23 Adar II 5771
29 March 2011
For the Record
23 Adar II 5771
I am an Israeli citizen and not a citizen of any other country.
I have no Congressman to write to and wouldn't if I did.
I put no faith in America or American policy (or the Erev Rav Regime for that matter).
I do not look for or ask for or accept money (or "help" in any form) from chutz la'aretz.
I can't stand Sarah Palin.
I detest Glen Beck.
Not only do I not watch Fox News (no tv), I won't even visit their website.
I am in favor of the death penalty for missionaries, just as the Torah says.
I am in favor of genocide as it applies to Amalek and the "seven nations," just as the Torah says. (There's a difference between genocide against a people who never did any harm and genocide of a people who are sworn to wipe you out.)
If there is a choice between an IDF soldier and an Arab non-combatant civilian, the civilian should die.
I don't believe there can be real mercy without justice.
I hold Jews who are better xians than the xians in contempt.
I hold Jews who run after the goyim and seek their "support" and praise in disdain.
I pity the Jews who can not or will not make aliyah to Eretz Yisrael.
I don't believe that most people really want the Mashiach to come. And when he does, they are going to be majorly put out, if not downright antagonistic.
I want to believe Rabbi Ben Artzi. I'd like to think that all the Jews will make it and that Hashem is as mild-mannered as He comes across when the Rabbi speaks of Him. But I'm very doubtful. I'd like to be convinced.
Hashem help and save Your people!
I am an Israeli citizen and not a citizen of any other country.
I have no Congressman to write to and wouldn't if I did.
I put no faith in America or American policy (or the Erev Rav Regime for that matter).
I do not look for or ask for or accept money (or "help" in any form) from chutz la'aretz.
I can't stand Sarah Palin.
I detest Glen Beck.
Not only do I not watch Fox News (no tv), I won't even visit their website.
I am in favor of the death penalty for missionaries, just as the Torah says.
I am in favor of genocide as it applies to Amalek and the "seven nations," just as the Torah says. (There's a difference between genocide against a people who never did any harm and genocide of a people who are sworn to wipe you out.)
If there is a choice between an IDF soldier and an Arab non-combatant civilian, the civilian should die.
I don't believe there can be real mercy without justice.
I hold Jews who are better xians than the xians in contempt.
I hold Jews who run after the goyim and seek their "support" and praise in disdain.
I pity the Jews who can not or will not make aliyah to Eretz Yisrael.
I don't believe that most people really want the Mashiach to come. And when he does, they are going to be majorly put out, if not downright antagonistic.
I want to believe Rabbi Ben Artzi. I'd like to think that all the Jews will make it and that Hashem is as mild-mannered as He comes across when the Rabbi speaks of Him. But I'm very doubtful. I'd like to be convinced.
Hashem help and save Your people!
28 March 2011
Effects of Brainwashing
22 Adar II 5771
The following story demonstrates that a Jew's first instinct is normal and healthy and only becomes perverted after the brainwashing kicks in. As I used to say about my children, either they accept my brainwashing or someone else's brainwashing. We should all of us have our minds and our hearts truly washed by the One Above and His Holy Torah! ["And I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you will be clean; from all your impurities and from all your abominations will I cleanse you." Yechezkel 36.25]
Gaza Woman, Rocket Victim Share a Room
A woman from Kibbutz Saad who often has to run to shelter due to rockets fired by Gaza terrorists found herself sharing a hospital room this week with a woman from Gaza, who lives just a short distance away. The two were in Kaplan hospital after giving birth.
Naama Athu of Jabalia, Gaza, was transferred to Kaplan after suffering complications in late pregnancy that put her life and that of her unborn baby in danger. Doctors managed to save both Athu and her daughter, who was born in Rehovot.
Yael Frankel of Kibbutz Saad told Maariv, “At first I was in shock. You run away from rockets and then find out you're with someone who came from Gaza... In the end, she's a human being, and a baby is a baby. I'm glad they helped her here.”
The following story demonstrates that a Jew's first instinct is normal and healthy and only becomes perverted after the brainwashing kicks in. As I used to say about my children, either they accept my brainwashing or someone else's brainwashing. We should all of us have our minds and our hearts truly washed by the One Above and His Holy Torah! ["And I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you will be clean; from all your impurities and from all your abominations will I cleanse you." Yechezkel 36.25]
Gaza Woman, Rocket Victim Share a Room
A woman from Kibbutz Saad who often has to run to shelter due to rockets fired by Gaza terrorists found herself sharing a hospital room this week with a woman from Gaza, who lives just a short distance away. The two were in Kaplan hospital after giving birth.
Naama Athu of Jabalia, Gaza, was transferred to Kaplan after suffering complications in late pregnancy that put her life and that of her unborn baby in danger. Doctors managed to save both Athu and her daughter, who was born in Rehovot.
Yael Frankel of Kibbutz Saad told Maariv, “At first I was in shock. You run away from rockets and then find out you're with someone who came from Gaza... In the end, she's a human being, and a baby is a baby. I'm glad they helped her here.”
24 March 2011
NOT "Chelm"
18 Adar II 5771
The people of Chelm are fools. What the government, the courts and the police in Israel are complicit in is criminal.
The bomb blast in central Jerusalem was the work of terrorist pros
...DEBKAfile's counter-terror sources report that the [Jerusalem] attack was professionally executed by a team of three to five with local aid from East Jerusalem Palestinians. While the authorities have reassured the city that it was a one-off attack, intelligence and terror experts are certain a terrorist organization activated trained bombers and may do so again.
The 1-2 kilogram device planted in a suitcase was detonated at one of the busiest corners of Jerusalem, where taxis wait to pick up out-of-town arrivals and two buses take on passengers. The site of attack must have been picked in advance, with the bomber waiting in a getaway car nearby to detonate the device as one of the buses was pulling away and drive off to Arab Jerusalem or the West Bank before the police arrived. This method is familiar from the 2003-2006 Palestinian war of terror. The police initially set up road blocks on the highway to Tel Aviv before realizing too late that the bombers had headed east.
******
LEARN THE LESSONS!!!!
Bamidbar, Perek 33: "Speak to the children of Israel and say to them: When you cross the Jordan into the land of Canaan, you shall drive out all the inhabitants of the land from before you, destroy all their temples, destroy their molten idols, and demolish their high places. You shall clear out the Land and settle in it, for I have given you the Land to occupy it.
... But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the Land from before you, then those whom you leave over will be as spikes in your eyes and thorns in your sides, and they will harass you in the land in which you settle. And it will be that what I had intended to do to them, I will do to you. [i.e., drive us out of the Land.]
Shmuel I 15.17-23: "...Though you are small in your own eyes, you are the head of the tribes of Israel; and Hashem has anointed you to be king over Israel. Hashem sent you on the way, and He said, 'Go and destroy the sinners, the Amalekites, and wage war with them until you have exterminated them.' Why did you not obey the voice of Hashem? You rushed to the loot, and you did what was evil in the eyes of Hashem."
Shaul said to Shmuel, "But I heeded the voice of Hashem and I walked the path on which Hashem sent me! I brought Agag, king of Amalek, and I destroyed Amalek! The people took the sheep and the cattle from the loot, the best of what was to be destroyed, in order to bring offerings to Hashem, your God, in Gilgal."
And Meanwhile, the War Continues...
The people of Chelm are fools. What the government, the courts and the police in Israel are complicit in is criminal.
The bomb blast in central Jerusalem was the work of terrorist pros
...DEBKAfile's counter-terror sources report that the [Jerusalem] attack was professionally executed by a team of three to five with local aid from East Jerusalem Palestinians. While the authorities have reassured the city that it was a one-off attack, intelligence and terror experts are certain a terrorist organization activated trained bombers and may do so again.
The 1-2 kilogram device planted in a suitcase was detonated at one of the busiest corners of Jerusalem, where taxis wait to pick up out-of-town arrivals and two buses take on passengers. The site of attack must have been picked in advance, with the bomber waiting in a getaway car nearby to detonate the device as one of the buses was pulling away and drive off to Arab Jerusalem or the West Bank before the police arrived. This method is familiar from the 2003-2006 Palestinian war of terror. The police initially set up road blocks on the highway to Tel Aviv before realizing too late that the bombers had headed east.
LEARN THE LESSONS!!!!
Bamidbar, Perek 33: "Speak to the children of Israel and say to them: When you cross the Jordan into the land of Canaan, you shall drive out all the inhabitants of the land from before you, destroy all their temples, destroy their molten idols, and demolish their high places. You shall clear out the Land and settle in it, for I have given you the Land to occupy it.
... But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the Land from before you, then those whom you leave over will be as spikes in your eyes and thorns in your sides, and they will harass you in the land in which you settle. And it will be that what I had intended to do to them, I will do to you. [i.e., drive us out of the Land.]
Shmuel I 15.17-23: "...Though you are small in your own eyes, you are the head of the tribes of Israel; and Hashem has anointed you to be king over Israel. Hashem sent you on the way, and He said, 'Go and destroy the sinners, the Amalekites, and wage war with them until you have exterminated them.' Why did you not obey the voice of Hashem? You rushed to the loot, and you did what was evil in the eyes of Hashem."
Shaul said to Shmuel, "But I heeded the voice of Hashem and I walked the path on which Hashem sent me! I brought Agag, king of Amalek, and I destroyed Amalek! The people took the sheep and the cattle from the loot, the best of what was to be destroyed, in order to bring offerings to Hashem, your God, in Gilgal."
[Note that Shaul HaMelech had convinced himself that his 'improvements' on Hashem's direct orders were good and right, but Heaven did not see it that way. In fact, Heaven viewed it as much worse. From Heaven's perspective, the decision to preserve Agag and a few of the animals in order to 'honor' Hashem with sacrifices was tantamount to rebellion; equated with sorcery and idolatry, capital offenses deserving of the death penalty.]
Shmuel said, "Does Hashem take delight in elevation-offerings and feast-offerings as in obedience to the voice of Hashem? Behold! - obedience is better than a choice offering, attentiveness than the fat of rams. For rebelliousness is like the sin of sorcery, and verbosity is like the iniquity of idolatry; because you have rejected the word of God, He has rejected you as king!"
