Why Are There Two Sets Of Luchos?
While the general juxtaposition of the mitzvos on the right and left sides of the Luchos carries fundamental significance, there is a powerful connection between the specific commandments on each side as well.
Don’t Shoot The Messenger
Our Gemara on amud beis notes that most people who fall ill eventually recover. This observation has legal implications in cases where a person on their deathbed bequeaths their estate to someone else, but later recovers.
Pecking Away
We would like to serve Hashem with a clear mind, when we feel relaxed and calm. In fact, to some degree we expect that when we try to do what is right, G-d should ensure that life is smooth and easy. After all, if we are trying to do His Will, shouldn’t He at least make it convenient to do so?!
Proof Of Ownership
The field of Efron had a bad reputation; it was said to be haunted. Anyone happening to wander into the field reported encountering a demon wielding a sword. As viable real estate it was worthless.
May One Defend Israel (Online Or In Conversations) From Purely Technical/Historical/Legal Perspectives, Without Invoking...
It is important that, in addition to our divine mandate, our presence in Eretz Yisrael is justified according to broadly accepted principles of justice and fairness.
The Cycle of Life Continuing
When Hashem created the world and mankind, He intended for there to be peace and harmony amongst all with holiness, goodness and truth to rule over the whole world.
The Only Reason I am Here
The past 13 months have taught us that the world respects us and fears us when we show strength, might, and Jewish pride, NOT when we cower, apologize, or take orders from others.
A Gift That Keeps On Giving
So, although on this occasion I had initially decided to go as a favor for a visiting friend, in the end it was I who gained the most from the mitzvah.
Zoom Conference
I understand that you now want two copies, Levi said. However, you already told Shimon to give your Ketzos to me, so now it’s mine. You can’t retract unilaterally!
Daf Yomi
The Priest Forbade Chametz
‘Acquired By Admission’
(Bava Basra 149a)
The Basics of Life – Parshat Vayeira
Hashem knew Avraham will pass on to the next generations - to keep the way of God.
Walking Together
There is an image that haunts us across the millennia, fraught with emotion. It is the image of a man and his son walking...
The Moroccan Uniform Nusach? The Story of the Nachalat Avot Siddur
The siddur’s opening pages include an introduction by Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Toledano, who describes the uniqueness and ancient character of the Moroccan nusach, while addressing much broader historical processes, which are usually not to be found in conservative siddurim...
Q & A: A Mother’s Mitzvah (Part III)
Isn’t the father in serious violation of the Torah by neglecting his children and not making any effort to provide them an education?
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How Mitzvot Help Us
According to the Rambam, mitzvot contribute not only to our spiritual development but also to our personal growth.
Attitudes Of The Rich And Successful
This discussion touches on a fundamental question: Are individuals truly self-made, or does familial and social support often play a role in their success?
Torah Shorts: Parshat Vayera: Angel, Merchant, Prophet, Doctor
I love people who make me laugh. I honestly think it's the thing I like most, to laugh. It cures a multitude of ills. It's probably the most important thing in a person. -Audrey Hepburn
The Status Of A Fetus In Halacha: What is the Definition of Life?
As a fetus grows and develops, it's possible that it becomes human, or at least more human, even if that is not originally the case when it is first conceived as a zygote.
A Glimpse Of Greatness
It is at this time that the kindness of Hashem becomes evident, for Hashem will repay him many times over for all his generous acts of tzedakah in the past, corresponding to his singular deed of selflessness now.
The Mitzvah Of Bikur Cholim (Part I)
Rav tells us that whoever goes to visit the sick, Nitzol m’dino shel Gehennom, will be saved from the punishment of Gehennom.
Our Mama Rachels Keep Crying: The Added Meaning of Rachel’s Cries This Year
In these difficult times, we, too, turn to Rachel Imeinu and her contemporary namesakes, the two Rachel Goldberg mothers, and ask them all to keep crying on our behalf.
Aseret Hadibrot: Oneness And Twoness
One unique feature of the Luchot is that there were two sets given to us. The original was created by Hashem and given to Moshe, whereas the second set was hewn by the hands of Moshe. However, the difference between these two sets is not simply practical; the two sets of Luchot are fundamentally different.
Daf Yomi Election Day Has Messages To Satisfy All Voters
Specifically, the daf discusses inheritance rights, and we are not talking about what kind of economy a presidential candidate inherited, but simply a question of inheritance of a private estate.
A Little Sweeter
We didn’t think much about it, and, in fact, we wouldn’t have even noticed that he didn’t bring anything. But then on Sunday night we discovered many candy wrappers on the floor and an empty platter on the floor in Shalom’s room.
Roped In
Who said anything about tying Yitzchak up? Hashem certainly didn’t tell Avraham to tie Yitzchak up, He told him to offer Yitzchak as an olah.
Is It Proper To Use Legal Loopholes To Pay Less In Taxes?
From a halachic and ethical perspective, it is appropriate to use legal methods to reduce tax obligations. If the government considers a certain tax deduction or credit inappropriate, it has the authority to amend or eliminate it.
Knight Of Faith
Rav Shagar points out certain thematic similarities between the trial of Avraham and that of Iyov. But Avraham excels and demonstrates his qualities by virtue of the outcome of his test while Iyov is criticized by Chazal for his responses.
Cast Your Bread Upon the Waters
With little choice, and even less time, I bought the clothes, thanked her and Hashem, and went to spend an uplifting Rosh Hashana, wondering if I’d ever see her again, and have the opportunity to pay her back.