LIVING WITH MOSHIACH, Parshat Pinchas B"H LIVING WITH MOSHIACH Weekly Digest About Moshiach PARSHAT PINCHAS 5770 20 Tamuz, 5770 July 2, 2010 SPECIAL FEATURES: 1. A "Zalman Moment" 2. Laws of the Bais HaMikdosh (The Holy Temple) ************************************************* * This week's issue is sponsored in part by: * * Holy Sparks - "http://www.holysparks.org" * * * * * Your premiere site for Jewish spirituality. * * * * * 5,770 Years of the Most Amazing Jewish Wisdom * * recorded in calligraphy, especially for you! * * * * * Explore your potential: * * Jewish Books, Art & Wisdom For Our Time. * * FREE art! * ************************************************* >> A Jewish Response To Terrorism << http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5762/269.htm *************************************************** * Visit TruePeace.org * * "http://www.truepeace.org" * * Dedicated to educating the public regarding the * * current situation in Israel, based on Torah * * sources, with special emphasis on the opinion * * and teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe * *************************************************** Published Weekly By Lubavitch Shluchim Conferences On The Moshiach Campaign, Committee For The Blind * * * 5770 "Year of Faratzta" **************************************************** * VISIT US ON THE WEB, AT: * * http://www.torah4blind.org * **************************************************** * TO RECEIVE THIS PUBLICATION VIA INTERNET: * * E-Mail: info@torah4blind.org * * or: * * http://www.torah4blind.org/subs.htm * **************************************************** * OPERATION REFUAH: * * http://www.operationrefuah.org * **************************************************** * JEWISH CHILDREN: * * Get your own letter in a Sefer Torah! * * http://www.kidstorah.org * **************************************************** * Kids! We Want YOU To Join * * Tzivos Hashem (The Army of G-d) * * http://www.torah4blind.org/tzivos-h.htm * **************************************************** * MOSHIACH - CHILDREN'S PAGE * * http://www.torah4blind.org/children/index.htm * **************************************************** * THE SEVEN UNIVERSAL LAWS OF NOAH: * * http://www.torah4blind.org/noahide.htm * **************************************************** THIS PUBLICATION IS DEDICATED TO THE REBBE, RABBI MENACHEM M. SCHNEERSON OF LUBAVITCH "I BELIEVE WITH COMPLETE FAITH IN THE ARRIVAL OF THE MOSHIACH. "AND THOUGH HE MAY TARRY, I SHALL WAIT EACH DAY, ANTICIPATING HIS ARRIVAL." Maimonides, Principles of the Faith, No. 12 ********************* * TABLE OF CONTENTS * ********************* * Introduction. * The Weekly Torah Portion. * The Rebbe's Prophecy. * Exile Is But A Dream. * A "Zalman Moment" * Don't Give Me Your Attitude. * Moshiach Matters. * The Seventeenth of Tamuz. * The "Three Weeks" * Some Laws of the "Three Weeks" * A Lesson From the "Three Weeks" * Laws of the Holy Temple. * Time for Unity; Time for Strength! * A Call To Action. * The Weekly Shabbat Calendar. * "Let There Be Light" - The Jewish Women's Guide to Lighting Shabbat Candles. * Laws of Shabbat Candle Lighting for the Blind. * Shabbat Candle Lighting Blessing. * Moshiach Information Hotlines. * Moshiach In The Air -- Electronic Media. * Subscription Information for this Weekly Magazine: Living With Moshiach. **************** * INTRODUCTION * **************** We are pleased to present, to the visually impaired and the blind, the 675-681st issue of our weekly publication, Living With Moshiach. * This week's issue of Living With Moshiach is dedicated in honor of: 1. The 4th yahrtzeit of my dear and loving father, Horav Schneur Zalman Halevi ben Horav Yitzchok Elchonon Halevi Shagalov, who passed away on Monday, 21 Tamuz, 5766 (July 17, 2006). A web-site has been established in his loving memory, at: "http://www.torah4blind.org/rzs" A Tribute is published below. 2. The 7th yahrtzeit of our dear friend and copy editor, Reb Mordechai ben Reb Shaul Staiman, who passed away, on Tuesday, 22 Tamuz, 5763 (July 22, 2003). Reb Mordechai Staiman was a very kind person, who gave tirelessly from his time and effort for the success of our organization "Enlightenment For The Blind," and this publication "Living With Moshiach" in particular. A web-site has been established in his loving memory and also featuring the works of Reb Mordechai Staiman. You can find it at: "http://www.torah4blind.org/staiman" A Tribute is printed in Living With Moshiach, Vol. 438: "http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5765/429-438.htm" * In this week's issue, we focus on the fast day of the 17th of Tamuz, Tuesday, June, 29. * Our sincere appreciation to L'Chaim weekly publication, published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, for allowing us to use their material. Also, many thanks to our copy editor, Reb Mordechai Staiman, of blessed memory ("http://www.torah4blind.org/staiman"), for his tireless efforts. * It is our fervent hope that our learning about Moshiach and the Redemption will hasten the coming of Moshiach, NOW! Rabbi Yosef Y. Shagalov Executive Director Enlightenment For The Blind, Inc. E-Mail:yys@torah4blind.org 15 Tamuz, 5770 Year of Faratzta Los Angeles, California ************************************************* * IN LOVING MEMORY OF * * Horav Schneur Zalman Halevi * * ben Horav Yitzchok Elchonon Halevi * * Shagalov * * Passed away on 21 Tamuz, 5766 * * * * Reb Dovid Asniel ben Reb Eliyahu * * Ekman * * Passed away on 5 Sivan - Erev Shavuot, 5765 * * * * Mrs. Devora Rivka bas Reb Yosef Eliezer * * Marenburg * * Passed away on the second day * * of Rosh Chodesh Adar, 5766 * * * * Reb Yitzchok Moshe (Ian) ben Reb Dovid Asniel * * Ekman (Santiago, Chile) * * Passed away on 24 Shevat, 5769 * * * * May Their Souls Merit Eternal Life * * * * AND IN HONOR OF * * Mrs. Esther Shaindel bas Fraidel Chedva * * Shagalov * * * * * Dedicated by * * Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Yitzchok and Gittel Rochel * * Shagalov * ************************************************* *************************************** * THE WEEKLY TORAH PORTION * * Adapted from the Works of the Rebbe * *************************************** PARSHAT PINCHAS This week's Torah portion is Parshat Pinchas. In it we read about Pinchas, who in a burst of zealousness slew Zimri and the Midianite woman with whom Zimri was consorting. The Talmud speaks of "six miracles that were done to him [Pinchas]"; other sources refer to 12. It states in the Talmud, "He who sees Pinchas in a dream will experience a wonder," upon which Rashi comments, "A wonder will be done to him, as was done to Pinchas." It is significant that our Sages use the word "wonder" rather than "miracle," as the two terms are not quite synonymous: A miracle means that the laws of nature are broken and transcended. The "regular" structure of the universe is altered, and a miracle occurs. However, the fact that natural law needs to be superceded implies that "nature" possesses some sort of influence or significance. A wonder, by contrast, is entirely above nature; the very concept of nature is meaningless. Indeed, this demonstrates the greatness of Pinchas: The miracles associated with him were not merely a succession of supernatural events, each one of which had to rise above the existing universal order. Rather, what Pinchas experienced could more accurately be described as one big, uninterrupted wonder that bypassed nature entirely. The reason G-d acted toward Pinchas in a "wondrous" manner was that Pinchas' Divine service was similarly "wondrous." In effect, G-d was merely responding to Pinchas measure for measure. In terms of Divine service, both "miracles" and "wonders" imply self-sacrifice. However, self-sacrifice can exist on two levels: On the lower level ("miracle"), the Jew serves G-d in the usual manner. If self-sacrifice should ever become necessary, he will rise to the occasion. On the higher level ("wonder"), the ENTIRETY of the person's Divine service is carried out in a super-natural manner of self-sacrifice. The Jew gives his will over to G-d so completely that all of his actions are a reflection of self-sacrifice. Pinchas was the embodiment of the level of "wonder." His very essence was self-sacrifice for G-d, which is why he endangered himself for a matter that was not strictly required by the letter of the law. Because his entire being was self-sacrifice, he did not ask any questions and acted in a zealous manner. Indeed, the practical directive to be derived from Pinchas is as follows: Every Jew must strive for this essential self-sacrifice, strengthening Jewish observance and disseminating Torah and mitzvot with selfless devotion, ignoring ostensible obstacles and giving oneself over to G-d wholeheartedly. G-d will then respond in kind, enabling us to serve Him in a manner of "wonder," and we will successfully bring about the Final Redemption. ******************************************************* * IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR FRIEND AND COPY EDITOR * * Reb Mordechai ben Reb Shaul * * Staiman * * Passed away on 22 Tamuz, 5763 * ******************************************************* ************************ * THE REBBE'S PROPHECY * ************************ The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson of Lubavitch, issued a call that "THE TIME OF OUR REDEMPTION HAS ARRIVED!" and "MOSHIACH IS ON HIS WAY!" The Rebbe stressed that he is saying this AS A PROPHECY, and asks us all to prepare ourselves for the Redemption, through increasing acts of goodness and kindness. LET US ALL HEED THE REBBE'S CALL. _______________ See "Living With Moshiach" Vol 593: http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5768/593.txt ********************************************* * IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR GRANDPARENTS,* * * * Reb Shmuel Pesach Ben Reb Yaakov Dovid * * Passed away on 3 Tishrei, 5755 * * * * Mrs. Fraidel Chedvah Bas Reb Zev Wolf * * Passed away on 4 Adar II, 5755 * * Pais * * * * Dedicated by their grandchildren * * Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Y. and Gittel Rochel * * Shagalov * ********************************************* ************************ * EXILE IS BUT A DREAM * ************************ On Shabbat Parshat Pinchas, 5744/1984, the Rebbe spoke in a relatively unusual manner about his persistence and insistence on continuously discussing the coming of Moshiach. Following are translated excerpts from that talk: "Some people wonder: How can a person appear in public, week after week, and repeatedly speak on one subject -- the coming of Moshiach? "Furthermore, that person always stresses that he is not just speaking of the concept, but of the actual coming of Moshiach, here on this physical earth, and immediately, this very day. On each occasion he instructs those gathered to sing 'May the Holy Temple be rebuilt speedily in our days,' emphasizing that 'speedily in our days' should not be understood as 'speedily, tomorrow,' but as 'speedily, today'! "Certainly, every Jew believes that Moshiach can come at any moment -- after all, 'I await his coming every day' is one of the fundamental principles of Judaism. Still, they wonder, to believe that Moshiach will come at this very moment is hardly consistent with the reality of our lives. So why does this man speak incessantly about it, on every occasion, and with such single-minded intensity, as if to force the idea into the minds of his listeners? "Their conclusion is that all this is a nice dream, nice, but not very realistic. So what is the point of speaking so much about one's dreams? "Chasidic philosophy explains that our current state of exile is like a dream; in a dream one's sense of perception can tolerate the most