Chanukah Magazine 2012 by Shmuly Altein

Winnipegâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jewish Holiday Magazine | Compliments of Chabad-Lubavitch

Winter 2013 | Chanukah 5773

ChabadWinnipeg.org

HOLIDAY Magazine

Eight Days of Light

DEDICATED DEDICATED TO TO THE LOVE AND THE LOVE AND INSPIRATION INSPIRATIONOF THE LubavitchEr OF THE rEbbE LubavITChEr rEbbE

Rabbi & Mrs. Avrohom Altein Rabbi & Executive Director Rabbi & Mrs. Boruch Heidingsfeld Camp Gan Israel, Family & Youth Programs Rabbi & Mrs. Yacov Simmonds Partners with Chabad Rabbi & Mrs. Shmuly Altein Jewish Learning Insitute, Torah Tots zalmyChabad berkowitz photography www.zalmyb.com

Chabad-Lubavitch of Winnipeg - "Judaism with a smile!"

zalmy berkowitz photography Jewish Learning Centre www.zalmyb.com 1845 Mathers Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3N 0N2 Web: www.ChabadWinnipeg.org Email: office@ChabadWinnipeg.org Phone: (204) 339-8737 Fax: (204) 480-4396 Printed by Kromar Printing Ltd. 725 Portage Avenue Telephone: (204) 775-8721 Fax: (204) 783-8985 Email. info@kromar.com

he sixth Rebbe of Lubavitch remarked, “We must listen carefully to the story that the Chanukah candles tell us.” Let’s take a careful look at how we light the Dear Friend, candles, the Mitzvah that is central to celebrating Chanukah.

Did Chanukah Chanukahwas happen years ago, is it happening When first established as or a holiday, there werenow? three Looking options forat the events today, you start to wonder. The story of a little candle how to light candles. The basic requirement was that every family light a singlepushing candle, awaynight the of monster of frightening darkness, human sensibility overcomevery Chanukah. Even on the eighth night,of a single candle would suffice to do ingMitzvah. terror and bruteand force, of life growth –that the A second better leveland of doing theovercoming Mitzvah was destruction that a candle be lit battle is very much alive today, in a world where oppression and tyranny for each member of the family. A family of four people, for example, would light four clash with and kindness.. candles everygoodness night, including the last. But is also deeperlevel meaning to by thethebattle Chanukah. We live But thethere preferred andahighest suggested sagesof was that the number of candles we light should correspond to the of number of that day values of Chanukah. day in an age of confusion; in a world upside-down whereEvery life feels we addofanother candle, that on eighth day, webring light eight Preferably, void meaning. Thesobattle of the Chanukah is to lightcandles. into this spiritual every child in the family lights their own eight candles. darkness and to give life direction and meaning. It And is this what last option, highestcandle” level andthat best illuminates way to perform Mitzvah that is thethe“small thisthedarkness? “A has become the standard way that Jews light the candles in every community Mitzvah is a lamp and the Torah is the flame.” The richness and around beauty the No other enjoysissuch There are Jews that willand demonstrate of globe. the Torah andMitzvah its Mitzvot the stature. antidote to the confusion spiritual exceptional diligence in the way they perform every Mitzvah, but the of darkness that confront us. Torah is the spiritual compass thatmajority gives life observant Jews are content with doing the very basics of Jewish observance. Only direction and purpose. And the “Lamp of G-d is the human soul.” No physChanukah has this unique status in that every Jew strives to do the Mitzvah in the ical force of oppression can crush the indomitable soul that burns within very best way.

the heart of every Jew, the “Yiddishe Neshama.”

That is because Chanukah is all about the love of Mitzvot. The Greek-Syrian That would is thehave trueleft story of Chanukah. Jews,they outnumbered withtheir few oppressors the Jews unharmed, would be willing to and abandon arms, fought courageously for the freedom to study Torah and observe the observance of Judaism. But the Greeks banned the observance of Kosher and Shabbat, precepts of Judaism. And they won because the power of the spirit is more circumcision, Jewish marriage and the study of Torah under the penalty of death.

forceful than the power of arms.

EDitor-in-chiEf: Rabbi Shmuel Marcus Managing EDitor: Doba Lieberman EDitor: Bluma Marcus Distribution: Rabbi Avraham Green EDITOr-IN-ChIEF: Rabbi Shmuel Marcus crEativE DirEctor: Nechama Marcus MaNaGING EDITOr: Doba Lieberman DEsign: Zalmy Berkowitz EDITOr: Bluma Marcus contributing DEsignEr: Josh Casarez DISTrIbuTION: Rabbi Avraham Green photography: Zalmy Berkowitz, www.Zalmyb.com CrEaTIvE DIrECTOr: Nechama Marcus sEction EDitors: Fay Kranz Greene, Rashi Brashevitsky, Rabbi DESIGN: Shais Taub Zalmy Berkowitz phOTOGraphY:WritErs: Zalmy Berkowitz, www.Zalmyb.com contributing Maurice Lamm SECTION EDITOrS: RabbiLaine Chaim Shira Gold, spEciaL thanks: Shalom andSilver, www.tphny, Bill Dr. Arnie Gotfryd, Mendy Rimler Pinkerson WEbSITE:www.SoulWiseMagazine.com www.SoulWiseMagazine.com WEbsitE: ©2011 by Soulwise Magazine (Over 150,000 copies printed nationally) All rights ©2012 by Soulwise (Over 250,000 copies printed internationally) All rights reserved, includingMagazine the right to reproduce any portion of This magazine in any reserved, including thewritten right to permission reproduce any portion This magazine in by anyaform, form, without prior from the of publisher, except reviewer without prior to written permission from the publisher, except by a reviewer who wishes who wishes quote brief passages. to quote brief passages. Printed in the USA Printed in in the Canada Printed USA

chanukah chanukah5772 5773

It was their deep love of Judaism that motivated Jews to risk their lives and fight Chanukah is an eight-day spiritual Many won people know the the valiantly for the freedom to live as Jews. Whenjourney. the Maccabees the battle, story of Chanukah—but only as a historical pretext to give gifts and climax of their joy was when they regained the ability to perform the precepts eat of latkes. We can call bodywhen of Chanukah. The soul ofable Chanukah is its Judaism. Their true joythat was the realized they were miraculously to rededicate and kindle the Menorah. inner story. It is the story of igniting our inner souls and reaffirming our

dedication to the beauty of Jewish life. the love of Judaism and its Mitzvot. So Chanukah is the holiday that celebrates

And that why addone another candle every night, because it is only when wetoo do the Justisas weweadd more candle each night of Chanukah—so can Mitzvot with love and joy that Jewish life can flourish and grow. we grow in our affirmation of Judaism by adding one Mitzvah at a time.

