Uncategorized
Pesach Sheni
BS”D
We got the following 2 articles from Chabad.org
Another Opportunity Granted
Pesach Sheni (“the Second Pesach”) is celebrated on the 14th of Iyar, a month after the eve of Pesach. The Torah1 re lates that in the first year after the Exodus, when the Jewish people were preparing to bring the Pesach sacrifice:
There were [certain] men who were impure because [they had come in contact with a] human corpse and they could not bring the Pesach offering on that day. They came before Moshe… and said, “We are un clean… [but] why should we be held back from bringing the offering of G‑d in its time?…”
And Moshe said to them, “Stand and hear what G‑d will command concerning you.”
G‑d said…, “If any man be impure… or on a distant way [on the day of the Pesach offering]…, he shall sacrifice the Pesach offering to G‑d, in the second month, on the fourteenth day at dusk….”
Anyone who did not bring a Pesach offering, whether be cause of impurity or even because he had willfully trans gressed G‑d’s will, was thus given the opportunity to com pensate for his shortcoming by bringing an offering on Pesach Sheni. 2
“It’s Never Too Late!”
The Previous Rebbe explained3 that, “Pesach Sheni teaches us that ‘Nothing is ever lost: it’s never too late!’ Our conduct can always be rectified. Even someone who is impure, who was far away and even desired to be so, can still correct him self.” There is no justification for despair. Every individual, no matter what his situation, always has the potential to make a leap forward (the literal translation of the Hebrew word Pesach) in his service of G‑d.
Given the significance of Pesach Sheni, one might ask: Why was it instituted a full month after Pesach, in the month of Iyar? Wouldn’t it have been better to atone for our defi ciencies at the earliest opportunity, in Nissan?
We can answer this question by comparing the spiritual characteristics of Nissan and Iyar. Nissan is the month of revelation, the month during which G‑d revealed His great ness and redeemed the Jewish people despite their inadequa cies. Iyar, by contrast, is the month of individual endeavor, a quality that is exemplified by the mitzvah of Sefiras HaOmer. 4 The theme of Iyar, self-refinement initiated by the individual himself, is in keeping with the nature of Pesach Sheni, the festival in which an individual who was not motivated by Pesach is given an additional opportunity to elevate himself.
Pesach and Chametz Together
The different stages of divine service represented by Pesach Rishon (the first Pesach) and Pesach Sheni are reflected in one of the halachic differences between them. On Pesach Rishon, all traces of chametz must be obliterated; on Pesach Sheni, although we eat matzah, one may have chametz in one’s possession.5
On Pesach Rishon, hoisted aloft by the Divinely-initiated revelations of the month of Nissan, we strive to reach new heights of spiritual freedom by stepping beyond the limits of our own personalities. This necessitates leaving behind our chametz, i.e., our egotism. Then comes the month of Iyar, with its demand for individual spiritual homework. On Pesach Sheni, accordingly, we concentrate on rectifying and up grading our current levels of conduct.6 And since in this kind of avodah we have to deal with all the current components of our natures, the possession of chametz on Pesach Sheni is permitted.
The Desire Within Our Hearts
In light of this, we can explain why the mitzvah of Pesach Sheni came about in response to the sincere request of indi viduals who were impure. One of the goals of Judaism is to draw holiness — downward, so to speak — into the world. A more important goal, however, is to elevate the world and the worldly aspects of man, to transform all aspects of our being, and bring to the surface the essential G‑dliness within us.
The institution of Pesach Sheni was prompted by the heartfelt desires of those who, despite their impurity, pro tested, “Why should we be prevented from bringing the offer ing of G‑d?”7 The mitzvah was given, not as a commandment from above, but as an expression of man’s inner need to establish a bond with G‑d.
This need exists in potential in every Jewish heart. Man’s plea for “one more chance” reflects the mode of divine serv ice called teshuvah (repentance; lit., “return”). For everyone, even a person who is “on a distant path” possesses a Divine potential which always seeks to realize itself.
Stepping Above Time
The concept of teshuvah helps us understand another difference between Pesach Sheni and Pesach Rishon. Pesach Rishon lasts seven days (and eight in the Diaspora), while Pe sach Sheni is celebrated for only one day.8 A week repre sents the cycle of change that governs our material world. The spiritual experience of Pesach Rishon requires a full week be cause it encompasses the entire cycle of growth and change which must take place within the framework of our worldly existence.
The service of teshuvah, however, requires us to reach be yond our limited, worldly frame of reference and express the unbounded potential of the G‑dly spark within us. This po tential, which transcends the restrictions of the natural world, cannot be confined within the limitations of time. The celebration of Pesach Sheni for one day symbolizes transcen dence. Here, the number one is not the smallest number; in stead, it represents a unity which transcends all numerical values.
