Halachic Times for Jerusalem Winter (Standard) Time Correct for TT #507 Ranges are for THU-THU, 2-9 Adar 5762 (February 14-21, '02) For sunset, first time takes into account the elevation above sea level of Jerusalem, 825m (the times in parentheses do not take elevation into account). Sunrise is without elevation (because Jerusalem's eastern horizon is unbroken mountains at approx. the same elevation as Jerusalem) For the deadlines of Shma and Shacharit, the first times are according to the GR"A, the day being reckoned from sunrise to sunset. (The times in parentheses are according to the Magen Avraham, the day being reckoned from dawn to stars-out.) Candle lighting - 4:50pm (Earliest - 4:17pm) Havdala - 6:05pm (Rabbeinu Tam - 6:39pm) Earliest Shacharit 5:32-5:25am Sunrise 6:22¼-6:15½am Sof Z'man Kri'at Sh'ma 9:07-9:04am (8:22-8:19am) Sof Z'man Shacharit 10:03-10:00am (9:32-9:30am) Chatzot (halachic noon) 11:53¼-11:52¾am Mincha Gedola (earliest Mincha) 12:24-12:23pm Plag Mincha 4:15½ - 4:20pm Sunset 5:29½-5:35pm (5:24½-5:30½pm) WORD OF THE MONTH A weekly feature of Torah Tidbits to help clarify practical and conceptual aspects of the Jewish Calendar, thereby better fulfilling the mitzva of HaChodesh HaZeh Lachem... The Molad of Adar was Tuesday afternoon. 3 days later is Friday afternoon, making Friday night the earliest opportunity for Kidush L'vana. However, we do not say K.L. on Shabbat (or Yom Tov) unless it is the last opportunity. So the first and best opportunity for K.L. according to Minhag Yerushalayim (3 days after the Molad) is this coming Motza'ei Shabbat Parshat T'rumah, Feb. 16th. Those who are MAKPID to wait until seven days after the Molad will have their first chance for K.L. on Tuesday night, Feb. 19th. On another note... According to Rashi on the Gemara, the reason for the increase in joy as Adar enters is because of the miracles that occurred both in Adar and in Nissan. Purim and Pesach are the causes of the increase of joy and the hopeful anticipation of the Complete Redemption which will also occur at this time of the year. And in the Meanwhile? This week's sedra contains the command to built a Mikdash to G-d, a focus of our spiritual energy. Our sources tell us that this is not a mitzva for individual Jews, but rather for the whole of Klal Yisrael. Furthermore, this mitzva applies when a majority of the Jews in the world live in Eretz Yisrael. That is something that demographers tell us is perhaps a small number of years down the road, but at the moment, we are not yet a majority. So the mitzva that was fulfilled by Moshe Rabeinu and our ancestors in the Midbar, and again by Shlomo HaMelech and his generation, and again by those who returned from Babylonian exile to rebuild the second Beit HaMikdash. If we are lacking certain conditions and proper leadership and guidelines to undertake the holy task of V'ASU LI MIKDASH at this time, what should we be doing in the meantime? The short answer is, What ever we can do now to properly prepare for the third Beit HaMikdash and the coming of Mashiach, and whatever will bring closer its building and his coming. This includes a lot of different things that we can and should be doing right now... First of all, we can and should feel sad without the Beit HaMikdash. When you see a square AMA of unplastered, unpainted wall opposite someone's door, do you feel a sense of loss, akin to seeing a photo of a loved one who has passed away? We should. Do you feel a burst of hopeful longing when you say V'LIRUSHALAYIM IRCHA or ET TZEMACH DAVID or V'TECHEZENA EINEINU? We should. Do you learn about the Beit HaMikdash, its furnishings and vessels, and the service in it? We should. Do you seek out the museums and institutes that are already making whatever KELIM we are allowed to and know how to, in preparation for the next Beit HaMikdash? And do you get excited about it? We should. Do you learn, teach, and encourage Torah and the practice of mitzvot to less knowledgeable fellow Jews? We should. Aside from the mitzvot involved, it can also hasten the Mashiach by doing part of one of his tasks. Do you live in Israel and encourage others to do the same? Do you help ease the absorption of new Olim? We should. Aside from the mitzvot involved, this too can hasten the Mashiach, becasue this too (according to Rambam) is one of his tasks. Do you believe with a full heart in the restoration of the Jewish People to Torah and to the Land of Israel, in the coming of the Mashiach and the rebuilding of the Beit Mikdash? These are some of the things to do meanwhile. Sedra-Stats 19th of 54 sedras; 7th of 11 in Sh'mot Written on 154.8 lines in a Sefer Torah, ranks 43rd 9 Parshiot; 4 open, 5 closed 96 p'sukim - ranks 38th (9th) 1145 words - ranks 45th (10th) 4692 letters - ranks 41st (9th) T'ruma is a short sedra with very short p'sukim (especially in words per pasuk) MITZVOT Contains 3 mitzvot; 1 positive and 2 prohibitions. Aliya-by-Aliya Sedra Summary [Numbers] are the mitzva-count of the Sefer HaChinuch. Kohen - First Aliya - 16 p'sukim - 25:1-16 G-d tells Moshe to tell the People to donate materials in amounts that "each person sees fit". The donations were to be of gold, silver, copper; dyed wools (blue, purple, red), fine linen; goats-hair fabric, red-dyed sheepskin, Tachash skins; acacia wood; oil for light, spices for the anointing oil and the incense offerings; gemstones for the Eifod and the Choshen. "And they shall make for Me a Sanctuary, and I will dwell in their midst" [95]. This well-known pasuk constitutes the mitzva to build the Mishkan in that generation, and the Beit HaMikdash in later times. Each time the Mishkan was taken apart, transported, and reassembled, the mitzva was fulfilled. It was fulfilled by Shlomo HaMelech and his generation, and by Ezra HaSofer and his generation. It will be fulfilled IY"H when the third Beit HaMikdash will be built, IY"H in our own time. [SDT] Some commentaries interpret the word B'TOCHAM as within each person of B'nei Yisrael, not just in the midst of the People, thereby personalizing the relationship between G-d and each person. MITZVA WATCH Rambam gives 14 rules for the counting of the 613 mitzvot. Rule #12 is that it is not "appropriate" to count as separate mitzvot those commands that are part of a more all-encompassing mitzva. Therefore, Rambam does NOT count among the 613 the mitzvot to make the Aron, Menora, Shulchan, Altars, etc. since they are included in Building the Sanctuary. In other words, ALL of the details of the building of the Mikdash are included in one single Mitzvat Asei. Other mitzva-counters disagree. E.g. Ramban counts the making of the Aron as a separate mitzva (but not the other sacred vessels). G-d will show the various forms that the work should take as models for the people to follow in M'lechet HaMishkan, the sacred task of building the Mikdash. The first specific command is that of making the Aron (Holy Ark). It is to be made of wood, plated with gold inside and out. Four gold rings are to be fixed to its sides to receive the Carrying Poles (themselves made of gold-plated wood). The Carrying Poles, once inserted into the rings, may never be removed [96]. MITZVA WATCH Note that although all the positive commands related to the details of each of the vessels are included within the "super-mitzva" of building the Mikdash (and everything in it), this prohibition is counted separately. In other words, the commands to make the Aron, to plate it with gold, to attach rings, to make poles, to put a decorative border around the top of the Aron, to make the lid, etc. etc. are all part of the mitzva to make the Sanctuary. The prohibition of removing the carrying poles is its own mitzva. The "Testimony" (the LUCHOT - Tablets) shall be placed in the Aron. Clarification: Some commentaries describe the ARON as three nested, open-top boxes - an outer box of gold, a middle box of wood, and an inner box of gold which had a rim to cover over the thickness of the wooden box, so that only gold would be visible both from the outside and inside of the ARON. There are different opinions as to how thick the gold plating was. Levi - Second Aliya - 24 p'sukim - 25:17-40 A thick, solid gold lid (called the KAPORET) is to be made for the Aron. From the lid are to be formed two Cherubs facing each other with their wings spread out above the lid. Communication from G-d will be from "between the two K'ruvim" Think about this... It seems a bit strange, does it not, that we would be commanded to make the K'ruvim in light of the strong prohibitions against graven images. And more so, if we note the chronology of the events in the months following the Exodus - specifically, that the command to build the Mikdash followed in the wake of the Golden Calf fiasco. The "answer" is that G-d is the Boss. He says no graven images - then we don't. And the Golden Calf is the ultimate affront to