Step Mitzvah Mitzvah andLubavitch candle after candle—we fill Thatbyisstep, the essence of after Chabad-Lubavitch. is from the Russianwill word this world with love, brightness light. “Luba” that means becauseand the city of Lubavitch was established to promote the love of Judaism. And Chabad is the Hebrew acronym for Wisdom, Understanding, In this tradition, Chabad presents to Winnipeg’s Jewish Community Knowledge—because the key to developing appreciation and love of the Mitzvot is by this exciting Menorah Lighting. Join us for the Public Menorah Lighting deepening one`s knowledge and understanding of Judaism.

Ceremony on Sunday, December 9th at 4:00 pm and share the joy and Chabad`s new Jewish Learning spirit of Chanukah with us! Centre inspires the love of Judaism, so that this

community can continue to flourish and grow, adding more and more “candles.” We Sincerely, welcome you this Chanukah, to share Chabad`s enthusiasm. Share the joy, the warmth and the love by joining us in the new Jewish Learning Centre. Chanukah! Rabbi Happy Avrohom Altein

RabbiLearning AvrohomCentre Altein Director, Chabad-Lubavitch Jewish

>> Send us your comments to editor@soulwisemagazine.com

kosherdistrict THE WORLD IN REVIEW

Where to find… a Dreidel in tunisia

a kipa in hawaii 75-5660 Kopiko Street Suite C7 PzMB 225 • Kailua Kona, HI 96740-3611 808-315-8542 www.chabadbigisland.com

a hot Latka in geece Chabad of Athens • 5 Averof Street Athens, 10433 • Greece 30-210-520-2880 www.chabad.gr

Chabad of Tunis • 73 Rue De Palestine Tunis, Tunisia 216-71-782-536

a shabbat Meal in china Chabad of China • 7-9 Macdonnell Road, Hong Kong, China • 852-2523-9770 www.chabadchina.com

a Mikvah in Ecuador Chabad of Ecuador • El Universo E8-133 y Av. Los Shirys Quito, Pichincha Ecuador 593-26-026-770 www.jabad.org.ec

a Menorah in kfar saba

a prayer book in perth

Chabad of Kfar Saba Weitzman 105 Kfar Saba, 44102 • Israel • 972-9-767-3568 www.chabadks.co.il

Chabad of Perth • 396 Alexander Drive Perth, WA 6059 Australia • 61-8-9375-3770 www.chabadwa.org

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The Ultimate War in Jewish History

in-DEpth anaLysis: basED on thE rEbbE’s taLks

What is striking about the Talmud’s description is that there is only the merest passing reference to the miraculous military victories that preceded--and enabled--the Hasmoneans’ liberation of the Holy Temple . While mentioning that “the royal Hasmonean family overpowered and was victorious over [the Greeks],” the Talmud says nothing of the fact that this was a battle in which a small band of Jews defeated one of the mightiest armies on earth. The focus is wholly on the miracle of the oil, as if this were the only significant event commemorated by the festival of Chanukah. Contrast this with the Al HaNissim prayer, recited on Chanukah to recount “the miracles ... that You have done for our ancestors in those days, at this time”:

In the days of Matityahu... the Hasmonean and his sons, when the wicked Hellenic government rose up against Your people Israel to make them forget your Torah and to make them violate the decrees of Your will; You, in Your abounding mercies, stood by them in the time of their distress.... You delivered the mighty into the hands of the weak, the many into the hands of the few... the wicked into the hands of the righteous... and you effected a great deliverance and redemption for Your people Israel .... Then Your children entered the house of Your dwelling, cleansed Your Temple, purified Your sanctuary, kindled lights in Your holy courtyards, and instituted these eight days of Chanukah to give thanks and praise to Your great name. “In other words, there seems to be a complete separation between the “physical” and “spiritual” miracles of Chanukah, to the extent that the mention of one precludes any mention of the other”

what is chanukah?” asks the talmud, and encapsulates the essence of the festival in the following lines: “When the Greeks entered the Sanctuary, they contaminated all of its oil. When the royal Hasmonean family overpowered and was victorious over them, they searched and found only a single cruse of pure oil that was sealed with the seal of the Kohen Gadol (High Priest)--enough to light the menorah for a single day. A miracle occurred, and they lit the menorah with this oil for eight days. The following year, they established these [eight days] as days of festivity and praise and thanksgiving to G-d.” chanukah 5773

Here, it is the miracle of the oil that is ignored. While the Al HaNissim speaks of “lights” kindled in “Your holy courtyards,” this is most probably not a reference to the lights of the menorah--whose appointed place was not in the courtyard of the Holy Temple but inside the Sanctuary--but to lights kindled in celebration throughout the Temple compound and the city of Jerusalem (which explains why Al HaNissim speaks of “courtyards,” in the plural). In any case, even if the lights in question are those of the menorah, there is no mention of the miracles associated with its lighting. In other words, there seems to be a complete separation between the “physical” and “spiritual” miracles of Chanukah, to the extent that the mention of one precludes any mention of the other. When the physical salvation of Israel is remembered and we thank G-d for delivering the “mighty into the hands of the weak, and the many into the

hands of the few,” we make no reference to the miracle of the oil; and when we relate to the spiritual significance of Chanukah--the triumph of light over darkness--it is free of any association with the physical victories that accompanied it.

The Spiritual Festival

The struggles and triumphs chronicled by the Jewish calendar are always more than the struggle for physical survival. The Exodus, commemorated and reexperienced each Passver, was more than a people’s liberation from slavery to freedom; it was their extraction from a pagan Egypt to receive the Torah at Sinai and enter into a covenant with G-d as His “nation of priests and holy people.” On Purim we remember that Haman wished to annihilate the Jews because “they are a singular people... whose laws are different from those of all other nations”; Purim thus celebrates not only the salvation of the physical existence of the Jew, but of the Jew’s identity and way of life.

right to study the Torah and fulfill its commandments, but for the very soul of Judaism, for the purity of Torah as the divine word and its mitzvot as the divine will.

