Maran Harav Aharon Schechter, Shlit"a - Rosh Yeshivas Rabbenu Chaim Berlin.
Maran Harav Aharon, Shlit"a is the Senior Rosh Yeshiva in America.
A Talmid Muvhak of Maran Harav Yitzchok Hutner, Zt"l.
Maran Rav Aharon, Shlit"a authored the Sefer on Kodshim titled Avodas Aharon in his younger Years.
During his ACTIVE tenure as Rosh Yeshiva he would learn with his Talmidim the Sefer pachad
Yitzchok authored by his Rebbe Maran Harav Hutner, Zt"l. He was greatly respected by Maran Harav SZ, Zt"l and Maran Harav Eliyashuv, Zt"l
Utnu Kovod L'torah!
Thursday, December 20, 2018
Tuesday, December 11, 2018
Donald Trump
Donald Trump is considered to be the most popular American president among the Jewish orthodox community.
Beginning with commuting the sentence of R' Shalom Rubashkin after having spent almost 8 years in prison and his transfer of the American embassy to Yerushalayim he is seen as a president who cares about jews amongst many other groups.
His son in law, mr Kushner identifies as an observant jew and has been very helpful to all of the Jewish community in the U.S.
The president, recently got many jews together for a chanukah celebration in the White House and spoke about his strong conviction that the U.S. should support Israel and help protect it.
Thursday, November 22, 2018
Dvar Torah - Vayishlach - Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
This week we are privileged to read the portion Vayishlach. Yaakov was heading back to his homeland, after many years of absence due to fear of Eisav. After leaving Levon’s home, Yaakov sent messengers (Angels) to meet with Eisov, and he prepared himself for a meeting with Eisov. Yaakov prepared three methods for his meeting. First he sent sizable gifts for Eisov, he also prayed to Hashem to save him in the event of confrontation, and thirdly he prepared for war. He split up his camp into two groups, so that if one is confronted the other camp will be saved. We learn how Yaakov returned to pick up some jars he left behind on the opposite side of the canal. Yaakov was confronted by the Angel representing Eisov, and he wrestled with him. Yaakov won the battle and made the angel admit that the blessings were rightfully his. We learn about the meeting between Yaakov and Eisov and the desire of Yaakov to part from him as quickly as possible. We learn about the tragic event with Dina, and the response from Shimon and Levi. We also learn about the tragic passing of Rochel, during childbirth (of Binyomin), and the passing of Yitzchok at age 180. The portion ends with the names of the ministers of Eisov.
The Torah tells us that Yaakov was afraid and he had fear and Rashi comments that, he was afraid he would get killed and he feared that maybe he would kill others. Many commentaries ask, we learned in the previous portion that Hashem promised Yaakov that he will be with him and watch over him, why was he afraid ? It is well known that the Chozeh of Lublin was extremely humble, and he once expressed about himself, that even if he heard from G-d directly, that he is a Tzadik (pious man), he would believe that it was true just for that second, but a second later he would be worried maybe he lost his greatness. This helps understand the way Ramban explains the fear of Yaakov. Ramban says that great people are constantly worried that they shouldn’t lose their level of holiness and that maybe according to the talents and strengths they were given, they didn’t do enough. So although Yaakov received a promise from Hashem that he would watch over him, maybe, he feared he was no longer worthy of the blessing.
The Chidushei Harim says that Yaakov was praying not for himself, but for the future generations and his fear was for his descendants when/if they would be in this situation they should be saved from the evil forces who want to destroy them. This has been proven over and over again. Unfortunately in many generations there were/are forces who thought/think they will erase the Jews from the face of the earth and Hashem saves us, as we read in the Hagodo, on Pesach, Shebchol dor vodor omdim oleinu lichaloseinu, v’Hakodosh Boruch Hu Matzileinu miyodom.
One more idea I’d like to share with you regarding the outlook on life of Yaakov verses the outlook of Eisov. In Bireishis 33/5 when Eisov finally reaches Yaakov he saw the women and the children, and said “who are these to you”? And Yaakov replied, “the children which Hashem granted me”. The Divrei Shmuel of Slonim explains the dialogue between the two. Eisov saw Yaakov has four wives, and he thought to himself, this is my world, how does it come to a holy man like Yaakov ? Yaakov’s response was the purpose of marriage to these women was to have these children. It is known that a Baron once asked the holy Rebbe of Rizhin what’s the difference between me and you, I eat and drink and so do you, I have a wife and children and so do you. The difference, replied the Ruzhiner, is that you live because you want to eat and drink, I eat and drink because I want to live. You have children because you have a wife, I have a wife because I wanted to bring children to the world. It is all about putting things into perspective.
Gut Shabbos
The Torah tells us that Yaakov was afraid and he had fear and Rashi comments that, he was afraid he would get killed and he feared that maybe he would kill others. Many commentaries ask, we learned in the previous portion that Hashem promised Yaakov that he will be with him and watch over him, why was he afraid ? It is well known that the Chozeh of Lublin was extremely humble, and he once expressed about himself, that even if he heard from G-d directly, that he is a Tzadik (pious man), he would believe that it was true just for that second, but a second later he would be worried maybe he lost his greatness. This helps understand the way Ramban explains the fear of Yaakov. Ramban says that great people are constantly worried that they shouldn’t lose their level of holiness and that maybe according to the talents and strengths they were given, they didn’t do enough. So although Yaakov received a promise from Hashem that he would watch over him, maybe, he feared he was no longer worthy of the blessing.
The Chidushei Harim says that Yaakov was praying not for himself, but for the future generations and his fear was for his descendants when/if they would be in this situation they should be saved from the evil forces who want to destroy them. This has been proven over and over again. Unfortunately in many generations there were/are forces who thought/think they will erase the Jews from the face of the earth and Hashem saves us, as we read in the Hagodo, on Pesach, Shebchol dor vodor omdim oleinu lichaloseinu, v’Hakodosh Boruch Hu Matzileinu miyodom.
One more idea I’d like to share with you regarding the outlook on life of Yaakov verses the outlook of Eisov. In Bireishis 33/5 when Eisov finally reaches Yaakov he saw the women and the children, and said “who are these to you”? And Yaakov replied, “the children which Hashem granted me”. The Divrei Shmuel of Slonim explains the dialogue between the two. Eisov saw Yaakov has four wives, and he thought to himself, this is my world, how does it come to a holy man like Yaakov ? Yaakov’s response was the purpose of marriage to these women was to have these children. It is known that a Baron once asked the holy Rebbe of Rizhin what’s the difference between me and you, I eat and drink and so do you, I have a wife and children and so do you. The difference, replied the Ruzhiner, is that you live because you want to eat and drink, I eat and drink because I want to live. You have children because you have a wife, I have a wife because I wanted to bring children to the world. It is all about putting things into perspective.
Gut Shabbos
Agudah Convention - 5779
The Agudah convention will be starting tomorrow (Thursday night). Though the crowd is not as large as previous years there are still a respectable amount of participants.
Maran Rav Aharon Schechter Shlita, The Zkan Roshei Hayeshiva in America, Rav Perlow, Rav Yerucham Olshin Shlita, Rav Yaakov Horowitz Shlita & Maran Rav Kaminetsky Shlita are expected to attend. Maran Harav D. Feinstein Shlita will be attending for a short time.
The anticipated event will help clarify the torah position on many world & National events. This event is for many the wellspring for Da'as Torah regarding many issues.
Utenu Kovod L'Torah!
Maran Rav Aharon Schechter Shlita, The Zkan Roshei Hayeshiva in America, Rav Perlow, Rav Yerucham Olshin Shlita, Rav Yaakov Horowitz Shlita & Maran Rav Kaminetsky Shlita are expected to attend. Maran Harav D. Feinstein Shlita will be attending for a short time.
The anticipated event will help clarify the torah position on many world & National events. This event is for many the wellspring for Da'as Torah regarding many issues.
Utenu Kovod L'Torah!
Friday, November 16, 2018
Dvar Torah - Vayeitzei - Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
This week we are privileged to read the portion of Vayeitzei. We learn that Yaakov escaped from his parents home due to the threat on his life, from his brother Eisov. Yaakov stopped to study for fourteen years and then headed toward Choron, to fulfill the command of his parents, that he marry someone from “their” family. We learn how Yaakov met Rochel, the daughter of Lovon at the well. He was impressed with her and wanted to marry her. We learn how Lovon fooled Yaakov by giving him Leah and not Rochel, and the great sacrifice Rochel made not to cause her sister embarrassment. only later Lovon agreed to grant Yaakov his second daughter, Rochel. We learn how Yaakov worked hard and Lovon kept changing his pay. We learn about the births of the holy children of Yaakov, the foundation of Klal Yisroel. After the birth of Yosef Yaakov can no longer stay with Lovon. Hashem tells him it’s time to return. A dispute erupted as Lovon expressed his dissatisfaction of his children’s departure. Hashem warned Lovon not to harm Yaakov. They set feet back to the Holy Land.
There’s so much we can learn from the dealings between Yaakov and Lovon. In general all these portions about the history of our forefathers are full of deep lessons. I want to share one important lesson from this week’s portion.