G-d. He commands us to make the K'ruvim, then we do. There are many examples of this idea. Lighting fire is forbidden on Shabbat. In the Mikdash it is required. Piku'ach Nefesh situations require it. This is not contradictory. This is recognizing G-d's mastery of the world and our commitment to follow His commands. A special table of gold-plated wood shall be made; a frame and decorative border to the frame are to be made of gold. Four gold rings are to be attached to the legs of the table as receptacles for the carrying rods. Shelves and supports for the shelves complete the Shulchan. The Lechem Panim (Showbread) are to be placed on the Shulchan at all times [97]. MITZVA WATCH This is not considered just a detail of the making of the Shulchan, but as its own mitzva. The mitzva involved baking 12 special loaves (halachically, they were matza) on Friday to replace the previous week's loaves on Shabbat. Tradition records a weekly miracle that the one-week-old Lechem HaPanim was found to be fresh by the kohanim on duty who shared in eating it. This mitzva makes the statement that we should not view food as just the physical necessity that the rest of the world sees it as, but rather we are challenged to add a spiritual dimension to even the most mundane of our human activities. The Lechem HaPanim are the model; our laws of kashrut, brachot, and more help us achieve the spiritual levels of this concept. In the Shabbat Zmira KI ESHM'RA SHABBAT, we sing that G-d gave a Torah-mitzva to the Kohanim to put the Lechem HaPanim on the Shulchan on Shabbat. Therefore, we are forbidden to fast on Shabbat (except for Yom Kippur). In other words, G-d did not include a food in the Temple service just to feed the Kohanim. G-d is showing us, so to speak, the potential spirituality of food. Take this lesson, He says, from the Mikdash into your homes. Food is not incidental to Shabbat; it is a significant part of our observance of Shabbat. (some Chumashim put Shlishi here) The Menora is to be made of solid gold, one continuous piece, a central branch with six side branches (3 on a side), decorative orbs, flowers, and cups adorned the ends of each branch, with additional ones on the central branch. The Menora's utensils were also made of gold. Additionally, there was a 3-step platform that was used by the Kohen when he tended and lit the Menora. In fact, the Kohen would be able to reach the oil lamps even without the platform, but climbing onto the platform allowed the Kohen Gadol NOT to raise his hands above the level of his forehead, because of the TZITZ which he wore. (It was considered disrespectful for the K.G. to raise his hands above the TZITZ.) The steps also made tending the Menora more comfortable. [SDT] All parts of the Menorah were integral to the whole; none was "merely" attached. Torat Moshe applies this to the People of Israel and, from a play on words, says that even Jews who have strayed from Torah and mitzvot are part of the whole. Shlishi - Third Aliya - 14 p'sukim - 26:1-14 The MISHKAN (the term is used for the whole structure as well as the first fabric covering) was a roofless structure covered by three layers of coverings. The first was called the Mishkan and was made of 10 panels of woven fabric made from 3 different colors of dyed wool, plus white linen. Five panels were attached to form one section; similarly for the other five panels. The two sections thus formed were linked with buttons of gold through loops of blue wool, the buttons being attached to the edge of one section and the loops woven onto the edge of the other section. The weave of the Mishkan included images known as K'ruvim. [This graphic of the Mishkan (Davka) is based on the opinion that the MICHSEH was on the top of the Mishkan only and did not drape over the sides as did the Ohel (visible in the picture) and Mishkan (not seen).] Above the Mishkan was an 11-panel covering (sections of six and five panels joined with copper buttons) made of goats' hair. The Mishkan was decorative; this covering, known as the OHEL, was utilitarian, affording protection from the elements. The OHEL and MISHKAN covered the sides of the Mishkan as well as the top. The topmost covering (some say it was just on the top, not the sides; others say it too draped down the walls of the Mishkan) was made of red-dyed sheepskin and the skin of the Tachash. (The identity of the Tachash is in dispute; some say that it was an animal that existed at that time only, specifically for the purpose of making the MICHSEH, the top-covering of the Mishkan.) FOR YOUR INFORMATION... The Mishkan, as described in the Torah, functioned for the 40 years of the Wilderness (actually 39 years), and the first 14 years in Eretz Yisrael (in GILGAL), the years of conquest and settlement. After that, a stone structure - with the same dimensions - was made in SHILO to replace the gold-covered wooden wall sections. The three coverings were the same, as were the furnishings inside the Mishkan. The Mishkan stood in SHILO for 369 years. After ELI HAKOHEN died, the Mishkan was set up in NOV (13 years) and then (after Shmuel's death) in GIV'ON (44 years). That's a total of 480 years, from Y'TZI'AT MITZRAYIM until the first Beit HaMikdash. R'vi'i - Fourth Aliya - 16 p'sukim - 26:15-30 The walls of the Mishkan were gold-plated wooden boards. Each board had two pegs to be inserted into silver foundation sockets. Boards were joined by square gold rings through slits at the top of the boards; connecting rods through rings mounted on the sides, above and below their mid-lines; and a central bolt through the center of the boards, internally. There were to be 20 boards each for the north and south walls, eight on the west. The east was open, covered by a special curtain. [SDT] Rashi brings a Midrash that Yaakov Avinu foresaw with Divine Vision that wood would be needed by his descendants upon their departure from Egypt. He brought saplings with him to Egypt which he planted and ordered his children to take the wood with them when they left Egypt. Chamishi - Fifth Aliya - 7 p'sukim - 26:31-37 A woven curtain (like the first covering of the Mishkan) was to be hung from four gold-plated wooden pillars to separate between the Holy of Holies and the main hall of the Sanctuary. This curtain is called the PAROCHET, and gives its name to the curtain which we place on the Aron Kodesh in shul. Their functions are not the same; names are. [SDT] MA'ASEI CHOSHEIV, explains Rashi, is highly skilled weaving (could it be embroidery of a sort?) which results in different designs on each of the two sides of the fabric. The Aron is to be put into the Holy of Holies. The Shulchan on the north wall opposite the Menora on the south wall are placed outside the Parochet in the main section of the Mishkan. (The custom is to place the Chanukiya on the south wall of the shul, to remind us of the Menora of the Mikdash.) A curtain similar to the Parochet was to be hung across the entrance of the Mishkan. This MASACH is to be hung on five wooden pillars plated with gold, fitted with golden hooks, and inserted into gold foundation sockets. Some commentaries say that each curtain hung from hooks on the supporting pillars. Others say that a rod was inserted at the top of each curtain and the rod was suspended from the hooks on the pillars. This would allow the Parochet and Masach to hang evenly without sagging. Shishi - Sixth Aliya - 8 p'sukim - 27:1-8 The Mizbei'ach (Altar) is to be made of wood, plated with copper. It is a square with raised corners. All vessels and utensils for this Altar were to be made of copper, as are the rings for the carrying rods. This Altar was outside the Mishkan, in the courtyard of the Mikdash and was used for most of the sacrifices. (Unlike the internal, golden, incense Altar - not even mentioned in this sedra). The Torah says that this Altar was 3 amot tall. R. Yehuda says: understand it as it is written. R. Yosi says just as the internal Altar is twice as tall as it is wide and long, so too is this one. It measures 5 amot on each side of the square, therefore, it is 10 amot tall. But the Torah says three? That is from its SOVEV. The Aron, Shulchan, Menora are 1,2,3 in Parshat T'ruma. Then the structure of the Mishkan, then the External Altar. Internal Altar doesn't come until T'tzaveh - after the garments of the Kohanim. The Washing Basin and its Stand don't show up until the beginning of Ki Tisa. When the actual construction is described in Vayak-hel and P'kudei, the order is different. Sh'vi'i - Seventh Aliya - 11 p'sukim - 27:9-19 Linen curtains were to be made, as were wooden columns, decorated (not completely covered) with silver. The courtyard curtains were to be hung from silver hooks on these columns. Each column was supported by a copper foundation socket. An entrance curtain was to be woven in the style of the Mishkan, the Parochet, and the Masach, to be hung across the eastern side of the courtyard. Copper spikes helped anchor the curtains that surrounded the Mishkan. We have been without a Beit HaMikdash for so long that many of us have developed a "who needs it?" kind of attitude about a physical Mikdash. Without analyzing the following analogy too much, here's a thought. Even if one has been davening by heart for a long time, and knows the prayers well, there is still many benefits to his getting a beautiful Siddur to use. It gives him a focus, enhances his service of G-d, is physically attractive and spiritually inspiring. Haftara - 20 p'sukim -Melachim Alef 5:26-6:13 In one type of year, the rarest, that occurs 3.3% of the time, T'RUMAH is SH'KALIM. In another rare type of year (4.3%) of the time, T'RUMAH is ZACHOR. 