contradictory and irrational things. "In other words, our current 'reality' is a dream, while the world of Moshiach is the true reality. In a single moment, we can all wake up from the dream of exile and open our eyes to the true reality of our existence -- the perfect world of Moshiach. Everyone present in this room can immediately awaken himself from his dream, so that today, Shabbat Parshat Pinchas, 5744, before we even say the afternoon prayers, in fact this very moment, we all open our eyes and see Moshiach, in the flesh, with us, here in this room." May the Rebbe's words of 26 years ago, and his prophetic promise of 19 years ago, that "the time of our Redemption has arrived," be fulfilled Now! ************************************ * A "ZALMAN MOMENT" [1] * * A Tribute to Rabbi Shneur Zalman * * HaLevi Shagalov, o.b.m. * ************************************ In honor of his 4th yahrtzeit, Shabbat Parshat Pinchas, 21 Tamuz, 5770 (July 3, 2010) by Gitel Rochel Shagalov [2] Shabbat Parshat Pinchas, 21 Tamuz, 5770 (July 3, 2010), marks the 4th yartzeit of my father-in-law, Rabbi Shneur Zalman HaLevi Shagalov. Self-sacrifice for Reb Zalman, as he was affectionately known, was a way of life. In 1937, when he was only five years old, the Communist regime arrested and executed his father, Rabbi Yitzchok Elchonon HaLevi Shagalov [3] for his "anti-government" actions of teaching Torah to Jewish children and for being a mohel (ritual circumciser) and shochet (ritual slaughterer). His widow, Rebbetzin Maryashe Garelik Shagalov, [4] who passed away 3 years ago at age 106, continued to raise Reb Zalman and his five siblings alone, with a strong Chasidic upbringing under the most difficult conditions. Throughout his life, Reb Zalman was actively devoted to helping Jewish refugees from the Former Soviet Union and was personally responsible for thousands of children and adults undergoing brit mila (circumcision). Till the last day of his life, Reb Zalman continued to help Russian immigrants, whether it was shoes, pots and pans to make a kosher kitchen, a family's rent, enrolling the children in Jewish schools, making peace between husband and wife, or a warm smile and encouragement. If food or clothing was needed for families who were too embarrassed to go themselves to receive a public donation, Reb Zalman would stand in line for them for as long as necessary. He did everything in a quiet way without making a big fuss. Reb Zalman is best known for his warm smile and his tremendous love of his fellow Jew, which he did with the utmost genuine humility and simplicity. He always greeted everyone he met, Jew and non-Jew, with a smile and loving concern. During shiva (week of mourning), many people said that they felt they had lost their best friend. Even the UPS driver came upstairs with tears in his eyes, telling us that the night before, every time he tried to fall asleep, he saw Reb Zalman's face and smile and he missed him very much. He recalled the previous winter when Reb Zalman at age 74 offered to help him push his UPS truck when it got stuck in the snow. Shortly before he passed away, while walking to shul, Reb Zalman spotted a young man who had grown up in a religious home but who had become disconnected from the Torah way of life. He called the boy's name and waved for him to come over to him. The boy waved back saying, "Old man, if you want to talk to me, you can come over here." Reb Zalman crossed the street with a warm smile and put his arms around the boy, gave him a big kiss, and lovingly told him, "You could be my son!" The boy came to Reb Zalman's funeral wearing a yarmulke (skull-cap) on his head, something he had not done for a long time, and told the family that Reb Zalman's hug and kiss had put him back on the Torah path. When Reb Zalman's five-year-old granddaughter, Michal was asked what she missed most about her grandfather, she summed it up for all who knew him when she said, "The way he loves me!" One day during the shiva I was in the grocery store. As I waited in line, ahead of me were two young brothers who were buying groceries for their family. Their groceries cost $42.86, but as the boys only had $40, they asked the cashier to put $2.86 on their family's credit account. The cashier said, "I can't put any money on this account because it's already over the limit." The boys pleaded with her but the cashier, who was new, just repeated, "I can't do it. Your account is over the limit!" Finally she called the manager over and he extended the family's credit. I paid for my groceries and left the store thoughtfully. I knew that I had just missed an important moment, what we now call, "The Zalman Moment." I was wrapped up in my own little world while I was waiting in line, but as I left the store, I realized that if Reb Zalman had been standing where I was standing, he would have tuned into the moment of their need and quietly paid the cashier the amount that they were short, without any fuss. I felt so bad about missing that "Zalman Moment," that I decided to return to the store. I spoke to the manager and told him that I wanted to put money on the family's account so that they would no longer be over the limit. The manager looked at me strangely for a moment and then his face lit up. He said, "No, you don't understand. The family doesn't have trouble paying the bill; they were just out of town and haven't had a chance to come in and take care of it and my cashier who is new didn't know what to do. May you merit to do more mitzvot!" As I returned home with the groceries, I had another "Zalman Moment." I passed by one of the ladies on the corner who asks for charity. Instead of just handing her a quarter and rushing on, I paused and held her hand for a moment as I gave her the coin and a blessing. Tears came to her eyes and a big smile as she blessed me also. When I came into the house, I told the family