Podcasts about mishkan

Rashi writes at the beginning of this week's parasha, Beha'alotecha , when Aharon saw all of the Nasi'im bringing big donations to the inauguration of the Mishkan, חלשה דעתו – he felt bad that he did not have a part in them. Hashem told Aharon שלך גדול משלהם – your portion is better than theirs. Your job will be to light the Menorah and prepare the wicks . How is that better? Some of the ba'aleh mussar explain the give and take as follows. Aharon saw how others were serving Hashem and he felt bad that he couldn't serve Hashem like they were. Hashem told Aharon, I don't get impressed by how big a donation is or by what it consists of. What impresses Hashem is that each person does the job that He wants them to do – שלך גדולה – you have to consider your job the greatest job of all because only you could do it and nobody else could. Sometimes we look around at what others are accomplishing and we feel bad that we aren't doing the same. Everybody has a different job in this world to do. It does not matter what others are doing. What matters is if we are doing what we are capable of doing. Hashem loves each and every person's avodah , not because of what it is but because of who it is coming from. Even if someone has been underachieving in the past, Hashem is waiting, kavayachol, with open arms to once again become close with him. Whatever we do He adores and when we want to get closer, Hashem helps us do it. Rabbi Yechiel Spero told a story about a young couple who moved to Baltimore. On their first Shabbat as newlyweds, the bride Sarah escorted her husband to shul on Friday night. As she was sitting in the ladies' section, she noticed it was messy and decided to clean it up and organize it. While she was putting away the siddurim on the bookshelf, she saw a tefillin bag buried underneath a bunch of objects. Sarah took it and put it on a noticeable shelf so the one who it belonged to would be easily able to find it. After she finished cleaning, she admired what she did and decided to come back and do it every week. She noticed week after week the tefillin were always in that spot she put them in. She came back on a weeknight and took a picture of the bag and put up a sign with her number saying, whoever knows whose tefillin these are should please call her. She then took the tefillin to her house for safekeeping. Weeks later, she got a phone call from a woman who said she recognized the name on the bag. She was almost positive that it belonged to her old neighbor's son. That family had moved to Israel five years earlier. Although she hadn't spoken to them in years, she did have their phone number and happily gave it to Sarah. When Sarah called, the phone rang twice and then was declined, so she left a message. Two minutes later, Sarah's phone rang - it was the woman in Israel. After Sarah told her about her experience with the tefillin , she asked this woman if by any chance those tefillin belonged to her son. She heard silence on the line and then some muffled cries. Then the woman began to speak. "My son had gone off the derech 5 years ago. He struggled terribly and stopped wearing his tefillin . Our relationship has been extremely strained. We speak once or twice a year when he needs something. Today, my son called me and said, 'Mom, I want to come home. I am going to start praying again. Do you know where my tefillin are?' While he was asking me that question, your phone number came across my screen. I told him I would find them. Then I heard your message saying you had them." Hashem loves our avodah so much. Even a boy who was off the derech for 5 years, when he wanted to put his tefillin on again, Hashem orchestrated the events with amazing hashgacha to have them ready and waiting at that exact moment. Shabbat Shalom.

In this weeks class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath reveals the Torah's timeless wisdom for navigating today's anxious, high-speed world. Rooted in a single verse from Parshat Behaalotecha, we uncover how the cloud that guided the Jewish people through the desert wasn't just GPS, it was G-d's embrace, offering a blueprint for emotional resilience. Drawing on deep Talmudic insight, the story of the Mishkan, and modern-day inspiration like the heroism of Natan Sharansky, this class is a journey into the eye of the storm… where true serenity lives.Takeaways:* The "Magic Pill" for Stress: A single Torah verse can reframe your entire emotional state.* G-d's Embrace Is Constant: Just like a baby in its mother's arms, we can move through chaos and feel held.* Work ≠ Work: The Torah's definition of melachah (creative labor) holds spiritual secrets for how to balance doing and being.* The Sanctuary Within: Whether building or dismantling, stillness comes from knowing you're in the same Divine space.* Tehillim as a Lifeline: Learn how Psalms became the spiritual oxygen for Natan Sharansky—and how they can be for you, too.* Don't Just Know the Psalm. Know the Shepherd.Support US and Win BIG www.ndgraffle.comSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

We read in Parashat Behaalotecha of the formal consecration of the Leviyim as G-d's special servants who would work in the Mishkan. This process included the offering of sacrifices – specifically, one bull as an Ola (burnt-offering), and a second bull as a Hatat (sin-offering). Rav Levi Yitzhak of Berditchev (1740-1809), in his work Kedushat Levi, notes that pair of sacrifices are listed in two different sequences in this section. When the Torah first mentions the requirement to bring two bulls, it mentions first the Ola, followed by the Hatat (8:8). Later, however, in describing the procedure to be followed for the process of consecration, G-d commands Moshe to offer the Hatat and then the Ola (8:2). Rav Levi Yitzhak explains this discrepancy by citing an insight he heard from his father about the general topic of the sequence required when both an Ola and Hatat are offered. In general, the Hatat offering – which is brought for the purpose of earning atonement – is sacrificed before the Ola, which is sacrificed as a gift to earn Hashem's favor. Quite naturally, as the Gemara (Zebahim 7b) explains, the sinner must first achieve a pardon for his wrongdoing before he can then proceed to win the King's favor and affection. Therefore, the Hatat must be offered before the Ola. However, Rav Levi Yitzchak's father noted, we know that the Ola sacrifice does, in fact, achieve atonement – for sins of Mahashaba (improper thoughts). Although a person who is guilty of having bad intentions is not required to bring a sacrifice, he has the opportunity to achieve atonement through the offering of the optional Ola sacrifice. Seemingly, then, the Ola resembles the Hatat, in that it, too, serves to attain forgiveness, and we must therefore ask why the Hatat is offered before the Ola. Rav Yitzchak Levi's father answered based on the general rule that Hashem does not hold us accountable for our wrongful intentions unless they lead to action. One who harbored wrong intentions does not really need an Ola sacrifice for atonement, since he is not liable to punishment for his sinful thoughts. The exception to this rule is idol-worship. One who harbors thoughts of pagan beliefs is liable to punishment regardless of whether or not he acted upon those thoughts. And therefore, Rav Levi Yitzchak's father asserts, when a sin involving idolatry has been committed, the Ola sacrifice indeed precedes the Hatat, because one must first atone for the thoughts which led to the worship, and then for the worship itself. Returning to the sacrifices of the Leviyim, Rav Levi Yitzhak explains that these offerings were brought on behalf of the entire nation to atone for the grave sin of the golden calf. Fundamentally, as this sin was one of idol-worship, the Ola should have been offered first, before the Hatat, and for this reason, in the initial command, the Ola is mentioned first. However, Rav Levi Yitzhak writes, the truth is that Beneh Yisrael did not truly intend to betray G-d and worship the golden calf. They created a graven image not to replace Hashem, but rather as a means through which they mistakenly thought they could draw close to Hashem. While this was, indeed, a grievous sin, and one which resembled idol-worship, the people did not actually worship a foreign deity. Therefore, when these two sacrifices were actually offered, the Hatat was brought before the Ola, as is done in the case of sins other than idol worship.

