holy scribbles

For Your Own Benefit

weekly Torah reading: parasha Eikev 5783

“And now, Israel, what doth the L’RD thy G’d require of thee, but to fear the L’RD thy G’d, to walk in all His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the L’RD thy G’d with all thy heart and all thy soul; to keep for thy good the commandments of the L’RD, and His statutes, which I command thee this day?” – Deuteronomy 10:12-13, JPS 1917 Tanach

Nachmanides explains, that “He does not require anything of you for His sake, only for your sake,” as is written, “to keep for thy good.” (Ramban on Deuteronomy 10:12-13; sefaria.org). He continues to explicate on this rendering, by comparing the following verse: “If thou be righteous, what givest thou Him?” (Job35:7). In other words, righteousness, in and of itself, benefits the one who seeks to conduct his life in a righteous manner, thereby, permeating all of his ways with kedushah (holiness).

According to Sforno, “all of this G’d asks only for your own good, so that you will qualify for eternal life in the hereafter.” Thereby, he points toward the ultimate benefit of serving the L’RD, with awe, respect, and reverence, in regard to the commandments, with all of the heart and soul. The verse is akin to the commandment, to love the L’RD thy G’d with all of thy heart, soul, and might (Deuteronomy 6:4).

If we only knew to what extent the soul benefits, by acknowledging the sovereignty of the L’RD in our lives; instead, keeping the commandments sometimes seems like a burden, being performed because of expectations or obligations. Yet, the well-being that we seek in our lives is dependent upon abiding in the word of G’d.

Vanquished Dreams

weekly Torah reading : parasha Va’etchanan 5783

Moses, who lost out on permission to enter the land, pleaded one last time with H’Shem. He did not expect to change the L-RD’s mind, based upon any merit that he might claim for himself; for, it was precisely his demerit, having struck the rock, instead of speaking to the rock, that compelled G-d to decree that neither Moses, nor Aaron would enter the Land. Yet, try and try again, for the sake of making an appeal to the L-RD, Who on several occasions in the past, relented from strict judgment against Israel.

To no avail, Moshe’s pleas only brought the retort that the L-RD had heard enough, he would not change his mind. Why, we may ask, when Moses acted on behalf of the people, the L-RD forgave them, and lessened the judgment; yet, in asking for himself, he is refused? Although I am not prone to speculation, one answer could be because of the high level of expectations the L-RD had of him, as well as Aaron, because of their leadership positions. For, more is expected of those who have greater responsibilities to others.

Yet, consider, that all was not lost upon Moses, for his error; rather, as Rashi comments, his consolation prize, so to speak, was permission to enter Olam Haba (the World to Come). And, this, in all estimation, is really the greater reward – one that we should also look forward to in great expectation. For, this world is like a corridor, where we prove ourselves to the L-RD, so that we may enter the banquet hall, symbolic of the World to Come (Pirkei Avos 4:21). Like Moshe, regardless of whatever unfulfilled dreams we may have in our own lives, G-d will grant an even greater reward to us, if we remain faithful to Him.

Daily Potential

parasha Devarim 5783

“The L-RD your God has blessed you in all your undertakings. He has watched over your wanderings through this great wilderness.”

– Deuteronomy 2:7, JPS 1985 Tanach

While journeying from place to place in the wilderness, the L-RD provided the Children of Israel with sustenance, in the form of water from the well, manna from the sky, and quails, on that one occasion, that they ate for a month. Over a period of forty years, the fledgling nation of Israel was guarded, guided, and provided for by the L-RD. This time was also used to test them, when provisions seemed to run scarce, or they had growing temptations about returning to Egypt, where there was not only more variety of food, also, security in knowing where their food would come from every day to put on their table. Their provisions in Egypt, even as slaves, seemed surer, than the day-to-day trust that they needed to place in the L-RD, who only provided for them on a daily basis.

Perhaps, the adage, “one day at a time,” is significant, here, with respect to the way they lived their lives for forty years. And, the same adage can be applied to our lives today, with respect towards a trusting in the simplicity of life, when we focus on our needs, instead of our wants. For, only inasmuch that we can depend on the provision of the day, for both our material and spiritual nourishment, can we live in appreciation of each day, as a unique, unrepeatable basic unit of time, that brings certain opportunities for our growth as individuals. Each day has its potential that is offered in its own time. This is akin to the offerings of the moadim (appointed times), “each on its own day” (Leviticus 23:37). So, that in regard to the days of our lives, we may achieve what G-d’s expectations are for us, adding day upon day, in order to accumulate understanding, experience, and wisdom.

