Jun 11th, 2010
by rabbifink.
This week we read the story of Korach and his rebellion. The rebels were unhappy with the distribution of power in the Israelite camp and made their voices heard.
Technically, Korach and his followers were mored b’malchus, they rebelled against the defacto king of the Jewish people in the desert, Moshe. They attempted to undermine Moshe and the system of Kohanim and Leviim as it was implemented in the Mishkan and religious life of the Jewish people.
The roots of their sins are many and the opinions run the gamut of social and religious ills.
(more…)
Jun 4th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Shelach
Dvar Hashem Baza
Parshas Shlach Lecha is filled with lessons for eternity. Nestled in between the chet hameraglim and parshas tzizis is a fascinating phrase with significant halachic impact. The Torah tells us that an individual who transgresses the aveirah of avodah zarah intentionally is chayav kares. The reason given is ki dvar Hashem baza, the idolator has disgraced the word of Hashem.
The Gemara in Meseches Sanhedrin (99a) darshens many halachos from this phrase. One drasha is so extraordinary it seems not to go with the rest, (more…)
May 28th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parsha Beha’aloscha
Nisunim Nisunim
For three weeks we have been learning of the uniqueness, responsibility and leadership expected from the tribe of Yaakov and Leah’s third son, shevet Levi. The Rambam explains their role in his famous words which conclude hilchos shmitta v’yoveil and teaches us that shevet Levi is huvdal la’avod es Hashem l’sharso . . . as cheil Hashem. Moreover, the Rambam continues not only is shevet Levi so designated but any Yid, who wishes to devote his life to the total service of the Ribbono Shel Olam, is considered an honorary member of shevet Levi as well.
While parshiyos Bamidbar and Naso introduced us to the Levites role and their special tasks of the nosei haMishkan, Bahaaloscha defines their ascent to distinction. (more…)
May 28th, 2010
by rabbifink.
Cross-posted to Frumsatire.net
This week we read Parshas Beha’aloshca. Aside from being the most difficult parsha to transliterate a bit of trivia is present. The famous verse “Vayihi b’nsoa ha’aron” is found in the parsha and in the sefer Torah (and most Chumashim) it is surrounded by an upside down letter nun. One upside down nun before the verse and one upside down nun is after the verse. This strange phenomena needs some explanation.
Here is what it looks like in a Sefer Torah: (more…)
May 14th, 2010
by rabbifink.
Cross-posted to Frumsatire.net.
The fourth book in the 5 books of Moses will be read in Shul this week. Each of these 5 books has 2 operative names. The first parsha of each book gives them their standard name. These names are Breishis, Shmos, Vayikra, Bamidbar and Devarim.
There is another set of names that we find in Chazal as well as in the King James version of the Bible. The Ramban and other rishonim find meaning in this second set of names. Breishis is Sefer Hayetzira or Genesis, Shmos is Sefer Hageulah or Exodus, Vayikra is Toras Kohanim or Leviticus, Devarim is Mishna Torah or Deuteronomy. (more…)
May 7th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parsha Behar Bechukosai
V’tzivisi Birchasi
Giborei koach oseh Dvaro. The laws of Shmitta are well known as the barometer of personal and communal yiras Shamayim. Indeed., Chazal tell us that golus Bavel was a direct result of our being negligent in adhering to the Shmittah codes. In exploring the fascinating psukim and narrative of the parsha there are many fabulous lessons to be learned, one insight from the Alshich serves as a valuable reminder as we prepare ourselves for Shavuos. (more…)
Apr 29th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Emor
U’shmartem V’asissem
In parshas Emor (22:32), we are warned, v’lo sichalalu es shem kadshi, not to create a chilul Hashem. Furthermore, the passuk challenges us, v’nikdashi bisoch yisrael, to create a kiddush Hashem in all our endeavors. A simple passuk, but seemingly a tall order, to live lives al kiddush Hashem. While we are aware of the spiritual adrenaline that gave strength to those who gave up their lives al kiddsuh Hashem, we know that it is equally as important, and much more difficult, to live our lives b’kedushas Hashem each and every day. Fortunately, the limud of smichos haparshiyos, or in this case smichos hapassukim, shows us how. (more…)
Apr 23rd, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Achrei Mos – Kedoshim
V’lo Sissa Alav Cheit
Parshios Achrei Mos and Kedoshim are chock full of mitzvos bein adam l’chaveiro and bein adam l’Makom. So many opportunities for making Hakadosh Baruch Hu proud leap off the pages of these parshiyos providing us the opportunity to earn Olmei Olamim. One of the most formidable opportunities to earn our eternal reweard is the mitzvah of tochacha. This command is often misunderstood, yet at the same time it is a vital responsibility of each and every member of Klal Yisrael. Let us explore it further. (more…)
Apr 15th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Tazriah-Metzorah
Toras HaAdam
The study of smichas haparshiyos always reveals fascinating insights into the inner meanings of Torah. Text and context are so vital in shaping the values and mores that are to shape our outlook as well. One significant message is presented by Chazal as we traverse the yesodos of parshas Shimini, read last week, and begin the study of parshas Metzorah this Shabbos. It is a bridge which reminds us of the proper context of our avodas Hashem still today. (more…)
Mar 25th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Tzav
Ears, Thumbs and Toes
The Parsha details the process of the consecration and training of Aharon Hakohein and his sons to serve in their capacity as Kohanim in the newly erected Mishkan. Moshe Rabbeinu guides them through all necessary procedures. They don the priestly vestments and are anointed with the shemen hamishcha. Finally, a variety of Korbanos are brought, and a sacrificial rite completes their transformation. Upon closer examination it is interesting to note that sacrificial blood from the eil hamiluim was specifically placed on the ear, thumb and big toe of Aharon and his sons. Why? What appears at first glance to be a bizarre ritual, actually offers a lesson in leadership of the highest degree. (more…)
Mar 19th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Vayikra
Pretense, Arrogance and Salt
The avodas hakorbanos is a defining aspect of our avodas Hashem. Sefer Vayikrah begins by outline the specific details of sacrifice. We are taught, adam ki yakriv the offerings we bring our us. It is as if we our selves are being put on the alter and being offered in the fiery pyre to the Ribbono Shel Olam. Only as give ourselves to Him can we strengthen our connection to Hakadosh Baruch Hu, the source of all goodness.
