Torah

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The Mystery of Chukim

The power of intellect is one of the most misunderstood concepts in the Western world, making this week’s parshah all the more important to understand. Parshas Chukas introduces us to the paradigmatic chok, the mitzvah of parah adumah – the Red Heifer. The common understanding is that a chok is meant to be held in contrast to a mishpat. A mishpat represents a logical and rational Torah law, such as the prohibitions of murder, adultery, and stealing. Such laws appeal to the human intellect and innate morality present within all human beings, irrespective of religion, race, or ethnicity. A chok, however, represents the unique group of Torah laws that seem to defy human logic and rational explanation, such as the parah adumah, kashrus (Jewish dietary laws), and shaatnez (the prohibition of mixing wool and linen).

A hallmark of the Jewish experience is the myriad of brachos intertwined into the fabric of daily living. From the moment we wake up (Al N’tilas Yadayim) until the moment we fall asleep (HaMapil), we make brachah after brachah on every imaginable aspect of our lives. Before and after eating, throughout davening, even after going to the bathroom. Every milestone of life is accompanied by a unique brachah, as well: from the birth of a child, potentially followed by bris milah and pidyon ha’ben, and subsequently to mark marriage and even death. Life’s milestones are marked and uplifted through brachos.

The story of Korach is often classified as one of rebellion, but it can also be seen as mistaken idealism, a philosophical challenge, or misplaced spiritual yearning. On the surface level, it seems that Korach attempted a coup, rallying supporters from amongst klal Yisrael in an attempt to overthrow Moshe and Aharon’s leadership.

One Of Israel’s Greatest Rabbis, Renowned For Hundreds Of Phenomenal Miracles

Hardly a year has passed since the Biale Rebbe of Bnei Brak has visited Great Neck, yet hundreds are excitedly anticipating the return of their revered Rebbe. Each year when the Rebbe arrives at the house in Great Neck, where he lodges, the place becomes a public source of attraction as hundreds of people of various standards and types gather. The place becomes a hive of activity as lawyers, doctors, lay leaders, rabbis, educators, ranging from Hassidic to modern orthodox mingle as they flock to the Rebbe’s house. From early morning until the small hours of the night the streets resound with miraculous tales of unnatural miracles seen and experienced firsthand as a result of the Rebbe’s blessing.

It was a stormy night, and a battleship was on exercise at sea. The captain stood on the bridge, looking into the foggy night ahead of him. Suddenly, he heard the lookout shout from the observation post, “There’s a light on the starboard side!”