A Tenth to Charity

The Torah gives the command of tithing all of our produce. This is called, “Ma’aser.” There is another type of Ma’aser, known as, “Ma’aser Kesafim,” where we are expected to give a tenth of our income to charity.

We are taught that this is one area where we are allowed to test Hashem. If we are diligent in this Mitzva, we will be wealthy. We will never become poor because of the Tzedaka that we give.

There are many details involved in the application of this Mitzva. There are many “deductions” that may come off of our Ma’aser Kesafim. And there could be instances where we were careless by giving beyond our means.

What is crucial to the observance of this commandment, is the ability to develop a generous heart. Giving to others should not be viewed as a burden, but a joy.

It should bring a smile to our faces when we realize how we made someone else’s life a little easier. Compassion and kindness are attributes of the Jew. Sometimes these traits need to be learned so that it will come naturally to us.

There are many people that are going through difficult times. It may be more than just financial difficulties. This is why possessing the character traits of feeling another’s pain, and giving encouragement and understanding are also aspects of charity.

The word מדקה comes from the word, צודק, to act correctly.

It is our duty to give our Ma’aser Kesafim. But it is also our duty to show kindness and compassion to everyone.

Deviant Behavior

The Torah describes three different types of deviant behavior that we must recognize and expose. There is the false prophet, the one who incites, and the condemned city.

The false prophet or נביא שקר, represents the charismatic leader who is really a demagogue. People may seem him as a visionary or statesman. They must be smart enough to see through him, and realize that his agenda is not for the sake of Heaven. He must be exposed and destroyed.

The one who incites is usually a relative or close friend. Because of this closeness, his heretical ideas are given credibility. He convinces his family and friends that they should consider his enlightened viewpoint. The reality is that listening to him will turn him away from the Torah.

The condemned city, or עיר הנידחת, refers to a person who is swept away by the attitudes of the masses. He is a follower and not a leader. The ideas that are expressed are not Torah and must be shown for what they are; complete nonsense.

Society today presents us with many obstacles that could easily allow us to go astray. We must beware of the demagogues and those who incite. And we must not blindly follow just because others are doing it.

Spirituality of the Vegetarian

The Torah explains how permission was granted to eat meat, even when it was not part of a sacrifice. It is described as בשר תאוה, “meat of lust.”

The מעינה של תורה analyzes the difference between Adam and Noach. Some may have thought that Noach was on a higher level than Adam, because he was allowed meat and Adam was a vegetarian.

This was just the opposite. Adam was created directly from G-d and was very holy. The satisfaction that others got from meat, he got from vegetables. It was similar to the Manna that could taste like anything the person wanted.

This might indicate that the need for meat comes from a less spiritual need. The realization that most people could not reach the level of Adam, called for the laws of ritual slaughter and permission to eat meat whenever desired.

Perhaps this should cause us to be more respectful of our vegetarian friends, who may be on a higher spiritual level, than we realized.

Removing Abominations

There is a commandment in the Torah that upon entering Eretz Yisrael, we are to utterly destroy all places of worship to false gods.

The Land of Israel was given as an inheritance to the Jewish people. It is meant to be the place where Mitzvot are observed, and a close bond with Hashem is created.

Symbols of idol worship are clearly a blemish and detracts from this holiness. It is understandable, that it is necessary for the day to come, when such symbols would no longer exist.

The Rambam in Hilchot Melachim, has a section that was censored in many versions. He wrote that although it was clear that the religion of Islam and Christianity were false (this is why it was censored), he preferred that these religions be observed as opposed to paganism.

He felt that these two religions had a concept of Mashiach. This was important because it would make it easier for them to accept our true Mashiach when he comes.

Although it might be painful for us to see places of Avoda Zara in Israel, we must be patient and respectful of other religions, until Mashiach comes and removes all defilements in our land.

Loud Curses

The Torah describes a ceremony that took place by the mountains of Gerizim and Eival. Six tribes stood on each mountain. The Levites recited the blessings for observing the Torah on Mount Gerizim and the curses towards Mount Eival.

This must have been an awesome experience to have witnessed such a ceremony. It was clear to all of the Jewish people, that they were expected to abide by the dictates of the Torah.