The Lesson

Man is comprised of a soul and a body: a spiritual essence that the Chassidic masters call “literally part of G-d above” and the physical The spirituality of Chanukah is emphasized vehicle via which it experiences and impacts by the festival’s principal mitzvah, the kin- the physical world. dling of the Chanukah lights. We are physical beings, enjoined to anchor our every ex- The body was designed to serve the soul in its perience to a physical deed: on Passover, we mission to develop the world in accordance celebrate our freedom with matzah and wine; with the divine will. Of course, man has been on Purim, we read the Megillah, give money granted freedom of choice. The body might to the poor, send gifts of food to our friends, thus rebel against the dominion of the soul; and feast and drink. Chanukah, too, has its it might even subject its rightful master to its “ritualistic” element, in which a physical act own desires, making the pursuit of material and object embody the festival’s significance. things the focus of life and exploiting the But here the vehicle is the most spiritual of soul’s spiritual prowess to this end. But in physical phenomena--light. On Chanukah, its natural, uncorrupted state, the body is the the overriding emphasis is on the spiritual es- servant of the soul, channeling its energies sence of our struggle, so that even its physical and implementing its will. face is an ethereal flame dancing in the night. There are, however, many levels to this submission, many degrees of servitude of matter to spirit. The body might recognize that the purpose of life on earth lies with the soul’s aspirations, yet also entertain an “agenda” of its own alongside the greater, spiritual agenda. Or it might selflessly serve the soul, acknowledging the spiritual as the only goal worthy of pursuit, yet its own needs remain a most visible and pronounced Separation of Miracles part of the person’s life, if only out of natural So when the Talmud replies to the question, necessity. “What is Chanukah?” it defines the festival Chanukah teaches us that there is a level of solely in terms of its spiritual miracles--the supremacy of soul over body that is so abdiscovery of the pure, undefiled cruse of oil solute that the body is virtually invisible. It and the rekindling of the divine light which continues to attend to its own needs, because emanated from the Holy Temple. Since this is the festival which commemorates our most a soul can only operate within a functioning spiritual battle, its spiritual content predomi- body; but these are completely eclipsed by the nates to the extent that it completely eclipses spiritual essence of life. One sees not a mateits physical aspect. Although the military rial creature foraging for food, shelter and miracles preceded and made possible the comfort, but a spiritual being whose spiritual lighting of the menorah in the Holy Temple , endeavors consume his or her entire being. they are completely ignored when we speak of For all but the most spiritual tzaddik, it is the miracle that defines the essence of Cha- not possible, nor desirable, to perpetually nukah. maintain this state; indeed, it is Chanukah This is also the reason that the prayer insti- for only eight days of the year. But each and tuted by our sages to give thanks to G-d for every one of us is capable of experiencing the military victories omits all mention of the moments of such consummate spirituality. miracle of the oil. For only when they are re- Moments in which we so completely “lose garded on their own can the military miracles ourselves” in our commitment to our spirbe emphasized and appreciated. Were they to itual purpose that our material cares become be discussed in relation to the miracle of the utterly insignificant.

They fought not for any material or political end, not for the preservation of their identity and lifestyle, not even for the right to study the Torah and fulfill its commandments, but for the very soul of Judaism, for the purity of Torah as the divine word and its mitzvot as the divine will.

Yet the battle waged by the Hasmoneans against the Greeks was the most spiritual battle in Jewish history. The Greeks did not endeavor to physically destroy the Jewish people, or even to deprive them of their religion and way of life; they merely wished to Hellenize them-to “enlighten” their lives with the culture and philosophy of Greece . Keep your books of wisdom, they said to the Jew, keep your laws and customs, but enrich them with our wisdom, adorn them with our art, blend them into our lifestyle. Worship your G-d in your temple, but then worship the human body in the adjoining sports stadium we’ll build for you. Study your Torah, but integrate it with the principles of our philosophy and the aesthetics of our literature.

The Hasmoneans fought for independence from Hellenic rule because the Greeks sought to “make them forget Your Torah and make them violate the decrees of Your will.” They did not fight for the Torah per se, but for “Your Torah”--for the principle that the Torah is G-d’s law rather than a deposit of human wisdom which might be commingled with other deposits of human wisdom. They did not fight for the mitzvot as the Jewish way of life, but for the mitzvot as “the decrees of Your will”--as the supra-rational will of G-d, which cannot be rationalized or tampered with. They fought not for any material or political end, not for the preservation of their identity and lifestyle, not even for the

oil, they would fade to insignificance. Within the supra-spiritual context of Chanukah’s central miracle, they are reduced to a minor detail scarcely worthy of mention.

Based on the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s talks on Chanukah 5726 (1965) and 5734 (1973), (Likkutei Sichot, vol. XXV, pp. 235-242).t

winter 2012-13

The LighT of

FREEDOM by Rabbi Dovid Eliezrie

he said, “The Christmas tree can stay but the Menorah must go.” At the time he won an injunction. But, everything changed when the US Supreme Court ruled that Menorah’s can be placed on public property as long as they are paid for with private funds, so the Menorah returned. This year Menorahs where placed in hundreds of US communities. In a few a minor protests was heard but each invariably failed. Church and State was just a camouflage for a deeper issue. Historian Charles Silberman described almost twenty years ago in his book A Certain People the dominant attitude in modern Jewish life when he has growing up was “Shah, lets not make too much noise.” Two decades ago a young Chabad rabbi moved into a well established Southern Community. His first Chanukah he organized a Menorah lighting in the largest mall in town. Summoned by the local leadership for a meeting he was told “how could you put a Menorah in a public place” the young rabbi retorted, the mall is not a public property, its owned by a private corporation, the leadership replied “you don’t understand, the problem is that it is too public.” The Jewish establishment wanted a quiet Jew, one who did not draw to much attention to himself.

“We believed that a Jew should be a citizen on the street and a Jew in the home, the Rebbe believed that if you were a Jew on the street then you would be a Jew in your home, we where wrong and he was right” historian Arthur hertzberg at a chanukah cELEbration in life in the last few decades. Time and again a thE WhitE housE a fEW yEars Chabad rabbi would put up a public Menorah ago Jewish identity came full circle when at city hall, park or Public Square . Jewish comeleven year old Menachem Felzenfeld decked munity leaders would meet in consternation. out in a black hat and suit lit the Chanukah “It contravenes the principle of church and state” Menorah in the White House. Standing next they would declare. A first the leadership to the President and First lady was his mother, would meet to try to appease the Chabad rabbi. brothers and sisters. He was chosen for the The Rabbis argued that this was a great tool for honor since his father is serving as a chaplain in outreach and would ignite Jewish pride. In Iraq . The leaders of the Jewish establishment some communities this worked and communifilled the room. For years they had battled ty leaders agreed. In some cities they continued Menorah lightings in public places. Now they to pressure but Chabad held firm. were gathered in the most public space in the When I put up a Menorah in the Orange country watching as a young Chabad Yeshiva County Civic Center the American Jewish student light the Menorah in the presence of Congress dispatched Steven Kaplan, a lawyer the President of the United States. from Los Angeles to argue in court against the The Menorah Wars were a feature of Jewish Menorah. I sat in the courtroom in shock as chanukah 5773

On the first day of Chanukah we had a spirited debate at a class in an Orange County California law firm about this issue. One retired lawyer who had grown up in the depression said, “why put up the Menorah you will wake up anti Semitism.” The rest, mostly younger, did not share his view. It was that attitude of insecurity that the Rebbe wanted to shatter with the public Menorah campaign. In his recent book American Judaism Brandeis professor Jonathan Sarna, says Lubavitch “promoted mass candle lighting in ceremonies in outdoor public places flouting the beliefs of Jews who felt that religion should be confined to the private sphere, in the home or synagogue.” Of course there were true believers in church state issue. Alan Dershowitz, a Jew who never hides his identity, told me when I congratulated him for lighting the Menorah in Harvard Yard, “its private property, I’m still opposed to the Menorah on publicly owned property.” According to historian Arthur Hertzberg, who served as president of the American Jewish Congress, the group that was most persistent in its anti Menorah campaign said “We believed that a Jew should be a citizen on the street and a Jew in the home, the Rebbe believed that if you were a Jew on the street then you would be a Jew in your home, we where wrong and he was right.” Rabbi David Eliezrie is the President of the Rabbinical Council of Orange County and rabbi of Congregation Beth Meir HaCohen/Chabad. His email address is rabbi@ocjewish.com

chanukah, The Guide Did Chanukah happen years ago or is it happening right now?