"But," you'll say. "What can we do? The government is against us."
For now, it is. But hear me well. The day is fast coming when there will be a new government in Eretz Israel - a Torah government led by Mashiach Tzidkeinu - and you have to be prepared to follow his orders. Use this time now to be convinced in your own mind and to convince others what is the correct course of action; what Hashem demands from us.
Today is the war for hearts and minds. Hashem is using these tragedies to prepare our hearts and minds for Tomorrow; for the Final War over the Land of Israel.
Use today to prepare well for tomorrow.
Xianity (the West) says "love your enemies" (and yet they go to war faster than anyone), while Judaism says "hate your enemies" because they are Hashem's enemies and He commands us to wipe them out. It is not an act of mercy and compassion to allow murderers free reign. It is a perversion and corruption of mercy and compassion which shows none at all to the victims!
You can not go from loving those who butcher infants in their sleep one day to slaughtering them in a war the next. Minds and hearts must be prepared in advance to execute justice and righteousness in the Land. Mashiach will declare a milchemet mitzvah (what you thought he was going to do it all by magic?) and every citizen is obligated in a milchemet mitzvah!
Keep the images of the massacred Fogel Family before you and nurture the will to do justice with their murderers, even if it is only to wish for the authorities to capture and punish them.
This would be a good time to go and review this post from 2008:
And Meanwhile, the War Continues...
David Melech chai v'kayam!
23 March 2011
We're Living in Chelm
18 Adar II 5771
Chelm: "One popular humorous tradition from Eastern Europe involved tales of the people of Chełm, a town reputed in these jokes to be inhabited by fools. The jokes were almost always centered on silly solutions to problems."
IDF on South's Pummeling: Pretend It's Not Happening
As rocket fire and mortar shells slam into Israel's southern communities at an increasing pace, the IDF insists Israelis should pretend there is no war.
The past few days have seen attacks on Be'er Sheva, Ashdod, Ashkelon and Gaza Belt communities, and several Israelis have been injured. Nonetheless, the commander of the IDF Home Front Command's Southern District, Col. Eitan Yitzchak, said on Wednesday that residents should continue their daily routines while paying close attention to the instructions and orders of the Home Front.
Col. Yitzhak emphasized that the Home Front Command would act to "maintain routine life" and determined that "we are not in a time of war." At this stage, the Home Front Command is not planning to open public shelters, because such a step would "convey war," he said.
"There has been increasing fire recently at the Gaza area communities that has reached Be'er Sheva, Ashdod and other southern communities," Col. Yitzhak acknowledged. "We are in an unstable period that requires special preparations on the home front in order to maintain routine life."
'J'lem terror attack doesn't represent a move backwards'Police Insp.-Gen. David Cohen said that the Israel Police and Jerusalem Police were as prepared for Wednesday's Jerusalem terror attack as they could be.
Cohen said that he did not believe that the attack represented a move backwards towards the years of terror attacks, but said that the Israel and Jerusalem Police are fully prepared for any situation.
DOWN WITH THE EREV RAV REGIME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
ARABS OUT OF ISRAEL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
22 March 2011
20 March 2011
Quick Notes
It could be that I won't be able to restrain myself from commenting since the world situation is currently so volatile, but I'll try to keep it short and will update this post as needed.
15 Adar II - 7:50pm: Just returned from megillah reading on this Shushan Purim 5771. There is a high wind, spitting rain drops. Too overcast to see the special "Supermoon," but we know it's up there.
Happy Shushan Purim to all of you living in walled cities!
14 Adar II - 9:10pm: (MSNBC)"BREAKING NEWS: U.S. has 3 submarines preparing for operations against Libya - official"
12 Adar II - 11:10am: A major war is about to erupt at this moment, davka at Purim! The West against Qadafi and Qadafi against Europe & the ME---"If the world has gone crazy, we'll be crazy too."
If you turn the word Libya into Hebrew letters, it spells 'G-d's heart' (לב-יה). If you rearrange the letters in the Hebrew name for it (לוב), you get (לבו), or his (His) heart. It could be possible that this thing comes from Hashem's deep desire. If so, then it should greatly advance the redemptive process.
Note: The gematria (38 / 3+8) reduces to 11. See Shirat Devorah on the significance of number 11.
15 Adar II - 7:50pm: Just returned from megillah reading on this Shushan Purim 5771. There is a high wind, spitting rain drops. Too overcast to see the special "Supermoon," but we know it's up there.
Happy Shushan Purim to all of you living in walled cities!
14 Adar II - 9:10pm: (MSNBC)"BREAKING NEWS: U.S. has 3 submarines preparing for operations against Libya - official"
12 Adar II - 11:10am: A major war is about to erupt at this moment, davka at Purim! The West against Qadafi and Qadafi against Europe & the ME---"If the world has gone crazy, we'll be crazy too."
If you turn the word Libya into Hebrew letters, it spells 'G-d's heart' (לב-יה). If you rearrange the letters in the Hebrew name for it (לוב), you get (לבו), or his (His) heart. It could be possible that this thing comes from Hashem's deep desire. If so, then it should greatly advance the redemptive process.
Note: The gematria (38 / 3+8) reduces to 11. See Shirat Devorah on the significance of number 11.
17 March 2011
People on the Move
11 Adar II 5771
Due to various disasters and catastrophes as well as political unrest in many nations, people are on the move.
Christchurch: where a strange silence lingersNormally a thriving city of just over 375,000 people, the centre of Christchurch is now eerily quiet. A strange silence has replaced the normal sounds of everyday life in the "red zone" - the area cordoned off by the authorities.
More foreigners leaving Japan as nuclear, quake disaster worries growTOKYO - Australia, Britain and Germany advised their citizens in Japan on Wednesday to consider leaving Tokyo and earthquake-affected areas, joining a growing number of governments and businesses telling their people it may be safer elsewhere.
'Biblical Exodus’ of Refugees From Africa Unrest Spurs Backlash in EuropeAs boats carrying hundreds of Africans set sail for a better life in Europe, they were met on Italy’s Lampedusa island with two words by a 5-foot, 8-inch blonde: go away.
“They cannot be allowed on the shore,” Marine Le Pen, the 42-year-old leader of France’s anti-immigration National Front, said in a March 15 interview in Rome after a three-hour visit the previous day to Lampedusa. “Send boats out to feed them. But they must not set foot on land.”
Due to various disasters and catastrophes as well as political unrest in many nations, people are on the move.
Christchurch: where a strange silence lingersNormally a thriving city of just over 375,000 people, the centre of Christchurch is now eerily quiet. A strange silence has replaced the normal sounds of everyday life in the "red zone" - the area cordoned off by the authorities.
More foreigners leaving Japan as nuclear, quake disaster worries growTOKYO - Australia, Britain and Germany advised their citizens in Japan on Wednesday to consider leaving Tokyo and earthquake-affected areas, joining a growing number of governments and businesses telling their people it may be safer elsewhere.
'Biblical Exodus’ of Refugees From Africa Unrest Spurs Backlash in EuropeAs boats carrying hundreds of Africans set sail for a better life in Europe, they were met on Italy’s Lampedusa island with two words by a 5-foot, 8-inch blonde: go away.
“They cannot be allowed on the shore,” Marine Le Pen, the 42-year-old leader of France’s anti-immigration National Front, said in a March 15 interview in Rome after a three-hour visit the previous day to Lampedusa. “Send boats out to feed them. But they must not set foot on land.”
16 March 2011
And it's NOT about SUSHI!
11 Adar II 5771
This is a brand new source for me. I will want to look further. Hat tip to my good friend AK for posting this on his Facebook page. It's a gem. And I'm so glad someone responded to that inane article on Ynet!!
Will the last one out of Japan...
...please turn out the lights.
(Current headlines on drudgereport.com)
ESCAPE FROM JAPAN: Private Jets in Demand as Exodus Grows...
Thousands Jam Airports; LUFTHANSA, KLM Cancel Flights...
Emperor in historic speech: Don't give up hope...
Setback in Fight to Control Reactors...
'We're Very Close Now to the Point of No Return'...
The Fukushima 50: Not afraid to die...
Radiation spews into sky -- again...
Wind to blow toward Ocean, America...
U.S. Surgeon General: Get iodide...
Radiation Monitoring Equipment In Overwhelming Demand...
French claim Japan is hiding full scale of nuclear disaster...
Newly Released Images Show Devastated Nuclear Reactors
(Current headlines on drudgereport.com)
ESCAPE FROM JAPAN: Private Jets in Demand as Exodus Grows...
Thousands Jam Airports; LUFTHANSA, KLM Cancel Flights...
Emperor in historic speech: Don't give up hope...
Setback in Fight to Control Reactors...
'We're Very Close Now to the Point of No Return'...
The Fukushima 50: Not afraid to die...
Radiation spews into sky -- again...
Wind to blow toward Ocean, America...
U.S. Surgeon General: Get iodide...
Radiation Monitoring Equipment In Overwhelming Demand...
French claim Japan is hiding full scale of nuclear disaster...
Newly Released Images Show Devastated Nuclear Reactors
Whose Apocalypse?
10 Adar II 5771
Armageddon Entrepreneurs: Who's Profiting From Fear?
A successful entrepreneur is someone who sees a problem as an opportunity. So who would dare capitalize on the impending end of the world? Call them Armageddon entrepreneurs: preachers who view today’s headlines as crib notes signaling the world is approaching its final days.
Armageddon Entrepreneurs: Who's Profiting From Fear?
A successful entrepreneur is someone who sees a problem as an opportunity. So who would dare capitalize on the impending end of the world? Call them Armageddon entrepreneurs: preachers who view today’s headlines as crib notes signaling the world is approaching its final days.
15 March 2011
While Everyone is Watching Japan's Nuclear Reactors...
10 Adar II 5771
And that's just the high points.
Compromised Security
9 Adar II 5771
A lot of blogs and facebook pages have been started to commemorate the holy Jewish family slaughtered in Itamar last Shabbat.
One of them, Bless Itamar, has been around for awhile, but it now has a new page dedicated to the "martyrs," on which the following observation is made:
"Itamar has suffered more than its share of tragedy at the hands of terrorism."
