In last week’s Parsha we find the great Mitzvah of “VeLo Sonu Ish Es Amiso” (Vayikra 25:17)…each of you shall not aggrieve his fellow. Chazal (Bava Metzia 58B) teach that this Pasuk refers specifically to causing pain with words--Ono’as Devorim. The Mishna and Gemara (ibid.) elaborate on the prohibition against Ono’as Devorim and further details are brought LeHalacha in Shulchan Aruch, Choshen Mishpat, Chapter 428, which is dedicated to this topic.
Because this is a Mitzvah which is so pervasive--which involves so much of our waking day--we hope to spend the next three days reinvigorating ourselves in this crucial area. Success in the Mitzvah will literally bring you to a different place in Olam Haba--and Olam Hazeh. We begin with a Bulletin note previously published, which Baruch Hashem has been very positively received:
The Power of Words, a sefer by Rabbi Zelig Pliskin, Shlita is dedicated to improvement--and mastery--of this crucial Mitzvas Bain Odom LeChaveiro, which so much impacts on our Bain Odom LeMakom, as well. Indeed, the Pasuk cited above actually continues “VeYoraisa MaiElokecha--and you shall fear Hashem”--for in properly fulfilling this Mitzvah, one demonstrates that he fears Hashem Who sees, knows, and understands our thoughts and actions. Accordingly, we provide below many salient points gleaned from this wonderful sefer, which are indeed “suitable for framing”--and which certainly should be reviewed from time to time--and especially when you well know that you are about to have a challenging encounter. We present the points by number, for ease of reference.
1. The Chazon Ish wrote, “Even if what you say will cause someone pain or discomfort for only a brief moment, it is a violation of this Torah commandment.”
2. Be aware of what the consequences of what your words will be. Any time your words will cause someone pain it constitutes Ono’as Devorim.
3. Some people can suffer again and again for years because of insulting remarks people have made to them.
4. One of the easiest ways to make enemies is to insult people.
5. Someone who studies Torah has a greater obligation than others to avoid all forms of Ono’as Devorim. Failure to do so will cause others to learn from his negative example, and could even cause people to have negative feelings about Torah study in general.
6. Any statement that disparages the appearance of another person is considered Ono’as Devorim.
7. It is forbidden to say or do things to scare other people.
8. The laws of Ono’as Devorim are based in the subjective response of the person you are talking to. Even if many other people don’t mind a certain statement, if the person you say it to will be distressed, upset, angry or offended, it is forbidden.
9. Don’t disparage the Torah thoughts of others. If you want to disagree, do so in a polite manner.
10. Don’t insult someone for being different from you in personality, thought, background, habits, etc.
11. It is Ono’as Devorim to say things to a person which would imply that he is not normal.
12. Needlessly saying things to cause someone worry is Ono’as Devorim.
13. When you have conflicting interests with someone, master the art of finding peaceful solutions. Find the basic needs of both parties and try to find ways that the needs of both parties can be met.
14. Statements made in a sarcastic tone of voice constitute Ono’as Devorim, even though the words themselves might sound Kosher.
15. Asking people personal questions about matters they would prefer not to discuss causes them discomfort and is Ono’as Devorim.
16. It is counterproductive to say to someone, “If I told you once, I told you a thousand times…”
17. Avoid saying, “You don’t understand,” when you are discussing ideas with others.
18. If you see that a person is very tired or in an especially irritable mood, be very careful with what you say to him.
19. People who are very perceptive and notice all kinds of details about personality and character of others must be careful to use this gift as a tool to help--not to hurt--others.
20. It is easy for married couples to cause each other much emotional pain by insulting one another. Even if two people disagree or are disappointed with each other, they should still speak to each other with respect.
21. Anger does not give you permission to violate the prohibition against Ono’as Devorim.
22. Humor at someone else’s expense is Ono’as Devorim.
23. Accepting other people and their differences is one of the keys to observing this Mitzvah.
24. When you have internalized the awareness that people are created BeTzelem Elokim--in the image of Hashem--you will experience great respect for each person you encounter.
25. When you communicate with others, be aware of your goal. Most insults and derogatory comments are counterproductive and will not help you achieve your goal.
26. The more difficult it is to refrain from insulting someone, the greater the reward.
27. Whenever you refrain from saying anything that would be Ono’as Devorim, feel the joy of fulfilling a Mitzvah.
28. You are what you say. By transgressing the laws of Ono’as Devorim you are lowering your own spiritual level.
29. Any time that someone hurts your feelings in some way, view it as a learning experience to teach yourself to be more sensitive to causing others distress with words.
30. Imagine standing before Hashem after 120 years and being confronted with all of your Ono’as Devorim statements.
31. “It’s your fault for taking offense.” If someone will feel pain because of what you say, you have an obligation to avoid saying it and you cannot blame the other person for feeling hurt.
32. “I hope that this doesn’t offend you, but…” Starting off with this statement does not render your Ono’as Devorim permissible.
33. When you want to influence someone to do something, always try to motivate him with an approach that will be based on his needs, wants, and personality.
34. There are many statements that if said with a smile will not cause a person distress--even though they might if a person were to say the words with a serious expression on his face.
35. There are always ways of disagreeing with someone that show a basic respect for him even though you disagree with what he said.
36. The laws of Ono’as Devorim apply even to parents when they speak to their children.
37. The laws of Ono’as Devorim apply even to small children. Insulting a young child or frightening him as a joke is forbidden.
38. If someone is angry, it is an act of kindness to calm him down. Be careful not to say things that would be Ono’as Devorim to someone who is presently angry.
39. When you speak to a stranger, you might not be aware of his particular sensitivities and therefore might cause him pain unintentionally. Note the facial reactions of the people you speak to.
40. When you see someone insulting another person, have the courage to say something to stop him.
41. Be willing to make a public commitment to your family and friends that you will be careful with Ono’as Devorim.
42. Statements that can easily be Ono’as Devorim:
“I heard Lashon Hora about you”
“Everybody knows”
“Do you remember me?”
“Why aren’t you married yet?”