55.5% of the time, T'RUMAH is a HAFSAKA, a break-Shabbat in the midst of the Four Parshiyot. 36.9% of the time (in all 13-month years), T'RUMAH falls out before the 4 Parshiyot begin. This means that in 92.4% of all years (including this year, 5762), we read the regular Haftara of T'RUMAH. The Haftara describes the preparation for the building of the first Beit HaMikdash, much like the Torah presents the preparation for the building of the Mishkan. One can notice differences between the building of the Mishkan and the building of the Beit HaMikdash, especially on the point of participation of the people. The concluding pasuk of the Haftara goes so beautifully with one of the open p'sukim of the sedra. And I will dwell (says G-d) in the midst of Bnei Yisrael and I will not abandonmy people Israel. May we see the fulfillment of the mitzvot of the sedra and Haftara, speedily in our time. THE JERUSALEM INSTITUTE OF JEWISH LAW Rabbi Emanuel Quint, Dean Lesson # 124 • Obligations of Joint Owners In this chapter of Shulhan Aruch, Rabbi Yosef Karo discusses some of the rights and obligations of the owners of a two-story residential condominium. We shall designate the owners as Reuven and Shimon. They may have bought the two-floor residential building simultaneously or on different occasions, Reuven buying the lower story and Shimon purchasing the upper story. In some countries the building is known as a two story (floor) building, the terms floor and story being interchangeable. Or perhaps, they may be brothers who together inherited the two-story building and then divided their inheritance, Reuven taking the lower story and Shimon taking the upper story, or in some other manner. The owner of the lower story is designated as Reuven, and the owner of the upper story is designated as Shimon. This is not the same as the two of them buying the two story building as partners, each owning a one-half ownership of the entire building. Such an arrangement is discussed in laws dealing with partnerships. In this lesson, each exclusively owns his own apartment. There are common areas such as halls, that belong one half to each of them. Sometimes the text will discuss the relationship of the parties as owner and tenant. In those situations Reuven is the owner of both stories and resides in the lower story. Reuven rents out the upper story to Shimon and Shimon is the tenant residing in the upper story. Unless otherwise noted all the situations concern two owners and not an owner and a tenant. The laws covered in this lesson deal mostly with partial or total destruction of the building. What are the obligations of the owners regarding each other? The owners may by agreement either made at the outset or at any time thereafter agree as to who makes which repairs. The laws of this lesson cover those situations where there is no such agreement. If any of the exterior walls of the building are damaged and require repair, that part of the damage that is below the top of the ceiling of the lower story is the responsibility of Reuven. If Reuven refuses to make such repairs, Shimon can sue him in Beth Din or use social pressure to make Reuven do so. The exterior wall from the top of the ceiling of the lower story to the top of the building is the responsibility of Shimon. If he refuses to make such repairs Reuven cannot compel him to do so, unless Reuven can demonstrate that the failure of Shimon to make such repairs will cause injury to Reuven and to his portion of the building. The reason that Shimon can compel Reuven and Reuven cannot compel Shimon is that the resident of the upper story is always afraid that if repairs are not made to the lower portion of the building, the building may collapse, and with it the upper story. However, there may be situations where the upper story of the building will collapse and the lower portion of he building will stand. As for the ceiling in the lower apartment separating the first story from the second story, when it requires repair, Reuven must make the repairs to the ceiling separating his lower apartment from Shimon's upper apartment, and Shimon must plaster the top of the ceiling, which is Shimon's floor. There is also a dissent that holds that Shimon is responsible for the entire floor, which includes Reuven's ceiling. Repairs to the roof must be made by Shimon. If the foundations of the building become weakened, both parties must contribute equally to its repairs. Nowadays a great deal of the laws of this lesson are governed by local governmental laws and they may supersede many of the laws stated in this lesson. Assume that the building has fallen, due to external forces such as an earthquake, hurricane, typhoon, cyclone, or storm, or it has collapsed under its own weight from deterioration. Assume that both parties agree not to rebuild, or if they will rebuild they will use new materials. What is to be done with the materials from the fallen building? In many societies the material of the destroyed building of great value. Both Reuven and Shimon share proportionately in the whole and the broken material. For example, if the height of the lower story is ten feet and the height of the upper story is eight feet, Reuven would receive ten-eighteenths of the external material and Shimon would receive eight-eighteenths of the external material. If the destruction of the building indicates whose material is more apt to be broken in the fall, then the other gets the whole material. If Reuven alleges that he recognizes which are his beams and bricks and that they are the unbroken ones, and if Shimon pleads that he does not know if it is so, then Reuven will take those unbroken ones he alleges that are his and Shimon will then take an equal amount of unbroken material. Reuven and Shimon will then share the balance of the material proportionately. However, if Shimon disputes Reuven and alleges that the whole material claimed by Reuven is really from Shimon's part of the building, they share proportionately in all of the material without either party receiving a preference as to which material to take first. All that is stated herein is subject to the laws and regulations of the community where the parties reside. Most governmental subdivisions have specific laws and regulations concerning construction of buildings. What is stated herein is subject to such laws. The building is totally destroyed. Shimon wishes to rebuild and Reuven refuses. Shimon may rebuild the lower portion of the building at his own expense and reside there. Reuven may at any time reimburse Shimon, at which time Shimon may add the upper floor to the building and then vacate the lower floor and move into the upper story. If Reuven decides to rebuild and Shimon decides not to rebuild his upper story then Shimon is not compelled to rebuild his upper story. Should he decide to rebuild his upper story, he will have to compensate Reuven for any inconvenience caused to Reuven during the construction of the upper story and for any damage caused to Reuven. If both agree not to rebuild, then Reuven is entitled to two-thirds of the land or sales price, and Shimon is entitled to one-third of the land or sales price. This arbitrary formula was arrived at by the Sages as follows: they determined that a building will remain standing longer if there is no upper story in the building. The longevity of the building is decreased by a third because of the upper story. If the anticipated life span of the building is thirty years, it is estimated it will stand only twenty years if an upper story is added. If they determine to sell the land, each has the right of first refusal as to the other's portion. For example. They determine to sell the entire parcel for $60, of which Reuven is to get $40 and Shimon $20. Shimon can offer to buy Reuven’s share for the same $40. The local laws and local custom will govern the reconstruction of the building. Also, modern uses of strong material such as steel obviates some of the problems faced in reconstructing a structure. Subject to those laws and customs the following applies when the parties