would it not be
more appropriate then to celebrate Torah in an intellectual manner,
by intensifying its study, delving into it in greater depth and
rejoicing in the growth of our knowledge and understanding?

We seem to do exactly the opposite. Instead of studying the
Torah, we take it in our arms, rolled up and clothed in its cover
in a manner that makes it impossible to read from it, and instead
of serving the Torah with our heads, we serve it with our feet --
by dancing!

But strange as it may seem, it is through the dancing of hakafot
that we can best express our true and inner relationship to Torah.
Torah is the wisdom of G-d, as it is written: "He has chosen us
from among the nations and given us His Torah." As such, the true
meaning of Torah is concealed from us, beyond all human
understanding. The scholar can grasp its true essence no better
than a small child. The Torah speaks not to our limited human
intellect, but to the soul itself, for the soul, too, is "part of
G-d Above." When we study Torah -- whether it is the Torah learning
of a great scholar, or the breath of a small child reciting a verse
-- we are connecting the essence of G-d found in the Torah with the
essence of our soul.

The Torah as we see it at hakafot, enclosed in its cover,
symbolizes the aspect of Torah that is hidden from our intellect.
All Jews, regardless of their level of scholarship, can dance with
the Torah. For Torah, as G-d's gift, is the inheritance of all the
Jewish people (and an heir inherits absolutely, regardless of age
or personal qualities).

The previous Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn, explained
that the Torah wishes to go around the reading table. But since the
Torah has no feet, the Jewish people become the feet of the Torah,
and carry it around the bimah.

What does it mean to become the feet of the Torah? Feet have no
will of their own, but obey the dictates of the head
unquestioningly and automatically. By dancing with the Torah,
becoming its "feet," we express our resolve to obey the mitzvot of
the Torah with simple faith and total devotion. The joyous
dedication of the Jewish people to Torah causes the Torah itself to
be elevated, just as the head is borne along by the feet to the
place it wishes to go. This is why Simchat Torah is called, "the
season of our rejoicing," when the Jewish people rejoice in the
Torah, and the Torah, too, rejoices in the Jewish people, both
benefiting each other.

This, then, is the message of hakafot. The true foundation of
all Torah learning and the service of G-d throughout the year must
be based on the recognition of the holiness of Torah as a gift of
the One Above, and on a pure and simple faith leading to devotion
and obedience.

But all this is only the foundation. G-d gave us powers of
intellect, talents and abilities, and these, too, must be put to
the service of Torah. We must not remain with simple faith alone,
but must struggle to understand as much of the Torah as we are
able, by means of our intellect. Only then will we serve G-d with
our entire being.

Even as we dance hakafot with our rolled-up Torah scrolls, it is
the reading table we are encircling, reminding us of the duty to
study the Torah. And before each hakafah we recite verses from the
Torah. For only when simple faith and devotion are combined with
study and understanding are hakafot the way they are supposed to
be.

**********************************************
* YOUR SHEMINI ATZERET - SIMCHAT TORAH GUIDE *
*--------------------------------------------*
* Tishrei 22-23, 5779 *
* Oct. 1-2, 2018 *
**********************************************

***********************************
* THE INTERMEDIATE DAYS OF SUKKOT *
***********************************

Chol HaMoed

The third through the seventh days of Sukkot, from Tuesday
night, Sept. 25, through Sunday, Sept. 30, are called Chol Hamoed
-- the intermediate days.

We do not recite Kiddush or light candles, except for Shabbat.
However, only very necessary work should be done.

Throughout the seven days of the Festival, we continue our
celebration in the sukkah, in ever-increasing exhilaration.

Just as the seven solemn days between Rosh HaShanah and Yom
Kippur serve to make amends for each week of the previous year, so
the seven joyous days of Sukkot will bring us happiness in all the
weeks of the year to come.

Hoshanah Rabbah

The seventh day of Sukkot, Sunday, Sept. 30, is called Hoshanah
Rabbah.

It is customary to stay awake the night before and recite
portions of Torah and the Book of Psalms.

In the morning, we circle the Bimah (platform) seven times,
lulav and etrog in hand. Then we recite special prayers, called
"Hoshanah."

In an ancient rite of profound mystical significance, we beat on
the floor five willow branches that are bound together,
symbolically "sweetening" G-d's judgment.

**************************
* WHAT IS SIMCHAT TORAH? *
**************************

A Transcendent Joy

Simchat Torah is the culmination of a month filled with
uplifting experiences.

We have stood in awe before the King of the Universe; we have
been forgiven and cleansed by His mercy; and we have experienced
the joy of uniting with G-dliness through His beautiful
commandments.