The Midrash Tanchuma adds a strange comment by saying that just as the blessings were recited in a loud voice (בכל רם), the curses were likewise to be recited in a loud voice.

The explanation of this statement was to teach a lesson in human nature. When it comes to giving praise to an individual, it is done loudly and openly. When it comes to rebuke, it is generally done quietly, in order not to embarrass that person.

The message here is that bad behavior and acting in an improper way, sometimes needs to be “shouted out.” People need to be clear that there is a definite right and wrong in this world. This needs to be made clear so that there is no condoning or accepting evil. When something is wrong or against the Torah, it must be explained loud and clear so that there is no confusion.

This was the ceremony at these two mountains. It was a clear clarification of what is good and holy in this world, and what is not.

Making the Right Choices

Moshe Rabbeinu presents a simple option to the Jewish people. There are two paths that a person can take. He can choose the blessing or the curse.

The blessing is to listen to the voice of G-d. The curse comes from not listening to the voice of G-d.

It almost sounds too good to be true. All that is necessary in this world to find peace and happiness is to cleave to Hashem. Blessings will flow from such a choice. Curses will come to the one who abandons Hashem and the Torah.

I have just completed a visit to Los Angeles. It is interesting to observe the general population and the religious community, in particular.

The impression that I had is that people are lost and are seeking direction. The secular and non-Jewish are thirsting for some meaning and spirituality. The religious are confused because they are no

longer able to feel that they have it all, because of the undercurrent of anti-Semitism. Despite their fulfillment of the rituals, something is missing.

All of this was predicted by the Prophet Amos. “Behold days are coming when there will be a famine in the land. It will not be a famine of bread and water. But it will be a longing to hear the word of Hashem.”

The period of godlessness in the world, is now over. There is a realization that secularism is not providing any lasting meaning. The quest to do “whatever makes you feel good” is not working. Fighting racism or global warming does not provide any real meaning or contentment.

People need to make the simple choice as clarified by Moshe Rabbeinu. Choose the blessing over the curse. Choose life over a life of emptiness. Choose the Torah and its commandments over meaningless pursuits and the curse that comes with them

Mitzvot Just For Practice

One of the themes of the Book of Devarim is that the Mitzvot were meant to be observed in the Land. On numerous occasions, we find this reference that the word, בארץ, “in the land,” is mentioned over and over again.

The Sifrei makes this point so strongly that he writes that the only reason the Mitzvot are observed outside of Eretz Yisrael, is for practice. “Be excellent in the observance of Mitzvot, that they should serve as markers for you to find your way back.”

This is similar to someone on a long hike. He makes markers along the way, so that he will be able to retrace his steps, and be able to return to his original destination.

The same is true of the Torah. The original destination is Israel. This is the intended location where Mitzvot are observed. It is unnatural for a Jew to be outside of his natural domain.

One must also take into account that there are numerous commandments that can only be observed in the Land of Israel.

Some say that this was the main reason that Moshe Rabbeinu longed to enter Eretz Yisrael. He did not wish to be deprived of the possibility of observing the entire Torah.

We need to get back to the basic principles of Judaism. One of these principles is the central role that Eretz Yisrael plays in Jewish life. The three pillars of Am Yisrael, Torah Yisrael, and Eretz Yisrael, work hand in hand. This is why Mitzvot outside of Israel are just for practice.

Human Nature

The Rabbis teach us that human nature is such that many points that should be obvious, are not. Therefore, they must be repeated over and over again, so that the obvious is not forgotten.

An example of what should be obvious is a statement made by the Rabbis that says, אין אדם מורד בהקב״ה אלא מתוך שביעה, “An individual only rebels against Hashem, when he is filled up.”

This means that the most likely time that a person will forget G-d, is when he feels that he has all of the material pleasure that he needs. Since everything is going so well, he foolishly believes that this abundance comes from the work of his hands. He has no need to pray or rely on Hashem, for he doesn’t need Him.

One must avoid this pitfall and not be one who only turns to G-d in time of need. Such a person will have a more difficult time finding favor in the Al-mighty. He will have to rectify the situation of the times when he abandoned Him.