What I'm wondering is...doesn't anyone ever ask "why?" And if so, what were their conclusions?
I already offered my considered opinion in an earlier blogpost. I believe that by, not only allowing, but encouraging xians to visit and interact with Jews in Itamar, their spiritual security, and thereby, their physical security has been compromised.
I have done my pitiful best to warn those responsible, but to no avail.
Today, I am heartsick to see the continuing deep involvement of a Dominionist xian with the mayor of Itamar and his wife. They jointly run the Bless Itamar page where the new Fogel Family Condolence Guest Book resides and where visitors are now encouraged to leave a message of condolence to the family, and oh, if you'd like to make a donation as well, that would certainly be welcome.
Some of the comments make oblique references to Yeshu! G-d forbid!
Tani Zarelli, who is on record as having called on Jews to "repent" their "attacks" on xians, now writes the following on her facebook page:
"This has been very hard for me personally as Itamar and her people are like family to me. They opened their arms and home to this Gentile woman and have taught me so much. Now when tragedy hits like this senseless and barbaric act it touches me deep into the core of me. And if that is how it hits me, then how much more the surviving children, family and community. I can't wait to get there and hug them all with Hashems hug!"
One of her friends responds: "Dearest Tani - I hope you will have the opportunity to meet the grandmother (Ruth's mother). She has been interviewed a number of times and each time I am amazed.... she is the face of God."
And she answers: "I am looking forward to meeting the family when I come to Israel the end of the month."
This just curdles my stomach, the thought of these impure idolaters attaching themselves to holy Jews and being invited into holy Jewish homes. And the thought of this woman hugging the daughter or the grandmother, all the time with her Yeshu thoughts running through her head. Who do you think "Hashem" is to her??? Yes! It's Yeshu!
G-d forbid!
[NOTE: This is the last time I will write on this subject.]
A lot of blogs and facebook pages have been started to commemorate the holy Jewish family slaughtered in Itamar last Shabbat.
One of them, Bless Itamar, has been around for awhile, but it now has a new page dedicated to the "martyrs," on which the following observation is made:
"Itamar has suffered more than its share of tragedy at the hands of terrorism."
What I'm wondering is...doesn't anyone ever ask "why?" And if so, what were their conclusions?
I already offered my considered opinion in an earlier blogpost. I believe that by, not only allowing, but encouraging xians to visit and interact with Jews in Itamar, their spiritual security, and thereby, their physical security has been compromised.
I have done my pitiful best to warn those responsible, but to no avail.
Today, I am heartsick to see the continuing deep involvement of a Dominionist xian with the mayor of Itamar and his wife. They jointly run the Bless Itamar page where the new Fogel Family Condolence Guest Book resides and where visitors are now encouraged to leave a message of condolence to the family, and oh, if you'd like to make a donation as well, that would certainly be welcome.
Some of the comments make oblique references to Yeshu! G-d forbid!
Tani Zarelli, who is on record as having called on Jews to "repent" their "attacks" on xians, now writes the following on her facebook page:
"This has been very hard for me personally as Itamar and her people are like family to me. They opened their arms and home to this Gentile woman and have taught me so much. Now when tragedy hits like this senseless and barbaric act it touches me deep into the core of me. And if that is how it hits me, then how much more the surviving children, family and community. I can't wait to get there and hug them all with Hashems hug!"
One of her friends responds: "Dearest Tani - I hope you will have the opportunity to meet the grandmother (Ruth's mother). She has been interviewed a number of times and each time I am amazed.... she is the face of God."
And she answers: "I am looking forward to meeting the family when I come to Israel the end of the month."
This just curdles my stomach, the thought of these impure idolaters attaching themselves to holy Jews and being invited into holy Jewish homes. And the thought of this woman hugging the daughter or the grandmother, all the time with her Yeshu thoughts running through her head. Who do you think "Hashem" is to her??? Yes! It's Yeshu!
G-d forbid!
[NOTE: This is the last time I will write on this subject.]
14 March 2011
Day Four - Japan Update
Tide of 1,000 bodies overwhelms quake-hit Japan
TAKAJO, Japan – A tide of bodies washed up along Japan's coastline, crematoriums were overwhelmed and rescue workers ran out of body bags as the nation faced the grim reality of a mounting humanitarian, economic and nuclear crisis Monday after a calamitous tsunami.
Millions of people were facing a fourth night without water, food or heating in near-freezing temperatures in the northeast devastated by an earthquake and the wave it spawned. Meanwhile, a third reactor at a nuclear power plant lost its cooling capacity and the fuel rods at another were at least briefly fully exposed, raising fears of a meltdown. The stock market plunged over the likelihood of huge losses by Japanese industries including big names such as Toyota and Honda.
Rabbi Nir Ben Artzi said: "... People will see in the media hard things that the eye of man will not be able to tolerate."
Rabbi Ben Artzi's website is claiming that in his weekly shiur on Friday morning, 11 Mar '11, the rabbi was speaking about "a large earthquake happening in the world" at the very moment (7:45 am Israel / 2:45 Japan) that the earthquake in Japan occurred.
TAKAJO, Japan – A tide of bodies washed up along Japan's coastline, crematoriums were overwhelmed and rescue workers ran out of body bags as the nation faced the grim reality of a mounting humanitarian, economic and nuclear crisis Monday after a calamitous tsunami.
Millions of people were facing a fourth night without water, food or heating in near-freezing temperatures in the northeast devastated by an earthquake and the wave it spawned. Meanwhile, a third reactor at a nuclear power plant lost its cooling capacity and the fuel rods at another were at least briefly fully exposed, raising fears of a meltdown. The stock market plunged over the likelihood of huge losses by Japanese industries including big names such as Toyota and Honda.
Rabbi Nir Ben Artzi said: "... People will see in the media hard things that the eye of man will not be able to tolerate."
Rabbi Ben Artzi's website is claiming that in his weekly shiur on Friday morning, 11 Mar '11, the rabbi was speaking about "a large earthquake happening in the world" at the very moment (7:45 am Israel / 2:45 Japan) that the earthquake in Japan occurred.
Baruch Hashem!
8 Adar II 5771
Finally: Kinneret Tops Red Line
The level of the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret), Israel’s largest water source, topped the “red line” over the past few days, and now stands at 212.95 meters below sea level. It surpassed the government-mandated "red line" of -213 meters over the weekend as a result of the heavy rains of last week.
The Kinneret gained 28 centimeters, or nearly a foot, over the past week; it has picked up a total of 1.17 meters (over 46 inches) so far this winter.
Finally: Kinneret Tops Red Line
The level of the Sea of Galilee (Kinneret), Israel’s largest water source, topped the “red line” over the past few days, and now stands at 212.95 meters below sea level. It surpassed the government-mandated "red line" of -213 meters over the weekend as a result of the heavy rains of last week.
The Kinneret gained 28 centimeters, or nearly a foot, over the past week; it has picked up a total of 1.17 meters (over 46 inches) so far this winter.
Other News of Interest
8 Adar II 5771
Ehud Barak warns of a 'political' tsunami on the way to Israel.
"We are facing a political tsunami most of the public isn't unaware of," Defense Minister Ehud Barak said during a speech at the International Security Studies Institute in Tel Aviv on Sunday.
"There is an international movement which will recognize a Palestinian state on 1967 borders. It would be wrong to ignore this tsunami," Barak said. According to the defense minister, this is scheduled to happen before September.
"Israel's de-legitimization is in sight. It's very dangerous and requires action," Barak stated. He warned against an attempt to push Israel into the same corner South Africa once occupied.
"A political initiative will minimize the chances along the way. We have not tried to put all core issues on the table in the past two years. Israel must say it is ready to discuss security borders, refugees and Jerusalem and it will get a chance. If it fails, responsibility will be placed on the other side."
See also, Israel and Tsunamis: 13 in 2,500 Years
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An amazing story of hashgachah... Itamar attack: Chai family escapes murder
Ehud Barak warns of a 'political' tsunami on the way to Israel.
"We are facing a political tsunami most of the public isn't unaware of," Defense Minister Ehud Barak said during a speech at the International Security Studies Institute in Tel Aviv on Sunday.
"There is an international movement which will recognize a Palestinian state on 1967 borders. It would be wrong to ignore this tsunami," Barak said. According to the defense minister, this is scheduled to happen before September.
"Israel's de-legitimization is in sight. It's very dangerous and requires action," Barak stated. He warned against an attempt to push Israel into the same corner South Africa once occupied.
"A political initiative will minimize the chances along the way. We have not tried to put all core issues on the table in the past two years. Israel must say it is ready to discuss security borders, refugees and Jerusalem and it will get a chance. If it fails, responsibility will be placed on the other side."
See also, Israel and Tsunamis: 13 in 2,500 Years
An amazing story of hashgachah... Itamar attack: Chai family escapes murder
Japan to Return US 'Favor'?
8 Adar II 5771
Sixty-six years ago, the US irradiated Japan. Today, however unwittingly, Japan may be about to return the 'favor.'
Japan earthqauke: Threat of meltdowns at four nuclear power plants
After an explosion on Saturday and reports of partial nuclear meltdowns at the Fukishima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant and the nearby Fukushima No.2 plant, authorities today reported emergencies at two more nuclear facilities.
At the Tokai No. 2 nuclear power plant, which is only 120km north of Tokyo, the cooling pump stopped working, while at the Onagawa nuclear power plant, in the Miyagi Prefecture, a state of emergency was declared because of excessive radiation levels.
The incidents underlined the precipitous situation at the country's nuclear plants and particularly at the crippled Fukishima facility, where government officials admitted they feared meltdowns occurred within three of the site's reactors at the No. 1 plant and confirmed that radiation had leaked out.
JAPAN EARTHQUAKE - 'THE RADIOACTIVE WAVE IS SPREADING, WE ARE IN THE LAPS OF THE GODS'
...When Ukraine’s Chernobyl power plant went into meltdown 25 years ago, vast areas of Europe were coated in radioactive dust, putting farms out of business and leaving millions fearing long-term health issues. Even British farms felt the effects of the radioactive particles.
