‫חיינו‬ Weekly Torah Study New! Chumash Rashi Margolin Edition - Feldheim See page 31 98 THE WEEK OF SHIMCHAS TORAH PARSHAS BEREISHIS October 16 - 22, 2011 ‫שבוע של‬ ‫שמחת תורה‬ ‫פרשת בראשית‬ ‫ כ"ד תשרי ה'תשע"ב‬- ‫י"ח‬ ,‫לימוד התורה בכל יום ויום נוגע בנפשות ממש‬ ,‫ כי אם גם בנפשות בני ביתו‬,‫לא לבד בנפש הלומד‬ ‫שאז אויר הבית הוא אויר תורה ויראת שמים‬ Torah study every day is crucial to life itself. This applies not only to the soul of the one studying, but also to the souls of his family. For then (through Torah study) the atmosphere of the home becomes an atmosphere of Torah and piety. (‫ – )היום יום – ד‘ חשון‬Hayom Yom, Cheshvan 4 ‫חיינו‬ CHAYENU Founders Director Managing Director Business Manager Advisory Board Contributing Editors Typesetting • Louis Pearlman, Mendel Goldman • Michoel Goldman • Yossi Pels • Hillel Lofaso • Yosef Yitzchok Jacobson; Dovid Olidort • Chaim Drizin; Yossi Pels • Mendel Shemtov; Yaakov Bock • Mendy Cohen; Gedalia Bluming; Izzinizm Chayenu is a beneficiary of The Tomchei Torah Academy Trust Johannesburg, South Africa whose vision and dedication has made this possible The material included in this publication is copyrighted by the publishers. It may not be duplicated or reprinted in any format or for any purpose without express permission of the respective publishing house. Is reprinted here with permission of the publishers. Much of the material is selected excerpts. For a more comprehensive learning experience or to purchase the original book, visit the publisher‫׳‬s website. We thank our participating publishers for sharing the following material: Feldheim Publishers – Chumash with Rashi & Haftorah Kehot Publication Society – Tanya, HaYom-Yom, Rebbe Responsa, Chassidus & Geulah Moznaim Publishing Co. – Rambam‫׳‬s Mishneh Torah Sichos In English – Sefer HaMitzvos, Halacha, Chasidic Story & Pirkei Avos Purity Press – English Synopsis of Likutei Torah The Avner Institute – The Rebbe's English Letters For subscriptions, please visit www.chayenu.org For queries and comments, please email [email protected] For shipping related issues, email [email protected] This magazine is © copyrighted by Chayenu, Inc.–2011 Chayenu is a not-for-profit organization CHAYENU is printed weekly, in NYC, USA, on 40% post-consumer recycled paper. For sacred burial solutions, visit www.shaimos.org ‫חיינו‬ ‫ב׳׳ה‬ Chayenu THE WEEK OF SHIMCHAS TORAH PARSHAS BEREISHIS October 16 - 22, 2011 ‫שבוע של‬ ‫שמחת תורה‬ ‫פרשת בראשית‬ ‫ כ"ד תשרי ה'תשע"ב‬- ‫י"ח‬ Vol. 4, No. 4 Dedicated to our Family By Anonymous TABLE OF CONTENTS: Chumash with Rashi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Tanya . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Rambam – One Chapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Rambam – Sefer HaMitzvos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150 HaYom-Yom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154 Parsha Insights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159 Geulah Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165 Chassidus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168 Rebbe Responsa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174 Teffilah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177 Moadim - Shemini Atzeres / Simchas Torah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180 Chassidic Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183 THE DAILY STUDY OF CHUMASH WITH RASHI The custom of studying a daily portion of Chumash from the weekly Sedra dates back hundreds of years. The Ba’al HaTanya & Shulchan Aruch, Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi instituted the practice of studying the weekly Sedra - accompanied by Rashi’s commentary - one portion per day. - Hayom Yom “Rashi’s commentary on Chumash is the ‘wine’ of Torah. It unlocks one's heart and reveals one's innate and elemental love and awe [of G-d]”. - Ba’al HaTanya V’Shulchan Aruch, The Alter Rebbe The Alter Rebbe once announced “One ought to live with the times!” Chassidim were puzzled by the meaning of these words. Later, it was explained, that this means, not only to study the weekly Parsha, but to live with it, incorporating its lessons into our own life as a personal experience. - Hayom Yom “One ought to be scrupulous about the observance of studying a portion of Chumash with Rashi’s commentary each day (Sunday until Sheini, Monday until Shlishi, etc.). This affects him, his children and grandchildren.” - The Previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok "Studying a parshah of Chumash every day with the commentary of Rashi acti- vates the light in the soul and the revelation of the soul - which is a glow of the revelation of Mashiach." - Kovetz Lubavitch “This custom is not only for Chassidim, but for all Jews.” - The Previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok The Sha’ar HaMitzvos writes that the holy Arizal would study the portion of the week’s Sedra each day after Shachris, while wearing Talis & Tefillin. The Lubavitcher Rebbe ‫ זי"ע‬- in his letters to Jews of all persuasions and often in response to requests for blessings regarding wellbeing - continuously urges the daily study of Chumash with Rashi (as part of ‘Chitas’: the daily study of Chumash, Tehillim & Tanya) and emphasizes the tremendous fringe benefit this brings in all areas of one’s life, serving as a broad conduit for Divine countenance. Chumash ‫חומש‬ DAILY ‫פירוש רש״י‬ with Rashi NEW CHUMASH – SEE PAGE 31 Note: The study schedule for Chumash this week follows the Diaspora Holiday schedule, where Simchas Torah is on Friday. In Eretz Yisroel (Israel) it is as follows: Thursday – one completes V’zos HaBeracha (from 5th portion until the end), and studies Bereishis until end of 5th portion. Friday – the 6th portion and Shabbos – the 7th. - THE MARGOLIN EDITION Chumash translated by Rabbi Binyomin Moore Rashi Elucidation by Rabbi Kalman Michoel Moore Published by Feldheim Publishers Available for purchase at Feldheim.com © All Rights Reserved Chumash: Friday 31 | Chayenu: Bereishis, 5772 The Margolin Edition Chumash: Haftorah Bereishis © By Feldheim Publishers October 16 - 22, 2011 | 90 :‫ָשה ְק ִה ַּלת ַי ֲעקֹב‬ ׁ ָ ‫ֹשה מוֹר‬ ׁ ֶ ‫ּתוֹרָה ִצ ּוָה ָלנ ּו מ‬ “The Torah that Moshe commanded us is the heritage