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Rabbi's Blog

Standing together

This week's Torah portion begins with the words, "You are all standing here today, your tribal leaders, your elders, your officers, all people of Israel. From your wood-choppers to your water-carriers."

These words, our sages say, allude to the holiday of Rosh Hashana -- the anniversary of Man's creation, when every one of us stands humbly before G-d. At that time, what matters much more than your social position, is your ability to put aside your sense of self and stand united. This happens when we realize that we are all part of one whole, and that every person has an indispensable role in fulfilling G-d's purpose in creation.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Yitzchok Schmukler 

The Importance of Gratitude

In this week's Torah portion we read about the Mitzvah of Bikurim. The commandment to take of your first and choicest fruits of the season and bring them as gifts to the Temple. 

A lesson we draw from this is the importance of gratitude in our lives. The importance of giving credit where credit is due, and recognizing that our sustenance doesn't come by our hard work alone, but also, especially, through G-d's kindness and grace. 

Being thankful is not only the right thing to do, but it is also good for us, as a thankful person will also be a happier person!

Battle strategies

 This week's Torah portion starts with the words "When you go out to war upon your enemies..." In addition to the literal meaning, this verse is also understood to be speaking of the ongoing, internal battles being waged in our hearts and minds between our inherent good and evil inclinations. 

If you want to succeed in this internal battle, as is true in any battle, first and foremost you must go out with an attitude of "upon" your enemies. Which means that you must firmly believe in the righteousness of your cause and be confident in your ability to win.

With that attitude, you have the first step to assuring a complete victory. 

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Yitzi Schmukler 

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