LIVING WITH MOSHIACH, Parshat Beshalach B"H LIVING WITH MOSHIACH Weekly Digest About Moshiach PARSHAT BESHALACH, 5780 12 Shevat, 5780 February 7, 2020 SPECIAL FEATURES: 1. A Tribute to the Rebbe on 70 Years of Leadership 2. Shabbat Shira ******************************************** * Bring Moshiach now * * by adding in acts of goodness & kindness * ******************************************** ********************************************* * This week's issue of Living With Moshiach * * is dedicated in loving memory of * * Mrs. Aita Leah bas Reb Meir Michel * * Stayer * * Passed away on 29 Nissan, 5774 * * * * * May her Soul Merit Eternal Life * ********************************************* ************************************************* * This week's issue is sponsored in part by: * * Holy Sparks - "http://www.holysparks.com" * * * * * Your premiere site for Jewish spirituality. * * * * * 5,780 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 * * * 5780 **************************************************** * 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 * **************************************************** * 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. * Customs Corner. * The Weekly Torah Portion. * The Rebbe's Prophecy. * I Have Come into My Garden. * Yud Shevat. * Some Things Never Change. * Getting Ready For Moshiach. * Is Moshiach A Lubavitcher Concept? * Moshiach Matters. * No More "Labels" * It Happened Once. * A Shabbat Shirah Story. * Shabbat Shirah Customs. * 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 1169th issue of our weekly publication, Living With Moshiach. * In this week's issue, we focus on: 1) Yud Shevat, the 10th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat, Wednesday, Feb. 5, commemorating the 70th yahrtzeit of the Previous Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn; it is also the 70th anniversary of the Rebbe's acceptance of leadership. 2) Shabbat Parshat Beshalach, that is known as Shabbat Shirah. * On a personal note: 1) Friday, the 20th of Tevet, Jan. 17, was the 13th yahrtzeit of my dear Grandmother, Rebbetzin Mariasha Shagalov (Garelik), who was an exemplary Chasidah, and a role model for our children and all of us. A story of her bitachon -- trust and faith in G-d, is printed in Living With Moshiach Issue 510-511. 2) Wednesday, the 25th of Tevet, Jan. 22, was the 82nd yahrtzeit of my dear grandfather, Rabbi Yitzchok Elchonon Halevi Shagalov, who literally gave his life to spread Yiddishkeit in Russia. A story of a famous incident in his life, is printed in Living With Moshiach Issue 460: "http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5766/459-460.htm" May their memory be a blessing for us all. * 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 new copy editor, Reb Benyomin Hoffman, for his tireless efforts,. and, many thanks to our former 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 Rosh Chodesh Shevat, 5780 Los Angeles, California P.S.: As we are eagerly awaiting the immediate arrival of Moshiach, at any moment, we have included the five blessings that (according to many opinions) will be applicable when Moshiach comes. ************************************************* * 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 * ************************************************* ****************** * CUSTOMS CORNER * ****************** Are there special blessings that we will recite when Moshiach comes? According to many opinions there are five blessings that will be applicable when Moshiach comes. [*] #1 BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM GA'AL YISRAEL. Translation: Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, Who redeems Israel. #2 BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM SHE-HECHE-YO-NU VE-KI-YE-MO-NU VE-HIGI-O-NU LIZ-MAN HA-ZEH. Translation: Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, Who has granted us life, sustained us and enabled us to reach this occasion. #3 BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM SHE-CHA-LAK M'CHACH-MA-TO L'REI'AV. Translation: Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, Who has given wisdom to those who fear Him. #4 BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM SHE-CHA-LAK M'KI-VODO L'REI'AV. Translation: Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, Who has given honor to those who fear Him. #5 BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM CHA-CHAM HA-RA-ZIM. Translation: Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, the Wise One of secrets. _______________ *. Adapted from "L'Chaim weekly" publication, Issue #1003, published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, Brooklyn, NY. "www.lchaimweekly.org". ********************************************* * 