...Yesterday’s winds were blowing away from Japan’s most heavily populated areas but contaminated dust could be swept by the high-altitude jet stream across the Pacific towards the United States.
There are fears that billions of dollars worth of crops will have to be destroyed if a “poison cloud” hits America’s West Coast. The jet stream could carry any contamination into the prairie wheat fields that cover more than 50 million acres.
******
A former adviser on radiation to the UK government, Dr Christopher Busby, has told the BBC the situation at the nuclear plants is extremely serious. "Particularly concerning is the [Fukushima] number three reactor which I understand is in trouble now, because... it runs on a different sort of fuel; it doesn't run on uranium, it runs on a mixed uranium plutonium fuel, and plutonium is an extremely serious hazard so if this stuff comes out then it's going to make what's happened so far, in terms of the tsunami damage, look a little bit like an entrée to the real course."
(H/T Global Disaster Watch)
******
The economic fallout (pun intended) from this triple disaster?
Japan stocks plunge on 1st trading day after quake
Sixty-six years ago, the US irradiated Japan. Today, however unwittingly, Japan may be about to return the 'favor.'
Japan earthqauke: Threat of meltdowns at four nuclear power plants
After an explosion on Saturday and reports of partial nuclear meltdowns at the Fukishima No. 1 Nuclear Power Plant and the nearby Fukushima No.2 plant, authorities today reported emergencies at two more nuclear facilities.
At the Tokai No. 2 nuclear power plant, which is only 120km north of Tokyo, the cooling pump stopped working, while at the Onagawa nuclear power plant, in the Miyagi Prefecture, a state of emergency was declared because of excessive radiation levels.
The incidents underlined the precipitous situation at the country's nuclear plants and particularly at the crippled Fukishima facility, where government officials admitted they feared meltdowns occurred within three of the site's reactors at the No. 1 plant and confirmed that radiation had leaked out.
JAPAN EARTHQUAKE - 'THE RADIOACTIVE WAVE IS SPREADING, WE ARE IN THE LAPS OF THE GODS'
...When Ukraine’s Chernobyl power plant went into meltdown 25 years ago, vast areas of Europe were coated in radioactive dust, putting farms out of business and leaving millions fearing long-term health issues. Even British farms felt the effects of the radioactive particles.
...Yesterday’s winds were blowing away from Japan’s most heavily populated areas but contaminated dust could be swept by the high-altitude jet stream across the Pacific towards the United States.
There are fears that billions of dollars worth of crops will have to be destroyed if a “poison cloud” hits America’s West Coast. The jet stream could carry any contamination into the prairie wheat fields that cover more than 50 million acres.
A former adviser on radiation to the UK government, Dr Christopher Busby, has told the BBC the situation at the nuclear plants is extremely serious. "Particularly concerning is the [Fukushima] number three reactor which I understand is in trouble now, because... it runs on a different sort of fuel; it doesn't run on uranium, it runs on a mixed uranium plutonium fuel, and plutonium is an extremely serious hazard so if this stuff comes out then it's going to make what's happened so far, in terms of the tsunami damage, look a little bit like an entrée to the real course."
(H/T Global Disaster Watch)
The economic fallout (pun intended) from this triple disaster?
Japan stocks plunge on 1st trading day after quake
13 March 2011
If I were PM for a day
8 Adar II 5771
Do you know what I would do in response to an atrocity like what happened in Itamar, if I were Prime Minister for a day?
Build a thousand new apartments?
Nope.
Start a campaign to generate public sympathy? Show the whole world just how wicked the Arabs are!
Nope.
There is only one correct and normal response. I'd turn the village from which the murderers came into a mass grave.
Do you know what I would do in response to an atrocity like what happened in Itamar, if I were Prime Minister for a day?
Build a thousand new apartments?
Nope.
Start a campaign to generate public sympathy? Show the whole world just how wicked the Arabs are!
Nope.
There is only one correct and normal response. I'd turn the village from which the murderers came into a mass grave.
"In its time, I will hasten it"
Earth's day length shortened by Japan earthquakeScientists say impact of massive quake has forced Earth to rotate faster
"Super Moon"
7 Adar II 5771
Have you heard about it yet?
Extreme Super (Full) Moon to Cause Chaos?
Coming up later this month (March 19 to be exact) the moon will make its closest approach to Earth (called lunar perigee) in 18 years. A new or full moon at 90% or greater of its closest perigee to Earth has been named a "SuperMoon" by astrologer Richard Nolle. This term has been recently picked up by astronomers. An extreme "SuperMoon" is when the moon is full or new as well as at its 100% greater mean perigee (closest) distance to earth. By this definition, last month's full moon, this month's and next month's will all be extreme "Super Moons".
That's Adar I (Purim Katan), Adar II (Purim) and Nisan (Pesach)!
Some people think it will cause an increase in earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tidal surges. "Experts" say no. Whatever it portends for the physical world, we know from our tradition that, spiritually, the moon represents Yisrael and when it is full, we are at the height of our spiritual power. The connection to Purim is not coincidental. It is said that on Purim, we are at our best because the mitzvot of Purim: giving the substitute for machzit hasheqel, mishloach manot, ma'atonot l'evyonim and sharing the Purim seuda foster achdut among Am Yisrael like no other holiday. And when we are united, no power on earth can succeed against us.
Keep this in mind when you look up at the full moon this Purim and Pesach.
Have you heard about it yet?
Extreme Super (Full) Moon to Cause Chaos?
Coming up later this month (March 19 to be exact) the moon will make its closest approach to Earth (called lunar perigee) in 18 years. A new or full moon at 90% or greater of its closest perigee to Earth has been named a "SuperMoon" by astrologer Richard Nolle. This term has been recently picked up by astronomers. An extreme "SuperMoon" is when the moon is full or new as well as at its 100% greater mean perigee (closest) distance to earth. By this definition, last month's full moon, this month's and next month's will all be extreme "Super Moons".
That's Adar I (Purim Katan), Adar II (Purim) and Nisan (Pesach)!
Some people think it will cause an increase in earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tidal surges. "Experts" say no. Whatever it portends for the physical world, we know from our tradition that, spiritually, the moon represents Yisrael and when it is full, we are at the height of our spiritual power. The connection to Purim is not coincidental. It is said that on Purim, we are at our best because the mitzvot of Purim: giving the substitute for machzit hasheqel, mishloach manot, ma'atonot l'evyonim and sharing the Purim seuda foster achdut among Am Yisrael like no other holiday. And when we are united, no power on earth can succeed against us.
Keep this in mind when you look up at the full moon this Purim and Pesach.
Understanding the Tragedy in Itamar
7 Adar II 5771
I read how the bloodthirsty murderers slit the infant's throat and stabbed the toddler through the heart and I cried and cried and cried, from the depths of my soul. Hashem! Have mercy on your children!! But this is not the first time that I have cried for Itamar. And it is not the first time that the community's security has been breached with tragic consequences.
I do not presume to know why this particularly family, but I've known and warned for a long time that Itamar has a security issue.
On 17 Aug '09, I wrote: "I read 'Unfaithful men have gone forth from among you and have led the inhabitants of their city astray, ...' along with the description of that city's ultimate destruction and I shake to the core of my being. Now, of all times, while the threat of destruction hovers over every Jewish town and village in Judea and Samaria, this issue must be confronted.
'Unfaithful men'---men who place their trust in idol-worshippers rather than in the God of Israel are bringing sure and swift destruction upon their families, neighbors, friends and upon the whole House of Israel."
On 24 Jan '10, I wrote: "I continue to be upset and frustrated at the lack of interest shown by those whom I have tried to inform of the missionary infiltration into the yishuvim, particularly in the Shomron. IF ANYONE HAS ANY INFLUENCE WITH THE RABBIS IN THE SHOMRON, PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THIS VITAL ISSUE!!"
On 29 Aug '10, I wrote: "...who's gonna protect the kids if the parents, neighbors and rabbis won't?"
On 1 Sep '10, I wrote: "There is something seriously, spiritually flawed in anyone who claims to be an 'Orthodox' Jew and a rabbi to boot and they visit churches, eat and sleep in the homes of idolaters, allow their children to be in email contact with idolaters...
Lest you think this is lashon hara, it is! But it is the lashon hara that is required in order to warn other Jews that they are in mortal danger.
I call on the Itamar community to depose this mayor from his position...."[Note: He was very recently re-elected.]
On 14 Feb '11, I wrote: "...She's been busy bringing Christians and Jews together for at least the last twelve years. Anyway that's when I first spoke to her about the damage she was likely to cause Klal Yisrael with her activities."
Two weeks ago on Motzaei Shabbat, Hashem sent a qualified shaliach to Itamar who spoke with their rabbi's blessing about this issue. I do not know what the response was, but no one can say he was not warned.
The news says Security Failures Led To Murder of Fogel Family," but, in truth, it is their spiritual security that was breached and this in turn led to the physical breakdown of the security apparatus.
Hashem promises to be our protective wall if we will but listen and obey!!! AM YISRAEL, for this you must do teshuva before it happens again!
Ten years ago, I almost went to live in Itamar. I was approved by the acceptance committee, but I could not give up the dream of Yerushalayim. Itamar is a beautiful yishuv full of beautiful Jews. I only want to protect them.
I read how the bloodthirsty murderers slit the infant's throat and stabbed the toddler through the heart and I cried and cried and cried, from the depths of my soul. Hashem! Have mercy on your children!! But this is not the first time that I have cried for Itamar. And it is not the first time that the community's security has been breached with tragic consequences.
I do not presume to know why this particularly family, but I've known and warned for a long time that Itamar has a security issue.
On 17 Aug '09, I wrote: "I read 'Unfaithful men have gone forth from among you and have led the inhabitants of their city astray, ...' along with the description of that city's ultimate destruction and I shake to the core of my being. Now, of all times, while the threat of destruction hovers over every Jewish town and village in Judea and Samaria, this issue must be confronted.
'Unfaithful men'---men who place their trust in idol-worshippers rather than in the God of Israel are bringing sure and swift destruction upon their families, neighbors, friends and upon the whole House of Israel."
