OUTREACH

Baruch Hashem

Eikev 5779

The simple text of this Parsha needs little interpretation (indicated by the sparse amount of Rashi commentary) as Moses directly rebukes, admonishes and warns the Jewish People regarding their behavior, weaknesses and rebellious obstinate nature.

Moses’ monologue refers to many failures and acts of malfeasance ranging from the sin of the golden calf to the lack of faith instigated by the ten spies who maligned Israel and questioned G-d’s assurance that we would easily conquer and inherit the Holy Land, including other negative transgressions.

Yet in the midst of these painful and embarrassing accusations and realizations Moses expresses the deep, unconditional and boundless love that Hashem has for His children, Israel.  No matter how far a Jew has strayed from the Torah and Mitzvos path, G-d never forsakes or abandons us.  Even when for reasons beyond our comprehension we are cast into exile and suffering, G-d accompanies us and experiences (anthropomorphically) the same exile and suffering.

Conversely, even when we are in exile and challenged we see and feel G-d’s presence. An obvious manifestation of this connection to G-d and His presence is the Holy Land of Israel.

There are many beautiful places in our world, both wonders of G-d and manmade. Mountains, valleys, forests, rivers, lakes, oceans, flowers, wildlife etc. etc. etc.  Anyone who has traveled anywhere is cognizant of G-d’s beautiful creations.

Israel is different. Together with beautiful vistas that include every aspect of our physical world mentioned above, there is another dimension that permeates Israel.

There is a sense of Holiness beyond the physical that exudes from the very rocks, earth, water and air that make up this Jewish Land.

It is as if you breathe in G-dliness just by being there.  When the Torah states that Israel is “the land where the eyes of G-d are upon it from the beginning to the end of the year”, you can almost feel the piercing gaze of Hashem constantly.

As we come closer to the advent of Moshiach more of us are feeling and seeing more of the actual spirituality and G-dliness that dwells in Israel. The Torah portion concludes with the second section of the Shema – “When you will listen and fulfill G-d’s direction ……. I (G-d) will grant you the ultimate blessings as you inhabit the Holy Land”.

We are back from Israel to make sure that when we are prepared to go to Israel with Moshiach every one of the approximately 5,000 Jews living in the 33154 area will come with us. We’re almost there.  Let’s get ready in a serious way to give G-d what He requests and He will give us what we request.

Have a good Shabbos and a good week.

Rabbi S. Lipskar

List of All Holiday Dates

Below is a list of all major holiday dates for the next four years. All holidays begin at sundown on the day before the date specified here.

For more information Click here