Guard Your Speech

weekly Torah reading: parasha Mattos – Masei 5783

“When a man voweth a vow unto the L-RD, or sweareth an oath to bind his soul with a bond, he shall not break his word; he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.” – Numbers 30:2, JPS 1917 Tanach

Although the specific kinds of vows and oaths, referenced in the above-mentioned commandment apply to certain situations, within the context of Judaic law, the general principle is encapsulated, “he shall not break his word; he shall do according to all that proceedeth out of his mouth.” Therefore, the premise may be applied to more commonly found issues, regarding the integrity or lack of integrity of speech.

In our own lives, there are many stipulations that could be identified in terms of the words that we speak. For example, oftentimes what is said in anger is not to be taken seriously. It is better to acknowledge what may have been said out of anger as inappropriate, making amends for the emotional harm done. This requires the counterpart of forgiveness by the recipient.

Any commitments we make to ourselves or others should be kept or not made at all. The Sages were very skeptical about making vows of any sort, saying that it is better to not vow at all. The L-RD appreciates a sincere effort in all that we do for His sake; it is better not to boast about our intentions. Bragging will only lead towards a negative consequence, akin to the adage, pride before a fall.

Additionally, all of our words should be chosen carefully, in accordance with humility. Idle chatter will be scrutinized by the heavenly court at the judgment. We will be subject to the consequences of every idle word spoken. Ill-spoken words will also be taken into account, as well as words of judgment against others. Taking all of this into consideration, it is better to remain silent, than to speak without thinking. Let us guard our speech from now on.

“Set a guard, O L-RD, to my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips.”

– Psalm 141:3, JPS 1917 Tanach

parasha Chukat – Balak 5783

“And H-Shem said unto Moses and Aaron: ‘Because ye believed not in Me, to sanctify Me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this assembly into the land which I have given them.'” – Numbers 20:12, JPS

Moses was previously told to strike the rock (Exodus 17:6); now he is being told to “speak to the rock” (Numbers 20:8). This is an important difference. However, Moses is also told to take the staff with him, when he goes to speak to the rock before the eyes of the assembly. Even so, there is also a difference between being told to take the staff with him, presumably as a sign of authority, versus using the staff in a manner that had not been explicitly stated by H’Shem.

There are many reasons given by the sages as to why Moses struck the rock. Perhaps, based upon his corresponding words, referring to B’nei Yisrael as rebels, he had let anger occlude his judgment. If so, then one lesson to be emphasized is that of the use of proper discernment in our lives. The people, also, apparently lacked discernment in that particular instance as well:

Purportedly, when they drank form the waters that flowed from the rock that Moses struck, there was no difference in the manner that they drank from that of the animals. They had succumbed to their animal instincts, what is referred to in Judaism as the animal soul, the side of human beings that is lesser in quality and distinction than the part of the human soul that is capable of transcending our baser instincts.

We are not animals, we are human beings with a soul infused into us by G-d (see Genesis 2:7). With this in mind, I have been making a deliberate attempt not to eat in any manner that would contradict my own sense of human dignity. This includes making sure to say the after blessing, as well as the primary blessing, before eating this kind of food or that kind food.

Food for thought: How do we sanctify H’Shem in our own lives, and the eyes of others? Where in our lives, do we neglect to sanctify H’Shem? “Man hath no pre-eminence above a beast; for all is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 3:19). “All is vain except for the pure soul that gives an account before the Throne” (morning prayers).

parasha Korach 5783

weekly Torah reading: parasha Korach 5783 – Positive Controversy

“Every controversy that is in the Name of Heaven shall in the end lead to a permanent result, but every controversy that is not in the Name of Heaven shall not lead to a permanent result. Which controversy was that which was in the Name of Heaven? Such was the controversy of Hillel and Shammai. And that which was not in the Name of Heaven? Such was the controversy of Korah and all his company.” – Pirkei Avos 5:20

After the incident of the spies, whereof the people were demoralized by the ill report of the land, H’Shem decreed that generation would wander in the desert for a total of forty years. The people were none too happy about this consequence of their lack of faith; plus, there was further discontent sown by Korach, who took advantage of their general malaise, in order to foment an outright rebellion against Moses and Aaron. Yet, Moses was clear about the implications of Korach’s agitation, “you and all your company are gathered against the L-RD” (Numbers 16:11).