The time-transcending quality of teshuvah is exemplified by the Talmudic account9 of R. Eliezer ben Durdaya. Although he had led a wanton life, when he felt compelled to do teshuvah he experienced an internal transformation so in tense that his soul departed from his body as he wept in re morse. When R. Yehudah HaNasi heard this story, he too wept, exclaiming, “There are those who attain [their share in] the World [to Come] after many years [of divine service], and there are others who attain [their share in] the World [to Come] in one moment.”
Chassidic thought explains that R. Yehudah HaNasi was reacting with a positive form of envy, for he realized that R. Eliezer ben Durdaya’s teshuvah surpassed his own spiritual heights.
Continuous Growth
Although Pesach Sheni was initially instituted for those who had not offered the Pesach sacrifice in its proper time, its spiritual expression in our divine service is relevant to all Jews, even those who have celebrated Pesach as completely as possible.10
The Pesach sacrifice was intended to motivate every in dividual to leave his personal Egypt, to make a radical depar ture from his previous spiritual state and approach a new, higher, level of divine service. The departure from Egypt is a continuous process;11 we must constantly proceed forward. No matter what heights a person has reached, he should not remain content with the level he has attained and must always seek to advance further. For the G‑dly potential within us is infinite.
In the month of Iyar, therefore, the offering brought on Pesach Rishon becomes insufficient. Since the passage of time has afforded us the opportunity of reaching greater heights in our divine service, it is necessary for us to bring another offering on Pesach Sheni.
The necessity for constant spiritual striving is illustrated by reference to the laws regulating ritual purity.12 There are several successive states of purity and impurity. For example, and in ascending order, someone who is considered pure with regard to Chullin (non-sacramental food) may be deemed impure with regard to the more stringent demands of Maaser Sheni (the Second Tithe, which must be eaten in Jeru salem only while in state of purity). By the same token, someone who is considered pure with regard to Maaser Sheni may still be impure with regard to Terumah (the portion of grain given to the Kohanim). Similarly, one who is pure in re gard to Terumah might still be impure for the purpose of partaking of the sacrifices offered in the Beis HaMikdash.
These categories are paralleled in our divine service. Though an individual may have been “pure” at his level of divine service on the 14th of Nissan, his progress since then renders his previous status unsatisfactory. Relative to his pre sent level of attainment, his previous state is “impure”, and he is therefore obligated to bring a second Pesach offering.
We find that a pattern of continuous growth — “They shall proceed from strength to strength” — is associated with “appear[ing] before G‑d in Zion.”13 May the personal growth motivated by Pesach Sheni prepare us for the time when the Beis HaMikdash will be rebuilt and we will partake of the Pesach offerings and the other festive offerings.14 And may this take place in the immediate future.
Adapted from Likkutei Sichos, Vol. XVIII, Parshas Behaalos’cha; the Sichos of Motzaei Shabbos Parshas Emor, 5738
“It’s never too late. There’s always a second chance.” This, according to Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn (the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, 1880-1950), is the message of Pesach Sheini, the biblically ordained “second Passover” for those who fail to bring the Passover offering on its designated time.
We all relate to a statement like, “There’s always a second chance.” It soothes our harried souls, and fits nicely on the December 31 page of an Inspirational Sayings Desk Calendar. But how does it mesh with real day-to-day life? I took a small neighborhood survey.
“Well,” said Sarah L., a neighbor, “I missed the 6:22 coming home yesterday evening and spent 35 minutes in the station reading a two-day-old newspaper — time I would have used to tell my daughter a bedtime story, if I’d gotten home in time. I’ll make that train today (I hope) but yesterday’s 6:22 ain’t ever coming ever again…”
“Well,” said Jeffery H., a successful divorce lawyer, “twenty years ago I knew a wonderful girl that I wanted to marry. At one point, the words were at the tip of my tongue, and I just knew that she’d say ‘Yes’. But the moment passed and I never did pop the question. I have no regrets — I’m happily married today — but that moment will never come back… Not in this lifetime, anyway.”
“Well,” said Forrest G., a business tycoon I know, “back in high school I had a friend who asked me if I thought he ought to go into politics. Now, this is the last guy in the world you’d want as head of state and commander-in-chief of a superpower. But I didn’t want to hurt his feelings, so I said, ‘Sure, go for it.’ I don’t have to tell you what a mess this guy made of our world during the eight years he was in office. That’s one decision that’s too late to change…”
What do we mean when we talk about a “second chance?” Is it the ability to step into a capsule, be transported to a previous point in time, jostle aside our previous, misguided self, and do it the right way this time? But if that’s all there’s to it, what has been gained? We could just as well have done it right the first time!