When Yaakov reached Choron he had a discussion with the Shepards as to why they were just standing at the well. They declared that they waited for a group of Shepard’s to appear in order to remove the stone covering the well. Yaakov walked over and just removed on his own like he took a cap off a bottle. We need to understand what was the reason Yaakov did this, was he trying to show then his physical strength ? If so, why ? Also why is it important for the Torah to tell us about this detail ? There’s a tremendous lesson Yaakov wanted to teach them and us as well. If one really wants to accomplish something, nothing can stand in the way, all one needs to do is try, not stand on the side and say I can’t. We find the same situation (in the portion of Shmos), when Basya removed Moshe from the water. Moshe was placed in the water far from an arm stretch, however she was determined to save the child and stuck out her arm, and the Medrash teaches us that her arm became longer until she reached the box in which Moshe lye. We need to do ours and we will see that Hashem will help, and the impossible can be achieved.
Gut Shabbos!
There’s so much we can learn from the dealings between Yaakov and Lovon. In general all these portions about the history of our forefathers are full of deep lessons. I want to share one important lesson from this week’s portion.
When Yaakov reached Choron he had a discussion with the Shepards as to why they were just standing at the well. They declared that they waited for a group of Shepard’s to appear in order to remove the stone covering the well. Yaakov walked over and just removed on his own like he took a cap off a bottle. We need to understand what was the reason Yaakov did this, was he trying to show then his physical strength ? If so, why ? Also why is it important for the Torah to tell us about this detail ? There’s a tremendous lesson Yaakov wanted to teach them and us as well. If one really wants to accomplish something, nothing can stand in the way, all one needs to do is try, not stand on the side and say I can’t. We find the same situation (in the portion of Shmos), when Basya removed Moshe from the water. Moshe was placed in the water far from an arm stretch, however she was determined to save the child and stuck out her arm, and the Medrash teaches us that her arm became longer until she reached the box in which Moshe lye. We need to do ours and we will see that Hashem will help, and the impossible can be achieved.
Gut Shabbos!
Friday, October 26, 2018
Dvar Torah - Vayeiro - Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
This week we are privileged to read the portion of Vayeiro. We learn in the end of the previous portion that Avrohom performed a Bris Mila on himself at age ninety nine, and this portion begins with Hashem’s appearance to Avrohom on the third day. Avrohom, despite being in physical pain, was more bothered by the fact that no guest showed up, due to heat waves. Hashem sends three angels, they appeared as people, to allow Avrohom the ability to fulfill the mitzva of hachnosas orchim (hosting guest). Avrohom despite his senior age and his frail body, prepared a feast for his guest. At the meal they revealed to him that they were sent by Hashem to inform him that he will be blessed with a child at this time next year, and also to heal him. They continued on to Sedom ato destroy the evil cities of Sedom and Amora and to save Lot in the merit of Avrohom. Avrohom pleaded with Hashem to spare the evil people, however their awful behavior, and the absence of pious men caused their ultimate destruction. We learn that Lot’s wife turned into a pillar of salt due to her curiosity to see what transpired with Sedom during their escape. Later we learn of Yitzchok’s birth and the need to get Yishmoel away from Yitzchok to avoid bad influence. We also learn of the great challenge Avrohom had gone thru, by being willing to sacrifice his holy son Yitzchok, by G-d’s command. Obviously it was only a test, from which we merit until this day. The portion concludes with the birth of Rivkah, later to be the spouse of Yitzchok and one of our holy Matriarchs.
We find in the beginning of the portion that Avrohom offered his guest a meal and their response was kein taase kaasher dibarto - do so, as you have spoken. The Slonimer Rebbe explains, we often find people that do a lot of good deeds, but it does not elevate them. They may perform acts of kindness and do a lot for others, however they frequently remain simple people. Why is that ? Says the Slonimer Rebbe, it is because their language is not clean and that is a basic for a person to be able to be uplifted and grow spiritually. In the absence of clean language one cannot grow. This is what the angels told Avrohom your words should match your deeds. Good deeds along with good words, pure action and pure speech are the ingredients for growth. (Maybe this is why we start Yom Kippur with Kol Nidrei, so that we nullify improper speech, before we begin a new page).
I want to share another idea with you. The Medrash states , that when Hashem sent Avrohom to the Land Moriah, to bring Yitzchok for an offering, he used the term Lech Licho - go for your own good. The same term Lech Licho was used in the previous portion, when Hashem to Avrom to leave his land, his birthplace, his father’s home to an unknown land. The Medrash discusses, which one was greater, the first Lech Licho or the second ? The Medrash concludes the second one was much greater. We need to understand what was even the rational to say that leaving one’s birthplace and land would be greater than sacrificing a son born at one hundred years old ? Although the Medrash concludes that the second Lech Licho was greater, one needs to understand what was even the debate. There’s an important lesson here, to teach us the greatness of unconditional faith - emuna pshuta. Since by the first Lech Licho Avrohom did not even know to which land he was going, it was a complete act of unconditional faith, maybe it was greater than Lech Licho of the Akeido, where he knew to which land he was going and for what purpose. This is the other side of the debate.
Friday, October 5, 2018
Dvar Torah - Bireishis - from Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
This week we are privileged to begin a new cycle of Torah reading, beginning with the portion of Bireishis. The portion teaches us what was created every day of the week and that from the beginning of creation Shabbos was sanctified. We also learn that Adam was created in the image of G-d. We learn about the sin of Adam and Chava (Eve) eating from the tree of knowledge. We learn about Kayin and Hevel and the tragic ending of Hevel's life. The portion concludes with the birth of Noach.
This Shabbos is referred to as Shabbos Bireishis (beginning). The holy Chassidic masters said that this Shabbos is a foundation for the entire year. It is the first Shabbos after the high Holidays, and it is incumbent upon us to prove that we didn’t just serve G-d externally, but that we internalized what we said, and accepted. The Chida also writes that on Shabbos Bireishis one should be particularly careful to conduct him/herself properly as it is not a good sign if immediately after the High Holy Days one falls back. At least the beginning should be strong. The Rebbe of Tzanz would refer to Shabbos Bireishis as follows: when a businessman goes to an exhibition to buy goods in his field of business, he quickly purchases everything he feels would be profitable for his business. However it is only when he comes home that he begins to go through his purchases to see what will be more productive and profitable. So too, it is with the month of Tishrei. The entire month we were busy grabbing mitzvohs, correcting what needs to be corrected and now we need to work on implementing what needs to be implemented. This is the work of Shabbos Bireishis.
When Reb Shneur Zalman of Liadi (author of Tanya) was imprisoned in St Petersburg, over false allegations, the government tried sending different people to talk to him and sniff out how much he's working to topple the Zarist authority. Amongst these people, they sent a very prominent and learned minister, who entered the prison disguised as an ordinary fellow prisoner. When he entered the room the Rebbe stood up for him and he said to him that he knows he's somewhat connected to malchus (kingdom). The minister was shocked, as they never met and there was no way he could have recognized him ... He began to have an intellectual conversation with R' Shneur Zalman. Amongst the questions he asked was, it is written in the Torah that after the Adam ate from the tree of knowledge Hashem asked him AYEKO - where are you. Why did Hashem ask Adam "Ayeko" , doesn't G-d know everything ? The Rebbe responded that this a call to every individual eternally to check on himself where he is, and he continued to tell the minister, Hashem gave you this amount of years, this amount of months and this amount of days, what did you do with it ? Where are you ? He calculated exactly the age, the years, months and days of the minister sitting in front of him. The minister was shaken up, and later ended up being one of the greatest defenders of the Tzadik before the judge, who ultimately freed him.
The message to us is, after an entire elevated season where we served Hashem more than throughout the year, and now we go back to routine, remember AYEKO!
Gut Shabbos, and
A healthy winter,
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
This Shabbos is referred to as Shabbos Bireishis (beginning). The holy Chassidic masters said that this Shabbos is a foundation for the entire year. It is the first Shabbos after the high Holidays, and it is incumbent upon us to prove that we didn’t just serve G-d externally, but that we internalized what we said, and accepted. The Chida also writes that on Shabbos Bireishis one should be particularly careful to conduct him/herself properly as it is not a good sign if immediately after the High Holy Days one falls back. At least the beginning should be strong. The Rebbe of Tzanz would refer to Shabbos Bireishis as follows: when a businessman goes to an exhibition to buy goods in his field of business, he quickly purchases everything he feels would be profitable for his business. However it is only when he comes home that he begins to go through his purchases to see what will be more productive and profitable. So too, it is with the month of Tishrei. The entire month we were busy grabbing mitzvohs, correcting what needs to be corrected and now we need to work on implementing what needs to be implemented. This is the work of Shabbos Bireishis.
When Reb Shneur Zalman of Liadi (author of Tanya) was imprisoned in St Petersburg, over false allegations, the government tried sending different people to talk to him and sniff out how much he's working to topple the Zarist authority. Amongst these people, they sent a very prominent and learned minister, who entered the prison disguised as an ordinary fellow prisoner. When he entered the room the Rebbe stood up for him and he said to him that he knows he's somewhat connected to malchus (kingdom). The minister was shocked, as they never met and there was no way he could have recognized him ... He began to have an intellectual conversation with R' Shneur Zalman. Amongst the questions he asked was, it is written in the Torah that after the Adam ate from the tree of knowledge Hashem asked him AYEKO - where are you. Why did Hashem ask Adam "Ayeko" , doesn't G-d know everything ? The Rebbe responded that this a call to every individual eternally to check on himself where he is, and he continued to tell the minister, Hashem gave you this amount of years, this amount of months and this amount of days, what did you do with it ? Where are you ? He calculated exactly the age, the years, months and days of the minister sitting in front of him. The minister was shaken up, and later ended up being one of the greatest defenders of the Tzadik before the judge, who ultimately freed him.