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 * * * * May Their Souls Merit Eternal Life * * * * * Dedicated by their grandchildren * * Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Y. and Gittel Rochel * * Shagalov * ********************************************* *************************************** * THE WEEKLY TORAH PORTION * * Adapted from the Works of the Rebbe * *************************************** PARSHAT BESHALACH In this week's Torah portion, Parshat Beshalach, we read about the splitting of the Reed Sea. This miracle prepared the Jewish people for the giving of the Torah and the Final Redemption. Concerning the splitting of the sea, the Torah tells us that Nachshon ben Aminadav risked his life to jump into the Sea. It was only after Nachson entered the Sea that the waters parted and the Jews were able to proceed. Did Nachshon disregard his life by jumping into the sea? No! For Nachshon knew that G-d had taken the Jewish people out of Egypt for the sole purpose of giving them His Torah at Mount Sinai. Nachshon was guided by the desire to advance toward the Torah. It mattered not to Nachshon that a body of water obstructed his path; he jumped into the Sea. Faced with a seemingly impossible situation the Jewish people had been of several opinions. Nachshon, however, was uninterested in any of their "options" - returning, waging battle or running away - for he knew that none of this would bring them closer to Mount Sinai. He was also not interested in arguments or calculations. There was only one solution: to go forward to Mount Sinai. And so he did so, with tremendous mesirat nefesh (self-sacrifice). The portion of Beshalach is generally read on the Shabbat preceeding or following the 10th of Shevat, the anniversary of the passing of the Previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn. The circumstances surrounding the splitting of the Sea contain a timeless lesson; so do the actions of the Previous Rebbe. For throughout his life the Previous Rebbe acted with mesirat nefesh and set an example for all future generations. The Previous Rebbe did not specifically seek out mesirat nefesh; this was not his intent, as his sole objective was to spread Torah. He did not stop to consider if self-sacrifice was necessary, nor did he pay attention to the prevailing opinions and views of the other Jews of his time. To him, their arguments carried no weight at all. The only thing that motivated the Previous Rebbe was the need to get closer to Mount Sinai. Even if a "sea" stood in his way, he would jump in. What would happen next? That was G-d's concern, not his. This was immaterial to the Previous Rebbe. He simply did what he had to in order to reach Mount Sinai. From this we learn a lesson to apply in our daily lives. Our function on earth is to serve G-d, to love His creations and bring them closer to Torah. Differences of opinion and approach are not our concern. Our only true goal is to draw nearer to Mount Sinai, and to do so without consideration for any obtacles that seem to obstruct our path. ************************ * 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. * * * What makes the Rebbe's declaration -- that Moshiach's arrival is imminent and the time for the Redemption has arrived -- different from those of great leaders of previous generations? The Jewish people have believed in and awaited Moshiach's coming since the beginning of our nation. In numerous instances throughout Jewish history, tzaddikim (righteous people) of various generations pointed to hints in the Torah that the promised Redemption was near at hand. Sensing the special opportunity for Moshiach's coming, they motivated the Jewish people to study more Torah, do more mitzvot and repent in the hope that these actions would be what was needed to make the Redemption happen. In the times of the Previous Rebbe, the anticipation for the Redemption was truly tangible. The Previous Rebbe issued an urgent call to world Jewry: "Immediate repentance brings immediate Redemption." Even when the Rebbe accepted the leadership in 1950, though he said unequivocally that our generation is the last generation to live in exile and the first generation of the Redemption, he did not say that we had yet reached the moment of Redemption. Only forty years later, after sending thousands of emissaries around the world, initiating the Mitzvah Campaigns to reinvigorate Jewish observance, and inspiring millions, did the Rebbe proclaim, "The time of our Redemption has arrived." This is a totally different message that has never before been enunciated in the history of the Jewish people. The Midrash (Yalkut Shimoni) tells us that in a time when we will witness an event like the Gulf War, Moshiach will tell the Jewish people that the time of the Redemption has arrived. THIS IS NOT A HOPE, A WISH, OR A SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY, BUT A CALL TO PREPARE TO GREET MOSHIACH! The Rebbe has said that the time is now. The question each of us must ask ourselves is not, "When is Moshiach coming?" but rather, "Am I ready for Moshiach's coming today!" ______________ See "Living With Moshiach" Vol. 1148: http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5779/1148.txt ******************************************************* * IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR FRIEND AND COPY EDITOR * * Reb Mordechai ben Reb Shaul * * Staiman * * Passed away on 22 Tamuz, 5763 * * * * May His Soul Merit Eternal Life * ******************************************************* *************************************************** * I HAVE COME INTO MY GARDEN * * Adapted from the 3rd chapter of the first * * Ma'amar (Chasidic discourse) said by the Rebbe, * * on Yud* Shevat, 5711/1951. * *************************************************** The fact that our Sages say that "all those who are seventh are cherished," rather than "all those who are cherished are seventh," indicates that the seventh's primary quality lies in one's being seventh. In other words, one is cherished not on account of his choice, desire, or spiritual service, but because he is seventh -- and this is something that he is born into. Yet the fact remains that "all those who are seventh are cherished." It was for this reason that it was Moshe, who was seventh from Avraham, was privileged to have the Torah given through him. The Previous Rebbe explained (soon after arriving in America) that even when we refer to the seventh of a series as being the most cherished, the special quality of the first is apparent. For the whole meaning of "seventh" is "seventh from the first." The Previous Rebbe then explained the qualities that the first -- our forefather Avraham -- attained through his spiritual service, which was performed with total self-sacrificing devotion. Not content with the above, the Previous Rebbe adds that Avraham did not actively pursue mesirus nefesh [self-sacrifice].... Avraham's mesirus nefesh was incidental [to his actual service]. He knew that the main object of divine service was [that defined by the Sages' interpretation of the verse], "He proclaimed there the Name of G-d, L-rd of the world." [For our Sages say,] "do not read vayikra -- 'he proclaimed,' but vayakrei -- 'he made others proclaim.'" I.e., let another man likewise proclaim [G-d's Name]. And if in the course of this service mesirus nefesh was called for, he could supply that, too. Indeed, so estimable was Avraham's divine service and mesirus nefesh that even Moshe was privileged to have the Torah given through him because he was the beloved seventh -- the seventh to the first. [It is to this relationship between them that the Sages apply the verse:] "G-d told Moshe, 'Do not stand in the place of the greats [referring to Avraham].'" It is true that the seventh of a series is very much loved and that this status comes not as a result of choice nor as a result of one's divine service, but as a finished product, merely as a result of birth. Nevertheless, there are no inherent limitations that should cause an individual to say that this status is beyond him and that it is accessible only to a select few. On the contrary, this is a situation similar to that which is explained in Tanna dvei Eliyahu and quoted in Chasidus, that every Jew, even a slave and handmaiden, can attain the inspiration of the Divine Spirit. [Similarly,] each and every Jew is obligated to say, "When will my actions equal those of my forefathers, Avraham, Yitzchok and Yaakov?" At the same time we should not delude ourselves: We must know that we should "not stand in the place of the greats," and that the merit of the seventh of a series consists of his being seventh to the first. I.e., he is capable of doing the Divine service and fulfilling the mission of the first: "Do not read 'he proclaimed,' but 'he made others proclaim.'" This, then, is why the seventh is so cherished: it is he who draws down the Shechinah (Divine Presence), in fact -- the essence of the Shechinah; moreover, he draws it down into this lowly world. IT IS THIS THAT IS DEMANDED OF EACH AND EVERY ONE OF US OF THE SEVENTH GENERATION -- AND "ALL THOSE THAT ARE SEVENTH ARE CHERISHED:" ALTHOUGH THE FACT THAT WE ARE IN THE SEVENTH GENERATION IS NOT THE RESULT OF OUR OWN CHOOSING AND OUR OWN SERVICE, AND INDEED IN CERTAIN WAYS PERHAPS CONTRARY TO