chanukah is more than a holiday; it is an eight-day spiritual journey. In this tradition, we present Chanukah in a New Light. Many people know the story of Chanukah, the triumph of a small group of Jews who challenged their Greek oppressors and a little oil that miraculously kindled the lights of the menorah for eight days. The spirit of Chanukah is experienced when we apply its joy, warmth and light to our livesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;not only in our homes with our loved ones, but with the entire world. Celebrate Chanukah â&#x20AC;&#x201C; December 8-16, 2012

winter 2012-13

a lexander the great was the leader of the greek empire who by the age of 21 had conquered most of the known world. He respected the Jews. He didn’t want to wage war against tiny Judea; he only required heavy taxes. The Talmud details many conversations that young Alexander had with the Jewish Sages, many of whom traveled to Greece to tutor royalty. After Alexander’s death, the Greek empire was split into three territories: Greece, Egypt and Syria. In 175 B.C.E., Antiochus IV rose to power over the Syrian territories, which included Israel. The Syrian Greeks, called Seleucids, were not interested in co-existence, but in assimilation. The Talmud, the Book of the Maccabees, Josephus and other works detail the events of Chanukah. Antiochus IV sent his ministers to force Greek culture on the people of Israel. Most Jews conformed. What else could they do against the might of the empire? The Zohar says of this period: “The Greeks darkened the eyes of Israel with their decrees.” The festival of Chanukah is about light overcoming darkness. Our world is currently experiencing a particularly dark time. We have become apprehensive, even about opening the letters in our mailbox. Our sons, daughters, friends and neighbors are halfway around the world, fighting an enemy that has no borders.

The big trouble for the Seleucids began in the village of Mod’in, when the aged Kohen Mattisyahu cried out, “Whoever is for G-d, join me!” Thus, the fight for religious freedom began. King Solomon wrote, “Everything has its season … A time to be born, a time to die … A time for war, a time for peace” (Ecclesiastes). In Judaism, peace is the ultimate goal. Yet if one is being attacked, Jewish law forbids a passive stance. Peace and the sanctity of human life require, at times, that one must defend one’s self, one’s family and one’s country. Despite the fact that the Maccabees were fewer in strength and in numbers, they stood up against the oppressor with complete faith in G-d’s mercy. One lesson of Chanukah is that when we resolve to introduce spirituality into our lives, G-d assists us well beyond our limitations. G-d tells His children, “Make for Me a small opening, like the eye of a needle, and I will open for you an opening through which caravans can enter” (Midrash). We simply need to begin the process for G-d to help us attain that which we perceived as unattainable.

A world of peace begins with inner peace. When one makes peace within, it has an effect on his or her home, environment and eventually the entire world.

“The soul of man is a lamp of G-d” (Proverbs 23:27). Our challenge, whether we are on the front lines or fighting rush hour at home, is to bring light into the world. The reason the Chanukah candles are lit after nightfall is to remind us that even in our darkest moments, we have the potential to illuminate if we kindle a flame.

spiritual annihilation Antiochus IV, called Epiphanies (the Illustrious) by his friends and Epimanes (the Madman) by his enemies, did not build ghettos, force conversions or set out to annihilate the Jewish people, as Pharaoh or Nebuchadnezzar had plotted before him. Neither did he intend to destroy their culture. Instead, he outlawed the observance of specific mitzvot (Divine actions), predicting that when the Jews would cease to observe these precepts, it would lead to the end of Judaism as a unique religion and nation. He wanted the Jews to be just another conquered tribe. And so, he declared war against their souls. The Greeks were great philosophers. They acknowledged the mitzvot as part of a great culture, and the Torah as a great work of Jewish literature. What they would not tolerate was that “G-d, Creator of the Universe, ordained the practice of these mitzvot.” In the words of the prayer recited on Chanukah, the Greeks set out to have the Jews forget “[G-d’s] Torah,” and to cease observing “[G-d’s] commandments.” Whenever we do a mitzvah, we become G–d’s autograph on His masterpiece, declaring for all that this is not a jungle where the strong devour the weak. It is a beautiful garden, filled with the light of its Creator.

War and peace Hellenism, the Greek culture, meant accepting its pagan gods and Greek philosophy. Jews who were sympathetic to the Hellenistic view quickly gained power and prominence. But many Jews remained loyal to their beliefs. Eliezer, a Kohen (Jewish priest), was executed because he refused to abandon his Jewish faith. Many Jewish women were murdered for having their sons circumcised. Seven sons of Chana, a simple Jewish woman, were put to death for refusing to bow down to pagan gods. chanukah 5773

pure Light

Antiochus IV outlawed three specific mitzvot and rendered their practice punishable by death. These mitzvot were “Shabbat,” which is a testimony to the fact that there is a Creator Who rested on the seventh day; “Blessing the New Month,” which determines when Jews can sanctify their holidays; and “Circumcision,” which imbues holiness into the human body. The spiritual ghetto that Antiochus IV tried to force on the Jewish people was a world without a Creator, time without sanctity and people with no connection to the Divine.

Though a person might have a burning desire to be spiritual, a concrete action is needed to ignite a flame. Lacking the oil of genuine substance, one’s passion can quickly fade, failing to introduce any enduring light into the world. A life without mitzvot is like a wick without oil—it yields little or no light. There are nine branches on the Chanukah menorah, even though Chanukah is celebrated for eight days. The ninth branch is the shammash, the “servant” candle, which stands apart from the other candles. This candle is lit so that when we make use of the Chanukah light, we do so from the shammash, and not from the eight Chanukah flames. “…These [eight Chanukah] flames are kodesh (holy). We are not permitted to make use of them, only to gaze at them” (Chanukah liturgy). The Hebrew word “kodesh” literally means separate and beyond. In Judaism, although we can appreciate holy objects and observances on many levels, they are essentially higher than our finite understanding and perception, since they are rooted in the Infinite. It was this “holiness” that the Greeks failed to destroy. And it is this holiness that is manifested in the lights of Chanukah.

