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ערב יום הכפורים

מצות אכילה בערב יום הכפורים

כתוב בתורה (ויקרא כג.) "ועניתם את נפשתיכם בתשעה לחודש בערב". כלומר, מליל עשירי בתשרי, חלה החובה להתענות תענית יום הכפורים. והקשו רבותינו (במסכת ברכות דף ח.) על לשון הפסוק "בתשעה לחודש בערב", שלכאורה היה נכון יותר לכתוב "בעשירי לחודש", וממילא נדע שחובה להתענות כבר מליל עשירי בתשרי, שהרי בכל דיני תורתינו, היום הולך אחר הלילה שלפניו, וכגון ביום השבת, שמזמן שקיעת החמה ביום שישי, נכנסת שבת.

ותירצו רבותינו שהטעם שנכתב בפסוק "בתשיעי לחודש בערב", כדי ללמדינו, שכל האוכל ושותה בתשיעי, מעלה עליו הכתוב כאילו התענה תשיעי ועשירי. וראוי למעט במלאכה בערב יום הכפורים, כדי שיוכל להרבות באכילה ושתיה, וכל העושה מלאכה בערב יום הכפורים אינו רואה סימן ברכה לעולם מאותה מלאכה.

וכמה טעמים נאמרו על מצוה זו. הרא"ש כתב, שהטעם שצונו הקדוש ברוך הוא במצוה זו, שבאהבתו אלינו צוונו להתענות ביום הכפורים כדי לכפר על עוונותינו, וציוה עלינו להתחזק באכילה ושתיה קודם יום הכפורים, כדי שנוכל להתענות למחר.

ובספר שבלי הלקט כתב, להיפך, שכאשר אדם אוכל ושותה בערב יום הכפורים, התענית קשה עליו ביותר, ובזה מקיים מצות "ועניתם את נפשתיכם". ובספר שפת אמת כתב טעם נוסף, שכאשר אדם אוכל ושותה, הוא שמח וטוב לב, ומתוך כך יראה לפייס את חבירו בערב יום הכפורים.

וכתב מרן הרב עובדיה יוסף שליט"א, שאף הנשים חייבות במצוה זו להרבות באכילה ושתיה בערב יום הכפורים, ואף על פי שנשים פטורות ממצות עשה שהזמן גרמא, וכאן המצוה היא בקום עשה, לאכול, מכל מקום, מכיון שהרא"ש כתב שטעם המצוה הוא כדי שנתחזק לקראת התענית, והנשים אף הן מחויבות בתענית, אם כן, גם הן שייכות בציווי להתחזק לקראת התענית.

מנהגי ערב יום הכפורים
כתב רבנו יוסף חיים זצ"ל, שחייב כל אדם לבקש מחילה מאביו ואימו בערב יום הכפורים, על כל מה שחטא להם ופגע בכבודם, ומי שאינו עושה כן נקרא חוטא, ומזלזל בכבוד אביו ואימו, שאם בין אדם לחברו חייבו חז"ל לבקש מחילה מחברו, כל שכן מאביו ואמו שכמעט אין אדם ניצול מחטא זה בכל יום. (עד כאן). וכן ראוי לבני זוג שימחלו זה לזו וזו לזה על כל מה שלא נהגו כשורה אחד עם השני במשך כל השנה.

בערב יום הכפורים, נוהגים להתפלל תפלת מנחה, בעוד היום גדול, דהיינו בשעה מוקדמת, ובתפילת העמידה, אומר כל אחד פסוק "יהיו לרצון אמרי פי והגיון לבי לפניך ה’ צורי וגואלי", ואחר כך אומר וידוי ו"על חטא" כפי שנדפס במחזורים. ואז ילך לביתו ויאכל סעודה מפסקת, שהיא הסעודה האחרונה שאוכל לפני תחילת התענית. ויש לפרוש מכל חמשת העינויים, אכילה, שתיה, רחיצה, נעילת נעלי עור, ותשמיש המיטה, מלפני שקיעת החמה. (ומצוה מן התורה להתחיל בכל דיני התענית קודם שקיעת החמה וראוי לנהוג כן לפחות כרבע שעה קודם שקיעת החמה).

מצוה להדליק נרות לכבוד יום הכפורים, וקודם ההדלקה יש לברך "אשר קדשנו במצוותיו וצוונו להדליק נר של יום הכפורים". ואין לאשה לברך עם ההדלקה ברכת שהחיינו, אלא לאחר חליצת נעליים, שרק אז רשאים לברך שהחיינו, משום שבברכת שהחיינו מקבלת עליה קדושת יום הכפורים, ומיד היא חייבת בכל חמשת העינויים.

נוהגים להתעטף בטלית קודם שקיעת החמה (כדי שיוכל לברך עליה), ומתפללים כל תפילות יום הכפורים בטלית, כדי שיתפלל עמו בכוונה.

Erev Yom Kippur

The Mitzvah to Eat on Erev Yom Kippur

The Torah (Vayikra 23) states: “And you shall oppress yourselves on the ninth of the month at night,” meaning that the obligation to fast on Yom Kippur begins from the night of the tenth of Tishrei. Our Sages (Berachot 8a) inquired about the language of the verse, “The ninth of the month at night,” that would it not make more sense to write “the tenth of the month” and we shall understand by default that the obligation to fast begins from the night of the tenth as we find regarding all other laws of the Torah the day begins with the preceding night, as we find by Shabbat which begins from sunset on Friday evening?

Our Sages answered that the reason why the verse states, “The ninth of the month at night,” is in order to teach us that anyone who eats and drinks on the ninth of the month, it is considered as if he has fasted for the ninth and tenth of the month. It is preferable to minimize one’s workload on Erev Yom Kippur in order that one is able to eat and drink copiously. Anyone who performs work on Erev Yom Kippur shall never see any blessing from the money he earns on that day.

There are several reasons given for this Mitzvah. The Rosh writes that the reason Hashem commanded us to perform this Mitzvah is because since Hashem, with all of His love, commanded us to fast on Yom Kippur in order to atone for our sins, He thus commanded us to strengthen ourselves by eating and drinking before Yom Kippur so that we may fast the next day. The Shiboleh Ha’Leket writes that, on the contrary, when one eats and drinks on Erev Yom Kippur, the fast the next day is harder for him and in this way one fulfills the verse, “You shall oppress yourselves.” The Sefat Emet writes an additional reason, that when one eats and drinks, this gladdens him and as a result he will come to appease his friend on Erev Yom Kippur.

Maran Harav Ovadia Yosef Shlit”a writes that women are also obligated in this Mitzvah to eat and drink plentifully on Erev Yom Kippur. Although women are exempt from performing positive Mitzvot which are time-bound and in our situation the Mitzvah is to actively go and eat, nevertheless, since the Rosh writes that the reason for this Mitzvah is in order to give us strength for the upcoming fast and women are also obligated to fast, they are also subsequently obligated to strengthen themselves in preparation for the fast.

Some Customs Pertaining to Erev Yom Kippur
The great Rabbeinu Yosef Haim zt”l writes that one is obligated to ask for his parents’ forgiveness on Erev Yom Kippur for all of the sins he has committed against them and all of the ways he has insulted their honor. One who does not do so is considered a sinner and treats the respect of his father and mother lightly, for if our Sages required one to ask one’s friends and fellows for forgiveness, certainly one ask for his parents’ forgiveness, for it is almost impossible not to transgress this prohibition daily. It is likewise worthy for spouses to forgive one another for all of the inappropriate behavior and angst that they caused each other throughout the year.

It is customary to pray Mincha at an early hour on Erev Yom Kippur. In the Amidah prayer, after reciting the verse, “Yihyu Leratzon Imrei Fi Vehegyon Libi Lefanecha, Hashem Tzuri Vego’ali,” one recites Viduy (the confessional prayer) and “Al Chet” as is printed in Yom Kippur Machzorim. Then, one should proceed home and eat his last meal before the onset of the fast. One should begin to abstain from the five prohibitions that apply on Yom Kippur (i.e. eating and drinking, washing, rubbing one’s self with oils or lotions, wearing leather shoes, and marital relations) before sunset. (It is a Torah commandment to begin abstaining from all the Yom Kippur-related prohibitions before sunset; it is preferable to do so at least fifteen minutes before sunset.)

It is a Mitzvah to light candles in honor of Yom Kippur. Before lighting, one should recite the blessing of, “Baruch Ata Hashem Elokeinu Melech Ha’Olam Asher Kideshanu Bemitzvotav Vetzivanu Le’Hadlik Ner Shel Yom HaKippurim.” A woman should not recite the Shehecheyanu blessing along with the blessing on the candles until she has removed her leather shoes; only after doing so can one recite this blessing, for by reciting this blessing, she accepts upon herself the sanctity of Yom Kippur and becomes obligated to abstain from the five prohibitions immediately.

It is customary to wrap one’s self in his Tallit before sunset (so that one will be able to recite the blessing); all of the Yom Kippur prayers are recited while wearing a Tallit so that one can pray with concentration while it is on him.

“Kaparot” is customarily performed during these days (i.e. the Ten Days of Repentance). Some fulfill this custom using chickens while others use money, as we have discussed in the Halacha regarding the Custom of Kaparot.

מנהג הכפרות

שאלה
: האם יש לקיים את מנהג הכפרות בתרנגולים דוקא, או שטוב יותר לקיימו על ידי מעות בלבד?

תשובה
: נהגו בכל תפוצות ישראל לעשות כפרות בערב יום הכפורים, לשחוט תרנגולים לכל בני הבית, ונוהגים ליקח תרנגול זכר לכל אחד מבני הבית הזכרים, ותרנגולת נקבה לכל אחת מבנות הבית הנקבות. ובעת שמסובב התרנגול סביב לראש המתכפר, אומר, זה חליפתך זה תמורתך זה כפרתך, וכפי שנדפס במחזורים, וכשמסובב סביב עצמו יאמר, זה חליפתי וכו’. ומנהג זה נהגו לעשותו בעשרת ימי תשובה, כלומר, בימים אלה, אחר יום ראש השנה לפני יום הכפורים.

אלא שהרשב"א בתשובה (סימן שצה) כתב, מנהג הכפרות שעושים בערבי יום כפור, מצאתיו מנהג פשוט בעירנו, עם עוד דברים שנראו בעיני שהם כדרכי האמורי, (דהיינו מנהג גויים), והרחקתי מנהג זה הרבה, וצותי לבטלו, ואף ששמעתי שדבר זה נשאל לרב האי גאון, ואמר שכן נהגו, עם כל זה מנעתי המנהג. עד כאן. גם מרן השלחן ערוך כתב שיש למנוע מנהג זה, וכשיטת הרשב"א. וכן פסק גם בספר פרי חדש ועוד.