OUR WILL, NEVERTHELESS, "ALL THOSE WHO ARE SEVENTH ARE CHERISHED." WE ARE NOW VERY NEAR THE APPROACHING FOOTSTEPS OF MOSHIACH; INDEED, WE ARE AT THE CONCLUSION OF THIS PERIOD, AND OUR SPIRITUAL TASK IS TO COMPLETE THE PROCESS OF DRAWING DOWN THE SHECHINAH -- MOREOVER, THE ESSENCE OF THE SHECHINAH -- WITHIN SPECIFICALLY OUR LOWLY WORLD. _______________ *. On this day the Rebbe officially accepted the mantle of Chabad-Lubavitch leadership, becoming the 7th Rebbe in the Chabad-Lubavitch dynasty. ************** * YUD SHEVAT * ************** To mark 50 years since the beginning of the Previous Rebbe's leadership, the Rebbe in 1970 /5730 said: "When a yovel (jubilee) arrives, we should mark it. We should mark it, in order to act upon it." Milestones such as decade, jubilee or century anniversary, have always been remembered, marked, celebrated and "acted upon" by the Rebbe. And the Rebbe's requested action is to increase in activities that fill the world with G-dly knowledge and the performance of mitzvot to prepare for and hasten Moshiach's arrival. Just as the Rebbe celebrated these milestones in the lives of his predecessors -- the Baal Shem Tov and the Maggid of Mezritch, founders of Chasidism, as well as the six Rebbes of Chabad- Lubavitch who preceded him, so, also, the Rebbe's Chasidim, emissaries, admirers, supporters, and all those whose lives have been touched by the Rebbe, mark the special years of the Rebbe's life and leadership. In marking each milestone, the Rebbe taught us that with the new decade comes a new strength to do more and reach higher. This year, on Yud Shevat (Wed. Feb. 5) we will mark 70 years of the Rebbe's leadership. And, now that we are moving into the decade of the 80s -- which in terms of a person's allotted number of years is referred to as the years of "strength" -- surely we are all strengthened. May we use this additional strength to complete the mission that the Rebbe spoke about unceasingly in his most recent talks to date -- to prepare ourselves and the entire world to Greet Moshiach, may we Greet him NOW! **************************** * SOME THINGS NEVER CHANGE * **************************** Some things never change. Like matzah! Year after year, matzah always tastes the same. You'll never see a matzah box flashing the words "new and improved" or "all new recipe." Flour and water can't taste much different than flour and water. Change is taking place in the world around us so quickly, that it's reassuring to know that there are things in our lives and in the world that are stable. They were the same yesterday as they are today, and the same as they'll be tomorrow. This consistency, can be found in the Rebbe's assertion, that ours, is the last generation of exile and the first generation that will experience the long-awaited redemption, for all humankind. Long before the Rebbe accepted the leadership of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, 70 years ago, his thoughts were already absorbed with the idea of Moshiach and the Redemption. In 5716/1956, in a letter to then president of Israel, Yitzchak ben Tzvi, the Rebbe wrote: "From the day I went to cheder [primary school] and even before, the picture of the final Redemption started forming in my mind -- the Redemption of the Jews from their last exile, a Redemption in such a way that through it will be understood the sufferings of exile, the decrees and the destruction ... And all will be in a way that with a complete heart and full understanding it will be said on that day, 'Thank you G-d for chastising me.' " The thread joining all of the Rebbe's public addresses is the drive to do another mitzvah (commandment), to study another Torah concept, to hope and pray with a little more feeling in order to hasten the Redemption. This effort intensified when the Rebbe, with his prophetic vision, and quoting an ancient Jewish text, declared that "the time for the Redemption has arrived," a time of peace, prosperity, harmony and knowledge, a perfect world. Day after day the Rebbe said that we are poised on the threshold of the Redemption. The Rebbe pointed to events taking place around the world, as well as technological advances, as indications of, or precursors to, the Messianic Era. The Rebbe encouraged everyone: "Open your eyes" to the reality of the Redemption. Make the Redemption your reality, therefore, let's strive to experience true liberty, to really open our eyes to the reality of the good and G-dly in everyone and everything around us. This new vision, together with an additional mitzvah, will surely bring the ultimate change to the entire world, the change from exile to Redemption, with the revelation of Moshiach, NOW! ****************************** * GETTING