Now, we rejoice with His Torah.

We take the sacred scrolls in our arms and dance together,
scholar and novice alike.

During the dancing, the scroll remains in its cover, for this is
not a time for study.

The joy of Simchat Torah is far greater than any delight we may
derive from intellectual understanding. Here again, we emphasize
that sublime level of the Jewish soul where we are all one.

As the Circle Turns

On the evening of Simchat Torah, Monday, Oct. 1 (and in some
communities, on the previous evening of Shemini Atzeret, Sunday
evening, Sept. 30, as well), we make seven "hakafot" (circlings)
around the bimah, singing and dancing with the Torah scrolls.

On the morning of Simchat Torah, Tuesday, Oct. 2, the final
portion of the Torah is read, completing the yearly cycle. Then we
immediately start reading the beginning. Thus, we continue to
nourish ourselves from the infinite wisdom of G-d's Torah -- the
eternal force that has bound us together and sustained us for 3,330
years.

Children Dancing with Flags

In an army parade, each regiment carries its colors. So, too, on
Simchat Torah, when all of the Torah scrolls are taken out of the
Ark and danced with, the children carry flags, like soldiers, to
impress upon them that we are all in G-d's army.

The Festive Meals

On the eighth day, Monday, Oct. 1, which is Shemini Atzeret,
that commences on Sunday night, we continue to eat meals in the
sukkah, but without reciting the blessing "Lei-shev Ba-su-kah."

On Simchat Torah, Tuesday, Oct. 2, the ninth day, which
commences on Monday night, we resume eating meals indoors.

********************************************
* In loving memory of *
* RABBI ELYE GROSS, *
* our Developmental Consultant *
* * *
* On the occasion of his 24th yahrzeit, *
* 22 Tishrei, 5779 *
********************************************

********************
* MOSHIACH MATTERS *
********************

"Sukkot is referred to as Chag HaAssif -- the harvest festival.
This name also relates to the Jews' gathering together, filled with
Ahavas Yisrael [love for one's fellow Jew]. Such gatherings
precipitate the ultimate gathering of the Jewish people, which will
take place at the time of the Redemption. For when division and
strife, the cause of the exile, are nullified, the exile itself,
the effect, will be nullified."
The Rebbe, Sukkot 5752/1992

***************************************
* 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) *
***************************************

**********************************************************
* THE SHEMINI ATZERET - SIMCHAT TORAH CALENDAR 5779/2018 *
**********************************************************

Jewish women and girls light Yom Tov and 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, SEPT. 28, EREV SHABBAT CHOL HAMOED:
* Light Shabbat Candles, [1] BY 6:25 p.m.
Say blessing #3.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 29, SHABBAT CHOL HAMOED:
* Shabbat ends at NIGHTFALL, at 7:22 p.m.

SUNDAY, SEPT. 30, EREV SHEMINI ATZERET:
* Hoshanah Rabbah - see above "Hoshanah Rabbah"
* Light Yom Tov candles, [2] BY 6:21 p.m.
Say blessings #1 & 2.
* Hakafot - see above, "As the Circle Turns."

MONDAY, OCT. 1, SHEMINI ATZERET:
* Yizkor memorial prayers.
* Light Yom Tov candles, [3] AFTER NIGHTFALL, AFTER 7:18 p.m.
Say blessings #1 & 2.
* Hakafot (Dancing with the Torah).

TUESDAY, OCT. 2, SIMCHAT TORAH:
* Hakafot.
* Yom Tov ends at NIGHTFALL, at 7:17 p.m.

FRIDAY, OCT. 5, EREV SHABBAT PARSHAT BEREISHIS:
* Light Shabbat Candles, [4] BY 6:13 p.m.
Say blessing #3.

SATURDAY, OCT. 6, SHABBAT PARSHAT BEREISHIS:
* Blessing of the New Hebrew Month, Cheshvan. [5]
* Shabbat ends at NIGHTFALL, at 7:10 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.

2. If lighting *AFTER* sunset, light only from a preexisting
flame.

A preexisting flame is a flame burning continuously since the
onset of Yom Tov, such as a pilot light, gas or candle flame.

3. Do not light *BEFORE* the times indicated. Light only from a
preexisting flame.

4. 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.

5. Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan is on Tuesday, Oct. 9, and Wednesday,
Oct. 10.

*********************************
* CANDLE AND FESTIVAL BLESSINGS *
*********************************

After lighting the candles, recite:

#1.

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 YOM TOV.

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 Yom Tov light.

#2.