Send us a textIn this weeks class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath reveals the Torah's timeless wisdom for navigating today's anxious, high-speed world. Rooted in a single verse from Parshat Behaalotecha, we uncover how the cloud that guided the Jewish people through the desert wasn't just GPS, it was G-d's embrace, offering a blueprint for emotional resilience. Drawing on deep Talmudic insight, the story of the Mishkan, and modern-day inspiration like the heroism of Natan Sharansky, this class is a journey into the eye of the storm… where true serenity lives.Takeaways:* The "Magic Pill" for Stress: A single Torah verse can reframe your entire emotional state.* G-d's Embrace Is Constant: Just like a baby in its mother's arms, we can move through chaos and feel held.* Work ≠ Work: The Torah's definition of melachah (creative labor) holds spiritual secrets for how to balance doing and being.* The Sanctuary Within: Whether building or dismantling, stillness comes from knowing you're in the same Divine space.* Tehillim as a Lifeline: Learn how Psalms became the spiritual oxygen for Natan Sharansky—and how they can be for you, too.* Don't Just Know the Psalm. Know the Shepherd.Click HERE to purchase a raffle ticket www.ndgraffle.comSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

At the end of this week's Parashat Naso , the Torah goes into great detail describing the donations brought by the Nesi'im to inaugurate the Mishkan. Remarkably, each Nasi brought the exact same offering, yet the Torah repeats the full list of items again and again—spanning about 56 pesukim . Why such repetition? The Torah is teaching us a profound lesson: Hashem treasures the efforts of every individual . Even when people perform a mitzvah as part of a group, Hashem values the actions of each person separately. In a shul, there might be hundreds of people reciting the same words, but to Hashem, every word uttered by each person is uniquely precious. There is no such thing as Hashem getting "bored" of repetition. He cherishes everything we say and everything we do—every tefillah, every act of kindness, every mitzvah. The same applies when we experience His presence in our lives. Even when similar moments of hashgachah peratit repeat, each one feels new and meaningful. We're often moved by others' stories of hashgachah , and they awaken in us a desire to see Hashem's hand in our own lives too. Sometimes, we think: Those stories are inspiring, but they never happen to me. Yet we are encouraged to always hope and pray that they do. About a month ago, a story circulated about a chatan who wished to feel his late father's presence at his wedding. Miraculously, around that time, someone from Israel arrived in New York with a letter that the chatan's father had written decades earlier. Through an incredible sequence of events, the letter ended up in the hands of this chatan —dated with the exact date of his wedding. The letter, addressed to a chatan on his wedding day, was written by his father years earlier on that very same Hebrew date. The message felt as though it had come directly from his father, offering blessings from shamayim . This story was shared at a siyyum on Masechet Bava Metzia . In the crowd sat a man named *Yaakov. Hearing the story, he silently wished that he too could receive something from his late father, who had passed away over 20 years ago. The very next day, as Yaakov opened his mail, he noticed an envelope that looked like another routine request. But inside, to his astonishment, was a handwritten letter—written by his father 50 years earlier to a close friend. That friend had just discovered the letter while cleaning for Pesach and thought it would be meaningful to send it to the son of his old friend. Yaakov was overwhelmed. He couldn't stop reading the letter. As he reached the bottom, he noticed a few words written in the opposite direction—a postscript from his father asking his friend where he was up to in Masechet Bava Metzia . Yaakov was stunned. He had just returned from a siyyum on Bava Metzia , where he had wished for a message from his father. Still in disbelief, Yaakov went to his sefarim shelf and opened his Gemara Bava Metzia . Inside was a sticky note marking that he still had to complete pages 50 through 54. It was as if his father was reminding him: Your siyyum isn't complete yet—finish it properly. In that moment, he felt a powerful connection, a personal hashgachah that touched his soul. Yes, the stories we hear really can happen to us. Hashem treasures everything we do, and we are uplifted when we recognize His presence in our lives. May we always feel close to Hashem. May we always sense His guidance. And may we continue to be inspired by the miracles—big and small—that surround us every day. Shabbat Shalom.

The Torah in Parashat Naso tells of the special gifts and sacrifices brought by the Nesi'im – the leaders of the tribes – in honor of the inauguration of the Mishkan. To celebrate this event, the Nesi'im donated wagons to be used by the Leviyim to transport the Mishkan during travel, and then each tribal leader offered a series of sacrifices one day. Each day for twelve days, a different Nasi brought these sacrifices. The Torah introduces this account with the words, "Va'yehi Be'yom Moshe Kalot Moshe Le'hakim Et Ha'Mishkan" – "It was on the day when Moshe finished erecting the Mishkan…" (7:1). Rashi observes that the word "Kalot" resembles the word "Kalla" – "bride." This allusion, Rashi explains, indicates to us that on this day, the day when the Mishkan was completed and began functioning, Beneh Yisrael were like a bride entering under the wedding canopy with her groom. This was the day of Beneh Yisrael's "wedding" with G-d. Rashi's comments must be reconciled with the well-established tradition viewing Ma'amad Har Sinai – G-d's revelation to our ancestors at Mount Sinai – as our nation's "wedding" with the Almighty. Indeed, several customs we observe at weddings commemorate aspects of Ma'amad Har Sinai. For example, we adorn the Hupa with flowers, just as Mount Sinai grew beautiful flowers at the time of the Revelation. And it is customary for the groom to leave the Hupa and walk toward the bride to greet her as she makes her way to the Hupa, as G-d is described as coming from Mount Sinai to greet the people as they made their way from the camp to the foot of the mountain ("Hashem Mi'Sinai Ba" – Debarim 33:2). If our "wedding" with the Almighty occurred on Shabuot, the day of Matan Torah, then how can Rashi speak of the day of the Mishkan's inauguration – which happened nearly ten months later – as the "wedding day"? The answer lies in the tragic event that transpired in between Matan Torah and the inauguration of the Mishkan – the sin of the golden calf. We might say that the day of Matan Torah marked the first stage of the wedding process – what we call "Kiddushin" (betrothal). This is the stage when the groom gives the bride a ring and designates her as his wife. The marriage is completed with the stage of "Nisu'in," when the bride and groom go into private for the first time. The "Nisu'in" between Beneh Yisrael and Hashem was to occur forty days after Ma'amad Har Sinai, on the 17 th of Tammuz, when Moshe came down the mountain with the two tablets. This day was to have marked the completion of the "wedding," whereby our nation was fully "married" to the Almighty. In the interim, however, Beneh Yisrael had betrayed G-d – like a bride who was unfaithful to her groom – by worshipping a foreign deity. Under such circumstances, of course, the "wedding" could not continue. Beneh Yisrael needed to repair the relationship through repentance and through the building of the Mishkan. Once the Mishkan was completed, the "wedding" could now be resumed. Therefore, Rashi writes that on the day of the Mishkan's inauguration, Beneh Yisrael resembled a bride going into the Hupa – because this day marked the renewed "wedding" which had been discontinued as a result of the sin of the golden calf. Not coincidentally, Parashat Naso is almost always read shortly after the celebration of Shabuot, the day which celebrates the beginning of our "marriage" with G-d. Parashat Naso tells of the completion of the "wedding," how our nation succeeded in recovering from the tragic failure of the golden calf, in rebuilding our trust and faithfulness, so we could again be worthy of "marrying" Hashem, of entering into a unique, intimate bond with Him. The story of the Mishkan's completion teaches us that we need to earn this special relationship through loyalty and devotion. If we prioritize other interests and concerns over the Torah, if we choose to place our trust in people and forces other than Hashem, then we are betraying Him and thus become unworthy of His special protection and blessings. If we want to benefit from our relationship with G-d, we need to earn it through unbridled fealty to His commands, and by remaining uncompromisingly and unflinchingly committed to the Torah, without being misled by the alluring "golden calves" that threaten to pull us away from our loyalty to Hashem.