ומכל מקום מרן הרב עובדיה יוסף שליט"א כתב, שמכיון שכבר פשט מנהג זה, הן אצל עדות האשכנזים והן אצל עדות הספרדים, ומכיון שכך גם דעת הגאונים לקיים מנהג זה, וכן כתבו לקיים המנהג עוד רבים מגדולי הפוסקים, לכן הנח להם לישראל במנהגם. ובפרט שנוהגים ליתן הכפרות או דמיהן (דהיינו כסף כנגד מחיר עוף אחד לכל אדם), לעניים, ובזה יש מקום לומר שגם הרשב"א מודה להתיר, כיון שיש טעם בדבר על על פי פשוטן של דברים.

אולם כל זה מצד החשש שדומה הדבר לדרכי האמורי, שמצד זה יש להקל בדבר ולהעמיד את המנהג על מקומו. אך יש לעורר על ענין אחר, והוא, שבמקומות רבים נעשה מנהג הכפרות בצורה המונית, והשוחטים עומדים במשך שעות מרובות לשחוט, וידיהם עייפות, ופעמים רבות אינם שוחטים כדין. וכבר לפני למעלה מששים שנה היה מרן הרב שליט"א מעורר על הדבר, ואומר שמרן השלחן ערוך אמר שהוא מנהג האמורי, ובאמת שהוא מנהג החתי והאמורי, כי הרבה חטאין נגרמים בעבורו. ולכן יש להזהר מאד ,שתעשה שחיטת העוף כדת וכדין, על ידי שוחט מומחה וירא אלוקים. ומכל מקום ניתן גם לקיים מנהג הכפרות במעות שיסובב סביב ראש המתכפר ויאמר, זו חליפתך וכו’, אלו המעות ילכו לצדקה ותכנס אתה לחיים טובים ולשלום, וכן היה נוהג במשך שנים מרן הרב שליט"א.

אלא שיש להוסיף בזה, כי רבותינו המקובלים הרבו בשבח מנהג הכפרות שנוהגים לעשותו בתרנגולים דוקא, כי יש בכך כפרה לנפש האדם הנקרא "גבר", כשם שהתרנגול נקרא "גבר", וגם רבינו קדוש ה’ האר"י ז"ל כתב בשבח המנהג על ידי תרנגולים דוקא, ועל כן יש ענין גדול לנהוג במנהג הכפרות דוקא על ידי תרנגולים. וגם מרן רבינו הגדול שליט"א, אף שכאמור במשך שנים היה נוהג לקיים את מנהג הכפרות במעות בלבד, מכל מקום בשנים האחרונות שינה ממנהגו בזה, וחזר לקיים את מנהג הכפרות בתרנגולים, וכן הורה לקרוביו, שנכון יותר לקיים את מנהג הכפרות בתרנגולים. ועל כן, מי שיש בידו לקיים את המנהג בתרנגולים, שאחר כך יועברו הם או דמיהן לעניים, רצוי מאד שיעשה כן לתועלת נפשו.

ואין צורך להזכיר את גודל איסור צער בעלי חיים, כמו שיש אומרים בגמרא (בבא מציעא לב., ועי’ שבת קנד. ובש"ע חו"מ סימן ערב) "צער בעלי חיים דאוריתא", שיש בזה איסור חמור מאד שמביא גם קטרוג גדול על האדם, ולכן יש להזהר מאד לנהוג כדת בעופות המובאים לקיום מנהג הכפרות, שלא יבאו לידי מיתה או צער בחינם. ולכן יש לקיים מנהג זה רק במקום בו הוא מקויים תחת השגחה כראוי, שתהיה גם השחיטה כדת, ושלא יעשו על תרנגול אחד כפרות כמה פעמים כדרך הרמאים. ואם אין אפשרות לקיים את המנהג בצורה נכונה, אין ספק שעדיף יותר לקיימו על ידי מעות בלבד ולא על ידי תרנגולים. וה’ הטוב יכפר, ואחד המרבה ואחר הממעיט ובלבד שיכוין את לבו לאביו שבשמים

The Custom of Kaparot

Question: Should one fulfill the custom of Kaparot specifically using chickens or should one merely use money?

Answer: It is customary among all Jewish communities to perform Kaparot on Erev Yom Kippur by slaughtering chickens for every member of one’s household. It is customary to use a rooster (male chicken) for every male member of one’s household and a hen (female chicken) for every female member of one’s household. While circling the chicken around the head of the one being atoned for, one recites: "This is your substitute, replacement, atonement etc." as is printed in the Machzorim. When circling one’s own head with a chicken, one should recite: "This is my substitute etc." It is customary to do this during the Ten Days of Repentance, i.e. during this period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

Nevertheless, the Rashba writes in one of his responses (Chapter 395): "Regarding the Kaparot custom which is performed on Erev Yom Kippur, I have found this to be the widespread custom in our city along with other things which seem to me are pagan customs; I have distanced this custom very much and I have ordered that it be nullified. Although I have heard that Rav Hai Gaon was asked about this [custom] and he replied that this was indeed the custom, I have nevertheless discontinued its practice." Similarly, Maran HaShulchan Aruch writes that this custom should be discontinued as per the Rashba’s opinion. The Peri Chadash and other Poskim rule likewise.

Nevertheless, Maran Harav Ovadia Yosef Shlit"a writes that since this has become the prevalent custom among Ashkenazi as well as Sephardic communities in addition to the fact that the Geonim and many other great Poskim uphold this custom, they may thus continue with their custom. This is especially true when the Kaparot or their value (meaning the monetary value of one chicken per person) are being donated to the needy, for in this case it would seem that even the Rashba would agree that it is permissible since there is an understandable reason for doing so according to the simple meaning of this matter.

All this only applies to the fact that this custom resembles pagan rituals, in which case we say that one may be lenient and keep this custom in place. However, we must raise another issue, regarding the fact that in many places, Kaparot are performed as a large-scale operation and when the slaughterers stand for hours on end slaughtering, their hands may become weak and the slaughtering may not necessarily be performed as prescribed by Halacha. Maran Harav Shlit"a would raise this issue close to sixty years ago and would say that according to Maran HaShulchan Aruch, this is a pagan ritual, and when done in this way, it most certainly is, as many evils result from this. Thus, one should take care that the slaughtering of the chickens should be done according to Halacha by an expert and G-d-fearing slaughterer. Nevertheless, one may fulfill the custom of Kaparot by circling money around the head of the one being atoned for and reciting, "This [money] is your substitute etc. this money shall be given to charity and you shall be bestowed with a good life and peace." This was indeed the custom of Maran Harav Shlit"a for many years.

Nevertheless, we must add that the Mekubalim speak very highly about performing Kaparot specifically with chickens, for this provides an atonement for a person is called "man," just as a rooster is called "man." Similarly, the saintly Ariz"l speaks very highly about performing Kaparot specifically using chickens as well. It is this truly important to perform Kaparot specifically using chickens. Although, as we have said earlier, Maran Harav Shlit"a had used money to perform Kaparot for several years, he has nevertheless changed his custom and once again began performing Kaparot specifically with chickens. He has also ruled this way for his relatives that it is indeed preferable to perform the Kaparot custom using chickens. Therefore, one who has the ability to perform Kaparot using chickens and then have their monetary value donated to charity should indeed do so for the benefit of his soul.

We need not mention the great sin of causing pain to animals, as some are of the opinion in the Gemara (Baba Metzia 32a, Shabbat 154a, and see Shulchan Aruch Choshen Mishpat Chapter 272) that "causing pain to animals is a Torah prohibition." This is a severe sin which also causes one to bring Heavenly prosecution upon himself. Thus, one must be extremely careful to treat the chickens properly so that no unnecessary pain or death befalls them. Thus, one should only perform the custom in this way when it takes place under proper supervision so that the ritual slaughter is also performed in accordance with Halacha and that the same chicken is not used for several people like some swindlers do. If it is not possible to perform this custom in a correct fashion, there is no doubt that one should use money instead of chickens. May our benevolent Hashem forgive us; whether one does a little bit more or a little bit less, it is the same, as long as one does it for the sake of Heaven

—
Shabbat Shalom

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so that we can take account of what we have.

Therefore, if you have borrowed a book or Sefer

from the Bet Hakeneset please return it asap

Thank you for your cooperation

If you would like to borrow a book

please contact

Meir Cohen or David Menashe

***

Elul 5777

September 2017

Ladies’ Seating Plan for the Yamim Noraim

High Holy Days

Dear Ladies,

We hope this letter finds you well and in good health.

As we know tefila, prayer, is our strongest tool in connecting directly to Hashem and especially during the upcoming awe-inspiring days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, now only a few days away. It is vitally important that we use our tefilot to ask Hashem to inscribe each and every one of us in the Book of Life and that all may merit a year of health and happiness.

The Shulhan Aruch expresses the importance of makom kabua, makon kodesh – that a person’s regular and fixed place where he or she prays has a direct relationship to the power of the tefila, to the extent that the place a person prays is called kodesh – holy.

Therefore, in order to avoid disappointment on such special days we are willing to reserve a seat for lady members of our community.

We will attempt, to the best of our ability, to allocate the seats according to where the ladies sit throughout the year, but we cannot guarantee how the seats will be allocated. We will also consider accommodating places for unmarried girls over Bat Mitzva to sit next to or close to their mothers.

Please tick for which day(s):

1) ONLY Rosh Hashana (2 days) _______

2) ONLY Yom Kippur _______

3) BOTH (Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur) _______

Please let us know below who the seat is for:

1) Name _______________________________

2) Name _______________________________

3) Name _______________________________

DEADLINE: THURSDAY 14 SEPTEMBER

Please note, we will gladly reserve and allocate you a seat, however, if for example, you are allocated a seat for Yom Kippur but can only come for Ne’ilah please understand that your seat cannot be kept vacant all day, when others could use the seat until you arrive.

Therefore, we endeavour to do the following:

· A clear sign will be posted asking ladies to respect the allocated seating plan by not sitting in someone’s allocated place and to vacate the seat as soon as the lady comes.

· If someone is sitting in your allocated seat when you arrive, you have the right to politely ask that person to move.

· We request that you ask the lady to move in the most polite, discreet and nicest way possible so as not to cause embarrassment, offence or any discomfort whatsoever.

Thanking you in advance.

Tizku leshanim rabot

The Gabbaim

PS – Whilst there is no charge for allocating you a seat, any donations made will be gratefully appreciated.

You can reserve by replying to this email or speak directly to Mrs E Jacobs by the DEADLINE: THURSDAY 14 SEPTEMBER

***

Reminder

There is a big Segula

to pay all your debts

before Rosh Hashana

therefore if you have

pledged a donation to the

Bet Hakeneset

and have not yet paid

here is a kind reminder

Tizke Lemitzvot

Ketiva Vechatima Tova

***

JOINT LEARNING PROJECT

To be completed by 17th Cheshvan [nearly 3 months so plenty of time!!!]