The War Mattisyahu the Kohen, and his five sons, began to challenge the Greek strongholds with a group of followers called the Maccabees. Historical sources estimate their numbers at 6,000, while Antiochus IV sent 40,000 troops to overwhelm them. Yehudis, a young widow, used cunning tactics to assassinate

Holofernes, a vicious Seleucid general. After significant losses in the cities of Shechem and Beit Choron, Antiochus IV sent an additional 65,000 troops. The Maccabees fought bitter, yet intelligent, battles that are studied by military tacticians to this very day. After three years and thousands of lives, Israel was finally free. On Chanukah, we celebrate two miracles: the victory of the Maccabees over the forces of Antiochus IV in the battlefield, and the miracle of the oil which burned for eight days. The victory in the battlefield was miraculous, but it was physical, limited by time and space. The miracle of the oil, which enabled the Jewish people to resume the service in the holy Temple, was spiritual. Jews around the world emulate this miracle and spirituality today by observing Chanukah.

holiness continuously burns and longs to be fanned into a great flame. The universe was created to perpetuate light, and it is inherently good (Genesis). But there are times when darkness invades G-d’s world. At such times, we search for the hidden “single jar of pure oil” (Chanukah liturgy), the pure and indestructible spark of Creation, which radiates goodness and holiness. The Maccabees had done all that was physically possible, but the small jar of oil was only enough to light the candles of the menorah for one day. To prepare more oil would require a process of at least seven days. After defeating the world’s most powerful army and gaining religious freedom for generations to come, the Maccabees were not about to give up. They lit the menorah with the little oil they found, and miraculously, the menorah shone for eight days, plus 2000 years, as Chanukah continues to illuminate our home and world today.

The Chanukah struggle is found within each of us. Chasidic teachings explain that we have two souls. One soul is However miraculous their victory, some drawn to the spiritual, the other to the would attribute the Maccabean military physical. We may reconcile this dual- success to their superior strategy. The ity by being involved with the material last night of the holiday is called Zot world, but toward a spiritual end. This is Chanukah, “This is Chanukah.” Our one reason why there are so many mitz- Sages explain that “zot” refers to somevot in the Torah, all of them involving thing when it is revealed and tangible, physical action. When the physical is en- “when it can be pointed to with a finger.” gaged for spiritual purposes, the conflict When the Jewish people witnessed a sciis transformed into peace and harmony. entific impossibility, the miracle of the A world of peace begins with inner peace. oil, there was no denying G-d’s presence. When one makes peace within, it has an Why does G-d perform miracles? effect on his or her home, environment Without miracles, such as the oil found and eventually the entire world. in the holy Temple, one might believe that the laws of physics define reality. untouchable However, once we see the inexplicable, Victory turned bittersweet when the we witness a transcendent reality and Maccabees found that the Temple attain a higher consciousness. We can was desecrated and the pure oil need- then look back at physics, point with our ed to light the menorah was defiled. finger and realize, “This too is a miracle.” Miraculously, the Maccabees discovered a single jar of pure oil, with the seal of The Baal Shem Tov said, “The differthe Kohen Gadol (Jewish high priest) in- ence between nature and a miracle is the tact. With this oil, the Holy Temple was frequency.” reinaugurated. The Kabbalah, Jewish mysticism, teaches Why didn’t the Seleucids just destroy that the ultimate miracle is not the splitthe oil, as opposed to defiling it? Oil is ting of the sea, manna from heaven, or a symbol for holiness. It can permeate the sun standing still. It is described as anything. Yet when placed in water, it the subtle and, at the same time, dramatrises to the top. Defiled, not destroyed, ic transformation of the universe that oil is exactly what Antiochus IV wanted. will occur with the arrival of Moshiach. He allowed the Jews to adhere to their At that time, nature itself will uncover culture and keep their laws, as long as it its miraculous essence. What is now was “touched” by the Greek ideals and perceived as a wall between the physical and spiritual will be revealed as a bridge. philosophy. How can we bring about this miracle? Chasidic teachings explain that despite With the light of our collective mitzvot. any entity that tries to sever our connection to G-dliness, the essence of a soul can never be defiled. This spark of

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU

LIGHT The Soul of a Flame the

name

“chanukah”

is rooted in several

different, yet related, sources.

it comes from “kah,” the hebrew equivalent of 25, and “chanu,” meaning rest. it is also connected with the words “inauguration” (chanukat) and “education” (chinuch). On the 25th day of the hebrew month of Kislev, the Maccabees rested from their battle. They marched victoriously into the holy Temple in Jerusalem, ready to reinaugurate the holy service. They would forever serve as role models, or educators, to future generations. What does a soul look like? Look at the flame of a candle. A flame is bright, jumping, never resting; the natural desire of a soul is to “jump up” to g-d, to break free of physical limitations. The wick and candle anchor a flame; a physical body grounds the soul, forcing the soul to do its job, to give light and warmth. The human body, precious and holy, is likened to the holy Temple. The Baal Shem Tov, founder of Chasidism, always advised against asceticism, fasts and hurting the body. Better, he would say, to use your body to perform a deed of kindness. Kindness is contagious. When our soul tells our body to do a kind deed, both the soul and body are affected. eventually, other souls around us awaken and influence their bodies to do the same. Before long, we create an international epidemic of kindness. This is one reason why the Chanukah menorah is placed where it can be seen from the street, either in the doorway across from the mezuzah or near a window, reminding us of our duty to share the spiritual light of warmth and wisdom with our surroundings. winter 2012-13

the laws of light Who Lights The Menorah?

All members of the family should be present at the kindling of the Chanukah Menorah. Children should be encouraged to light their own Menorahs. Students and singles who live in dormitories or their own apartments should kindle menorahs in their own rooms.

Where to place The Menorah? Many have the custom to place the menorah in a doorway opposite the mezuzah (such is the custom of Chabad-Lubavitch) so that the two mitzvot of mezuzah and Chanukah surround the person. Others place it on a window sill facing a public through-fare.

how to set up your Menorah? It is preferable to use cotton wicks in olive oil, or paraffin candles, in amounts large enough to burn until half an hour after nightfall. If not, regular candles can be used as well. The candles of a menorah must be of equal height in a straight row. The shamash, the servant candle that kindles the other lights, should stand out from the rest (i.e. higher or lower). The Chanukah Lights must burn for at least half an hour each night. Before kindling the lights, make sure that there is enough oil (or if candles are used, that they are big enough) to last half an hour.

how to Light The Menorah? On the first night of Chanukah one light is kindled on the right side of the Menorah, on the following night add a second light to the left of the first and kindle the new light first proceeding from left to right, and so on each night. Blessings Before Lighting The Menorah: 1. Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with chanukah 5773

His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the Chanukah light.

2. Bo-ruch A-toh Ado-noi E-lo-hei-nu Melech Ha-olom A-sher Ki-de-sho-nu Be-mitzvo-sov Ve-tzi-vo-nu Le-had-lik Ner Cha-nukah. On the first night of Chanukah only: 3. Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has granted us life, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this occasion. After kindling the lights, the Hanerot Halalu prayer is recited.

special shabbat requirements On Friday eve the Chanukah Lights are kindled before the Shabbat Lights (which are lit 18 minutes before sundown). Additional oil or larger candles should be provided for the Chanukah Lights insuring that they will last half an hour after nightfall. Note: From the time the Shabbat candles are lit until Shabbat ends and the Havdalah (separation between Shabbat and weekday) prayer is recited, the Chanukah menorah should not be re-lit, moved or prepared. After Shabbat ends, the Chanukah lights for Saturday night are kindled.

sitting by the Lights One is not to benefit from the light of the candles, only from the shamash and other sources of light. During the time the candles are burning, it is customary to sit by the candles, and tell stories relating to the holiday. Work should not be done in the proximity of the burning candles. Some women have a customarv to refrain from household work during the half hour that the lights are burning, to honor the brave Jewish women who played a significant role in the Chanukah

story.