The Torah’s idea of teshuvah (“return”) is not just the undoing or correcting of a past error. Rather, teshuvah is about transforming the past. It means reaching back to change the significance and the consequences of what happened, so that the end-result is better than what would have been had it not occurred.
Sarah L.: “You know, if I’m honest about it, the truth is that even if I would have made that train, I would have sat and read through that bedtime story as quickly as I could, just because I’d promised my daughter that I would. My mind was on other things that day. But the fact that I missed the train and broke my promise made me realize how much my daughter needs me — and not just my physical presence, but also my attention and mindfulness. Tonight, I’m going to sit with her on her bed and really talk — something that we haven’t done for longer than I care to remember…”
Jeffery H.: “You know, there is nothing that I value more than my marriage. I believe that the woman I married is my destined soulmate, the one who is truly the only person in the world for me. The more I think about it, the more I see that ‘missed opportunity’ in my past as a perpetual challenge to experience — and surpass — that degree of yearning and hope in our own relationship. I say to myself: If I was able to see such promise and depth of feeling in that false lead, how much more so in the real thing! It makes me fall in love with my wife all over again every day of my life.”
As for my business tycoon friend, instead of retiring (as he planned to do at 65), he’s been working day and night to fix the mess that guy made. Let’s see what he comes up with.
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )“Something to Think About!”
BS”D
Another amazing e-mail from our friends around the world:
Washington, DC Metro Station on a cold January morning in 2007.
The man with a violin played six Bach pieces for about 45 minutes.
During that time, approx. 2 thousand people went through the station, most of them on their way to work.
After 3 minutes:
a middle aged man noticed there was a musician playing. He slowed his pace and stopped for a few seconds and then hurried to meet his schedule.
4 minutes later:
The violinist received his first dollar: a woman threw the money in the hat and, without stopping, continued to walk.
6 minutes:
A young man leaned against the wall to listen to him, then looked at his watch and started to walk again.
10 minutes:
A 3-year old boy stopped but his mother tugged him along hurriedly.
The kid stopped to look at the violinist again, but the mother pushed hard and the child continued to walk, turning his head all the time.
This action was repeated by several other children.
Every parent, without exception, forced their children to move on quickly.
45 minutes:
The musician played continuously.
Only 6 people stopped and listened for a short while.
About 20 gave money, but continued to walk at their normal pace.
The man collected a total of $32.
1 HOUR:
He finished playing and silence took over. No one noticed. No one applauded, nor was there any recognition.
Findings:
No one knew this, but the violinist was Joshua Bell, one of the greatest musicians in the world. He played one of the most intricate pieces ever written, with a violin worth $3.5 million dollars.
Two days before, Joshua Bell sold-out a theatre in Boston where the price of the seats averaged at $100.
This is a true story!!!
Joshua Bell, playing incognito in the Metro Station was organized by the Washington Post as part of a social experiment about perception, taste, and people’s priorities.
These questions were raised:
“In a common place environment, at an inappropriate hour, do we perceive beauty?
Do we stop to appreciate it?
Do we recognize talent in an unexpected context?”
One possible conclusion reached from this experiment could be this:
If we do not have a moment to stop and listen to one of the best musicians in the world, playing some of the finest music ever written, with one of the most beautiful instruments ever made….
Some parents were EVEN quoted making the following comments:
“Come-on children, he’s just a simple street musician with a fiddle…NOTHING here for us!”
How many other things are we missing?
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
By the way, You, too, can help hasten the coming of Moshiach, by doing ONE more Mitzvah. ***
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Meaning & Reasoning behind Yarmulka (AKA: Kipah)
BS”D
We found the following fascinating article from our friends at AskMoses.com:
Do you know the origin of the Kipah or Yarmulkah?
by Mrs. Yehudis Cohen
A “Yarmulka” (Also Known As: “Kippa”) refers to a Head-covering worn by Jewish Males. It serves as a constant reminder of existence of a Higher Being (meaning: G-d).
The word “Yarmulka” comes from the Aramaic “Yarei Malka” which means: “Fear (or Awe) of the King (meaning: G-d)”. It is a symbol of humility and submission to the Divine.
It is a very ancient custom which has become accepted practice among Jews. The Shulchan Aruch (Code of Jewish Law) rules that a male may not even sit without a head-covering.