התוכן במ"ת התחיל הענין דהמשכת אלקות למטה, ובחמישי דפ' נשא מסופר על "יום כלות משה להקים את המשכן וגו'" ופרש"י "כַּלות כתיב, יום הקמת המשכן היו ישראל ככלה הנכנסת לחופה" עם ה"חתן", ה' – השלימות של "ושכנתי בתוכם". וגם בנוגע למ"ת מצינו הלשון "כלה": עה"פ "ויתן אל משה ככלתו לדבר אתו" פרש"י "ככלתו כתיב חסר, שנמסרה לו תורה במתנה ככלה לחתן". שזה מרמז על ענין ה"אירוסין" בין ה' לבנ"י במ"ת, כהכנה לענין ה"נישואין" לעת"ל. וכבר ב"אירוסין" נכלל ה"נישואין", שהרי ע"י ה"קידושין" "אסר לה אכולא עלמא כהקדש" וכו'. וזהו שפי' הפשוט ב"כלות" ו"ככלתו" הוא מלשון סיום וחותם; הן ה"כלות" בנוגע להקמת המשכן נאמר בפ' "נשא" והן ה"ככלתו" בנוגע לתורה נאמר בפ' "כי תשא". וההוראה: לימוד התורה והעסק בעניני "זהב וכסף נחושת" כדי לעשות משכן לו ית' צ"ל באופן דנשיאת ראש. והנתינת-כח לזה בא מ"אנכי ה' אלקיך", וכ"כלה" של ה' שמגיע לה "כ"ד קישוטי כלה"!...משיחת אור לי"ב סיון ה'תשמ"ב ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=05-06-2025 Synopsis Chamishi of Parashas Nasso discusses “the day on which Moshe finished erecting the Mishkan,” with the word “finished” (kalos) written as kalas, alluding to a bride, as Rashi states, “for on the day the Mishkan was erected, the Jewish people were like a bride entering the bridal canopy” with the “Groom,” Hashem. This marked the completion drawing G-dliness into the world (“And I will dwell within them”). We similarly find the expression “bride” in connection with the giving of the Torah, which marked the beginning of G-dliness coming down into the world: The verse states, “When He finished (kechaloso) speaking with Moshe, He gave him…”; as Rashi explains, “It is written as kekalaso, without a vov, for the Torah was given to him as a gift, like a bride to the bridegroom.” The giving of the Torah marked the kiddushin (betrothal) of Hashem and the Jewish people, in preparation for the coming nisuin (marriage), and the kiddushin already encompassed the nisuin, because the kiddushin renders the bride “forbidden to everyone else like hekdesh” etc., which is why the plain meaning in both cases (kalos and kechaloso) is completion and conclusion. Additionally, they appear in parashas Ki Sisa and parashas Naso respectively, both of which connote “raising up.” The lesson is that Torah study, and one's involvement in “gold, silver, and copper” in order to make a dwelling place for Hashem in this world, must be done with one's “head held high,” and the power to do so comes from “I am Hashem your G-d”: as Hashem's bride, one receives the “twenty-four adornments of a bride” etc.Excerpt from sichah of 12 Sivan 5742 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=05-06-2025 לזכות ר' ארי וזוגתו מרת רייזל שיחיו דבורקן ליום הנישואין שלהם ט' סיוןלברכה והצלחה בכל הענינים ‏בגו"ר

The Rebbe blesses the annual convention of Agudas N'shei U'Bnos Chabad, encouraging them to turn inspiration into action. Drawing from the weekly Torah portions, he emphasizes their mission to build a spiritual Mishkan even amid a desert of values, especially highlighting the unique role of women and the importance of early childhood education. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5476B

In this week's parsha, the Israelites are counted after being divided into the 12 tribes, each with their own mission. However, before they could take on those tasks, they needed to build the Mishkan, before all else, because the need for holiness should not be postponed. The holiday of Shevuot highlights the importance and urgency of this task and being unified. What is your personal Mishkan and what should you do with it? Listen and find out.

התוכן [המשך] ובזה שרש"י מציין "כמו שמצינו במעשה קרח", ששם היתה המיתה "בידי שמים", מביא ראי' למ"ש עה"פ לפנ"ז "והזר הקרב יומת" "בידי שמים", אף דבכ"מ שנאמר "יומת" (ולא "ימות") הכוונה בידי אדם. (ואף שכבר בפ' משפטים עה"פ "וגם בעליו יומת" פרש"י "בידי שמים", אבל שם אכן שואל "יכול בידי אדם" ומביא ראי' שזה "בידי שמים"). וההוראה מכל הנ"ל: כמו ב"מעשה קרח" לא "יצא (אפי') הקצף" (ולא רק העונש מיתה) עד שלא הקריבו הקטורת בפועל, ועד אז – אפי' לאחר שקרח הקהיל כל שבט לוי והציתם נגד "משה אמת ותורתו אמת" וכו' – הי' להם עוד נשיאת חן בעיני ה', ומשה חזר אחריהם שיחזרו בתשובה וכו', ועד"ז גם יהודי שחסר אצלו בענין של "שמירה מסביב למשכן", בהענין ד"הרחק מן העבירה" וכיו"ב, הנה כ"ז שאין הענין בפועל, ה"ה נושא חן גם "בעיני האלקים" – מדת הדין, ו"הקב"ה עוזרו" וכו' ובודאי ש"בל ידח ממנו נדח".משיחת מוצש"ק פ' במדבר, מבה"ח וער"ח סיון ה'תשל"ט ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=27-05-2025 Synopsis [Continued.] By citing “the incident of Korach,” where the punishment was by the hand of Heaven, Rashi gives proof to his explanation in the earlier verse, “any layperson who approaches will be put to death” that “put to death” means “by the hand of heaven,” unlike most instances of the word יומת (as opposed to ימות) which mean death by the court. (Although Rashi already explained in Mishpatim on the verse, “its owner, too, shall be put to death (יומת)” that it means by the hand of heaven, nevertheless, there he asks explicitly, “Perhaps it means by the hand of man?” and brings a proof that it means by the hand of Heaven.) The lesson from all this is that just as in the incident of Korach, even the “wrath” (let alone the punishment of death) was not unleashed until they actually offered the ketores, and moreover, even after Korach gathered the tribe of Levi and incited them against Moshe, they still found favor in Hashem's eyes, and Moshe sought to bring them to do teshuvah etc., similarly, if a Jew is lacking in his service of “guarding around the Mishkan” (distancing himself from sin) and the like, as long as he doesn't actually sin, he finds favor in “the eyes of G-d” (the attribute of judgment), and “The Holy One, blessed be He, assists him,” and it is certain that “he who is banished will not remain banished.”Excerpt from sichah of Motzaei Shabbos parashas Bamidbar, Erev Rosh Chodesh Sivan 5739 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=27-05-2025

התוכן עה"פ [בשני דפ' במדבר] והלויים יחנו סביב למשכן העדות ולא יהי' קצף על עדת בנ"י וגו'", מפרש"י: "אם תעשו כמצותי לא יהי' קצף, ואם לאו, שיכנסו זרים בעבודתם זו, יהי' קצף, כמו שמצינו במעשה קרח כי יצא הקצף וגו'". וצ"ל: 1) מה קשה בפשש"מ? 2) הרי "מכלל לאו אתה שומע לאו", ומדוע צריך לפרט "ואם לאו, שיכנסו זרים בעבודתם זו"? 3) למה צריך הראי' מ"מעשה קרח"? והביאור: בפסוק שלפנ"ז כתוב "והזר הקרב יומת", וקשה: מהו ענין ה"קצף" שמוסיף בפסוק זה? והיו יכולים לפרש, דמ"ש "יומת" קאי על זר שנכנס בפועל, אבל אם זר לא נכנס בפועל, ורק לא התקיים מ"ש בפסוק זה, שהלויים לא שמרו מסביב למשכן (שנתנו האפשריות שזר יכנס), אז (לא יהי' "יומת", רק) "יהי' קצף". וזהו מה שרש"י שולל ומפרט "ואם לאו, שיכנסו זרים בעבודתם זו", רק אז יהי' "קצף", נוסף על ענין ה"מיתה" שבפסוק שלפנ"ז. ומוכיח זאת מ"מעשה קרח" שנאמר שם "יצא הקצף": 1) שלא הי' ענין הקצף עד הקטרת הקטורת ע"י הזרים בפועל (אף שהפסקת השמירה על המשכן ע"י הלויים היתה לפנ"ז כשהתאספו אצל קרח). 2) שנוסף על ענין ה"מיתה" אצל ה-250 איש, הי' גם "קצף" כללי וכו'. [המשך יבוא]ד חלקים משיחת מוצש"ק פ' במדבר, מבה"ח וער"ח סיון ה'תשל"ט ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=26-05-2025 Synopsis On the verse [in sheini of parashas Bamidbar] “And the Levi'im must encamp around the Mishkan of Testimony, so that there will be no wrath against the community of the Jewish people,” Rashi explains: “If you do as I have commanded, there will be no wrath; but if not, and laypersons venture into this service of theirs, there will be wrath, as we find in the incident of Korach, ‘for wrath has gone forth….'” A number of questions arise: (1) What is difficult here in the plain meaning of the verse? (2) We know that “From a negative statement you can infer a positive statement” – so why is it necessary to spell out that “but if not, and laypersons venture into their service of theirs…”? (3) Why does Rashi need to bring a proof from the “incident of Korach”? The explanation is as follows: A previous verse states, “any layperson who approaches will be put to death”; therefore, the question is why this verse adds this idea of “wrath”? A possible explanation would be that the earlier verse, which mentions the death penalty, applies when a layperson actually enters, whereas this verse teaches that if the Levi'im failed to guard the Mishkan as required (creating the possibility for layperson to enter), but no layperson actually entered, then (there would be no death penalty but) there would be “wrath.” But Rashi negates this explanation by saying, “but if not, and laypersons venture into this service of theirs” – only then will there be “wrath” (in addition to the death penalty mentioned in the earlier verse). Rashi proves this from the incident of Korach, where it says, “for wrath has gone forth,” indicating that (1) there was no wrath until the non-Kohanim actually offered the ketores (even though the Levi'im had already ceased guarding the Mishkan earlier, when they joined with Korach); and (2) in addition to the punishment of death upon the 250 men, there was also a general “wrath” etc. [To be continued.]4 excerpts from sichah of Motzaei Shabbos parashas Bamidbar, Erev Rosh Chodesh Sivan 5739 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=26-05-2025