One interesting halacha in the avodas hakorbanos is worth closer scrutiny. We are told that both se’ohr (chametz) and d’vash are prohibited from being offered on the mizbeiach. (more…)
Mar 11th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Vayakheil Pikudei
Mirror Worlds
As we conclude sefer Shmos we are provided with a full accounting of the donations to the Mishkan. Moshe Rabbeinu answers the call of his critics who wondered whether or not he was truly an honest leader. A full accounting is provided. It is interesting to note that Moshe Rabbeinu’s din v’cheshbon vis-a-vis the funds contributed to the Mishkan provide the backdrop of the actual hakomas hamishkan for the very first time. We are being taught that in order for the Mishkan to be a repository for the Shechina, we must be willing to accept accountability. Chazal, however, draw another wonderful yesod from this context. (more…)
Mar 5th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Ki Seesa
A Kesher Shel Kayama
We find in Parshas Ki Seesa the catastrophic sin of the eigel hazahav, which tragically placed Klal Yisrael at the precipice of destruction. Moshe Rabbeinu beseeches Hakadosh Baruch Hu on our behalf. He successfully assuages Hashem Yisborach’s anger and by doing so insured our survival to this very day. Realizing that He was privileged to experiencing an obvious eis ratzon, Moshe is emboldened to ask for a keener understanding of Hashem Yisborach. (more…)
Feb 25th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Titzaveh – Parshas Zachor
Pitom Hakitores
The Mizbeach Hazahav is mentioned in this week’s parsha as the final utensil Hashem Yisborach instructed Klal Yisrael to fashion for the Mishkan. Upon it, B’nai Yisrael offered the Ketores, the fragrant incense offering. Seemingly, the Mizbeach should have been sequenced along with the other keilim in Parshas Trumah. With its, zer zahav, golden crown, corresponding to the kesser kehuna, it naturally belongs together with the Aron and the Shulchan. Chazal wonder why this tzivui is saved for last. What lesson are we being taught? (more…)
Feb 18th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Teruamah
Keeping it Fresh
Parshas Terumah is filled with the beauty and grandeur of the mishkan v’keilav. The home for the Shechina was to be built of the finest materials in a precise manner outlined by the prasha. The detail of its construction is not simply a description of early Israelite architecture. (more…)
Feb 5th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Yisro
Achdus, Emunah and Simcha
The raison-d’être of maaseh braisheis and the essential tachlis of Klal Yisrael is defined in parshas Yisro with the experience of Matan Torah. No other event in world history more profoundly impacted the world for eternity. (more…)
Jan 28th, 2010
by rabbifink.
Special thanks to community member Elizabeth Danziger, founder of Worktalk Communications Consulting, for assisting in transforming this sermon from 2009 into an essay for this year.