[*not daf]

Contact Rabbi Stamler to reserve your section 07738002480

****

SHABBAT

Shabbat Times

לוח זמני תפלה לקיץתשע"ז

Summer Timetable 5777 – 2017

Mincha 6:00 pm

*****

Children’s Service From 10am Every Shabbat morning

Children’s Tehilim straight after Musaf

****

Anyone wishing to donate a Kiddush Please email Moorlanenews

****

Q & A on Parashat

Nitzavim

1. What is the connection between the verse "atem nitzavim" and the curses in the previous parsha?
   29:12 – The Jewish People asked, "Who can survive such curses?" Moshe responded, "You’ve done a lot to anger Hashem, and yet "atem nitzavim" you’re still standing before Him."
2. Who were the wood-choppers and water-carriers?
   29:10 – Canaanites who joined the Jewish People under false pretenses.
3. Why can Hashem never "swap" the Jewish people for another nation?
   29:12 – Because Hashem swore to their ancestors that He would never do so.
4. One who ignores the Torah’s warnings "adds drunkenness to thirst." What does this mean?
   29:18 – He causes Hashem to reckon his unintentional sins alongside his intentional ones, punishing him for all.
5. What two cities were destroyed along with Sedom and Amorah?
   29:22 – Admah and Tsevoyim.
6. "The hidden things are for Hashem, our G-d, and the revealed things are for us…" What does this mean?
   29:28 – There is collective culpability only for "open" sins, but not for "hidden" ones.
7. According to Rashi, how will the day of the ingathering of the exiles be "great and difficult?"
   30: 3 – It will be as if Hashem needs to take each individual by the hand and lead him out of exile.
8. Where is the Torah not to be found? Where is it to be found?
   30:12-15 – The Torah is not found in heaven nor across the ocean. Rather, it is "very close to you, in your mouth and in your heart."
9. When and where did the Jewish People become culpable for each other’s sins?
   30:28 – When they crossed the Jordan and accepted the oath on Mt. Eval and Mt. Grizim.
10. How do the earth and sky remind us to keep the mitzvot?
    30:19 – The earth and heavenly bodies, although receiving neither reward nor punishment, always obey Hashem’s will. How much more should we, who stand to receive reward or punishment, obey Hashem.

Vayelech

1. Moshe said, "I am 120 years old today. I am no longer able to go out and come in…" How do we know this does not refer to physical inability?
   31:2 – Because verse 34:7 says "His (Moshe’s) eye never dimmed, and his (youthful) moisture never departed."
2. Which of Moshe’s statements to Yehoshua was later contradicted by Hashem’s command?
   31:7 – Moshe told Yehoshua to share his leadership with the Elders. Hashem later commanded Yehoshua to rule alone.
3. Why does the Torah refer to Succot of the eighth year as though it occurred during the shemita year?
   31:10 – Because the laws of the seventh year still apply to the harvest.
4. Why does the Torah command that babies be brought to the Torah reading?
   31:12 – To give reward to those who bring them.
5. What does it mean that Hashem "hides His face?"
   31:17 – He ignores their distress.
6. What function does the song Ha’azinu serve?
   31:21 – It warns what will befall the Jewish People if they abandon Torah.
7. Which verse promises that the Torah will never be totally forgotten?
   31:21 – "For (the Torah) will not be forgotten from the mouth of their offspring."
8. What is the difference of opinion regarding the placing of the Torah scroll which Moshe gave the levi’im?
   31:26 – Whether it was placed outside but adjacent to the Ark, or inside next to the Tablets.
9. On the day of Moshe’s death, why didn’t Moshe gather the people by blowing trumpets as he normally would have?
   31:28 – Blowing the trumpets expressed Moshe’s dominion, and "there is no dominion on the day of death." (Kohelet 8)
10. Moshe said, "For I know that after my death you will act corruptly," but, in fact, this didn’t occur until after Yehoshua’s death. What does this teach us?
    31:29 – That a person’s student is as dear to him as himself As long as Yehoshua was alive, it was as though Moshe himself

****

Halachot from Maran Rabbi Ovadia Yosef Ztz’l

"אשרי העם יודעי תרועה"

מובא במדרש רבה (פר’ אמור פר’ כט אות ד), על הפסוק "אשר העם יודעי תרועה", אמר רבי יאשיה, וכי אין אומות העולם יודעים להריע? כמה קרנות יש להם, כמה חצוצרות יש להם? אלא, "העם יודעי תרועה", אלו ישראל, שהם יודעים ומכירים לרצות את בוראם בתרועה. והוא עומד מכסא דין ויושב על כסא רחמים, ומתמלא ברחמים על עמו ישראל. וזהו שנאמר "אשר העם יודעי תרועה", כלומר, מכירים ויודעים את סגולתה ומעלתה וישובו אל ה’.

וסיפר הגאון רבינו עזרא עטיה זצ"ל, ראש ישיבת פורת יוסף, כי הגאון רבי שלמה לניאדו, בעל שו"ת בית דינו של שלמה, שהיה רבה של חלב, היא ארם צובא, היה נוהג בראש השנה לעבור לפני התיבה כשליח צבור, כי ניחון בקול ערב, נעים זמירות ישראל, וגם היה תוקע בשופר. וכן היה נוהג מידי שנה בשנה. כשהגיע הרב לזקנה ושיבה, הודיע לפרנסי הקהל שבאו לביתו לבקרו בשבת שלפני ראש השנה, שנבצר ממנו השנה להיות שליח צבור ותוקע, מפני מצב בריאותו. נענו הפרנסים ואמרו, אולי יואיל רבינו לומר לבנו הגאון רבי אפרים (בעל שו"ת דגל מחנה אפרים) שהוא יעבור לפני התיבה ויתקע בשופר. כששמע כן בנו רבי אפרים, בא לפני מר אביו ואמר לו, אבא, אני מוכן למלא את מקומך השנה, נענה הגאון לדבריו ובירך אותו בהצלחה. וכן היה.

בראש השנה הלך רבי אפרים לבית הכנסת, ועבר לפני התיבה, וכשעמד לתקוע, נתבלבל קצת בתקיעות ותיכף ומיד תיקן כדת. ובבוא ראשי הקהל אל הרב בעל בית דינו של שלמה, לבקרו לנשק ידיו כנהוג, שאל אותם, איך היו התפילות, השיבו בשבח התפלות הנפלאות שהתפלל רבי אפרים כשליח צבור. ושאל, איך היו התקיעות, ועל זה השיבו בשפה רפה, והרגיש שלא היו תקינות כל כך. תיכף ומיד קרא לרבי אפרים, ושאלו על כך, השיבו רבי אפרים, כי היה קורא "יהי רצון" שלפני התקיעות, ואמר "ושלח מלאכיך הקדושים הממונים על התקיעות", והנה תיכף ראה שבא המלאך הממונה על ידו, ויעף אליו אחד מן השרפים והתייצב לימינו, לזאת היה חרד מפניו ונתבלבל. שחק בעל הבית דינו של שלמה, ואמר לו, הנה אתה הזמנת אותו ותירא מפניו. ועל כגון זה נאמר, אשר העם יודעי תרועה.

אכן לנו הדלים, לפחות נכוין לשוב בתשובה, וכמו שאמרו במדרש תהלים, "תקעו בחודש שופר", חדשו ושפרו מעשיכם על ידי השופר. כי השופר, רומז גם על השופר שבזמן מתן תורה, כמו שכתוב בו "ויהי קול השופר הולך וחזק מאד", ולכן אסור להשיח (לדבר) בשעת תקיעות השופר, כי על אותה שעה כתוב במדרש (פר’ יתרו סוף פר’ כט), שהיה כל העולם שקט, חמור לא נער, סוס לא צנף, צפור לא צפצף, מלאכים לא עפו, שרפים לא אמרו קדוש, וקול השופר נשמע מסוף העולם ועד סופו. ולכן אין להשיח או להשתעל ברצון, וצריך לשבת דומיה בעת התקיעות לקיים מצות עשה לשמוע קול שופר. קחו עמכם דברים ושובו אל ה’, אשרי העם יודעי תרועה ומכירים בה לשוב בתשובה

“Fortunate is the Nation which knows the Shofar Blasts”

The Midrash Rabba (Parashat Emor Chapter 29, Section 4) states regarding the verse, “Fortunate is the nation which knows the Shofar blasts”: “Rabbi Yoshiya said: ‘Do the nations of the world not know how to blow? They have so many horns and so many trumpets! Rather, ‘The nation which knows the Shofar blasts,’ refers to the Jewish nation which knows how to appease their G-d with Shofar blasts. He (Hashem) then arises from the throne of judgment and sits on the throne of mercy and becomes filled with compassion for the Jewish nation.’” This is what is meant by the verse, “Fortunate is the nation which knows the Shofar blasts,” meaning the people who know the auspicious meaning and importance of the Shofar blasts and use them to return to Hashem.

Hagaon Harav Ezra Attiazt”l, late Rosh Yeshiva of Porat Yosef, recounts how Hagaon Harav Shlomo Laniado zt”l, author of the Responsa Bet Dino Shel Shlomo and Chief Rabbi of Aleppo, Syria, would serve as Chazzan on Rosh Hashanah since he was blessed with a pleasant and melodious voice in addition to serving as the Shofar blower. He would customarily do so every year. When the rabbi grew older though, he notified the respected community activists that came to visit his home on the Shabbat preceding Rosh Hashanah that due to the current status of his health, he would be unable to serve as Chazzan and Shofar blower during the coming Rosh Hashanah. The community activists replied by asking if the rabbi would request that his son, Hagaon Harav Efraim (author of Responsa Degel Machaneh Efraim), serve as the Chazzan and Shofar blower instead. When his son, Harav Efraim, heard of this, he came before his father and told him that he agreed to fill his father’s place this year. His father gave him his blessing and so it came to be.

On Rosh Hashanah, Harav Efraim went to the synagogue and served as Chazzan but when he began to blow the Shofar, he erred slightly in the order of blasts, but immediately corrected himself as prescribed by Halacha. Upon arriving at the home of his father, Harav Shlomo, in order to visit him and kiss his hand as was customary, the leaders of the community were asked how the prayer services went to which they replied that the services conducted by Harav Efraim were truly amazing. When asked how the Shofar blowing went, they replied half-heartedly and the rabbi understood that it did not go so well. He immediately summoned his son, Harav Efraim, and inquired about this matter. His son replied, “While reciting the ‘Yehi Ratzon’ text prior to the Shofar blowing, I said, ‘Send [me] your holy angels who are appointed over the Shofar blasts.’ I immediately saw one of the fiery angels fly towards me and stand on my right side! I became frightened and this caused me to become confused.” His father then chuckled and told him, “You invited him and then you were afraid of him?!” About such an incident does the verse state, “Fortunate is the nation which knows the Shofar blasts!”