about my "Zalman Moments" -- how my perception was starting to change and deepen as I look at the world the way that I imagine Zalman sees it -- looking outward at other's pain and then doing something to lessen their pain. Our daughter Chaya Sara left for California soon after that, and she called us from the airport all excited. "I just had a Zalman Moment!" she said, "I was paying for something in one of the airport shops. When the cashier routinely said, 'Hi, how are you today?' I answered her, 'I'm fine. How are you?' and then I waited for her to answer. Her face lit up with the biggest smile as she realized somebody really wanted to know about her day." _______________ 1. If after reading this, you, too, have a "Zalman Moment," please share it with us at: yys@torah4blind.org 2. Gitel Rochel (Rae Ekman) Shagalov can be reached via her website, "http://www.holysparks.org" 3. A story of a famous incident in his life, "Court Case in Gomel" is printed in Living With Moshiach Issue 460: "http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5766/459-460.htm" 4. A story of her bitachon -- trust and faith in G-d, is printed in Living With Moshiach Issue 514: "http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5767/502-514.htm" ******************************* * DON'T GIVE ME YOUR ATTITUDE * ******************************* Surely you've seen the t-shirts and pins stating, "I don't need your attitude, I have one of my own." Most likely, the person wearing this message is tired of being confronted by people with negative, angry attitudes, whether a fellow commuter on mass transit, a cashier at the supermarket, or a customer service representative for a local utility company. People with attitudes seem cold as ice, but if you've ever tried saying a few caring words, you were probably surprised to see the frosty exterior melt like a popsicle on a 100 degree day. "You look like you've had a really hard day" will often get you a sigh of appreciation and a peek under the veil of indifference and anger. But why should we put ourselves out and be compassionate toward a surly person? Because, in these last few moments of life as we know it here in this imperfect world, we can practice honing our interpersonal skills. Kindness, compassion, and consideration are what our attitudes will be all about in the times of Moshiach. In the Messianic Era, the inherent goodness and G-dliness that everything contains, will be revealed. We can help reveal that latent quality even now by making sure our Attitudes are caring toward our fellow human beings. Even if their Attitudes make them seem despicable and unworthy of compassion, we should respect them simply because they are G-d's creatures, and if G-d tolerates them, we should, too. Sometimes, displaying a Moshiach Attitude takes no time at all. Like when you flash a smile at someone as you pass him or her on the sidewalk, or when you say a heartfelt "thank you" as you're given your change. At other times it might take a moment, but not much more, to let your Moshiach Attitude shine through: Letting someone with one item go ahead of you in the supermarket line; helping a little old lady cross the street (yes, there are still little old ladies who need help crossing the street!); calling a parent or sibling to say, "I was thinking of you," not cutting someone off in traffic just to get to your destination 30 seconds earlier. But those moments are timeless and well spent. Practicing a Moshiach Attitude now is a sure way to get ready for and actually hastens the perfect world we've always dreamed of. ******************** * MOSHIACH MATTERS * ******************** A Chasid once asked Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the third Rebbe of Chabad-Lubavitch, known as the Tzemach Tzedek, whether he should settle in the land of Israel. There he would devote his life to Torah study and mitzvah observance. The Tzemach Tzedek replied, "Make the place where you are into the Holy Land." What does that response mean? To answer, we must first understand what is Eretz Yisrael, the Holy Land. The Holy Land is a place where G-dliness, holiness and Judaism are openly revealed. In an ultimate sense, this will be realized in the Messianic era when the third Holy Temple will be rebuilt and the observance of all the commandments associated with holiness of the land will be restored. This is the essence of the Messianic Era. The relationship between man and G-d will no longer be based on faith alone, but will also be nourished by a first-hand awareness of G-d's Presence here on earth. The physical setting of the world will not change in the era of Redemption. What will be different is our knowledge and awareness of G-d. The directive "Make this place the Holy Land" means that every individual should and can draw G-dliness into his life and into his environment. Each of us should know that one's "place," that is, each dimension of our environment and each moment of time we experience can be transformed into the Holy Land, into a place where G-dliness is openly revealed. **************************** * THE SEVENTEENTH OF TAMUZ * **************************** Tuesday, 17th of Tamuz, June 29, is a fast day. We neither eat nor drink, from approximately 72 minutes before sunrise until 40 minutes after sunset. [5] _______________ 5. In New York City, at 9:09 p.m. ********************* * THE "THREE WEEKS" * ********************* This summer, during the months of June and July, comes a very serious time for the Jewish people, when many terrible things happened throughout history. This period is called the "Three Weeks," or Bain HaMetzorim, which means "Between the Straits." What happened during this time? On the 17th of Tamuz: 1) Moses descended from Mt. Sinai and smashed the two Tablets with the Ten Commandments when he saw the Jews worshipping the Golden Calf; 2) The Romans breached the walls of