The message to us is, after an entire elevated season where we served Hashem more than throughout the year, and now we go back to routine, remember AYEKO!
Gut Shabbos, and
A healthy winter,
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
Monday, September 17, 2018
Erecting Yom Kippur - Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
The holiest day of the year, Yom Kippur is approaching and we are all preparing to be cleansed and merit an inscription and a seal in the book of Life.
On the day preceding Yom Kippur there's a special mitzvah to eat and drink more than usual. This is derived from a phrase in Torah Vayikra 23/32, you shall afflict your souls on the ninth day in the evening. The Talmud asks is the fast on the ninth ? It is on the tenth that we fast. Says the Talmud (Rosh Hashono 9a), "this is to teach us, that if one eats and drinks on the ninth it will be considered as he fasted both days". The question we still have, why is it that the Torah tells us that it is a mitzvah to eat, with this type of language (affliction), why not say, eat and drink ? I would to share with you two approaches to explain this.
The Torah wants to teach us how to fulfill this mitzvah. One can eat like a Jew with proper ethic and thought and one can eat and his whole mind and soul is in the plate. The Torah wants to tell you that when fulfilling this mitzvah, your mind should be on the mitzvah and not engulfed in the food, just as if you were fasting.
There's another approach. We know that when one does a mitzvah and he toils for it and it comes with great difficulty, the reward is much greater. This is why the Torah tells us that if one eats and drinks on the ninth it will be considered as if he fasted, so that we should know that the reward will be greater than just fulfilling an easy mitzvah, but rather it will be rewarded like a mitzvah that came with hardship.
The holy Berdichev Rebbe once walked in to Kol Nidrei (opening prayer of Yom Kippur), and began searching under the tables and benches. No one understood what he was searching for. He then lifted his head to the Heavens and said "Holy L-rd! You commanded the Jewish people to eat and drink today, I don't see even one drunk person in this synagogue. Imagine if other nations had been given this mitzvah. This was his way of defending Klal Yisroel.
In closing, I'd like to ask all, if I offended anyone, please be kind enough and forgive me, and I'm sure G-d will do the same.
May we merit to be sealed in the book of Life, for a sweet year, with spiritual and material growth in good health with nachas and happiness.
Gmar Chasima Tova,
On the day preceding Yom Kippur there's a special mitzvah to eat and drink more than usual. This is derived from a phrase in Torah Vayikra 23/32, you shall afflict your souls on the ninth day in the evening. The Talmud asks is the fast on the ninth ? It is on the tenth that we fast. Says the Talmud (Rosh Hashono 9a), "this is to teach us, that if one eats and drinks on the ninth it will be considered as he fasted both days". The question we still have, why is it that the Torah tells us that it is a mitzvah to eat, with this type of language (affliction), why not say, eat and drink ? I would to share with you two approaches to explain this.
The Torah wants to teach us how to fulfill this mitzvah. One can eat like a Jew with proper ethic and thought and one can eat and his whole mind and soul is in the plate. The Torah wants to tell you that when fulfilling this mitzvah, your mind should be on the mitzvah and not engulfed in the food, just as if you were fasting.
There's another approach. We know that when one does a mitzvah and he toils for it and it comes with great difficulty, the reward is much greater. This is why the Torah tells us that if one eats and drinks on the ninth it will be considered as if he fasted, so that we should know that the reward will be greater than just fulfilling an easy mitzvah, but rather it will be rewarded like a mitzvah that came with hardship.
The holy Berdichev Rebbe once walked in to Kol Nidrei (opening prayer of Yom Kippur), and began searching under the tables and benches. No one understood what he was searching for. He then lifted his head to the Heavens and said "Holy L-rd! You commanded the Jewish people to eat and drink today, I don't see even one drunk person in this synagogue. Imagine if other nations had been given this mitzvah. This was his way of defending Klal Yisroel.
In closing, I'd like to ask all, if I offended anyone, please be kind enough and forgive me, and I'm sure G-d will do the same.
May we merit to be sealed in the book of Life, for a sweet year, with spiritual and material growth in good health with nachas and happiness.
Gmar Chasima Tova,
Friday, September 7, 2018
Dvar Torah Parshas Nitzovim - from Harav Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
We are about to usher in the Shabbos which closes 5778. We know that Shabbos is the source of all blessings. As we look forward to a better year, let us work on the preparation thru celebrating this holy Shabbos with greater observance, greater emotion and stronger commitment to utilizing every free moment of the Shabbos for Torah study and fulfilling more mitzvohs. Hopefully, we will all merit a sweet new year filled with blessing, material and spiritual.
This week we are privileged to read the portion of Nitzovim. The portion discusses the importance of everyone, regardless of education or financial background, being bound to Torah observance. The covenant between us and Hashem is meant for everyone. We are all obligated to repair what we did wrong. Although the portion is short, it is huge in content.
The Torah states in Devorim chapter 30 verse 11: For this commandment which I command you this day, is not hidden from you, nor is it far off.
12. It is not in heaven, that you should say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it to us, that we may hear it, and do it?
13. Nor is it beyond the sea, that you should say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it to us, that we may hear it, and do it?
14. But the word is very near to you, in your mouth, and in your heart, that you may do it.
These verses are referring to all of us regarding Torah study. One shall not say the Torah is out of reach.
Reb Yehoshua of Dzhikov explains the verse Ki Korov eilecho hadovor meod - But the word is very near to you, the word meod also means finances. This, says the Dzhikov Rebbe, is a hint to those who are tied up and don’t have the ability to study Torah as much as they should. There’s an option for them to be rewarded just as if they were studying, that is, thru financially supporting those who learn and teach Torah. By doing so one will be rewarded as if he too studied, just as it was with the the two brothers Yisoschor and Zvulun. (That is the reference to the word Meod as in b’chol meodecha, we read daily in Shma).
There's another important lesson from these verses. When someone feels that he's struggling to keep a specific mitzvah, the Torah tells us the way to deal with it, to learn the laws of that specific mitzvah in the Torah this will bring a desire in our hearts to fulfill the mitzvah. That is the reference in "your mouth and in your heart, that you may do it".
May we merit to properly prepare for the new year, and merit to be inscribed in the book of life.
Ksiva vchasima Tova
Gut Shabbos,
This week we are privileged to read the portion of Nitzovim. The portion discusses the importance of everyone, regardless of education or financial background, being bound to Torah observance. The covenant between us and Hashem is meant for everyone. We are all obligated to repair what we did wrong. Although the portion is short, it is huge in content.
The Torah states in Devorim chapter 30 verse 11: For this commandment which I command you this day, is not hidden from you, nor is it far off.
12. It is not in heaven, that you should say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it to us, that we may hear it, and do it?
13. Nor is it beyond the sea, that you should say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring it to us, that we may hear it, and do it?
14. But the word is very near to you, in your mouth, and in your heart, that you may do it.
These verses are referring to all of us regarding Torah study. One shall not say the Torah is out of reach.
Reb Yehoshua of Dzhikov explains the verse Ki Korov eilecho hadovor meod - But the word is very near to you, the word meod also means finances. This, says the Dzhikov Rebbe, is a hint to those who are tied up and don’t have the ability to study Torah as much as they should. There’s an option for them to be rewarded just as if they were studying, that is, thru financially supporting those who learn and teach Torah. By doing so one will be rewarded as if he too studied, just as it was with the the two brothers Yisoschor and Zvulun. (That is the reference to the word Meod as in b’chol meodecha, we read daily in Shma).
There's another important lesson from these verses. When someone feels that he's struggling to keep a specific mitzvah, the Torah tells us the way to deal with it, to learn the laws of that specific mitzvah in the Torah this will bring a desire in our hearts to fulfill the mitzvah. That is the reference in "your mouth and in your heart, that you may do it".
May we merit to properly prepare for the new year, and merit to be inscribed in the book of life.
Ksiva vchasima Tova
Gut Shabbos,
Friday, July 27, 2018
Dvar Torah - Voeschanan - From Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
This week we are privileged to read the portion of Voeschanan. The Shabbos is also called “Shabbos Nachamu”. Nachamu means be consoled (comforted). This name comes from the words in our haftorah “Nachamu, Nachamu Ami" - console, console my nation, says Hashem. This portion begins with Moshe expressing his desire to enter the Holy Land - Eretz Yisroel, and Hashem's refusal to grant him this wish. Hashem told Moshe to go up on the highest point of the mountain and from there he will see Eretz Yisroel, but he will not enter. Hashem commands Moshe to strengthen Yehoshua, for he will bring the Jewish people into Eretz Yisroel and they will inhabit the land. We learn the importance of remembering the event at Mt Sinai. In this week's portion the ten commandments are repeated, and the first portion of Shma is also written in this portion.