However, regarding us ordinary people, we should, at the very least, have in mind to repent, as the Midrash Tehillim states regarding the verse, “Blow the Shofar on the [new] month”: “Renew and better your deeds through the Shofar.” The Shofar represents the Shofar that was blown during the giving of the Torah, as the verse states, “And the sound of the Shofar became [progressively] much stronger.” Thus, one may not converse during the blowing of the Shofar, for regarding this time, the Midrash (Parashat Yitro, end of Chapter 29) states, “The entire world was silent; no horses neighed, no donkeys brayed, no birds chirped, no angles flew, no fiery angels recited ‘Kadosh,’ and the sound of the Shofar could be heard from one end of the world to the other.” Therefore, one should not speak or cough willingly; one should sit silently during the Shofar blowing and have in mind to fulfill the positive Torah commandment to hear the sound of the Shofar. Take these words with you and use them to return to Hashem while utilizing the sound of the Shofar for this purpose

תקיעת שופר

מצות עשה מן התורה לשמוע תרועת השופר ביום ראש השנה, שנאמר "יום תרועה יהיה לכם". ואסור לדבר בין התקיעות, וכל שכן בזמן התקיעות עצמם, ונחלקו הפוסקים אם יש לומר וידוי בין התקיעות, (כפי שמודפס בהרבה מחזורים.) או שאסור לומר וידוי בין התקיעות, ודעת מרן הרב עובדיה יוסף שליט"א, שאסור לומר וידוי בין התקיעות, ושאף מי שנהג כן, צריך לבטל מנהגו, שנכנס לחשש ברכה לבטלה, ולספק אם חייב לחזור שוב ולברך על התקיעות, ומכל מקום, אם רוצה להרהר הוידוי בליבו בלבד, רשאי לעשות כן בין התקיעות, אבל בשעת התקיעות עצמם ידום ויקשיב היטב לקול השופר.

נשים פטורות ממצות שופר, שהרי היא מצות עשה שהזמן גרמא, וכל מצוות עשה שהזמן גרמן נשים פטורות, כמו שביארנו בכמה הזדמנויות. ומכל מקום נהגו הנשים להחמיר על עצמן ולבוא לבית הכנסת לשמוע תקיעת שופר, ואשה שלא היה באפשרותה לבוא לבית הכנסת, יכולה לשמוע תקיעת שופר בבית, (או בבית הכנסת בשעות הצהריים כפי שמקובל בכמה מקומות). ואין לברך על תקיעת שופר כשתוקע עבור נשים, משום שנשים אינם מברכות על מצות עשה שהזמן גרמא. ויש נשים מעדות אשכנז שנוהגות לברך לעצמן על תקיעת שופר, ויש להן על מה שיסמוכו. ומכל מקום אין לתוקע עצמו לברך עבור נשים גם למנהג זה.

כל היום כשר למצות שופר, מהנץ החמה ועד לשקיעתה, ולכן הבא לתקוע לנשים, רשאי לתקוע כל היום כולו עד שקיעת החמה.

כלל גדול בידינו, כי מצות צריכות כוונה, וכפי שביארנו בהלכה מיוחדת. ועל כן, השומע קול שופר בראש השנה, צריך שישים לבו, לכוין שבשמיעת קול השופר הוא מקיים את מצות השופר

Blowing the Shofar on Rosh Hashanah

It is a positive Torah commandment to hear the Shofar blasts on the day of Rosh Hashanah, as the verse states, “It shall be a day of [Shofar] blasts for you.” One may not speak between the various sets of Shofar blasts and certainly not during the blasts themselves. The Poskim disagree regarding whether or not it is permissible to recite the order of confession (which is printed in most Rosh Hashanah prayer books). Maran Harav Ovadia Yosef Shlit”a rules that one may not recite this confessional between the sets of the Shofar blasts, for this causes one to enter the realm of a blessing in vain and it is doubtful whether or not one must recite the blessing on the Shofar blasts again; even if one has customarily recited this confessional prayer in the past, one must discontinue this custom at once. Nevertheless, if one would like to read this confessional prayer with his eyes only and ponder it in his heart, this is indeed permissible between the sets of blasts; however, during the time the Shofar blasts are actually being sounded, one must sit silently and listen to the Shofar blasts carefully.

Women are exempt from hearing the Shofar blasts since this is positive, time-bound Mitzvah and women are exempt from such Mitzvot as we have discussed on several occasions. Nevertheless, it is customary that women act stringently and come to the synagogue to hear the Shofar blasts. If a woman did not have the opportunity to come to the synagogue may indeed hear the Shofar blasts at home (or later on in the synagogue during the afternoon hours of Rosh Hashanah, as has become the prevalent custom in many synagogues). When one blows the Shofar for women, one may not recite the “Lishmo’a Kol Shofar” blessing since women are exempt from such positive, time-bound Mitzvot. There are some Ashkenazi women who customarily recite the blessing on the Shofar for themselves and they indeed have on whom to rely. Nonetheless, the one blowing the Shofar should not recite a blessing when blowing for women, even according to this view.

The Mitzvah of hearing Shofar blasts may be fulfilled the entire day of Rosh Hashanah, from sunrise until sunset. Therefore, if one would like to blow the Shofar for women, he may do so all day, until sunset.

We have a great rule that “Mitzvot require intention”, as we have discussed in a special Halacha. Thus, before hearing the Shofar blasts on Rosh Hashanah, one must pay attention and have in mind to fulfill the positive Torah commandment of hearing the Shofar blasts when hearing the Shofar

****

During the week

Shiurim in our Bet Hakeneset

***

1 Rosh Hashana Yom Kippur Succot 5778 2017.pdf
2 Winter Timetable 5778 2017-18.pdf

Announcements

Mincha and Arvit next week 6:55 pm

*****

Yamim Noraim

&

Winter 5778 – 2017/18

attached

***

SELICHOT

Sundays 7 am

Weekdays 6 am

ONE WEEK BEFORE

יום הדין

***

Thank you

To Meir Cohen

for all his efforts in tidying up the library

The Library will soon be available for the Kehila

however, we need ALL books returned

so that we can take account of what we have.

Therefore, if you have borrowed a book or Sefer

from the Bet Hakeneset please return it asap

Thank you for your cooperation

If you would like to borrow a book

please contact

Meir Cohen or David Menashe

***

Elul 5777

September 2017

Ladies’ Seating Plan for the Yamim Noraim

High Holy Days

Dear Ladies,

We hope this letter finds you well and in good health.

As we know tefila, prayer, is our strongest tool in connecting directly to Hashem and especially during the upcoming awe-inspiring days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, now only a few days away. It is vitally important that we use our tefilot to ask Hashem to inscribe each and every one of us in the Book of Life and that all may merit a year of health and happiness.

The Shulhan Aruch expresses the importance of makom kabua, makon kodesh – that a person’s regular and fixed place where he or she prays has a direct relationship to the power of the tefila, to the extent that the place a person prays is called kodesh – holy.

Therefore, in order to avoid disappointment on such special days we are willing to reserve a seat for lady members of our community.

We will attempt, to the best of our ability, to allocate the seats according to where the ladies sit throughout the year, but we cannot guarantee how the seats will be allocated. We will also consider accommodating places for unmarried girls over Bat Mitzva to sit next to or close to their mothers.

Please tick for which day(s):

1) ONLY Rosh Hashana (2 days) _______

2) ONLY Yom Kippur _______

3) BOTH (Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur) _______

Please let us know below who the seat is for:

1) Name _______________________________

2) Name _______________________________

3) Name _______________________________

DEADLINE: THURSDAY 14 SEPTEMBER

Please note, we will gladly reserve and allocate you a seat, however, if for example, you are allocated a seat for Yom Kippur but can only come for Ne’ilah please understand that your seat cannot be kept vacant all day, when others could use the seat until you arrive.

Therefore, we endeavour to do the following:

· A clear sign will be posted asking ladies to respect the allocated seating plan by not sitting in someone’s allocated place and to vacate the seat as soon as the lady comes.

· If someone is sitting in your allocated seat when you arrive, you have the right to politely ask that person to move.

· We request that you ask the lady to move in the most polite, discreet and nicest way possible so as not to cause embarrassment, offence or any discomfort whatsoever.

Thanking you in advance.

Tizku leshanim rabot

The Gabbaim

PS – Whilst there is no charge for allocating you a seat, any donations made will be gratefully appreciated.

You can reserve by replying to this email or speak directly to Mrs E Jacobs by the DEADLINE: THURSDAY 14 SEPTEMBER

***

Reminder

There is a big Segula

to pay all your debts

before Rosh Hashana

therefore if you have

pledged a donation to the

Bet Hakeneset

and have not yet paid

here is a kind reminder

Tizke Lemitzvot

Ketiva Vechatima Tova

***

JOINT LEARNING PROJECT

To be completed by 17th Cheshvan [nearly 3 months so plenty of time!!!]

[*not daf]

Contact Rabbi Stamler to reserve your section 07738002480

****

SHABBAT

Shabbat Times

לוח זמני תפלה לקיץתשע"ז

Summer Timetable 5777 – 2017

Mincha 6:00 pm

*****

Children’s Service From 10am Every Shabbat morning

Children’s Tehilim straight after Musaf

****

Anyone wishing to donate a Kiddush Please email Moorlanenews

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Q & A on Parashat

Nitzavim

1. What is the connection between the verse "atem nitzavim" and the curses in the previous parsha?
   29:12 – The Jewish People asked, "Who can survive such curses?" Moshe responded, "You’ve done a lot to anger Hashem, and yet "atem nitzavim" you’re still standing before Him."
2. Who were the wood-choppers and water-carriers?
   29:10 – Canaanites who joined the Jewish People under false pretenses.
3. Why can Hashem never "swap" the Jewish people for another nation?
   29:12 – Because Hashem swore to their ancestors that He would never do so.
4. One who ignores the Torah’s warnings "adds drunkenness to thirst." What does this mean?
   29:18 – He causes Hashem to reckon his unintentional sins alongside his intentional ones, punishing him for all.
5. What two cities were destroyed along with Sedom and Amorah?
   29:22 – Admah and Tsevoyim.
6. "The hidden things are for Hashem, our G-d, and the revealed things are for us…" What does this mean?
   29:28 – There is collective culpability only for "open" sins, but not for "hidden" ones.
7. According to Rashi, how will the day of the ingathering of the exiles be "great and difficult?"
   30: 3 – It will be as if Hashem needs to take each individual by the hand and lead him out of exile.
8. Where is the Torah not to be found? Where is it to be found?
   30:12-15 – The Torah is not found in heaven nor across the ocean. Rather, it is "very close to you, in your mouth and in your heart."
9. When and where did the Jewish People become culpable for each other’s sins?
   30:28 – When they crossed the Jordan and accepted the oath on Mt. Eval and Mt. Grizim.
10. How do the earth and sky remind us to keep the mitzvot?
    30:19 – The earth and heavenly bodies, although receiving neither reward nor punishment, always obey Hashem’s will. How much more should we, who stand to receive reward or punishment, obey Hashem.