Jerusalem in 70 c.e.; 3) During the siege of Jerusalem the daily sacrifice was interrupted by Nebuchadnezzer; 4) Apostomus publicly burned a Torah scroll; and 5) An idol was erected in the courtyard of the Holy Temple. On the 9th of Av, both the First and Second Temple were destroyed, bringing terrible suffering upon the Jewish people. * The "Three Weeks" begin on the 17th of Tamuz (Tuesday, June 29, 2010), and continue until the 9th of Av (Tuesday, July 20, 2010). ********************************** * SOME LAWS OF THE "THREE WEEKS" * ********************************** We observe some aspects of mourning: Weddings do not take place, and playing musical instruments is prohibited, as is the buying and wearing of new garments. In addition, we do not cut our hair. Also, we should try to be extra kind to one another. We should give extra charity, and learn extra Torah, and pray to G-d to end the Exile. * Jewish teachings explain that when we learn the laws of the Holy Temple, its structure, the services and sacrifices practiced there, it is as if we are rebuilding it. Therefore, the Rebbe stresses that during the "Three Weeks" we should spend time studying what the Holy Temple will be like, and to learn all about it. *********************************** * A LESSON FROM THE "THREE WEEKS" * *********************************** There are two approaches to the present period of the "Three Weeks." One approach is to dwell on the awesomeness of those tragedies and the difficulties suffered by our people in the exile that followed. The other approach, while not minimizing the extent of our nation's loss, puts the emphasis on the purpose of the exile. Heaven forbid to say that destruction and exile are ends in and of themselves. Rather, within the ashes of the Temple's destruction was kindled the spark of the Future Redemption. In an ultimate sense, this was the purpose of the exile -- to prepare the Jewish people and the world at large for the higher and deeper level of fulfillment to be reached in that era. There is no question that the second approach is the one more followed in the present age. Our Sages declared, "All the appointed times for Moshiach's coming have passed; the matter is only dependent on teshuvah." We have already turned to G-d with sincere teshuvah. Thus, when speaking of the readiness of our generation, the Previous Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn, used the allegory of a garment that is complete in all respects -- "and all that is needed now is to polish the buttons." Surely, the many years of vibrant Torah activity that have followed since the Previous Rebbe's statement was made, have been sufficient to accomplish that purpose. We are standing on the threshold of the Redemption. Moshiach's coming is no longer a dream of a distant future, but an imminent reality that will very shortly become fully manifest. Through living with the concept of Moshiach, we shall hasten his coming and bring about the era in which these "Three Weeks" will be transformed from mourning into the celebration of the Redemption. May this take place in the immediate future. ******************************************* * LAWS OF THE HOLY TEMPLE * * Adapted from Rambam's Mishnah Torah [6] * ******************************************* THE MITZVAH TO BUILD When the Jews received the Torah at Mt. Sinai, they were commanded to build a Holy Sanctuary for G-d, called in Hebrew, a Mikdosh. The purpose of the Temple is to provide G-d with a place to dwell in this world, a House to which offerings may be brought. Men and women must help to build the Temple. It is a mitzvah to build it as beautifully as possible. If money is available, one should even cover the whole structure with gold! However, children may not be taken away from learning Torah, even for the sake of building the Temple. We do not build the Temple on Shabbat or on Yom Tov. A person is meant to go to the Temple three times a year, to celebrate the Festivals of Pesach, Shavuot, and Succot. A BIT OF HISTORY The first Sanctuary was built by Moshe and the Jews. It was movable, and could be transported with the Jewish people from place to place in the Wilderness. After nearly 400 years, King David, the ancestor of Moshiach, designed a permanent Temple for G-d in Jerusalem. It was built by his son, King Solomon. This was the first Holy Temple. It stood 410 years! The first Temple was destroyed by the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar, who cast the Jews into exile. After 70 years, the Jews were at last able to return to Israel, under the leadership of Ezra the Scribe. He supervised the construction of the Second Temple. This occurred right after the story of Purim took place. The Second Temple was larger than the First, and stood for 420 years! It was destroyed by the Roman armies led by Titus. The Third Temple will be rebuilt on the same spot that the first two Temples stood, when Moshiach comes, may it be very soon! THE STRUCTURE In building the Temple, large, expensive stones were used. Some were used in their natural form; others were shaped with tools, such as the huge stones still standing in the Western Wall. On the Temple Mount itself, however, no iron tools could be used. Even to hear the sound of an iron tool was forbidden, because iron (as used for weapons) shortens the life of man, and the Temple is meant to prolong it. THE TEMPLE MOUNT The entire Temple area was built on a mountain slope, not on flat ground. When a person entered the Temple, he would have to climb up Mt. Moriah, mounting the steps from level to level as he went. It is no accident that the Temple is built on a mountain. On a mountainside it is very hard to stand still. You always have to keep climbing. When it comes to learning Torah and doing mitzvot, it is the same. We must also keep climbing--by learning and doing more. The Temple Mount is called Mount Moriah. The word