When Will It Be Enough? What Does It Take?

20 Sivan 5786

Erev Shabbat Kodesh

Parashat Sh'lach Lecha

Here we are again, coming round to the parashah that details the great sin for which Am Yisrael continues to do teshuvah, the one that brought grief to every Tisha b'Av for over 3300 years so far.

We have to face it.  It's not finished yet.  Let's review the Stone Edition Chumash Commentary...

The Spies' Report

When the spies came back after their extensive forty-day tour of the Land, they should have reported to Moses, who had sent them; instead they made their comments in a loud public declaration. In view of the account in Deuteronomy that the entire people demanded raucously of Moses that he send a spying expedition, it is understandable why the report was made in such a public manner: The people had demanded the mission and they felt entitled to hear the results.

On the surface, the spies did nothing wrong in describing what they had seen. They had been sent to make their own observations and they could not be faulted for reporting the truth as they saw it. Indeed, at this point in their report one sees nothing that should have caused their brethren to despair - yet the result was such a vociferous outcry against God and Moses, that Caleb had difficulty in having his defense of Moses accepted.

Ramban comments that the key word in their report that revealed them to be lacking in faith was the word "but" (ch. 13, v. 28).  In a purely factual report, there was no need for such a qualifier; they should have continued to state the facts. By using a word that implied a contradiction to the optimism of their first two sentences, they were, in effect, telling the nation that no matter how rich and blessed the Land was, it was beyond their reach. The inhabitants were too strong and their cities too impregnable. Ordinary human beings could not do battle with giants. Thus the spies were advising the nation not to even attempt an assault on Canaan. Then, compounding the frightening effect of their comments, they mentioned the dreaded Amalekites and the equally powerful nations that would never surrender their land easily. The very mention of Amalek was treacherous and was calculated to incite the people against Moses, because the land of Amalek was not even part of Eretz Yisrael, and the Amalekites would not have been a threat to a nation that was not crossing its borders.

We Cannot Ascend

Now, the spies said explicitly what they had only suggested before. Earlier, after the assembled people had gone back to their tents unsure whom to believe, the spies spread out among the people and spread malicious lies about the Land (v. 32), something they had not dared to do in the presence of Moses and Aaron, Caleb and Joshua. They claimed that the nature of the Land and its produce is such that it can be tolerated only by unusually huge and robust people; but ordinary people like the Israelites would not survive there (Ramban).

National Hysteria

The meraglim/spies had done their work well. The entire nation, even members of the Sanhedrin, the High Court, became convinced that the advance to Eretz Yisrael was doomed and that Moses had misled them by taking them out of Egypt. So convinced were they that they would be doomed if they ventured into Eretz Yisrael, that they wanted to replace Moses with a leader (ch. 14, v. 4) who would guide them back to the land of their enslavement. The Sages teach that this "leader" would have been an idol (Sanhedrin 107a), a telling indication that the sin of the spies involved a lack of faith in God.

The tragedy of their delusion had far-reaching consequences, for when the people wept that night, God declared, "They indulged in weeping without a cause; I will establish [this night] for them [as a time of] weeping throughout the generations." That night was Tisha b'Av [the Ninth of Av], the date when both Temples were destroyed and many other tragedies took place throughout Jewish history (Rashi to Psalms 106:27).

The Basis for the Spies' Error

The question remains how the spies - great men and leaders of the nation - could have sinned so grievously, especially when two of their number were telling the truth.

The Jewish people were about to enter a new type of existence. In the Wilderness they had been surrounded by miracles. Their food, their protection, the freshness of their clothing - everything had been miraculous. Upon their imminent entry into the Land, all of this would change. They would be required to live "natural" lives, to subsist through plowing, planting, commerce - and their new mission would be to live this way without ever forgetting that it is God's blessing, not the sweat of their brows, that assures success. Furthermore, the spies understood that Israel would have to conquer the Land through natural means. They erred in thinking that they would have to be strong enough to conquer and thrive in the Land without any help from God and concluded that they surely would be helpless against a race of giants, impregnable cities, and living conditions suited only to very hardy people.

The spies should have risen above these "logical" considerations and understood, as Caleb did, that if God wanted them to succeed, they would. It was because such doubts existed among the people that God chose such great men for the mission. If anyone, they would have the capacity to see the truth through the mists of mistaken logic. But the nation's lack of faith - as evidenced by their raucous insistence on sending the spies - had an effect on the spies themselves, resulting in the historic disaster (based on Maharal and Chiddushei HaRim).

Someday.  Someday soon, I hope.  We will have done enough to rectify it for all time. 

~ SHABBAT SHALOM ~

American Jews Lavish Praise and Honor on Our Worst Enemies

 19 Sivan 5786

Amb. Huckabee honored at Yeshiva University, delivers commencement speech to grads

US Ambassador Mike Huckabee delivered the commencement address at New York’s Yeshiva University on Thursday, where he was awarded the Presidential Medallion.