READY FOR MOSHIACH * ****************************** There has always been one central theme in all of the Rebbe's talks: the Redemption. Throughout the years, the Rebbe suggested various projects to hasten the coming of Moshiach and to prepare for that eternal era of peace and tranquility. But, upon declaring that "the time of your Redemption has arrived" in 5751/1991, the Rebbe repeatedly stressed a number of practical activities to prepare ourselves and the world for Moshiach. One activity is to increase in Torah study about Moshiach and the Redemption. Concerning this the Rebbe said, "Since Moshiach is about to come, a final effort is required that will bring Moshiach. Every individual -- man, woman and child -- should increase his Torah study in subjects that concern the Redemption. This applies to the Written Torah and the Oral Torah -- in the Talmud, Midrashim as well as (and especially) in the mystical dimension of the Torah, beginning with the Zohar and particularly in Chasidus... This study is a foretaste and preparation for the study of the Torah of Moshiach... An increase in Torah study in these areas is the 'direct way' to bring about the revelation, and coming of Moshiach, in reality." Another activity to prepare for Moshiach, is to upgrade one's observance of mitzvot (commandments) particularly charity. Said the Rebbe, "One should likewise upgrade one's meticulous observance of the mitzvot, particularly the mitzvah of tzeddakah (charity) which 'brings the Redemption near.' It would be well to make one's increased contributions with the intent that it hasten the Redemption. This intention in itself becomes part of one's study of subjects connected with the Redemption -- for this is a tangible study of the teaching of our Sages, 'Great is charity, for it brings the Redemption near.' " Surely, by implementing these suggestions, we will imminently see the realization of the Jewish people's prayers throughout the millenia, the coming of Moshiach, NOW! ************************************** * IS MOSHIACH A LUBAVITCHER CONCEPT? * ************************************** Is the so-called "Moshiach Campaign" a Lubavitch invention? At a gathering on Shavuot 5745/1985, the Rebbe spoke about people's perception of the desire for Moshiach as an "innovation" of Lubavitch. The Rebbe said (freely translated): "Someone wrote to me recently that he met a religious Jew ... [who] asked, 'Why do Lubavitchers cry out and proclaim, "Moshiach now!" ' "The person who wrote the letter wasn't sure what to answer the other Jew and therefore was writing to me for an answer. "It is mind-boggling that the letter-writer didn't know what to answer the other Jew! But to answer the question: "Belief in Moshiach and awaiting his coming -- 'I believe in the coming of Moshiach... I wait every day that he should come' -- is one of the 13 fundamental principles of the Jewish faith as enumerated by Maimonides. "Every Jew requests in each of the three daily weekday services, 'Speedily cause the scion of David Your servant to flourish... for we hope for Your salvation every day.' And each day, including Shabbat and holidays, in the three prayer services, we beg, 'May our eyes behold Your return to Zion in mercy!' "After all of this, there are those who say that the request that we go out of exile to the Redemption -- 'Moshiach now,' -- is a 'novel' idea of Lubavitch!" The Rebbe quoted a verse from Psalms, "As the deer longs for the springs of water, so does my soul call out in thirst for You G-d." The Rebbe explained that this verse emphasizes our great pain over the exile and our desire and longing for the Redemption. This desire is not just that we want "Moshiach now," but much more: In the same way a person who hasn't had water for a long time thirsts for it in order to revive his soul, so should our thirst for the Redemption affect our lives literally. May our cry of "Moshiach now!" be filled with a true thirst for the Redemption that will reunite us with the Rebbe and bring the Redemption, NOW! ******************** * MOSHIACH MATTERS * ******************** "The future Redemption will apply not only to Israel, but to the whole world as well. In preparation for this Redemption, therefore, action needs to be taken so that the world at large will be ready for such a state. "This is to be achieved through the efforts of the Jewish people to influence the nations of the world to conduct themselves in the spirit of the verse that states that G-d 'formed the world in order that it be settled' (Isaiah 45:18) in a civilized manner, through the observance of their seven mitzvot." The Rebbe, 5743/1983 * In light of the about, and in connection with Yud Shevat, this