   In this episode we take a closer look at why Rashi understands that the key theme of Shoftim is developing the Mishkan. How do we reconcile this idea with the main narrative of the Sefer that talks about the problems of the times with Avoda Zara? We also discuss Chazal attributing authorship of the Sefer to Shmuel. How did they know this? What does this teach us about the Sefer?   Similarly, we look at the basic theme of Shmuel. Why do we call the Sefer called Shmuel and not Dovid? Isn't Dovid the protagonist for more of the Sefer than Shmuel? Similarly, why does the Sefer include the stories of Eli in Shmuel and not in Shoftim? And also why are the last stories of Dovid in Melachim? Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join!  For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS  

When the Levites Camp Around the Mishkan, It Prevents Anger Against the Bnei Yisroel

   In this episode, we continue looking at the challenge of understanding the Sifrey Tanach at the Sefer level. We also discuss the importance of properly understanding the classics and how much time we should be willing to invest in this. And similarly we discuss the issue of not forcing our ideas on Tanach, rather patiently developing the intrinsic ideas.    We also look at the Sefer level theme of Sefer Shoftim. What is the key theme of the Sefer? Why did they build the Mishkan in Shilo, if Jerusalem is the ideal place to build the Mikdash? Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join!  For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS  

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For weeks we have been wading through the many ritual laws of the book of Leviticus, known in Hebrew as Vayikra.  In short, Vayikra consists of rules about a specific holy place (Mishkan), with very specific kinds of sacrifices (korbanot), that can only be performed by a specific group of people, the priests (Cohanim), who are the mediators between God and the Israelites.And then this week's double portion, Acharei Mot-Kedoshim, arrives on the scene and everything changes. We get what is affectionately referred to as the “Holiness Code.”Each week, a member of the clergy offers their personal perspective on a topic of their choice, such as the week's Torah portion, a Jewish holiday, ritual, custom, or history. Facebook: Wilshire Boulevard TempleWebsite: wbtla.orgYoutube: Wilshire Boulevard TempleInstagram: wilshireboulevardtemple

Brent Billings, Elle Grover Fricks, and Josh Bossé close out this series by taking a gander at the Lord's Prayer.BEMA 97: Done in SecretBEMA 332: Andrew DeCort — Flourishing on the Edge of FaithTextus Receptus — WikipediaCodex Sinaiticus — WikipediaCodex Vaticanus — WikipediaAlexandrian Text-Type — WikipediaByzantine Text-Type — Wikipedia“Ancient Amulets with Incipits” — Biblical Archaeology Society“The Lord's Prayer” (Live from Jerusalem in 2001) — Charlotte Church, YouTubeBEMA 325: Sanctuary — Waking Up in the Mishkan

Parashat Acharei Mot begins by telling us that Hashem spoke to Moshe after the tragic deaths of Nadav and Avihu, who died while attempting to draw closer to Hashem. Though their death was a colossal tragedy, the Torah teaches us how to view it—and more broadly, how to understand when tragedy befalls righteous individuals especially when they are engaged in holy pursuits. At that time, the Jewish people were yearning for the Shechina to dwell in the Mishkan they had built. After the sin of the Egel , they were unsure whether Hashem would rest His presence among them. On the day of the inauguration, Aharon offered multiple korbanot as instructed, but still, the Shechina did not descend. Only after Moshe and Aharon entered the Ohel Mo'ed to pray did a heavenly fire come down and consume the offerings. The people rejoiced—Hashem had forgiven them and chosen to dwell among them. In their deep yearning and love for Hashem, Nadav and Avihu brought the Ketoret on their own initiative. Then, the unimaginable happened: another fire came down and consumed them. Everyone was in shock. Was this a sign of Hashem's anger? Did it mean the forgiveness was rescinded? Moshe then told Aharon that Hashem had previously said He would be sanctified through the deaths of great people—and Nadav and Avihu were those chosen Tzaddikim. The Torah testifies that when Aharon heard this, " וידם אהרן "—he remained silent , accepting Hashem's will without protest. As a reward for his profound emunah and submission, Hashem then spoke directly to him. What appeared to be divine punishment was, in fact, a great Kiddush Hashem . The Or HaChayim explains that Nadav and Avihu became so spiritually elevated that their souls desired only closeness to Hashem and no longer wished to remain in the physical world. Today, we lack prophets to explain tragedies, but we have the Torah—eternal and unchanging—to guide us in how to view them. Our greatest strength lies in trusting Hashem and using pain as a catalyst for growth. We are reminded that this world is temporary, and every moment here is an opportunity to serve and connect with our Creator. The Rashbam writes that the greatest Kiddush Hashem on that day was not the death of the tzadikim , but Aharon's silent acceptance. Seeing his beloved sons die before him, he continued to serve Hashem with unwavering devotion. That act sanctified the Mishkan more than any offering brought that day. When a person accepts Hashem's judgment with love, he elevates not only himself but also the space around him. Such acceptance carries a powerful spiritual energy, capable of invoking blessing and even salvation. The sanctity of Har HaBayit , where the Beit HaMikdash would one day stand, was similarly established through Avraham Avinu's loving acceptance of Hashem's will. When commanded to offer Yitzchak as a korban, despite the contradiction to Hashem's earlier promise that his future offspring would come through Yitzchak, Avraham did not question. The Targum Yonatan on the passuk יראה ויקרא שם המקום ה ' explains that Avraham prayed not to harbor any complaints, fully submitting himself to Hashem's will. His wholehearted obedience imbued the mountain with eternal holiness. Just as the Mishkan was sanctified through Aharon's faith, and the Beit HaMikdash through Avraham's, so too can we infuse holiness into our lives and surroundings by accepting Hashem's decrees with love and trust. Whenever a person accepts the will of Hashem with love, although it's difficult, he elevates himself and the place around him. Our job is to trust Hashem and always continue growing in our Avodah no matter what happens.