On 24 Jan '10, I wrote: "I continue to be upset and frustrated at the lack of interest shown by those whom I have tried to inform of the missionary infiltration into the yishuvim, particularly in the Shomron. IF ANYONE HAS ANY INFLUENCE WITH THE RABBIS IN THE SHOMRON, PLEASE MAKE THEM AWARE OF THIS VITAL ISSUE!!"
On 29 Aug '10, I wrote: "...who's gonna protect the kids if the parents, neighbors and rabbis won't?"
On 1 Sep '10, I wrote: "There is something seriously, spiritually flawed in anyone who claims to be an 'Orthodox' Jew and a rabbi to boot and they visit churches, eat and sleep in the homes of idolaters, allow their children to be in email contact with idolaters...
Lest you think this is lashon hara, it is! But it is the lashon hara that is required in order to warn other Jews that they are in mortal danger.
I call on the Itamar community to depose this mayor from his position...."[Note: He was very recently re-elected.]
On 14 Feb '11, I wrote: "...She's been busy bringing Christians and Jews together for at least the last twelve years. Anyway that's when I first spoke to her about the damage she was likely to cause Klal Yisrael with her activities."
Two weeks ago on Motzaei Shabbat, Hashem sent a qualified shaliach to Itamar who spoke with their rabbi's blessing about this issue. I do not know what the response was, but no one can say he was not warned.
The news says Security Failures Led To Murder of Fogel Family," but, in truth, it is their spiritual security that was breached and this in turn led to the physical breakdown of the security apparatus.
Hashem promises to be our protective wall if we will but listen and obey!!! AM YISRAEL, for this you must do teshuva before it happens again!
Ten years ago, I almost went to live in Itamar. I was approved by the acceptance committee, but I could not give up the dream of Yerushalayim. Itamar is a beautiful yishuv full of beautiful Jews. I only want to protect them.
12 March 2011
More floods...
7 Adar II 5771
Hundreds flee as rivers swell from Md. to Maine
Forecasters warn the worst is yet to come for some areas
Anxious officials from Maryland to Maine were closely monitoring swollen rivers and other waterways that were expected to overflow their banks early Saturday, causing more hardships for communities where major flooding forced hundreds of people from their homes.
Forecasters warned that the worst was yet to come for many areas, especially parts of flood-prone northern New Jersey that were already under water after a storm that dropped as much as 5 inches of rain in some areas from Thursday afternoon through Friday morning. That came just days after most of the same areas — which are emerging from a snow-filled winter — were flooded by another round of heavy rains.
No end in sight for drenched north Queensland
TWO Queensland towns are isolated, homes inundated and food supplies dwindling after days of torrential rain in the area dubbed "ground zero" for Cyclone Yasi.
The Cassowary Coast has been pounded by a massive monsoon for the past five days and it's not expected to let up for the next few days.
Tsunami slams U.S. with 8-foot waves
The Coast Guard was searching for a man who was swept out to sea near Crescent City, a town of 7,500 people 20 miles south of the Oregon border. The man had been taking photographs with two friends at the mouth of the Klamath River when they were pulled out by the surge. The two friends were able to swim to safety.
California Gov. Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency in four counties, saying "the water surge is causing conditions of extreme peril to the infrastructure and the safety of the persons and properties within the counties of Del Norte, Humboldt, San Mateo and Santa Cruz."
..."We could hear the ocean howling — you could hear how angry it was," said Karen Barkhurst, who lives several miles north of Crescent City. "We stayed up all night and we were ready to evacuate."
...The tsunami hit Hawaii before dawn Friday, with most damage coming on the Big Island. The waves covered beachfront roads and rushed into hotels. One house was picked up and carried out to sea. Low-lying areas in Maui were flooded by 7-foot waves.
More 'quake news...
Tsunami warning center raises magnitude of Japan quake to 9.1
Indonesia volcano erupts just hours after massive quake in Japan
Quake moved Japan coast 8 feet; shifted Earth's axis
(CNN) -- The powerful earthquake that unleashed a devastating tsunami Friday appears to have moved the main island of Japan by 8 feet (2.4 meters) and shifted the Earth on its axis.
"At this point, we know that one GPS station moved (8 feet), and we have seen a map from GSI (Geospatial Information Authority) in Japan showing the pattern of shift over a large area is consistent with about that much shift of the land mass," said Kenneth Hudnut, a geophysicist with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Reports from the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology in Italy estimated the 8.9-magnitude quake shifted the planet on its axis by nearly 4 inches (10 centimeters).
127,100 people evacuated after southwest China's earthquake
BEIJING, March 12 (Xinhua) -- About 127,100 residents have been evacuated to safety after a 5.8-magnitude earthquake hit Yingjiang County in southwest China's Yunnan Province Thursday, the Ministry of Civil Affairs said Saturday.
As of 10 p.m. Friday, the earthquake has left 25 people dead and more than 250 others injured including 134 seriously, the ministry said in a report.
Hundreds flee as rivers swell from Md. to Maine
Forecasters warn the worst is yet to come for some areas
Anxious officials from Maryland to Maine were closely monitoring swollen rivers and other waterways that were expected to overflow their banks early Saturday, causing more hardships for communities where major flooding forced hundreds of people from their homes.
Forecasters warned that the worst was yet to come for many areas, especially parts of flood-prone northern New Jersey that were already under water after a storm that dropped as much as 5 inches of rain in some areas from Thursday afternoon through Friday morning. That came just days after most of the same areas — which are emerging from a snow-filled winter — were flooded by another round of heavy rains.
No end in sight for drenched north Queensland
TWO Queensland towns are isolated, homes inundated and food supplies dwindling after days of torrential rain in the area dubbed "ground zero" for Cyclone Yasi.
The Cassowary Coast has been pounded by a massive monsoon for the past five days and it's not expected to let up for the next few days.
Tsunami slams U.S. with 8-foot waves
The Coast Guard was searching for a man who was swept out to sea near Crescent City, a town of 7,500 people 20 miles south of the Oregon border. The man had been taking photographs with two friends at the mouth of the Klamath River when they were pulled out by the surge. The two friends were able to swim to safety.
California Gov. Jerry Brown declared a state of emergency in four counties, saying "the water surge is causing conditions of extreme peril to the infrastructure and the safety of the persons and properties within the counties of Del Norte, Humboldt, San Mateo and Santa Cruz."
..."We could hear the ocean howling — you could hear how angry it was," said Karen Barkhurst, who lives several miles north of Crescent City. "We stayed up all night and we were ready to evacuate."
...The tsunami hit Hawaii before dawn Friday, with most damage coming on the Big Island. The waves covered beachfront roads and rushed into hotels. One house was picked up and carried out to sea. Low-lying areas in Maui were flooded by 7-foot waves.
More 'quake news...
Tsunami warning center raises magnitude of Japan quake to 9.1
Indonesia volcano erupts just hours after massive quake in Japan
Quake moved Japan coast 8 feet; shifted Earth's axis
(CNN) -- The powerful earthquake that unleashed a devastating tsunami Friday appears to have moved the main island of Japan by 8 feet (2.4 meters) and shifted the Earth on its axis.
"At this point, we know that one GPS station moved (8 feet), and we have seen a map from GSI (Geospatial Information Authority) in Japan showing the pattern of shift over a large area is consistent with about that much shift of the land mass," said Kenneth Hudnut, a geophysicist with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Reports from the National Institute of Geophysics and Volcanology in Italy estimated the 8.9-magnitude quake shifted the planet on its axis by nearly 4 inches (10 centimeters).
127,100 people evacuated after southwest China's earthquake
BEIJING, March 12 (Xinhua) -- About 127,100 residents have been evacuated to safety after a 5.8-magnitude earthquake hit Yingjiang County in southwest China's Yunnan Province Thursday, the Ministry of Civil Affairs said Saturday.
As of 10 p.m. Friday, the earthquake has left 25 people dead and more than 250 others injured including 134 seriously, the ministry said in a report.
11 March 2011
Tsunami Update
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii has widened its tsunami warning to include most of the Pacific Ocean region, including South America. The warning issued Thursday at 0730 GMT follows a massive 8.9 earthquake that has struck off the northeastern coast of Japan. It includes Russia, the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific coast of South America, including Mexico, Chile and Peru.
In Guam, authorities are urging those residing along coastlines to seek high ground after a tsunami warning was issued for the U.S. territory. The agency says that people are advised to evacuate low areas and seek ground higher than 50 feet above sea level and 100 feet inland. The agency says the tsunami is expected to hit in about 14 hours or 7 a.m. Saturday. The U.S. territory of the Northern Marians Islands was also under the warning.
In Guam, authorities are urging those residing along coastlines to seek high ground after a tsunami warning was issued for the U.S. territory. The agency says that people are advised to evacuate low areas and seek ground higher than 50 feet above sea level and 100 feet inland. The agency says the tsunami is expected to hit in about 14 hours or 7 a.m. Saturday. The U.S. territory of the Northern Marians Islands was also under the warning.
******
FYI...
A shockwave from an X-Class flare hit the earth during a 24 hour window of when Japan was hit by the quake. There have been connections to heightened solar activity being one of the many possible triggers of earthquakes. One meteorologist has studied geomagnetic field patterns in space weather since the early 2000s. "I may just be a weather guy, but solar weather has had my interest for years when I noticed the connection. Many past quakes have been connected with solar flare events, including other events such as Gamma Ray Bursts, or GRBs. I am pretty certain these have connections to triggering earthquakes, however I do not yet understand it. Japan's activity may not have happened if it was not for the solar flare activity. Others in weather laughed at me for years for what I worked on in quake triggers, however this just may help put that to rest". (NOAA tsunami graphic showing the travel times from the epicenter of the quake)
"Devastating"
5 Adar II 5771
8.9-magnitude quake triggers devastating Japan tsunami; At least 5 deaths confirmed; homes, cars, buildings swept away by waves
TOKYO — A magnitude 8.9 earthquake slammed Japan's northeastern coast Friday, unleashing a 13-foot tsunami that swept boats, cars, buildings and tons of debris miles inland. Fires triggered by the quake burned out of control up and down the coast.
...A tsunami warning was also issued for Hawaii and the coasts of Oregon, California, Washington and parts of Alaska.