is, once again, the perfect opportunity to consider the implications of the Rebbe's campaign to disseminate, among non-Jews, the knowledge and observance of the Seven Noachide Laws. The nations of the world were given a Divine code of conduct, the Seven Noachide Laws, which consist of six prohibitions against: adultery, murder, robbery, idolatry, blasphemy, cruelty to animals -- and one positive command, to establish a judicial system. The Rebbe has encouraged his emissaries around the world to meet with governmental officials and heads of state to sign proclamations, encouraging the study and observance of the Seven Noachide laws. Governmental proclamations, however, are not the Rebbe's only concern. An important part of the Jew's task is to see to it that all people, not just Jews, acknowledge G-d as Creator and Ruler of the world and to therefore conduct themselves according to the Seven Noachide Laws. Each and every Jew has an important role to play in this task. But how can this be accomplished? When a Jew conducts himself properly in all areas of his life -- business, recreation, family, and religious -- he will automatically influence the people around him. When the nations of the world see Jews acknowledging G-d as Ruler of the world, through prayer and by following His commandments, they, too, will come to realize the importance and truth of G-d's omnipotence. * For more information about The Seven Noachide laws, go to: "http://www.torah4blind.org/noahide.htm" ******************** * NO MORE "LABELS" * ******************** by Rabbi Eli Friedman [*] At 10:40 pm on Wednesday, 10 Shevat, 5711 (Jan. 17, 1951), "labels" for Jews ceased to exist. At that moment, at 770 Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, New York, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson consented to become the seventh Rebbe in the Chabad-Lubavitch dynasty. And at that moment, the destructive life of "labels" came to a swift end. "Labels" like "Reform," "Conservative," and "Orthodox" were rendered useless when the new Rebbe quietly took his seat at the head of table of Chabad. "In America you're expected to make an official statement -- preferably something sensational -- when you take a new position," the Rebbe said during that historic gathering. And then he declared his "official statement." "There are three loves that are joined as one and cannot exist without each other: Love for G-d, love for His Torah, and our love for each other." As the Rebbe elaborated on this beautiful vision, the theme of the evening started coming into focus. The Rebbe was committing himself -- along with those who had insisted on his leadership -- to a whole new level of uncompromising love for his fellow Jews. As Chasidim spent more time with their new Rebbe, they discovered a pattern: the Rebbe spoke about "the essence of the soul," the "untainted core of every Jew," the "unchanged truth of the Jewish spirit," and other similar ideas. These ideas made the "labels" sound silly and obsolete. Slowly the Rebbe taught the world that there aren't "kinds of Jews" any more than there are "kinds of G-d." G-d is One and so are His People. "No two Jews are alike; each of us is unique and brings an irreplaceable presence to the world," the Rebbe taught. "But our incredible diversity is evidence of one Divine, infinite soul we all share." The Rebbe embraced those differences that bring out our unity. When we disagree on how to best serve G-d, we are celebrating our common goal of serving G-d. When communities have different customs in how to best perform a particular mitzvah (commandment), it highlights their common love for the mitzvah. Titles that highlight our unity are sacred. "Labels" that emphasize our disunity from each other are not! They distract us from our genuine and authentic unity, which is as true as G-d Himself, and as timeless as the Torah He gave us. When Moshiach comes, everyone will see this, plain as day. But in the brief moment until then, and especially as we celebrate the 70th year of that mission, everyone who has learned from the Rebbe knows this, plain as day. While there may be different degrees to which a person knows or observes the Torah and its mitzvot, these are not degrees that need to become careers. We shouldn't identify by them. Some Jews are doing more, some are doing less. We should all step it up a notch. But we ARE ALL JEWS! ________________ *. Rabbi Friedman, together with his wife Shaini, directs Chabad of Calabasas, CA. ******************** * IT HAPPENED ONCE * ******************** What do people mean when they say that the Rebbe is still with us, guiding, leading, helping, praying on our behalf? These two recent stories