of the Congregation of Yaakov.” (33:4) QUESTION: How can we reconcile our pasuk with Rabbi Yosi’s statement (Avot 2:12) “Prepare yourselves for the study of Torah ‘she’einah yerushah lach’ — for it does not come to you through inheritance”? ANSWER: Torah is indeed the inheritance of the Jewish community at large; however, this does not apply to the individual. He cannot rely on the Torah’s inherited dimension, but must study diligently and make every effort to acquire Torah knowledge. The Gemara (Berachot 57a) says, “Read not ‘morashah’ — ‘inheritance’ — but ‘me’orasah’ — ‘betrothed,’ “ — meaning that the Jewish people and the Torah are betrothed to each other like a bride and groom. What was the intent of the sages in changing the word? A chatan and kallah during the period of eirusin — betrothal — experience the highest degree of love. It is for this reason that when King Shlomo in Song of Songs portrays the Hashem’s love for the Jewish people, he describes it as the love between a chatan and kallah anticipating their marriage. Perhaps our sages were puzzled by the contradiction between our pasuk and the statement in Pirkei Avot. Therefore, they said, “Read not ‘morashah’ — ‘inheritance’ — because Torah is not an inheritance. Read ‘me’orasah’ — ‘betrothed’ “ — and the Torah is telling us that the inherent infinite love that each and every Jew has for Torah motivating him to be ready to give his life for it, is a quality which is an inheritance of the Jewish people and instilled in the heart of every Jew. ______________________________________ An Excerpt from “Vedibarta Bam” By Rabbi Moshe Bogomilsky Published & Copyright by Sichos In English 93 | Chayenu: Bereishis, 5772 THE DAILY STUDY OF TANYA • Tanya is the ‘Bible’ of Chasidic thought system & way of life. It was written by The Alter Rebbe, Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the founder of Chabad Chasidus (and successor to the Baal–Shem–Tov & Mezritcher Maggid), to serve as the primary reference book for one’s Divine service, outlining the spiritual roadmap of life, based on Jewish Mysticism. • Twenty years of writing, editing and fine–tuning, by the Alter Rebbe, went into composing Tanya, with every single word and even letter being carefully weighed and scrutinized. • Tanya has five sections: 1. Likkutei Amarim – which deals primarily with man’s internal struggle between his two souls, divine & animal, and guides one in the mastery of this struggle. 2. Sha’ar HaYichud V’haEmunah – A study on the unity of G–d. 3. Iggeres HaTeshuvah – A Halachic/Mystic analysis of repentance. 4. Iggeres HaKodesh – A collection of letters/essays, elaborating a variety of passages of Torah, illuminating them with a spiritual interpretation. 5. Kuntres Acharon – Final appendixes of a similar nature. • The name “Tanya” ‫( תניא‬besides being the opening word), when rearranged spells ‫“( איתן‬Eitan”), which is a reference to the Essence of the Soul, its power and strength. Studying or reading Tanya is said to elicit that core Essence. • 53 Epistles of Tanya (the Likkutei Amarim section), correspond to the 53 Torah portions of the year. • The daily study of Tanya was instituted by the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, of blessed memory, in the year 5703/1943, and has been immensely encouraged by the Rebbe, as a study for all Jews. (The annual cycle begins on the 19th of Kislev, the “Rosh Hashanah” for Chasidus, and the anniversary of the liberation of the author from Czarist prison, after suffering oppression due to his revolutionary approach of teaching and spreading the Inner Torah.) • In 1984 / 5744, The Lubavitcher Rebbe launched a campaign to print Tanya in every major city in the world. To date, over 5500 editions of Tanya have been printed, and it has been translated into over 7 languages. Tanya ‫תניא‬ DAILY Thank you to Rabbi Chaim Dalfin who introduced us to the wonders of Tanya. - Eliezer and Dee Slavutin 98 THE LINEAR TANYA PROJECT For the very first time, we are launching the Hebrew–English Linear Tanya. While maintaining the original sacred text of Tanya, we have also included a Hebrew text with vowels, geared for the beginner, as an aid to study and master the Hebrew text. We are confident that this revolutionary approach will greatly enhance the study of this classic work and further disseminate the teachings of Chassidus in ways which were previously inaccessible. This project is a collaborative effort between Kehot Publication Society and Chayenu. Tanya is the exclusive property and copyright of Kehot Publication Society. Chayenu is ever–grateful to Kehot for affording us the privilege of this precious endeavor. The Tanya is a profound philosophical work and requires in–depth elaboration and extensive commentary. Due to the nature of Chayenu’s weekly publication, we have only included a most basic translation in our booklet. The translation of this part of Tanya is by Rabbi Nissen Mindel, with inclusions from The Lessons–In–Tanya translation by Rabbis Levi and Sholom Wineberg. For a more comprehensive study, we encourage you to consider purchasing “Lessons in Tanya” from Kehot, or other similar works – such as the acclaimed audio series "A Tale of Two Souls" by Rabbi YY Jacobson" – which elucidate the text with increased clarity. Note: The Hebrew linear text (with vowels) has been edited to include corrections based on ‫לוח התיקון‬ and ‫( הערות ותיקונים בדרך אפשר‬the latter are marked with footnotes). Kehot Publication Society 718.778.0226 www.kehot.com ‫י"ט תשרי‬ ‫י"ח תשרי‬ Tanya: Sunday-Monday October 16 - 22, 2011 | 96 Tanya: Sunday IGERES HAKODESH, Epistle twenty three Sunday, 18 Tishrei ‫יום ראשון י"ח תשרי‬ The Flow This letter discusses the meaning of The Shechina’s in-dwelling, and the appropriate behavior in the presence of The Shechina. Previously, a distinction was made between the expression, that amidst a quorum (Minyan) of ten, “the Shechina resides” and the statement that “even an individual who studies Torah is rewarded”. In today’s lesson: The reward for toiling in Torah is the Divine light that radiates within the soul which studies it. The difference between causing an indwelling and the allotment of a reward is understood to those who discern knowledge. For the “allotment of a reward” is