The Tolna Rebbe OBM, once asked an obvious question. We find that Moshe begged Hashem to allow him to enter the Holy land and Hashem responds so sharply, "don't continue to talk to me on this topic"! Why such a sharp response ? The question is even greater, because the whole reason that Moshe wanted to go into Eretz Yisroel was only, so that he can perform the mitzvohs that one can only perform in the Holy Land, so why did he deserve such a sharp response? Says the Tolna Rebbe, Moshe was fascinated by the Mitzvah of Yishuv Eretz Yisroel, inhabiting the land of Israel. This is a mitzvah that one can fulfill around the clock every second of the day just by living in Eretz Yisroel. Moshe had an extreme desire to be able to fulfill such a mitzvah. Hashem had other plans for Moshe, but in order not disappoint his great desire to fulfill a 24/7 mitzvah, he commanded him not to talk to him again regarding this topic. Now, by just merely refraining from talking about this topic he was fulfilling a mitzvah every second. So what seems to be a harsh response, was actually a method of rewarding Moshe with the possibility to be able to observe a 24/7 mitzvah.
May we merit to be consoled by Hashem speedily, with the rebuilding of Yerusholayim and the holy Temple.
The Tolna Rebbe OBM, once asked an obvious question. We find that Moshe begged Hashem to allow him to enter the Holy land and Hashem responds so sharply, "don't continue to talk to me on this topic"! Why such a sharp response ? The question is even greater, because the whole reason that Moshe wanted to go into Eretz Yisroel was only, so that he can perform the mitzvohs that one can only perform in the Holy Land, so why did he deserve such a sharp response? Says the Tolna Rebbe, Moshe was fascinated by the Mitzvah of Yishuv Eretz Yisroel, inhabiting the land of Israel. This is a mitzvah that one can fulfill around the clock every second of the day just by living in Eretz Yisroel. Moshe had an extreme desire to be able to fulfill such a mitzvah. Hashem had other plans for Moshe, but in order not disappoint his great desire to fulfill a 24/7 mitzvah, he commanded him not to talk to him again regarding this topic. Now, by just merely refraining from talking about this topic he was fulfilling a mitzvah every second. So what seems to be a harsh response, was actually a method of rewarding Moshe with the possibility to be able to observe a 24/7 mitzvah.
May we merit to be consoled by Hashem speedily, with the rebuilding of Yerusholayim and the holy Temple.
Wednesday, July 25, 2018
Tefillos for Hagaon Harav Reuven Feinstein and His Rebbetzin
We regret to inform you that Harav Reuven Feinstein, Rosh Hayeshiva Mesivta Tiferes Yerushalayim and Chaver Hanesius of Agudas Yisroel of America, as well as his Rebbetzin, were in a car accident earlier today. The Rosh Hayeshiva is reportedly badly bruised but in stable condition. The Rebbetzin reportedly has internal bleeding and is undergoing surgery.
Please say Tehillim for Sholom Reuven ben Shima and Chava Sorah bas Ita Devora, l'refuah shleimah b'soch she'ar cholei Yisroel, and may we share besoros tovos.
Rabbi Chaim Dovid Zwiebel
Executive Vice President
Agudath Israel of America
Please say Tehillim for Sholom Reuven ben Shima and Chava Sorah bas Ita Devora, l'refuah shleimah b'soch she'ar cholei Yisroel, and may we share besoros tovos.
Rabbi Chaim Dovid Zwiebel
Executive Vice President
Agudath Israel of America
Friday, July 20, 2018
Dvar Torah - Dvorim - From Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
This week are privileged to begin the fifth book of Torah, the book of Dvorim, also known as Mishne Torah (second Torah). Moshe began preparing for his departure from this world. The last thirty six days of his life were dedicated to teaching and reviewing laws of Torah, and rebuking Klal Yisroel for their inappropriate deeds. This portion begins with hints to all the events which took place over forty years of their journey thru the desert.
This portion is always read on the Shabbos preceding Tisha B’Av. We must realize that all the tragic events which took place throughout the years of our exile and the fact that we are still in exile, is due to our lack of effort to get closer to Hashem. The Baal Shem Tov teaches that these weeks are specifically auspicious for reaching spiritual heights. The Magid of Kozhnitz translates the verse in Eicho, “all those who pursue her, reach her Bein Hamtzorim”, this is referring to those who pursue closeness to the shechina, can find her Bein Hamtzorim. This is compared to a king who left his palace, while he is away from home he is more accessible.
This year the Ninth of Av falls on Shabbos. All the laws of Tisha B’Av are delayed until after Shabbos. The fast and all other rules are observed beginning Saturday eve until Sunday night. The Talmud in Megila 5b states tha Rabeinu Hakodosh (R’ Yehuda Hanosi) wanted to totally annul Tisha B’av when it fell on Shabbos, due to the fact that it is delayed in honor of Shabbos and one it is anyway postponed, let it be annulled. However, the sages did not agree. Regarding the passing of Rebbe, the Talmud Yerushalmy tells us that Rabeinu Hakodosh passed away on a Friday afternoon and despite the fact that everyone attended his funeral and burial on Friday afternoon, there was still time to cook for and prepare food for Shabbos. The sun set was delayed for several hours. Says the Bnei Yisoschor, these two stories are related. Because Rebbe stood up for the honor of Shabbos, the Shabbos now, after his passing, defended his honor.
Although it is Tisha B'av, Shabbos takes precedence. A hint to this is found in this portion. In Devorim 1/6 the Torah says Hashem Eloikenu diber eileinu bichorev Leimor, Rav lochem sheves bohor haze - the Tiferes Shloime states that this verse can be explained slightly different than the literal translation. Hashem spoke to us Bichorev - when the Temple was destroyed (from the word Churbon, destruction), Rav lochem- it is great for you, Sheves - are the same letters as Shabbos, meaning that this Shabbos is great, bohor haze - in this great mountain, referring to the yetzer hora which is compared to a mountain. By strengthening our commitment and appreciation for Shabbos we will be strengthened in this golus and merit to withstand all evil.
Let us yearn for closeness to Hashem, by strengthening our commitment to the sanctity of Shabbos and thereby we will bring about the ultimate redemption.
Gut Shabbos
This portion is always read on the Shabbos preceding Tisha B’Av. We must realize that all the tragic events which took place throughout the years of our exile and the fact that we are still in exile, is due to our lack of effort to get closer to Hashem. The Baal Shem Tov teaches that these weeks are specifically auspicious for reaching spiritual heights. The Magid of Kozhnitz translates the verse in Eicho, “all those who pursue her, reach her Bein Hamtzorim”, this is referring to those who pursue closeness to the shechina, can find her Bein Hamtzorim. This is compared to a king who left his palace, while he is away from home he is more accessible.
This year the Ninth of Av falls on Shabbos. All the laws of Tisha B’Av are delayed until after Shabbos. The fast and all other rules are observed beginning Saturday eve until Sunday night. The Talmud in Megila 5b states tha Rabeinu Hakodosh (R’ Yehuda Hanosi) wanted to totally annul Tisha B’av when it fell on Shabbos, due to the fact that it is delayed in honor of Shabbos and one it is anyway postponed, let it be annulled. However, the sages did not agree. Regarding the passing of Rebbe, the Talmud Yerushalmy tells us that Rabeinu Hakodosh passed away on a Friday afternoon and despite the fact that everyone attended his funeral and burial on Friday afternoon, there was still time to cook for and prepare food for Shabbos. The sun set was delayed for several hours. Says the Bnei Yisoschor, these two stories are related. Because Rebbe stood up for the honor of Shabbos, the Shabbos now, after his passing, defended his honor.
Although it is Tisha B'av, Shabbos takes precedence. A hint to this is found in this portion. In Devorim 1/6 the Torah says Hashem Eloikenu diber eileinu bichorev Leimor, Rav lochem sheves bohor haze - the Tiferes Shloime states that this verse can be explained slightly different than the literal translation. Hashem spoke to us Bichorev - when the Temple was destroyed (from the word Churbon, destruction), Rav lochem- it is great for you, Sheves - are the same letters as Shabbos, meaning that this Shabbos is great, bohor haze - in this great mountain, referring to the yetzer hora which is compared to a mountain. By strengthening our commitment and appreciation for Shabbos we will be strengthened in this golus and merit to withstand all evil.
Let us yearn for closeness to Hashem, by strengthening our commitment to the sanctity of Shabbos and thereby we will bring about the ultimate redemption.
Gut Shabbos
Sunday, July 15, 2018
BARUCH DAYAN HAEMES
One of the Gedolei Haposkim in Eretz Yisroel was Niftar on Layl Shabbos. Maran Harav Sraya Dublitzky, who resided in Bnei Brak was niftar on Friday night at the age of 93.
A talmid of Maran the Chazon Ish zt"l and of many Sefardi Mekubalim he was a light for the Bnei Brak community. The Levaya was today attended by thousands.
He authored close to sixty seforim the dealt with many contemporary Halachic issues.
Yehi Zichro Baruch - Utenu Kavod Ltorah
A talmid of Maran the Chazon Ish zt"l and of many Sefardi Mekubalim he was a light for the Bnei Brak community. The Levaya was today attended by thousands.
He authored close to sixty seforim the dealt with many contemporary Halachic issues.