illustrate this idea. = I = Mr. and Mrs. Moishe and Nechama Szusterman of Buenos Aires, Argentina, had been married for 14 years ago but still were not blessed with children. Because of their ages, he was already 54 and she was already 50, doctors were hesitant to continue with fertility treatments. Family members and friends would continuously mention them in their prayers and encourage them not to give up hope. One friend even went to pray at the Rebbe's Ohel on the auspicious day of Lag B'Omer on their behalf. Rabbi Moshe Freedman obm, the Rebbe's emissary in Bahia Blanca, would especially encourage Moishe to rejoice heartily every Simchat Torah in keeping with the teaching that joy breaks through all boundaries. Mrs. Baila Baumgarten, an emissary of the Rebbe in Buenos Aires was well aware of their anguish. Baila heard that Mrs. Chana Lipskar, a fellow emissary in Bal Harbour, Florida, had wine that had been given out by the Rebbe at the conclusion of a farbrengen (Chasidic gathering). Mrs. Lipskar and her husband Rabbi Sholom Ber Lipskar had asked the Rebbe for a blessing for more children after having a single child, their daughter Devorah Leah. "The Rebbe blessed us that there would be sons and daughters," Mrs. Lipskar recalled. "After several years, we were thank G-d blessed with a son Schneur Zalman. Years later, I received wine from the Rebbe through a friend and created a protocol with specific instructions approved by the Rebbe's office." Mrs. Lipskar believed that the Rebbe's blessing for sons and daughters -- plural -- meant that she should share the special blessed wine with others, and that they would be blessed with children. After hearing about the wine, the Baumgartens contacted the Lipskars and arranged for some of the wine to be brought to Argentina. The Baumgartens then presented it to the Szustermans. This past Elul (September), the Szustermans were blessed with a son. Mrs. Lipskar said that together with the Szustermans baby, "To date there are 76 children (as far as I'm aware of) hopefully more, that were born after the parents drank the wine that contains a special blessing from the Rebbe." = II = by Rabbi Akiva Wagner A group of nine Lubavitcher yeshivah students were traveling through the former Soviet Union. They were visiting various villages and towns, to do what they could to spread and strengthen Judaism. At the time of our story, they were together on a train, en route to their next destination. Russia has always been notorious for its sorely lacking public services, and the students on that particular trip were to experience firsthand the quality of the Russian public transportation system. In the middle of their journey their train broke down, and they were informed that it would be hours until it was up and running again. Although they were now stranded, these boys were resourceful, and set out to look for a place where they could wait out the delay. In the former Soviet Union there is a Federation of the Jewish Communities of the CIS, and there is a representative who is the leader of the Jewish community in each region. So the boys searched for the contact information for the FJC representative in the area in which they were now stranded, and promptly called him. They explained their predicament and asked if they could come over to rest, say the evening prayers and perhaps get something to eat, while the authorities worked on repairing the problem. The gentleman was pleased to oblige, and gave them directions to his home. A short while later, the nine young men knocked on his door. To their great surprise, as they began filing into the house, their host burst into heart wrenching sobs. For a few awkward moments he was crying hysterically, while the puzzled students could not calm him down. Finally he relaxed a bit, and he sat them down and shared his story. "My father," the man related, "was in Auschwitz. While there he risked his own life to ease the plight of his fellow Jews. Miraculously, he survived the war. At some point he had a private audience with the Rebbe. During that audience, the Rebbe stood up for my father, saying that he was deserving of that honor, as someone who risked his own life to help others. The man continued, "During the meeting the Rebbe made two promises to my father. The Rebbe assured him that he would live a long life, and the Rebbe further assured him that 'men vet dir nit fargessen' -- (You won't be forgotten). "What can I tell you," the man concluded emotionally to the amazed students, "the first blessing was fulfilled very literally. My father passed away last year at the ripe old age of 104. But for the life of me, I didn't see any way that the second promise could be