“You don’t care”
“You don’t understand”
“You should have asked me”
“Talk it into yourself”
“Keep your mouth…”
“Get lost”
“I don’t care”
“So what?!”
“I see that you are nervous”
“I never do that…”
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As we all know, the Parsha has reminded us of this Mitzvah this particular week, at this particular point, and even at this particular juncture in our lives [this is what Hashgacha is all about], because it is something for each and every one of us to work on in his own particular way. Let us each meet the challenge--and fulfill this great Mitzvah in a way that brings us a wonderful Nachas Ruach--which will bring along with it Nachas Ruach to others…and, in a magnificent way, to our Creator as well!
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Hakhel MIS
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This Wednesday May 11 we will be having Hindy Perr speak to us about Chana, the mother of Shmuel Hanavi. Shmuel’s yorzeit is coming up at the end of Yiar.
Sponshorships are available.
Time: 9:15 PM Phone Number: 212-990-8000 Pin number 8020#
UPDATE ON BOYS IN JAPAN The final verdict in the trial of Yaakov Yosef ben Raizel is scheduled for next Monday May 16, which is Sunday in America. The closing arguments for Yoel Zeav ben Mirel Risa Chava is scheduled for this Thursday May12th which is Wednesday in America. The trial for Yoel Zev is watching the verdict Of Yaakov Yosef very carefully. As the attachment shows, the rabbonim are asking that we increase our davening for them in this most crucial week. In addition, there is a chart attached giving out Tehillim perokim for people to say every day. This coming Motzei Shabbos, May 14th at 10 PM NY time, there will be a Tehillim teleconference for the boys in Japan
The number is the same as our call in number for our shiruim: 212-990-8000 Pin number 3067# Please let your group know about these developments.
RENA KENARAK-GIVING SHIUR ON SEFER TEHILLIM
Starting this Wednesday afternoon,May 11th at 1:15-2:15 PM, Rena Kenarak will be teaching us Sefer Tehillim perek by perek. We are just before Shavous, the yorzeit of Dovid HaMeleck, how better to prepare ourselves for this Yom tov.
The call in number is 212-990-8000 Pin number 3067#
Rabbi Moshe Weinberger, certified social work will be answering Questions about sholom bayis and personal growth . The date and time has not yet been set. He did have a session last week and that is already on Kol Haloshon. The prompts are 1-4-36
Both of these classes will be on Kol Haloshon, so they can be heard after They are taped. Next week, we will give the number of where they are in The archives.
This past Wednesday we had roiza Weinreich speak to us Real Happiness Now. The Harrisburg Aneinu Tehillim Group Sponsored the shiur l’refuah shelaima their wonderful rebbetzin, Laya Adina bas Chaya Esther, who underwent Major surgery immediately after Pesach-a heart and lung transplant The shiur was also sponsored by Rachelle Myers, an Aneinu member from Silver springs Ma in commemoration of the First yorzeit of her dear mother, Devorah bas Moshe Reuven whose yorzeit came out exactly on the night of the shiur-the first Day of Rosh Chodesh Iyar. She explained that starting from Pesach till Shavous, Hashem showers us with tremendous ahava-love.When we were in Mitzraim, we did not deserve to be freed, we were on the 49th level of tumah. The angels told Hashem, why are you freeing The Yidden, both they and the Mitzrim are ovdei avoda zoro-worship idols. But because Hashem loves us so much, he Said,” I am not listening to all the points of middas hadin-I am freeing the Yidden” and this love that starts at Pesach, continues Through sefiras haomer and culminates in Shavous. Roiza explained beautifully that we all know how to deal with Yiras Hashem-fear of Hashem. This we learn from our young Ages how to deal with the yomin noarim-with Yom Kippur-with fasting –who will die, by which way will they die this year, The words of nisana tokef ring in our years during that time period. But she said, it behooves us to learn how to deal with Ahavas Hashem-love of Hashem-which permeates the air at the time Of Pesach and Sefiras HaOmer. Roiza explained that when the Torah writes that in golus, Hashem hides himself from us, it also means that in these times, Hashem is so hidden from us, that we don’t’ realize how much we really need Hashem. We daven for health, wealth, nachas Etc, but what we need to daven for primarily is “Hashem, I need you “ . (She gave an example of someone who buys a fancy Mixer, assembles It and turns it on, but it doesn’t go. When the mixer is returned to the store and the woman says it is damaged, The owner of the store shows her-but you forgot to plug it in). So too we, must plug ourselves into Hashem-rejuvenate our Connection with him-and that is Real Happiness. As Dovid HaMelech says, “Kirvas Elokim Li Tov” The best thing for me is to be Close to Hashem. The Arizal writes that if a person changes his nature, he will be worthy of great gifts from Hashem. Why? Because just as he changes His nature to do Hashem’s will, Hashem will change nature to shower the person “mikol toov” with all that is good. Rav Shimshon Pinkus writes, that if a person feels slighted or is insulted by another person. If he holds his tongue and does not Answer back, then at that moment, he can ask Hashem for anything. He changed his nature for Hashem, Hashem will change nature For him. Roiza has developed excerises to help us bring Hashem more into our lives, and brings us happiness. For those who live in Brooklyn, she is starting a workshop at Shalheves on Monday evenings at 8:15 PM beginning this Monday May 9th. It will be a series of 4 lectures. The workshop is titled, “Real Happiness Now, Mastering the art of thinking well. Opening new pathways Of understanding, Improving your health and elevating your mazel”. She will be giving out review materials and practical skills and 15 one minutes attitude boosters. For more info, call Shalheves at 718-633-3005
Kol Haloshon:
To hear Rabbi Feldman’s shiur dial 718-906-6400 Then 1-5-10 Then choice 2 Then wait for last recorded shiur
To hear Roiza’s shiur dial 718-906-6400 Then 1-5-10 Then 1 Then wait for last recorded shiur or press 198
GREAT WEEKLY DOSE OF TEFILLAH! We are excited to provide by the following
link http://www.prayingwithfire.org/images/Newsletter45.pdf the forty fifth
issue of the Praying with Passion Series, with the issue focused on Pesukei
D’Zimra produced by The V’Ani Tefillah Foundation. Please spread this
especially useful and inspirational publication to others.