President Ari Berman opened the ceremony and invited Huckabee to the stage. Berman presented the US ambassador with the Presidential Medallion, the university’s highest honor for global leadership.

In his own address, Berman praised Huckabee for his dedication to the Jewish people and the State of Israel.

This is a man who has spent his entire life selling the idolatrous Gee-Zeus lie to the world and who lends his name and reputation to the most anti-Jewish missionary organization - One For Israel.

Ambassador Mike Huckabee Endorses Missionaries

In recent days he has both laid claim to Jewish heritage and expressed the opinion that Jews should be grateful to Chr*stians.

The Most Despicable Man in Israel

(Source:  "Exclusive Interview with Ambassador Mike Huckabee")

I'm sure there is even worse out there.  I don't follow him online so all I see is what people send to me and I don't get that much.  In my opinion, even without all of this, the spreading of the blood libel regarding the church that didn't burn, would have been enough to disqualify him as a "friend."

The real problem is that American Jews, even fully observant ones, have become so culturally assimilated that there is not that much difference between them and their Chr*stian "brothers".

"For This We Wait" (Part 2)

19 Sivan 5786

Back on September 11, 2022, the 15th of Elul 5782, I published The Final Tikkun: Revisiting the Golden Calf.  It was to be the last post for nearly a year.  There was nothing left for me to say.  Then, I resumed posting on July 10, 2023, the 21st of Tammuz 5783, with A Critical Message For Am Yisrael: How Are We to Fight An Enemy Who "Loves" Us?

Twenty posts later on August 3, 2023, the 16th day of Menachem Av, I published For This We Wait.

The subject was the Three Wars of GoguMagog.  Quoting...

I believe that HKB"H intends to mire the nations down in wars amongst themselves (WW3) while the Erev Rav regime fails (during the mass attack orchestrated by Iran), allowing Mashiach ben Yosef to arise and lead this third war of conquest.  Therefore, it is for this that we wait.  And it can begin at any moment.  The stage is set for the outbreak of this third war of conquest, which will see our surrounding (and internal) enemies defeated, the entire Land of Israel under our control, and the Temple Mount restored to our sovereignty, such that the building of the Third Temple can commence.

I believe that the wait ended 65 days later on Simchat Torah 5784.  We've been in the midst of fighting this final war until this moment.  I believe that the end of it, or at least a major transition of it, is imminent.  

We have reached the end of the road for the Zionist State.  It cannot, or will not, carry us through to the fulfillment of our Heaven-ordained destiny.  The Zionist Erev Rav regime is hell-bent on its war against the Torah and refuses to win the victory in this war for our existence.  It is afraid and without faith and trust in HKB"H and full of irrational hatred for everything holy.  

For This We Wait Now

Focus on the North 

• Drone and Rocket Attacks: The northern border and Galilee regions remain heavily active. Hezbollah frequently targets Israeli military positions in southern Lebanon and launches projectiles toward northern Israeli towns.
• Impacts: Projectile strikes and explosive drones have damaged homes, bus stops, and infrastructure, leading to the closure of schools near the Lebanon border.
• IDF Response: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continuously strike back within minutes of these launches, targeting rocket launchers and Hezbollah operatives.
• Casualties & Drone Strikes: Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) remain a significant threat. Recent attacks, including a deadly drone strike near the northern border and another in the north-central region, have claimed the lives of several soldiers and reservists.
• The continuous threat and casualties have prompted 'Herzog mourns IDF soldiers killed in northern campaign' addresses by state leaders and ongoing frustration among evacuated residents who demand enhanced security for the region.

Knesset Dissolved - No Government

Bill to dissolve Knesset passes first reading, advancing process to move up elections

The coalition’s bill to dissolve the Knesset passed its first reading in the plenum late on Monday night, with a large majority of 106 lawmakers in favor and none against, advancing the process of moving the election date up slightly from October 27.

The passage of the dissolution bill comes after a dispute between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition and the haredi (ultra-Orthodox) parties over the contentious draft bill.

The Knesset House Committee approved the dissolution bill for its first reading on Monday morning. No election date was set by the House Committee earlier in the day amid disagreements among lawmakers.

The coalition’s bill to dissolve the Knesset passed its preliminary reading last week on Wednesday, with a large majority of 110 lawmakers in favor and none against.

The bill must still pass a total of two more readings in the plenum to come into effect.

The late-night vote in the plenum came after a group of lawmakers returned from a recent trip to New York, where they had marched in the Israel Parade.

...The coalition’s submission of a bill for its own dissolution has been viewed as a way for the prime minister to control the pace and timing of the elections, as it grants the government greater control over the process.