"A tsunami has been generated that could cause damage along the coastlines of all islands in the state of Hawaii," the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center's bulletin said. "Urgent action should be taken to protect lives and property."
...Thirty minutes after the quake, tall buildings were still swaying in Tokyo and mobile phone networks were not working.
The tsunami roared over embankments in Sendai city, washing cars, houses and farm equipment inland before reversing directions and carrying them out to sea. Flames shot from some of the houses, probably because of burst gas pipes.
Water that moves 'as fast as a jet engine'
8.9-magnitude quake triggers devastating Japan tsunami; At least 5 deaths confirmed; homes, cars, buildings swept away by waves
TOKYO — A magnitude 8.9 earthquake slammed Japan's northeastern coast Friday, unleashing a 13-foot tsunami that swept boats, cars, buildings and tons of debris miles inland. Fires triggered by the quake burned out of control up and down the coast.
...A tsunami warning was also issued for Hawaii and the coasts of Oregon, California, Washington and parts of Alaska.
"A tsunami has been generated that could cause damage along the coastlines of all islands in the state of Hawaii," the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center's bulletin said. "Urgent action should be taken to protect lives and property."
...Thirty minutes after the quake, tall buildings were still swaying in Tokyo and mobile phone networks were not working.
The tsunami roared over embankments in Sendai city, washing cars, houses and farm equipment inland before reversing directions and carrying them out to sea. Flames shot from some of the houses, probably because of burst gas pipes.
Water that moves 'as fast as a jet engine'
10 March 2011
N Korea is not out of the picture yet
5 Adar II 5771
North Korea Nears Completion of Electromagnetic Pulse Bomb
North Korea appears to be protesting the joint U.S. and South Korean military maneuvers by jamming Global Positioning Devices in the south, which is a nuisance for cell phone and computers users -- but is a hint of the looming menace for the military.
...The jamming, however, has raised questions about whether the Korean peninsula is bracing for new electronic warfare.
The North is believed to be nearing completion of an electromagnetic pulse bomb that, if exploded 25 miles above ground would cause irreversible damage to electrical and electronic devices such as mobile phones, computers, radio and radar, experts say.
...Major Korean newspaper editorials today called the recent jamming a "wake-up call," pointing out that consequences could be severe if North Korea succeeds in discharging full-fledged electromagnetic waves.
On top of disrupting major communication tools used by both civilians and the military, the waves would affect financial transactions and civilian airplanes dependent on radio signals.
"The problem could be further exacerbated by the fact that our military equipment increasingly relies on commercial GPS standards," wrote JoongAng Daily, one of South Korea's largest newspapers.
This is the second time North Korea has sought to interfere with military communications. Pyongyang is thought to have been behind a failure of GPS receivers on some naval and civilian aircraft during another joint military exercise in August....
(H/T to my long-time friend AK)
North Korea Nears Completion of Electromagnetic Pulse Bomb
North Korea appears to be protesting the joint U.S. and South Korean military maneuvers by jamming Global Positioning Devices in the south, which is a nuisance for cell phone and computers users -- but is a hint of the looming menace for the military.
...The jamming, however, has raised questions about whether the Korean peninsula is bracing for new electronic warfare.
The North is believed to be nearing completion of an electromagnetic pulse bomb that, if exploded 25 miles above ground would cause irreversible damage to electrical and electronic devices such as mobile phones, computers, radio and radar, experts say.
...Major Korean newspaper editorials today called the recent jamming a "wake-up call," pointing out that consequences could be severe if North Korea succeeds in discharging full-fledged electromagnetic waves.
On top of disrupting major communication tools used by both civilians and the military, the waves would affect financial transactions and civilian airplanes dependent on radio signals.
"The problem could be further exacerbated by the fact that our military equipment increasingly relies on commercial GPS standards," wrote JoongAng Daily, one of South Korea's largest newspapers.
This is the second time North Korea has sought to interfere with military communications. Pyongyang is thought to have been behind a failure of GPS receivers on some naval and civilian aircraft during another joint military exercise in August....
(H/T to my long-time friend AK)
Taking Sides
4 Adar II 5771
Dear Readers,
I don't know about you, but I was raised in a culture that encouraged me not to take sides. After all, the argument goes, who's really to say who is right and who is wrong? Instead, you are supposed to acknowledge that everyone has his own truth and you are to accommodate each person as best as you can within the bounds of whatever you decide is your truth.
That is not the Torah way. Despite what some people want you to believe, there is such a thing as absolute truth. The Torah is about right and wrong, good and evil. It admonishes us to choose life over death, blessing over curse. In the beginning, Hashem separated the light from the darkness and the earth from the water. Everything was clear and ordered. The mixing and muddying and confusion that we experience daily is the result of Adam and Chava's sin. When they ate from the forbidden Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, they internalized evil, mixing good and evil within themselves, making it difficult to distinguish the voice of the yetzer hara from that of the yetzer hatov.
We correct their sin a little bit every time we make a separation and restore the order that forms the basis of the Creator's work. Furthermore, taking sides is the essence of Moshe Rabeinu's call, "Mi l'Hashem alai," which was repeated by Eliyahu HaNavi and by Matityahu HaCohen HaGadol HaChashmonai.
Today, while the world at large is fighting tooth and nail to break down every barrier of division and to mix all peoples and philosophies and religions into one miasmic amalgam, the task of our generation is to make havdalah---separate and distinguish between Truth and Lie---and the battlefield is the hearts and minds of humanity.
Today, we---each one of us---must take a side. Of course, every right-minded person wants to choose truth, but hear this! It must be Truth without any mixture of lie. To the extent that we are still connected to the lies of this present reality, this will determine our chances for surviving into Days of Mashiach.
"MESSAGE TO THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL IN THE LAND AND ACROSS THE WORLD, from the mouth of HaRav Nir Ben Artzi, shlita on Parshat Pekudei - Sheqalim 5771
As I have stated here previously, I have yet to find any fault with either the autistic messages or Rabbi Ben Artzi's messages. Until and unless I do, I will continue to post them as I see fit, because I believe they have some value for us. Despite what some others claim , but for which they bring no proof, I believe that these messages come from a pure source. If I did not, I certainly would not be sharing them. I'll go so far as to add that seeing who is conducting this smear campagin and how, I am more convinced than ever.
Two bloggers have now been demonstrated to have publicly and baselessly lied. I would like to remind them that they are already sitting in a very precarious position in chu"l and I call upon them to publicly correct the lies that they have printed and to cease and desist from lying via their blogs from this moment on.
All lovers of Truth have an obligation to take a side. As a start, it need not be a public one, but in your heart and in your own mind, you must know that there is something terribly wrong when a person must go to such lengths to discredit another. Especially, when they have nothing solid to bring, but purposely distort the facts and cast innuendo.
This ongoing campaign against Rabbi Nir Ben Artzi is lashon hara at its worst and pure sinat chinam. It must be given no quarter among Torah-believing and Torah-observing people.
Dear Readers,
I don't know about you, but I was raised in a culture that encouraged me not to take sides. After all, the argument goes, who's really to say who is right and who is wrong? Instead, you are supposed to acknowledge that everyone has his own truth and you are to accommodate each person as best as you can within the bounds of whatever you decide is your truth.
That is not the Torah way. Despite what some people want you to believe, there is such a thing as absolute truth. The Torah is about right and wrong, good and evil. It admonishes us to choose life over death, blessing over curse. In the beginning, Hashem separated the light from the darkness and the earth from the water. Everything was clear and ordered. The mixing and muddying and confusion that we experience daily is the result of Adam and Chava's sin. When they ate from the forbidden Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil, they internalized evil, mixing good and evil within themselves, making it difficult to distinguish the voice of the yetzer hara from that of the yetzer hatov.
We correct their sin a little bit every time we make a separation and restore the order that forms the basis of the Creator's work. Furthermore, taking sides is the essence of Moshe Rabeinu's call, "Mi l'Hashem alai," which was repeated by Eliyahu HaNavi and by Matityahu HaCohen HaGadol HaChashmonai.
Today, while the world at large is fighting tooth and nail to break down every barrier of division and to mix all peoples and philosophies and religions into one miasmic amalgam, the task of our generation is to make havdalah---separate and distinguish between Truth and Lie---and the battlefield is the hearts and minds of humanity.
Today, we---each one of us---must take a side. Of course, every right-minded person wants to choose truth, but hear this! It must be Truth without any mixture of lie. To the extent that we are still connected to the lies of this present reality, this will determine our chances for surviving into Days of Mashiach.
I don't believe that this was ever such a problem in past generations before there was television, movies, fiction novels, video games, and virtual realities. Today, a technician can computer-generate any reality that you can imagine. He can produce a video or a newspaper headline with pictures demonstrating someone doing and saying something which never even happened! Our world has been virtually given over to the LIES until we have become immersed in its impurity!
Understand this! We can not enter into the world of Truth without first purifying ourselves from the world of Lies and we can not do that without first letting go of the LIES and embracing the TRUTH, without any mixture of the two!
Now. It has come to my attention that once again, my position on a particular topic has been misrepresented and I have been falsely accused by someone who must surely know better, but no doubt stands to gain something by the repetition of these lies. Again, it is an accusation brought because of my association with the messages of Rabbi Nir Ben Artzi.
From the time that I first learned of his alleged lack of smicha, (because to date, I do not know if he has or he hasn't!), I have referred to him only as "Rabbi," not Rav and not HaRav. This was due to the respect I have for Rav Shmuel Eliyahu, whose smicha and stature in the Torah world is unquestioned, and who has publicly given his haskamah to Rabbi Ben Artzi's messages.
Someone posted the following, and I quote:
Someone posted the following, and I quote:
"MESSAGE TO THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL IN THE LAND AND ACROSS THE WORLD, from the mouth of HaRav Nir Ben Artzi, shlita on Parshat Pekudei - Sheqalim 5771
This is from Tomer Devorah's own hand."
The accusation is that I personally refer to Rabbi Ben Artzi as "HaRav...shlita." In truth and in fact, this is part of the translation of his parsha sheet message which should be self-evident and in any case is available by direct link to the original which is in Hebrew and which anyone knowledgeable in Hebrew, like the blogger, could easily confirm.