when G-d irradiates “the soul that seeks Him” with the light of Torah, which is truly the wrapping of His garment — wherefore the Torah is called “light”, as it is written: “He wraps (Himself in) light, as (with) a garment.” But because the soul is limited and finite in all its powers, therefore, the light of G-d that radiates in it is also limited, contracted, and vests itself in (the soul). That is why the heart of those who seek the Lord is deeply moved at the time of prayer, or the like. For their heart rejoices in Him and exults “Even with exultation and song,” and their soul delights in the pleasantness of the Lord and His light as it becomes revealed throught the covering in which He garbs (Himself) —the Torah; “And His arrow comes forth like lightning.” This is the allotment of the reward for Torah, which is always fixed in the soul that labors in it. 101 | Chayenu: Bereishis, 5772 ׁ ׁ ׁ‫ְה ֶה ְפ ֵר‬ ‫ש ָר ָאה‬ ְ ‫ש ּבֵין ַה‬ ֶ ‫ש‬ ַ‫ו‬ ׂ ‫ִל ְק ִביעוּת ָשכָר‬ :‫מ ּובָן ִל ְמ ִבינֵי ַמ ּדָע‬ ‫ׂכָר הוּא‬ ‫יעת ָש‬ ַ ‫ ְק ִב‬,‫ִּכי‬ ׁ ׁ‫ֶפ‬ ׁ ,”ּ‫ש ּנו‬ ֶ ‫ְר‬ ְ ‫ש ִּתד‬ ֶ ‫“לנ‬ ְ ’‫ש ֵּמ ִאיר ה‬ ֶ – ּ ּ ,‫תו‬ ֹ ‫ְאור תֹו ָר‬ ֹ‫ב‬ ׁ ּ ,ׁ ‫ׁו ַמ ָמש‬ ֹ‫שהוּא ַמ ֲע ֵטה ְלב ּוש‬ ֶ ּ ,”‫“אור‬ ֹ ‫ִק ֵראת ַהתֹו ָרה‬ ְ ‫ו ְָלכֵן נ‬ ׁ :‫ֶא ַמר‬ ֱ ‫ֶש ּנ‬ ,”‫ַש ְל ָמה‬ ַׂ ּ ‫אור ּכ‬ ֹ ‫“עו ֶטה‬ ֹ ׁ‫ֶפ‬ ‫ְלית‬ ִ ‫ְתכ‬ ַ ‫ַע ַלת ּגְבוּל ו‬ ֲ ‫ש ִהיא ּב‬ ֶ ‫ְה ּנ‬ ַ‫ו‬ ּ ,‫יה‬ ָ ‫ֹּחו ֶת‬ ֹ ‫ְבכָל כ‬ ּ‫אור ה’ ַה ֵּמ ִאיר ּבָה‬ ֹ ‫ָלכֵן ּגַם‬ ,‫ ְמצו ְּמ ָצם‬,‫הוּא ּגְבו ִּלי‬ ׁ‫ו ִּמ ְת ַל ֵּב‬ ּ ‫ְתוכ‬ ,‫ָה‬ ֹ ‫ש ּב‬ ‫ְעל ּכֵן‬ ַ‫ו‬ ׁ ’‫ַק ֵשי ה‬ ְּ ‫ִת ָּפ ֵעל ֵלב ְמב‬ ְ‫י‬ ׁ ּ,‫ש ַעת ַה ְּת ִפ ָּלה ְו ַכיֹּו ֵצא ּבָה‬ ְ ‫ִּב‬ ,‫ׂ ַמח ִל ּבָם‬ ‫בו ִי ְש‬ ֹ ‫ִּכי‬ ,”‫ִילת ו ְַר ּנֵן‬ ַ ‫“אף ּג‬ ַ ‫ְו ָיגֵל‬ ׁ ּ ’‫ְנו ַעם ה‬ ֹ ‫ַפ ָשם ב‬ ְ ‫ְת ְת ַע ּנֵג נ‬ ִ‫ו‬ ,‫ְאו ֹרו‬ ֹ ‫ ַעל ה’] ו‬:‫[ ֹנו ַסח ַא ֵחר‬ ‫תו‬ ֹ ‫ָלו‬ ֹ ‫ְה ּג‬ ִ ‫ּב‬ ‫ׁו‬ ֹ‫ִמ ַּמ ֲע ֵטה ְלב ּוש‬ ׁ ,‫ש ִהיא ַה ּתֹו ָרה‬ ֶ ּ ,‫ָרק ִחצֹּו‬ ָ ‫ָצא כַב‬ ָ ‫ְוי‬ ׂ ּ ,‫יעת ְשכַר ַהתֹו ָרה‬ ַ ‫ְזו ִהיא ְק ִב‬ ֹ‫ו‬ ׁ‫ֶפ‬ ּ ּ ּ.‫ש ַע ֵמ ָלה ּבָה‬ ֶ ‫ַה ְּקבו ָּעה ָת ִמיד ְבנ‬ IGERES HAKODESH, Epistle twenty five in the materiality of this world and dispensing to the nations wealth and honor, and all physical pleasures. Jews, however, elicit (sustenance) from the aspect of the Supernal Face, as it is written: “May the Lord cause His Face to radiate unto you,” in each one according to the root of his soul, up to the most elevated of levels. Tanya: Shabbos ,‫ה ּזֶה‬-‫ם‬ ַ ‫עו ָל‬ ֹ ‫ְח ְמ ִריּוּת‬ ָ ‫ּב‬ ׁ ‫ש ַּפ ַעת ָלאו ּּמֹות‬ ְ ‫ו ַּמ‬ ׁ ׁ .‫ש ִמ ּיִים‬ ְ ‫ָבוד ְוכָל ַּת ֲענ ּוגִים ַּג‬ ֹ ‫שר ְוכ‬ ֶ ‫עו‬ ֹ ׁ ּ ‫ש ֵא‬-‫ה‬ ,‫ָׂר ֵאל‬ ‫כֵן ִי ְש‬-‫ין‬ ֶ ּ ‫ַמ‬ ,‫ְחינַת ָּפנִים ָה ֶע ְל ֹיונִים‬ ִ ‫ְקים ִמ ּב‬ ִ ‫ֹיונ‬ ׁ :‫ש ּכָתוּב‬ ֶ ‫ְמו‬ ֹ ‫ּכ‬ ָ ,”‫ָאר ה’ ָּפנָיו ֵא ֶליך‬ ֵ ‫“י‬ ׁ ׁ‫ש ֶֹר‬ ׁ ‫ְא ָחד ְל ִפי‬ ‫תו‬ ֹ ‫ש ָמ‬ ְ ִ‫ש נ‬ ֶ ‫ּכָל ֶא ָחד ו‬ :‫לות‬ ֹ ‫ַעד רוּם ַה ַּמ ֲע‬ The Traveller’s Prayer - ‫תפילת הדרך‬ ‫ידנ ּו‬ ֵ ‫ְת ְצ ִע‬ ַ ‫ ו‬.‫ׁשלוֹם‬ ָ ‫יכנ ּו ְל‬ ֵ ‫ׁש ּתו ִֹל‬ ֶ .ּ‫ל ֵֹהי אֲבו ֵֹתינו‬-‫ל ֵֹהינ ּו וֵא‬-ֱ‫ָי א‬-ְ‫י ְִהי רָצוֹן ִמ ְל ָפנֶי ָך י‬ ‫ׂ ְמ ָחה‬ ‫יענ ּו ִל ְמחוֹז ֶח ְפ ֵצנ ּו ְל ַח ּיִים ו ְּל ִש‬ ֵ ‫ְת ִּג‬ ַ ‫ ו‬.‫ׁשלוֹם‬ ָ ‫ ו ְִת ְס ְמ ֵכנ ּו ְל‬.‫ׁשלוֹם‬ ָ ‫יכנ ּו ְל‬ ֵ ‫ְת ְד ִר‬ ַ ‫ ו‬.‫ׁשלוֹם‬ ָ ‫ְל‬ ‫אוֹיֵב‬-‫ילנ ּו ִמ ַּכף ָּכל‬ ֵ ‫ְת ִצ‬ ַ ‫ו‬ .)‫שלוֹם‬ ׁ ָ ‫ְת ֲחזִירֵנ ּו ְל‬ ַ ‫ו‬:‫(ואם דעתו לחזור מיד אומר‬ .‫ׁשלוֹם‬ ָ ‫ו ְּל‬ ‫ ו ְִת ְׁש ַלח‬.‫ֻּר ָענִ ּיוֹת ַה ִּמ ְתר ְַּגׁשוֹת ו ָּבאוֹת ָלעו ָֹלם‬ ְ ‫ ו ִּמ ָּכל פ‬.‫וְאוֹרֵב ו ְִל ְס ִטים ו ְַח ּיוֹת רָעוֹת ַּב ֶּדרֶך‬ ‫ֲמים ְּב ֵעינֶי ָך ו ְּב ֵעינֵי ָכל‬ ִ ‫ל ֵחן ו ְּל ֶח ֶסד ו ְּל ַרח‬ )‫יחיד‬ ְ ’‫(בל‬ ּ‫ ו ְִת ְּתנֵנִ י‬.ּ‫ָדינו‬ ֵ ‫ׂה י‬ ‫ָכה ְּב ָכל ַמ ֲע ֵש‬ ָ ‫ְּבר‬ :‫ ִּכי ַא ָּתה ׁשו ֵֹמ ַע ְּת ִפ ַלת ָּכל ֶּפה‬.ּ‫ ו ְִת ְׁש ַמע קוֹל ְּת ִפ ָּל ֵתינו‬.‫ֲס ִדים טו ִֹבים‬ ָ ‫ ו ְִת ְג ְמ ֵלנ ּו ח‬.ּ‫רו ֵֹאינו‬ ‫ָי ׁשו ֵֹמ ַע ְּת ִפ ָלה‬-ְ‫ָּברו ְּך ַא ָּתה י‬ Translation: May it be Your will, G-d, our G-d and the G-d of our fathers, that You should lead us in peace and direct our steps in peace, and guide us in peace, and support us in peace, and cause us to reach our destination in life, joy, and peace (If one intends to return immediately, one adds: and return us in peace). Save us from every enemy and ambush, from robbers and wild beasts on the trip, and from all kinds of punishments that rage and come to the world. May You confer blessing upon the work of our hands and grant me grace, kindness, and mercy in Your eyes and in the eyes of all who see us, and bestow upon us abundant kindness and hearken to the voice of our prayer, for You hear the prayers of all. Blessed are You G-d, who hearkens to prayer. October 16 - 22, 2011 | 110 ‫מורה שיעור למעגל שלשה פרקים ליום‬ ‫של לימוד משנה תורה להרמב”ם ז”ל‬ 3-Chapters-Per-Day Study Schedule For Daily Rambam Study* ‫מוקדש לעילוי נשמת הרה”ת מנחם מענדל בן יבלחט"א ר' ישראל הכהן דערען שי‬ In everlasting loving memory of Rabbi Mendy Deren Day Sun Date 18 Tishrei Schedule Sefer Tahara, Hilchos Tum’as Meis, Chapter 21-23. Mon 19 Tishrei Sefer Tahara, Hilchos Tum’as Meis, Ch. 24-25. Hilchos Parah Adumah, Ch. 1. Tues 20 Tishrei Sefer Tahara, Hilchos Parah Adumah, Chapter 2-4. Wed 21 Tishrei Sefer Tahara, Hilchos Parah Adumah, Chapter 5-7. Thurs 22 Tishrei Sefer Tahara, Hilchos Parah Adumah, Chapter 8-10. Fri 23 Tishrei Sefer Tahara, Hilchos Parah Adumah, Chapter 11-13. Shab 24 Tishrei Sefer Tahara, Hilchos Parah Adumah, Ch. 14-15. Hilchos Tzora’as, Chapter 1. ‫שיעור‬ ,‫ספר טהרה‬ ,‫הל’ טומאת מת‬ .‫כג‬-‫פרק כא‬ ,‫ספר טהרה‬ ,‫הל' טומאת מת‬ .‫כה‬-‫פרק כד‬ ..‫הל' פרה אדומה‬ .‫ פרק א‬.‫בפרקים אלו‬ ,‫ספר טהרה‬ ,‫הל’ פרה אדומה‬ .‫ד‬-‫פרק ב‬ ,‫ספר טהרה‬ ,‫הל’ פרה אדומה‬ .‫ז‬-‫פרק ה‬ ,‫ספר טהרה‬ ,‫הל’ פרה אדומה‬ .‫י‬-‫פרק ח‬ ,‫ספר טהרה‬ ,‫הל’ פרה אדומה‬ .‫יג‬-‫פרק יא‬ ,‫ספר טהרה‬ ,‫הל' פרה אדומה‬ .‫טו‬-‫פרק יד‬ ..‫הל' צרעת‬ .‫ פרק א‬.‫בפרקים אלו‬ ‫תאריך‬ ‫יח תשרי‬ ‫יום‬ ‫א‬ ‫יט תשרי‬ ‫ב‬ ‫ב תשרי‬ ‫ג‬ ‫כא תשרי‬ ‫ד‬ ‫כב תשרי‬ ‫ה‬ ‫כג תשרי‬ ‫ו‬ ‫שבת כד תשרי‬ *This cycle of Three-Chapters-Per-Day is the flagship study schedule of daily Rambam Study. While Chayenu does not include it, we salute those who observe it. For a comprehensive understanding of the various study cycles, refer to the Overview printed at the beginning of the Rambam section. 