B"H
Wednesday Iyar 28, 5777 / May 24, 2017 (43rd day of the Omer)
Today is the 28th day of Iyar. On this day, 50 years ago, the Holy city of Jerusalem, the Kotel and all the Holy places which have been ours for over three thousand years were returned to their rightful owner – the Jewish people. The reunification of Jerusalem took place on the third day of the Six Day war, the 28th of Iyar. Having been in Israel during the six day war, there are no words to describe the feelings of exhilaration and gratitude for G-d's wonderful gift.
Our connection and claim to the Holy Land dates back long before any of the other religions, who lay claim to the land, have even existed! We proclaim loud and clear; JERUSALEMIS OURS FOREVER!
To the Soldiers of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) we say Chazak - be strong for G-d is with you!Your moral standards and sensitivity for human lives are the highest in the world and should serve as guidance to the very people who constantly criticize you. May G-d protect you and your families, as you protect us. May you go from strength to strength. AMEN.
Questions & Answers concerning the holiday of Shavuot – Giving of the Torah
Q. How old was Moshe and his brother Aaron at the Giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai?
A. Moshe was eighty years and Aaron eighty three.
Q. Do we view the Giving of the Torah as an event which took place 3329 years ago?
A. Although the Giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai took place 3329 years ago, we have to view that great event, each day, as if it happened today. Just like we proclaim at the Passover Seder, "In every generation we must see ourselves as leaving Egypt", so too, we view the Giving of the Torah, in the spiritual sense, as if it takes place in the present.
This is reflected in the blessing we recite each day, thanking G-d for the Torah, and also when called to the Torah; "Blessed are you L-rd Who gives the Torah." We say "gives" in the present tense. Our sages tell us that, "Each day the Torah shall be in your eyes as new!"
Q.Why did G-d choose to give the Torah at Mount Sinai and not on one of the taller mountains?
A.Our sages tell us that the higher and taller mountains figured that G-d will choose to give the Torah on them. But G-d chose Mount Sinai, for the very fact that it is not a tall mountain. G-d wanted to teach the Jewish people that Torah cannot be acquired when one feels tall and haughty. Only through humility and modesty can one merit acquiring and absorbing the depth of the knowledge of Torah. Like Mount Sinai, humility and Torah go hand in hand.
HAVE A VERY GOOD, HAPPY, HEALTHY AND SUCCESSFUL DAY