WHY ALL THE FANFARE?
This week’s Parsha, Ki Savo, opens with a very unique mitzvah, the mitzvah of Bikurim. While every mitzvah is unique in its own way, Bikurim is distinct in the manner which it is fulfilled. The mitzvah itself is for every landowner who has fruit trees to take his very first fruits of the season and present them to the Kohein in the Bais Hamikdosh. The way this mitzvah was performed was outstanding.
Continue reading Ki Savo 5779UNCONDITIONAL AND ABSOLUTE
Our Sages teach us that the Esrog represents the one who has both Torah study and good deeds, the Lulav represents the one who has Torah study but lacks good deeds, the Hadassim represent the one who has good deeds but lacks Torah study and finally the Arava represents the Jew lacks both Torah study and good deeds. These four types of plants are brought together and held in the hands of every Jew as he celebrates his Succos holiday. The imagery can be appreciated as we bring all types of Jews together and in unison we draw ourselves close to HaShem.
Continue reading Zos Habracha / Succos 5779