*Question One of the Day:* Very few dates are mentioned in the Torah--but
today is one of them! Where is today’s date mentioned in the Torah? Why is
the date specifically mentioned in that Parsha and context?
*Question Two of the Day:* Having just recited the Musaf Tefillos of the
Shalosh Regalim for 7(EY) or 8 (Chutz LaAretz) days, we recall how we
PLEADED TIME AND TIME AGAIN with Hashem for HIS RACHMANUS--His Mercy in
finally and at long last rebuilding the Bais HaMikdash--as we recited:
“Melech Rachaman...U’Serachem Aleinu V’Ahl Mikdashecha BeRachamecha
HaRabim...[and then reiterated a short while later] Melech Rachaman Rachem
Aleinu...Bahamon Rachamecha.... Yet, in today’s Musaf for Rosh Chodesh, we
make no heartrending appeal for mercy or even any request at all of
Rachmanus in the Musaf bracha--instead only asking in a straightforward
manner that the Mizbe’ach be rebuilt and that we be brought back to
Yerushalayim where we can all rejoice together in the Bais Hamikdash. Why
is there such a difference between these two Tefillos of Musaf--what is the
difference between the Shalosh Regalim and Rosh Chodesh in this regard?
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*Special Note One:* In fact, Rosh Chodesh Iyar is very much related to the
Binyan Bais Hamikdash. The Luach Dovor B’Ito brings that Shlomo HaMelech
began the building of the First Bais HaMikdash today, and that construction
of the foundation of the Second Bais HaMikdash also began today as well (See
Ezra 3:8-13). Let us now daven that today also prove to serve a role in the
building of the Third and Lasting Bais HaMikdash. Even if we see nothing
immediately around us or in front of us, and even if we hear no shofar blast
at this moment, let our acts of Teshuva today serve as a cornerstone for its
Building. Why leave the building to someone else when each and every one of
us is so eminently capable?! Let’s also begin building Today--it’s for
Eternity!
*Special Note Two:* One of the actions that we will take in the Bais
HaMikdash that we are not very used to doing now is
Hishtachava’ah--prostrating oneself to the ground. Undoubtedly, this
Hishtachava’ah will come in direct response to the intense Kedushah and
Ruchniyus experienced upon entering and viewing the Kohanim and the Avodah.
Yet, in the Tefillah of Nishmas we do recite in the here and now--VeChol
Koma Lefonecha Sishtachaveh--and every person standing up shall prostrate
himself before you. How can/do we fulfill this statement? The Chassidic
masters teach the following: Even when one is ostensibly standing straight,
he should feel inwardly as if he is bowed before Hashem--in recognition of
Hashem’s greatness and mastery and one’s own humility--something that every
person should recognize and appreciate--even without a Bais HaMikdash. We
may add that even when reciting the words VaAnachnu Koriim U’Mishtachavim in
Aleinu three times daily, we should experience the moment--envisioning
ourselves in an aura of submission and sanctity--so that we properly reflect
the words that we are expressing. In this merit--may we live to experience
the ultimate Hishtachava’ah speedily and in our days!
*Special Note Three:* The Sefer Ta’amei HaMinhagim (page 251) writes that
our new month of Iyar is tried and tested as a time for refuah, healing,
from the ailments and pains that may affect a person. Why is this so? He
brings the B’nai Yisaschar, who teaches that most weakness and illness come
from foods which do not comport with the person’s nature or composition.
The Rambam (Hilchos De’os 4:15) writes likewise. See also Kitzur Shulchan
Aruch Chapter 32.
Since the Mon began to fall in this month (on the 16th day of Iyar
2448)--and it was a perfect food from which resulted no sickness, pain or
even waste matter (as Dovid HaMelech refers to it in Sefer Tehillim--”lechem
abirim”) and even cured those who were ill--Hashem left the curative nature
of the month in effect even through today. Accordingly, Iyar is a time of
“segulah l’refuah”. In fact, the Ta’amei HaMinhagim notes, the name “Iyar”
is an acronym for Ani Hashem Rofecha--I am Hashem, Your Healer.
What can we do to help promote the curative effects of this special time as
initiated by the heavenly Mon? Let us reflect upon the following. The
Baalei Mussar note that one afflicted with Tzora’as does not ask others
directly to pray for him--rather, “VeTameh Tameh Yikra”--he only exclaims
that he is “Tameh”, and those who hear him are expected to pray sincerely
for him even without his direct request--and notwithstanding that he has
sinned to such a great extent that Hashem has actually made him a Metzora.
What a great lesson we can learn at this time of year--which is so special
for healing, and, moreover, the Omer period, in which our “Bein Odom
L’Chavero” is to be seriously improved upon. We should not wait to be
asked, or merely be responsive to the request of others, when we hear that
someone is not well. Instead, we should “hear the cry” and go out of our
way during this auspicious time to daven for those we may not even know, but
whom we have heard are in need of a Refuah. An ounce of Tefillah may mean a
kilogram of cure.
PRACTICAL SUGGESTION: During this special month, recite a daily special,
sincere Kepitel (chapter) of Tehillim for your list of cholim--recognizing
that this is a special time for the potency--and importance--of your
heartfelt Tefillah!
Additional Note: A reader wrote the following to us: Rabbi Nachman of
Breslov writes that the word IYAR is Roshei Taivos of the words ”Oyvai
Yoshuvu Yaivoshu Roga,” thus indicating that the month of IYAR is conducive
to see a Mapala for the enemies of K’lal Yisroel!” Hakhel Note: When
reciting Tachanun during this month we should have especial Kavannah when
reciting these words--that they come to immediate reality--with the events
of the past week continuing into the present month!
*Special Note Four:* As we begin this, the Ninth Month of the Year, we
continue our program of especially emphasizing one Ani Ma’amin a month--this
month with the Ninth Ani Ma’amin--that this Torah will not be exchanged, and
that there will not be another Torah from the Creator. Nothing will be
added or subtracted--the Torah will never change. When reciting this Ani
Ma’amin, or Torah Tzivah Lanu Moshe, or when reciting Birchos
Hatorah--recognize the Torah’s greatness--it is here now with you --TO BE
AND TO REMAIN AS IT ALWAYS WAS--FOR ALL TIME!
