The Midrash notes that Hashem does not “need” or “benefit” from the light provided from the the Menorah. Rather, Hashem commands us to do the Avodah of the Menorah for our benefit. Likewise, later in this week’s Midrash, Rabi Abba HaKohen Bar Papa relates that his practice was to avoid passing crowds and groups [...]
In discussing the choreographed encampments and movements of Bnei Yisroel and the Midbar, which were determined by the position and movement of the Aron, the Midrash discusses the movement of the Aron in the times of Dovid HaMelech, when the Aron was lost in battle to the Pelishtim and then later returned. Before moving [...]
In this week’s Parsha we learn about the tragic loss of Nadav and Avihu, two amazing sons with incredible potential. The Midrash and Meforshim connect their mistake with the Mitzvah given to Aaron afterward, of not abusing wine or serving in the Mikdash intoxicated. Given the topic, I felt it apropos to discuss the Torah’s [...]
Imagine trying to put together one of those very large and detailed Lego sets without the instructions. Even using the picture on the box, it would be pretty difficult. Klal Yisroel were told to make and do things for the construction of the Mishkan that they had no idea how to do. Likewise, upon completion, [...]
Not much commentary necessary here, just straight Midrash, a little harsh but important for every parent and mechanech to think about. Some issues kids are born with, and some they cause to themselves, but how many are our fault? Do we No when its easier to say yes and give in? Do we fall for [...]
The contrast between Parshas Tetzaveh, where we learn about the Mitzvos regarding the garments of the Kohanim, and what many (unfortunately) do on Purim is striking. The fact that the Torah gives specific instructions on dress in the holiest place in the world tells us that the way we dress is an avodah. The clothes [...]
The Midrash records all the different types of gold that Hashem created, their different qualities and uses: אָמַר רַבִּי שִּמְעוֹן בֶּן לָקִּיש לאֹ הָיָה הָעוֹלָם רָאוּי לְהִּשְתַמֵּש בַזָהָב, וְלָמָה נִּבְרָא בִּשְבִּיל הַמִּ שכָן וּבִּשְ ביל בֵּית הַמִּקְדָש... אָמַר רַבִּי שִּמְעוֹן בֶּן לָקִּיש לאֹ הָיָה הָעוֹלָם רָאוּי לְהִּשְתַמֵּש בַזָהָב, וְלָמָה נִּבְרָא בִּשְבִּיל הַמִּ שכָן וּבִּשְ ביל [...]
Rashi tells us at the end of the Parsha how Nadav and Avihu at Har Sinai saw an image of Hashem. The pasuk describes this image but it is really beyond our full understanding. The pasuk goes on to say that Nadav and Avihu had a meal before this image and were chayav misa for [...]
The Midrash tells us that when Hashem said “Anochi Hashem Elokeicha”, the entire world went silent. Any small noise, anywhere in the world, even from the smallest of creatures or aspects of nature, even if unheard by others, would have “detracted from” (K’v’yachol) or distracted from Hashem's Oneness. We see for there to be a [...]