You do have to wonder though what is behind this obsession with Rabbi Ben Artzi having been a "tractor driver?" When was Rabbi Ben Artzi driving a tractor? More than fifteen years ago? What was Rabbi Akiva doing at the age of forty when he had yet to learn the aleph bet? How many people do you suppose wondered to themselves, and out loud, "...that Moshe ben Amram,...that David ben Yishai,...that Akiva ben Yosef, he's been a shepherd, smells like the animals, what could he ever turn into?"
The accusation is that I personally refer to Rabbi Ben Artzi as "HaRav...shlita." In truth and in fact, this is part of the translation of his parsha sheet message which should be self-evident and in any case is available by direct link to the original which is in Hebrew and which anyone knowledgeable in Hebrew, like the blogger, could easily confirm.
You do have to wonder though what is behind this obsession with Rabbi Ben Artzi having been a "tractor driver?" When was Rabbi Ben Artzi driving a tractor? More than fifteen years ago? What was Rabbi Akiva doing at the age of forty when he had yet to learn the aleph bet? How many people do you suppose wondered to themselves, and out loud, "...that Moshe ben Amram,...that David ben Yishai,...that Akiva ben Yosef, he's been a shepherd, smells like the animals, what could he ever turn into?"
As I have stated here previously, I have yet to find any fault with either the autistic messages or Rabbi Ben Artzi's messages. Until and unless I do, I will continue to post them as I see fit, because I believe they have some value for us. Despite what some others claim , but for which they bring no proof, I believe that these messages come from a pure source. If I did not, I certainly would not be sharing them. I'll go so far as to add that seeing who is conducting this smear campagin and how, I am more convinced than ever.
Two bloggers have now been demonstrated to have publicly and baselessly lied. I would like to remind them that they are already sitting in a very precarious position in chu"l and I call upon them to publicly correct the lies that they have printed and to cease and desist from lying via their blogs from this moment on.
All lovers of Truth have an obligation to take a side. As a start, it need not be a public one, but in your heart and in your own mind, you must know that there is something terribly wrong when a person must go to such lengths to discredit another. Especially, when they have nothing solid to bring, but purposely distort the facts and cast innuendo.
This ongoing campaign against Rabbi Nir Ben Artzi is lashon hara at its worst and pure sinat chinam. It must be given no quarter among Torah-believing and Torah-observing people.
09 March 2011
It's Our Choice
4 Adar II 5771
It's ironic to me that some people were frightened by what they thought Rabbi Nir Ben Artzi was predicting, especially when what he describes is a best case scenario.
The way I understand it, Rabbi Ben Artzi is telling us the "why" behind what we are seeing happen in the world and telling us "how" it will go from here IF we do our part to bring the redemption with mercy.
However, if we don't, and given past history, that's a distinct possibility, then it will very likely come according to din, in line with the visions of the autistics. This is compatible with the prophecies of Tanach that two-thirds of the world population may perish and of the remaining third, only ten percent might remain.
The messages from the autistics focus on what it is we need to do teshuva for, which is critical if we are to do teshuva effectively and forestall the great tragedies that are hovering over us.
Logically, we can expect to see things tighten up, not get looser and this presents our generation with a very big problem. Because everything in our lives is about getting looser and you see that evident everywhere and in everything, from morals to norms of dress to personal accountability, etc. You know what I'm driving at. You've seen it yourself.
Too many of us have assimilated the idea of the Xian god who forgives everything and makes no demands upon us. This view is contrary to what we learn from our Holy Torah.
We were only days out of Egyptian bondage when Hashem was prepared to wipe us out of existence. The Levites were commanded not to spare their own brothers when executing those who had instigated the golden calf affair. The sons of Aharon were struck dead for bringing an unacceptable offering. In David HaMelech's time, when they were moving the ark to Jerusalem, it appeared that it might topple from the wagon, so Uzzah put up his hand to steady it and was struck dead as soon as his hand touched it. Hashem told Moshe Rabeinu, man can not see my face and live.
We need to get a better perspective on Who HKB"H is and what He demands of us! He told us, "Be holy, because I AM HOLY." We currently live in a world that is greatly distanced from Hashem, but in a world where HKB"H will come close to us once again and will reveal Himself in His glory, the new world which is being born, how can we hope to survive and stand in His presence unless we get very, very serious about cleaning ourselves up and strengthening our spiritual side?
We are told that originally, Hashem wanted to create the world with din---strict justice---but, He saw that it could not survive, so He created it with mercy. It is for this reason also, that although Beit Shammai was more correct, we go by Beit Hillel in our present reality. However, we are told that in Days of Mashiach, we will go by Beit Shammai.
This tells me that we are going to be moving toward the side of din as we get closer to Days of Mashiach. I would even venture to guess that what we are seeing across the world is indicative of a spiritual movement towards the side of din or strict justice. And what this means for those of us who want very much to survive and merit to live in the glorious Days of Mashiach is that we have to get more serious about what is required of us and make vast improvements, especially in our loyalty to Hashem; in our level of faith; and in our midot and our attempts to attain a higher level of purity and holiness.
To quote from the latest message from the autistic children:
Q. People are saying that you need to talk about positive things, judge favorably and so on. What should we tell them?
A. You should tell them the truth. Until we experience the Redemption we must go through most difficult times. And what will happen if we are not ready? It's like a soldier that has been drafted into the army. You tell him, "Come, dear, everything is wonderful. There are flowers blooming, a blue sky, everything is calm, rest... soon there will be a war, soon... instead of giving him a gun and saying: "Start training! Hurry up! Lie down on your stomach, start crawling, that's the only way you'll save your life!"
To those who don't care if they live or die, and have no interest in entering into the joy and wonder of the geula shleima...I have nothing else to say.
08 March 2011
UPDATE NZ 'QUAKE
3 Adar II 5771
The story is never over by the time the media is finished with it. It's "old news," but the pain goes on...
10,000 homes in Christchurch will have to be demolished after force of quake 'liquified' ground underneath city
...Parts of the city, on New Zealand's south island, will have to be abandoned altogether after the magnitude 6.3 quake caused massive structural damage.
...It has caused 166 confirmed deaths so far, but that figure will rise as rescuers continue to search for bodies trapped in the rubble of buildings.
Earthquakes can cause sections of earth to liquefy and push up to the surface as watery silt, a process known as liquefaction.
In Christchurch, 260,000 tons of silt have already been scraped away.
Mr Key said: 'There are some parts of Christchurch that can't be rebuilt on.
'The liquefaction damage from the... earthquake is so great and the land damage... is so significant we can't remediate it.'
...Several hundred central city commercial buildings will also have to be bulldozed.
Mr Key said: 'Potentially there are some areas of Christchurch which will need to be abandoned and we will have to provide other alternatives for people to live in because the land has been so badly damaged we can't fix it - certainly not in a reasonable time frame.'
Modular houses will be brought in to provide temporary accommodation for some of the many thousands left homeless, many of whom will have to abandon their shattered homes and land.
...Almost all electricity supplies have been restored, but residents are being told to boil tap water because of the risk of contamination.
Officials say some 70,000 people - one-fifth of the city's population - have left as a result of the quake.
(H/T Global Disaster Watch)
The story is never over by the time the media is finished with it. It's "old news," but the pain goes on...
10,000 homes in Christchurch will have to be demolished after force of quake 'liquified' ground underneath city
...Parts of the city, on New Zealand's south island, will have to be abandoned altogether after the magnitude 6.3 quake caused massive structural damage.
...It has caused 166 confirmed deaths so far, but that figure will rise as rescuers continue to search for bodies trapped in the rubble of buildings.
Earthquakes can cause sections of earth to liquefy and push up to the surface as watery silt, a process known as liquefaction.
In Christchurch, 260,000 tons of silt have already been scraped away.
Mr Key said: 'There are some parts of Christchurch that can't be rebuilt on.
'The liquefaction damage from the... earthquake is so great and the land damage... is so significant we can't remediate it.'
...Several hundred central city commercial buildings will also have to be bulldozed.
Mr Key said: 'Potentially there are some areas of Christchurch which will need to be abandoned and we will have to provide other alternatives for people to live in because the land has been so badly damaged we can't fix it - certainly not in a reasonable time frame.'
Modular houses will be brought in to provide temporary accommodation for some of the many thousands left homeless, many of whom will have to abandon their shattered homes and land.
...Almost all electricity supplies have been restored, but residents are being told to boil tap water because of the risk of contamination.
Officials say some 70,000 people - one-fifth of the city's population - have left as a result of the quake.
07 March 2011
In the Interests of Truth
1 Adar II 5771It's been said that those who accuse others are guilty of the same. Those who pronounce "navi sheker" on anything that rocks them out of their comfort zone should be more careful not to lie.
I'm not a psychic, but I recognize intellectual dishonesty when I read it.
In regard to the messages from Rabbi Nir Ben Artzi, someone has written, and I quote: "...According to Rabbi Avi Matmon..., a prophet must state an exact date, and he must be correct, and if he makes even a tiny mistake, then he is a false prophet and we shouldn't listen to him."
This applies only if a date is given and only if the person claims that he is speaking as a navi. Neither is the case with Rabbi Nir Ben Artzi. He has not claimed to be giving prophecy, nor has he given any dates, (nor has he claimed to be Mashiach), contrary to the accusations of those who groundlessly wish to discredit him.
So this is a specious argument, as is the one that says Rabbi Ben Artzi is asking Jews to violate a mitzvah d'oraita when he calls on them to send all the Sifrei Hatorah to Eretz Yisrael since the Jews in chu"l need them to fulfill the mitzvah to read Zachor. It is understood from the context of all of Rabbi Ben Artzi's messages that the Jews are meant to come and bring the Torah scrolls with them, leaving everything else behind.
I mean, that is wanting very badly to find something with which to denigrate the rabbi when one must go to such convoluted lengths. It's practically erev ravian.
Another quote: "There is no reason to be feeling guilty or anxious because a psychic rabbi in Israel is saying that the world is about to end and everyone outside of the Land will die."