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Hakhel MIS
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from Hakhel: By popular request, we provide our Checklist for Erev Pesach 5771--a bit in advance--so you don’t have to wait for *everything* until the last moment.
CHECKLIST FOR EREV PESACH 5771 [ ] Thanks to Hashem [ ] Shalom Bayis (throughout everything on list)
Simanim for the Seder: [ ] Charoses [ ] Zeroah [ ] Maror [ ] Roasted Baitzah [ ] Radishes or other Karpas [ ] Salt Water
[ ] Burning of the Chometz [ ] Haircut [ ] Cut nails [ ] Mikvah
[ ] Open wine and grape juice bottles [ ] Cut Paper Towels [ ] Open Tissues [ ] Open soda bottles (for those who do not do so on Yom Tov) [ ] Open diapers (for those who do not do so on Yom Tov) [ ] Open boxes and plastic bags
[ ] The right size Becher for every person
[ ] String or rubberbands around Chometz Doors—Mark as “Sold”
[ ] Clean Kittel [ ] Heseyba Pillow(s) at the seats [ ] Seder Candles for both days
[ ] 48 hour candle [ ] Everybody has Hagaddah that is right for them [ ] Knowing where everybody sits (Seating cards are beautiful)
[ ] Brush teeth thoroughly [ ] Make sure Chometz broom is available for Erev Pesach morning [ ] Pesach toothbrushes, toothpaste and mouthwash [ ] Nothing left in the car [ ] Ensure that everything is Non-Shatnez
[ ] Call three people who would really appreciate it to wish them a Good Yom Tov:__________________,___________________, ___________________.
[ ] Remove all tags from new clothing and from cleaners [ ] Open Matzah boxes and check for Kefulos and Nefuchos [see http://star-k.org/kashrus/kk-passover-matzoh.htm] [ ] If appropriate, Matzah and/or Maror measured out and put into Ziploc bags in order to save *valuable* time at the Seder.
[ ] Empty (or throw out) vacuum cleaner bag. [ ] Eruv Chatzeiros. [ ] Close all lights in the refrigerator and freezer [ ] Set Shabbos clocks to go off very late on Seder night
[ ] Try to sleep in the afternoon [ ] Make sure you have a Pesachdik Blech [ ] If you have and use the “Sabbath” mode on your oven for Yom Tov (acceptable to your Posek), set it
[ ] Ask Rav any Shailos [ ] Make sure that you know (or have available) the Tenai of the Avnei Nezer
[ ] Commit (*bli neder*) not to get angry at the Seder [ ] Other: _________________________________
The boys in Japan have been imprisoned for 3 years now. We are planning a
world-wide Tehillim kinus for women at the beginning of April, which will
be a critical point for the boys in their trial. Rabbi Nazri who is involved
with the boys, has asked us to make our Tehillim kinusim on Sunday evening
April 3rd-which is the day before rosh chodesh Nissan. We would like to get
as many cities as possible to join in. Please let us know if you would be
willing to help organize a kinus in your community.
UPCOMING SHIUR
Our shiur next Wednesday, March 23 will be given by Leibel Burnham from
Detroit, Michigan. This will be the third time that Rabbi Burnham will be
joining. His shiruim are always interesting and informative. His topic wil
be,
Sponsorships are still available for this shiur. Do you have a yorzeit
coming up, or is there someone you know who needs a refuah shelaima.
Sponsoring an Aneinu teleconference shiur, is a big zchus.
Time: 9:15 PM
Phone Number: 212-990-8000
Pin number 8020 #
Our shiur last night was given by Rabbi Tuvia Vinisksy, and it was about
understanding the greatness of Esther HaMalka. Esther HaMallka saved Klal
Yisroel as only a women can and she used 'bina'-intuition; an intuitive
and thorough understanding of life, something Rabbi Vinisksy explained that
is more common in women than in men. We tend to think of Haman and
Achervious as buffoons, but they were very smart people-they were running a
huge empire. But all of that smartness, and logic was outdone by the simple
'bina' from a simple girl from Shushan.
All women possess this bina and an example of how we have used it in the
past is in the Midbar with the Sin of the Egel, Logically, the Egel made
sense to the men, but the women with their 'bina' understood that it was
wrong to do. So too with Esther,and we see this manifested many times in
the megila :
- there were 3 courtyards , one leading into the other. The first courtyard
was for everyone, and the third was for the King. No one was allowed to
enter the 2nd courtyard, unless the King summoned you. if you went into the
2nd courtyard without being summoned by the king,you could be killed When
Mordechai told Esther to go to the King, Esther HaMalka took 1 step, into
the 2nd courtyard and stopped. She did not continue and walk into the 3rd
courtyard-just 1 foot in center courtyard and stood there. She knew, that
when the King saw her standing there, standing like a Queen with that
confidence and her beauty - he would not kill her. And she was right, he
extended his scepter and allowed her to come in. Somehow she knew it was the
alright, because of her bina.
Esther Hamlaka is considered one of the 7 main prophetesses that
we have. Interestingly enough, she only received one prophecy in her life,
but it was so important that she is considered one of our 7 prophetesses.
She received the prophecy when she entered Achashverosh's chamber , and
Hashem let her know that she was doing the right thing. The question is,
what did she do to deserve prophecy? It was her 'bitochon' not only in
Hashem but in the chachomim-she did not flinch when Mordechai told her that
she must go to the King even if meant losing her life. And when she
received this prophecy and she knew Hashem was with her, her heart opened up
to encapsulate the heart of all the Yidden and she was deserving of
receiving 'malcus'-royalty.
At the end of the shiur, Rabbi Vinisksy, explained to us, that most
of us feel that at the end of the story, everyone lives happily ever after.
But he said, it is important to note, that Esther HaMalka was married to the
'Hitler' " of her generation and she bore this Hitler a son, Darovashe. It
is a lesson to be learned from Esther HaMalka, that she understood that this
is what Hashem wanted from her and she did it unquestionably.