Vayelech

1. Moshe said, "I am 120 years old today. I am no longer able to go out and come in…" How do we know this does not refer to physical inability?
   31:2 – Because verse 34:7 says "His (Moshe’s) eye never dimmed, and his (youthful) moisture never departed."
2. Which of Moshe’s statements to Yehoshua was later contradicted by Hashem’s command?
   31:7 – Moshe told Yehoshua to share his leadership with the Elders. Hashem later commanded Yehoshua to rule alone.
3. Why does the Torah refer to Succot of the eighth year as though it occurred during the shemita year?
   31:10 – Because the laws of the seventh year still apply to the harvest.
4. Why does the Torah command that babies be brought to the Torah reading?
   31:12 – To give reward to those who bring them.
5. What does it mean that Hashem "hides His face?"
   31:17 – He ignores their distress.
6. What function does the song Ha’azinu serve?
   31:21 – It warns what will befall the Jewish People if they abandon Torah.
7. Which verse promises that the Torah will never be totally forgotten?
   31:21 – "For (the Torah) will not be forgotten from the mouth of their offspring."
8. What is the difference of opinion regarding the placing of the Torah scroll which Moshe gave the levi’im?
   31:26 – Whether it was placed outside but adjacent to the Ark, or inside next to the Tablets.
9. On the day of Moshe’s death, why didn’t Moshe gather the people by blowing trumpets as he normally would have?
   31:28 – Blowing the trumpets expressed Moshe’s dominion, and "there is no dominion on the day of death." (Kohelet 8)
10. Moshe said, "For I know that after my death you will act corruptly," but, in fact, this didn’t occur until after Yehoshua’s death. What does this teach us?
    31:29 – That a person’s student is as dear to him as himself As long as Yehoshua was alive, it was as though Moshe himself

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Halachot from Maran Rabbi Ovadia Yosef Ztz’l

"אשרי העם יודעי תרועה"

מובא במדרש רבה (פר’ אמור פר’ כט אות ד), על הפסוק "אשר העם יודעי תרועה", אמר רבי יאשיה, וכי אין אומות העולם יודעים להריע? כמה קרנות יש להם, כמה חצוצרות יש להם? אלא, "העם יודעי תרועה", אלו ישראל, שהם יודעים ומכירים לרצות את בוראם בתרועה. והוא עומד מכסא דין ויושב על כסא רחמים, ומתמלא ברחמים על עמו ישראל. וזהו שנאמר "אשר העם יודעי תרועה", כלומר, מכירים ויודעים את סגולתה ומעלתה וישובו אל ה’.

וסיפר הגאון רבינו עזרא עטיה זצ"ל, ראש ישיבת פורת יוסף, כי הגאון רבי שלמה לניאדו, בעל שו"ת בית דינו של שלמה, שהיה רבה של חלב, היא ארם צובא, היה נוהג בראש השנה לעבור לפני התיבה כשליח צבור, כי ניחון בקול ערב, נעים זמירות ישראל, וגם היה תוקע בשופר. וכן היה נוהג מידי שנה בשנה. כשהגיע הרב לזקנה ושיבה, הודיע לפרנסי הקהל שבאו לביתו לבקרו בשבת שלפני ראש השנה, שנבצר ממנו השנה להיות שליח צבור ותוקע, מפני מצב בריאותו. נענו הפרנסים ואמרו, אולי יואיל רבינו לומר לבנו הגאון רבי אפרים (בעל שו"ת דגל מחנה אפרים) שהוא יעבור לפני התיבה ויתקע בשופר. כששמע כן בנו רבי אפרים, בא לפני מר אביו ואמר לו, אבא, אני מוכן למלא את מקומך השנה, נענה הגאון לדבריו ובירך אותו בהצלחה. וכן היה.

בראש השנה הלך רבי אפרים לבית הכנסת, ועבר לפני התיבה, וכשעמד לתקוע, נתבלבל קצת בתקיעות ותיכף ומיד תיקן כדת. ובבוא ראשי הקהל אל הרב בעל בית דינו של שלמה, לבקרו לנשק ידיו כנהוג, שאל אותם, איך היו התפילות, השיבו בשבח התפלות הנפלאות שהתפלל רבי אפרים כשליח צבור. ושאל, איך היו התקיעות, ועל זה השיבו בשפה רפה, והרגיש שלא היו תקינות כל כך. תיכף ומיד קרא לרבי אפרים, ושאלו על כך, השיבו רבי אפרים, כי היה קורא "יהי רצון" שלפני התקיעות, ואמר "ושלח מלאכיך הקדושים הממונים על התקיעות", והנה תיכף ראה שבא המלאך הממונה על ידו, ויעף אליו אחד מן השרפים והתייצב לימינו, לזאת היה חרד מפניו ונתבלבל. שחק בעל הבית דינו של שלמה, ואמר לו, הנה אתה הזמנת אותו ותירא מפניו. ועל כגון זה נאמר, אשר העם יודעי תרועה.

אכן לנו הדלים, לפחות נכוין לשוב בתשובה, וכמו שאמרו במדרש תהלים, "תקעו בחודש שופר", חדשו ושפרו מעשיכם על ידי השופר. כי השופר, רומז גם על השופר שבזמן מתן תורה, כמו שכתוב בו "ויהי קול השופר הולך וחזק מאד", ולכן אסור להשיח (לדבר) בשעת תקיעות השופר, כי על אותה שעה כתוב במדרש (פר’ יתרו סוף פר’ כט), שהיה כל העולם שקט, חמור לא נער, סוס לא צנף, צפור לא צפצף, מלאכים לא עפו, שרפים לא אמרו קדוש, וקול השופר נשמע מסוף העולם ועד סופו. ולכן אין להשיח או להשתעל ברצון, וצריך לשבת דומיה בעת התקיעות לקיים מצות עשה לשמוע קול שופר. קחו עמכם דברים ושובו אל ה’, אשרי העם יודעי תרועה ומכירים בה לשוב בתשובה

“Fortunate is the Nation which knows the Shofar Blasts”

The Midrash Rabba (Parashat Emor Chapter 29, Section 4) states regarding the verse, “Fortunate is the nation which knows the Shofar blasts”: “Rabbi Yoshiya said: ‘Do the nations of the world not know how to blow? They have so many horns and so many trumpets! Rather, ‘The nation which knows the Shofar blasts,’ refers to the Jewish nation which knows how to appease their G-d with Shofar blasts. He (Hashem) then arises from the throne of judgment and sits on the throne of mercy and becomes filled with compassion for the Jewish nation.’” This is what is meant by the verse, “Fortunate is the nation which knows the Shofar blasts,” meaning the people who know the auspicious meaning and importance of the Shofar blasts and use them to return to Hashem.

Hagaon Harav Ezra Attiazt”l, late Rosh Yeshiva of Porat Yosef, recounts how Hagaon Harav Shlomo Laniado zt”l, author of the Responsa Bet Dino Shel Shlomo and Chief Rabbi of Aleppo, Syria, would serve as Chazzan on Rosh Hashanah since he was blessed with a pleasant and melodious voice in addition to serving as the Shofar blower. He would customarily do so every year. When the rabbi grew older though, he notified the respected community activists that came to visit his home on the Shabbat preceding Rosh Hashanah that due to the current status of his health, he would be unable to serve as Chazzan and Shofar blower during the coming Rosh Hashanah. The community activists replied by asking if the rabbi would request that his son, Hagaon Harav Efraim (author of Responsa Degel Machaneh Efraim), serve as the Chazzan and Shofar blower instead. When his son, Harav Efraim, heard of this, he came before his father and told him that he agreed to fill his father’s place this year. His father gave him his blessing and so it came to be.

On Rosh Hashanah, Harav Efraim went to the synagogue and served as Chazzan but when he began to blow the Shofar, he erred slightly in the order of blasts, but immediately corrected himself as prescribed by Halacha. Upon arriving at the home of his father, Harav Shlomo, in order to visit him and kiss his hand as was customary, the leaders of the community were asked how the prayer services went to which they replied that the services conducted by Harav Efraim were truly amazing. When asked how the Shofar blowing went, they replied half-heartedly and the rabbi understood that it did not go so well. He immediately summoned his son, Harav Efraim, and inquired about this matter. His son replied, “While reciting the ‘Yehi Ratzon’ text prior to the Shofar blowing, I said, ‘Send [me] your holy angels who are appointed over the Shofar blasts.’ I immediately saw one of the fiery angels fly towards me and stand on my right side! I became frightened and this caused me to become confused.” His father then chuckled and told him, “You invited him and then you were afraid of him?!” About such an incident does the verse state, “Fortunate is the nation which knows the Shofar blasts!”

However, regarding us ordinary people, we should, at the very least, have in mind to repent, as the Midrash Tehillim states regarding the verse, “Blow the Shofar on the [new] month”: “Renew and better your deeds through the Shofar.” The Shofar represents the Shofar that was blown during the giving of the Torah, as the verse states, “And the sound of the Shofar became [progressively] much stronger.” Thus, one may not converse during the blowing of the Shofar, for regarding this time, the Midrash (Parashat Yitro, end of Chapter 29) states, “The entire world was silent; no horses neighed, no donkeys brayed, no birds chirped, no angles flew, no fiery angels recited ‘Kadosh,’ and the sound of the Shofar could be heard from one end of the world to the other.” Therefore, one should not speak or cough willingly; one should sit silently during the Shofar blowing and have in mind to fulfill the positive Torah commandment to hear the sound of the Shofar. Take these words with you and use them to return to Hashem while utilizing the sound of the Shofar for this purpose

תקיעת שופר

מצות עשה מן התורה לשמוע תרועת השופר ביום ראש השנה, שנאמר "יום תרועה יהיה לכם". ואסור לדבר בין התקיעות, וכל שכן בזמן התקיעות עצמם, ונחלקו הפוסקים אם יש לומר וידוי בין התקיעות, (כפי שמודפס בהרבה מחזורים.) או שאסור לומר וידוי בין התקיעות, ודעת מרן הרב עובדיה יוסף שליט"א, שאסור לומר וידוי בין התקיעות, ושאף מי שנהג כן, צריך לבטל מנהגו, שנכנס לחשש ברכה לבטלה, ולספק אם חייב לחזור שוב ולברך על התקיעות, ומכל מקום, אם רוצה להרהר הוידוי בליבו בלבד, רשאי לעשות כן בין התקיעות, אבל בשעת התקיעות עצמם ידום ויקשיב היטב לקול השופר.

