Machon Ohr Aaron and Betsy Spijer
The Ba’ale Ha-Kabbalah discovered mystical associations between Purim and Yom Kippurim, the only difference in Hebrew spelling between the two names being an initial kaf in Kippurim. Yom Kippurim then, would signify “a day like Purim.” This is no doubt a strange association. To suggest that Yom Kippur is like Purim is a most unusual way of looking to this awesome day. What is the possible meaning behind this observation?
The Torah reading of the second day of Rosh Hashana is the well-known story of Akedath Yitschak (the offering of Isaac by Avraham). Many explanations have been given as to why this portion should be read on Rosh Hashana. (See: Sefer HaToda’ah by Rabbi Eliyiahu Kitov for an overview. Book of Our Heritage, Feldheim, NY pp: 30-33) There is, however, a problem.
Introducing God Introducing God is one of the most difficult things to do. It is like presenting a three-dimensional reality on a flat surface. Still God is the most captivating figure in human history and His track record is most unusual. His deeds are unprecedented, yet very disturbing. He is to be loved but often irritates. He is above all human limitation but He gets angry and outright emotional. He is beyond criticism but is judged by the strictest criteria of justice. Religious people and thinkers believe that He is the only One who really has it all together and knows what He is doing.
The Art of Moral Irritation – One of the most disturbing claims ever made by any group of people is the one Jews make when, quoting the Bible, they insist upon being called the “Chosen People.” For nearly four thousand years, Jews have upheld the belief that they are God’s elect, the “apple of His eye,” His most beloved and favored nation. This claim sounds like prejudice of the highest order, making the vast majority of mankind into second-class citizens.
(Devarim 31:19)
With the above verse God commands Moshe to write down all the words of the Torah and make the Children of Israel contemplate these very words and use them as their guide to learning the art of authentic Jewish living. Commentators and philosophers have however wondered why the contents of the Torah are called a Song. Why not call it what it is: Words? Should it not have said: “Now, write these Words for yourselves and teach them to the Children of Israel?”