 (From Yehudit's "Prophecy")

* The Erev Rav Gov't will deceive the nation and secretly weave dangerous deals.

* They will hand over holy places, including Yerushalayim, and this will cause a 'storm' in Am Israel.

* North of Israel will burn up from missiles from the Iranian Hizbulla, with the support of Syria.

* IDF (Israel Defense Force) reaction will be worthless.

* IDF will be very angry with the 'non-government'.

Moshiach ben Yosef will arrive to the North. In the beginning, he will not know that he was chosen to be the first savior. He will operate thru his qualifications and thru his love for Am Israel that is embedded in him. He is very pious and has helpers with him. Thru his holy bravery and courage, people of the North as well as others will slowly awaken and want to attach themselves to him and join him. There will be those that will oppose him, including religious Jews that follow the Torah and its commandments.

He will rule from the Galil, his headquarters will be in Tzfat or Teveria. Some Talmidei Chachamim will begin to recognize him as the savior of Bnei Israel and will join him. Others will only join him much later.

* He'll announce an emergency regime.

* He will announce an emergency economic and secure regime because Israel will be bankrupt due to bankruptcy in America.

* He will call upon the Arab states to stop striking the Jews and to recognize the sovereignty of Israel in all Yesha territory.

* He will make major changes in the army.

* Major portion of the high-ranking officers of the IDF army will transfer their loyalty to him.

* In respond to kassam and rockets on Northern Israel, he will give instructions to completely exterminate a city in Syria.

* Egypt and Jordan will declare a war against him.

* He will lead the new IDF and capture Jordan and half of Sinai.

* He will forcibly capture Yerushalayim.

He will announce that the government operating in Yerushalayim are criminals and will demand to judge them according to the laws of the Jewish Court. He'll put some politicians in prison, while other politicians will try to run away. There will also be politicians who will form a coalition to fight him, but he'll kill them.

THIS WAR CANNOT END WITH ANOTHER CEASEFIRE.  IT MUST BE WON OUTRIGHT AND ONLY MASHIACH BEN YOSEF CAN LEAD IT. 

Say "Bye-Bye" to America.  Say "Bye-Bye" to Trump.  Say "Bye-Bye" to the Erev Rav and the non-Jewish democratic State.  Say "Welcome Mashiach!!!"

REMINDER and UPDATE - Pride Event in Jerusalem Tomorrow

18 Sivan 5786

(FINAL UPDATE) Via Rabbi Richter: Protestors should meet in the grassy area of Gan Sacher at 6 pm across the street from the Yellow Gas Station located at the foot of Bezalel Street.  If confronted by anyone, say that you are attending a legal protest at the park.  They have a police permit for it. And keep in mind that all these surrounding streets are closing at 3:30 pm.  You'll have to walk.  B'hatzlacha rabah!!

(See also Jerusalem Municipality) legal

* * *

I always found it interesting that the Jerusalem Pride Parade began at Liberty Bell Park and passed by the American Orthodox Union (in Israel), The American Cultural Center, and the Democracy Institute before ending at Independence Park across the street from the American Embassy building.  The Museum for Tolerance is also in that area.

I can't help wondering if it was all by design or if there is just something about that area of the city that attracts the tumah. The connections to America are too obvious to ignore.

Now, we are hearing about a change in the route.  Again, the connections are too obvious to ignore - Sacher Park, the Knesset, the Rose Garden and the Supreme Court - ground zero for the Erev Rav!

New Jerusalem Pride March route heads towards Knesset under 'Demanding Change' slogan

The 24th Jerusalem March for Pride and Tolerance on Thursday will take a new route toward the Knesset, organizers announced on Tuesday.

The Jerusalem Open House for Pride and Tolerance said the march will call for changes in public discourse and legislation on behalf of Israel’s LGBTQ+ community.

The march, held under the slogan “Demanding Change,” will depart from Sacher Park and continue toward the Rose Garden, passing near the Supreme Court and Knesset area. Organizers said the route, approved in coordination with the Jerusalem District Police, is intended to underline that the demand for equality is not symbolic, but requires action by decision-makers.

March route and message

For the first time in about a decade, the Jerusalem march will not follow its traditional route, organizers said. Participants are expected to walk from Sacher Park through Rabin Road, the Supreme Court area, Yoel Sussman Street, and on to the Rose Garden.

The Jerusalem Open House said the march will focus on advancing full equality for the LGBTQ+ community, restoring a sense of security for all Israeli citizens, and promoting social and legislative change. The organization said the timing, during an election year, gives the march added civic significance.

Speakers and public figures

The closing rally at the Rose Garden will be hosted by Elad Bar-Noy and Avia Farhi, according to the organizers. Speakers are expected to include Jerusalem activist Nadav Schwartz, trans activist Nina Halevi, Jerusalem Open House chair Hadas Blomendal, and Association for Civil Rights in Israel executive director Noa Sattath.