Splitting of the Sea and Doling Out Sustenance
Beshalach 2009
The most seminal event in world history occurs in this week’s parsha. The Jewish people leave the clutches of the evil Egyptian empire. After ten punishing plagues are rained down upon the Egyptians, the Jewish people are finally free. Their relief is short-lived, however, as they are caught between the proverbial rock and hard place. On one side they are met with the raging waters of the Yam Suf, which is known as the Red Sea. Even worse, rapidly approaching them is an angry Egyptian army. The Egyptians want revenge for the ten plagues as well as the return of the slaves whom they wish to un-emancipate. (more…)
Jan 28th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas B’shalach
Lasting Inspirations
The inspiration of Krias Yam Suf was short lived. Almost immediately following the parting of the sea, Bnai Yisrael challenges Moshe (and Hashem Yisborach) with a litany of complaints. First there is no water, then no bread, next ,no meat and then again no water. One complaint after another. (more…)
Jan 21st, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Bo
Borrowed Success and a Shared future
The process of Geulas Mitzrayim is filled with the Hashgacha of the yad Hashem each step of the way. It reaches its climax with makas bechoros, as Pharaoh finally demands that Klal Yisrael leave what was left of his tattered empire. The Torah delineates the events leading up to and immediately following Yitzias Mitzrayim to teach us that the Geula was a step-by-step process. Along the way, a fascinating dichotomy is revealed. As the Mitzrim were being readied to expel Bnei Yisrael from their midst – through the impact of the makkos, Klal Yisrael was being prepared for Geula through various takanos and tzivuyim which culminated with the Korban Pesach and continued to progress until ma’amad Har Sinai.
One interesting requirement was the tzivui to “borrow” gold and silver from the Mitzrim. (more…)
Jan 14th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Parshas Va’era
V’heiveisi
The national celebration of Klal Yisrael’s first taste of freedom and our unlimited spiritual potential is commemorated each year at the Seder table. Punctuating the ritual are four cups of wine corresponding to the arba lishonos shel geula elucidated in the parsha; v’hotzeisi, v’hitzati, v’goalti, v’lakachti. As we lift each kos we feel ourselves transformed from avadim to bnai chorin. We are reminded that we were once four very large steps away from redemption and Hashem Yisborach redeemed mitachas sivlos Mitzrayim, our tolerance for horrific state of affairs Yidden experienced amongst the decadence of Egyptian society. (more…)
Jan 14th, 2010
by rabbifink.
Special thanks to community member Elizabeth Danziger, founder of Worktalk Communications Consulting, for assisting in transforming this sermon from 2009 into an essay for this year.
Words Are Cheap
Vaera 2009
This week’s Parsha is Vaera. The Parsha begins with a command from GD to Moshe. (Exodus 6:2) And God spoke unto Moses, and said unto him: ‘I am the LORD. And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, as God Almighty, but by My name YHWH I made Me not known to them. And I have also upheld My covenant with them, to give them the land of Canaan, the land of their sojournings, wherein they sojourned
GD has a number of names by which we call him. What does it mean for GD to have various names? (more…)
Jan 7th, 2010
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Looking Forward and Dreaming On
With parshas Shemos we begin to discover the many yesodos which define our destiny for eternity. Every posuk contains nuanced filled messages for us to model and learn from. One halacha derived from this week’s parsha is especially insightful on inspiring the vision each Yid is supposed to seek to build a successful future. (more…)
Dec 31st, 2009
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Kol Brama Nishma – Rachel’s Voice
As Yaakov Avinu prepares for his final farewell he tells Yosef Hatzaddik of the circumstances surrounding the death of his mother, Rachel Imeinu . He expresses regret for her not being buried in Ma’aras Hamachpeila like the rest of the imahos. He explains that he had to bury her on the way to Bais Lechem not simply due to an immediate need for rapid interment. But more importantly, as the Navi tells us, kol brama nishma. . . Rachel mivakah al baneha, to secure her voice and passionate cries for Klal Yisrael in times of crisis in the future. (more…)
Dec 4th, 2009
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
A Support Staff
As Yaakov prepares to greet Eisav after his many decades away from home he sends him gifts and a message stating, “Im Lavan Garti—I lived with Lavan.”
Chazal derive from this unusual expression the famous dictum of Yaakov Avinu – Im Lavan Garti V’Taryag Mitzvos Shamarti – I lived with Lavan but I kept all of the 613 Mitzvos (“Garti” and Taryag have the same letters) . This declaration of Yaakov is extraordinary. After years away from home, surrounded by the deceit of Lavan’s home and the decadence of society at large, Yaakov remained the Ish tam yosheiv ohalim he was when he left Eretz Yisrael some 35 years earlier.
How did he do it? (more…)
Nov 27th, 2009
by rabbifink.
A guest post by Rabbi Aaron Fink (my father), Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov on Monsey NY. Part of a weekly Dvar Torah (Torah “Thought”) series.
Yetzias Tzaddik Oseh Roshum
Vayeitzei Yaakov. We are familiar with the famous Rashi, which explains that the word vayeitze teaches us a very special lesson. Really, the parsha could have started with vayeilech Charana. However, by commencing with the word vayeitzei, we learn that yetzias tzaddik oseh roshum. When a tzaddik leaves town it makes an impression – while the tzaddik is in town, he is its pride and splendor. When he leaves the city, its pride and splendor are diminished.
On a practical level it is important to remember that one can never overestimate the impact of the tzaddik on his community. (more…)
This week we read the story of Korach and his rebellion. The rebels were unhappy with the distribution of power in the Israelite camp and made their voices heard.