Yehi Zichro Baruch - Utenu Kavod Ltorah
Monday, July 2, 2018
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Wednesday, June 13, 2018
Friday, June 8, 2018
Dvar Torah - Shlach - From Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
Dear Friends
This week we are privileged to read the portion of Shlach. The portion begins with tragic event which brought about so much sorrow to Klal Yisroel, the spies that slandered Eretz Yisroel. Twelve spies were sent to explore the land and report to Klal Yisroel. All but two, came back with negativity. Yehoshua and Koleiv were the two that stood out and tried convincing the Jews that our land is very very great. It was then decreed that the Jews would have to wander in the desert for forty years. The entire generation (who were over the age of twenty during the exodus of Egypt) passed away in the desert aside from the two spies who defended the Holy Land, Koleiv and Yehoshua. Moshe once again begged of Hashem to forgive the Jewish people. Hashem forgave but the punishment remained. We later learn about adding libations (nisochim) to all the offerings. The Torah also discusses the mitzvah of challah, which needs to be separated from dough. The portion ends with mitzvah of Tzitzis.
There’s an obvious question which should disturb anyone who learns this portion. Why is it that by the sin of the golden calf (cheit ho’eigel), which seems much worse than the sin of the spies, Hashem accepted their atonement and forgave them, however here we find that the nation was sad and mourned, and still they needed to stay in the desert for forty years and no one except for Koleiv and Yehoshua survived. Why so much harsher ?
I’d like to offer an insight which perhaps will shed some light on the difference between the approach of the two methods of Tshuva. One can do Tshuva, regret the sin and feel remorse to a great degree, however, there’s no point on dwelling on sin, move on! Others may sit and dwell and be depressed over the terrible sin they committed and that remains the focus. This is not the right approach. One needs to be happy that Hashem gives us the opportunity to rectify the wrong and repent. The Torah tells us in Bamidbor 14/39, when Moshe repeated Hashem’s harsh punishment - vayisablu ho’om meoid - the nation mourned greatly. Depression and sadness has no place in Judaism, regret is ok remorse is ok, but one needs to move on and get closer to Hashem, not stay in the mud. This is perhaps why we are left with Tisha B’av as part of the remnants of this sin, you want to mourn, Hashem will give you what to mourn for. Tshuva needs to be done with Simcha and joy, that one can open a new page and Hashem will accept him under his wings.
The Rebbe of Kotzk gives a different explanation. The content of the sin of the golden calf, was the pursuit of spirituality, however the content of the sin of the miraglim (spies) was the pursuit of materialism. The sin of the golden calf although it was greater than the sin of the spies, it was however in pursuit of spirituality, therefore it can be atoned. A sin for pursuing materialistic gains, is much harder to atone.
The Baal Shem Tov adds another dimension that although they did Tshuva they referred to it as, Asher Omar Hashem ki chotonu - G-d said we sinned (Bamidbor 14/40). They didn’t recognize it deeply on their own they just referred to it as, Hashem said we sinned.
May we merit to rectify the sin of the spies, by always appreciating what Hashem gives us and thereby bring the ultimate redemption.
Gut Shabbos,
This week we are privileged to read the portion of Shlach. The portion begins with tragic event which brought about so much sorrow to Klal Yisroel, the spies that slandered Eretz Yisroel. Twelve spies were sent to explore the land and report to Klal Yisroel. All but two, came back with negativity. Yehoshua and Koleiv were the two that stood out and tried convincing the Jews that our land is very very great. It was then decreed that the Jews would have to wander in the desert for forty years. The entire generation (who were over the age of twenty during the exodus of Egypt) passed away in the desert aside from the two spies who defended the Holy Land, Koleiv and Yehoshua. Moshe once again begged of Hashem to forgive the Jewish people. Hashem forgave but the punishment remained. We later learn about adding libations (nisochim) to all the offerings. The Torah also discusses the mitzvah of challah, which needs to be separated from dough. The portion ends with mitzvah of Tzitzis.
There’s an obvious question which should disturb anyone who learns this portion. Why is it that by the sin of the golden calf (cheit ho’eigel), which seems much worse than the sin of the spies, Hashem accepted their atonement and forgave them, however here we find that the nation was sad and mourned, and still they needed to stay in the desert for forty years and no one except for Koleiv and Yehoshua survived. Why so much harsher ?
I’d like to offer an insight which perhaps will shed some light on the difference between the approach of the two methods of Tshuva. One can do Tshuva, regret the sin and feel remorse to a great degree, however, there’s no point on dwelling on sin, move on! Others may sit and dwell and be depressed over the terrible sin they committed and that remains the focus. This is not the right approach. One needs to be happy that Hashem gives us the opportunity to rectify the wrong and repent. The Torah tells us in Bamidbor 14/39, when Moshe repeated Hashem’s harsh punishment - vayisablu ho’om meoid - the nation mourned greatly. Depression and sadness has no place in Judaism, regret is ok remorse is ok, but one needs to move on and get closer to Hashem, not stay in the mud. This is perhaps why we are left with Tisha B’av as part of the remnants of this sin, you want to mourn, Hashem will give you what to mourn for. Tshuva needs to be done with Simcha and joy, that one can open a new page and Hashem will accept him under his wings.
The Rebbe of Kotzk gives a different explanation. The content of the sin of the golden calf, was the pursuit of spirituality, however the content of the sin of the miraglim (spies) was the pursuit of materialism. The sin of the golden calf although it was greater than the sin of the spies, it was however in pursuit of spirituality, therefore it can be atoned. A sin for pursuing materialistic gains, is much harder to atone.
The Baal Shem Tov adds another dimension that although they did Tshuva they referred to it as, Asher Omar Hashem ki chotonu - G-d said we sinned (Bamidbor 14/40). They didn’t recognize it deeply on their own they just referred to it as, Hashem said we sinned.
May we merit to rectify the sin of the spies, by always appreciating what Hashem gives us and thereby bring the ultimate redemption.
Gut Shabbos,
Saturday, June 2, 2018
Chasdei Hashem the jobless rate went down by 18% in the U.S.
It is a major success for Donald Trump Hodu L'hashem.
Maran Harav M. Sternbuch Shlita, is being supported politically by the Satmar Rav, Harav A. Teitelbaum Shlita.
The Gaa'vad of the Badatz, Maran Harav Tuvia Weiss Shlita, is being supported by the other Satmar Rav, Harav Zalman L. Teitelbaum Shlita.
Maran Harav Sternbuch Shlita is in the U.S. To be Mechazek the Torah Olam.
It is a major success for Donald Trump Hodu L'hashem.
Maran Harav M. Sternbuch Shlita, is being supported politically by the Satmar Rav, Harav A. Teitelbaum Shlita.
The Gaa'vad of the Badatz, Maran Harav Tuvia Weiss Shlita, is being supported by the other Satmar Rav, Harav Zalman L. Teitelbaum Shlita.
Maran Harav Sternbuch Shlita is in the U.S. To be Mechazek the Torah Olam.
Utenu Kovod Latorah
Friday, June 1, 2018
Thursday, May 31, 2018
Maran Harav Koppelman zt"l
Maran Harav Koppelman zt"l, the last Talmid of Maran Harav Shimon Shkop zt"l, who was Niftar 3 years ago.
Wednesday, May 30, 2018
Be careful of mistakes
We were requested to remind the Torah Tzibur that they should avoid looking at blogs even with a kosher jewish name that do not adher to staying away from writing "Dvorim Asurim". The only blogs that may be viewed are those that are Loshon Hora free and do not embarrass another jewish person.
After all why is it the bloggers business if he believes something is done wrong by someone?
The concept of "Ltoeles" has been abused by many bloggers.
Utenu Kovod Latorah
After all why is it the bloggers business if he believes something is done wrong by someone?
The concept of "Ltoeles" has been abused by many bloggers.
Utenu Kovod Latorah
Monday, May 21, 2018
Friday, May 18, 2018
Dvar Torah - Shavuos - From Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
This week we are privileged to read the first portion of the fourth book of Torah, Bamidbor. This book is also known as the book of Numbers, as the first portion The portion begins with Hashem recounting klal Yisroel one tribe at a time. Later the tribe Levi is counted separately.
One very important lesson one can learn from this count and it is repeated when later in the book of Bamidbor we learn the order in which the Jewish nation traveled. The Tribe Don was extremely large and they were actually last to journey, behind all other tribes, because Don numbered 62,000. Don, the son of Yaakov, had only one son, named Chushim. Chushim, was deaf. Sometimes people tend to make conclusions and just give up. Let’s think, if Don the son of Yaakov would have just given up on this only son, who was an invalid, the largest tribe of Klal Yisroel would not be. The important lesson to us is, One never knows the potential of an individual.
The words l’mishpichosom l’beis avoisom - according to their families, according to their fathers’ household, are repeated many times in this portion. The Medrash tells us that when the Jews received the Torah the nations of the world were jealous. Why are the Jews so privileged? Hashem responded with one request “bring me your daily trees, as the Jews do”, as is written l’mishpichosom l’beis avoisom - according to their families according to their fathers’ household. The commentaries explain that the Torah is eternal, and in order for it to continue, there needs to be a strong bond between father and son to grandson, to create a mesora - tradition passed on from generation.
Shavuos, and bamidbor are strongly intertwined and the message to us is that our eternity is dependent on how much effort we put in to our future generations. A hint to this is also written in the first mishna in Rosh Hashono, B’atzeres al peiros ho’ilan - on Shavuos G-d judges the fruit of the trees”, according to many, this is a hint to our fruit, our children.