We are witnessing this situation in the Diaspora today. The global rise of anti-Semitism, is removing that sense of complacency and smugness that has existed for many decades. Many Jews “went through the motions” of religious observance, but felt much too comfortable and sure of themselves. They had plenty of money, beautiful houses and cars, and all of the comforts that one could only dream of.

Now, reality has set in. The “welcome mat” for Jews in many countries of the world, is not as welcoming as before. Jews are learning the hard way that this false sense of security, is truly false. Now that the smugness and complacency is removed, Jews will this obvious lesson, and realize that we have no choice but to rely on the G-d of Israel.

Human Nature

The Rabbis teach us that human nature is such that many points that should be obvious, are not. Therefore, they must be repeated over and over again, so that the obvious is not forgotten.

An example of what should be obvious is a statement made by the Rabbis that says, אין אדם מורד בהקב״ה אלא מתוך שביעה, “An individual only rebels against Hashem, when he is filled up.”

This means that the most likely time that a person will forget G-d, is when he feels that he has all of the material pleasure that he needs. Since everything is going so well, he foolishly believes that this abundance comes from the work of his hands. He has no need to pray or rely on Hashem, for he doesn’t need Him.

One must avoid this pitfall and not be one who only turns to G-d in time of need. Such a person will have a more difficult time finding favor in the Al-mighty. He will have to rectify the situation of the times when he abandoned Him.

We are witnessing this situation in the Diaspora today. The global rise of anti-Semitism, is removing that sense of complacency and smugness that has existed for many decades. Many Jews “went through the motions” of religious observance, but felt much too comfortable and sure of themselves. They had plenty of money, beautiful houses and cars, and all of the comforts that one could only dream of.

Now, reality has set in. The “welcome mat” for Jews in many countries of the world, is not as welcoming as before. Jews are learning the hard way that this false sense of security, is truly false. Now that the smugness and complacency is removed, Jews will this obvious lesson, and realize that we have no choice but to rely on the G-d of Israel.

Fear G-d and Not Man

In Moshe Rabbeinu’s final talk to the Jewish people, he addresses the potential problem of being overwhelmed by the mighty nations surrounding Israel.

He tells them that if they ever feel that they are not capable of subduing these nations, they must be reminded not to be afraid. Hashem is in their midst, the great and awesome G-d.

On this point, the “Duties of the Heart, makes an interesting observation. When it comes to the obligation to love Hashem, this love is not diminished, when man shows love towards his fellow man.

This is not the case in connection with fearing G-d. If this individual fears man as well, it is a sign that he really does not have fear of G-d.

If one possesses true fear of Hashem, he will not be capable of fearing one of His creations. This is why Moshe tells the nation not to be afraid of their potential enemies. If their fear of Hashem is intact, they will be certain of His protection. There will be the realization that no force on earth is capable of threatening the G-d of Israel.

If we give in to fear, it is a sign that we need to strengthen our יראת שמים, fear of Heaven. If that fear is strong, then sirens, and threats from our enemies will not move us. We will feel confident of this Divine protection.

This is especially true for us, when we have witnessed so many blatant miracles. There should be no doubt that Hashem is fighting our battle, and we have nothing to fear at all.

No Diseases of Egypt

The Vilna Gaon has an interesting explanation as to why the Passover Hagaddah bothers to tell us of a three way argument regarding the number of plagues that smote the Egyptians. There were opinions of fifty, 200, and even 250.

His answer is related to the promise made by Moshe Rabbeinu. He told the people that all of the diseases of Egypt, (מדוי מצרים) will not be placed on you. All that needs to be done is to diligently observe the commandments.

The point of the Gaon was that if more diseases were delineated, the less the chance, that these same diseases would befall the Jewish people.

As long as they followed the Torah, none of the two hundred and fifty Egyptian diseases would smite. This would minimize the potential for sickness among the Jewish people.

The Torah has previously mentioned that Egypt was the most decadent place on earth. Not only was it filled with physical diseases, but it was equally plagued with moral disease. The Rabbis were hinting to the fact that it was their hope that none of the moral or physical diseases of Egypt, would ever fall on the Jewish people.