moriah is from the word yirah, meaning "fear" and "awe." When the Temple was standing, the world was filled with fear and awe of G-d. The word moriah is also from the root ho-r'ah, which means "teaching." This is because the highest court in all Israel, the Sanhedrin, used to sit in the Temple, so that teaching and instruction would go out from there to all the Jewish people. THE SANHEDRIN, THE SUPREME COURT The Supreme Court of seventy-one Sages (the Sanhedrin) had its chambers in the Temple. Here they would judge the people, and teach them to go higher and higher in Torah and mitzvot. The room in which the Sanhedrin would meet was called the Chamber of Hewed Stone. It was called by this name because the chairs for the judges were carved out of solid stone. The wisest and most righteous judges in Israel used to meet there, right by the Temple, so that when they were deciding the most difficult problems of the Jewish nation they would always think of G-d, and explain His Torah correctly. When Moshiach comes, and the Temple will be rebuilt, the great Sanhedrin will once again meet in the Chamber of Hewed Stones in the Temple. At that time, peace will reign, and the city of Jerusalem will expand to include all of the Land of Israel! TO HOLD THE TEMPLE IN AWE We are commanded to hold the Temple in awe, and to revere it. Of course, it is not just the building that we revere, but the One who commanded us to build it. How do we revere the Temple? We are not to enter the Temple Mount holding a staff, or with sandals on our feet, or dressed in informal clothes, or with dust on our feet, or money in our hands. Needless to say, we should not spit. A person should not take a shortcut through the Temple Mount, entering on one side and going out the other, just to make the way shorter. Rather one should walk around the outside, and enter only for the sake of a mitzvah. When leaving the Temple, a person should not turn around and walk away. He should go backwards slowly, and then turn to his side until he is out of the courtyard. A person should not act frivolously or joke around opposite the eastern gate of the Temple, for it is directly opposite the Holy of Holies. Even though the Temple is now in ruins because of our sins, a person must hold it in awe and behave in a dignified manner at all times, just as when it was standing. THE MITZVAH TO GUARD THE TEMPLE It is a mitzvah to station guards around the Temple, just as a king would have guards around his palace. Not that we have to protect G-d, for He is mightier than any army, rather we station guards to show Him honor. Every night, 24 guards would take up their positions around the Temple. The kohanim (Temple priests) stood guard inside, and 21 Levites stood guard on the outside. In the time of Moshiach, when the Temple will be rebuilt, even non-Jewish nations will send their armies to protect the Holy Temple, so that the Jews can perform their service there, in peace, to the benefit of the whole world. THE VESSELS The following vessels must be in the outer courtyard: 1. The Great Altar The Great Altar was made of stone. It was for burnt offerings, such as animals, birds, flour baked into matzos, and libations (pourings) of wine. On top of the Great Altar three fires were kept burning: one was for the daily offerings, one to provide coals for burning the incense on the Golden Altar, and one just to fulfill the commandment of always having a fire burning on the Altar of G-d. The kohanim (Temple priests) were not allowed to go up on the Altar by means of steps, nor was it permissible to build steps for the Altar. Only a ramp was allowed. The Great Altar of the Temple was in a very precise place, which may never be changed. This place is so holy that even non-Jews recognize its holiness and have never worshipped idols on the spot. The Great Altar was built on very holy ground. It is the same place where our forefather Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac (Yitzchok). Noah had made offerings to G-d there after the flood. Even Adam had made his offering to G-d there. In fact from that very spot G-d had taken the earth with which He created man! The Altar of our Third Temple will also be built exactly in this same place. Large amounts of wood were used for the fire on the Great Altar. Kohanim who could not serve in the Temple, either because of age or some other reason, would check all the wood for worms before it went to the outer Altar. They did this in a chamber called the Wood Room. 2. The Kiyor, Wash-basin The Kiyor (Wash-basin) was a large vessel full of water, used by the kohanim to wash their hands and feet, before beginning their service in the Temple. The Kiyor, originally had only two taps, but later it was redesigned by one of the High Priests called Ben Katin, to have twelve taps. This enabled all the twelve priests who participated in the daily offering to wash their hands and feet at once, before they began the Temple service. * * * In the inner Holy Chamber, there are three vessels: 1. The Small Golden Altar The small Altar was made of pure gold, and was for offerings of sweet smelling incense. 2. The Menorah The menorah was made of pure gold. It had three feet, and seven straight branches. On each branch there were three upside-down cups. Near the base was another cup, bringing the total to 22 cups--exactly equal to the number of letters in the aleph bais, the Hebrew alphabet. There were also 9 flowers and 11 egg-shaped bulbs decorating the menorah. The flowers were a symbol of the world's potential for growth and development. The bulbs were a symbol of limitless spiritual pleasure. The menorah was lit by the Kohen Gadol, the High Priest, every day toward evening. All the flames in the menorah faced the central lamp. This lamp was called the nair ma'aravi--the western lamp--because it faced the Holy of Holies. This lamp was the first one kindled every day toward evening, and it would burn miraculously long after the others had burned out, until it was time to rekindle the menorah the next day. This was a sign to the entire world that G-d dwelt with the Jewish people. 