Performers scheduled to appear include Gal De Paz, Hazeevot, Suzi Boom, and Rona Kenan at the opening stage in Sacher Park. Opposition leader Yair Lapid and MK Naama Lazimi have confirmed their attendance, while organizers said invitations were sent to all Knesset members.

Police preparations

About 2,000 Jerusalem District police officers, Border Police troops, undercover officers, reinforcements, and volunteers are expected to secure the march, organizers said. Police will be deployed along the route, at gathering points, and on nearby streets to maintain public order and direct traffic.

Road closures are expected to begin at 3:30 p.m. on Rabin, Ben-Zvi Boulevard, Bezalel, Ruppin, Kaplan, and Hanassi Hashishi streets, as well as nearby areas. Israel Police Commissioner Danny Levy recently met LGBTQ+ community representatives ahead of Pride Month and said police would act to prevent violence, incitement, and interference at Pride events, according to The Jerusalem Post.

While I have not heard of any plans for a counter-demonstration, it's probably safe to bet that something will be going on around the Strings Bridge.  It's a popular place for that kind of thing and also in close proximity this year.

Still hoping for a reprieve from Shamayim!!  😢

An "Influencer" Ahead of His Time

17 Sivan 5786

When I arrived on aliyah in Eretz Yisrael in 1996, it did not mark the end of my spiritual journey.  It was the proper beginning of it.  One of the most important elements of any life journey is the people you meet along the way who leave their own unique impression upon your soul.

Eretz Yisrael is home to many larger-than-life characters, some of whom I have been privileged to meet personally.  One such "character" was Avraham Herzlich.  I was privileged to hear his life's philosophy grounded in the wisdom of our holy Torah on the way to Kfar Tapuach sometime around 1998-99.  

And now, I have the great honor and privilege of passing that on to you, my readers, via an outstanding book entitled Letters to a Young Shepherd; Avraham Herzlich, Father of the Hilltop Youth which has been produced by my dear friend and ally - Aryeh Mordechai ben Moshe - and published by Third Temple Reality Publications.

When I received my copy, I was very excited at the prospect of a good read, but I delayed until Shabbat when I could give it all of the attention it deserved and it did not disappoint.  Letters to a Young Shepherd is a little jewel of a book whose impact is belied by its size (106 pages).  Its message is heartfelt and timeless as our people.  Everyone, regardless of age or stage of life, can enjoy and benefit from it.  

Don't miss this opportunity to further enrich your soul with the words and thoughts expressed by the acknowledged "father of the hilltop youth."  It will be well worth your investment. 

My enduring thanks to Aryeh Mordechai ben Moshe for making Avraham Herzlich's legacy available to the wider public.

The book costs 50 shekels from the author or 59 shekels from Pomeranz Bookseller in Jerusalem or online at Sifriat Am Yisrael (not including shipping).

Author: 054-641-4801, savethehilltopyouth@gmail.com, or directly from his Kfar Tapuach office.

Pomeranz Bookseller:  Be'eri St 5, Jerusalem,  Phone: 02-623-5559, https://www.pomeranzbooks.co.il/

Sifriat Am Yisrael: https://www.kodeshbook.co.il/product.asp?productid=14535

* * *

Meandering from Brooklyn to Samaria,
Avraham Herzlich shepherded a dynasty

UPDATE on Yonatan Razel's Condition

17 Sivan 5786

Please keep the prayers coming for Yonatan Adi ben Chayah Rachel.

  Report from Ricka Razel Van Leeuwen, Yonatan's sister...

Yonatan Razel's Brother Provides Update After His Sudden Stroke

...Aaron added that his brother is currently resting, eating, drinking, and even smiling. "The doctors are optimistic, but he now needs absolute rest to recover. We ask that everyone continue to pray for the complete recovery of Yonatan Adi ben Chaya Rachel. We can feel how much it helps!"

"ISRAEL'S NEW GOLDEN CALF? (Part 2)"

17 Sivan 5786

ISRAEL'S NEW GOLDEN CALF?  (Part 2)
RABBI RICHTER

 

Yonatan Razel CRITICAL!!

16 Sivan 5786

Yonatan Razel in Critical Condition After Sudden Stroke 

Beloved Israeli singer, composer, and musical arranger Yonatan Razel was rushed to Jerusalem's Shaare Zedek Medical Center this morning (Monday) after suffering a stroke, and is currently hospitalised in critical, life-threatening condition. He is 53 years old.

According to his publicist, the stroke itself occurred last week, but his condition deteriorated significantly this morning. Family members, gathered at his bedside, have urgently called on the public to pray for his recovery. "He needs many prayers — he is in danger of his life," they said.

His name for prayer is: Yonatan Adi ben Chaya Rachel.

 

(SOURCE)