We live in a world of moral depravity as well as one of numerous diseases. The Jewish people must build an immunity to all of this, and stay on the path designated for them by the Torah.

No Spirituality-No Joy

Parshat Eikev has a very strong warning for the Jewish people that applies for all time.

When Moshe Rabbeinu recites the famous line, “Man does not live by bread alone,” he wants the people to understand a very real aspect of human nature.

If a person chooses to live a life devoid of spirituality, he will suffer in the end. The pursuit of materialism and comfort, will not give any permanent sense of satisfaction. Physical pleasures are temporary and do not last.

The makeup of a Jew consists of a body and soul. The body is temporary and the soul is eternal. When one satisfies the temporary aspect of his being, the joy will similarly, be temporary.

If the satisfaction of the soul is not part of this joy, it will leave that individual with a sense of emptiness. Something will be missing that will prevent that lasting feeling of contentment.

This is what Moshe meant when he said that, “Man does not live by bread alone.” The bread represents the physical, material world. That alone is not enough. Man will truly live when he is connected to Hashem and his spiritual side.

Many may be in denial of this basic truth. Eventually, things will catch up with him when he recognizes this void. Hopefully, this can be recognized before it’s too late. This recognition is what brings meaning to a person’s life. No longer will he be living a life of futility. Now his life will have meaning, and he can now experience a real sense of peace of mind and contentment.

Two Aspects of Shabbat

The Ten Commandments are mentioned twice in the Torah. There are slight differences in the text each time they are mentioned.

This is most pronounced regarding the laws related to Shabbat. In the first instance, we are commanded to, Remember (זכור) the Sabbath day to keep it holy.” In the second instance we are to, “Observe (שמור) the Sabbath day to keep it holy.”

A more pronounced difference between the two references of Shabbat comes from the reasons given as to why we must observe and cherish this day.

In Shemot, the reason given is that if G-d, who needs no rest, but, nevertheless, rested on the Seventh day, then we, as humans, desperately need rest, should certainly refrain from doing work or constructive activities on the Seventh day.

It is essential that we take pause one day a week and recharge the batteries in a day of spirituality. This allows us to better cope with life’s challenges.

The second reason for Shabbat is to remind us that Hashem took us out of Egypt in order to make us free men. The ability to stop for a twenty-four hour period, and disconnect from the technological world, shows that we are indeed free. We do not answer the phone, text, or check our e-mails. We do not work on this day and do our normal daily activities.

The ability to do this, shows that we are truly free. The inability to do this shows that we are slaves to this material world, and are not really free.

These two messages of Shabbat ring loud and clear for all time. Very simply, we need rest to function, and we need to be totally free.

Prophecy and Graven Images

Moshe Rabbeinu felt it necessary to clarify an important aspect of prophecy as it relates to our perception of Hashem. He does not want there to be any confusion with as it relates to G-d not having any physical form.

Moshe focused on the Revelation at Mount Sinai. He reminds the people that they did not see a physical form of G-d while in a conscious state. This implies that it is possible to have such a perception in a non-conscious state. This takes place when one is transformed to a state of prophecy. This actually occurred at Mount Sinai and it occurred seven weeks before during the splitting of the Red Sea.

In both instances, the nation was elevated to a prophetic state. At Mount Sinai, they saw G-d as a saintly sage with a long white beard. And at the Red Sea, they saw Him as a brave warrior.

It is important to understand this distinction, so that one not be dragged into confusion about G-d. The basic principle that G-d has no physical form is etched in stone. Such a belief would minimize the infinite nature of Hashem. He has no limits and cannot be confined to a body.

Prophecy lasted for 1000 years and no longer exists today. It is difficult for us to even comprehend what prophecy really was. We believe it will return in Messianic times. In the meantime, it is our duty to connect with the living G-d who has no physical form. This is enough of a task that should be the main priority of our lives.

Messianic Times-Closer Than You Think

There is a Mishna in Masechet Megilla that describes the beginning of the Messianic period. It says that, “There is no difference between this world and the days of Mashiach, except for שעבוד מלכיות, subservience to other nations.”