111 | Chayenu: Bereishis, 5772 THE DAILY STUDY OF RAMBAM The Daily Rambam Study Cycle is an institution of The Lubavitcher Rebbe ‫זי״ע‬. Since its launch in 5744 (1984), thousands of Jews around the world have adopted this practice. What follows is a brief overview of the advantage of this unique daily Torah study. Jewish Unity via Torah 1. Torah-Study, in general, unites a Jew with Hashem‫׳‬s Supreme Knowledge and Will in ‫״‬a wonderful union, like which there is none other.‫״‬ 2. Additionally, Torah unites Jews with one another. 3. Torah is eternal. Hence, the bond forged between Jews through Torah is also eternal. 4. This is enhanced when a number of Jews study the very same subject in Torah. 5. Especially, when this common subject is studied simultaneously. 6. The above-mentioned unity of Jews through Torah can be produced by learning any topic. However, the ultimate unity is produced by learning something which in itself encompasses the entire Torah. In this way, the subject matter itself is a unifying one. Why RAMBAM? Rambam‫׳‬s Mishneh Torah is unique in that it is the only book of Halacha that includes the entire Torah, as Maimonides himself writes in the introduction, calling it ‫״‬a compendium of the entire Oral Torah.‫״‬ Hence the name: ‫״‬Mishneh Torah‫( ״‬Repetition of the Torah) for ‫״‬a person who first reads the Written Torah and then this work will know from it the whole of the Oral Torah.‫ ״‬And, he writes, it is written ‫״‬in plain language and terse style, so that the entire Oral Torah might become systematically known to all.‫״‬ There is another important advantage to learning Mishneh Torah, namely learning Halacha, the laws of the Torah – ‫״‬study which brings to deed‫״‬. In this regard, Mishneh Torah is unique. Unlike other halachic works which omit certain laws, such as those which do not apply in exile (laws concerning the Beis HaMikdosh), or those applicable to gentiles (The Seven Laws of Noah), Rambam‫׳‬s Mishneh Torah explains all the halachos in Torah, including those relevant to the future redemption. Therefore, when a person learns Mishneh Torah, he fulfills the mitzvah of studying and knowing all the Torah‫׳‬s laws. Study Cycles There are 3 study cycles: 1. Three chapters per day–completing all fourteen volumes in (less than) one year. 2. One chapter per day–completing the entire Mishneh Torah in three years. 3. Sefer HaMitzvos – also authored by Rambam as an introduction to Mishneh Torah – those mitzvos which correspond to the three-chapters-per-day cycle, completing it in one year. These options make it possible for everyone to participate in this collective unified effort, regardless of level of knowledge. It is something that can be studied by all: Men, women & children. While the three-chapters-per-day study cycle is the ultimate course to take, it is beyond the scope of our publication. Chayenu focuses primarily on the one-chapter-per-day study cycle. The Sefer Hamitzvos daily synopsis, though, does run parallel to the former course and albeit brief, allows one to be alligned with the current theme of the most advanced cycle. NOTE: The final Halachic ruling does not necessarily follow Rambam’s view. This study should not be regarded as a reference for decisive action. For this, more recent Halachic works or Rabbinical counsel should be sought. Rambam ‫רמב"ם‬ DAILY ‫לזכות‬ ‫חיים‬-‫שמעון ושרה בן‬ ‫שיתברכו מן השמים‬ ‫בכל טוב גשמיות ורוחניות גם יחד‬ ‫ונחת אמיתי מיוצאי חלציהם‬ The study schedule for Rambam - 3 chapters daily can be found on page 111 98 Translated by Rabbi Eliyahu Touger Copyright by Moznaim Publishing Co. Reprinted with permission. We have only included the text of Mishneh Torah. The original translation includes many valuable footnotes and commentary. For a comprehensive study, consider purchasing the full set (or individual volumes) from the publisher: Moznaim Publishing Co. 718.438.7680 Rambam: Sunday ‫ י‘‘ח תשרי‬,‫יום ראשון‬ Published by Moznaim Publishing October 16 - 22, 2011 | 114 Rambam: Sefer Mishpotim, Hilchos She’eilah Ufikodon Sunday, October 16 115 | Chayenu Bereishis 5772 The Complete Hebrew-English Mishneh Torah Rambam: Daily Sefer Hamitzvos  ‫מצוות‬ Rambam: Sefer Hamitzvos with Daily Synopsis Dedicate this section and assist the furtherance of Torah study worldwide! Sefer HaMitzvos was written by the Rambam (Maimonides) as a prelude to his 14-volume Compendium “Mishneh Torah”, which would detail the particulars of all 613 commandments. The purpose of this book was to determine and establish which are the 613 commandments of the Torah, as there was some controversy regarding this. In every Mitzvah, Rambam quotes the verse-source, and often clarifies the principles and guidelines we follow to ascertain its inclusion. This daily study cycle runs parallel to the 3-chapters-per-day cycle, and covers (briefly) all 613 Mitzvos in the course of the year. The original was written in Arabic. It was translated to Hebrew by Rabbi Moses Ibn Tibon. This new English translation is by Dayan Berel Bell of Montreal, and is published by Sichos in English. Sunday, 18 Tishrei, 5772 – October 16, 2011* ❧ The 107th mitzvah is that we are commanded regarding the tumah conveyed by a dead body. This mitzvah includes all the laws relating to tumas meis. Monday, 19 Tishrei, 5772 – October 17, 2011* ❧ The 107th mitzvah is Printed in the previous lesson. ❧ The 113th mitzvah is that we are commanded to prepare the red heifer to have it ready for the procedure of purifying those who are tameh as a result of tumas meis. The source of this commandment is G‑d’s statement (exalted be He), “[A ritually clean person shall gather up the cow’s ashes and...] it shall be a keepsake for the congregation of the Jewish people.”  The details of this mitzvah are found in the tractate devoted to this subject, tractate Parah.  