A red line has been crossed here from lying by implication and innuendo to outright lying. Rabbi Nir Ben Artzi has never, ever said "everyone outside of the Land will die."
On the contrary, he has said specifically that if Jews will come now, they will come with honor, but if they wait, they will come in shame. According to Rabbi Nir Ben Artzi, every Jew will come, even against his will if need be.
(Maybe the shame will come from having falsely accused Hashem's eved and shaliach and then having to face him.)
The writer continues, "Did he specify a date? No he didn't. Therefore, following the info given in Rabbi Matmon's shiur, he is not a prophet."
This constitutes lying, also, albeit by misrepresentation of this rabbi's words. Rabbi Matmon does not say that to be a prophecy a date is required, but that if a date is given, it must be 100% correct, as with any and every detail of a prophecy. But, again, Rabbi Nir ben Artzi is not claiming to be a prophet and again, he has not given any dates.
So, what about the charge that he falsely uses the title "rabbi?" The so-called smicha that is given today is not true smicha handed down from rabbi to student since Moshe Rabeinu. That was lost in antiquity. All it means today is that the person who uses it has passed a test qualifying him to answer halachic questions in a given subject. And not every rabbi is qualified in every subject, regardless of the title.
But, there is another situation in which rabbi is very commonly used, especially in Israel. Students very commonly call their teacher "rabbi" whether he has smicha or not. Now, Rabbi Ben Artzi has a large following of students and to date, I have not heard him discourse on halacha or pretend that he is capable of discoursing on halacha. His students are within accepted bounds to refer to their teacher as their rabbi.
Rabbi Ben Artzi has been accused of other spurious things which I will not dignify with a defense here. Consider the source, as they say, which has already thoroughly discredited itself.
I deeply regret that it has become necessary to break the link between this blog and the source of these false allegations against Rabbi Nir Ben Artzi. How ironic that a man who has only called for "good" and "mercy" and "unity" for Am Yisrael has become the subject of such sinat chinam.
FYI --- For Your Interest
1 Adar II 5771
The Torah tells us about a prophet named Bilaam whom the King of Moav bribed to curse Am Yisrael. Chazal agreed that he was no tzadik. He wasn't even a Jew, yet HKB"H saw fit to bestow prophecy upon him. Whatever he was and whatever he did does not detract from the truthfulness of his message as testified by the fact that Chazal included his prophetic words in the daily prayers.
The Torah tells us about a prophet named Bilaam whom the King of Moav bribed to curse Am Yisrael. Chazal agreed that he was no tzadik. He wasn't even a Jew, yet HKB"H saw fit to bestow prophecy upon him. Whatever he was and whatever he did does not detract from the truthfulness of his message as testified by the fact that Chazal included his prophetic words in the daily prayers.
(And this despite it having a single "date" in it. Out of all the books of "prophecy" in our Tanach, I wonder how many actually name a date. Hmmm.)
Bilaam is famous for the scene depicted above, in which he beat his donkey for veering off the path he was traveling. The donkey was trying to avoid an angel which she saw standing in the path ready to destroy Bilaam if he persisted in trying to curse Am Yisrael.
Someone else in our tradition is famous for riding a donkey---MASHIACH! Why "humble and riding a donkey" (Zech. 9.9) instead of on a white horse like a conquering hero? Chazal tell us that this is the way Mashiach will come if we are unworthy. In today's language, you might say... riding a farm tractor rather than in a Rolls Royce Limousine.
Hashem can and will do things that seem to us strange and unexpected, like choosing David ben Yishai to be King of Israel. Even the prophet Shmuel was surprised. But, we have to keep reminding ourselves that it's His show, not ours, and His thoughts and His ways are far, far above our own.
Time will prove what is emet and what is sheker. Meantime, we have to cling to HKB"H and pray that we will not be mislead, while keeping our eyes and ears and minds open to Hashem's Truth in whatever form He might choose to clothe it.
Hamavin yavin.
I'll close this subject with a quote from The Essential Writings of Abraham Isaac Kook, p. 5:
"...In one of his most seminal essays, 'The Road to Renewal,' Rabbi Kook had posited that there were two paths to religious truth: the study of classic texts, and an ongoing spiritual illumination which is experienced by sensitive spirits - a mystical experience, as we generally call it - through whom God continues to reveal ever newer dimensions of truth. But the latter, Rabbi Kook warned us, to be efficacious must be subjected to moral and rational refinement in the person through whom it is channeled, or the message will be distorted and become a source of stumbling."
Chodesh tov!
06 March 2011
It's Rosh Chodesh Adar - AGAIN!!
30 Adar I 5771
The Book of Formation is the first Kabbalistic text attributed to Abraham and compiled in its final form by the Tannaic sage, Rabbi Akiva. It enumerates the 12 months of the year and explains that each corresponds to a Hebrew letter and a particular sense, or talent, which is controlled by a particular organ of the body. The month of Adar corresponds to the Hebrew letter ק (pronounced: kof), its talent is laughter, and the organ that controls this talent is the spleen. Because the Jewish reckoning of months begins with the month of Nisan, in the Jewish year, Adar is considered the twelfth and final month. This means that laughter is the last of all human traits implying a well-known verse from the chapter on the woman of valor: “She laughs, awaiting the final days.”1 After all the ups and downs of the entire year, we enter a month of healthy and cathartic laughter.
Indeed, laughter is the best medicine and it has the power to turn all of the pain, misery, and difficulty of the past year into goodness and joy. At the end of the year, we find ourselves still standing, thank God, and all of the fears that we harbored in our souls (lest so and so happen…) are transformed and sweetened by our laughter. This transformation is alluded to in one of God’s connotations: “the Fear of Isaac,”2 which literally means “fear [itself] will laugh!” This is the theme of Purim, the holiday that we celebrate in Adar. On Purim we celebrate how all the fears of Haman and his planned genocide of the Jewish people were overturned. The fear turned into laughter. This is why the motto of the month of Adar is “abound with joy.” When there is but a little amount of joy, it tends to remain concealed in the heart. But when there is an abundance of joy, it overflows and is expressed as booming laughter.
(You can read more here.) Chodesh Tov! And may we finally know true joy as we stand before the month of Nisan--the time of our redemption!!
Indeed, laughter is the best medicine and it has the power to turn all of the pain, misery, and difficulty of the past year into goodness and joy. At the end of the year, we find ourselves still standing, thank God, and all of the fears that we harbored in our souls (lest so and so happen…) are transformed and sweetened by our laughter. This transformation is alluded to in one of God’s connotations: “the Fear of Isaac,”2 which literally means “fear [itself] will laugh!” This is the theme of Purim, the holiday that we celebrate in Adar. On Purim we celebrate how all the fears of Haman and his planned genocide of the Jewish people were overturned. The fear turned into laughter. This is why the motto of the month of Adar is “abound with joy.” When there is but a little amount of joy, it tends to remain concealed in the heart. But when there is an abundance of joy, it overflows and is expressed as booming laughter.
(You can read more here.) Chodesh Tov! And may we finally know true joy as we stand before the month of Nisan--the time of our redemption!!
04 March 2011
Beware
28 Adar I 5771
The more the Jews insist on being one with the gentiles, the more violently they will push us away from them. That is what happened in 20th century Germany.
CB 10 Rejects Hebrew School in Harlem
A presentation to put a Hebrew language charter school in Harlem was met with fierce resistance from local officials and residents, who want the school to move elsewhere.
...It would be open to all students.... “It’s an abomination. It’s an insult,” said Board 10 member Isis Ausar.
“[The school is] focused on breaking down barriers and understanding across cultures,” ....
CB 10 Rejects Hebrew School in Harlem
A presentation to put a Hebrew language charter school in Harlem was met with fierce resistance from local officials and residents, who want the school to move elsewhere.
...It would be open to all students.... “It’s an abomination. It’s an insult,” said Board 10 member Isis Ausar.
“[The school is] focused on breaking down barriers and understanding across cultures,” ....
Delegitimization
28 Adar I 5771
Someone sent me an article. I read it. I appreciate the thought behind it, but I cannot agree with its conclusions. It's typical of most articles about Israel these days. It's politically based. Israel is in dire straits and the "only solution" is, of course, a political one. So many Chicken Littles running around in circles screaming that the sky is falling---Israel is falling!
We walk around all day looking at the ground. Look up! See the big picture from Heaven's perspective! Everything is a message! Heaven is screaming at us and we walk around like the blind and the deaf, looking at the ground.
Why are the nations intent on "delegitimizing" Israel? Very, very simple. If Israel thinks it can be a nation just like all the others, separate and apart from Torat Yisrael, then its existence has no legitimacy in the eyes of Heaven and the nations just reflect that reality. Why do the nations blame us for all the world's ills? Very simple. Because they are our fault. Everything in the world happens, for ill or for good, because of us and for our sakes. So say chazal.
We replaced Hashem with non-gods and He placed upon us the threat of being replaced by a non-people---the so-called Palestinians. Read my lips: There are no political solutions to spiritual problems. There is only one solution and you've heard it so many times that it has lost all meaning. Your ears are numb to its truth---teshuvah, teshuvah, TESHUVAH!
The "settlers" have declared war on the Israeli police. Yesterday, they held a "Day of Rage," blocking intersections and burning tires in protest of police brutality against them in their ongoing opposition to government building policies in Judea and Samaria. Don't you get it? Hashem does not want more "settlements" if they are just going to be carbon copies of the ones that already exist! Why expand this illegitimate Jewish project in the Middle East if it's not going to fulfill the purpose for which it was created?
We've lost sight of our real reason for being here---to build a Torah-based society functioning according to the Creator's instructions, thereby sanctifying Hashem's Name before the entire world. What's going on in the world at large is a reflection of what is going on in Israeli society and right now it can be summed up in one word---chaos! It's not just Israel, but the whole world depends on us getting our act together. Think about it.
Shabbat shalom and chodesh tov~
02 March 2011
MARBIM B'SIMCHAH!
26 Adar I 5771
Rosh Chodesh Adar Bet is coming!!
Purim can't be far behind!
BE HAPPY!!!!
Rosh Chodesh Adar Bet is coming!!
Purim can't be far behind!
BE HAPPY!!!!