This is explained to mean that the Jewish people will no longer be threatened or attacked by any other people. It means that there will be absolute security for the people of Israel, in the Land of Israel. This period will be followed by other wonderful changes of peace and prosperity for the Jewish people.

During these turbulent times, things tend to be very troublesome without a clear picture of how all of this will play out.

If we gain enough clarity to see the Hand of G-d in a blatant manner since October the Seventh, we will realize that we are closer and closer to seeing a fulfillment of that statement of the Mishna.

We are witnessing the fall of our enemies, one by one. Iran, Lebanon and Hizballah, Syria, and Hamas, are all incredibly weaker in a relatively short period of time. With Hashem’s help, we will see these threats crippled entirely.

We must not lose faith and our optimism despite all of the difficulties that have come our way. We have never been closer to this first stage of the coming of Messianic times. If we stay strong and open our eyes, we will realize that these times are much closer than we realize.

We Must Not Forget

The Torah makes it a prohibition to forget the events of Mount Sinai. Moshe Rabbeinu gives a strong admonishment that they must remember that great day of Revelation.

He also reminds them that they never saw a physical image of G-d, for he has no form. There is a reference here to the state of prophecy they were experiencing. There is a big difference between what is seen in conscious state and a prophetic state.

Many prayer books list “six remembrances” that we are to recite each day. We are to remember our exodus from Egypt, the attack by Amalek against us, the rebelliousness of the Jewish people in the desert, Miriam’s sin against Moshe, and remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy.

We see how important it is that we not stray from the main events of our history. We have a definite destiny that is unique to our people. We need to appreciate the special role that we have.

We are not meant to copy the ways of the other nations. We are meant to lead and not follow. Remembering the important events of our history, will help keep us focused on our priorities for the present.

This is why we are commanded to mention the exodus from Egypt twice daily. This was when we began as a nation, and Hashem revealed Himself in an open manner.

No religion can compare in its origin. One nation taken out of the midst of another nation with signs and wonders. And seven weeks later, every Jew heard G-d speak the first two of the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai.

We can understand why Moshe Rabbeinu placed so much of an emphasis on remembering. Forgetfulness of what is crucially important has proven to have devastating results on our people. This must not be repeated. “Never again,” means not forgetting.

Admiration for Israel

Moshe Rabbeinu’s final addresses gave an assessment as to how the nations of the world will view the Jewish people. There is a certain inevitability in his words.

Israel will constantly be scrutinized by the nations of the world. As difficult as it might be for them, they will eventually acknowledge the uniqueness of the Jewish people. It is the laws of the Torah that will set us apart from the rest of the world.

They will realize that only a “wise and understanding nation,” are capable of living by such a disciplined and holy life, according to a just set of laws.

This realization is known to the whole world. Some will choose to admire us, because of this, while others will choose hatred and wish that we would not exist.

We are witnessing all of this today. The admiration manifests itself by the mass wave of conversion to Judaism. The hatred shows its ugly face with illogical and vicious Jew hatred throughout the world.

In the end, the haters will either perish or also acknowledge the truth of Judaism. But the truth always becomes clear.

There is an amazing process unfolding, where, on one level, Israel is already the admiration of the world. But those who are in denial of this truth are demonstrating ignorance and foolishness that will be exposed.

The ugliness is meant to come as a wake up call to all Jews around the world. The Galut, the exile, is coming to an end. Jews are no longer welcome anywhere in the world, except for Israel.

All of this was predicted in the Torah and is happening right before our eyes. We are getting closer and closer to see a fulfillment of Moshe Rabbeinu’s final address. “Only a wise and understanding nation is capable of having such rules and statutes.” The world will admire and acknowledge Hashem, the Torah, and the people of Israel.

Matrilineal Descent

Matrilineal descent is learned indirectly from the verse that follows the commandment not to marry a non-Jew. This is based on the Talmud in Masechet Kiddushin.

The wording of the Torah is not clear and needs explanation. The Torah speaks of a situation when, “Your son will be removed from Me, and will worship false gods.”

Rashi explains that this verse is speaking to the grandfather, the father of the son who has turned away from Hashem. The proximity of this verse to intermarriage implies that the son has turned away to such an extent that he has married a forbidden woman.