Another article which answers a fascinating and everlasting question:
“Can I take off my kipah under certain circumstances?”
which was found at: http://www.askmoses.com/en/article/536,1672264/Can-I-take-off-my-kipah-under-certain-circumstances.html
[The parts in brackets were added to help us better understand the meaning of some of the vocabulary]
Rabbi Shlomo Chein: Welcome. I’ll be with you in a moment…What’s on your mind?
not sure: why do men have to wear a Yarmulka [A “Yarmulka” (Also Known As: “Kippa”) refers to a Head-covering worn by Jewish Males. It serves as a constant reminder of existence of a Higher Being (meaning: G-d). The word “Yarmulka” comes from the Aramaic “Yarei Malka,” which means: “Fear of the King (meaning: G-d)”. It is a symbol of humility and submission to the Divine (G-d)] at all times? if one wants to be religious does it have to be worn?
not sure: if its to remind us that G-d [It’s forbidden to erase or deface the name of G-d. It’s therefore, Customary to insert a dash in the middle of G-d’s name, allowing us to erase or to discard the paper which it’s written-on, IF necessary] is above, is it still needed if one is aware of that even when not wearing one?
Rabbi Shlomo Chein: when we wear a reminder on our head that is not because we don’t believe so inside. It is to reinforce what we believe, and turn it into an action.
Rabbi Shlomo Chein: in other words, the question would be similar: should someone wear a wedding ring even if they know they love their husband inside?
not sure: can a man be religious if he doesn’t wear one?
Rabbi Shlomo Chein: what is religious? it is a made up term 🙂
not sure: to be religious is to keep the laws of the Torah, [Torah is G-d teaching to man. In general terms, we refer the Five Books of Moses as “The Torah”. But, in truth, ALL Jewish beliefs and laws are part of the Torah] most importantly Shabbos [Also known as Shabbat” with its plural: “Shabbatot”. It’s the Hebrew word meaning of “Rest”. It’s a biblical commandment to sanctify & Saturday which is the Final & seventh day of the week as describe in the Torah. This commemorates the fact that after creating the world in 6 Days, G-d rested on the Seventh] and Kosher [Literally means: “Fit”. It’s commonly used to describe foods which are permitted for consumption in-accordance with Jewish dietary laws, BUT, it’s also used to describe religious articles (such as Torah Scroll or a Sukkah) which meet the requirements of the Jewish laws as described in the Torah.]
Rabbi Shlomo Chein: ok — that is one definition of religious. A more common definition of religious is someone who follows ALL the laws of Judaism which includes wearing a Kipah [Also known as a Yarmulka. It’s also sometimes, spelled as any of the following variations: “Kippah” or “Kipa”, “Kippa”. Its plural is: “Kippot”. It refers to a Head-covering worn by Jewish Males. It serves as a constant reminder of existence of a Higher Being (meaning: G-d). It is a symbol of humility and submission to the Divine (G-d).] But hey, if you are not ready to wear a kipah, don’t let that stop you from eating kosher or keeping Shabbat
not sure: what i want to know is if its as important as the other laws?
not sure: when it comes to laws instituted by the rabbis, are they as important as laws from torah?
Rabbi Shlomo Chein: For most practical purposes a law from the Rabbis needs to be adhered to like a law from the Torah. After all it is the Torah that says follow the laws of the Rabbis. In certain cases a rabbinic law can be more lenient.
not sure: in the case of a Yarmulka?
not sure: i wear a Yarmulka, but at work and if I’m in a club, i would take it off
Rabbi Shlomo Chein: the question is, if you really love G-d, why would take off the Yarmulka in certain places
not sure: so as not to have people look at Jews in a bad way
not sure: for example, if I’m at a club its not appropriate
not sure: and at work i don’t want to stand out, i don’t want to be judged just from wearing a Yarmulka
Rabbi Shlomo Chein: if you are in a club its not appropriate?
not sure: not really, so thats why i would take off my kipah
Rabbi Shlomo Chein: are you saying that it is not appropriate for you to be there
not sure: it is not, however i enjoy it and would like to go, so I take of my kipah so pl don’t know I’m Jewish
not sure: therefore its no longer not appropriate to be there
Rabbi Shlomo Chein: aha — so in G-d’s eyes it is not appropriate. So you will put G-d (the kipah which reminds you and others that G-d does not want you there) in your pocket, and at the same time you will tell me you don’t need the kipah because you love him without it?
not sure: wow, i never thought of it like that
not sure: its needed so as not to be in that situation where u would take it off
Rabbi Shlomo Chein: bingo!
not sure: 🙂
not sure: thank you
not sure: you really brought some clarity to me
not sure: thank you for your time
not sure: have a wonderful day!
Rabbi Shlomo Chein: my pleasure – and keep doing the right think, you bring clarity to the world
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
By the way, You, too, can help hasten the coming of Moshiach, by doing ONE more Mitzvah. ***
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***
A Kipah (AKA: Yarmalkah)!!!
BS”D
A Kipah (AKA: A Yarmalka)!!!