More chanukah prayers During the eight days of Chanukah, we recite the Al HaNissim liturgy in the Amidah (daily silent prayer) and in Grace After Meals. The complete Hallel prayer (see your prayerbook) is also said in the morning service. A portion of the Torah is read daily in the Synagogue during morning prayers.

Extra charity It is customary to increase oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daily giving to charity. On Fridays we give double the amount, to account for Shabbat.

chanukah gelt It is traditional to give all children Chanukah gelt (money). Of course, this beautiful custom adds to the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happiness and festive spirit. In addition, it gives adults an opportunity to give the children positive reinforcement for exemplary behavior, such as diligence in their studies, and acts of charity. Chanukah Gelt is given to children after lighting the menorah. The children should be encouraged to give charity from a portion of their money.

holiday foods Because of the great significance of oil in the story of the Chanukah miracle, it is traditional to serve foods cooked in oil. Among the most popular Chanukah dishes are potato latkes (pancakes) and sufganiot (doughnuts). It is also customary to eat cheese on Chanukah, in commemoration of the bravery of Yehudit.

THE 5-MINUTE CHICKEN FINGERS What healthy protein filled dinner can be ready in five minutes with no prep work? I found the secret that’s always a hit with my kids, and with a little fancy sauce and quick side of steamed vegetables, makes an impressive anytime dinner. Here it is: Chicken Fingers by S’better Farms. I keep a stash of these in my freezer for unforeseen crunch times. The ingredients are: skinless, boneless, chicken breast seasoned with chicken flavoring mixture and breaded in rice flour, corn flour, and less than 2% of salt, ground chili, paprika, onion, garlic, spices, egg. Cooking Instructions: Defrost chicken fingers in refrigerator or microwave. Simply remove from package and place in fryer (recommended) for 4-5 minutes. Or pre heat oven to 400 place chicken fingers on cookie sheet place them in oven for 15-20 minutes. Microwave: Defrost chicken fingers in refrigerator or microwave. Open top of tray and place in microwave on high for 3-4 minutes. Quick side of Steamed Asparagus: Simply remove asparagus stems and wash well. Boil water in a pot or pan. Drop the fresh asparagus into water for 30 seconds and quickly remove. Serve with rice or quinoa.

NO MESS DINNER IDEAS

Food.

America’s Only Kosher Corn Dog

It’s a family tradition that we eat corndogs for dinner while mom prepares for Shabbat. The kids sure don’t mind, and preparation is easy enough for any dad. But it wasn’t till recently that I went to meet America’s only Kosher Corndog maker. S’Better Farms is located in Los Angeles, California and I was happy to see that the corn dogs are produced in a segregated area keeping them completely wheat and gluten free. America’s only Kosher Corn Dog can be found in your supermarket’s frozen food section. These premade frozen delights simply need to be thawed and then fried. You can even microwave those meals-on-a-stick if the kids are that hungry. I would recommend preparing the corn dogs in the oven or better yet, in a large fryer. Step one is to defrost the corn dogs in refrigerator or microwave. Preheat oven or fryer oil to 350oF. Step two is to gently remove corn dogs from package and place on cookie sheet or directly into the fryer. Cook for 10-15 minutes in oven or 3-4 minutes in fryer. If that’s not fast enough, you can microwave a single corn dog in 1-2 minutes. My kids love dipping the corn dogs in ketchup and mustard, so be sure to provide some dipping options. Corn Dog’s make for the ultimate easy and fun dinner for kids of all ages. S’Better Farms Corn Dogs are sold at Sprouts, Winn Dixie, ShopRite, Kroger and more. To find a Kosher Corn Dog near you visit sbetterfarms.com winter 2012-13

a Story:

Modern Day

Maccabees by Shmuel Marcus

oncE upon a tiME (Last yEar) thErE Was a sMaLL toWn that suffErED froM DarknEss. soME caLLED it the pain of loneliness while others knew it as the pain of illness. For years the town’s people quietly suffered alone and almost all hope was lost. When suddenly a group of modern day Maccabees arose and began to wage battle against these forces of hopelessness and despair. These Maccabees would travel the world (and their local communities) to help every Jew. These spiritual warriors transformed their small homes into communal oasis of light. The brave men would reach out to Israeli soldiers in the north and help young backpackers in the east. Soon the newspapers would tell stories of the modern Maccabees lighting a giant menorah at the White House and how they bring holiday cheer to a bedridden child. It was not only the men, for the women were the bravest of them all. On Fridays these fearless Maccabee women would host thousands of young college students allowing them to experience a very first Shabbat dinner. And the young Maccabee children would patiently explain the joy of Judaism to their peers. This is the story of Chabad today. These energetic soldiers of inspiration are the men, women and children of Chabad Lubavitch. Motivated by the teachings and inspiration of Lubavitcher Rebbe, a workforce of tens of thousands currently serve the global Jewish community through some 4000 centers located in more than 65 countries. The exact number of centers changes quite often as a new center opens (on average) every ten days. These modern day maccabees have built schools, synagogues, summer camps, soup kitchens, in places like South Africa, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, Canada, and in almost every major city in the United States, making Chabad one of the most dynamic and dominant forces within the Jewish community today. And no Jew is too small and no community is too far. For example, about an hour south of Cancun and an hour north of Tulum , Mexico – smack in the middle of the Riviera Maya – sits the scuba-diving haven of Playa del chanukah 5773

Carmen. With an infusion of capital and visitors, the once-sleepy fishing village is undergoing a rapid transformation into a tourist’s paradise. That’s why Rabbi Mendel and Chaya Goldberg have opened Chabad of Playa Del Carmen. Their Public menorah is lit across the street from a bustling Starbucks. In Toledo , Chabad’s Women’s Circle met to “Uncork the Artists” within the local women

Rebbe’s empowering call and join the ranks of his well known “Army of Shluchim.” After meeting my wife and starting our own family, this dream, this commitment of one hundred percent dedication to the pursuits of the Rebbe’s team of emissaries eluded us, and life, as it so often does, quickly moved us down a path foreign to our youthful hopes and dreams. As my career evolved, my promise, my commitment to the Rebbe’s mission, sat dormant -- unmet and rotting on the sidelines. Or at least that’s how I saw it at that point in time. I felt as though I had deserted my colleagues as I entered the business world, as if I quit being a participant and in its place, became an observer.