The result of this marriage might be that she gives birth to a boy. This grandson is not your son, but is considered her son.

The Torah did not speak of a case where your daughter turns away and worships idols, because the son that she might bear, is considered her son, and your grandson.

It would seem to be a lot easier if this was explained more openly, but this is the tradition that began with Moshe Rabbeinu, and is known as Halacha Le’Moshe Mi’Sinai.

This term, “Halacha Le’Moshe Mi’Sinai,” means that it is a rule that is etched in stone. It came as instructions directly from Hashem to Moshe. We have no authority to question laws of this category, just as we are not allowed to question G-d. Laws of matrilineal descent fall into this category.

No More Complacency

Jewish History has taught us that every place that Jews lived outside of Israel, ended up with three painful results. We were either expelled from that place, or we assimilated and abandoned Judaism, or we suffered extermination, G-d forbid. This has been a reality from which there is no escaping.

We have been blessed to be able to live in Israel for the past forty-two years. I was the founding rabbi of Young Israel of Century City in Los Angeles.

Over the years, I have remained in contact with numerous friends and family, and visited the States fairly regularly.

To be honest, I always left these visits with a very bad feeling. Jews seemed so smug and complacent that they had it all. I felt that they even felt a certain superiority over their struggling Jewish brethren. I did not enjoy praying in synagogues in America, and kosher restaurants annoyed me, seeing Jews that clearly had their priorities out of whack.

During my current visit to the States, I see that all of that has changed. Synagogues in Los Angeles have removed their Jewish symbols to protect themselves from vandalism. All of them either have security guards or codes in order to enter.

There is actual respect and admiration for the Jews living in Israel. The anti Jewish sentiment in America is very real and very worrying.

It is likely that October the Seventh changed the Jewish world dramatically. There is a strong revival of religious observance and Jewish identity has never been stronger.

There is no question that Hashem has a plan, and is running the show. Truth wins in the end and we are witnessing a serious Jewish wake up call.

That false sense of security that materialism and ostentatiousness once brought, is being exposed for its lack of substance.

The truth of G-d and the Torah is becoming more and more clear. But the miracle of Israel and the welcoming arm of its inhabitants to Jews all over the world, should give great comfort.

Unlike our past exile, that did not end well anywhere, a happy ending awaits all Jews if they would only open their eyes and come settle in the eternal home of the Jewish people.

No Fear of Man

When Moshe Rabbeinu reflected on his years of leadership of the Jewish people, he recounted the difficulty of his task. At one point, he pleaded with Hashem that it was not a task that he could do alone.

His request was granted when a judicial system was put into play. There would be higher and lower courts, who would judge various cases. The great Sanhedrin would have the final word in every instance.

Moshe again mentioned the qualifications to be a judge in Israel. He should be a person of prominence, who is not easily swayed. He will not take bribes, and he will actively pursue justice.

Moshe added another quality that was needed to serve as a judge in Israel. The Torah uses the words. לא תגורו מפני איש, that one must not be afraid of any man.

This idea was pointed out by the great, Rabbi Yochanan Ben Zakai, as he summoned his students to his death bed after his one hundred and twentieth birthday.

The students were surprised to hear his simple advice to fear G-d as much as they feared man. They asked the sacred rabbi, “Is that all?” He replied that this is much more than you think. If they could live by this advice, it would be a great thing.

If one truly has faith in Hashem, he will not allow himself to be intimidated or bullied by others. This is particularly true of judges in a court room setting.

They might receive threats from the litigants that might seem to be very real. They must know that if they stand strong and do not falter in their judgement, Hashem will be with them.

The charge of not fearing any man was earmarked for Jewish judges. Nevertheless, this advice applies to everyone. We are to be strong in our convictions, and not be afraid to verbalize them.

Fearing what others think of us, will prevent us from doing what is right. Giving into fear, puts us in a very precarious state. It takes away our confidence and our ability to achieve. It encourages negativity, and ultimately, failure.

We must heed the advice of Moshe Rabbeinu, who also lived to 120, as Rabbi Yochanan Ben Zakai did. We must not be afraid of any man.