***
On a Northwest Airlines flight from Atlanta , GA , a well attired middle-aged woman found herself sitting next to a man wearing a kippa (“yarmulke” in Yiddish which is short from “Yare Malka which that means: “Awe for the King” – The G-d A-l-mighty who is The King of the World”).
She called the attendant over to complain about her seating.
“What seems to be the problem, Madame?” asked the attendant.
“You’ve sat me next to a Jew!! I can’t possibly sit next to this strange man. Please find me another seat!”
“Madame, I will see what I can do to accommodate,” the attendant replied, “but the flight is virtually FULL today and I don’t know IF there is another seat available.”
The woman shoots a snooty look at the snubbed Jewish man beside her (not to mention the surrounding passengers).
A few minutes later, the attendant returned and said: “Madame, the economy and club sections are FULL, HOWEVER, we do have 1 seat in First Class.”
Before the lady had a chance to respond, the attendant continued: “It is only on exceptions that we make this kind of upgrade, and I had to ask permission from the captain. But, given the circumstances, the captain felt that no-one should be FORCED to sit next to an UN-PLEASANT person…”
The flight attendant turned to the Jewish man sitting next to her, and said:
“So if you’d like to get your things, SIR, I have a comfortable seat for you in First Class…”
At this point, the surrounding passengers stood up and gave a standing ovation while the Jewish man walked up to the front of the plane.
The lady then, said indignantly: “The Captain MUST have made a mistake!!!”
To which the attendant replied: “No Ma’am! ‘Captain Cohen‘, NEVER makes a MISTAKE!”
PS:
Also, please feel FREE to read our explanations on Yarmalka / Kipa which is as follows:
https://fyisavesu.wordpress.com/2009/10/16/meaning-reasoning-behind-yarmulka-aka-kipah/
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
By the way, You, too, can help hasten the coming of Moshiach, by doing ONE more Mitzvah. ***
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Tonight is the 3rd Night of Channukah
BS”D
Tonight, 26th of Kislev (this year on December 23rd, 2008) is the 3rd NIGHT of Channukah
For the 3rd Night, we put 3 Candles from Right to Left, PLUS 1 for the Shamash in the MIDDLE and ABOVE all the rest to set it apart!!!
We light the Shamash first and we say the Blessings and then,
to Usher in the NEW light, we light the one from the left, first and then, the other one…
So, we Place them from Right to Left and we light them from Left to Right!!!
How To Light the Menorah
Brought to you by:
A few things to remember:
Light up when?
Right after night-fall, once it’s dark outside (aside for Friday afternoon, when the candles are lit shortly before sunset).
Light up what?
The Menorah or holder used for lighting the lights should be attractive and clean. All 8 Chanukah lights need to be lined up on the same level, BUT the Shamash candle must be separate!
The preferred way to fulfill the mitzvah of lighting the Channukah Menorah is to use pure olive oil and wicks of cotton, just like the Menorah in the Holy Temple.
Nevertheless, other types of oils, wicks and candles may be used, as long as they give a steady light!
Light up how?
We place candles in the Menorah from right to left, but we light the candles from left to right.
On the first night we light one candle on the right side.
On the second night we light the new, candle first, starting from the left and moving to the right.
We continue this way every night of Chanukah, adding a candle each night.
Follow the Leader!
The Chanukah candles can NOT be used to light each other, which is why we use the Shamash Candle to light the Menorah.
The Shamash is NOT one of the 8 Chanukah candles, so we set it in a place above the rest (Or in the Middle and above the rest). The Shamash can be made out of sweet-smelling beeswax.
The lights of the Chanukah candles are special – only for looking at, NOT for using. It is good for the eyes – and the soul!
Light up for how-long?
The Channukah candles are supposed to burn for at least a half hour.
On Friday-night, though, we have to light them before it gets dark and Shabbat comes in.
We generally use more oil, or bigger candles on Friday, so that the candles will stay burning, well into Shabbat!
Step 1: Insert the candles starting from the RIGHT to left. On the first night, the RIGHT-most candle is lit.
On the second, the two candles are set from RIGHT to left and the one that is the new one (like the 2nd night, the 1st from left is lit first) on the right are lit, etc.
Step 2: Light the Shamash (Servant Candle).
Step 3: Recite the Blessings (See Below).
Step 4: Using the Shamash, in the middle, Light the candles starting on the Left
(lighting tonight’s “new” candle first).
*** So, remember: To Set from RIGHT to left. BUT,
to Light tonight’s “new” candle first ***
Blessings for lighting the Menorah
On Every Night, Recite BOTH of the following Blessings:
Transliteration:
1. Ba-ruch A-tah Ado-nai E-lo-hei-nu Me-lech ha-olam a-sher ki-de-sha-nu be-mitz-vo-tav ve-tzi-va-nu le-had-lik ner Cha-nu-kah.