Soon the newspapers would tell stories of the modern Maccabees lighting a giant menorah at the White house and how they bring holiday cheer to a bedridden child who came for painting, wine, and an ‘Art and Kabbalah’ presentation. The community in Naperville joined Chabad and Home Depot for a handy build your menorah session. These dedicated men and women have surely brought light and joy to someone you know and care about. Chabad’s holiday programs and awareness campaigns reach millions annually. Originally, Chabad-Lubavitch took root in the Chassidic movement of the 18th century. In Czarist and Communist Russia, the leaders of Chabad led the struggle for the survival of Torah Judaism, often facing imprisonment and relentless persecution for their activities. After the Holocaust, Chabad became a worldwide movement, caring for the spiritual and material needs of all Jews, wherever they could be found. Thanks to Chabad, you can find a kindergarten in France and a free-loan in Long Island, a hospital visit in Thailand and a bar mitzvah in Australia . No matter where you go Chabad can be counted upon for educational and social services. And for that we salute them and thank them on behalf of the millions that benefit from their kindness and dedication. Shmuel Marcus is the Editor of Soulwise Magazine

Is Chabad a philosophy? by Levy Lieberman

I recall standing transfixed as the crowd around me grew more joyous. Caught in a moment of pure inspiration, I humbly appreciated the enormity of what I had merited to be part of, and I knew, in fact I swore, that as I left the four walls of that Yeshivah, I would heed the

Over time however, grappling with this burden proved most insightful, and is ultimately the reason I agreed to contribute to this issue, along with its stated theme of shedding light on Chabad as a global organization and Jewish movement.

A Chabad House is a center of Jewish life – a place akin to the holy temple that once stood in Jerusalem, whose windows interestingly projected light outward, for it is the light of the Temple Menorah, indeed the light that burns within every Jewish soul, that the world so desperately needs, and that the Temple and the Jewish people in every generation are capable of delivering.

abstract, and sometimes distant. Philosophy has rarely garnered the kind of energy Chabad is so well known for. Some say it is a great humanitarian organization, albeit with a Jewish twist. We all know its so much more. Humanitarian activists are never seen riding mobile homes through midtown Manhattan blaring Chassidic music, and wrapping Tefilin on the arms of the many Jews whom they encounter. I say Chabad is also a lifestyle choice. It’s the ability to recognize that its teachings are not abstract and part of intellectual pursuit. It’s the capacity to see oneself as an actor on the great stage called Creation. It’s the willingness to surrender our own selfishness to a higher calling, to give of ourselves under all circumstances. Sure wherever there’s Coca Cola you’ll find Chabad, and wherever there’s Chabad you’ll find published Chabad works accounting for centuries of the most profound Torah teachings and elucidations. Upon closer observation however, you will realize that what really matters, what stands at the core of all the real estate, love, and wisdom are individuals who have laid aside their own concerns and desires, and have instead focused on yours.

…even as some other branches of Judaism and other religions have withered, they have ventured to the far corners of the earth: Siberia, Alaska, Kiev, Odessa, ho Chi Minh City…

Does Chabad comprise of the cadres of young men and women, the Rebbe’s foot soldiers and their selfless Ahavas Yisroel, love of their fellow Jew? Is Chabad best described by the many, sometimes even secular, professionals, politicians, and scientists who are proud to count themselves amongst its ranks? Or is Chabad ultimately defined by the hundreds of volumes of Torah and Chassidic anthologies published over seven generations by a leadership dynasty unparalleled in the history of the diaspora?

Ultimately I came to realize that no matter where G-d’s plan leads us, the capacity to give, to teach, to reach beyond ourselves, is something we can all aspire to. Chabad Shluchim are my heroes, and I work everyday on making my own home and work environment a Chabad House as well. I want to be like them, I know I can be. And so can you. Levy Lieberman is VP of Technology at www.Prodege.com and www.Swagbucks.com

Is Chabad a globally recognized Jewish network, competing for a space at the table of the Conference of Major Jewish Organizations? Or is it something more? Some say Chabad is at its core, a philosophy. We all know its so much more. Philosophy is winter 2012-13

wishes you and your family Chanukah. a

freilach

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Imagine iMaginE Once upon a time, when the workday was over, we went home to relax.

wanted to go, but did not know quite what to expect.

Today, our work follows us wherever we go. “When I entered We compulsively check our emails. We are the Hyatt hotel, I constantly anxious and impatient. Even when was taken aback; I we go on vacation, our smart phones are never was not expecting that far from our reach; our minds are still back at intensity of elegance, the office. Upon our return home, we are more comfort, and beauty,” says Robin. stressed than ever, trying to tackle what piled “If a person can think of something they up in our absence. Imagine a different kind of vacation. A getaway would like to do during a vacation, it’s there. The depth and breadth of the lectures where you not only refresh your body, but your are unmatched anywhere else. The cream of spirit as well. An experience that enables you the Jewish world was at my fingertips. I learned to renew an awareness of what is meaningful, so much more than I could have imagined... gain perspective and direction, and explore itwas the most soul-satisfying experience. A new ideas. welcoming, beautiful environment where When Robin Gutman, a lawyer from Melville, people greet you with open arms no matter NY and a mother of five sons, found out about who you are and where you come from. the National Jewish Retreat, she knew she

“Everyone attends the Retreat for his or her own reasons, but there is a common sense of joy--an intense joy and a deeper joy than you can experience on your own.” The seventh Jewish National Retreat will take place at the luxurious Hilton in Alexandria, Virginia, August 6-11, 2013. For more information or to register, visit www. jretreat.com or call (877) JRETREAT. Rabbi Boruch Cohen | Director National Jewish Retreat Land and Spirit - Mission to Israel The Rohr Jewish Learning Institute 822 Eastern Parkway | Brooklyn, NY 11213 Phone: 718-221-6900 | Fax: 718-221-6907 Bcohen@myJLI.com | www.Jretreat.com www.landandspirit.org

The Jewish world is counTing on chabad... ...and chabad is counting on you Each of the 4,000 Chabad centers is run independently with its financial support coming from local donors like you. Contact your Chabad center and let them know you care. Chabad is a tax-deductable organization and you can receive the full deduction allowed by law. Thinking about donating real estate, cars or boats? Contact your local Chabad and do your part in supporting the Jewish future. Make your mark on Jewish history with a meaningful gift to future generations. Leave a living legacy by putting Chabad in your will and trust. See back cover for your local Chabad’s contact information.

winter 2012-13

is Your Tax Deduction a Mitzvah? A deeper look into Chanukah Gelt and the Jewish view of Charity. By: Maurice Lamm

charity

is traditionally thought

solely to helping fellow man, to relieving the burden of neighbors in trouble. But it is not so: charity is considered by the rabbis to be more than aid and assistance. It is, in every sense, a religious act, a way of relating to G-d, by whose "charity" we survive. Giving charity fulfills one of G-d's commandments. Giving is not an extraordinary event, but a common one expected of every Jew. of as relating

There was no truly Jewish home without its charity box, the pushka. The pushka became a depository not only of moneys, large and small, but of the family's prayers that ride on every coin as it is dropped in - before the Sabbath, after hearing good news, during important events - for the sake of family peace, for an aunt's recovery, Israel 's safety, Ethiopian Jews, even good grades and good business. The Yom Kippur prayer book positions charity alongside repentance and prayer in a vigorous declaration - the combined power of these three acts can overcome evil edicts; it can "save" us from a meaningless death; it can bring the redemption. And redemption indeed it brought. If kindness is one of the marks of the Jew, charity - although less difficult to execute - is globally and historically reputed to be the chief characteristic of Jewish communities. In the 20th century alone, the Jewish people have literally redeemed millions of homeless and persecuted brothers and sisters. In this regard, they are indeed the paragons of giving in the modern world. Justice or charity?