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADOI-NOI E-LOI-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OILOM
SHE-HE-CHE-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
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.

*******************
* HOLIDAY RECIPES *
*******************

Honey Cake

Traditionally served on Rosh HaShanah and Erev Yom Kippur,
symbolic of our wishes for a sweet year.

3 eggs
1 pound honey (1-1/3 cups)
1-1/3 cups sugar
1 cup strong coffee
2 tsps. baking powder
3 tbsps. margarine
1 tsp. baking soda
4 cups flour
1 tsp. cinnamon

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Grease and flour a 9" x 13" pan.

Beat eggs and honey together. Add sugar and mix again. Mix
coffee with baking powder, and then add with margarine to the egg
mixture. Add baking soda, flour, cinnamon and beat together well.

Bake in greased 9" x 13" pan at 325 degrees for 55 minutes to an
hour.

Traditional Challah

For an unusually smooth taste and texture to enhance your
Shabbat and High Holiday / Festival meals.

5 pounds flour
2 ounces fresh yeast & 1 package dry yeast
2 cups warm water
1-1/2 sticks margarine
2-1/3 cups boiling water
2 tbsps. salt
1-1/2 cups sugar
5 eggs

Glaze:
1 egg, beaten
Poppy seeds

Dissolve yeast in 2 cups warm water, in a small bowl, until it
bubbles. In a large bowl, place margarine and pour boiling water
over it and stir until margarine is melted. Add salt and sugar. Let
cool for a few minutes and beat in eggs. Add the bubbling yeast.
Gradually add flour.

Knead for 10 minutes. If dough is too moist add a little more
flour.

When ready to rise, smear top of dough with oil, cover and let
rise 1 hour.

When the dough has risen, while still covered, separate -- tear
off -- a small portion of dough known as 'challah' from the whole
dough. Make the 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-HAF-RISH CHA-LOH.

TRANSLATION:

Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
who has sanctified us with His commandments,
and commanded us to separate challah.

This piece of dough is put in the oven to bake away until it is
inedible.

Shape and let rise another hour. Brush with beaten egg to glaze.
Sprinkle with poppy seeds.

Bake at 350 degrees, 1 hour for large challahs, 1/2 hour for
smaller challahs and rolls.

Fancy Kreplach

Kreplach , a chopped meat or chicken mixture encased in dough,
and then cooked or fried, is traditionally served the afternoon
before Yom Kippur, on Hoshanah Rabbah and at the Purim feast.

DOUGH:
2 cups flour
1/3 tsp. salt
3 tbsps. oil
2 egg yolks
1/2 cup water
1-1/2 tsps. baking powder or baking soda

FILLING:
1 onion, diced
2 tbsps. oil
1 cup ground cooked meat or chicken
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 tbsp. matzoh meal
1 egg

DOUGH: Combine flour, salt and oil. In a separate bowl, beat egg
yolks, water and baking powder (or soda). Add to flour mixture.
Knead and roll out, thinly, on floured surface. Cut into 3-inch
squares or circles.

FILLING: Saute onion in oil. Add chopped meat and brown for 5
minutes.

Remove from heat and cool. Add salt, pepper, egg and matzoh meal
and mix well. Fill center of each square or circle with meat
mixture. Fold into triangles, or bring both sides and bottom
together towards center, pinching together, and thus forming a
triangle.

Place in lightly salted boiling water for approximately 20
minutes until kreplach float to top. When ready, remove from pot
and serve in soup. Can also be served as side dish.

For firmer kreplach, fry in heated oil in skillet over medium
flame until golden brown on both sides.

********************
* IT HAPPENED ONCE *
********************

The day before Yom Kippur the air in the city of Lubavitch was
already permeated with the holiness of the day. Reb Shmuel, a
respected scholar and chasid, sat in a corner of the shul swaying
in prayer when the door swung open and a peddler entered the room.
He threw himself down on a bench and tossed his pack on the floor.
Reb Shmuel inquired, "How are you, brother?"

"Oy," sighed the man. "The exile is dark and terrible. Just
today I was walking past the mansion of Squire Lobomirsky. Everyone
knows his evil reputation. Whenever I pass that place, I walk as
fast as I can to get away from it. Suddenly, someone cried out,
'Hey, Jew!' My blood ran cold. Thank G-d, it was only the squire's
servant, who wanted to buy a scarf from me. He told me about a
Jewish family imprisoned in the squire's dungeon. They owe him
rent, and if they don't pay by tomorrow, they'll all be killed. If
only I had that money...what a terrible and dark exile."