2. Ba-ruch A-tah Ado-nai E-lo-hei-nu Me-lech Ha-olam she-a-sa ni-sim la-avo-tei-nu ba-ya-mim ha-heim bi-zman ha-zeh.
Translation:
1. Blessed are You, L-o-rd our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the Chanukah light.
2. Blessed are You, L-o-rd our G-d, King of the universe, who performed miracles for our forefathers in those days, at this time.
On the first night Add
(OR IF it is the 1st Night that you are lighting for this year):
3. Ba-ruch A-tah Ado-nai E-lo-hei-nu Me-lech Ha-olam she-hechi-ya-nu ve-ki-yi-ma-nu ve-higi-a-nu liz-man ha-zeh.
Translation:
3. Blessed are You, L-o-rd our G-d, King of the universe, who has granted us life, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this occasion.
Another more important thing to remember:
Your participation in a Public Menorah-Lighting and/or Celebration does NOT fulfill your obligation of performance of the Mitzvah of Lighting your Menorah in your home
That means:
If you went to someone’s home
OR
went to a Public Menorah Lighting
OR
If you went to a party where they lit the Menorah,
you STILL NEED to:
Go HOME and Light your own Menorah in your own home!!!
Plus:
Ladies who have NO Husband or Son in their home,
Still:
NEED to light their Menorah by themselves
Happy Chanukah!
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
By the way, You, too, can help hasten the coming of Moshiach, by doing ONE more Mitzvah. ***
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Happy Channukah – How To light the Menorah for 2nd Night of Channukah
BS”D
Tonight, 25th of Kislev (this year on December 22, 2008) is the 2nd NIGHT of Channukah
For the 2nd Night, we put 2 Candles from Right to Left, PLUS 1 for the Shamash
We light the Shamash first and then,
to Usher in the NEW light, we light the one from the left, first and then, the other one…
So, we Place them from Right to Left and we light them from Left to Right!!!
Happy Chanukah!
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** ***
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
By the way, You, too, can help hasten the coming of Moshiach, by doing ONE more Mitzvah. ***
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )
Update 6… We are saddened to report!!!
BS”D
With GREAT heartache and sadness, we have been informed through many NEWS agencies that as for now, it SEEMS like the Shluchim of the Rebbe, Rabbi Gavriel and Rivka Holtzberg (the emessaries of the Lubavitcher Rebbe to Mumbai in India), have been murdered by the vicious murderers.
Boruch Dayan Hoemes!!!
May G-d, A-l-mighty, avenge the bloods of those holy individuals!!!
According to CrownHeights.INFO, the NEWS piece is as follows:
“Boruch Dayan Hoemes – Shluchim Rabbi Gavriel and Rivka Holtzberg OBM
Rabbi Gavriel and Rivka Holtzberg, the beloved directors of Chabad-Lubavitch of Mumbai, were killed during one of the worst terrorist attacks to strike India in recent memory.
Jewish communities around the world reacted with shock to the loss of the couple, who were killed Thursday at their Chabad House during an apparent standoff between Indian military forces and terrorists.
Their toddler son, Moshe, managed to escape with his nanny some hours before Indian commandos stormed their building, known as the Nariman House, in the popular touristy neighborhood of Colaba. The Associated Press reported that the boy was unharmed, but was wearing blood-soaked pants.
Levaya information will be posted as soon as it becomes available.
Boruch Dayan Hoemes”.
Baruch Dayan Emet. Hashem Yekon Damom.
For extended coverage and pictures of son the Shliach and Chabad House in Mumbai, and other pictures, please go to: CrownHeights.INFO
While we wish it wasn’t true, at times like this, it is too difficult to convey emotions in words!!!
While we are saddened by the tragedy of these brutal murderers, we MUST stand strong and say:
“Hashem! Ad-Mosai??? We WANT Moshiach, NOW!!!”
It is a Miracle and by Divine Providence that their baby son who has NOT even become 3 was saved by the maid and the cook as they slipped-out of the building!!!
There have been some more names that we found, among the countless, other precious Jewish souls whose whereabouts are still unknown…
We ask that you continue your efforts of prayers for them and we ask you that you would Please say Tehillim (Psalm) Chapter 20 for (the English translation is on the bottom):
· Rabbi Teitelbaum (Aryeh Leibish ben Elta Nechama Maltshi)
· Rabbi Chroman (Bentzion ben Elka)
- Moshe Tzvi Ben Rivkah (the Shluchim’s young son)
We still urge, EVRYONE to say Tehillim for the rest of the Jewish people finding themselves in the area which G-d forbid, may still, Rachamana Litzlan be in the harm’s way:
Therefore, we are, again, posting the Tehillim as follows:
The English translated text is as follows (We thank Chabad.org for this text):
1. For the conductor, a song of David.
2. May the L-o-rd answer you on a day of distress; may the name of the G-o-d of Jacob fortify you.
3. May He send your aid from His sanctuary, and may He support you from Zion.
4. May He remember all your meal offerings and may He accept your fat burnt offerings forever.
5. May He give you as your heart [desires], and may He fulfill all your counsel.
6. Let us sing praises for your salvation, and let us assemble in the name of our G-o-d; may the L-o-rd fulfill all your requests.
