B"H
Friday, Iyar 7, 5780 / May 1, 2020 (22th day of the Omer)
This Shabbat we read the two Parshiot, Acharei Mot & Kedoshim. Acharei Mot means, “After the death.” This refers to the passing of Aaron’s two sons, Nadav & Avihu, who perished om the day of the dedication of the Mishkan (Tabenacle). Kedoshim means, “holy.”
Although these are two different Parshiot and in many years they are read separately, there is a connection between the two Parshiot just by the translation of their names.
Our sages tell us that when Aaron lost his two sons, Moshe said to Aaron, “I knew that G-d name would be sanctified on that special day of the dedication of the Mishkan, by the greatest of our people. I was sure it was going to be me or you. However, now I realize that your two sons were greater than both of us. This is why G-d took them, not us!” The Torah tells us, “When Aaron heard this, “Aaron was quiet.” He accepted his lot.
I mention this as last week we remembered the Kedoshim – the most Holy souls of our generation, who were murdered and perished in the Holocaust. Six million of our best and holiest. Just as Moshe told Aaron that his sons were taken because they were the best and holiest, so too, the six million myrters were our best and holiest.
This week was also Yom Hazikaron – Remembrance Day for the fallen soldiers of the Israeli Defense Forces, who gave their lives to defend the Holy Land and protect the millions of Jews in it.
Aaron, who could have complained and be upset at G-d for taking his two children, instead, he continued to perform his service in the Mishkan.
Aaron knew that his two sons continue to live on in a spiritual form and were now closer to G-d. The Torah says that they passed away, “when they came closer to G-d.” Aaron knew and appreciated that true life was the spiritual form of life. It’s the life of the Neshama (soul). It’s a life that has no death associated with it, for it is an everlasting and eternal life. May the souls of the fallen heroes of the IDF rest in peace in Gan Eden.
This week was 72 years of one of the greatest miracles of our time – the miracle of the State of Israel. In only 72 years the land of Israel was transformed from a wasteland to one of the most successful countries in the world and the greatest Torah center of the world.
This miracle is even greater when we consider that it took place right after one of the greatest tragedies and disasters which happened to us, when a third of the Jewish nation, six million, men, women and children, were so brutally murdered throughout Europe. Today, we give special thanks to Hashem for the great miracle of Israel. May we see the fulfilment of Am Yisrael Chai – Israel lives and will live forever! May we merit the coming of Moshiach NOW!
SHABBAT SHALOM
Montreal Candle lighting time: 7:43 / Shabbat ends: 8:53