Let us remember to utilize this special Holiday and pray to merit an understanding of Torah and reaffirm our commitment to Torah and mitzvohs.
Gut Shabbos
Gut Yom Tov
One very important lesson one can learn from this count and it is repeated when later in the book of Bamidbor we learn the order in which the Jewish nation traveled. The Tribe Don was extremely large and they were actually last to journey, behind all other tribes, because Don numbered 62,000. Don, the son of Yaakov, had only one son, named Chushim. Chushim, was deaf. Sometimes people tend to make conclusions and just give up. Let’s think, if Don the son of Yaakov would have just given up on this only son, who was an invalid, the largest tribe of Klal Yisroel would not be. The important lesson to us is, One never knows the potential of an individual.
The words l’mishpichosom l’beis avoisom - according to their families, according to their fathers’ household, are repeated many times in this portion. The Medrash tells us that when the Jews received the Torah the nations of the world were jealous. Why are the Jews so privileged? Hashem responded with one request “bring me your daily trees, as the Jews do”, as is written l’mishpichosom l’beis avoisom - according to their families according to their fathers’ household. The commentaries explain that the Torah is eternal, and in order for it to continue, there needs to be a strong bond between father and son to grandson, to create a mesora - tradition passed on from generation.
Shavuos, and bamidbor are strongly intertwined and the message to us is that our eternity is dependent on how much effort we put in to our future generations. A hint to this is also written in the first mishna in Rosh Hashono, B’atzeres al peiros ho’ilan - on Shavuos G-d judges the fruit of the trees”, according to many, this is a hint to our fruit, our children.
Let us remember to utilize this special Holiday and pray to merit an understanding of Torah and reaffirm our commitment to Torah and mitzvohs.
Gut Shabbos
Gut Yom Tov
Tuesday, May 15, 2018
Rosh Chodesh Sivan - Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
The month of Sivan is here. On the first day of this month we arrived at Sinai. This is when and where the final preparations for the BIG event of Kabolas Hatorah (receiving the Torah) took place. We say in the Hagodo on Pesach that arriving at Sinai in itself was a tremendous event, and our sages teach us that Klal Yisroel arrived united as one man with one heart. (Ilu keirvonu lifnei Har Sinai Dayeinu).
King Solomon refers to the day of receiving the Torah as the day of a wedding. Our sages also refer to a phrase in Torah hinting to the same idea (תורה צוה לנו משה מורשה, אל תקרי מורשה אלא מאורסה). We all know that any wedding as small as it may be required preparation, and this is no small wedding. In the holy book Bais Ahron it is repeated that the event of Kabolas Hatorah repeats itself every year. Although not with the same revelation as it was then, whereby everyone saw the thunders and the flames and the smoking mountain, yet it does occur on the Holiday of Shavuos. Specifically this year when we have a Shabbos just prior to Shavuos it is a greater opportunity to prepare ourselves spiritually for this great event.
May we all merit to prepare properly and utilize the next few days to strengthen our commitment to studying Torah and observing its mitzvohs.
A gutten Chodesh,
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
King Solomon refers to the day of receiving the Torah as the day of a wedding. Our sages also refer to a phrase in Torah hinting to the same idea (תורה צוה לנו משה מורשה, אל תקרי מורשה אלא מאורסה). We all know that any wedding as small as it may be required preparation, and this is no small wedding. In the holy book Bais Ahron it is repeated that the event of Kabolas Hatorah repeats itself every year. Although not with the same revelation as it was then, whereby everyone saw the thunders and the flames and the smoking mountain, yet it does occur on the Holiday of Shavuos. Specifically this year when we have a Shabbos just prior to Shavuos it is a greater opportunity to prepare ourselves spiritually for this great event.
May we all merit to prepare properly and utilize the next few days to strengthen our commitment to studying Torah and observing its mitzvohs.
A gutten Chodesh,
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
Sunday, May 6, 2018
News - A victim of Fedex
This past week a jew ( Yaakov Ben Yocheved) was stabbed in manhattan by a FedEx driver and is in critical condition.
The incident happened on 33rd street & 5th ave.
FedEx printed a public apology to the jewish community. Please Daven for a full Recovery for
Yaakov ben Yocheved.
The incident happened on 33rd street & 5th ave.
FedEx printed a public apology to the jewish community. Please Daven for a full Recovery for
Yaakov ben Yocheved.
News - Hard to believe!
Hundreds of Germans celebrated the birthday of Hitler, Ym'sh this past week.
The participants wore Nazi shirts with bold themes of Nazi history.
Thank G-D the German police were mobilized and effectively dispersed the disgusting participants .
The participants wore Nazi shirts with bold themes of Nazi history.
Thank G-D the German police were mobilized and effectively dispersed the disgusting participants .
Friday, May 4, 2018
News
The English Hamodia appears to have captured people's interest. It is the most popular read weekly torah newspaper in the U.S.
Absent of propaganda, no loshon Hora, and substantive articles about all groups, chassidic, litvish and the sefardi community has earned the paper a reputation not to be surpassed.
It is a paper, well written and respectful to all groups. A true Kiddush Hashem
Utenu Kavod LTorah!
Absent of propaganda, no loshon Hora, and substantive articles about all groups, chassidic, litvish and the sefardi community has earned the paper a reputation not to be surpassed.
It is a paper, well written and respectful to all groups. A true Kiddush Hashem
Utenu Kavod LTorah!
Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Lag Ba’omer - from Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
We are approaching a very special day, known as LAG Baomer (33). This is the day in which Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai revealed to his close disciples many hidden Secrets of Torah and then passed on to the world to come. Reb Shimon desired that this day be celebrated for all future generations. There are various different customs related to this holy day. Some of the great chassidic masters wrote that this day has holiness similar to Yom Kippur. The Chasam Sofer writes that it is the beginning of the horizon of Yom Kippur. It is known that twenty four thousand disciples of R’ Akiva died during the days of Omer counting and on the 33rd day the plague stopped.
The Talmud in Yivamos 62, describes the reason for the death, that they failed to honor each other. After their passing the world was barren until Rabbi Akiva went to the south and taught Torah and established five new Rabbis who saved the Torah world. The most prominent was R’ Shimon bar Yochai. Let’s imagine how R’ Akiva must have felt. We know that he only started to learn Torah ate age forty. He reached the highest levels and became the teacher and famous leader of so many great people, and now he was facing such great loss. An ordinary person would have said “it wasn’t meant to be” and at best would move on in life. Reb Akiva is not phased, he begins rebuilding and merited to have the greatest teacher of the hidden secrets of Torah, Rebbe Shimon, as his prime student. This is the message of Lag Ba’omer. No matter what the situation, if one is determined to do the right thing, there’s no limit to what can be reached.
Let us hope that the teachings of R’ Shimon will continue to shed light on all of us and defend us from all harm. May we merit to be blessed.
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
The Talmud in Yivamos 62, describes the reason for the death, that they failed to honor each other. After their passing the world was barren until Rabbi Akiva went to the south and taught Torah and established five new Rabbis who saved the Torah world. The most prominent was R’ Shimon bar Yochai. Let’s imagine how R’ Akiva must have felt. We know that he only started to learn Torah ate age forty. He reached the highest levels and became the teacher and famous leader of so many great people, and now he was facing such great loss. An ordinary person would have said “it wasn’t meant to be” and at best would move on in life. Reb Akiva is not phased, he begins rebuilding and merited to have the greatest teacher of the hidden secrets of Torah, Rebbe Shimon, as his prime student. This is the message of Lag Ba’omer. No matter what the situation, if one is determined to do the right thing, there’s no limit to what can be reached.
Let us hope that the teachings of R’ Shimon will continue to shed light on all of us and defend us from all harm. May we merit to be blessed.
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
Monday, April 30, 2018
The situation in Eretz Yisrorel
Yes there is a difference of opinion how to handle the threats of drafting Yeshiva Bochurim into the army.
The True Gedolim ask us not to get involved. It's not for a yeshiva bochur or yungerleit to start protesting and carrying on with abusive words. And then when you hear the wives of kolel men expressing what 'They Hold'... the whole issue becomes laughable.
We should be saying tehilim that there should be Shalom amongst the different groups. And that type of achdus will bring the Geula shlaima.
The True Gedolim ask us not to get involved. It's not for a yeshiva bochur or yungerleit to start protesting and carrying on with abusive words. And then when you hear the wives of kolel men expressing what 'They Hold'... the whole issue becomes laughable.
We should be saying tehilim that there should be Shalom amongst the different groups. And that type of achdus will bring the Geula shlaima.
Sunday, April 29, 2018
News
Lakewood
A New Mashgiach alongside Maran Harav M Solomon shlita has been selected for the lakewood yeshiva. Morenu Harav Aba Brudna,shlita son of Maran Hagaon Harav shmuel Brudna,zt'l. Has been appointed and is very well accepted by the enthusiastic Talmidim.
Meanwhile every few months the Lakewood population almost doubles bla'h. It is unquestionably the fastest growing Torah community in america.
Monsey
As chassidim continue to populate monsey, price values have gone up dramatically. B'H many New chassidishe Yeshivas are appearing all over monsey.