3. The Shulchan, The Table Twelve specially baked "loaves" were placed on this golden table every Friday before Shabbat. They stood in two rows. Between each tray was an air-space; the "loaves" were called the lechem hapanim, because they were shaped like a barge, facing in 2 directions at once. THE KODESH HAKODOSHIM The holiest part of the Temple was in the west. It was called the Holy of Holies. In it stood the Ark, in which the Ten Commandments were kept. This box was made of wood, with a layer of gold inside and a layer of gold outside. There were really three boxes, one within the other. The cover of the Ark was solid gold more than 6" thick. On top of the Ark-cover were two golden figures, a boy and a girl. Like soldiers they stood guard over the Torah. G-d spoke to Moshe through their wings. When G-d was pleased with the Jewish people, these figures would face towards each other with love. Beside the Ark was the legendary staff of Moshe's brother, Aaron, the first high priest, which once miraculously sprouted almond blossoms overnight, and a flask containing manna, a memorial from the time of Moshe and from the time the Jews were in the wilderness. This was to remind Jews how G-d sustained our ancestors for forty years in the desert, and how surely, He can sustain us now and at all times! No one was ever allowed into this Holiest Chamber except the Kohen Gadol, and he could only enter once a year, on Yom Kippur, to pray for the welfare of the Jewish people. To clean the Holy of Holies, men were lowered from above in baskets. The baskets faced the wall, so that the men could do their job without looking into the room itself. When King Solomon built the Temple, he knew that it would ultimately be destroyed. He built secret underground rooms in which to hide The Ark with the Ten Commandments, as well as Aaron's staff, the small vessel with manna, and the oil for anointing. Before the First Temple was destroyed, King Yeshiyahu commanded that the Ark be placed in these secret passageways. He also hid the staff of Aaron, the bottle of manna, and the oil for anointing. None of these things was found again, not even in the time of the Second Temple, but they will all be returned in the time of Moshiach, when the Third Temple will be rebuilt, speedily NOW. _______________ 6. Adapted from the "Tzivos Hashem Newsletter," edited by Dr. Dovid S. Pape. ************************************** * TIME FOR UNITY; TIME FOR STRENGTH! * ************************************** The most important principle in the Torah is the protection of Jewish life. It's more important than Shabbat, more important than holidays, even fasting on Yom Kippur. Right now, in Israel, and everywhere, Jews must stand together in unity and do whatever possible to protect Jewish life. The Rebbe teaches that there are TEN important MITZVOT we can do to protect life. See what you can do: 1) AHAVAT YISROEL: Behave with love towards another Jew. 2) LEARN TORAH: Join a Torah class. 3) Make sure that Jewish children get a TORAH TRUE EDUCATION. 4) Affix kosher MEZUZOT on all doorways of the house. 5) For men and boys over 13: Put on TEFILLIN every weekday. 6) Give CHARITY. 7) Buy JEWISH HOLY BOOKS and learn them. 8) LIGHT SHABBAT & YOM TOV candles. A Mitzvah for women and girls. 9) Eat and drink only KOSHER FOOD. 10) Observe the laws of JEWISH FAMILY PURITY. In addition the Rebbe urges that: Every Jewish man, woman and child should have a letter written for them in a SEFER TORAH.* Every person should study either the Rambam's Yad Hachazakah -- Code of Jewish Law -- or the Sefer HaMitzvos. Concerning Moshiach, the Rebbe stated, "The time for our redemption has arrived!" Everyone should prepare themselves for Moshiach's coming by doing random acts of goodness and kindness, and by studying about what the future redemption will be like. May we merit to see the fulfillment of the Rebbe's prophecy now! _______________ *. There are several Torah scrolls being written to unite Jewish people and protect Jewish life. Letters for children can be purchased for only $1. Send your Hebrew name and your mother's Hebrew name plus $1 to: "Children's Sefer Torah," P.O. Box 8, Kfar Chabad, 72915, Israel or via the Internet, at: http://www.kidstorah.org *************************************** * In loving memory of * * HORAV CHAIM YEHUDA KALMAN * * Ben Horav Avrohom Yehoshua Marlow, * * head of the Bet-Din (Rabbinical * * Court) of Crown Heights, * * Passed away, on Friday Morning, * * 20 Sivan, 5760 (June 23, 2000) * *************************************** ******************** * A CALL TO ACTION * ******************** The Rebbe's slogan is: "The main thing is the deed." We therefore present from the Rebbe's talks, suggestions of what we can do to complete his work of bringing the Redemption. Study About the Holy Temple: Jewish teachings explain that when we learn the laws of the Holy Temple, its structure, the services and sacrifices practiced there, it is as if we are rebuilding it. Therefore, the Rebbe stresses that during the "Three Weeks" we should spend time studying what the Holy Temple will be like, and to learn all about it. * "This study should be carried out in anxious anticipation of the Holy Temple being rebuilt. We should study about the Holy Temple with the awareness that in the very near future we will see what we are studying about in actual reality." The Rebbe, 24 Tamuz, 5751/1991 * "G-d told the prophet Yechezkel that through studying the laws of the structure of the Holy Temple it is considered as if we have been involved in its actual construction. "As we are so close to the Redemption, the subject must be approached as a present reality; at