Stay updated via WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LcLgVe52sIw4yyUW3RG1wZFind out about our programmes, journals, and books: www.TheHabura.comWe are an online and global Bet Midrash with international students, striving to know God by embracing the world through the lens of Torah. Web: www.TheHabura.com Instagram: @TheHabura Facebook: The Habura A project of the Senior Rabbi's Office (www.seniorrabbi.com), S&P Sephardi Community of the UK, Montefiore Endowment, and Dangoor Education.#torah #talmud #yeshiva #betmidrash #sephardi #sepharadi #sephardic #sefardi #sefardic #rambam Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us for a 3-part series as we investigate sacred space and sacrificial worship, exploring the relevant pesuqim in Shemot and Vayiqra.Why does the Torah dedicate so much to the Mishkan and Qorbanot?What do these ancient laws teach us about holiness, structure, and divine presence?How do Hazal and modern scholars understand their meaning?Freddie Grunsfeld is a student of The Habura and an IDF soldier based in Alon Shevut. Born into the Syrian-Sephardic community of Brooklyn, he made Aliyah to study at Yeshivat Har Etzion. After a year in the Armored Corps, he now serves as an Intelligence NCO. Freddie also studies and teaches Miqra and Halakha according to the Sepharadi tradition. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Parshas Shemini: Called to Lead On the eighth day of the Mishkan's inauguration, Aaron steps into his new role—but not without fear. Why does the Torah say his offering must be “for you”? The Ohr HaChaim and Rashi teach that true leadership begins with personal accountability. Before Aaron could serve the nation, he had to believe he was worthy. This episode explores how real growth starts with sincerity, not perfection. We're not called to lead because we're flawless—we're called because we're willing to show up real. In honor of Eretz Yisroel – May G-d protect our brave soldiers and return all the hostages in Gaza immediately. Dedicated in loving memory of: Edward Ben Efraim | Shlomo Ben Edward | Yirachmiel Daniel Ben Gedalia For the Refuah Shlema of: Pesha Henna Bas Yitta Gittel and Pennina Bas Miriam Shoshana

The Torah in Parashat Shemini introduces the subject of "Ma'achalot Asurot" – the forbidden foods, outlining the general principles that govern which foods are permissible for consumption and which are not. In its conclusion of this topic, the Torah connects these laws to the concept of Kedusha, the sanctity of Beneh Yisrael: "Ve'hitkadishtem Vi'hyitem Kedoshim Ki Kadosh Ani" – "You shall sanctify yourselves and be sacred, for I am sacred…" (11:44). This association between "Ma'achalot Asurot" and the concept of Kedusha is underscored by the Rambam, who includes these laws in the "Kedusha" section of his halachic code. To explain this connection, Rav Eliyahu Bakshi-Doron (1941-2020), former Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Israel, draws our attention to an important passage in the Midrash Tanhuma (Shemini, 6), which offers an analogy to a doctor who visited two ailing patients. He noticed that the first patient was gravely ill with little chance of surviving, whereas the second was likely to recover. The doctor told the first patient's family member to feed him whichever foods he wanted, whereas the family of the second patient were given very strict instructions regarding the patient's diet. Since the first patient in any event was not likely to live, the doctor explained, he could be allowed to enjoy whichever foods he wished. The second, however, had the potential to live, and so he needed to care for his health so that he could recover. The Midrash explains that the same is true of Am Yisrael and the other nations of the world. While there is no physical difference between us, and our bodies are no different than the bodies of other peoples, we are destined to "live," as the verse says in the Book of Debarim (4:4), "Ve'atem Ha'debekim B'Hashem Elokechem Haim Kulechem" – "And you, who are attached to Hashem your G-d, are living." Rav Bakshi-Doron explains that we are destined to receive a portion in the next world, in the eternal afterlife, where our souls will exist together with Hashem, and this is the "life" to which we are uniquely destined. We are "sacred" in the sense that we are given the potential to build a special connection with the Almighty. Therefore, we are given a special "diet" that we must follow. We of course do not understand the spiritual effects of kosher food and non-kosher food, but Hashem Himself – the greatest "doctor" – informed us of which foods we must abstain from in order to preserve our spiritual health so we can build a unique connection with Him and become the holy people that we are meant to become. Rav Bakshi-Doron adds that this explains why the laws of "Ma'achalot Asurot" appear here in Parashat Shemini, which also tells of the events that took place when the Mishkan was inaugurated. The purpose of the Mishkan, as Hashem famously told Moshe back in Parashat Teruma (Shemot 25:8), is "Ve'shachanti Be'tocham" – that Hashem would reside among His people. Through the Mishkan, Hashem came to live intimately with us, to dwell within each and every member of our nation. The Mishkan, then, signifies the special relationship that we are to build with our Creator, the unique spiritual potential that we have been given. This is the connection between the Mishkan – the most powerful symbol of our unique spiritual potential – and "Ma'achalot Asurot," the laws we must observe in order to bring that potential into fruition. Hashem chose us to become a special nation – and to that end, He equipped us with special potential and abilities. This does not mean we are naturally better than others – rather, it means that we are given the responsibility and the challenge to rise to greater heights, and we are guaranteed the ability to meet this challenge if we truly strive to. Once we recognize our unique spiritual mission, and the unique potential we have to complete this mission, we will feel more confident and more driven to pursue spiritual greatness, to maximize our potential, and become the great people that we are expected to become.

In this shiur, delivered in Sharfmans, Rav Burg explains the inner nature of the sin of Nadav and Avihu. What does it mean that they were drunk? Why is Ahron HaKohen told to communicate the issur about being drunk in the Mishkan for all generations? There is a difference between religious and spiritual. Religion is about serving Hashem the way He wants to be served. Spirituality is about serving Hashem with all of our heart. When we combine being religious and spiritual is when we are truly serving Hashem wholeheartedly.

Rav Moshe Feinstein asks why Moshe seemingly skipped a standard Halacha regarding Korbanot on the very first day of the use of the Mishkan.

התוכן דוקא ביום השמיני למילואים, שאז הקריבו את עגל החטאת ככפרה על חטא העגל, שרתה השכינה במשכן [כמ"ש בשני דפ' שמיני]. והביאור: הערב-רב עשו את העגל (לא ככפירה בה' ח"ו, אלא) שתהי' "ממוצע" בין ה' ובנ"י, כי חשבו, שכיון שה' הוא כ"כ נעלה לא שייך קשר ישיר בינו לבין בשר-ודם שמונח בענינים גשמיים, ודוקא כשמבטלים מחשבה כזאת ולוקחים את "עגל" הזה ושורפים אותו לקדושה שייך להיות השראת השכינה במשכן. ועד"ז במשכן הפרטי שבכ"א, גם א' שבנה "בנין" של תומ"צ, לא שייך להיות בו השראת השכינה כל זמן שחושב שבעת אכילתו ושתייתו ומסחרו וכו' לא שייך לעבוד את ה', ו"ככל הגוים בית ישראל". דוקא כשיש ההכרה של "בכל דרכיך דעהו" ו"אין עוד מלבדו" שייך להיות בו וב"מעשה ידיו" השראת השכינה.משיחת פורים ה'תשי”ז ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=21-04-2025 Synopsis The Shechinah did not rest in the Mishkan until the eighth day of its inauguration, when they brought the sin-offering calf in atonement for the sin of the golden calf [as it says in Sheini of parashas Shemini]. The erev rav made the golden calf not in denial of Hashem's existence, but as an “intermediary” between Hashem and the Jewish people, because they erroneously thought that Hashem is too high for a mere mortal dealing with worldly matters to have a direct connection with Him; specifically by negating this notion – by taking a calf and burning it as a an offering for holiness, the Shechinah was able to dwell in the Mishkan. The same applies to the personal Mishkan within every individual: Even if someone has built a structure of Torah and mitzvos, the Shechinah cannot dwell in it as long as he subscribes to the notion that he can't serve Hashem when it comes to eating, drinking, and business dealings, etc. and that when it comes to these matters he is “like all the nations.” It is specifically when one recognizes that he must “know Him in all your ways,” and that There is nothing besides Him, that the Shechinah can dwell upon him and upon his “handiwork.”Excerpt from sichah of Purim 5717. For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=21-04-2025