To hear the shiur on Kol Haloshon,
Dail 718-906-6400 or their Toronto number 416 800 2146
Then you do not need to listen to the prompts, just press
1-5-10'
Then you are given 2 choices 1 or 2
Choose 1
And Then 194
We have a great web site, www.aneinu.com-you can check it out
PURIM 5771 Can you think of at least one person who needs a shidduch? If you answered yes, you should continue to read this.
Year after year, thousands upon thousands have joined from across the world to help their fellow Jew…
This year you too can do the same!
We have spanned the globe in ways we never imagined and this year we hope to only surpass our previous efforts!
We urge you to join us in what we hope will be our biggest “gathering” yet! Purim has a koach of tefillah like no other day in the Jewish calendar; even our Day of Judgment is called Yom HaKippurim (LIKE Purim). We cannot fathom the power of each and everyone of our tefillos and it is with this in mind that we urge you to join us in achdus this Purim to possibly make a difference in the lives of those you love.
This Purim we are once again trying, as members of Klal Yisroel, to help one another find their b’sheret, one perek of Tehillim at a time. We are trying to complete Sefer Tehillim as many times as possible as a z'chus for shidduchim for all those in need. On Purim day at 10:00am Eastern Daylight Saving Time (UTC -4h), we ask that you recite the perek/perakim of Tehillim that you have been assigned and have in mind the name(s) that you are davening for. It can be yourself, your sibling, a friend, classmate, co-worker, WHOEVER. The idea is that you’re focusing on that person. At 10:00am we are going to read off all the names we have compiled and finish Sefer Tehillim one last time. Our hope is that by davening for one another Hakodosh Baruch Hu will see our efforts and in turn answer our tefillos b’shah tova, b’karov.
1. Type the Hebrew name (Person’s name, son (ben)/daughter (bas) of, Mother’s name. For example: Dovid Yitzchok ben Sara Malka) of the person you are davening for and the required information. For each name you submit to us you commit to say a perek of Tehillim accordingly. Your perek will immediately be confirmed in the grey box at the top of the page once you hit submit. Please leave yourself a separate reminder so that you do not forget to say your perek/perakim of tehillim.
2. At 10:00am Eastern Daylight Saving Time (UTC -4h) on Purim Day, Sunday, March 20, 2010/ 14 Adar 5771 say the perek/perakim you’ve been assigned.
3. Send this E-mail to all those you know!
TIZKU L’MITZVOS! MAY ALL YOUR TEFILLOS BE ANSWERED L’TOVA!! WISHING YOU AND YOURS A FREILICHEN PURIM! -PURIM 5771
To sponsor a day of tehillim or to sponsor our event please contact us by e-mail at donations@worldwidetehillim.org. Please note any contributions are welcomed and greatly appreciated. Your donation is tax deductible.
Rav Avraham Schorr Shlita on the power of prayer on Purim Kotton. He quoted a Chidushei Harim that explained a reason for the mitzvah of “chayav inush lbisumei bepuryah”, the mitzvah of drinking on Purim. He told a story that happened in the times of the Bal Shem Tov. There was a terrible decree against the Jews, everybody prayed and did various Mitzvos but nothing changed and the decree was still in place. Finally the Bal Shem Tov instructed one of his followers to go to a distant town and find a certain drunkard and bring him back to the Bal Shem Tov. The messenger was advised not to allow the drunkard to drink so that he would be sober when he was brought to the Bal Shem Tov. When the drunkard was brought to the Bal Shem Tov, he asked the drunkard for a bracha that the decree be abolished, he gave a bracha and immediately the decree was annulled.
The Bal Shem Tov explained to his close followers that this person had done an unbelievable mitzvah of saving a girl; the mitzvah of Pidyun Shevuyim, and in shamayim it was decreed that whatever this person would ask for would be granted immediately. Suddenly in shamayim there was a big debate, how can a simple person be given such unbelievable power of blessing, maybe he will use it for the wrong things? So they decreed that he would be a drunkard all the time so he would not even realize this power that was given to him.
“THE CHIDUSHEI HARIM EXPLAINED THAT ON PURIM THERE IS A LAW THAT “KOL HAPOSHET YAD NOSNIN”. Translated: ANYONE WHO ASKS YOU HAVE TO GIVE. THIS IS TRUE ALSO REGARDING PRAYING, WHEN WE DAVEN TO HASHEM HE HAS TO ANSWER OUR REQUESTS.
SO TO COUNTER THIS UNBELIEVABLE POWER OF PRAYER, THE CHACHOMIM MADE THE LAW OF DRINKING ON PURIM SO THAT WE DON’T USE THE DAY FOR PRAYING FOR THE WRONG THINGS. THE CHIDUSHEI HARIM CONTINUES THAT IF SOMEBODY FEELS THAT HE WANTS TO BE SMARTER THEN THE CHACHOMIM AND HE WON’T DRINK AND WILL SIT AND DAVEN ALL DAY LONG, HE IS WRONG FOR NOT LISTENING TO THE CHACHOMIM.”
THE MISHNA IN MEGILLAH THAT SAYS “EIN BAIN ADAR RISHON L’ADAR SHENIE ELE KRIAS MEGILLAH UMATONAS LEVYONIM BILVAD” Translated: THERE IS NO DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE FIRST ADAR AND THE SECOND ADAR ONLY THAT YOU CAN NOT DO YOUR OBLIGATION OF READING MEGILLAH AND PRESENTS FOR THE POOR.
THE POWER OF PRAYER REMAINS EXACTLY THE SAME; HOWEVER, BY THE FIRST ADAR THE RABBIS DID NOT MAKE AN OBLIGATION TO DRINK. SO HERE WE HAVE A DAY THAT HAS THE TREMENDOUS POWER OF PRAYER AND THE CHACHOMIM DID NOT COUNTER IT WITH AN OBLIGATION TO DRINK.