agree to rebuild the building. Reuven in planning his lower part of the building may not make any changes that will weaken the upper portion of the building. Thus, if before the exterior walls in the lower portion of the building were ten inches thick, they cannot now be six inches thick because they may not be able to support the upper part of the external walls and the roof, and Shimon's interior walls. Conversely, when Reuven rebuilds his upper portion of the building, he should not plan to use materials that will increase the weight on the lower portion of the building. The subject matter of this lesson is more fully discussed in Vol. V, Ch.164 of A Restatement of Rabbinic Civil Law b```y E. Quint, published by Jason Aronson, Inc. and on sale at local Judaica bookstores. Questions to quint@inter.net.il MEANING IN MITZVOT by Rabbi Asher Meir Each week we discuss one familiar halakhic practice and try to show its beauty and meaning. The columns are based on Rabbi Meir's Meaning in Mitzvot on Kitzur Shulchan Arukh. ORIENTATION IN PRAYER Our parsha begins to tell the story of the various utensils used in the Mishkan. It also begins to tell us about their placement: “Place the table outside the curtain, and the menorah next to the table, on the south side of the Mishkan; and the table on the north side” (Shemot 26:35). From this geography the gemara learns an interesting law of prayer: “Rebbe Yitzchak said, if you want to become wise, face south; to become wealthy, face north. This is symbolized by the table which was in the north and the menorah in the south” (Bava Batra 25b). The table is arrayed with loaves of bread, symbolizing wealth; the menorah casts light, symbolizing wisdom. This opinion assumes that there is a dichotomy between wisdom and wealth. When we turn towards the one, we turn away from the other. The Mishna expresses a similar sentiment, “Not all who engage in much commerce become wise” (Avot 2:5). While the mishna merely states that not all become wise, most commentators understand that the mishna is telling us that in general the pursuit of much wealth is at the expense of Torah learning. The gemara continues: “Rebbe Yehoshua ben Levi says, always face south, for wisdom will bring wealth, as it is written, ‘Length of days in the right hand, and in the left wealth and honor’” (Mishlei 3:16). At first glance this verse supports Rebbe Yitzchak’s idea of a dichotomy: The right represents length of days, which Rebbe Yehoshua ben Levi identifies with wisdom, for when we acquire wisdom, our days themselves are long and filled with meaning. And the left represents wealth. However, the key difference is unlike north and south which are neutral, the left is always considered subordinate to the right. Indeed, on Shabbat 63a the gemara states that if the left hand has wealth, then the dominant right must have even more! Rebbe Yehoshua ben Levi concedes that wisdom and wealth don’t contradict each other. But they can still not be together as equals. If we respect wealth and Torah as equal values, we will have to choose between them; only if we make Torah the principle goal, our right hand, can we benefit from wealth as well. The gemara continues further: Did not Rebbe Yehoshua ben Levi state that the Divine Presence is in the west? How then can he face south? Rather, the meaning is that we should tend slightly to one side. In other words, it is unthinkable that we should acquire wealth or wisdom by turning away from the Divine presence. Yet there is another implication: that turning towards G-d in prayer doesn’t contradict the quest for these. Our principle orientation must be towards HaShem, but we may also squint in the direction of other values, particularly Torah learning. This ruling is mentioned in the Rema on OC 94:2. The Rema rules like Rebbe Yitzchak, seemingly giving legitimacy for a desire for wealth as long as a person’s primary orientation is towards the Divine presence. Rabbi Meir has completed writing a monumental companion to Kitzur Shulchan Aruch which beautifully presents the meanings in our mitzvot and halacha. It will hopefully be published in the near future. Rabbi Meir authors a popular weekly on-line Q&A column, "The Jewish Ethicist", which gives Jewish guidance on everyday ethical dilemmas in the workplace. The column is a joint project of the JCT Center for Business Ethics, Jerusalem College of Technology - Machon Lev; and Aish HaTorah. You can see the Jewish Ethicist, and submit your own Qs — www.jewishethicist.com or www. aish.com From the virtual desk of the OU VEBBE REBBE The Orthodox Union – via its website – fields questions of all types in areas of kashrut, Jewish law and values. Some of them are answered by Eretz Hemdah, the Institute for Advanced Jewish Studies, Jerusalem, founded by HaRav Shaul Yisraeli, zt"l to prepare rabbanim and dayanim to serve the National Religious community in Israel and abroad. Ask the Rabbi is a joint venture of the OU, Yerushalayim Network, Eretz Hemdah... and the Israel Center. The following is a Q&A from Eretz Hemdah... Question: When can one kasher utensils from fleishig to milchig or vice versa? Answer: Let’s start with a basic understanding of the problem. From the perspective of the Gemara and even the Rishonim, one may kasher between fleishig and milchig. (We will refer to the two interchangeably). However, the Magen Avraham (509:11) reports a minhag not to do so. The rationale is that if we allow one to kasher freely, he may decide to have only one utensil which he uses for both. Chazal opposed this situation, as the Gemara (Chulin 8b) states that one should have three different knives to use for different functions. This minhag has been widely accepted and is considered binding in the Ashkenazic community. Harav Ovadiya Yosef shlita (Yabia Omer III, YD 4) shows some of the weaknesses of the minhag and says that it was not accepted by Sefardic poskim. Some important poskim understood that the prohibition is not so much not to use a formerly milchig utensil for fleishig, but rather not to kasher a utensil for that purpose. Consequently, if one kashered a utensil in order to prepare it for Pesach, he can change from milchig to fleishig (Shut Chatam Sofer, YD 110). Similarly, if the utensil became treif and is kashered, then it can be changed as well (Pri Megadim on Magen Avraham, ibid.). Harav Moshe Feinstein z.t.l. suggests that if no recognizable taste remains in the utensil (i.e. after kashering or after 12 months of non-use), it might be permissible to change (Igrot Moshe OC I, 43). Others permit kashering for a new owner, who never used the utensil in a different manner and, thus, has no reason to make mistakes (see Darkei Teshuva 121:59). An interesting machloket exists on whether one can switch from milchig to pareve (Tzitz Eliezer 9:38). It is easier to be lenient when a pareve utensil accidentally becomes milchig (Darkei Teshuva, ibid.). [The above is a brief survey of the topic and not a p’sak on any particular case]. Ed. notes (subject to further clarification and/or amendment): It is possible that permission can be obtained from a posek to kasher from meat to dairy or vice versa when the circumstances clearly indicate that the change will be only a onetime thing – for example, if someone received a gift of new cutlery that will be used for meat, it might be desired to make a onetime switch with the old meat cutlery to dairy. Maybe. Another point: Cutlery with handles of wood or plastic, might complicate the kashering process. A rav should be consulted to determine if kashering can be done, or if any special measures must be taken to facilitate kashering. Ask the Rabbi Q&A is part of Hemdat Yamim, the weekly parsha sheet published by Eretz Hemdah. You can read this section or the entire Hemdat Yamim at www.ou.org or www.eretzhemdah.org. And/or you can receive Hemdat Yamim by email weekly, by sending an email to lists@eretzhemdah.org with the message: Join Hemdatya - Please leave the subject blank. Ask the Vebbe Rebbe is partially funded by the Jewish Agency for Israel Hasidic Wisdom from the book by Simcha Raz (Elkins/Elkins) None of us serves our generation alone. For
example, David continues to inspire the downcast with his fiery passion,
generation after generation. And Shimshon's heroics continue to give
courage to the meek 'til this day. One who is never ashamed of oneself has no
