Israel Is Kiddush Hashem

This Shabbat is the special Shabbat when we read Parshat Parah. This is all about the offering of the Red Heifer, whose ashes atoned for one who had come in contact with a corpse.

It is read before the month of Nissan. It was necessary for the entire nation to be in a state of purity, so that all could participate in the offering of the Korban Pesach.

The Hatarah comes from Ezekiel thirty-six. It speaks of a time when waters of purification will be sprinkled upon the entire Jewish nation.

It is the most Zionistic Haftarah in the Jewish calendar. It seems to be referring to the remarkable times that we are currently experiencing.

It speaks of a time when Hashem will decide, despite our not deserving it, that the House of Israel will be rebuilt.

There will be an in gathering of the exiles from the four corners of the earth. The land that was left fallow, will again produce beautiful fruits and grains.

The cities that were once desolate, will be filled with people, like the number of cattle and flocks brought to the Temple for the holidays. The greatest part of the prophecy describes how Hashem will remove from us, our hearts of stone, and replace it with hearts of flesh. “You will be My people, and I will be Your G-d.

This is a description of the Redemption that will be experienced in stages. As we see our enemies being defeated, we realize that this prophecy of great days for the Jewish people is at hand. All Jews from all over the world, must come home, to get a front row seat to witness these prophecies being fulfilled right before our eyes.