" בניסן נגאלו ובניסן עתידין להיגאל "—just as our ancestors were redeemed in Nissan, so too will we be redeemed in Nissan. As we enter this glorious month, our hopes are higher than ever for the coming of Mashiach. We have been learning about the days of Mashiach in the Daf Yomi, and we see events unfolding in the world at large. It is up to us to do our part. Chazal teach us that our forefathers were redeemed from Mitzrayim in the merit of their emunah, and we, too, will be redeemed through our emunah. But what kind of emunah do we need? When the women brought their copper mirrors as donations for the Mishkan, Moshe Rabbenu initially did not want to accept them. However, Hashem told him that these mirrors were more precious to Him than anything else—more beloved than the menorah, which represents Torah, more than the mizbe'ach, which represents tefillah, and more than the shulchan, which represents tzedakah. What was so special about these mirrors? The men in Mitzrayim were suffering terribly. They had lost their will to continue, feeling that all their labor was in vain. The women used these mirrors to beautify themselves and encourage their husbands, giving them the strength to carry on. They reassured them, reminding them that there was a future—that Hashem runs the world. Their chizuk empowered their husbands to persevere and fulfill Hashem's will, even under the most trying conditions. The Tikkunei Zohar describes how Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, when looking into the future, saw the generation before Mashiach and lamented, " ווי מאן דיזדמן בהאי זמנא "—Woe to those who will live in that time. Yet, he also said, " זכאה מאן דמשתכח בההוא זמנא וקיים בהימנותא "—Fortunate are those who will be in that time and hold strong in their emunah. Our Rabbis have told us that we are living in the עקבתא דמשיחא , the final generation before Mashiach. We are the very ones that the Zohar was speaking about. One might ask: throughout history, our people have endured immense suffering—the Holocaust and many other persecutions. By contrast, today, baruch Hashem , we live with religious freedom. Why, then, did the Zohar express such concern for this generation? A great rabbi once explained that while, as a nation, we may have it good, if we examine individual households, we will find so many struggling with personal challenges. The pain people carry is often hidden. Just the other week, in a single day, I was approached by eight different individuals seeking chizuk. One had just been told that his wife might lose her pregnancy. Another had suddenly and tragically lost her husband. One had been diagnosed with a terminal illness. Another was at risk of going to jail. One had a sick child, another was struggling with business problems, and yet another was facing shalom bayit issues. Late that night, as I was leaving shul, a husband and wife approached me. The woman began to speak about her daughter, who was having an extremely difficult time with shidduchim. At first, I expected the conversation to be like the others I had that day. But then she surprised me. She wasn't downcast at all. She told me that, eight years ago, she started a nightly emunah conference in the zechut of her daughter finding a shidduch. Today, over 400 women participate. And through it, she has gained an unshakable emunah—like a pillar of fire. She is so grateful to Hashem for all He gives her each day. She goes to other people's weddings with complete joy, celebrating without a trace of jealousy. Her emunah is contagious. Wherever she goes, she uplifts others, infusing them with strength and faith. This is exactly what the Zohar meant: Fortunate are those who live in this time and have emunah. Today, so many struggle with personal darkness. But those who find a way to rise above it and praise Hashem, despite their hardships, shine the brightest. In previous generations, our ancestors were like burning torches, illuminating the world with their Torah and mitzvot—but they lived in broad daylight. In contrast, we may be but small flames, yet we are burning in the thickest darkness. Though we may not reach the Torah and mitzvah observance of previous generations, we have an extraordinary opportunity. We can shine with our emunah, something so precious to Hashem. May Hashem strengthen our emunah and grant us the merit to greet Mashiach in this great month of Nissan. Amen.

The pasuk in this week's parsha states: " ויקרא אל משה וידבר ה' אליו מאהל מועד לאמר " - Hashem called to Moshe, and then Moshe entered to speak with Him. At the end of Parashat Pekudei, it says that Moshe was unable to enter the Ohel Mo'ed because the cloud of Hashem had descended upon it. However, in Parashat Mishpatim, it states that Moshe entered the cloud of Hashem at Har Sinai, which seems to indicate that he was able to enter. The Ohr HaChaim explains that in that instance, it first says " ויקרא אל משה " , meaning Hashem called Moshe in first. A person cannot simply enter a place where the Shechina resides. However, if Hashem calls the person in, then it becomes possible. That is why Parashat Vayikra begins with Hashem calling Moshe to enter the Ohel Mo'ed. What did Moshe do to merit this calling? The Shevet Mussar explains that Moshe did not contribute any donations toward the Mishkan, even though he was in charge of its construction. Specifically because he did not contribute, Moshe was chosen for this role—so that no one could ever claim personal credit for building Hashem's house. The Midrash states that the phrase " כאשר צוה ה' את משה " appears 18 times regarding the Mishkan. It gives a parable of a king who commanded his servant to build him a palace. On each part that the servant built, he wrote the name of the king—on the walls, on the pillars, on every detail of the palace. When the king entered and saw his name everywhere, he said: "My servant has honored me so much, and yet I am inside while he remains outside." Immediately, the king called his servant to enter the palace. Similarly, when Hashem instructed Moshe to construct the Mishkan, Moshe "wrote" on everything " כאשר צוה ה' את משה " . Hashem saw that Moshe had given Him all the honor, while he himself remained outside. In response, Hashem called Moshe inside. The phrase " כאשר צוה ה' את משה " reflects Moshe's complete self-nullification. He did not take any credit for his role; rather, he attributed everything to Hashem. Even though Moshe did not physically build the Mishkan, he stood by the workers, reminding them that their strength and talent came from Hashem. He even reminded Betzalel, despite his wisdom, not to lose focus and to recognize that all his abilities were granted by Hashem. The one who did not physically labor was the one invited in—because he gave Hashem the most honor. Humility, in which a person attributes everything to Hashem, brings Hashem honor. In turn, Hashem honors that person. The letter Aleph in Vayikra is small. The Gemara explains that in Moshe's humility, he wanted it to appear as Vayikar (without the Aleph ), implying that Hashem " ויקר -happened" to appear to him, rather than explicitly calling him. He wrote the Aleph small so it would not seem as though he was exceptionally deserving. In the end, Hashem used the extra ink from the small Aleph to make Moshe's face shine. Moshe's name is absent from the Haggadah because Yetziat Mitzrayim was meant to teach for all generations that Hashem alone controls the world. One of the reasons Moshe was chosen as the leader was because he was willing to remove himself from the story and give all credit to Hashem. His humility allowed him to gain immeasurably. Each day, we have the opportunity to serve Hashem in this way. The more we attribute everything we have and do to HaKadosh Baruch Hu , the more He rests His presence upon us. If we internalize that all success comes solely from Him, we truly honor Hashem—and in that merit, may He call us closer to Him. We all desire closeness with Hashem. The path to achieving it is through humility—by recognizing that everything we have and everything we accomplish is entirely from Him. Shabbat Shalom.

The tragedy that has just struck our community has affected the entire Klal Yisrael. On Shabbat Kodesh, Erev Rosh Chodesh Nisan, our world was shaken. Three holy nishamot ascended to Gan Eden Ha'Elyon as korbanot olat . נסתרים דרכי ה . The ways of HaShem are beyond us. From our vantage point, we see tragedy, we see pain and suffering, and we see difficult days ahead. In shamayim , there's a completely different picture, one in which we are not privy to see. The Navi tells us, the day will come when בלע המות לנצח ומחה ה' אלקים דמעה מעל כל פנים , death will cease and HaShem will wipe away all of our tears. The Gemara says this means that HaShem , with all of His splendor and glory, will personally console every individual for all of the tragedies and hardships that they had to suffer in this world. At that time, He will explain how it was all done with love and mercy, and then we will be fully consoled. For now, we look toward the Torah for guidance. The Torah tells us that on Rosh Chodesh Nisan, at one of the happiest times in all of history, the inauguration of the Mishkan , two of the greatest tzaddikim of the time were taken. It was a year like this, in that Rosh Chodesh Nisan fell out on the first day of the week. HaShem said, בקרבי אקדש -His name becomes sanctified by taking the ones that are closest to him. We have no concept of what the death of tzaddikim accomplishes. We do know that it elevates the name of HaShem . We do know that it atones for us, and we do know that it brings us closer to the Geula, but there's so much that we don't know. As far as we are concerned, the Torah tells us, וכל בית ישראל יבכו את השרפה , we are to feel the pain of the mourners and cry along with them. We want so badly for them to have consolation. It's hard for us to go through our regular day now without thinking about this tragedy. This is one of our strengths. We share in the burden of our friend's pain. The Gemara says כל המרחם על הבריות מרחמין עליו מן השמים , simply this means whoever shows compassion to others is treated compassionately by HaShem . The Rishner Rebbe, however, explained this line a little differently. When a person deals compassionately with his friend in pain, then HaShem gives extra compassion to that person in pain. By sharing some of his burden, we are able to alleviate his pain. If the ones who left this world would be able to talk to us right now, they would say, we are fine. We have reached the place that we came down to this world to get to . And seeing this world from their vantage point, they would tell us to utilize every moment that we have wisely and to resolve to improve in our service of HaShem . If we don't feel like doing something in the physical realms now because of the tragedy, that's okay. But we should not let this cause us to refrain from doing anything spiritually. If we make any improvement whatsoever in our service of HaShem , we will be directly benefiting the three holy souls, because they will be rewarded for whatever we do, because they have caused it. They would also tell us to please strengthen yourselves, to please utilize your time in this world to do what's important. Strengthen your marriages, be a better parent, be a better friend, make Shalom. Don't let petty things bother you. If we can commit to being stronger in our service of HaShem , we will not only be benefiting the Niftarim , we'll be benefiting the family left back as well. Now is the time of year that is the most auspicious for Geula. If the Jewish people at large become awakened to improve in their service of HaShem , be'ezrat Hashem this will be the last thing that we need for the M a sia c h to come . May HaShem console the mourners and console all of us, and may the family be reunited speedily with the coming of the M a sia c h soon. Amen.