October 16 - 22, 2011 | 150 ----------------------- 98 ------------------------ ‫שיעור תהלים יומי‬ Daily Portion of Tehilim ‫מוקדש לעילוי נשמת הרה”ת לוי יצחק בן זלמן יודא דייטש ע”ה‬ Day Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Shabbos Date 18 Tishrei 19 Tishrei 20 Tishrei 21 Tishrei 22 Tishrei 23 Tishrei 24 Tishrei Chapters 88-89 90-96 97-103 104-105 106-107 108-112 113-118 ‫פרקים‬ ‫פט‬-‫פח‬ ‫צו‬-‫צ‬ ‫קג‬-‫צז‬ ‫קה‬-‫קד‬ ‫קז‬-‫קו‬ ‫קיב‬-‫קח‬ ‫קיח‬-‫קיג‬ ‫תאריך‬ ‫יח תשרי‬ ‫יט תשרי‬ ‫כ תשרי‬ ‫כא תשרי‬ ‫כב תשרי‬ ‫כג תשרי‬ ‫כד תשרי‬ ‫יום‬ ‫אחד‬ ‫שני‬ ‫שלישי‬ ‫רביעי‬ ‫חמישי‬ ‫הששי‬ ‫שבת קודש‬ “(With regard to) the recital of Tehillim (daily, after davening) - there is no distinction (i.e. it applies equally) between Shuls of ‘Anash’ (a reference to the Chabad Chassidic Fellowship) and to those who follow the Ashkenazic or Polish nusach - may G-d be with them. On account of Ahavat Yisrael, love of our fellow...and especially in view of the importance and inner purpose of saying Tehillim with a minyan, which literally affects all of Israel, materially in “children, life and sustenance,” and spiritually ...we must endeavor with every means possible that it become an established practice in every shul of every nusach.” - From a letter of the Previous Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok - Tehillim Corresponding to One's Age It is well known the custom which the Alter Rebbe received)...from his master, who in turn received it(" from his master the Baal Shem Tov, to recite the chapter of Tehillim corresponding to one's age, after the "...morning prayer (Shachris), prior to reciting the customary daily Tehillim - From 'Kovetz Michtavim' - a selection of letters by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson, regarding Saying Tehillim ----------------------- 98 ------------------------ October 16 - 22, 2011 | 152 ‫לימוד‬ Study Weekly HaYom-Yom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154 Parsha Insights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159 Geulah Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165 Chassidus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168 Rebbe Responsa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174 Teffilah . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177 Moadim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shemini Atzeres & Simchas Torah 180 Chassidic Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183 Study: HaYom-Yom  ‫היום יום‬ HaYom-Yom An anthology of aphorisms and customs, arranged according to the days of the year Compiled and arranged by The Lubavitcher Rebbe from the talks and letters of The Previous Rebbe - in 5703, (1942) Dedicated by Duddy & Chani Farkash & Family To Strengthen Our Hiskashrus To The Rebbe ‫נשיא דורינו‬ Translated by Rabbi Yitzchok Meir Kagan of Michigan Copyright by Kehot Publication Society; www.Kehot.com Many thanks to Rabbi Velvel Karp of Oholei Torah for the nikkud Sunday, 18 Tishrei, 5772 – October 16, 2011 ‫ ב דחוהמ"ס ה' תש"ד‬,‫יום ראשון יח תשרי‬ .‫ עמלה בה‬-‫קלו‬-...‫ וההפרש‬:‫ תניא‬.‫פט‬-‫ פח‬:‫ תהלים‬.‫ פרשה ראשונה עם פירש"י‬,‫ ברכה‬:‫ חומש‬.‫שיעורים‬ ‫יבת‬ ַ ‫ או ְֹמ ִרים ֵּת‬.)‫יפים ֶא ָּלא פ”א ַּ(פ ַעם ַא ַחת‬ ִ ‫ ַא ָבל ֵאין ַמ ִּק‬,‫יע‬ ַ ‫ֹש‬ ִׁ ‫או ְֹמ ִרים אוֹם אֲנִי חו ָֹמה ְוגַם ָאדוֹן ַה ּמו‬ ‫ ְּב ַה ְּׁש ָאר‬,‫ׁשאו ְֹמרָם הש”ץ ַ(ה ָּׁש ִל ַיח ִצ ּיבוּר) ְּבקוֹל רָם‬ ֶ ‫ ְּבאו ָֹתם ָהאו ִֹת ּיוֹת‬- ‫ֹאש ו ְֵהן ְּבסוֹף‬ ׁ ‫ ֵהן ְּבר‬,”‫ֹש ֲענָא‬ ׁ ַ ‫“הו‬ .‫או ְֹמ ִרים רַק ַּפ ַעם ַא ַחת‬ .”‫נְהגֵינ ּו ְל ַה ְת ִחיל ְּבקוֹל רָם ֵמאוֹת “ס” אוֹ “ע‬ ָ ‫ִמ‬ .”‫“ת‬ ּ ‫ימים ְּבאוֹת‬ ִ ‫ּמ ְׁש ִל‬ ַ ‫ׁש ֵלם ו‬ ָ ‫יקף‬ ֵּ ‫ׂוֹת ֶה‬ ‫ְיקים ַל ֲעש‬ ִ ‫ְמ ַד ּי‬ (Instructions for Hosha’anos:) Say both “Om ani choma[176]” and “Adon hamoshia”, but make only one circuit. Say the word “Hosha’ana” before and after those alphabetical phrases which the chazan says aloud;[177] for the other phrases say hosha’ana only once.[178] Our custom is to start saying aloud with the letter samach or ayin. One should be certain to make a complete circuit, ending with tav. 176 This paragraph is really for yesterday. Since on Shabbos we do not carry the Lulav or recite Hosha’anos, we make it up today. 177 Responsively; i.e. the phrases beginning with the letter samach etc. - see next sentence in text 178 Before the phrase  October 16 - 22, 2011 | 154 Study: Parsha Insights ‫פרשה‬ Parsha Insights 98 ‫לזכות‬ '‫רבקה בת שרה בתי‬ ‫לרפואה שלימה וקרובה תיכף ומיד ממש‬ In Honor of Rivka Bas Sara Basya May G-d grant her a complete and speedy recovery Now Mamosh Excerpts from “The Divine Prism” • a newly published volume of Parsha Insights based on the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s teachings • Translated from the Hebrew “Bi’urei HaChumash” by Rabbi Eli Touger And Rabbi Sholom B. Wineberg • Published by Heichal Menachem • Available at www.Kehot.com A PARTING BLESSING ֹ‫ָאל ִל ְפנֵי מוֹתו‬ ֵ ‫ׂר‬ ‫יש ָה ֱאל ִֹהים ֶאת ְּבנֵי ִי ְש‬ ׁ ‫משה ִא‬ ׁ ֶ ‫ַך‬ ְ ‫ֲשר ֵּבר‬ ׁ ֶ ‫ָכה א‬ ָ ‫ְוזֹאת ַה ְּבר‬ “This is the blessing with which Moses the man of G-d blessed the Children of Israel before his death.” Deuteronomy 33:1 Certainly, Moses had blessed the Jewish people numerous times throughout his life. For example, at the beginning of the Book of Deuteronomy, he told them:[176] “May G-d the Lord of your fathers add to you….” Those blessings, however, were blessings of immediate relevance and were intended to take effect immediately. The blessings related in this Torah reading that were given to the tribes and to the Jewish people as a whole were only to take effect at a later time. Therefore, it was not until the time immediately before his death that Moses conveyed these blessings to the Jewish people. (Sichos Shabbos Chol HaMoed Sukkos, 5726) 176. Deuteronomy 1:11.  159 | Chayenu: Bereishis, 5772 Study: Geulah ‫גאולה‬ Geulah Study ‫לעילוי נשמות‬ ,‫ הרב דוב יהודה בן מאיר שמריהו‬,‫הרב שלמה נחמי' בן ישראל יצחק‬ ‫ הרב אברהם יעקב בן חיים מרדכי‬,‫הרב משה יוסף בן סיני‬ ‫זכותם יגן עלינו‬ ‫ויבדל לחיים טובים לזכות‬ ,‫הרב יעקב עמנואל בן שרה שאשא‬ ‫נאכע בת בלימה‬ ‫לרפואה שלימה‬ Excerpts from “From Exile to Redemption” Chassidic Teachings on the Future Redemption and the Coming of Mashiach Compiled by Rabbi Alter Eliyahu Friedman • Translated by Uri Kaploun Published and copyright by Sichos In English OVERVIEW In this section, we bring you themes relating to the Geulah (redemption) & Moshiach, based on the weekly Parsha, culled from the teachings of our sages, both classic com‑ mentary as well as from the Chasidic masters. The importance of learning the subjects of Moshiach and Geulah is something that has risen to importance precisely in our generation, which the Rebbe has referred to count‑ less times as the “final generation of exile and the first generation of Geulah.” In explaining the central