7. Now I know that the L-o-rd saved His anointed; He answered him from His holy heavens; with the mighty acts of salvation from His right hand.
8. These trust in chariots and these in horses, but we-we mention the name of the L-o-rd our G-o-d.
9. They kneel and fall, but we rise and gain strength.
10. O L-o-rd, save [us]; may the King answer us on the day we call.
We have found the following NEWS release which includes a short Obituary about the Shluchim to Mumbai, (A”H) on Chabad.org which we are sharing with you:
“As the day wore on Friday in Mumbai, with no resolution at hand to what is now called by local news outlets as India’s worst terrorist attack in history, people worldwide anxiously awaited word on the fate of Rabbi Gavriel and Rivka Holtzberg and others held hostage in their Chabad-Lubavitch center. Prayers continued around the clock, and a fund was established to help relief efforts in Mumbai at www.ChabadIndia.org.
Concurring reports indicated that at least one American rabbi and one Israeli rabbi, both kosher supervisors who had traveled to Mumbai on business, were in the Chabad House when suspected Islamic terrorists took the building by force Wednesday night local time. Other reports from news organizations and field personnel say that as many as 10 people could be in the Chabad House, not including anywhere from two to five gunmen.
The Holtzbergs arrived in Mumbai in 2003 to serve the small local Jewish community, visiting businesspeople and the throngs of tourists, many of them Israeli, who annually travel to the seaside city.
Gavriel Holtzberg, 29, was born in Israel and moved to the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn, N.Y., with his parents when he was nine. A prodigious student, Holtzberg was a two-time champion in a competition of memorizing the Mishnah, a compendium of rabbinical enactments redacted in the second century C.E.
He studied at yeshivas in New York and Argentina, and as a rabbinical student served communities in Thailand and China under the Summer Rabbinical Visitation Program run by Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch, the educational arm of Chabad-Lubavitch.
His 28-year-old wife, born Rivkah Rosenberg, is a native of Afula, Israel. Chayki Rosenberg described her sister as dedicated to helping Jews.
She “gives lots of classes for women at the Chabad House,” Rosenberg told The Jerusalem Post.
Friends described her as always having a positive outlook and a kind word for everyone.
Two years ago, the Holtzbergs raised funds to purchase the current location of the Chabad House, a five-story building in Mumbai’s Colaba market area known as Narimon House. They operate a synagogue, teach Torah classes, provide drug rehabilitation services, and host scores of people for weekly Shabbat meals. A trained ritual circumciser and slaughterer, the rabbi also conducts weddings for local Jewish couples.
The last word heard from the couple came in the form of a phone call the rabbi placed to the Israeli Consulate shortly after the beginning of the attacks. The line went dead in the middle of the conversation. Based on the accounts attributed to the nanny who escaped to safety with the Holtzbergs’ toddler son Moshe, the couple and at least two others were believed to be unconscious.
Shots Fired at Chabad House
Beginning in the early morning Friday, Indian commandos began a full-fledged assault on the Chabad House, with troops airlifted in by helicopter while snipers trained their sites through windows from locations surrounding the building. Footage broadcast by IBN, CNN’s affiliate network in India, showed a person waving what appeared to be a Jewish prayer shawl from a mid-floor window after the military assault began.
As of 3:30 p.m. local time, the military was reported to be in control of the upper two floors of the building and working their way downward. Numerous shots and apparent grenade explosions rang out throughout the day.
News reports placed the death toll in the crisis at more than 125, with more than 327 people injured. The attacks began when suspected Islamic terrorists came ashore near the Gateway to India monument carrying plastic explosives, grenades and machine guns and quickly fanned out to a restaurant, the Chabad House, several luxury hotels, a hospital and two train stations.
On Friday morning, the Associated Press reported that Lt. Gen. N. Thamburaj held a press conference about security operations aimed at retaking the hotels and the Chabad House.
“It’s just a matter of a few hours that we’ll be able to wrap up things,” said the general.
To contribute to the Jewish community relief fund, click here.”