In last week's Torah portion of Pekudei, towards the end, we read how Moshe basically finishes building the Mishkan. He stops all donations, no more money is necessary, all the vessels have been constructed, everything's ready to roll, and they put up the Mishkan. Moshe supervises that, and then it says that the cloud of [...] The post Parshat Pekudei – Investing in Our Future appeared first on Jewish Wisdom.

Parshas Pekudei: Redemption In Progress As Moshe completes the Mishkan, the Torah repeats the word Mishkan—but why? According to Rashi and the Kli Yakar, this repetition points to both the physical sanctuary below and the spiritual Mishkan above. It reflects not just what was built, but what is still being held in trust—a divine collateral for redemption yet to come. The Lubavitcher Rebbe taught that our generation is the final step before Geulah. Every mitzvah, every act of faith, adds a brick to the future. Even in moments of exile or uncertainty, we're not just enduring—we're building.

Living Emunah 2738 Parashat Pekudei: No Matter What In the beginning of parashat Pekudei, the Torah calls the Mishkan, the Mishkan of testimony. One of the things it testified to was Hashem's great love for us. The Mefarshim are bothered why the Torah repeats so much about the Mishkan in parashiyot Vayakhel and Pekudei, after they were already mentioned in Terumah Tetzaveh. Some explain the Jewish people were commanded to build a house for Hashem before they did the Chet Haegel. After they committed that grievous sin, they felt so distanced from Hashem and feared they would never be able to bring His presence down to dwell amongst them. However, after they made Teshuva, Hashem told Moshe to tell the Jewish people that He wants the exact same Mishkan built with every detail and that He was going to dwell with them. And that is why the details are repeated after the Chet Haegel. We see from here that no matter what a Jew does, Hashem always wants him back. We should never feel that because of our sins that Hashem doesn't want us. All we have to do is say that we are sorry and Hashem will be waiting with open arms, kavyachol, to bring us closer. Rabbi Snir Gueta told a story about a young woman named Shlomit. After years of waiting for a child, her parents were blessed with her birth. Tragically, a few years later, her mother fell ill and passed away, leaving her father to raise her alone. He tried his best to connect to his daughter and give her all the love and attention that he could. As she grew during her teenage years, she began drifting from the religious path that he was trying so hard to keep her on. As she got older, she drifted further until she was constantly arguing with her father about religion. She told him outright she was not interested in being religious. Her father kept telling her that he promised her mother that he would raise her to be a true Bat Yisrael, but she wouldn't change. One day she told her father she was leaving home and moving to India. Her father yelled at her, saying that she was being so insensitive, ignoring his request and leaving him all alone. She apologized for leaving him, but said she was going no matter what. Her father, in a moment of desperation, said to her, "If you leave, you are not welcome back. I will never forgive you for this." Her friends were waiting outside, and she left. She was in India for three years. At that time, one of her friends from Israel traveled there, and when she saw her, she hugged her, telling her how much she missed her. And then she gave her her condolences over the death of her father. Shlomit couldn't believe what she was hearing. She had no idea that her father passed away. She began crying uncontrollably, regretting the nonsense that she had been involved in over the past three years, completely abandoning her father and Hashem. She took the next flight back to Israel, and went straight to the cemetery, searching for her father's grave. When she finally found it, she sat there, crying, begging for him to forgive her. She said, "Please, Abba, I made the worst mistake. I will come back to Hashem now. All I want is for you to forgive me." She then went to the Kotel. She stood right by the mechitza between the men and women, and pulled out a piece of paper and wrote a note to Hashem, asking Him to please show her if her father forgave her for what she did. She put the note in the wall, and it immediately fell out. There was no room in any hole there for her note. She saw by the edge of the mechitza, in the men's section, an opening, and she put it there. When she put it down, another note fell out. She picked it up, and saw the name Shlomit bat Chana. She opened it, and began to read, and started to tremble. It said, "Borei olam, my daughter is in India, please bring her back to Teshuva. Her name is Shlomit Bat Chana. If I could talk to her right now, I would tell her that I forgive her for everything. All I want is for her to come back to You, Hashem." Shlomit broke out in tears, and thanked Hashem, and fully came back to Torah and Mitzvot. A human father is willing to take his daughter back, no matter what she does. All the more so, Hakadosh Baruch Hu wants every one of His children back, no matter what they have done. Hashem loves and wants every Jew close to Him. All we have to do is be sincere. Shabbat Shalom.

Send us a textThe tension between accomplishment and humility stands at the heart of Jewish spiritual life. How do we strive for greatness while remaining modest? This profound question finds its answer in Parsha Pekudei's account of the Mishkan's construction.When the impossibly heavy beams of the Mishkan needed to be erected, no one—not even Moshe—possessed the physical strength to lift them. Confronted with this impossible task, Moshe turned to Hashem, who offered a life-changing instruction: "Occupy yourself with your hands." Make the effort, and the impossible will happen through divine assistance. This teaching parallels other biblical moments where humans faced impossible challenges—Moshe being asked to count children inside homes without entering, and Avraham being commanded to count the stars.The pattern reveals a fundamental spiritual principle: we must exert our maximum effort even when success seems beyond reach. Whether in Torah study, building families in challenging times, or professional pursuits, our obligation is to try—to get our hands dirty in sincere effort. Only after we've done our part does Hashem step in, making the crushing weight feel light, making the stars countable, making the impossible happen.Yet this raises another challenge: how do we remain humble after experiencing success? The answer lies in recognizing the true source of all achievement. Like a parent supporting a milk carton while a child believes they're pouring it independently, Hashem provides the strength behind our accomplishments. We may direct the effort, but He powers the outcome.This delicate balance between striving and humility creates the perfect Jewish approach to life. Work diligently, attempt the impossible, create vessels for blessing—then watch as divine assistance transforms your efforts into accomplishments beyond your natural abilities. And when success comes, remember who truly lifted the weight.What impossible challenge are you facing today? Remember: your job is to put your hands on it. The rest will come from above.Support the showJoin The Motivation Congregation WhatsApp community for daily motivational Torah content!Elevate your impact by becoming a TMC Emerald Donor! Your much-needed backing is crucial for our mission of disseminating the wisdom of the Torah. Join today for just $18.00 per month. (Use your maaser money!) https://buy.stripe.com/00g8xl5IT8dFcKc5ky------------------Check out our other Torah Podcasts and content! SUBSCRIBE to The Motivation Congregation Podcast for daily motivational Mussar! Listen on Spotify or 24six! Find all Torah talks and listen to featured episodes on our website, themotivationcongregation.org Questions or Comments? Please email me @ michaelbrooke97@gmail.com

This episode explains why the Mishkan was constructed and deconstructed every single day of the Miluim.

Shiur given by Rabbi Bezalel Rudinsky on Parsha 03 Shemos. Shiur recorded in Yeshivas Ohr Reuven, Monsey, NY.

Ramban on the Torah | 5785 | 22 | Pekudei, by Rav Eli Weber What is the second half of Sefer Shemot about? Was Moshe wrong about the order of building the Mishkan? Why do we need to devote ourselves to building the Mishkan?

What special traits were required be the builders of the Mishkan, and how can we accomplish this lofty stature today.

In this week's parsha, the Israelites finally complete building the Mishkan, God's temporary dwelling place on earth. But finishing a task, or pausing en route to the Promised Land, doesn't mean that the journey is over or even on hold. What does a wise commentary by Rashi teach us about carrying on when we feel stuck? Tune in to find out.