Although the intentions of Korach were to take the position of Kohein Gadol for himself, only the rightfully chosen persons are placed in their position of leadership by H’Shem.” The L-RD will show who are His, and who is holy; and will cause him to come near to him; him whom He has chosen will cause to come near to him” (Numbers 16:5). Both Moses and Aaron, as well as the Levites were chosen by H’Shem for their respective positions. When Korach disputed their authority, he was challenging G-d’s authority.

Only controversy in the Name of Heaven, i.e., discussion for the sake of reaching a greater understanding of G-d, scripture, and prophecy, will flourish because the means to a common goal is justified by the intent of the participants to further their own appreciation of heavenly things, from a godly perspective. As one mind may benefit from another, because of the heightened level of discernment attained as a result of the combined effort.

parasha Shelach 5783

“My servant Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and hath followed Me fully, him will I bring into the land whereinto he went; and his seed shall possess it.” – Numbers 14:24, JPS 1917 Tanach

When the Torah records that Caleb “had another spirit,” one view holds that he had two spirits, the one that he outwardly professed, while in the company of the ten spies, and the one that he held within his heart. According to Rashi, “in his heart he had the intention to tell the truth” (Rashi; Midrash Tanchuma, Sh’lach 10; sefaria.org).

This dual reality, of adherence to one’s inward voice, while making a pretense for the sake of self-preservation is not, on the part of Caleb, disingenuous, because of his intent to speak his mind, once he returned from the mission with his compatriot Joshua, who was also like-minded, in regard to encouraging the people with a positive report of the land. In other words, Caleb, spoke the truth in his heart, and he waited until the appropriate time to reveal that truth.

In our own lives, if we are clear on what we personally believe, then despite circumstances that might attempt to compel us in a different direction, we may remain steadfast and true within ourselves. One dramatic historical example concerns the anusim, who were forced to convert under duress to Catholicism, yet, secretly maintained their Judaism. Many anusim today, are returning to their Judaism in a prolific manner.

Currently, in modern society, there is pressure from many sides, “to toe the line,” in regard to the pseudo-morality of Wokism, and its Leftist agenda. While some have openly challenged this movement, others, concerned for their reputation or livelihood, have remained silent; the threat of intimidation, or being cancelled is real.

Yet, eventually, a line may need to be drawn, in the sand, so to speak, for each person, dependent on our willingness to remain true to our belief and practice. Thus, like both Caleb and Joshua, we may feel compelled to speak our truths, irrespective of the consequences (see Numbers 14:6-10).

parasha Beha’alotecha 5783

Moses was shown the pattern for the menorah (seven branched candlestick) that was to be made for the Mishkan (Sanctuary). He received a vision of the heavenly menorah, as if made of light. “The Holy One, blessed be He, showed him the pattern of it in a candlestick of fire (Rashi, Menachot 29a; sefaria.org). “And see that thou make them after their pattern, which is being shown thee on the mount” (Exodus 25:40, JPS 1917 Tanach).

Symbolically, many meanings may be drawn out from the menorah. One such explanation is given by Sforno, who comments, “that only by the ‘right’ side representing preoccupation with eternal values, life in the future, working together with the ‘left’ side which represents the concerns with physical life on our planet, will we be able to attain our purpose on earth” (Sforno on Numbers 8:2, sefaria.org).

This is a timely message, for the implied essence of the teaching is that there needs to be a balance between ruchniyos (spirituality), and gashmiyos (materiality). If humankind is compelled to only focus on materialistic concerns, without giving heed to the Creator, then there is a clear imbalance in values, that will eventually lead to dystopia. Yet, G-d has given us hope, in order to transcend the mundane, even while recognizing the inherent value in leading a godly life on earth. If we continue to cast our eyes Above, we will succeed with our endeavors.