LET US USE THIS FRIDAY-YUD DALED ADAR-FEBRUARY 18, 2011 TO DAVEN TO H-ASHEM FOR ALL THE RIGHT THINGS, KLAL YISROEL IS LIVING THROUGH DIFFICULT TIMES AND THERE ARE MANY THINGS TO DAVEN FOR...WE SHOULD BE ALL BE ZOCHE TO SEE MOSHIACH BMIHERA BYOMEINU.
Zechus Nishmas Moshe Dovid ben Pincus Dov. Refuah Sheleymah Aaron ben Zissel Rochel
Having admired the enormous success of the Baltimore program operated by Star-K, and the Queens Shidduch Initiative, several members of the Toronto Jewish Community have launched a similar program. Star-K's novel attempt at remedying the universal singles problem locally, was made with the twin hope of inspiring the launching of similar programs by organizations and individuals in other 'out-of-town' communities. Consider us inspired. Star-K has paid Shadchanim for 134 matches to date.
The Toronto Shadchan Incentive Program is offering a $2,000 gift to the Shadchan of a Toronto woman aged 23 or over. The Shadchan Incentive Program hopes that B'ezras Hashem its gift will act as a dual incentive. Professional shadchanim worldwide will place Toronto women on the top of their singles lists, and 'would-be shadchanim' and acquaintances will have extra incentive to keep Toronto women in mind.
For the shadchan of a successful shidduch to qualify for this gift, there are certain conditions and guidelines that apply. Those guidelines can be viewed at http://www.shidduchroundtable.com. All guidelines have been reviewed and approved by Rabbi Shlomo Miller, Shlita.
In an article about the Star-K program the author writes that "Perhaps these Star-K shidduchim would have been made in any case, despite the Star-K incentive. Who knows? One thing is for sure. Klal Yisroel can only stand to gain when we have the welfare of our fellow yidden in mind, by putting forth the effort to help our singles - wherever they live - build a bayis ne'eman b'Yisroel!"
We are hopeful that Toronto will mirror the success of Baltimore and Queens and that we can assist Jewish singles in finding their shidduch. Please email info@shidduchroundtable.com with any questions or comments.
There is a well known segula for parnasa, to say Parshas Hamon, http://www.718insurance.com/pdf/parnasah.pdf "shnayim mikra ve'eched targum" (2 times the posuk and 1 time the Targum Unkelos), on the Tuesday before Parshas Beshalach is read. The source of this custom is Reb Menachem Mendel of Rimanov, one of the four primary disciples of the Noam Elimelech. Reb Sholom of Stropkov used to say this over in the name of the Rimanover. Reb Mendel of Rimanov expounded on Parshas Hamon for 22 years; many of these explanations are available in print. It is therefore understandable that he is the source of this minhag; if anyone really understood the meaning of Parshas Hamon, it was him. http://www.tefillos.com/parshas_hamon.asp
The halachic works say that it is a good thing to read Parshas Hamon everyday. (Tur 1; Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 1:5; Aruch Hashulchan 1:22; Shulchan Aruch HaRav 1:9). Shevet Mussar says that the segula of Parshas Hamon is when it's read "shnayim mikra ve'eched targum" and Siddur Segulas Yisroel says to say it with the cantillation. The common custom seems to be to read each posuk once, without cantillation, aside from the Tuesday of Beshalach.
Mishna Berura quotes the Yerushalmi in Brochos that says one who says Parshas Haman will not lack sustenance, and quoting the Taz says that reading it alone isn't sufficient, but one has to understand from the reading that our sustenance come about through Divine intervention. By reading the account of how Klal Yisroel was sustained by Hashem in the desert for 40 years, we ingrain in ourselves that our livelihood comes about only because Hashem wills it. So, if one reads Parshas Hamon religiously and despite this feels the need to cheat or lie to make a living, he did not learn anything from Parshas Hamon. It's not a magic incantation but an affirmation of Hashem being the "Hand that feeds us". (Remember the Kav Hayosher says that one who is honest in business is a complete tzadik.)http://zchusavos.blogspot.com/2007/08/who-is-tzadik-gamur.html
The great Mashgiach of Lakewood, Rav Matisyahu Salomon shlita was asked how there are some people that daven so intensely and in their business they treat employees and associates in such a horrible manner. He answered that when these people say "Boreich Aleinu" in Shemonah Esrei, they are thinking: "Hashem, I'm a pretty smart guy and developed a successful business. Please don't interfere and mess things up." That is how these people who seem to daven so "ehrlich" in the morning go into their offices and treat everyone like trash; they think it's their smarts making the money and don't really believe that all is from Hashem.
The Orchos Tzadikim (Shaar HaAnavah) says that there are three reasons why Hashem gives people wealth: 1) As a reward. These are people that use their money for good causes and will nevert hurt others with their wealth.) 2) As a test. How will they handle the money? 3) As Nekamah (revenge). These are the people who are wealthy and take advantage and trample over those not as fortunate.) I believe that when we work and think that it's our own smarts that make us money that puts us in category 3 – a punishment, because if we don't realize that it's Hashem giving us the money we will probably not handle it correctly. When we acknowledge that all our livelihood comes from Hashem, such as by reciting Parshas Hamon, we can put ourselves into the category 1 – a reward, because by realizing that Hashem gives us whatever we have, we have a better chance of handling the money properly.
On the Tuesday of Parshas Beshalach, many people read it in middle of Chazoras Hashatz or other parts of davening. You will lose more than you gain by this. Parshas Hamon is a sort of extra credit, but listening to Chazaras Hashatz is required (this deserves a whole article by itself). Don't make a mistake of doing a segula at the expense of actual Halacha; following Halacha is the #1 segula for everything. And don't forget the main thing is the belief that no matter how smart it seems we are, every single penny is from Hashem.
ANEINU SHIUR THIS Wednesday evening, January 5th- we will have an opportunity to hear Rabbi Shaya Ostrov, the author of a recently published book called “The Menucha Principle”. It has taken the Jewish world by storm and Rabbi Ostrov will speak to us about how incorporating this principle will improve our lives immensely.