shame whatsoever. Rite and Reason by Shmuel Pinchas Gelbard It is customary for the congregation to read aloud four p'sukim (of Megilat Esther) which are then repeated by the reader: ISH YEHUDI (2:5), U'MORDECHAI YATZA (8:15), LA-YEHUDIM (8:16), KI MORDECHAI HAYEHUDI (10:3) REASON To increase joy for the children and for everyone. REASON So that the listeners do not fall asleep (Avudraham). [Ed. note: I heard in the name of Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Auerbach zt"l that our reciting of LA-YEHUDIM HAI-TA in Havdala is probably an ignorant borrowing from Megila, and not something specific related to Havdala.] It is also customary to recite the p'sukim about the hanging of the 10 sons of Haman. REASON We can fulfill our obligation to read the Megila by hearing it read by another, based on the halachic principle of SHOMEI'A K'OMEH [hearing is equivalent to speaking]. However, the names of Haman's sons are to be read in one breath. Hence, it is necessary for each person to actually read the ten names aloud. The rule of SHOMEI'A K'ONEH applies to the mitzva to read, but it cannot include the requirement to do part of the reading in one breath. ArtScroll Series • Mesorah Publications Ltd. WORDS OF WISDOM WORDS OF WIT • by Shmuel Himelstein The Dubno Maggid once went wandering from town to town to earn money to support his family. In each place he would preach and receive a small sum of money in return. At one of his first stops, the communal leaders asked him, “Rabbi, if you are so desparately in need of money, why didn't you stay and preach in Dubno where everyone knows you, rather than wander about to towns where people have not really heard of you? Wouldn't you do better financially in Dubno?” “Our Sages tell us”, the Dubno Maggid replied, “that when Rivka was pregnant with Yaakov and Eisav, she was in great agony. Whenever she passed the Beit Midrash of Shem and Eiver, Yaakov pushed to leave the womb, and when she passed temples of idolatry, Eisav struggled to get out. This seems strange. Couldn't Rivka have spared herself from all this discomfort by simply staying at home? From this we learn that Rivka walked about not because she wanted to, but because she knew that if she remained at home and did nothing, she would be even worse off.” Excerpted with the permission of the copyright holder [SDT] G-d says V'YIKCHU LI, take - rather than give. Commentaries have a lot to say on the choice of word. When someone gives a gift to an important person, it is as if he received something from him. How much more so with G-d. The Alshich HaKadosh points out that we see this idea if a woman were to give a prominent man Kesef Kedushin, she is considered to have received, and we say there is a marriage. [SDT] Here's another way of interpreting the word B'TOCHAM in the pasuk V'A'SU LI KIKDASH V'ACANTI B'TOCHAM G-d said, “I will not come to Yerushalayim Shel Ma'ala (the Heavenly Jerusalem) until I will come to Yerushalayim Shel Mata (Jerusalem on Earth)”. (Taanit 5a) now the word fits well. When we build the "lower" Mikdash, the Divine Presence enters it AND its heavenly counterpart, hence, "and I will dwell in THEM". Pardes Yosef [SDT] The silver foundation blocks of the Mishkam were called ADANIM. , related to the word ADNUT, referring to G-d's mastery of the world. The "foundation" of the Mikdash is our acceptance of G-d's ADNUT in the world. KABBALAT OL MALCHUT SHAMAYIM is a foundation of our service to G-d in the Beit HaMikdash. Without it, the whole structure can collapse. -Avnei Neizer From the Desk of the Director Parshat Teruma describes the procedures for building the Mishkan, the “dwelling place” of the Almighty. The Torah details every aspect of the Tabernacle and its various appurtenances, including the Holy Ark, the Table, Menorah, Cherubim, and Altar. Each of these items is rich with symbolism; each played a major role in the service of Hakadosh Baruch Hu. The text also tells us that “you shall make the planks of the Tabernacle of acacia wood, standing erect.” In comparison to the above highly significant items, the reference to the wooden walls of the Mishkan seems almost mundane. Yet, this is the mastery of the Torah. For even from the most ordinary descriptions, the rabbis were able to adduce inner meanings and to offer messages of hope and strength. Why acacia wood and why did these planks stand vertically? The Midrash Rabba remarks that the acacia tree was created for the sole purpose of providing the necessary hard wood needed for the Mishkan and Temple. The Talmud (Ta’anit 20) adds that this stubborn quality is indicative of the perseverance of the Jewish people through troubled times. Says the Or Chaim: The erect form of the planks symbolizes man’s spiritual goal to bind together the heavenly and earthly realms, to link his lower nature with his higher aspirations. The Talmud (Yoma 72a), discussing the propensity of the Jewish people to fear the worst, also points to the tenacity of acacia wood. Just as this wood survives through thick and thin, so the Jewish people stand forever! Shabbat Shalom, Menachem Persoff, Director, Israel Center Towards better Davening and Torah reading Column #16. The contents of this weekly column are based on the sefer: EIM LAMIKRA HASHALEIM, by R' Nissan Sharoni, Ashdod, a guide to correct pronunciation of Hebrew, specifically in davening and Torah reading. Let's put many of the pieces we've had about syllables together, add a few points, and make a complete review of the topic of syllables. HAVARA - syllable. They come in two forms: S'GURA (closed) and P'TUCHA (open). Basically, an open syllable is made up of a consonantal letter and a vowel (T'NU'A). A closed syllable is made up of a letter with a vowel which is followed by either another letter that has a SH'VA NA (no vowel sound) under it, or by a letter with a DAGESH. The word SHABBAT is made of two syllables, both of which are S'GUROT (closed). The first, SHAB is made of a SHIN with a PATACH and the BET with a DAGESH. The DAGESH doubles the BET, giving the SHA a BET without a vowel sound to finish off the syllable. SHAB. The second syllable is BAT, consisting of the BET with a KAMATZ GADOL and the TAV at the end of the word, without a SH'VA under it, but it behaves as if it had a SH'VA NACH, meaning that it has no vowel sound of its own. Simpler yet is the one syllable word GAN (garden), which is a closed syllable - GIMMEL with a PATACH, GA, closed off to GAN by the NUN. The word MA (MEM-HEI) is also a one-syllable word, that syllable being open. MEM with a PATACH and a silent HEI which does not close the syllable. SHANA, year, is a two syllable word, both of which are P'TUCHOT, open. SHIN with a KAMATZ, SHA and NUN with a KAMATZ (and the silent HEI), NA. So far, so good. It gets a little stickier from here. Whereas a letter with a SH'VA NACH (no vowel sound) is attached to the previous letter with vowel to close of that syllable, a letter with a SH'VA NA (a short vowel sound) does not constitute its own syllable but is rather attached to the following syllable. This week's sedra is T'RUMA. One might think it has three syllables, but it only has two. The TAV with the SH'VA NA does not stand on its own, but is attached to the REISH-SHURUK, making the first syllable T'RU, an open syllable. The second syllable is also open, MA, the MEM-KAMATZ-silent HEI. So the statement that an open syllable is made of a letter and vowel has just been modified, A letter with a SH'VA NA will attach itself to the syllable. In the SH'MA, uk-shar-TAM L'OT, And you shall bind it as a sign... the LAMED-SH'VA of L'OT is part of the closed syllable ALEF-CHOLOM-TAV. The first word of the phrase, by the way, has three closed syllables. SH'MA is a one-syllable word. The SHIN with the SH'VA NA is attached to the MEM-PATACH-AYIN. Is it an open syllable or a closed one? Ashkenazim pronounce the word as if the AYIN is silent, so the syllable is open (incorrectly so). S'fardim (and others who give the AYIN a guttural sound) would say the word as the closed syllable it is. A letter with a CHATAF also does not make its own syllable, but is attached to the following syllable. EMET, truth, is actually a one-syllable word. The ALEF is voweled with a CHATAF-SEGOL which is supposed to be sounded shorter than a full SEGOL. eMET, not e-MET, and certainly not E-met. (As opposed to YE-led, BE-ged, ZE-rem, KE-sher, SHE-leg, etc. all of which are two syllables - the first is open and the second is closed. Many people say the word e-CHAD at the end of the first pasuk of SH'MA, with a prolonged CHET-KAMATZ. The result of this is to break up the CHAD syllable into two disjointed parts: CHAAAA and D. When the Gemara says to stretch ECHAD it was referring to the DALET at the end of the word. We've previously pointed out that if one pronounces that DALET like a D, then it cannot really be stretched. TH (as in the) can be stretched. PARSHA-PIX Across the top are bags full of gold, silver, and copper, representing the generous gifts of the people to the building of the Mishkan. So too, are the gem, olive oil, wood, and different threads part of these donations. You can see the gold rings, which are mentioned a few different times. Column is a column. The decorations of the Menora are there - cup, button, and flower. Sewing machine for the work. TTRIDDLES... are Torah Tidbits-style riddles