role of learning these subjects, the Rebbe announced that “we are standing at the end and completion of our deeds and our avodah, and at the be‑ ginning of the period of the collecting the reward, and as befits this there must be the avodah as well in matters that are relevant to the days of Moshiach, beginning with the study of the Torah in the subjects of Moshiach and Geulah.” (Parshas Ki Seitzei, 5751) Not only is it fitting to learn these subjects, but the Rebbe explains that learning about Moshiach and Geulah is the direct path to bringing Moshiach in actuality. “In order to bring about the revelation and coming of Moshiach immediately – it is incumbent upon every single Jew to increase in the learning of the Torah (especially) in the subjects of Moshiach and Geulah.” (Parshas Tazria-Metzora, 5751)  165 | Chayenu: Bereishis, 5772 Study: Geulah  “And The Spirit Of Elokim Hovers Upon The Waters” The Midrash says that the “Spirit of Elokim” is an allusion to Moshiach. That, at the very outset of creation, there was already a (purpose of) Moshiach in place. An explanation of this is that we find that Moshiach is also referred to as having ‘spirit’, in the prophetic verse of Isaiah “The spirit of G-d will rest upon him”. Moshiach is a reincarnation of Adam, regarding whom it says “and G-d blew into his nostrils a living soul”, which Targum renders as “a spirit (with the ability of speech)”. So, we find a parallel between Adam and Moshiach both being referred to as possessing this G-dly spirit. However, with regard to Moshiach, the prophet uses the expression “spirit of YHVH” (G-d’s expression of infinitude and revelation, associate with Chesed), whereas with the verse in our Parsha at the beginning of creation the spirit (which hovers above the waters) is called “The spirit of Elokim” (the name associated with judgment, restraint and concealment). How does this match up then? The secret is, that when the Geulah comes, the Gevurah (attribute of severity and restraint) will be sweetened and transformed to Chesed (kindness, revelation) and even surpass it. Hence, the spirit of Elokim mentioned here is the spirit of YHVH mentioned in Isaiah regarding Moshiach. Igra d’Kallah, on Midrash Rabbah, Bereishis  October 16 - 22, 2011 | 166 Study: Chassidus  ‫חסידות‬ Chassidus ‫חלק ממאמר מספר לקוטי תורה‬ ‫לכ"ק אדמו"ר הזקן‬ A synopsis of a Chasidic Discourse From Likkutei Torah of The Alter Rebbe ‫לזכות‬ '‫שתחי‬ ‫רעכיל בת חנה רויזע‬ ‫לרפואה שלימה ולאריכות ימים ושנים טובות מתוך נחת והרחבה‬ Hebrew text reprinted with permission of Kehot Publication Society English adaptation is reprinted with permission from www.likuteitorah.com From a forthcoming volume in the series “Words of The Living G-d” • Published by Purity Press The verse, "It is not good for the man to be by himself; I will make him a helper as his counterpart" is mystically interpreted as a reference to the Divine names "Havaye" and "Elokim" and their respective roles in G-d's creation of the universe. This also has a practical lesson to teach man in his worship of G-d, as alluded to in the verse, "And Havaye Elokim made for Adam and for his wife garments of hide, and clothed them." THIS WEEK, having just celebrated (on the holiday of Simchas Torah) completion of the yearly cycle of Torah readings and the beginning of a new cycle, we read in the Torah the very first portion in Genesis, the portion called Bereishis, which tells of the creation of the universe and of the life of the first man, Adam, and his descendants. As with all of Scripture, each item in the Torah bears an infinite number of complimentary interpretations on various levels of depth; from the verse that tells of G-d’s decision to create Chava, the first woman, we may derive some insight into man’s role in this physical world. .‫לא טוב היות האדם לבדו אעשה לו עזר כנגדו‬ Regarding the creation of Chava (Eve) we read (Genesis 2:18) man being by himself is not good; I [G-d] shall make for him a helper as his counterpart. The reason for this is that it would have been for some reason unsatisfactory to G-d if man alone were put  October 16 - 22, 2011 | 168 Study: Rebbe Responsa  ‫קודש‬-‫אגרות‬ Rebbe Responsa 98 Dedicated anonymously in honor of the great work of Rabbi Yanky Majesky of Chabad in North Orlando Special thanks to chabad.org for granting us permission to include the following letters. For more, please visit www.theRebbe.org. In the summer of 1975, an encounter took place between Rabbi F.R., a Lubavitcher chas‑ sid, and Mr. A.P., a “modernized” American Jew. Rabbi R. was seeking to influence Mr. P. toward a greater commitment to Torah observance, which the latter dismissed as “archaic” and dismally outdated. In the course of the conversation, Mr. P. said, “Are you telling me that every law and practice mentioned in the Torah, written thousands of years ago, must be accepted at face value today?” “Certainly,” replied Rabbi R. “The Torah is eternal, and is equally pertinent to every day and age.” “The Torah states that the sun revolves around the earth,” countered Mr. P. “Do you believe that as well?” “Yes, I do,” replied Rabbi R. “Well, you might believe that,” said Mr. P., “but no rational, selfrespecting inhabitant of the 20th century does. I’m sure your rebbe, Rabbi Schneerson, doesn’t!” “I’m sure he does,” said the rabbi. “I’m willing to wager anything that he does not,” said Mr. P. “In fact, I’ll say this: If the Rebbe states that he believes that the sun revolves around the earth, I will become a Torah-observant Jew and convince everyone I know to do the same!” “Would you put that in writing?” challenged Rabbi R. “No problem,” said Mr. P. Soon after, Rabbi R. received the following letter: Dear Rabbi R____ As per our conversation of today... I did say to you, and am submitting the same in writing by means of this letter, that if the Rebbe would make a public statement to the effect that... since the Talmud states that the sun revolves around the earth, it is therefore his firm belief that the sun does indeed revolve around the earth, that I will: (a) personally observe the laws of taharat-hamishpachah, tefillin and Shabbat; and  October 16 - 22, 2011 | 174 Study: Tefillah ‫תפילה‬ Prayer Tefilah (prayer, or daven in Yiddish) is an integral part of a Jew’s life in service of Hashem. The Talmud terms it “service of the heart”. Chassidus puts much emphasis on one’s spiritual preparation for prayer, and the proper intention while praying. The following selections from Chasidus, will hopefully inspire you toward more meaningful and conscious prayer. May all our prayers be answered! Dedicated for a speedy Refuah Shleimah for ‫נועה בתי' בת דניאלה רות‬ By her loved ones 98 This new section previews “The Online Siddur – with Commentary” - a joint project of Chabad of Maryland & Sichos in English. It is viewable on www.chabad.org/siddur – and reprinted with permission. Translated by Rabbi Eli Touger and Rabbi Sholom B. Wineberg ‫יהי כבוד ה’ לעולם‬ May the glory of G-d endure forever This phrase can also be interpreted: “May the glory of G-d be extended into the world.”