נשים פטורות ממצות שופר, שהרי היא מצות עשה שהזמן גרמא, וכל מצוות עשה שהזמן גרמן נשים פטורות, כמו שביארנו בכמה הזדמנויות. ומכל מקום נהגו הנשים להחמיר על עצמן ולבוא לבית הכנסת לשמוע תקיעת שופר, ואשה שלא היה באפשרותה לבוא לבית הכנסת, יכולה לשמוע תקיעת שופר בבית, (או בבית הכנסת בשעות הצהריים כפי שמקובל בכמה מקומות). ואין לברך על תקיעת שופר כשתוקע עבור נשים, משום שנשים אינם מברכות על מצות עשה שהזמן גרמא. ויש נשים מעדות אשכנז שנוהגות לברך לעצמן על תקיעת שופר, ויש להן על מה שיסמוכו. ומכל מקום אין לתוקע עצמו לברך עבור נשים גם למנהג זה.

כל היום כשר למצות שופר, מהנץ החמה ועד לשקיעתה, ולכן הבא לתקוע לנשים, רשאי לתקוע כל היום כולו עד שקיעת החמה.

כלל גדול בידינו, כי מצות צריכות כוונה, וכפי שביארנו בהלכה מיוחדת. ועל כן, השומע קול שופר בראש השנה, צריך שישים לבו, לכוין שבשמיעת קול השופר הוא מקיים את מצות השופר

Blowing the Shofar on Rosh Hashanah

It is a positive Torah commandment to hear the Shofar blasts on the day of Rosh Hashanah, as the verse states, “It shall be a day of [Shofar] blasts for you.” One may not speak between the various sets of Shofar blasts and certainly not during the blasts themselves. The Poskim disagree regarding whether or not it is permissible to recite the order of confession (which is printed in most Rosh Hashanah prayer books). Maran Harav Ovadia Yosef Shlit”a rules that one may not recite this confessional between the sets of the Shofar blasts, for this causes one to enter the realm of a blessing in vain and it is doubtful whether or not one must recite the blessing on the Shofar blasts again; even if one has customarily recited this confessional prayer in the past, one must discontinue this custom at once. Nevertheless, if one would like to read this confessional prayer with his eyes only and ponder it in his heart, this is indeed permissible between the sets of blasts; however, during the time the Shofar blasts are actually being sounded, one must sit silently and listen to the Shofar blasts carefully.

Women are exempt from hearing the Shofar blasts since this is positive, time-bound Mitzvah and women are exempt from such Mitzvot as we have discussed on several occasions. Nevertheless, it is customary that women act stringently and come to the synagogue to hear the Shofar blasts. If a woman did not have the opportunity to come to the synagogue may indeed hear the Shofar blasts at home (or later on in the synagogue during the afternoon hours of Rosh Hashanah, as has become the prevalent custom in many synagogues). When one blows the Shofar for women, one may not recite the “Lishmo’a Kol Shofar” blessing since women are exempt from such positive, time-bound Mitzvot. There are some Ashkenazi women who customarily recite the blessing on the Shofar for themselves and they indeed have on whom to rely. Nonetheless, the one blowing the Shofar should not recite a blessing when blowing for women, even according to this view.

The Mitzvah of hearing Shofar blasts may be fulfilled the entire day of Rosh Hashanah, from sunrise until sunset. Therefore, if one would like to blow the Shofar for women, he may do so all day, until sunset.

We have a great rule that “Mitzvot require intention”, as we have discussed in a special Halacha. Thus, before hearing the Shofar blasts on Rosh Hashanah, one must pay attention and have in mind to fulfill the positive Torah commandment of hearing the Shofar blasts when hearing the Shofar

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During the week

Shiurim in our Bet Hakeneset

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1 Rosh Hashana Yom Kippur Succot 5778 2017.pdf
2 Winter Timetable 5778 2017-18.pdf

Announcements

Mincha & Arvit next week 7:15 pm

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SELICHOT

Sundays 7 am

Weekdays 6 am

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Elul 5777

September 2017

Ladies’ Seating Plan for the Yamim Noraim – High Holy Days

Dear Ladies,

We hope this letter finds you well and in good health.

As we know tefila, prayer, is our strongest tool in connecting directly to Hashem and especially during the upcoming awe-inspiring days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, now only a few days away. It is vitally important that we use our tefilot to ask Hashem to inscribe each and every one of us in the Book of Life and that all may merit a year of health and happiness.

The Shulhan Aruch expresses the importance of makom kabua, makon kodesh – that a person’s regular and fixed place where he or she prays has a direct relationship to the power of the tefila, to the extent that the place a person prays is called kodesh – holy.

Therefore, in order to avoid disappointment on such special days we are willing to reserve a seat for lady members of our community.

We will attempt, to the best of our ability, to allocate the seats according to where the ladies sit throughout the year, but we cannot guarantee how the seats will be allocated. We will also consider accommodating places for unmarried girls over Bat Mitzva to sit next to or close to their mothers.

Please tick for which day(s):

1) ONLY Rosh Hashana (2 days) _______

2) ONLY Yom Kippur _______

3) BOTH (Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur) _______

Please let us know below who the seat is for:

1) Name _______________________________

2) Name _______________________________

3) Name _______________________________

DEADLINE: THURSDAY 15 SEPTEMBER

Please note, we will gladly reserve and allocate you a seat, however, if for example, you are allocated a seat for Yom Kippur but can only come for Ne’ilah please understand that your seat cannot be kept vacant all day, when others could use the seat until you arrive.

Therefore, we endeavour to do the following:

· A clear sign will be posted asking ladies to respect the allocated seating plan by not sitting in someone’s allocated place and to vacate the seat as soon as the lady comes.

· If someone is sitting in your allocated seat when you arrive, you have the right to politely ask that person to move.

· We request that you ask the lady to move in the most polite, discreet and nicest way possible so as not to cause embarrassment, offence or any discomfort whatsoever.

Thanking you in advance.

Tizku leshanim rabot

The Gabbaim

PS – Whilst there is no charge for allocating you a seat, any donations made will be gratefully appreciated.

You can reserve by replying to this email or speak directly to Mrs E Jacobs by the DEADLINE: THURSDAY 15 SEPTEMBER

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Reminder

There is a big Segula

to pay all your debts

before Rosh Hashana

therefore if you have

pledged a donation to the

Bet Hakeneset

and have not yet paid

here is a kind reminder

Tizke Lemitzvot

Ketiva Vechatima Tova

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JOINT LEARNING PROJECT

To be completed by 17th Cheshvan [nearly 3 months so plenty of time!!!]

[*not daf]

Contact Rabbi Stamler to reserve your section 07738002480

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SHABBAT

Shabbat Times

לוח זמני תפלה לקיץתשע"ז

Summer Timetable 5777 – 2017

* For those not in synagogue, but wishing to bring in Shabbat with the community, candles should be lit about 30 minutes after the time listed for Minha and Kabbalat Shabbat. (Unless the time listed in the ‘latest candle lighting’ column is earlier, when candles should be lit by that time, in all cases.)

Mincha 6:00 pm

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Children’s Service From 10 am Every Shabbat morning

Children’s Tehilim straight after Musaf

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Anyone wishing to donate a Kiddush Please email Moorlanenews

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Q & A on Parashat Ki Tavo

All references are to the verses and Rashi’s commentary, unless otherwise stated

1. When did the obligation to bring bikkurim begin?
   26:1 – After the Land was conquered and divided.
2. Bikkurim are from which crops?
   26:2 – The seven species for which Eretz Yisrael is praised.
3. How does one designate bikkurim?
   26:2 – When he sees the first fruit ripen on a tree, he binds a piece of straw around it to mark it as bikkurim.
4. Who shakes the basket containing the bikkurim?
   26:4 – The kohen places his hands under the hands of the one bringing it, and they wave the basket together.
5. What does "v’anita v’amarta" mean?
   26:5 – Speak loudly.
6. Which Arami "tried to destroy my father?"
   26:5 – Lavan.
7. When during the year may bikkurim be brought? Until when are the special verses recited?
   26:11 – Bikkurim are brought from Shavuot until Channuka. The verses are recited only until Succot.
8. Someone declaring that he separated terumah and ma’aser says: "And I didn’t forget." What didn’t he forget?
   26:13 – To bless Hashem.
9. What were the Jewish People to do with the 12 stones on Mt. Eval?
   10. 27:2 – Build an altar.
10. Six tribes stood on Mt. Eval and six on Mt. Gerizim. Who and what were in the middle?
    27:12 – Kohanim, levi’im and the Holy Ark.
11. Who "causes the blind to go astray?"
    27:18 – Any person who intentionally gives bad advice.
12. How does one "strike another secretly?"
    27:24 – By slandering him.
13. Eleven curses were spoken on Mt. Eval. What is the significance of this number?
    27:24 – Each curse corresponds to one of the tribes, except for the tribe of Shimon. Since Moshe didn’t intend to bless the tribe of Shimon before his death, he did not want to curse them either.
14. Why are sheep called "ashterot"?
    28:4 – Because they "enrich" (m’ashirot) their owners.
15. How is the manner of expressing the curses in Parshat Bechukotai more severe than in this week’s parsha?
    28:23 – In Bechukotai the Torah speaks in the plural, whereas in this week’s Parsha the curses are mentioned in the singular.

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Halachot from Maran Rabbi Ovadia Yosef Ztz’l

חודש הרחמים והסליחות

כבר הזכרנו באחת ההלכות הקודמות, מאיזה טעם אנו נוהגים להרבות בסליחות ותחנונים בכל ימי חודש אלול, שהוא מסוגל לסליחה וכפרה.

וידוע שבימים אלה אנו קרובים יותר לה’ יתברך, והוא ממהר לשמוע תפילות. כמו שדרשו "אני לדודי ודודי לי", ראשי תיבות אלול. וכן בפסוק "ובא לציון גואל ולשבי פשע ביעקב", רמוז חודש "אלול". וכתב רבינו יונה בספר היראה בזו הלשון, "משנכנס אלול עד מוצאי יום הכפורים יהיה ירא וחרד מאימת יום הדין". ובזכות התשובה בימים אלה, אנו עתידים להגאל, כמו שנרמז בפסוקים שאמר דוד המלך, "לדוד ה’ אורי וישעי", אורי, בראש השנה, וישעי, ביום הכפורים. ומסיים דוד המלך, "לולא האמנתי לראות בטוב ה’", ופירשו רבותינו (בברכות ד.), שהיה דוד המלך מתיירא (מפחד) שמא יגרום החטא ולא תבא הישועה, ולכן יש ניקוד (נקודות) מעל המילה "לולא" האמנתי לראות בטוב ה’, שרצונו לרמוז בזה על חודש "אלול" (אותיות לולא), שבזכות תשובתינו בימים אלה נוושע ביום הדין.

וכתב הגאון רבי דוד עמר ז"ל, בספר תפלה לדוד (סי’ ריב), שבחודש אלול ובעשרת ימי תשובה, נכון מאד לכוין בברכת "השיבנו אבינו לתורתך" שבתפלת שמונה עשרה, ולהזכיר כמה משמותיהם של אלה שנטו מדרכי ה’ ותורתו, ויצאו לתרבות רעה, וביחוד אם הם קרוביו. והביא כל זה מרן רבינו הגדול זצ"ל הכ"מ בספרו חזון עובדיה (עמוד כה). וכמו כן בודאי שראוי לאדם להתפלל גם על עצמו, שיזכה לשוב בתשובה, ולעלות מעלה מעלה בתורה וביראת ה’. וגם כל בקשותיו האחרות, יהיו לשם שמים, שאם תהיה לו פרנסה טובה ובריאות טובה, יוכל להתחזק עוד ועוד בעבודת ה’.

ובאמת שאם נתבונן, הלא נראה כל איש ואשה, כמה אנו מאריכים בתפלה על קרובינו שחלילה אינם בקו הבריאות, או מעוכבי זיווג וכדומה. והלא הדברים קל וחומר, כי הכאב על מי שאינו הולך בדרך ה’ הוא גדול פי כמה וכמה, שמאבד עצמו מחיי העולם הבא, ואינו מזכה את עצמו בזכויות רבות לחיי עולם הנצח, אשר כל קורות האדם בזה העולם הם כאין וכאפס לעומת חיי העולם הבא.

וזכור לנו, שאחר פטירת רעייתו של מרן רבינו זצ"ל, היה מרבה בתפלות ובלימוד תורה לעלוי נשמתה, והיה מזכיר מה שכתבו המקובלים, שיראה אדם את קרובו הנפטר כאילו הוא עומד ומתחנן לפניו שיצילו מאש אוכלה. כי צורך האדם בעולם הבא לזכויות ומעשים טובים בכדי לזכות בחיי העולם הבא, הוא גדול לאין שיעור מכל צרכיו בזה העולם השפל והחולף.

והגאון רבי דוד עמר הנזכר, הביא בספרו את הנוסח הנכון למי שרוצה להוסיף שמות קרובים בברכת "השיבינו", שיאמר בתוך הברכה, אחרי אמירת "השיבנו אבינו לתורתך וקרבנו מלכינו לעבודתך והחזירינו בתשובה שלימה לפניך": יהי רצון מלפניך ה’ אלהינו ואלהי אבותינו, שתחתור חתירה מתחת כסא כבודך להחזיר בתשובה שלימה כל פושעי ישראל, ובכללם תחזיר בתשובה שלימה את (יאמר את שם הקרוב ואת שם אמו, כגון דוד בן אסתר), כי ימינך פשוטה לקבל שבים, ברוך אתה ה’ הרוצה בתשובה.

(ונכון שבסיום הברכה כשמזכיר את שם ה’, יכוין שניקוד שם ה’ בכתיבתו בברכה זו, הוא בסגול, כפי שמודפס בסידורים המדויקים).

ויהי רצון שהשם יתברך יחזיר את כל פושעי ישראל בתשובה שלימה וידעו תועי רוח בינה, ומלאה הארץ דעה את ה’ כמים לים מכסים

The Month of Mercy and Forgiveness

We have already discussed in a previous Halacha the reason why we customarily recite Selichot prayers throughout the entire month of Elul which is an auspicious time for forgiveness and atonement.

It is well-known that during these days we are closer to Hashem and he hears our prayers more quickly than usual, as our Sages have expounded the verse, “Ani Le’Dodi Ve’Dodi Li” (“I am to my beloved and my beloved is to me”) which is an acronym for the word “Elul.” Similarly, the month of Elul is also hinted in the verse, “Uva Le’Zion Go’ElUl’shaveh Fesha Be’Yaakov.” Furthermore, Rabbeinu Yonah writes in his Sefer Ha’Yir’ah: “From the beginning of Elul until the conclusion of Yom Kippur, one should be filled with fear and trepidation over the Day of Judgment.” In the merit of the repentance during these days, we shall one day be redeemed, as is hinted in the verses composed by King David, “A Psalm by David, Hashem is my light and salvation”: “My light” on Rosh Hashanah “and salvation” on Yom Kippur. King David ends this Psalm by saying, “Were it not that I believe that I should see the goodness of Hashem,” and our Sages explain (Berachot 4b) that King David feared that sins might impede the salvation and thus, the word “Luleh” (“Were it not,” also the same Hebrew letters as “Elul”) is dotted in the scripture in order to allude to the fact that in the merit of our repentance during the month of Elul, we shall be saved on the Day of Judgment.

Hagaon Harav David Amar zt”l writes in his Sefer Tefillah Le’David (Chapter 212) that during the month of Elul and the Ten Days of Repentance (the ten days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur), it is especially worthy to recite the blessing of “Hashivenu Avinu Le’Toratecha” (fifth blessing of the Amidah prayer which deals with repentance) with proper concentration and to mention the names of some individuals who have strayed from the proper path of Hashem and His Torah, especially if they are one’s relatives. Maran Rabbeinu Ovadia Yosef zt”l quotes this in his Chazon Ovadia-Yamim Nora’im (page 25). One should certainly pray that one merit repenting fully on his own and continue to ascend higher and higher in spirituality.

Indeed, if we stop and think for a moment, do we not all pray lengthily for our relatives who, G-d-forbid, are not in the best of health or have yet to find their marriage partners and the like? Certainly the pain one feels for an individual who does not follow the path of Hashem is much greater, for such an individual loses his share in the World to Come and misses out on countless merits in the Eternal World; anything a person can experience in this world pales greatly in comparison to life in the World to Come.

We remember that when Maran zt”l’s wife passed away, he would learn and pray a substantial amount in order to elevate her soul. He would mention what the Mekubalim say that one should imagine his deceased relative as though he is standing before him and begging him to save him from a raging inferno. One’s need for merits and good deeds in order to merit entry in the World to Come is infinitely greater than any physical need one may have in this lowly, fleeting world.

The aforementioned Hagaon Harav David Amar quotes in his work the correct text for one who wishes to insert names of relatives in the blessing of “Hashivenu.” After reciting “Hashivenu Avinu Le’Toratecha Ve’Karevenu Malkeinu La’Avodatecha Ve’Hachazirenu Bitshuva Shelema Lefanecha,” one inserts: “May it be Your will, Hashem our G-d and the G-d of our fathers, that You dig a tunnel under Your Holy Throne to accept the repentance of all of the sinners of Israel, and similarly may You cause so-and-so (insert name) son/daughter of so-and-so (insert mother’s name) to repent fully, for Your right hand is outstretched to accept those who are repentant,” then conclude the blessing, “Baruch Ata Hashem Ha’Rotzeh Bitshuva.” Here is the actual Hebrew text one should recite in the Amida:

יהי רצון מלפניך ה’ אלקינו ואלקי אבותינו שתחתור חתירה מתחת כסא כבודך להחזיר בתשובה שלימה לכל פושעי ישראל, וכן תחזיר בתשובה שלימה את פלוני בן פלונית, כי ימינך פשוטה לקבל שבים.

It is correct that when one concludes this blessing upon reciting the name of Hashem one should have in mind that this name of Hashem is punctuated with the “Segol” mark, as is printed in precise Siddurim; one should concentrate on this but not utter it.

May Hashem return all sinners of Israel to Him through complete repentance and may the land be filled with the knowledge of the Hashem like the waters that fill the sea.

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Q & A on Parashat Ki Tese

All references are to the verses and Rashi’s commentary, unless otherwise stated

1. Why must a captured woman mourn her family for a month in her captor’s house?
   21:13 – So her captor will find her unattractive.
2. What fraction of the inheritance does a first-born receive if he has a) one brother? b) two brothers?
   21:17 – a) 2/3 b) 1/2
3. What will become of a ben sorer u’moreh if his parents don’t bring him to court?
   21:22 – He will eventually rob and kill to support his physical indulgences.
4. Why is it a degradation to G-d to hang a criminal’s body on the gallows overnight?
   21:23 – Because humans are made in G-d’s image; and because the Jewish People are G-d’s children.
5. What do you do if you find a lost object that costs money to maintain?
   22:2 – Sell it and save the money for the owner.
6. Why does the Torah forbid wearing the clothing of the opposite gender?
   22:5 – It leads to immorality.
7. Why does the Torah link the mitzvah of sending away the mother-bird with the mitzvah of making a railing on the roof of your house?
   22:8 – To teach that one mitzvah leads to another, and to prosperity.
8. When is it permitted to wear wool and linen?
   22:12 – Wool tzitzit on a linen garment.
9. What three things happen to a man who falsely slanders his bride?
   22:18 – He receives lashes, pays a fine of 100 silver selah, and may never divorce her against her will.
10. Although the Egyptians enslaved the Jewish People, the Torah allows marriage with their third-generation converts. Why?
    23:8 – Because they hosted Yaakov and his family during the famine.
11. Why is causing someone to sin worse than killing him?
    23:9 – Murder takes away life in this world, while causing someone to sin takes away his life in the World to Come.
12. If one charges interest to his fellow Jew, how many commandments has he transgressed?
    23:21 – Three; two negative commandments and a positive commandment.
13. What is the groom’s special obligation to his bride during their first year together?
    24:5 – To gladden her.
14. When is a groom required to fight in a non-obligatory war?
    24:5 – When he remarries his ex-wife.
15. What type of object may one not take as collateral?
    24:6 – Utensils used to prepare food.

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Halachot from Maran Rabbi Ovadia Yosef Ztz’l

חודש אלול – מעשה במרן זצ"ל בענין שמיעת מוזיקה

כתב מרן רבינו עובדיה יוסף זצ"ל: חסד גדול עשה ה’ יתברך עם עמו ישראל, כאשר גילה להם, כי יום המשפט הוא יום א’ בתשרי. (כי באמת, גם אומות העולם נדונים ביום זה, אבל אין להם ידיעה על כך, ולכן אינם מתכוננים כראוי ליום זה, ומפסידים טובה הרבה). וכמו שנאמר בתהלים, "תִּקְעוּ בַחֹדֶשׁ שׁוֹפָר בַּכֵּסֶה לְיוֹם חַגֵּנוּ, כִּי חֹק לְיִשְׂרָאֵל הוּא מִשְׁפָּט לֵאלֹהֵי יַעֲקֹב". כי בנוהג שבעולם, מי שעבר על החוק, ונתפס אצל שוטר והלה יקחהו באופן מיידי לפני שופט, להשפט בצורה מהירה, הלא קרוב לודאי שלא יוכל להתמודד מול האשמות שהוא מואשם בהן. מה שאין כן אילו תנתן לו האפשרות לדעת את מועד המשפט, ויוכל להתמודד ולהתיעץ עם עורך דין טוב, בכדי שידע מה לטעון במשפט ומי יסנגר עליו, שאז בודאי יש תקוה שיוכל לצאת זכאי במשפטו.

כמו כן אנו, מיום ראש חודש אלול, מריעים בשופר וקמים לסליחות ומתכוננים ליום הדין שאומרים בו הרת עולם היום יעמיד במשפט כל יצורי עולם, ואז מתחילים גם כן לומר בתפילה, המלך הקדוש, המלך המשפט, ובאלול אנו מתכוננים כראוי להכין פרקליטים גדולים לפני הקדוש ברוך הוא, ואלו הם פרקליטיו של אדם, תורה ומצוות ומעשים טובים (שבת לב.), ובתוספתא אמרו, צדקה וגמילות חסדים, פרקליטים גדולים הם בין ישראל לאביהם שבשמים. וכן שנינו באבות, כל העושה לו מצוה אחת, קונה לו פרקליט אחד. ואם הפרקליט הוא גיבור ואיש מלחמה, כגון שהוא נוצר מפי תלמיד חכם העוסק בתורה, בודאי שאז אותם המקטרגים לא יהיו אלא כשועלים קטנים מחבלים כרמים, שגערה אחת מאת סנגור כזה תשתק את כולם. וכמו שאנו אומרים בסליחות, חתום פה שטן ואל ישטין עלינו, ויעמוד מלאך ומליץ טוב בעדינו, הוא יגיד יושרנו. הרי פתח רחב להוציא אותנו זכאים לפני ה’ יתברך, וכמו שאמרו במסכת ראש השנה, על הפסוק, כי מי גוי גדול אשר לו אלקים קרובים אליו, כה’ אלקינו בכל קראנו אליו.

רבינו האר"י ז"ל כתב בשער הפסוקים, על הפסוק העוסק בבריחת הרוצח לעיר מקלט, ששם לא יאונה לו כל רע, וכפי שנאמר "אנה לידו ושמתי לך" (מקום אשר ינוס שמה). ראשי תיבות "אלול", לרמוז כי חודש אלול ניתן לתשובה, ושב ורפא לו. והכל צריכים לחזור בתשובה, וכן אמרו על הפסוק: ומל ה’ אלהיך "את לבבך ואת לבב" זרעך, ראשי תיבות אלול, לרמוז על הבא ליטהר, מסייעין אותו. ובפרט בענין התשובה שהקדוש ברוך הוא אמר לישראל, פתחו לי פתח כחודו של מחט, ואני אפתח לכם פתח כפתחו של אולם. וזוהי הסיעתא דשמיא לחזור בתשובה.

ועוד נרמז חודש אלול בפסוק, ומשלוח מנות "איש לרעהו ומתנות לאביונים", ראשי תיבות אלול. כי זהו הזמן הראוי ביותר למצות הצדקה, שמכפרת עוון. וכמו שאמרו במדרש, הקרבנות אין מכפרים אלא על השוגג, והצדקה מכפרת בין על השוגג ובין על המזיד.

בימי חודש אלול, על האדם להתבונן ולעשות חשבון נפש עם עצמו, להתחזק בעבודת ה’. ואפילו מי שזכה לעבוד את ה’ כראוי, עליו להתחזק ביתר שאת בימים אלה, ברצינות גדולה ובריכוז, כדי שלא יאבד ימים יקרים אלה.

ומעשה היה, לפני כשש שנים, שנסע מרן זצוק"ל ברכבו לאיזה שיעור תורני, ובשעת הנסיעה רצה הנהג שלו להסב לו קורת רוח, לכן הפעיל "דיסק" עם מוזיקה ייחודית שמרן זצ"ל היה אוהב לשמוע. פנה אליו מרן זצ"ל בנעימות וביקש ממנו שיכבה את המוזיקה, מהרי ימים אלה הם ימי חודש אלול!!! ישמע חכם ויוסף לקח!

The Month of Elul

Maran Rabbeinu Ovadia Yosef zt”l writes that Hashem bestowed a great kindness upon his Jewish nation by revealing to them that the Day of Judgment is on the First of Tishrei (for in truth, the other nations of the world are also judged on this day, but since they do not know about this, they do not prepare themselves accordingly and they miss out on a substantial benefit), as the verse states, “Blow the Shofar on the [new] month, on the designated day of our festival. For it is a statute for Israel, a [day of] judgment for the G-d of Yaakov.” Usually, if one breaks the law and is caught by a police officer, if the officer takes him immediately in front of a judge to be judged in a swift manner, it is almost certain that the defendant will not be able to cope with the charges being leveled against him. If, however, he is made known of the court-date and given the chance to meet with and seek adequate legal counsel and know who will represent him in court, he surely has hope to be found innocent in his case.

Similarly, from the day of Rosh Chodesh Elul, we begin blowing the Shofar and waking up early in the morning to recite Selichot (prayer service for atonement) in preparation for the Day of Judgment when we will proclaim, “Today is the world’s birthday; today He shall make [everyone] stand for judgment, all creations of the world,” and is likewise the day we begin to recite “Ha’Melech Ha’Kadosh” and “Ha’Melech Ha’Mishpat” in our prayers. During Elul, we prepare great “attorneys” before Hashem; one’s “attorneys” are Torah, Mitzvot, and worthy deeds (Shabbat 32a). The Tosefta states, “Charity and acts of kindness are great defenders between Israel and their Father in Heaven.” We have also learned in Pirkei Avot, “One who performs one Mitzvah acquires for himself one defending attorney.” If the defender is strong and mighty, such as one formed by a Torah scholar who delves in Torah, certainly the other prosecuting angels will only be like small foxes in comparison and one roar from the defending angel shall be sufficient to silence them all. As we say in Selichot, “Seal the mouth of Satan so that he may not prosecute us; may a good-speaking advisor stand up for us and speak of our righteousness.” This is a tremendous opportunity to allow us be found innocent in the eyes of Hashem, as the Gemara in Rosh Hashanah expounds the verse, “For who is a great nation that has a God who is close to him, like Hashem our G-d [who is close to us] whenever we call him.”

Rabbeinu HaAri z”l writes in his Sha’ar Ha’Pesukim regarding the verse which deals with the fleeing of a murderer to a City of Refuge where no harm will befall him, as the verse states (in Hebrew), “Eenah Le’Yado VeSamti Lecha,” which is the acronym of “Elul.” This hints to us that Elul is the month of repentance and if one returns, he shall be healed. All must repent, as the verse states, “U’mal Hashem Elokecha Et Levavecha Ve’et Levav Zar’echa,” which is likewise an acronym of “Elul,” to hint that if one comes to purify himself, he is aided from Above. This is especially so regarding repentance about which Hashem tells the Jewish nation, “Open for me like the opening of a needle and I shall open for you like the opening of a hall.” This refers to the Heavenly assistance offered to repent.

The word “Elul” is also hinted in the verse, “U’mishloach Manot Ish Le’Re’ehu U’Matanot La’Evyonim,” to teach us that this is the most opportune time to fulfill the Mitzvah of charity, which atones for sins. As the Midrash tells us, “Offerings atone only for sins performed unknowingly, but charity atones for sins performed knowingly or unknowingly.”

During the month of Elul, one must carry out self-introspection and strengthen one’s self in the service of Hashem. Even one who serves Hashem properly must strengthen himself even more during these days amid much seriousness and focus so as not to lose out on these precious days.

An incident once occurred approximately six years ago when Maran zt”l was on his way to deliver a Torah class. His personal driver wanted Maran to relax and enjoy himself a little so he turned on a CD of special music that Maran enjoyed. Maran zt”l turned to the driver and pleasantly requested that he turn off the music, for we are in the midst of the month of Elul!

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Aseret Hadiberot

Standing or sitting?

http://www.darkeabotenou.com/

‘Aseret haDiberot – The Ten Utterances

It is the minhag of all Jews from North Africa, as well as our brothers, the Ashkenazim, to stand up during the reading of the ‘aseret hadiberot on Shavu’ot, Parashat Yitro, and Perashat va-Ethanan.[1] Ribi Shalom Messas zt”l[2] writes that we stand in order to stir feelings of fear and trepidation, as we felt at Har Sinai. However, this minhag has been disputed amongst some halachic authorities.

The Gemara (Berachot 12a) relates that at sunrise, the Kohanim would call out the ‘aseret hadiberot together with the shema’:

“Ribi Yehuda said in the name of Shemuel: They even wanted to call out the ‘aseret hadiberot by the borders, but this decree was nullified because of the claims of the heretics (Qaraim). Rashi explains that they were worried that the heretics will tell the ignoramus that the reason they call out only the ‘aseret hadiberot and the shema’ is because they only read out what Hashem told us from His “mouth” at Har Sinai, whilst the rest of the Torah is not true.”

Following this line of reasoning, Rambam zt”l[3] writes not to stand for the ‘aseret hadiberot because the heretics will claim, “we only attribute importance to these ten misvot as they are the only ones that are true; the rest of the Torah is not true,” has veshalom. E”H Hacham ‘Ovadia Yosef s”t[4] and e”H Hakham Yishaq Yosef s”t[5] share the opinion that we should not stand during the ‘aseret hadiberot as per Rambam’s response. Yemenite Jews, along with those of ‘Edot haMizrah (Middle Eastern communities), also do not have the minhag to stand during the reading of the ‘aseret hadiberot.[6] However, this minhag existed even before Rambam and the question is: Why did Rambam make such a decree against it? And why do the majority of Jews today continue to follow this minhag, which seemingly contradicts Rambam’s pesaq?

The reason we continue to follow this minhag, is because the heretics back then at the time of the Rambam were much different then the heretics of today because the heretics of today do not make any such claims.[7] Ribi Shalom Messas zt”l[8] is also of this opinion and explains further that whether we were to remain seated or we stood during the ‘aseret hadiberot it would not change the perception of the heretics; either way they would find ways to deny the Torah. Also, it is clear that since we continue to read the remainder of the Perasha – and not solely the ‘aseret hadiberot – there is no reason to worry about such claims.[9] Furthermore, Maran haHida zt”l[10] explains that since we make berachot before and after each ‘aliya laTorah – and not just the ‘aliya of the ‘aseret hadiberot – we have no worry that the heretics will make a claim that the rest of the Torah is untrue. However, Maran haHida zt”l[11] cautions us to stand from the beginning of the ‘aliya in order to show that we stand for other pesuqim as well. He also adds that it is very important that if the majority of the qahal (congregation) is standing, one should NOT sit, as this shows as if they are belittling the ‘aseret hadiberot, h“v. Nonetheless, Ribi Yishaq Hazan zt”l[12], Ribi Yossef Messas zt”l[13], and Ribi Refael Berdugo zt”l[14] all say that the common minhag is to stand only once we reach the ‘aseret hadiberot for we are not concerned about the claims of the heretics.

Summary: There are posqim, such as Rambam zt”l and e”H Hakham ‘Ovadia Yosef s”t, who prohibit standing during ‘aseret hadiberot for fear of the heretics’ claims. The majority of posqim are not concerned with these heretics’ claims for various reasons and thus permit standing. Each one should follow the minhag of the synagogue regarding which point to stand.

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Please send us any announcement you would like to make through our e-mail before Wednesday morning, if possible, unless there is a Yom Tob. Exceptions will be made for late entries

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