Utenu Kavod Ltorah
A New Mashgiach alongside Maran Harav M Solomon shlita has been selected for the lakewood yeshiva. Morenu Harav Aba Brudna,shlita son of Maran Hagaon Harav shmuel Brudna,zt'l. Has been appointed and is very well accepted by the enthusiastic Talmidim.
Meanwhile every few months the Lakewood population almost doubles bla'h. It is unquestionably the fastest growing Torah community in america.
Monsey
As chassidim continue to populate monsey, price values have gone up dramatically. B'H many New chassidishe Yeshivas are appearing all over monsey.
Utenu Kavod Ltorah
Friday, April 27, 2018
Dvar Torah - from Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
This week we are privileged to read the portions of Acharei and Kidoshim. (In Israel they are one portion ahead). The portion of Acharei begins describing the service of the High Priest -Kohein Godol, during the holies day of the year, Yom Kippur. The Torah also discusses all the form of prohibited relations and their punishment. The Torah requires that we live a more holy life, and separated from the way of life of other nations.
The portion of Kidoshim has one of the highest amounts of mitzvohs (commandment), than the rest of the Torah portions, both commandments and prohibitions. The greatest and perhaps the litmus test to see where one is holding in his service to Hashem is, “love your fellow man as Yourself.”
Acharei
The Torah (Vayikro 18/2) tells us: “do not perform the practice (deeds) of the land of Egypt and do not perform the practice of the land of Cannan... and do not follow their traditions. One of the great Chassidic masters explains why does the Torah tell us not to follow the practice of the Egyptians or the Cannanites ? The Torah is talking to someone who has bad desires and tells him, “you want to know what one who follows their desires look like ? Look at the faces of the people that gave in to all their desires, see what they look like, and you won’t desire to sin anymore”. There is also a deeper meaning to this phrase. There’s of course practices that are permissible and practices that are prohibited, however, even permissible practices such as eating and drinking need to be performed appropriately and in a manner befitting for a Jew. This is also reiterated in the beginning of the portion Kidoshim. The portion begins with the command Kidoshim tihiyu - you shall be holy! Our sages translate this to mean - Kaddeish atzmicho bimutar loch - one shall sanctify themselves even with what is permissible. Even if something is permitted, it has limits and a manner how to practice as a mentch or as an animal. Being holy means, not only to refrain from what is forbidden, but even what is permitted, should have measure.
The portion of Kidoshim begins, with Hashem telling Moshe to Speak to the entire congregation and tell them “you shall be holy”. Our sages teach us that this portion was said while everyone was gathered together (bihakheil). One may think that to be holy that’s only for a specific element of Klal Yisroel but not for me. This thought is incorrect. Everyone can achieve holiness, of course on different levels, but one can only strive to reach some form of holiness.
It is getting closer to the holiday of Shavuos and these portions are part of the preparation for the upcoming holiday when we will be accepting and receiving the Torah. May we merit to make the appropriate preparations and be worthy of being the Torah Nation.
Gut Shabbos,
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
The portion of Kidoshim has one of the highest amounts of mitzvohs (commandment), than the rest of the Torah portions, both commandments and prohibitions. The greatest and perhaps the litmus test to see where one is holding in his service to Hashem is, “love your fellow man as Yourself.”
Acharei
The Torah (Vayikro 18/2) tells us: “do not perform the practice (deeds) of the land of Egypt and do not perform the practice of the land of Cannan... and do not follow their traditions. One of the great Chassidic masters explains why does the Torah tell us not to follow the practice of the Egyptians or the Cannanites ? The Torah is talking to someone who has bad desires and tells him, “you want to know what one who follows their desires look like ? Look at the faces of the people that gave in to all their desires, see what they look like, and you won’t desire to sin anymore”. There is also a deeper meaning to this phrase. There’s of course practices that are permissible and practices that are prohibited, however, even permissible practices such as eating and drinking need to be performed appropriately and in a manner befitting for a Jew. This is also reiterated in the beginning of the portion Kidoshim. The portion begins with the command Kidoshim tihiyu - you shall be holy! Our sages translate this to mean - Kaddeish atzmicho bimutar loch - one shall sanctify themselves even with what is permissible. Even if something is permitted, it has limits and a manner how to practice as a mentch or as an animal. Being holy means, not only to refrain from what is forbidden, but even what is permitted, should have measure.
The portion of Kidoshim begins, with Hashem telling Moshe to Speak to the entire congregation and tell them “you shall be holy”. Our sages teach us that this portion was said while everyone was gathered together (bihakheil). One may think that to be holy that’s only for a specific element of Klal Yisroel but not for me. This thought is incorrect. Everyone can achieve holiness, of course on different levels, but one can only strive to reach some form of holiness.
It is getting closer to the holiday of Shavuos and these portions are part of the preparation for the upcoming holiday when we will be accepting and receiving the Torah. May we merit to make the appropriate preparations and be worthy of being the Torah Nation.
Gut Shabbos,
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
Thursday, April 26, 2018
Extreme volatility of the stock market
The extreme volatility of the stock market recently, causing much loss of Money is starting to effect The Orthodox Jews as well as non orthodox.
Because the orthodox do not use government
Sponsored education, tuition is high and difficult in the turbulent "Trump Era stock market"
Much of the volatility is caused by the presidents indecision, tweeting threatening words etc..
We hope our Honorable President will do what he needs to bring back a strong upward stock market.
Because the orthodox do not use government
Sponsored education, tuition is high and difficult in the turbulent "Trump Era stock market"
Much of the volatility is caused by the presidents indecision, tweeting threatening words etc..
We hope our Honorable President will do what he needs to bring back a strong upward stock market.
Monday, April 23, 2018
Friday, April 20, 2018
Dvar Torah - from Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
This week we are privileged to read the portions of Sazria and Metzora. (In Israel they are one week ahead). The portion of Sazria begins with the laws pertaining to a woman who gave birth and the offerings she must bring. The Torah also repeats the mitzvah of circumcision - Bris Mila. In the remaining part of Tazria and Metzora, the Torah discusses the different leprosies which can occur either on a person, clothing or a home. Each case must be shown to the Kohen who is to determine whether it is a true leprosy which is impure or just a warning sign. The stringent one of all is leprosy on the human body, which if found to be impure, the plagued individual must leave his home and go outside the residents area and call out loud Tumey tumey - meaning impure, impure, so that people stay away from him. When cured, the mitzora (leprotic) must bring a special offering. These leprosies come onto a human as a punishment for slander and evil talk.
The Ohr Hachaim Hakodosh writes that the reason why we wait until the eighth day to do a Bris, is to ensure that a Shabbos passes, in order to obtain sanctity from the Shabbos in preparation for this holy event. Why is it that the Torah chose specifically in this portion to write that one needs to perform this mitzvah on the eighth day? Perhaps there's a theme connecting this entire portion. The Shem M'Shmuel writes, why is it that at first the Kohen locks person up for seven days to see what develops with the leprosy? It is do that a Shabbos passes by and on Shabbos a person is more focused on his spirituality than on the rest of the week, because when one is less involved in the pursuit of materialism one can connect to his soul better. Therefore the Torah gives him a chance to wait a Shabbos to see if he repents, and the leprosy will disappear. Both, Bris Mila and the Tzoraas (leprosy) bring out the potential of the holy Shabbos.
The commentaries explain why is it that a Metzora needs to yell Tomey Tomey (impure impure), double language ? There are two types of impurities. There's an impurity that is a result of a pure person who came into contact with an impure object, such as a corpse or other impure objects. The impurity is from an outside source a Metzora is impure from the inside, due to his inappropriate behavior toward his fellow human being, this is a much more severe impurity, therefore it requires him to yell twice Tomey (impure). Maybe that is also the connection to Shabbos, as suggested earlier. Shabbos is a day which is sanctified on its own, unlike Yom Tov which is dependent on when we declare Rosh Chodesh (the new month). Let one who is impure on his own do tshuva on the day that is holy on its own.
Gut Shabbos,
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
The Ohr Hachaim Hakodosh writes that the reason why we wait until the eighth day to do a Bris, is to ensure that a Shabbos passes, in order to obtain sanctity from the Shabbos in preparation for this holy event. Why is it that the Torah chose specifically in this portion to write that one needs to perform this mitzvah on the eighth day? Perhaps there's a theme connecting this entire portion. The Shem M'Shmuel writes, why is it that at first the Kohen locks person up for seven days to see what develops with the leprosy? It is do that a Shabbos passes by and on Shabbos a person is more focused on his spirituality than on the rest of the week, because when one is less involved in the pursuit of materialism one can connect to his soul better. Therefore the Torah gives him a chance to wait a Shabbos to see if he repents, and the leprosy will disappear. Both, Bris Mila and the Tzoraas (leprosy) bring out the potential of the holy Shabbos.
The commentaries explain why is it that a Metzora needs to yell Tomey Tomey (impure impure), double language ? There are two types of impurities. There's an impurity that is a result of a pure person who came into contact with an impure object, such as a corpse or other impure objects. The impurity is from an outside source a Metzora is impure from the inside, due to his inappropriate behavior toward his fellow human being, this is a much more severe impurity, therefore it requires him to yell twice Tomey (impure). Maybe that is also the connection to Shabbos, as suggested earlier. Shabbos is a day which is sanctified on its own, unlike Yom Tov which is dependent on when we declare Rosh Chodesh (the new month). Let one who is impure on his own do tshuva on the day that is holy on its own.
