In their first three years, trees produce fruit that are orlah, which we are forbidden to eat or derive any benefit from them. We exhibit the important trait of patience in order to give the tree time to grow...
ROASTED FIG AND CARROTS INGREDIENTS: 8 dried figs 1/4 c orange juice 3/4 lb carrots, peeled and cut into 1” sticks 3/4 lb sweet potatoes peeled and cut into 1” sticks 1/2 lb parsnips, peeled and cut into 1”...
Parshat Bo tells the story of Yetziat Mitzrayim, the Exodus from Egypt. Throughout the Torah, the importance of this event, and of remembering this event, is emphasized. And many mitzvot were commanded specifically to ensure that we never...
In this week’s parsha, Moshe Rabbeinu is told by G-d, “Please speak into the ears of the people and a man shall ask from his neighbor and a women shall ask from her neighbor utensils of silver...
We next ask Hashem, “R’tzei Hashem Elokeinu b’amcha Yisroel uvis’filasam – Favor Hashem our G-d, Your nation Yisroel and their tefilos.” We first ask Hashem to favor us. For if, G-d forbid, He doesn’t favor us, then He despises...
The Ramban at the end of Parashah Bo writes that the miracles of yetzias Mitzrayim proved to Bnei Yisrael and the world that (1) Hashem exists, (2) He knows what is happening in the world, and (3) He leads the...
The Mishna (Rosh HaShana 1:1) relates that Tu B’Shevat (the fifteenth day of the month of Shevat) is the Rosh Hashanah (new year) for trees. What does this mean? There is a seven...
Rabbi Haim Palachi (Turkey, 1788-1869), in his work Mo’ed Le’kol Hai (chapter 30), discusses a number of different laws and customs relevant to the month of Shevat. He begins by establishing that the theme of this month...
Chaim Meisels, 29, is the great-grandson of the Satmar Rebbe, R’ Beirach Moshe. About eight years ago, Chaim chose to immigrate to Israel and enlist in the IDF. Chaim left everything behind, enlisted in...
During the winter break season, many families choose to go on vacations to rejuvenate after a year of stress. While it is undoubtedly a joyous time that should be enjoyed, the question arises: is it permitted to go on...