realized. You see, tonight is my father's first yahrtzeit, and I didn't see any possibility of gathering a minyan in this remote area of Russia. I wouldn't be able to say kaddish for him on his first yahrtzeit, how can that be considered not forgotten?! "You understand now why I was gripped by uncontrollable emotion when exactly nine men needed to complete the minyan walked through my door, inexplicably, on the eve of his yahrtzeit!" ************************** * A SHABBAT SHIRAH STORY * ************************** On Shabbat Parshat Beshalach, Shabbat Shirah, 5702/1942, the Previous Rebbe related: "Every year, during the week of Parshat Beshalach, the Maharal of Prague would instruct the teachers that on Shabbat Parshat Beshalach they should gather all their young students, in the courtyard of the synagogue, in order to tell them the story of how the birds sang and danced during the splitting of the Reed Sea. As related in the Midrash, the Jewish children plucked fruit from the branches of the trees that sprang up on either side (of the path through the Reed) Sea and fed them to the birds. "After the story was told, kashe -- buckwheat groats were distributed to the children to scatter about (in courtyard of the synagogue) for the birds, in commemoration of this event. "The Maharal would then bless the children and their parents that they raise them to a life of Torah and good deeds and lead them to the marriage canopy." ************************** * SHABBAT SHIRAH CUSTOMS * ************************** Shabbat Parshat Beshalach (Sat., Feb. 8), is known as Shabbat Shirah, commemorating the shirah, or song that the Jewish people sang at the Splitting of the Reed Sea. The song is recorded in the weekly Torah portion, and includes details of how Moshe led the men in song and Miriam led the women in song and dance. * On Shabbat Shirah it is customary to eat kasha -- buckwheat groats. Some also have the custom of putting kasha or bread crumbs out for the birds before Shabbat so that they, too, can partake. * * * The reason for this custom is quite interesting and originates in the weekly Torah portion. We read this week about the manna, the bread from Heaven, with which the Jews were sustained during their 40-year sojourn in the desert. The Jews were commanded to gather each morning just enough manna to feed their families for the day. Miraculously, each person had precisely the amount he needed for his family, not more and not less. Before Shabbat, the Jews were told to gather a double portion; no manna would fall on Shabbat since it is forbidden to gather on the holy day. Some scoffers saved some of their manna from that morning and scattered it on Friday evening. Their plan was to gather the manna Shabbat morning and bring it into the camp, thus discrediting Moses and proving their claim that Moses created his own mitzvot. During the night, after the manna had been strewn, birds came and gathered it all up, thus vindicating Moses and sanctifying the Sabbath among the Jewish people. In appreciation and gratitude of the birds' deed, we make sure to give them food on Shabbat Shirah. * * * Might we not take a lesson from this Jewish tradition passed on through the ages? If it is customary to show gratitude to birds for such a small act, might we not also learn to show gratitude to our brothers and sisters for each act of kindness or caring that they do for us? ************************************** * 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, 6084000, Israel, or via the Internet, at: http://www.kidstorah.org ******************** * 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. The Seven Universal Laws of Noah: Influence non-Jews to observe the seven universal laws commanded to Noah and his descendants. The Seven Noachide Laws consist of six prohibitions against: adultery, murder, robbery, idolatry, blasphemy, cruelty to animals -- and one positive command, to establish a judicial system. * For more information about The Seven Noachide laws, go to: http://www.torah4blind.org/noahide.htm ("http://www.torah4blind.org/noahide.htm"). *************************************** * 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) * * * * May His Soul Merit Eternal Life * *************************************** ******************************* * 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, FEB. 7, EREV SHABBAT PARSHAT BESHALACH: * Light Shabbat Candles,[1] by 5:03 p.m. SATURDAY, FEB. 8, SHABBAT PARSHAT BESHALACH: * Shabbat Shirah -- see above. * Shabbat ends at NIGHTFALL, at 6:04 p.m _______________ 1. 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 Beshalach, 5780 = ===============================================================