Gut Shabbos,
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
Tuesday, April 10, 2018
Friday, March 30, 2018
Dvar Tora - from Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
As Pesach is approaching and we're all preparing for this special night, I want to remind you what is written in Beis Ahron in the name of his father, Reb Osher of Stolin. The reason why the Pesach night meal is called Seder, which means order (arranged), because in this evening we set the tone for the entire year. We are organizing the rest of our future year on this night, and the way we conduct ourselves on this night will have an influence on the entire year. Further the Beis Ahron explains that many mitzvohs are performed throughout the year to commemorate the exodus of Egypt, therefore specifically on this night one should be more tuned in to the way one conducts himself.
In a letter to his followers, the Beis Ahron writes that the tremendous enlightenment that came down to the world during our exodus from Egypt returns every year during this special night and one can draw tremendous spirit from this holiday.
In a letter to his followers, the Beis Ahron writes that the tremendous enlightenment that came down to the world during our exodus from Egypt returns every year during this special night and one can draw tremendous spirit from this holiday.
May we all merit to set a Seder for the entire year in the best possible way and prepare ourselves properly for the ultimate redemption - Lishono Habo b'Yerusholayim habinuyo.
Wishing you all a Happy and Kosher Pesach,
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
Saturday, March 24, 2018
New Sefer about Maran Harav Gustman, zt"l
A new sefer called 'Ish H'eshkolos' was recently published. This Sefer is the life story on one of our previous illustrious Gedolim Maran Harav Yisroel Zev Gustman,zt'l-Rosh Yeshivas Netzach
Yisroel in Rechavia.
Maran Rav Gustman,zt'l was a Talmid of Maran Harav Shimon Shkop, zy"a in Grodna, Poland.
It is in Grodna that he became friends with Maran Harav Chaim Shmulevitz,zt'l and Maran Harav Shmuel Rozovsky,zt'l plus many others.
At the young age of twenty (after he got married) he earned a position on the Beis Din of Vilna headed by Maran Rav Chaim Ozer,zy'a
He was held in high esteem by Gedolei Eretz Yisroel including Maran Harav Schach, Maran Harav Eliyashuv & Maran Harav Shlomo Zalman zt"l.
He often gave shiurim to his talmidim for 2 1/2 hours.
He was niftar in 1982 during the month of June.
Yisroel in Rechavia.
Maran Rav Gustman,zt'l was a Talmid of Maran Harav Shimon Shkop, zy"a in Grodna, Poland.
It is in Grodna that he became friends with Maran Harav Chaim Shmulevitz,zt'l and Maran Harav Shmuel Rozovsky,zt'l plus many others.
At the young age of twenty (after he got married) he earned a position on the Beis Din of Vilna headed by Maran Rav Chaim Ozer,zy'a
He was held in high esteem by Gedolei Eretz Yisroel including Maran Harav Schach, Maran Harav Eliyashuv & Maran Harav Shlomo Zalman zt"l.
He often gave shiurim to his talmidim for 2 1/2 hours.
He was niftar in 1982 during the month of June.
Sunday, March 18, 2018
Saturday, March 17, 2018
Dvar Torah
This week we are privileged to begin the third book of Torah, Vayikra (Leviticus). The portion discusses the various different offerings and sacrifices which one can bring either as atonement or as a gesture of good will. There’s are offerings that are obligatory and those which are relevant only due to an occurrence. The most important element is the intention and the thought during the process.
The portion begins with Hashem calling Moshe and telling him the process of contributing an offering and the laws and details. The word vayikro - and He called is written with a small letter Alef at the end of the word. This can be read as vayikor to mean ant it occurred. Our sages teach us that this was due to Moshe’s humility, he didn’t want to write that Hashem called him but rather that it was an occurrence that it so happened that Hashem spoke with him, and not like the was a steady occurrence.
The Beis Avrohom of Slonim adds another dimension to this phrase. Pious Jews would always draw a message from anything they saw or anything that they heard for serving Hashem. For example, Reb Moshe Leib of Sasov was once traveling and a peasant asked him to help lift a heavy item. Reb Moshe Leib apologized and said I’m sorry but I can’t. “You can, you just don’t want to” responded the peasant. Reb Moshe Leib said that his whole trip was worth it just for that one message he heard from the peasant - you can, you just don’t want. Many times we convince ourselves about different things we should do, that we simply can’t, in reality, we can we just don’t have a desire strong enough.
Says the Beis Avrohom, vayikor el Moshe- anything which occurs to a pious Jew, vayidaber Hashem eilov- Hashem is talking to him. Everything that occurs around us, everything we see and hear, is G-d speaking to us.
In addition to the portion of the week we will be reading excerpts from the portion of Bo which discusses the mitzvah of Rosh Chodesh and the laws of the Pesach offering. As we all know we are dependent on the lunar calendar. The moon is renewed every month, as do we. The Jewish nation has the ability to renew and start anew, even from the most difficult situations spiritually and physically. As our sages teach us Jews are compared to the moon, they may look like they are about disappear and they renew like a full moon. Our sages teach us that the month of Nisson has the juice to feed us all year. Let us utilize it and be blessed with the power of renewal for the better in all areas of life.
Gut Shabbos
Gut Chodesh,
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
The portion begins with Hashem calling Moshe and telling him the process of contributing an offering and the laws and details. The word vayikro - and He called is written with a small letter Alef at the end of the word. This can be read as vayikor to mean ant it occurred. Our sages teach us that this was due to Moshe’s humility, he didn’t want to write that Hashem called him but rather that it was an occurrence that it so happened that Hashem spoke with him, and not like the was a steady occurrence.
The Beis Avrohom of Slonim adds another dimension to this phrase. Pious Jews would always draw a message from anything they saw or anything that they heard for serving Hashem. For example, Reb Moshe Leib of Sasov was once traveling and a peasant asked him to help lift a heavy item. Reb Moshe Leib apologized and said I’m sorry but I can’t. “You can, you just don’t want to” responded the peasant. Reb Moshe Leib said that his whole trip was worth it just for that one message he heard from the peasant - you can, you just don’t want. Many times we convince ourselves about different things we should do, that we simply can’t, in reality, we can we just don’t have a desire strong enough.
Says the Beis Avrohom, vayikor el Moshe- anything which occurs to a pious Jew, vayidaber Hashem eilov- Hashem is talking to him. Everything that occurs around us, everything we see and hear, is G-d speaking to us.
In addition to the portion of the week we will be reading excerpts from the portion of Bo which discusses the mitzvah of Rosh Chodesh and the laws of the Pesach offering. As we all know we are dependent on the lunar calendar. The moon is renewed every month, as do we. The Jewish nation has the ability to renew and start anew, even from the most difficult situations spiritually and physically. As our sages teach us Jews are compared to the moon, they may look like they are about disappear and they renew like a full moon. Our sages teach us that the month of Nisson has the juice to feed us all year. Let us utilize it and be blessed with the power of renewal for the better in all areas of life.
Gut Shabbos
Gut Chodesh,
Rabbi Yitzchok Wolpin
Thursday, March 15, 2018
Cleveland Kolel - a big success
The Cleveland Kolel - Yad Chaim Mordechai under the leadership of Hagaon Rav Yaakov V. Katz, shlit"a, son of the founder of Telz in Cleveland, Maran Harav Chaim Mordechai Katz, zt"l, is a tremendous success, attracting yungeleit from all over.
The new beautiful building serving as the Beis Medrash is truly magnificent and a display of
Kovod Hatorah!
The new beautiful building serving as the Beis Medrash is truly magnificent and a display of
Kovod Hatorah!
כי ממנו ניקח
"קדושינו אבות החסידות זי"ע אמרו שלא די לו לאיש שיתאפק מתאוותיו הרעות, רק גם חוב עליו להפוך כל רצון רע לקדושה, שברצון הזה שרצה את הרע, מעתה את הטוב ואת הקדושה ירצה. וכנ"ל מצאו בקדשם לזה רמז בתורה בהא שאמר משה רבינו לפרעה כי ממנו ניקח לעבוד את ד', גם ממנו מן החלק הבהמי הרע ניקח לעבודת ד'"
(הכשרת האברכים פרק ט)
מרא דנפש שלך
"אם באמת רוצה אתה שלא תהיה חס ושלום מן הרשעים שהם ברשות לבם רק מהצדיקים שלבם ברשותם ולא תהא הפקר ונכנע לכל תאווה חס ושלום, רק אתה תהיה מול על עצמך מרא דנפש שלך (דברים רבה פרשה ב) ... אז צריך אתה להתחיל בהתרגשויות קטנות המתרחשות בך.
למשל אם הביאו לפניך באכילתך שני מיני בשר, ונפלה הבטתך על מין אחד כי תתאווה לזה המין יותר, אז אכול מין השני וחתיכה זו שאתה מתאווה לה אל תאכל, ולא תאמר ומה בכל הלא גם זו של התר, וגם אין תאוותי כל כך חזקה עד שיהיה לי חוב לעמוד נגדה, רחם עליך ועל נפשך והחל את מלחמתך בניצני תאוותך הקטנים ועשה את עצמך לאיש גיבור חיל המושל על עצמו, ולבו אף כולו בידו"
(הכשרות האברכים פרק ט)
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