“I am ever mindful of the L-RD’s presence” (Psalms 16:8). Those who are already led astray by the current pseudo-morality, being proffered by Wokism, have fallen prey to an ideology that will not produce fruit. Rather, only by pursuing the righteousness of G-d, will blessings abound, both in this world and the World-to-Come. “And He will do thee good” (Deuteronomy 30:5, JPS 1917 Tanach). “G-d will redeem my soul from the power of the nether-world; for He shall receive me. Selah” (Psalm 49:16, JPS).

parasha Nasso 5783 – G-d’s Word

weekly Torah reading: parasha Nasso 5783

“And when Moses went into the tent of meeting that He might speak with him, then he heard the Voice speaking unto him from above the ark-cover that was upon the ark of the testimony, from between the two cherubim; and He spoke unto him.”

– Numbers 7:89, JPS 1917 Tanach

As recorded in Torah, not until the leaders of each of the twelve tribes of Israel brought their offerings, did the L-RD’s presence appear within the Kadosh Kadoshim (Holy of Holies). It is interesting to note, how the phrase, “the Voice speaking unto him” denotes the voice of the Shechinah (G-d’s presence). The targum paraphrases, “the voice of the Spirit who spake” unto Moses, that descended “from the heaven of heavens” (Targum Yonaton, Numbers 7:89; sefaria.org). The Targum further associates the Voice with “the Word,” hearkening back to G-d’s Ten Utterances in the Creation narrative.

The building of the Mishkan (tabernacle) itself, a microcosm of the macrocosm, is likened to the creation of the world. Hence, it is appropos to think in terms of G-d’s presence being present, as He was in Gan Eden (the Garden of Eden); and, His Word being heard, as at the beginning of Creation. G-d’s presence will now rest between the two golden cherubim on the cover of the Ark of the Covenant; and, so, His voice will emanate from behind the paroches (curtain) that separated the Holy of Holies from the less holy area of the mishkan, called the Holy.

Woven into the fabric, are two depictions of angels that are symbolic of the angels that guarded the Tree of Life. Further lending authenticity to this understanding, are the names given to the wooden dowels of a Torah scroll, eitz chayim (tree of life). G-d compels us to choose life, by acknowledging His words, carefully inscribed on the two tablets of the Aseret HaDibrot (The Ten Statements); otherwise, referred to as the Ten Commandments. From these, stem all of the other commandments. We would be wise to heed the call, by entering into relationship with the L-RD, for the sake of procuring eternal life through His Word.

parasha Nasso 5783 – Reconciliation

weekly T0rah reading: parasha Nasso 5782 – Reconciliation

“Then shall they confess their sin which they have done.”

– Numbers 5:6-7a, JPS 1917 Tanach

The Mishkan along with the Levitical system of offerings were meant to restore the relationship of the people with H’Shem. A restored relationship with H’Shem begins with vidui (confession), whereby we confess our sins to Him; additionally, we return to Him by not making the same transgression(s) again. We must also increase our mitzvoth (good deeds), spend more time engaged with godly pursuits, and less time in that which could be considered frivolous.

This is all the more important in today’s world of instant gratification, social media, and encroaching nihilism. Moreover, the influence of Wokism will draw those who have no moorings, to join the cause of an intolerant advocacy for social justice. A type of social justice that uses identity politics to create groups of people, who are labeled as oppressed. This is cultural Marxism, the dividing of a population, in order to transform the status quo.

Wokism and the concurrent cultural revolution in America has no allowance for the concept of teshuvah (confession, repentance, and forgiveness). Insteado f forgiveness, it promotes intolerance and condemnation. Instead of love, hatred… Its ideological roots are contrary to G-d’s word, and the values of Judeo-Christian belief. G-d provides us with the opportunity for renewal, every time we admit our faults. Wokism condemns all who it judges, without any sense of due justice, discussion, or compassion. It is relentless in its accusations against all dissenters.

Wokism creates its own ledgers of right and wrong, irrespective of G-d’s commandments. It is, simply put, a pseudo-morality, that is being inculcated within every facet of American society today – a widespread indoctrination. It is imperative for G-d fearing people to resist the lure of Wokism, and not confuse its sense of social justice with G-d’s sense of justice. From G-d’s perspective, we may reconcile ourselves to Him, through teshuvah (repentance), therefore restoring our relationship to G-d. This is more important than reconciling ourselves to the world, and its version of restoration.