any moment the Third Holy Temple which is already built in the heavens will descend and be revealed on earth." The Rebbe, 17 Tamuz, 5751/1991 * The text of the book: "Seek Out The Welfare Of Jerusalem" [Analytical Studies by the Rebbe, of Rambam's rulings concerning the construction and design of the Holy Temple], published by Sichos in English -- is available on-line at: "http://www.sichosinenglish.org/books/seek-out", and is divided into a special study program. Also, for a Audio/Visual Virtual Interactive Tour of the Bais Hamikdosh (Holy Temple), go to: "http://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/144586/jewish/The-Holy-Temple.htm" ******************************* * THE WEEKLY SHABBAT CALENDAR * ******************************* ** JEWISH WOMEN AND GIRLS LIGHT SHABBAT CANDLES ** ******************************************************* * FOR LOCAL CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES: * * consult your local Rabbi, Chabad-Lubavitch Center. * * or: * * http://www.candlelightingtimes.org/shabbos * * * * FOR A FREE CANDLE LIGHTING KIT: * * contact your local Chabad-Lubavitch Center. * * * * FOR A LISTING OF THE CENTERS IN YOUR AREA: * * http://www.chabadworld.net * ******************************************************* >>>> Times Shown Are for Metro NY - NJ <<<< FRIDAY, JULY 2, EREV SHABBAT PARSHAT PINCHAS: * Light Shabbat Candles, [7] by 8:13 p.m. SATURDAY, JULY 3, SHABBAT PARSHAT PINCHAS: * On Shabbat following the afternoon prayer, we read Chapter 1 of Pirkei Avot -- Ethics of the Fathers. * Shabbat ends at NIGHTFALL, at 9:20 p.m. _______________ 7. The Shabbat candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset. IT IS PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO LIGHT THE CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET. ********************************************* * May the Shabbat candles, of the millions * * of Jewish women and girls around the * * world, illuminate our way, until we very * * soon see the fulfillment of G-d's promise * * (as it is written in the Midrash * * (Yalkut Shimoni, Beha'alotecha)): * * "If you will observe the kindling of the * * Shabbat lights, you will merit to see * * the lights of the redemption of the * * Jewish people," speedily in our days, * * NOW! * ********************************************* *************************************** * "LET THERE BE LIGHT" * * - The Jewish Women's Guide * * to Lighting Shabbat Candles * * http://www.torah4blind.org/ltbl.htm * *************************************** *********************************** * LAWS OF SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING * * FOR THE BLIND * *********************************** Edited by Rabbi Y. K. Marlow O.B.M.* * A blind woman who lives alone should light her Shabbat candle(s) with a blessing. * If she is married to a non-visually impaired person, HER HUSBAND SHOULD LIGHT THE SHABBAT CANDLES WITH THE BLESSING. * If she is eating and lighting in the company of others who are non-visually impaired, and they lit the Shabbat candles, she should light her own Shabbat candle(s), BUT WITHOUT SAYING THE BLESSING. * (If at all possible, she should not be the last one to light the Shabbat candle(s), so that she can be absolved by the latter's blessing.) _______________ *. Head of Bet-Din (Rabbinical Court) of Crown Heights. ************************************ * SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING BLESSING * ************************************ * First light the candles. Then spread your hands out around the candles, drawing your hands inward in a circular motion three times to indicate the acceptance of the sanctity of Shabbat. You then cover your eyes and recite the following blessing: BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM A-SHER KI-DE-SHO-NU BE-MITZ-VO-SOV VE-TZI-VO-NU LE-HAD-LIK NER SHEL SHA-BOS KO-DESH. Translation: Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the light of the holy Shabbat. * Uncover your eyes and behold the Shabbat lights. * The time of lighting is considered especially propitious for praying to G-d for health and happiness. The prayer is readily acceptable because it is offered during the performance of this great mitzvah of lighting Shabbat candles. CAUTION: The candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset. IT IS PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO LIGHT THE CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET. ******************************************* * MOSHIACH INFORMATION HOTLINES * * http://www.torah4blind.org/hotlines.htm * ******************************************* ****************************************** * MOSHIACH IN THE AIR - ELECTRONIC MEDIA * * http://www.torah4blind.org/e-media.htm * ****************************************** ******************************** * LIVING WITH MOSHIACH * * Weekly Digest About Moshiach * ******************************** Annual subscription (for the 18-point, large type edition) $18.00. For a one-year subscription, make your check payable to: "Enlightenment For The Blind" and mail it to: 602 N. Orange Drive. Los Angeles, CA 90036 USA Name:__________________________________ Address:_______________________________ City:__________________________________ State:___________ Zip:_________________ Telephone: ( )____________________ Due to the generosity of our donors, we offer free subscriptions to all blind and handicapped people, public service libraries and non-profit organizations. **************************************************** * TO RECEIVE THIS PUBLICATION VIA INTERNET: * * E-Mail: info@torah4blind.org * * or: * * http://www.torah4blind.org/subs.htm * **************************************************** ============================================================ = End of Text: Living With Moshiach, Parshat Pinchas, 5770 = ============================================================