Why does the Torah spend so much time repeating the Mishkan's details? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Rafael Polisuk explore Parshat Pekudei and its surprising focus on repetition and detail. They unpack the final verses of Sefer Shemot, … Read the rest The post Pekudei 5785: Living Torah first appeared on Elmad Online Learning. Continue reading Pekudei 5785: Living Torah at Elmad Online Learning.

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics:27 Adar What lessons do we learn from this day? Did the Rebbe say anything prior to this day preparing us for events to come? The chronology of this week's Torah portion and the following books of the Torah What is the central theme of this week's Torah chapter? Why is accountability so vital? What personal and global lessons does it offer us for our times? Why was a cloud descending on the Mishkan a sign of the Shechina's presence? How does Chassidus explain why the Parah Adumah purifies the impurity of death? And why does it impurify the pure? What is the source of your explanation on the progression of the four chapters? How do we apply Parshas HaChodesh to our lives today? Why is the period around Purim and Pesach connected to the obliteration of Amalek? Do we commemorate the erection of the Mishkan on Rosh Chodesh Nissan? Why are we not told to increase in joy in the month of Nissan? How do we prepare for Pesach thirty days before the holiday? Do our sages guarantee that the redemption will come in Nissan? How do we understand the statement that Moshe was the first redeemer and will be the last redeemer? Pekudei Parshas Parah/Four Parshios HaChodesh/Nissan/Pesach Would the Rebbe oppose the dismantling of the Department of Education? Is it appropriate for Rabbis to post political click-bait videos just to increase their views? Should we participate and vote in the upcoming World Zionist Congress election? Thank you for your programs 

So much of the Mishkan's beauty was totally hidden, this is not accidental but rather intentionally done and there is a major lesson we can learn from it.

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The pasuk in Parashat Vayakhel states that Hashem filled the hearts of Betzalel and Aholiav with wisdom to carry out the intricate work of constructing the Mishkan . Rav Shach asked: Why were these two individuals chosen over anyone else in Klal Yisrael ? He explained that when the people heard Moshe announce Hashem's command to build the Mishkan , no one wanted to take responsibility for such an overwhelming task. It seemed impossible. But Betzalel and Aholiav stepped forward, not because they already possessed the necessary skills, but because they believed in the mission. They understood that "it is not the capable who do, but rather those who do become capable." They wanted to take on the responsibility, and after Moshe appointed them, Hashem filled their hearts with the wisdom they needed to succeed. Their zechut has benefitted Kelal Yisrael for all generations. After David HaMelech killed Goliat, Goliat's brother sought revenge. A man named Elchanan ben Ya'areh struck Goliath's brother down with a weaving tool before he could cause harm. Rashi explains that Elchanan was a descendant of Betzalel, and in the zechut of Betzalel's weaving of the Parochet in the Mishkan , Hashem gave Elchanan the ability to eliminate this threat with the very same type of tool. Another powerful story is told about the father of Rabbi Aholiav Chiyun. He was 90 years old when his son was born. His wife, much younger than him, desperately wanted a child. She went to pray at the kever of Aholiav ben Achisamach in Sidon, and miraculously, they had a son. They named him Aholiav, attributing his birth to the zechut of Aholiav ben Achisamach. At four years old, however, the boy still had not begun to speak. His mother returned to the kever to pray again, bringing her son with her. Before she even finished her tefilla , he opened his mouth and asked her a question. She was so shocked that she nearly fainted. That boy later grew up to become a gadol b'Yisrael and was a chavruta of Chacham Ovadia Yosef in Yeshivat Porat Yosef . Betzalel and Aholiav stepped forward to do Hashem's will, and He gave them the ability to succeed. Their zechut continues forever. When a person is moser nefesh to do what is right, Hashem grants him special siyata dishmaya to accomplish it. Rabbi Goel Elkarif told a story that he heard directly from the person it happened to. Today, this man is a talmid chacham living in Yerushalayim. When he was in shidduchim , he was introduced to a girl with outstanding middot and deep yirat shamayim . However, no one told him that she suffered from a severe stuttering problem. When they met, he immediately noticed the issue. But because of his sterling character, he wasn't going to reject her solely because of it. They continued seeing each other. She was perfect in every way except for her extreme speech difficulty. With great emunah , he decided to move forward and got engaged to her. Amazingly, the day after their engagement, her stuttering disappeared completely and never returned. She had seen doctors, therapists, and specialists, but nothing had ever helped. Yet the moment she was engaged, the problem vanished. This chatan was moser nefesh to do what he believed was Hashem's will, and in return, Hashem gave him the greatest gift. Hashem can help us with anything. Our role is to do His will, and He will take care of the rest. Shabbat Shalom.

Most fights break out in shul on Shabbos - לֹא תְבַעֲרוּ אֵשׁ בְּכֹל מֹשְׁבֹתֵיכֶם בְּיוֹם הַשַּׁבָּת

Parshas Vayakhel: Beyond the Moment Why does the Torah pause the Mishkan's construction to emphasize Shabbos? The Ohr HaChaim teaches that Shabbos elevates our work, infusing it with divine purpose. True success isn't just effort—it's aligning with G-d's plan.

Plato argued that reality is found in perfect, unchanging ideals, while the physical world is merely a flawed reflection. Chassidic thought challenges this notion, asserting that G-d's presence is found precisely in the imperfect, physical world. Through the lens of this debate, we explored how this idea impacts our relationships, personal growth, and spiritual journey—showing that meaning and divine purpose emerge from engaging with reality as it is, rather than escaping to an idealized version of it.Key Takeaways:Plato's philosophy separates the ideal from the real, placing truth in abstract perfection.Kabbalah teaches that G-d's presence is in the here and now, within life's imperfections.The Torah's repetition of the Mishkan's construction emphasizes that holiness is not in a divine blueprint but in human action.Growth, relationships, and meaning are found in embracing life's struggles, not escaping them.True beauty is not perfection—it's the courage to build something holy in an imperfect world.Notes: See Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, The Dignity of Difference, for a detailed explanation of this idea of Plato and its impact on Western thought."G-d desired a dwelling in the lowly realms" (Midrash Tanchuma, Nasso 16);  "This is what man is all about, this is the purpose of his creation and of the creation of all worlds, supernal and ephemeral" (Tanya, chapter 36).#Kabbalah #Judaism #Plato #Rabbi #chabad #Jewish #Bible #BibleStudy #Torah #TorahPortion #TorahLessons #Vayakhel #ParshatVayakhelSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

How do we create a Jewish community that honors different perspectives? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Ilana Gleicher-Bloom explore Parshat Vayakhel and its vision of community. They discuss how Moshe transforms Bnei Yisrael from a fragmented group into a … Read the rest The post Vayakhel 5785: Building a Diverse Mishkan first appeared on Elmad Online Learning. Continue reading Vayakhel 5785: Building a Diverse Mishkan at Elmad Online Learning.

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics:Triple Purim (Meshulash) in Jerusalem  Adar How can joy increase after Purim? Is there a connection between joy and Purim and the sign of Pisces/fish of the month of Adar?  inner dimensions and secrets? How does joy revealWhat does Purim teach us about today's wars with our enemies? Why did Mordechai not bow to Haman (follow-up)? Why do the sages interpret that Esther was married to Mordechai (follow-up)? Why do we commemorate the Fast of Esther the day before Purim when the actual 3-day fast was in Nissan eleven months earlier? Is humor and light-heartedness allowed at other times, or only on Purim? Why don't we find humor in the written Torah? (follow-up) Will Moshiach have a sense of humor, or will that time be strictly serious?  Are we allowed to make fun of the Purim villains? What is the difference between frivolous and “holy” humor? What is the central theme of this week's Torah chapter? What personal and global lessons does it offer us for our times? What do we learn from the Jews donating for the Mishkan more than was needed? Should we be working toward transforming our enemies and not just annihilating them? 

Dedicated for the elevation of the neshama of Moshe Yaakov ben Asher Zelig, z"l, Dr. Alexander Kratz, of Bergenfield, New Jersey, sponsored by Elizabeth, Zippy, Hannah and Asher Kratz.