According to CNN, and CNN-IBN, the following phone numbers have been released for more information:
International hot lines
India: Mumbai: JJ Hospital, 91 22 2373-5555; Mumbai: St. George Hospital, 91 98 6905-0622; Mumbai: Police control room, 91 22 2262-5020, 91 22 2262-1855; New Delhi: Indian External Affairs Ministry: +91-11-23015300
Australia: Department of Foreign Affairs offers these numbers: In Australia: 1-800-002 214. Australians overseas, call 61 2 6261-3305.
UK: The British Ministry of Foreign Affairs is directing concerned UK nationals to call 44 (0)20 7008-0000
U.S.: The State Department has established a Consular Call Center: The number is 888-407-4747.
Canada:
For Canadians in India call 1-800-387-3124. In Canada call 613-996-8885.”
Mumbai’s Chabad House, situated near the sites of destruction, is a popular stop for Israeli tourists. The Holtzbergs offer a host of programs, including providing kosher food, to locals and visitors alike.
Te following is brought to you, thank to
We hope and pray that we will hear good news very soon.
May Hashem answer our prayers and I will share good news when I have it.
————————————————————————
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
By the way, You, too, can help hasten the coming of Moshiach, by doing ONE more Mitzvah.
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )
Update-2… for Please Say Tehillim
BS”D
We seem to have some NEWS, at this time!!!
THOUGH, it has NOT been confirmed, YET!!!
According to CrownHeights.INFO (http://www.CrownHeights.INFO):
(which claims that the Shliach’s family is Baruch-Hashem, SAFE!!!)
MUMBAI, India [CHI] — The Shliach’s son, Moshe, is now safe in a local hospital and is in good condition. Moshe was taken out of the Chabad House by a maid together with the Chabad House cook, according to a reliable source on the ground. The whereabouts of the parents are still unknown.
We still urge, EVRYONE to say Tehillim for the rest of the Jewish people finding themselves in the area which G-d forbid, may still, Rachamana Litzlan, be in the harm’s way:
Therefore, we are, again, posting the Tehillim as follows:
The English translated text is as follows (We thank Chabad.org for this text):
1. For the conductor, a song of David.
2. May the Lord answer you on a day of distress; may the name of the G-o-d of Jacob fortify you.
3. May He send your aid from His sanctuary, and may He support you from Zion.
4. May He remember all your meal offerings and may He accept your fat burnt offerings forever.
5. May He give you as your heart [desires], and may He fulfill all your counsel.
6. Let us sing praises for your salvation, and let us assemble in the name of our G-o-d; may the L-o-rd fulfill all your requests.
7. Now I know that the L-o-rd saved His anointed; He answered him from His holy heavens; with the mighty acts of salvation from His right hand.
8. These trust in chariots and these in horses, but we-we mention the name of the L-o-rd our G-o-d.
9. They kneel and fall, but we rise and gain strength.
10. O L-o-rd, save [us]; may the King answer us on the day we call.
Earlier NEWS had said:
MUMBAI, India [INN] — Muslim terrorists in Mumbai reportedly have abducted Chabad Rabbi Gabriel, his wife Rivka and their two small children. Indian television reported that six Israelis are being held hostage.
The Foreign Ministry has not confirmed the report, and its last official statement was that no contact has been made with them. It added that 20 Israelis are missing since the terrorist attack Wednesday night.
Indian media reported that a couple and their teenage son, none of them Israelis, were killed in the Chabad House, called the Nariman House. One terrorist also was killed. Gunfire occasionally has been heard from the building, which the army has surrounded.
At least 101 people, including five terrorists, have died since the attacks began, and 600 others have been wounded. The terrorists have held more than 250 people as hostages in the Chabad House, a hospital and luxury hotels.
Several other Israelis have maintained telephone contact from their eight floor hotel rooms. The Chabad website reported that “the situation is grim.” Commando forces have arrived by sea and are battling the terrorists in an effort to rescue the hostage victims.
The sophisticated terrorist attacks, the worst ever in Mumbai and India, hit nine locations as Mumbai is involved in elections. The terrorists struck with automatic weapons and grenades.
And furthermore, earlier, according to CrownHeights.INFO, it seemed:
MUMBAI, India [CHI] — Reports coming from India; Police commandoes are trying to retake the Chabad House and have managed to injure or kill one of the terrorist inside. It is unknown if there are hostages or their condition at the Chabad House.
The Shluchim are still missing. Please continue saying Tehillim for Gavriel Noach ben Freida Bluma, his wife Rivka bas Yehudis and their son Moshe Tzvi ben Rivka.
There are many minyonim getting together to say Tehilim at 770 and the Ohel.
————————————————————————
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
By the way, You, too, can help hasten the coming of Moshiach, by doing ONE more Mitzvah.
*** We WANT Moshiach, Now!!! ***
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )
