By Rabbi Yishai Natan: 1. The Mitzvah of Kibbud Av Va'em In Parashat Toldot, we see how Esav went to great lengths to honor his father, Yitzhak. Even though Esav was a rasha, he was known for his exceptional Kibbud Av. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 65:16) relates that Rabban Shimon ben Gamliel said that although he honored his father throughout his life, his honor did … [Read more...]
Hayei Sarah – DO THE DEAD HEAR US?
Rabbi Yishai Natan: LISTEN TO THE FULL SHIUR Sarah's Burial and Kalev's Prayer In Parashat Chayei Sarah, the Torah describes the passing of Sarah Imenu and how Avraham Avinu purchased Me'arat HaMachpelah in Hevron to bury her. This cave would eventually become the burial place of the Avot and Imahot, and one of the most important places for Jewish prayer. Many … [Read more...]
Vayera – Hilchot Hachnasat Orhim
Rabbi Yishai Natan - In Parashat Vayera, we learn the great mitzvah of hachnasat orhim from Avraham Avinu. Our Sages tell us that Avraham had a tent with openings on all four sides, so travelers approaching from any direction could easily enter. He placed himself where travelers passed, looking for opportunities to invite them into his home. We also learn about this … [Read more...]
Lech Lecha – Saying Korbanot
Rabbi Yishai Natan - 1. Why Do We Say Korbanot? Gemara (Ta'anit 27b): In this week's parasha, Lech Lecha, Hashem promises Avraham Avinu that his descendants will inherit Eretz Yisrael. Avraham asks (Bereshit 15:8): במה אדע כי אירשנה — How will I know that I will inherit it? The Gemara explains that Avraham was concerned that the Jewish people might sin and be … [Read more...]
The Rainbow
Rabbi Yishai Natan - In Parashat Noah, after the great Flood destroyed nearly the entire world, Hashem promised Noah that He would never again destroy all living creatures through a worldwide flood. As a sign of this promise, Hashem declared, "אֶת קַשְׁתִּי נָתַתִּי בֶּעָנָן וְהָיְתָה לְאוֹת בְּרִית בֵּינִי וּבֵין הָאָרֶץ" — "I have placed My rainbow in the cloud, and it … [Read more...]