By the time the man had finished his tale, Reb Shmuel had left
the shul; soon he was knocking at the gates of the squire's
mansion. "I must speak with His Excellency," he said to the guard.
He was allowed to enter and he proceeded to the room where
Lobomirsky sat. When the squire saw the Jew, he was infuriated:
"How dare you enter my house! What do you want, Jew?"

"I want to know what is the debt of that poor, unfortunate
family you have imprisoned."

The ruthless landowner's eyes lit up with the thought of lining
his pockets with the money. "Let me think about it," he smiled
slyly and began to calculate: "Well, there's the debt, then there's
all the money I put out to feed the whole brood, then there's the
penalty payment; there's also the money required to cancel their
hanging -- it would have provided good entertainment." At the end
of his "calculations," Reb Shmuel was faced with an exorbitant sum.

"Somehow G-d will help me raise that sum," Shmuel replied to the
smirking Lobomirsky.

It was getting late. Reb Shmuel went from door to door, telling
everyone about the plight of the imprisoned family, and although
they were as generous as possible, they themselves were poor. When
he had finished his rounds, Reb Shmuel had a pitifully small sum in
his hands. "This will never do," he thought to himself. "I must do
something else, and fast."

He was walking aimlessly, thinking of his next move, when he
looked up and found himself in front of a tavern. The sound of
loud, drunken voices emerged from within, and Shmuel was seized
with the thought that just perhaps his money was waiting for him
inside, if only he could figure out how to get it. As soon as he
entered, he was sickened by the smell of liquor and stale smoke. A
group of card players looked up, surprised to see a chasidic Jew in
their midst. "What do you want, Jew?"

"I am here on a mission of mercy. The lives of an entire family
hang in the balance. I must raise a large sum of money." One of the
players replied, "Well, if you can down this beaker of vodka, I
just might give you this money," and he pointed to a towering stack
of gold coins. Reb Shmuel was never much of a drinker, but what
choice did he have? He downed the vodka, and true to his word, the
card player handed over the money. In quick succession, the other
players offered their winnings if he would drink two more huge cups
of vodka. Reb Shmuel's eyes were beginning to cross, but the
glimmering piles of coins steadied his resolve. An hour after he
had entered the tavern, he staggered out with his pockets bulging
and stumbled in the direction of the squire's mansion.

The squire couldn't believe his eyes, but he greedily accepted
the gold and released the grateful family who had barely escaped
death.

Reb Shmuel could barely put one foot in front of the other; his
eyes no longer focused, but, he still remembered the holy day. He
managed to get to the shul, where he promptly collapsed in a heap.
The worshippers were dressed in their white robes, looking so much
like the ministering angels. They were startled to see Reb Shmuel
snoring away, dressed in his weekday clothes that showed evidence
of his tavern experience. "What could have come over him?" they
wondered.

Reb Shmuel lay asleep throughout the evening of prayers that
marked the beginning of the holiest day. His snoring provided a
constant accompaniment to the heartfelt prayers rising from the
congregation. The prayers ended, Psalms were recited, and the shul
emptied out. Reb Shmuel slept on.

At the first morning light, the worshippers returned to the shul
for the long day of prayers. Reb Shmuel was beginning to stir. They
watched curiously as he opened his bleary eyes and stood up.
Walking straight to the bimah, Reb Shmuel banged on the wood with
his fist, and in a booming voice, exclaimed: "Know that G-d, He is
the L-rd; there is none other than Him."

The congregation fell into confusion. What was Reb Shmuel doing
reciting the words of the Simchat Torah prayers?! Why, didn't he
realize that today was Yom Kippur? Suddenly the rabbi rose and
turned toward the congregation: "Leave Reb Shmuel alone. He has far
outpaced us. With the great deed he has done, his atonement is
complete, and he is waiting for us at Simchat Torah!"

**************************************
* 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

********************
* A CALL TO ACTION *
********************

The Rebbe's slogan is: "The main thing is the deed." We
therefore present from the Rebbe's talks, suggestions of what we
can do to complete his work of bringing the Redemption.

Preparations for the High Holidays:

"Our Sages state that thirty days before a holiday, we should
learn the laws pertaining to it. It is already less then thirty
days before the holidays of Tishrei begin and in this context, it
is necessary to mention the importance of providing Jews with their
holiday needs so that they will be able to celebrate Rosh HaShanah
and the holidays that follow in the manner stated in the Bible,
'Eat sumptuous foods and drink sweet beverages and send portions to
those who do not have them prepared.'"
The Rebbe, Elul, 5750/1990

*********************************************
* 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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******************************************
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* 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, Erev Shemini Atzeret , 5779 =
=====================================================