[176] When the Torah describes the manifestation of G-d’s presence in the Sanctuary, it states:[177] “And the glory of G-d filled the Sanctuary.” Similarly, this verse is a request, asking that His glory permeate the world entirely so that the world itself will reveal how it is G-d’s dwelling. At present, G-dliness is revealed through a process of contraction and concealment. The request of this verse is that His glory be revealed as is, without any such veils. ‫יהי כבוד ד’ לעולם שיהי’ השם נק’ כמו שנכתב ומעין זה במקדש לפי שנאמר וכבוד ד’ מלא את‬ ‫המשכן הי’ נקרא השם כמו שנכתב‬ (Or HaTorah, Shlach, page 514) 176. For the word olam can mean both “world” and “forever” (Or HaTorah, BaMidbar, p. 136). 177. Shmos 40:34.  177 | Chayenu: Bereishis, 5772 Study: Moadim  ‫מועדים‬ Moadim ‫ שמחת תורה‬- ‫שמיני עצרת‬ Shemini Atzeres and Simchas Torah One Bullock, One Ram 98 Excerpted from “Days of Destiny“ The Jewish Year under a Chassidic Microscope by Yosef HaLevi Loebenstein • Published and copyright © by Sichos In English The unity between Jews engendered by Shemini Atzeres and Simchas Torah is superior even to that of Sukkos. It is symbolized by the dancing with the Torah when all Jews rejoice as one with G-d. Of Shemini Atzeres, the festival immediately following Sukkos, the Torah states: “The eighth day shall be a day of retreat for you; you shall do no work of labor. And you shall bring a burnt offering, a sacrifice to be consumed by fire, of pleasing odor to the L-rd; one bullock, one ram....”[1] While an independent festival,[2] Shemini Atzeres is simultaneously connected with Sukkos, as indicated by the above quoted verse, “The eighth day shall be a day of retreat for you” - the “eighth” referring to the previous seven days of Sukkos. During the festival of Sukkos, Jews offered seventy bullocks on behalf of the seventy nations of the world. On Shemini Atzeres only one bullock and one ram were offered, solely on the behalf of the Jewish people.  Tarry One More Day The Midrash offers a parable to illustrate the nature of Shemini Atzeres and the difference between it and Sukkos: “This may be compared to a king who made a banquet for seven days and invited all the people of the country.... When the seven days of feasting were over he said to his beloved friend: ‘Now that we have already done our duty to all the people of the country, let us make shift, just you and I, with whatever you can find....’”[3] Our Sages draw a similar parable to children who are departing from their father, who says to them, “Your separation is difficult for me; tarry one more day.”[4] Both parables make the same point: The king is G-d, ruler of all the inhabitants of the earth. The people of the country are the seventy nations of the world, and the king’s beloved friend is Jewry. The banquet arranged for all the peoples corresponds to the seventy sacrifices offered on Sukkos on behalf of the seventy nations of the world. When Sukkos has ended, G-d tells the Jews that “Your separation is difficult for Me; tarry one October 16 - 22, 2011 | 180 Study: Chassidic Story ‫סיפור חסידי‬ Chassidic Story Fathers of Chassidus 98 In honour of my 19th birthday - Elul 15 - and my graduating this year from Herzlia School, Capetown I would like to share with all of you my love for learning Chayenu, as it inspires me so much, and has helped me. I would like to encourage people to strengthen their bond with the Rebbe, to learn Torah and perform Mitzvot - b'Simcha! - Ariella (Ashleigh) Gawronsky - Camps Bay, Capetown Excerpted from “Branches Of The Chassidic Menorah “ • Biographical Stories Based On The Essay Fathers Of Chassidus • By The Previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn First published in the classical columns of HaTamim – a quarterly Chassidic Torah journal published during the 1920´s. Translated by Shimon Neubort • Published and copyright © by Sichos In English The Alter Rebbe’s Public Service The Alter Rebbe was both a leader and an organizer. In all of his holy endeavors - both as rabbi and as a public official - everything he undertook emerged from his hands in perfect order. Each detail was in its proper place, with the necessary explanations to satisfy all of our Jewish brethren, and all factions to whom Torah and mitzvos were dear. The party to which one belonged made no difference, so long as its aim was the strengthening of the Jewish religion and dissemination of the Torah. The holy Nesi’im of Chabad had their own special system for public service. This system originated with our first forefather, the Alter Rebbe, and it was based on a marvelous method. These are his holy words: “Israel is the one nation on earth.” This means that the Jewish nation - even within the physical world - is bound up with the One G-d. He makes physical matter out of spiritual substance, and the Jewish nation makes spiritual matter out of physical substance. For this reason, the economic status of the Jewish people goes hand-in-hand with their spiritual status. The holy Alter Rebbe was a product of the rural countryside. While still a young lad, he conceived the idea of Jews working the land. This apparently stemmed from his fa 183 | Chayenu: Bereishis, 5772 WEEKLY SPONSORS • $1800 = 1 Parsha / Week of week of ‫פרשת מקץ‬ In Loving Memory of My Father Julius Lowenstein May the merit of learning Torah around the world bring blessings to his soul and the entire family Dedicated by his Daughter week of ‫פרשת ויגש‬ ‫לעילוי נשמת‬ ‫רוזה רוזין בת זוהרה‬ ‫תהא נשמתה צרורה בצרור החיים‬ ‫נדבת בנה‬ ‫חיים ומשפחתו שיחיו‬-‫שמעון בן‬ ‫ויתברכו לאורך ימים ושנים טובות‬ week of ‫פרשת ויחי‬ Dedicated in honor of the Bar-Mitzvah of our grandson Levi Yitzchak May he be a true Chayal of the Rebbe - a Chosid, Yerah Shamayim and Lamdan a source of Yiddishe and Chassishe nachas to his parents Aryeh and Chana Pels week of ‫פרשת שמות‬ In Loving Memory of Gershon Ben Shlomo HaLevi week of ‫פרשת וארא‬ In Memory of Shlomo ben Gershon Halevi on occasion of his Yahetzeit, 19 Tevet 5752 Dedicated by his loving wife, children and grandchildren week of ‫פרשת חיי שרה‬ ‫חיינו‬ CHAYENU week of ‫פרשת בראשית‬ In Loving Memory of Dedicated to our Family ‫נחמה בתי' בת ר' אברהם יצחק‬ By Anonymous who passed away Erev Shabbos Kodesh after chatzos, 16 Teves 5771. May the merit of the Torah learning of this publication stand in her good stead and may her husband Aron Mordechai, her sons Naftali Hertz, Refoel Dovid Moshe and the entire mishpacha be blessed with long and healthy years. With blessings for the immediate coming of MOSHIACH now. The Bastomski-Sandlow Families week of ‫פרשת תולדות‬ In honour of ‫חנה שיינא‬ ‫אריאלה אביגיל‬ ‫טובה ברכה‬ Swartz May you continue to grow in Torah learning and Yiddishkeit week of ‫פרשת ויצא‬ ‫לזכות‬ ‫חיים‬-‫שמעון ושרה בן‬ ‫שיתברכו מן השמים‬ ‫בכל טוב גשמיות ורוחניות גם יחד‬ ‫ונחת אמיתי מיוצאי חלציהם‬ week of ‫פרשת וישלח‬ week of ‫פרשת וישב‬ week of ‫פרשת נח‬ Dedicated In Merit of Yehuda Leib ben Sima Chaya For a Complete & Speedy Recovery By his Family week of ‫פרשת לך לך‬ week of ‫פרשת וירא‬ This issue of Chayenu is dedicated in loving memory of Temah Leah Bas Avrohom Halevi who passed away on Shabbos Sukkos 17 Tishrei 25 / 5771 September 2010 For wishes of a long and healthy life to Aryeh Yehudah Leib Ben Reb Meir Halevi and to Sharon Bas Reb Meir Halevi May the merit of all the learning internationally of this publication stand in good stead for Temah Leah Bas Avrohom in her resting place ‫חיינו‬ 0 = 1 Parsha / Week of CHAYENU Chayenu week of ‫פרשת אמור‬ week of ‫פרשת בהר‬ ‫לעילוי נשמת אבי מורי‬ ‫הרב אליהו זוהר בן פריחה ושלמה‬ week of ‫פרשת בחוקותי‬ week of week of ‫פרשת פקודי‬ ‫פרשת ויקרא‬ week of ‫פרשת צו‬ ‫לעילוי נשמת אמי מורתי‬ ‫עליזה אליס עישא‬ ‫בת מסעודה ואליהו‬ week of ‫פרשת שמיני‬ week of ‫פרשת במדבר‬ week of ‫פרשת תזריע‬ ‫פרשת נשא‬ week of ‫פרשת מצורע‬ week of Dedicated in honor of the birthday of ‫הלל מתתיהו עמיחי בן אברהם‬ In recognition of your Mesirus Nefesh for spreading The Wellsprings & Yiddishkeit. May your new year be most blessed! By The Chayenu Family week of ‫פרשת בהעלותך‬ In honor of my dear wife Debbie Rabenou on the occasion of our wedding anniversary - 8 Sivan by her husband week of ‫פרשת שלח‬ In Loving Memory of Shaila Bat Sali week of ‫פרשת בא‬ In Honor of all those who are learning Hebrew later on in life By Anonymous week of ‫פרשת בשלח‬ week of week of ‫פרשת יתרו‬ ‫פרשת משפטים‬ Dedicated in righteous memory of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson -wife of the Lubavitcher Rebbe- week of ‫פרשת אחרי מות‬ week of week of ‫פרשת תרומה‬ week of ‫פרשת תצוה‬ ‫פסח‬ May Hashem continue to bless our family with good health and abundant blessings Sarah Luba bas Rachel, Shalom Chona ben Chaim, Talia bas Sarah Luba, Tamar bas Sarah Luba, Ahira Libi bas Talia, Ayelet bas Talia, Noa Hallel bas Tamar, Elan Moshe ben Eliyaho Ilan Shaul ben Pinchas. week of ‫זצוקללה"ה נבג"מ זי"ע‬ ‫פרשת קדושים‬ Thank you Chayenu for inspiring our family Carmela Bat Rivka Leah Bat Carmela Batya Bat Carmela Noach Aryeh Ben Leah Shlomo Ben Shalom Shaul Eliezer Ben Moshe Ber Baruch Ben Beryl week of ‫פרשת כי תשא‬ Dedicated in Honour of Ash ‫אסתר בת מלכה פראדל‬ on the occasion of her birthday ‫בשעה טובה ומוצלחת‬ May ‫ השי"ת‬bless her to enjoy many more happy, healthy years with her family and Yiddishe, Chassidishe Nachas ‫לאריכות ימים‬ ‫ ושנים טובות‬With love and appreciation from her husband, children and grandchildren. week of ‫פרשת ויקהל‬ WEEKLY SPONSORS • $1800 week of ‫פרשת האזינו‬ week of ‫פרשת ואתחנן‬ Dedicated in loving memory of week of Yom Kippur Dedicated by Avrohom Dovid & Mikhla Dauer in honor of a blessing for our children & grandchildren The Dauers, Lipskers, Maybergs, Kornfelds & Wuenschs And in loving memory of Moshe ben Tzvi Hirsch & Gittel bas Zev; Shmuel Meyer ben Avrum Yosef & Rochel bas Mendel week of ‫סוכות‬ Rabbi Zalman Kazen ‫הרה"ח שלמה שניאור זלמן ב"ר‬ ‫מיכאל ע"ה‬ Shliach of the Rebbe to Cleveland, Ohio for over 50 years, exemplary Chassid, and patriarch to hundreds of offspring ‫בלע"ה‬ ‫לרגל סיום השלושים – יהא זכרו ברוך‬ By his daughter Rochel Goldman week of ‫פרשת קרח‬ Dedicated in merit of Alexander ben Esther, Hadassah bas Leah Joshua Moshe ben Batya Ita, Saul Shmuel ben Batya Ita Eva, Joseph, Yacov Yisrael, Batya Ruth, Benjamin Tzvi May Hashem bless them abundantly, with good health, success & much Yiddishe Nachas week of ‫פרשת עקב‬ week of ‫פרשת חוקת‬ week of ‫פרשת ראה‬ week of ‫פרשת בלק‬ week of ‫פרשת שופטים‬ ‫מוקדש לעילוי נשמות‬ ‫גרשון בן אליעזר ולאה בת דוד‬ ‫הנדל‬ 98 ‫ברוריה בת ישעיהו‬ ‫שראלי‬ ‫ה‬.‫ב‬.‫צ‬.‫נ‬.‫ת‬ week of ‫פרשת כי תצא‬ week of week of week of ‫פרשת כי תבא‬ week of ‫פרשת נצבים‬ week of ‫פרשת פינחס‬ Dedicated by Moishe Yosef Engel and family In honor of a blessing for Chassidishe, Freiliche children and grandchildren, Levi and Chanie, Shimmy and Zelda, Moishe and Hentcha, Sender and Chami, Sruli and Rivkah, Zalman and Shterna, Mendel and Gutey ‫פרשת מטות‬ Dedicated by Anonymous, Johannesburg, South Africa week of ‫פרשת מסעי‬ week of ‫פרשת דברים‬ ‫פרשת וילך‬ ‫חיינו‬ CHAYENU Weekly Sponsors From The Holy Land Mordechai & Mechal Slodowitz ‫אלטא שולה ע”ה בת יבלחט”א יוסף יצחק והינדא סברדלוב‬ ‫בראשית‬ ‫נח‬ Aleph Institute Partnership Chayenu has partnered with The Aleph Institute – the primary organization for facilitating Jewish Inmates’ religious needs – to ensure that all inmates who desire to seriously study Torah while being incarcerated have that opportunity. Chayenu has received a generous grant from Aleph toward these annual subscriptions. We currently reach over 100 inmates across USA. To sponsor an inmate ($130 / year) please contact us. Chayenu Subscriptions Information A weekly subscription to CHAYENU costs an average of 36 cents a day! 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