Elijah

Understanding Shabbat Hagadol
(updated and revised from Tzav 5762-2002)

Our commentators offer a host of reasons to explain why the Sabbath prior to Passover is called by the grand name "Shabbat Hagadol," the Great Sabbath. Whatever the reason for this Sabbath to be given such a distinguished name, it is always a very special Sabbath for the Jewish people.

“Behold, I am Sending You Elijah the Prophet”
(Revised and update from Tzav 5761-2001)

The prophet Malachi predicts that toward the end of days, Elijah will arrive. The prophet’s arrival will spark a momentous movement of return to Judaism. At this fateful hour, parents and children will interact with each other and will be drawn closer to each other through the word of G-d. That time may very well be now!

"‘Pinchas’--What’s in a Name?"

Throughout the Torah, the name of a parasha often reflects many, if not most, of the themes found in that particular weekly Torah portion. The story of Pinchas and his G-dly reward, however, is only a very small portion of this week’s parasha. How then is the name parashat “Pinchas” justified?

"Moses: A Spiritual Father"

In parashat Bamidbar, the Torah announces the progeny of both Aaron and Moses, but actually only names the children of Aaron. From this unusual omission, our rabbis learn a fundamental principle, that one who teaches his friend's child Torah is regarded as if he had fathered the child. Nevertheless, there are many questions to be asked about the way the Torah expresses the relationship between Moses and his nephews and much to be learned from their relationship.

"Justice, Justice Shall You Pursue"

The Torah's ideas of a judicial system and the pursuit of justice have revolutionized jurisprudence throughout the world.

"Understanding Shabbat Hagadol"

Our commentators offer a host of reasons to explain why the Sabbath prior to Passover is called by the grand name "Shabbat Hagadol," the Great Sabbath. Whatever the reason for this Sabbath to be given such a distinguished name, it is always a very special Sabbath for the Jewish people.