on Parshat HaShavua (sometimes on the calendar). They are found in the hard-copy of TT scattered throughout, usually at the bottom of different columns. In the electronic versions of TT, they are found all together at the end of the ParshaPix-TTriddles section. Some TTriddles are also presentedfor call-in solution on Torah Tidbits Audio (Arutz-7, Thursday night). The best solution set submitted each week (there isnt always a best) wins a double prize a CD from Noam Productions and/or a gift (game, puzzle, book, etc.) from Big Deal Last week's (MISHPATIM) TTriddles: [1] This would result from having a study group in the Israel Center's Beit Midrash and another one in the 2nd floor conference room at the same time. [2] Flood, brothers, witness [3] HaShem, Adam, plus 21, plus 4, flocks and bread [4] Status-changing time-frame for those who go on 2 or 4 And the envelope please... [1] There are a few possibilities for this one, all using the same idea. The intended solution was to take a study group as a CHABURA, giving CHABURA TACHAT CHABURA, since the 2nd floor conference room is directly above the first floor Beit Midrash. Several people got this solution. One solver suggested that if the people in each group were positioned properly (or at least one in each group), then we would also have AYIN TACHAT AYIN (translated as an eye for an eye, but literally, an eye under an eye, etc.), and so too for SHEIN, YAD, and REGEL. [2] The answer is CHAMAS, a word meaning violent iniquity and other bad things. The word is used by G-d to describe the generation of the Flood. Yaakov Avinu used it in reference to what Shimon and Levi had done. And it is used by the Torah to describe a corrupt witness. The word appears 5 times in Chumash and 37 more times in the rest of Tanach. [3] Starting with Adam, if you count 21 generations you get to Yaakov Avinu. Add 4 generations from Yaakov and you get to Moshe. So we are looking for something in common with Adam, Yaakov, Moshe and flocks and bread. The answer is the word L’VADO, alone. G-d said that it was not good that Adam should be L’VADO. Yaakov found himself L’VADO when he was attacked by the guardian angel of Eisav. Yaakov had given instructions that the different groups of animals in the gift to Eisav should be L’VADO. In Mishpatim it says that we may not sacrifice to gods, only to HaShem L’VADO. At the end of Mishpatim, the Torah tells us that Moshe approached the top of Har Sinai L’VADO. And in Eikev, the Torah tells us that man does not live by bread L’VADO. Binyamin might have been on this list too, but the list in the TTriddle was restricted to those mentioned by name followed by the word L’VADO. [4] Those who go on two are humans. Those who go on four are animals. A person who kills another may have done the deed with intent to kill or not. One of the factors that might indicate a change in status from a SHOGEG (inadvertent) killer to a murderer is whether the victim and the perpetrator had a history of enmity, MITMOL SHILSHOM, from yesterday and the day before. The same time-frame term is used for an animal as to whether its owner is held partially or completely responsible for damage caused by the animal. Did the animal have a record of violent behavior MITMOL SHILSHOM. This week's TTriddles: [1] 2 x French bread with... [2] Its Aramaic name tells us one of its main uses [3] Vague at first; not at last Israel Center Notes: This is a new expanded Torah Tidbits This ‘n That column. It will now carry reports of special Center programs and other Center news, in addition to things we want to share with our readers about Torah Tidbits. ITEM Last week we reported about Howie Kahn’s terrific concert of nostalgic Jewish music from the ‘60s and ‘70s (of last century). Well, this week we have some exciting news in that department. So many people approached us and Howie asking about a repeat performance that we’ve scheduled on for the Motza’ei Shabbat before Purim. See the UPCOMING section of the BackPages for details. You might have missed it once – you don’t want to miss it TWICE! This concert is primarily for those who did not attend the first one. Several months down the line, IY”H, we will have Howie back for a totally new show of nostalgic music. If you did come to the first concert and want to come again to the encore performance, we won’t stop you. ITEM We have prepared a one-sheet, 4-pager pullout for Purim, but have decided to insert it into this week’s TT rather than wait until next week. If it interests you, we suggest you pull it out and put it where you will remember to find it for use on Purim. NOTICE: The OU Israel Center and Torah Tidbits do not necessarily endorse the political or halachic opinions of its advertisers, nor to we guarantee their quality of service. ITEM YOU is a brand new organization for Young Olim United. Their first activities were a Shabbaton and Motza’ei Shabbat program held recently - both successful and therefore promising for the future of YOU. Their primary “target” population are Olim and potential Olim between the ages of 21 and 29. They have another Shabbaton coming up on Parshat Zachor (see box announcement on one of the unnumbered pages inserted into this issue of TT. The Israel Center will be hosting a Davening-Megila Reading-Breakfast for YOU on J’lem Purim morning. See box announcement elsewhere in this issue. ITEM The Shabbaton this past Shabbat was wonderful, educational, and relaxing, with veteran Shabbaton attenders being joined by several first-timers. Davening, shiurim, oral Tidbits, singing, camaraderie, and a mystifying puzzle of the metal ring combined for an enjoyable Shabbaton. Our next Shabbaton will be on Shabbat HaGadol, IY”H. Watch for details. ITEM FOR MEN ONLY Most of the programs of the Israel Center are open to men and women. But we’ve always had a number of fine shiurim for women only. For a while now, we have 3 Gemara shiurim for men. Rabbi David Zitter is learn- ing ARVEI P’SACHIM at 10:00am, Sunday through Thursday, Rabbi Shmuel Halpern does Daf Yomi at 3:00pm, Sun-Thu, and Rabbi Hillel Ruvel gives an intense shiur on the first chapter of KEDUSHIN at 4:30pm each day. On Thursday, the second half of the shiur is devoted to Parshat HaShavua. Fellas, these shiurim are for you. ITEM Did you know that every week, hundreds of yeshiva and seminary guys and girls volunteer in dozens of Chessed frameworks arranged for them by NITZOTZ, the Israel Center’s Student Volunteering Program. We’re talking the whole range — from children’s homes to senior citizens’ residences, from one-on-one tutoring and big brother/sister-ing to teams of volunteers running educational and entertaining programs for disad- vantaged and/or disabled kids and adults. The participants in NITZOTZ are mostly one-year students from the States and other Anglo countries. In addition to the Chessed they are doing, their experiences bring them closer to Israel and its people. This makes them more sensitive to community needs when they return (temporarily) to their “homes” and campuses - and - it increases the likelihood of their staying for a second year of learning, and of making Aliya. Do you know the story of the blind men and the elephant? How each one had a different perspective and therefore a different picture of what an elephant is? That’s the Israel Center, multi-dimensional but most people see only part. The Israel Center's Beth Din to adjudicate and arbitrate monetary disputes, according to Jewish law There is a registration fee of 200nis per case No other charges for this service Please call 566-7787 ext. 204 for further information We have forms for two types of cases: Those where both parties agree to submit their dispute to the Beth Din, and those where a complainant wants the Beth Din to summon the second party. The first wave of forms have been sent out From this point on, requests for forms will be processed quickly and the Beit Din will be handling cases smoothly. Yitzhak Fund, Esq. • Rabbi Emanuel Quint Chairpersons Kashrut Questions If you find a discrepancy between the Hebrew labeling and the original packaging... or if you have any other OU kashrut questions, call this toll-free number (from Israel to NY) 1-800-949-0123 From 4:00pm - midnight, you get a human; other times, leave a voice- message OU Kashrut in Israel office at the Center: 5667787 Kashruth Notice Nestle Brand Crunch Cereal, distributed by Osem in Israel, bears an unauthorized OU symbol. The product is dairy,and not under OU supervision. OU Kashruth-Israel Division Israel Center Cafe After nourishing the soul, come nourish the body serving coffee, sandwiches, toasts, pizza, french fries, salads, eggs, stuffed potatoes, lasagna, soups... and more Located on the lower level of the Israel Center Hours: Sun.-Thu. - 9:00am - 2:30pm Ask about our catering services on or off the Center premises Thirsty? We now have a hot drinks machine with coffee, tea, & hot chocolate located on the ground floor, anda cold drinks (cans) machine on the first floor near the library. HAMANTASHEN FROM HERBY'S BAKE SHOP Herby's Bakeshop of Beit El, certified mehadrin by the Mateh Binyamin Rabbinate. The Hamatashen are available in 4 flavors: Poppy, date, apricot, prune. Packages are 18NIS each. There will also be a whole wheat dough hamantash with special all natural filling for 20NIS per package. Orders will be accepted until - and including - Thursday, February 21st. Hamantashen may be picked up on Sunday and Monday, February 24 and 25. To place an order, submit the form below (or a copy of it) with payment to the front desk. Or mail to Israel Center, POB 37015, Jerusalem 91370 Or mail your order to tt@ou.org NESTO - Native English-Speaking Teen Olim Individuality vs Conformity; this was the debate NESTO held last Tuesday. Does Judaism value individuality? Does Halacha want us all to conform? Can we be unique and creative in our service to G-D? These and many other interesting questions were raised in our interactive, lively discussion led by Rabbi Derovan of the Jewish Values Education Institute at the Israel Center. We also saw a few movie clips that helped spark the discussion. The evening was very thought-provoking and inspiring to all. Thank you Rabbi Derovan for your valuable insights and for your time. One can ask and many have asked what role music, art, literature and the like play in Judaism, in our attempts to serve G-d. Many answers have been given, but one that we at NESTO strongly identify with is the one given by Rav Kook. Rav Kook explains that every human being is a unique, complex individual full of emotions, thoughts and feelings. He illustrates how crucial it is to the world for every soul to be able to express those emotions, thoughts and individuality and how music, art and literature can be used as a means to express those feelings and to reveal to the world our uniqueness and our importance to mankind. In an effort to act upon Rav Kook’s words and in the hope of expressing our individuality and uniqueness, NESTO held our annual Karaoke Night this past Motzei Shabbat. The music was blaring and our souls were singing as every NESTOite had a chance to sing a song or two of their choice and to perform live at the TYC. The pizza and popcorn added to the experience. The night was loads of fun and many memorable moments were created. There is no doubt that NESTO revealed to the world (ok, maybe just to the neighbors) our uniqueness and importance to mankind. March 1-2 Parshat Ki Tisa – Shabbaton in Beit Rimon. Flyers have been sent out and registration has begun. The theme is Reach Out and Touch Someone: The Essence of Prayer. You don’t want to miss it, so call now. That’s all for now, Shabbat Shalom, Josh, Chave & Naomi JR. NESTO Everyone had an amazing time in last week's truly inspiring activity on peer pressure. Beyond all the fun stuff, group discussions led to fascinating conclusions with some very entertaining skits and role-plays. The question of holding on to our individuality as opposed to succumbing to peer pressure led to a very animated debate which captivated us all. Remember the question and challenge you must ask yourself daily: The powerful play of life continues and you can contribute a verse, WHAT WILL YOUR VERSE BE?? Next week, (Wednesday, Feb.20), we have a very fun evening planned in honor of Purim. We will be playing Bingo... with a twist... so don't forget to come dressed up as the elderly members of our society! The bingo prizes will be great as will the pizza and popcorn, and there will even be a prize for best costume. We can't wait to see you all there! Finally next Shabbat (Shabbat Zachor, Feb. 22-23) is JR NESTO's very first Shabbaton. It is going to be fantastic. The theme is "Heroes & Heroines" so be prepared for some more mind-blowing and motivating activities. We will be going bowling on Motzei Shabbat. If you have not signed up yet, just call Natalie (058 722 556). Well that's all folks, Shabbat Shalom, Natalie, Rafi and Hillel NESTO, the Israel Center's youth program for Anglo-Israelis • tel. 566-7787 ext. 245 • fax: 561-7432 • spodek@netvision.net.il • Josh Spodek, Director • Chave Abrahams, Asst.Dir. Naomi Skorecki, Bat Sherut • Jr. NESTO Staff: Natalie Rubinstein, Rafi Poch NESTO is partially funded by the Jewish Agency for Israel TIYULIM and SHABBATONIM Call the TIYUL HOTLINE Dial the Israel Center's number 5-66-77-87, then press 211. You'll hear "thank you, one moment please", and then the phone system's music for 15 seconds. Then the Tiyul Hotline message begins. You can listen to the whole message and then press 2 to leave your message, or you can interrupt by pressing 2 right away and then leaving your message. THE TRAVEL DESK The TRAVEL DESK of the Israel Center exists... to make registration and detail-receiving for Israel Center tiyulim more efficient and less head- achy for you. To help you - whether you live in Israel or are visiting - plan private tiyulim and make in-Israel travel arrangements Sarah will be happy to assist you on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9:00am to 1:00pm. Call Sarah at the Center, 566-7787 ext. 249. Note: When a tiyul says "Bring your own lunch", you can do that... or this: Call the TRAVEL DESK or the TIYUL HOTLINE up to the day before the TIYUL and order a box lunch from the Israel Center Cafe. 18 shekel will get you a delicious sandwich, a refreshing drink (specify regular or diet) and a dessert. Your box lunch willbe ready for you when you board the bus. Read carefully...Shabbat HaGadol is Shabbat Parshat Tzav, March 22-23. We will IY"H be having davening, meals, shiurim, a Shabbat HaGadol Drasha, and more We have yet to finalize with a guest rabbi, nor have other details been worked out yet. But we wanted you to know that we are having an In-House Shabbaton HaGadol You can call to reserve places (a smart idea since space is limited) and we will call you with the details. Watch Torah Tidbits for further details. The Shabbat before Pesach is a good one not to have to cook and clean for. And it is also a great time to review the laws and customs of Pesach and get some new Hagada material. It will be GADOL! LAST CALL Tuesday, Feb. 19 (7 Adar, birthday & yahrzeit of Moshe Rabbeinu) • A Very Special Tiyul for Women Only • An inspirational and informative full day of travel and prayer at the resting places of our matriarchs in the Galil • Yocheved bat Levi, Mother of Moshe Rabbeinu • Tzipora, wife of Moshe Rabbeinu • Elisheva, wife of Aharon HaKohen (sister-in-law of Moshe Rabeinu) • Bilha & Zilpa, wives of Yaakov Avinu • Rachel, wife of Rabbi Akiva • Guided and led by Basha Zussman and Esther Linder • 8:00 am to 8:00pm • Route via Mediterranean Coastal Road • Bring food & water for the day) • Price: 100NIS members110NIS non members KASHRUT POLICY: Food for Israel Center In-House programs is supervised by OU - in-Israel - Mehadrin. Israel Center sponsored trips and programs are under Mehadrin Hashgacha. Hotels, restaurants, and tiyulim advertised by the Travel Desk or by outside parties are not necessarily Mehadrin and are not endorsed by the OU or the Israel Center. Travel Desk Specials For reservations at the hotels listed below or any other Israeli hotels not listed here, please call Sarah directly at the Travel Desk 566 7787, ext. 249. She'll be happy to accomodate you with any of your requests. Dan Pearl - Jerusalem • thru March 31 Midweek special package: 2 nights, B/B, 840NIS per couple Inbal Hotel, Jerusalem • Shabbatot thru February 1150NIS per couple F/B Sheraton-Plaza, Jerusalem • Shabbatot thru February • 1000NIS per couple f/b, child 2-12 in parents room, 150NIS David Citadel, Jerusalem • Shabbatot thru February 1080NIS per couple F/B Sheraton-Moriah, Dead Sea • midweek thru February, 550NIS per couple, h/b (no min. stay) B/B = Bed & Breakfast • H/B = Half Board (breakfast + one meal) • F/B (3 meals a day) Midweek = SUN, MON, TUE, WED nights • Weekends = THU, FRI, Motza"sh nights Attention: Students from Abroad: Are your parents planning on visiting you this year? If so, you want to speak to us (02-566-7787 ext. 249). We have many attractive deals for them and you. Let us turn an ordinary "been there, dit it" visit into an unforgettable, special one! The Back Page of TT507 "Regular" Israel Center classes & lectures - 15NIS for members, 20NIS for non-mem. Life members, free No one will be turned away for lack of ability to pay (Membership is 225NIS per year) Many Israel Center programs are partially funded by the Jewish Agency for Israel * Life members pay member's rates for programs of other organizations that take place at the Center and for programs that the Center is co-sponsoring with another organization SHABBAT DAY 3:45pm • Shabbat afternoon shiur on Parshat HaShavua with Yaakov Peterseil • Men & women invited • Drinks available • Mincha if Minyan MOTZA'EI SHABBAT Motzaei Shabbat, Feb. 16, 8:30pm, Why does the Zohar say that Purim is greater than Yom Kippur? - Rabbi Efraim Sprecher SUNDAY 9:30am (women) •Mystical Insights into the Months of the Year • Golda Warhaftig 10:30am (men & women) A look backat Trumah • Phil Chernofsky N'shei Library - 10:30am - 12:45pm 11:30am (men & women) Parshat HaShavua • Shprintee Herskovits Men who are looking to do some serious learning... Shiur in Arvei P'sachim by Rabbi David Zitter, 10:00am, SUN-THU Daf Yomi in English with Rabbi Shmuel Halpern, 3:00pm, SUN-THU Shiur in Kiddushin by Rabbi Hillel Ruvel, 4:30pm, SUN-THU (Maariv follows) All shiurim take place in the Israel Center's Ganchrow Beit Midrash one flight up Sunday, Feb.17, at the Israel Center She'arim College of Jewish Studies for Women Purim Yom Iyun for Women: Happiness & Light: We Can Have It Again! 9:30am Mrs. Riva Sperling: Mesirot Nefesh in the Megilla 11:00am Rebbetzin Holly Pavlov: Happily Hanging Haman 12:15pm Rabbi Jeremy Kagan: Internalizing Purim 20NIS, Israel Center Members: 15NIS • For more info: tel. (02) 651-4240, shearim@shearim.com Sundays 7:30pm • (This week & next: Sadness & Joy: Purim in our Lives) Jewish Values Education Institute • Do you have questions? • Do you have doubts? Are you seeking the truth? Open to all topics, feelings, questions, doubts, beliefs, and needs from a loving, open, Torah perspective No lecture or criticism - Only acceptances, respect & response • Dr. Daniel Stolper , A psychologist, a rabbi, but mostly a person 8:00pm • new series , Born to Win - An exciting adventure in Torah & Psychology towards Happiness and Personal Wellbeing with Rabbi Yosef Rubenstein, MA Psych, Columbia, 30 years experience MONDAY 9:15am • Excursions into the World of Nevi'im (the Prophets) First topic: The 7 Prophetesses Mrs. Pearl Borow N'shei Library open on Mondays, 10:00am - 12:30pm 10:30am (men & women) • Of Clothing and Other Things • Phil Chernofsky 11:36am (men & women) • Jewish History 2nd Temple • Young Herod on Trial with Dr. Henry Goldblum Monday, Feb. 18, 8:00pm • LOGIC & CRITICAL THINKING: Leah Zitter (curious? Call 671-6059) 8:00-9:30pm • M.A.S.K. - Biweekly Parent Support Group (02-586-7289) child at Risk? Sharpen Your Parenting Skills with Dr. Judy Belsky Mon. Feb. 18, 8:30pm, Women's concert by Tofa'ah - Come dance in celebration of Adar with Jerusalem's No. 1 all-women's band...Tofa'aj, 25/30NIS TUESDAY 9:00-9:50am Midrash on Purim • Dr. Hayim Abramson 9:55-10:45am Megilat Esther • Dr. Hayim Abramson N'shei Library open on Tuesdays, 11:15am - 12:45pm 10:50-11:40am Parshat HaShavua R. Mordechai Spiegelman 11:45am (women) Chabad insights into Parshat HaShavua and the Actualia of Our Time Rachel Zisk The Israel Center and the Old City Free Loan Association Gemach - Free Loan Society to provide interest-free loans for people in financial distress. Interviews at the Center on Tuesdays from 10:00-12:00 Please bring ID TUESDAYS 4:00pm • Writing Your Personal Memoirs THIS SERIES IS CLOSED. THOSE INTERESTED MAY SIGN UP FOR THE NEXT SERIES. CALL 5667787 X204. Feb. 19 • 8:00pm • A new Way of Looking at Megilat Esther with Dr. Joe Levinson Feb. 19 • 7:30-10:00pm • Pre-Purim fun: Jewish Story Telling & Humor; an evening of pure joy and fun featuring three outstanding professional story tellers: Rebecca Schram Zafrany; Yosef HaMesaper; Jane Golbert • 45/55NIS WEDNESDAY 9:30am Towards a More Meaningful Davening Experience Dr. Joel Luber 10:30am Break the Fear Habit... And Live! withAlan Romm P.C. 3:00pm Women in Tanach with Pearl Borow 8:00-10:00pm • Aliya Counselling with Miriam Bass 7:45-8:45pm Jewish Philosophy Road map to the Prophets - Rambam's Guide for the Perplexed Now studying: Rambam's Approach to Korbanot Ramban's Commentary on the Torah and its Wellsprings Now studying: G-d's Ongoing Melacha & the Celestial Shabbat with Rabbi Chaim Eisen • alternating topics Moadon Sanhedria presents (at the Israel Center) Wednesday, Feb. 20, 8:00pm PURIM Shpeil with famous violinist Nechama Rosler accompanied by Naftali Aharoni, members of the Jerusalem Philharmonic Orchestra for a quarter of a century Program: Music, Music, Music...Klezmer, Classical, Gypsy, Folk, Chassidic and much more Special feature in compliance with Megilla specifications: "To Fulfill the Wish of Every Man" Requests of Musical Favorites from the Audience Divrei Torah, Special refreshments, Shulamit's Sweets and Treats in the Purim Spirit! Entrance: Whatever you want to pay! Shulamit has been co-ordinator of Moadon Sanhedria for over a quarter of a century associated with the Jerusalem Municipality: Dept. of Moadonim THURSDAY in the morning Shiurum while you fold; Parshat HaShavua and/or the Calendar various presenters 10:30am SLIM FOR LIFE, Libby 651-8061 Elisheva 999-6479 No obligation for the first session Male Choir Rehearsal Thursdays at 7:30pm Led by Yisrael Shwarzstein (for more information, 02 583 3389) Songs by Rosenblatt, Lewandowski, N. Shemer, Carlebach 8:00pm The Book of Yehoshua with Reb Yosef Schreiber Torah Tidbits Audio with Phil Chernofsky on Israel National Radio (Arutz-7), 98.7FM and 1539AM, Thursdays, 10:07-11:00pm, or anytime on www.israelnationalnews.com FRIDAY 9:00am In-Depth Pirkei Avot with Rabbi Chaim Eisen Avrom Silver Jerusalem College for Adults Fall Program 5762 (2001 - 2002) At the Israel Center Tuesdays 9:00am A Study of the 613 Mitzvot with Rabbi Aharon Adler 10:15am, Parshat Hashavua with Rabbi Dr. Sholom Gold TUE Feb 19 • 10:15am Avrom Silver Jerusalem College for Adults in cooperation with the David Cardozo Academy announces a series of 4 lectures by noted scholar and author Rabbi Dr. Natan Lopes-Cardozo “REVELATI0N & HALACHA” 11:30am, A Study of the Haftarot with Esther Kitov Wednesdays 9:00am, Studies in Maimonides: The Jewish State and the Messianic Era with Rabbi Macy Gordon 10:20am Feb. 6,13,20 • T'hilim - P'sukei D'zimra The Daily Prayers • Rabbi David J. Derovan All JCA classes - 20NIS per class (payment is separate from Israel Center classes) RESUMES AFTER PURIM: Also on TUESDAYS at the CENTER Two Tuesday morning classes at the Israel Center by the Yad Yaakov Center for Jewish Education Separate fees. Call (02) 652-4601 for further information 9:00-10:30am The Journey of the Soul in Biblical Stories Rabbi Yosef Leibowitz 10:30-11:30am Rambam's Shmoneh P'rakim (8 chapters) Rabbi Yosef Leibowitz Upcoming at the Israel Center Motzaei Shabbat, Feb. 23. 8:30om • Jewish Music from the 60's & 70's • Ruach Uno featuring Howie Kahn • Members: 30NIS, non-members: 35NIS • (Same show as February 2nd • Watch for announcements of an all-new show in the future) Sunday, Feb. 24. 8:00pm, Loving Marriage: Relationships: Expectations vs. Reality with Rabbi David Aaron, Drs. Deborah and Michael Tobin, Gila Manolson Read carefully! Purim-time schedule Monday, Feb. 25 - Taanit Esther - Mincha: 1:20 and 4:45pm Shiurim 3:45 & bet. Mincha & MaarivRefreshments Monday, Feb. 25, Mon. Feb 25: 8:30pm, The Israel Center and the Reb Shlomo Minyan of Har Nof 050962085 presents The World of Nigun: an evening of Jewish Soul Music with Mike Tabor who will transport you into the exhilarating and colorful world of Jewish spirituality through his unique repertoire of folk music and stories. Bouzouki, Violin and Recorder melodies, with accompanying narrative and exploration of the spirit, create an unusual and enriching spiritual experience. come, enjoy and be inwardly refreshed. Discounted copies of Mike's new CD "Jewish Soul" will be on sale Tuesday, Feb. 26 - Purim outside of J'lemPurim Extravaganza - 10:00am-2:00pm, Music with David Perkins (11:30 & 1:00pm), Arts & Crafts (10:00am Gan-4th grade), 11:30am - 5th-8th grade), Balloon Animals, Face Painting (Create your costume face for Purim), Costume contest with prizes, videos, Free drinks and Hamantashen, surprises • 20NIS per child/15NIS for third child in family Wednesday, Feb. 27 - J'lem Purim8:30am Shacharit, Torah & Megila, breakfast (sponsored by Young Olim United in conjunction with the Israel Center invite Olim and potential Olim (ages 21-29) • Ruach and costumes encouraged (no charge) Friday - Sunday, March 1-3 • In the Footsteps of the Sanhedrin, A study seminar led by Barnea Selavan • $249 at Lavi. Call 5667787 x261 from more information Pesach Week Rental • Dates Flexible Spacious 3 bedroom, fully furnished apartment in San Simon. Strictly Kosher, Cable TV 02-6798708 • 058-464249 • sdtarag@actcom.co.il OU ISRAEL CENTER Seymour J. Abrams Orthodox
Union Jerusalem World Center 22 Keren Ha'Yesod POB 37015 Jerusalem 91370 This publication and many of the programs of the Israel Center and NCSY b'Yisrael are assisted by grants from The Jewish Agency for Israel TT is published and printed "in house" at the Israel Center [The
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