Rebbetzin Tehilla Jaeger recently wrote the following piece of advice to women: "You owe it to yourself to read, read and internalize this life transforming book." She was referring to The Menuchah Principle in Marriage, by Shaya Ostrov, L.C.S.W. The Menuchah Principle in Marriage was recently published by Judaica Press and presents the deep link between acquiring the mida of Menuchas Hanefesh and achieving Sholom Bayis. Rabbi Ostrov explains that applying the Menucha Priniciple in Marriage is only one of the ways of implementing this mida. The Menucha Principle must guide us in all our dealings with other people; siblings, parents, co-workers. If we incorporate this principle in our day-to-day lives, we will surely see the difference. Rabbi Ostrov hopes to have books out in the future where he will show how to implement this principal in all aspects of our lives.
Mr. Ostrov will be interviewed on our program on Wednesday January 5th at 9:15 PM. We are expecting a big audience, so if you dial the 212 number and can not get on, you can access the shiur through Kol Haloshon, by dialing 416-800-2146 locally, or 718-906-6400 and then waiting to hear the prompt for live shiurim and you can hear the shiur live. The only difference is that on Kol Haloshon you can not participate in the question and answer peiod.
Sponsorships are still available for the shiur. Please ask your group if they would like to sponsor this shiur, l’refuah shelaima or l’zachar nishmas a loved one. This shiur is heard many times over on Kol Haloshon.
At the beginning of the shirum, please mute yourself by pressing star 6. This way, when we open the line at the end of the shiur, if you have background noise, please keep yourself muted, because the background conversations do disturb our speaker and listeners . If you do not have background noise, and wish to participate in the question and answer period, please unmute yourself by pressing star 6. If your phone has a mute button, you can use that instead of star 6 Thank you for understanding.
Time: 9:15 PM Phone Number: 212-990-8000 Pin number 8020 #
TEHILLIM NAMES Menucha Bas Faigie Raizel Zissel bas Chaya Gittel Tova Rina bas Esther Yisroel Chanun Shmuel ben Malka Tova Rina Bas Esther
Our shiur last week, was a given by a true friend of Aneinu, Roiza Weinreich. She is always there for us. Her shiur was on the topic, Ashreinu, How Great To Be A Yid. The shiur was based on Perek Nun Alef of Yishaha-it is one of the seven haftoras of nechama that we read. It starts with Posuk Yud bais where Hashem says ‘Onochi Onochi Who Menchamchem” I am the one who comforts you. The question is, why does Hashem say Onochi , Onochi twice? The answer is to tell us that I am the same Onochi as I was by Matan Torah meaning the same loyalty we showed to Hashem during Matan Torah, we continue to show him through our emuna throughout the golus. Hahsem is telling us This is your comfort-Onochi-I am as much a part of your life as I was when I gave you the Torah. And then Hashem say, I introduced myself to you, telling you who I am, Onochi, I am Hashem who gave you the Torah and now tell me, “Me Ut?” Who you are? Do you kno,w who you are? Do you realize you are the children of royalty? Roiza told over 2 beautiful stories to illustrate this point. One was told by Rebbetzin Tzipora Heller about a family from Argentina who weren’t frum and made aliyah. In Eretz Yisroel, the mother discovers Yiddishkiet. When her husband gets a major heart-attack and the doctors give up on him and say his time is near, she says to her husband, You are going to die and when you go up to heaven they are going to ask you, Me Ut-who are you? You have no mitzvos to your name, you are going to go up barren. And she quickly borrowed a pair of tefillin from someone in the hospital , put it on her husband….and he lived and the whole family became frum. She also told over a beautiful story from the Bobover Rebbe, Rav Shlomo Halberstam-how he taught this concept to a young boy during World War Two. She explained that” Me U”t-who are you? is what we have to ask ourselves. Chazal say on this –why are you afraid in golus? Do you not realize that you are the children of Avrohom, Yitzchok and Yaakov-you are the children of the 3 mountains of the world? Why then are you afraid? Could it be that you don’t realize your greatness? But what does it mean to be the daughter of Avrohom Aveinu. Avrohom Aveinu’s love to Hashem was very deep, so deep that he was willing to sacrifice his life in the burning furnace to glorify Hashem’s name. Because of his love of Hashem, Hashem gave him a gift which was that Avrohom Aveinu’s love will become part of every’s Yid heart in every generation and how will this love continue in every Yid’s heart in every generation? Because Hashem syas he will hallways love Avrohom Aveinu’s descendants and they will always love him and this is called –a pintele Yid. That in every Jewish heart lies that pintele Yid-no matter how far he strays from Hashem, Hashem always loves him and we have to feel that love of Hashem to us, we have to find that love because it is there for us to grab onto and that will bring us back. Roiza brought up many beautiful points. I will end with another beautiful point that she made. Twice a day, we say Shema Yisrael-listen Yisrael-who is Yisrael? In the Sefer Dibros Eliyahu. Eliyahu Hanavi explains what it means that we are Yisrael? What is signified by the name Yisrael. We know that Yaakov fought with the malach (angel ) of Eisav. At the end of the fight, Yaakov asked the angel to bless him, he blessed him by changing his name from Yaakov to Yisrael. The question is asked, what sort of blessing is having your name changed? The answer is, that Yisroel stands for Shir Kale-the same letters that are in the name Yisrael are in the words Shir kale- which means sing to G-d. What was the angel of Eisav telling Yaakov, that no matter what situation a Yid finds himself in, he will always be able to sing to Hashem and that is the brocha that no matter what happens to us, we sing to Hashem and that is the highest level a Yid can attain in this world-to sing to Hashem even while going through nisyonos.
To hear the shiur on Kol Haloshon
416-800-2146 or 718-906-6400 Then 1-5-10 Then 1 Then 183
TEHILLIM FOR WOMEN AND GIRLS FOR EREV ROSH CHODESH SHEVAT
This Wednesday afternoon, January 5th at 1:00 PM we will be having our Tehillim teleconference for erev rosh chodesh shevat.
SPEAKER:RABBI DOVID WEINBERGER, RAV OF SHARREI TEFILA IN LAWRENCE NEW YORK AND THE RABBINIC ADVISOR TO ANEINU Phone Number: 212-990-8000 pin number 6060#
Tzirel Rubin will lead us in saying 6 perakim of Tehillim .
