The Exile makes us into Jews who have to ingratiate ourselves to the non-Jews. Rabbi Avraham Ibn Ezra explains this idea in connection to the Exodus from Egypt. When the Egyptians pursued the Jews, they were terrified. Why? They were six-hundred thousand armed men. Why didn't they strike the Egyptians?!
Purim and National Unity
When the Jewish People are in Eretz Yisrael, it brings light and goodness to the entire world. By such means, may we merit great salvation and great comfort, speedily in our day.
Pekudei – HaRav Dov Begon
In the life of a nation, as well, there are sometimes difficult enterprises that at first glance would seem impossible for us to get off the ground. Yet, when we strive here on earth, G-d helps us above and beyond our own powers.
Vayakel – HaRav Dov Begon
The State of Israel is the beginning of the Kingdom of Israel, at the height of which we will merit the appearance of the Messianic King and the rebuilding of the Temple. Yet the State of Israel is beset by enormous hardships in the shape of struggles and wars with...
Vayakel- Art and Creation
What exactly were these three gifts of wisdom, insight, and knowledge that God bestowed upon Betzalel? The Sages wrote that the master craftsman was privy to the very secrets of creation. Betzalel knew how to “combine the letters with which the heavens and the earth were created,” and utilized this...
ENLISTMENT OF YESHIVA STUDENTS
“To the extent that there is a need for yeshiva students to fight in a war, the same obligation rests on them as on everyone else. Within this general understanding there is room to make a truthful assessment of how essential their participation is."
Ki Tissa – Rabbi Kook
Tragically, the Erev Rav succeeded in convincing the Israelites to abandon their lofty level. Even worse, as they relied on their natural sense of morality, they lost even this ethical level due to their undisciplined desires. They descended into a state of complete moral disarray.
The Crucial Role of Jewish Education
By investing in Jewish education, we ensure the preservation of our heritage, strengthen our Jewish identity and solidify our connection to the State of Israel and to our fellow Jews.
Father of the Settlements – Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda Kook
“HaRav Tzvi Yehuda made it clear that in any discussions with non-Jews about Eretz Yisrael, the starting point must be that the other side acknowledge, without any room for negotiation or compromise, that the entire Land of Israel belongs to the Jewish People for all eternity.”
Terumah – HaRav Dov Begon
Our national home, as well, the State of Israel, was established with G-d’s help, through the good will displayed by large segments of the people. They united together at an auspicious moment and established the Jewish State despite the Arab’s attacking us and despite the enormous difficulties.