We will Be Saying Perakim #20, 83, 121, 130, 142 and 100.
Rav Eliyahu Eliezer Dessler, whose yahrtzeit is today, 24 Teves, is best known as the author of MichtavMe’Eliyahu, the most influential and widely disseminated work of hashkafa of the last century. Just as it is said of the Chofetz Chaim, zt”l, that his phenomenal tzidkus obscured his greatness in learning, so it could be said of Rabbi Eliyahu Eliezer Dessler’s that his greatness as a thinker has obscured the magnitude of his impact as a builder of Torah institutions.
23rd of Teves is the 10th yarzeit of Rav Gifter of Telz
By his grandson, Rav Chaim Charlap*
Ten years have gone by since the passing of Rosh Mishpachtainu, a leader of Klal Yisroel, the Telzer Rosh Yeshiva Rav Mordecai Gifter zt”l. What more can be said that has not yet been mentioned? There is one aspect of his life has not been addressed - his warm and deep relationship with his first son-in-law, Rav Ephraim Eisenberg zt”l, a master maggid shiur at Yeshivas Ner Yisroel in Baltimore, who was niftar ton 16 Sivan 5762.
My father-in law, Rav Ephraim zt”l, was a talmid muvhak of Rav Ruderman zt”l, Rosh Yeshivas Ner Yisroel. Rav Ruderman loved his prize student and suggested him as a son-in-law to his close friend Rav Gifter. After the engagement, Rav Gifter wrote a letter to the Steipler zt”l informing him of the shidduch. He asked the Steipler to please send a telegram to the chosson and kalla to give them a Bracha. The Steipler answered Rav Gifter, “Although it is difficult for me to stand in line in the Post Office, I know I am
obligated to do so out of respect for Rav Gifter’s greatness in Torah.” The Steipler then wrote a heartwarming bracha: “May they be zocheh to a beautiful marriage…upright children…good fortune in ruchnius and gashmius…The chosson…grow in Torah and yiras shamayim and be marbitz Torah in Klal Yisroel.” The Steipler’s bracha was fulfilled and Rav Ephraim zt”l
became an exceptional marbitz Torah and molded hundreds of talmidim in Torah and yiras shamayim.
Rav Gifter wrote a treasure of letters to Rav Ephraim’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. Herman (Chaim) Eisenberg z”l, founders of Torah education in Hartford, Connecticut. These letters are testimony to Rav Gifter’s great love of my fatherin- law, Rav Ephraim. In one letter the Zeide writes: “Ephraim’s Torah is of inestimable value. I consider him a yachid s’gula b”h in many respects…I consider Reb Ephraim’s Torah a zchus for all of us.” He then
relates the following story that has been passed down for generations in our family. Our great great grandfather, Reb Leizer Telzer, married the daughter of Reb Avrohom Itzel Novazer z”l, a Dayan in Kovno. His father-in-law helped him financially for many years as the family grew. Once his mother-in-law asked, “How long will we continue to support him? When will he go out and get a Rabbanus?” Reb Avrohom Itzel answered, “Who knows if we are sustaining him or if he is sustaining us? We are living in the merit of his Torah
learning.” The day that Reb Leizer accepted his first position as a Rav his father-in-law passed away. This is our Mesora. This is how the Torah wants us to view our children who are sitting and learning. We are being sustained by them.
The 8th day of Chanukah is known as "Zos Chanukah" (in earlier times it was called "Chanukas Hamiz'beach") named for the Torah portion we read. The day is mesugal for one to daven for; barren women to have children, for a Refuah Sheleimah, and for one to be blessed with increased Parnassah.
On the 8th day of Chanukah some have the minhag to say Mizmor Lesodah (tehillim 100) and Nishmas Kol Chai at night after lighting; and to make a special seudah during the day. Some Sefardim have the minhag to make a seuda for the young schoolchildren and to say Shir Hashirim with them before beginning the seudah, and to say the possuk "Shuvu Shivru Lanu Me'at Oichel" 8 times.
In this weeks Parsha, Yaakov leaves Be'er Sheva and travels to Charon. He came to a place and rested there for the night. He had a dream about a ladder with Malachim going up and down. בראשית כח: י-יב
Rashi teaches us the place refers to Har Hamoria. The Malachim that were going up were the Malachim that escorted Yaakov in Eretz Yisroel and the ones coming down were the ones that escorted Yaakov in Chutz Learetz. The Malachim from Eretz Yisroel didn't leave Eretz Yisroel and the Malachim of Chutz Learetz had to take their place.
Q: We know Har Hamoria is located in Yerushalayim. We don't find anywhere in Tanach that Yerushalayim is referred to as being close to the border of Eretz Yisroel. There is still a long way to go that Yaakov could have been escorted by the Malachim of Eretz Yisroel. Why did the Malachim of Eretz Yisroel leave while Yaakov was still at Har Hamoria?
A: While Yaakov slept, Rashi brings down that the entire land of Eretz Yisroel was folded up and under Yaakov. Yaakov needed just one step to exit Eretz Yisroel!
ויהי כאשר הקריב לבא מצרימה ויאמר אל שרי אשתו הנה נא ידעתי כי אשה יפת מארה את. בראשית יב:יא
And it occurred, as he was about to come to Egypt, he said to his wife Sarai, "Behold, now that I have known that you are a woman of handsome appearance." Baraishis 12:11
The Torah describes four people as being handsome of appearance (יפת מארה) and/or (יפת תאר) handsome of form:
- Sarai (in the above verse) - Rochel (Bereishis 29:17) - Yosef (Bereishis 39:6) - The woman who is handsome of form (Devarim 21:11).
1) Why do Rachel and Joseph have both attributes but Sarai has only one attribute, handsome of appearance?
2) Why does the woman who is handsome of form have only one attribute?
3) Why are Rachel and Joseph described as being handsome of form first and then handsome of appearance? Why do we not start with the head, the most important organ of the body?
Have an answer to any of these questions? Post your answers in the comment section below and you may qualify to receive a free copy of Kuntrus Ramach Avarim, Bareishis Chalek 1 and 2!
Important Numbers
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