The late Shmuel “Sami” Rohr, a philanthropist believed to have given more than $250-million to Jewish causes around the globe said: “During my lifetime I have contributed funds to many different institutions I found that Chabad spends my money more efficiently than all the others. As my son George says, ‘We get far more bang for the buck with Chabad than through anybody else.” chanukah 5773

Support for the disadvantaged in Judaism is not altruism. It is "justice." The Latin term for charity, caritas, implies an act of giving by the "haves" to the "havenots" - out of the goodness of their hearts. The "have-not's" may not be strictly deserving of the support because they didn't earn it, but the "haves" want to be merciful and so they share their wealth. Contrariwise, in Judaism, the term for charity is tzedakah, which derives from tzedek, which means "justice." G-d gave limited resources to people. Some garner a greater share, some a lesser share. But since all are created equally in the image of G-d, there is a duty that devolves upon the "haves" to give of

their substance to the "have-nots" in order to effect justice and to enable the have-nots to survive, as they themselves do. The laws of charity - as listed in the Torah - are described in agricultural terms:

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And when you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap all the way to the edges of your field, or gather the gleanings of your harvest; you shall leave them for the poor and the stranger. I, the L-rd, am your G-d. (Leviticus 23:22) When you reap the harvest in your field and overlook a sheaf in the field, do not turn back to get it; it shall go to the stranger, the fatherless and the widow ... (Deut. 24:19-22)

In the twentieth century alone, the Jewish people have literally redeemed millions of homeless and persecuted brothers and sisters Every third year, you shall bring out a full tithe of your yield of that year, but leave it within your settlements. Then ... the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow in your settlements shall come and eat their fill ... (Deut. 14:28-29). Explains Maimonides that in the cases described above, the owners of the fields exercise no control over which poor receive the leftover produce, the product of their beneficence! Generally one designates the recipient of one's charity: "A poor man who is a relative, comes before all others," etc. But here the owners have absolutely no rights of selection. The poor come into the field and take their due from the owners - by right! Although we do not live in an agricultural society, these laws translate into our economy. The knowledge that Jews are obligated to give these kinds of funds and to operate under such a definition of charity might deter some converts, Rashi explains, so it is necessary to inform them of this in advance. Such is the obligation and such the glory of the Jewish religion. That Jews are known for their charitable ways is no aberration of history. Giving is indigenous to this people and it echoes through the long corridors of Jewish history, from the brittle voices of ancient ancestors to the tzedakah songs of kindergartners in today's Hebrew day schools. Maurice Lamm was awarded an honorary doctorate by Yeshiva University, from which he holds a B. A., M. A., and rabbinic ordination. He has served on the faculty of Stern College for Women, was field director of Military Chaplains, and traveled for the U. S. Department of Defense with the civilian equivalent of Major General. His chaplaincy duties took him around the world. One of his most important contributions has been the creation of the National Institute for Jewish Hospice.

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From Your Spiritual

Headquarters by Dora Lieberman

teenagers who lead different lifestyles but all share their love for Judaism. The CTeen experience enabled me to view Judaism as not only my religion but as a way of life. Each and every person that I met on the trip gave me a new insight to how different Jews lead their lives. CTeen was such a positive experience that I feel privileged to be part of.” >> it’s bEEn caLLED thE LargEst gathering of its kind. The annual Chabad Lubavitch Shluchim Convention brings together Chabad Rabbis and lay leaders from literally every corner of the globe. Close to 5,000 community leaders converge on the Crown Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn , New York for five days of lectures, workshops, and networking in more than seven languages. The pulse of world Jewry can be felt at the annual banquet as representatives from the entire world are heard singing and dancing under one roof. The soul inspiring event is only held once a year. >> havE you sEEn thE roving rabbis? Do you ever worry about a Jewish family living in a small isolated community in the outskirts of Budapest or Rome ? How about the Jewish military family stationed in a small town in India ? Well, the Roving Rabbi’s worry about them. In the 1940’s Chabad established a Jewish version of the “Peace Corps” with the Student Visitation Program. Hundreds of Rabbinical students voluntarily give up their personal summer vacations to travel to remote locations to meet, teach, and provide Jewish services to each Jew no matter where.

>> What if MosEs haD a cELL phonE? Better yet, what if you had Moses on speed dial? What would you ask him? Well, Jnet.org just may be the answer. Although they don’t provide you with a direct phone line to Moses or Maimonides, they do give you a direct line to an over the phone study partner.

>> if you’rE in high schooL or you know someone who is, you may want to do yourself or them a favor and check out www. CteenCentral.com.

JNet provides business people, students and homemakers the opportunity to take some time out of their busy work week - whether at the office at home or even on the go - to study Torah, from the weekly Torah portion to the technical intricacies of Jewish Law, the stimulating logical analysis of the Talmud to the spirituality and meaning of Chassidus and the Kabbalah. Studying one on one with a Jnet volunteer is bound to bring Jewish thought and spirit into your life.

The power of youth can transform the teen years into a time of purpose and self-discovery. That’s why the Chabad teen network seeks to help teenagers harness the incredible potential of youth with awesome programs that bring teens together to give back to their communities and the environment. The annual Shabbaton in New York brings hundreds of teens together for a life changing experience. This is what Talya Gordon from Atlanta said about it.

Want to get started? The process is simple. Log on to Jnet.org and after you apply you will be called for a brief phone interview to ascertain the specifics of your background, times and study topics. The time between this and finding a study partner is typically one to two

“CTeen has been one of the most amazing experiences for me. On the New York trip I got to take a look at the lives of other Jewish teenagers like myself. I created many lasting friendships and felt a strong connection to Judaism. CTeen brings together Jewish

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weeks. The program is free and offered from Chabad World Headquarters in New York . For more information visit www.Jnet.org

Recent places visited: Sardinia, Italy; The Dakotas; Bosnia; Beijing, China; Des Plains, IL; Kauai, HI; Wales, UK....These young Chabad representatives have already brought Torah, joy and warmth to Jews in thousands of cities in over one hundred and fifty countries. “Our goal is to make Judaism accessible, inviting and relevant to every Jew, everywhere,” says Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky, Vice Chairman of Merkos L’inyonei Chinuch who overseas the program. In a small town in Serbia , the tiny Jewish community had a shofar but no one knew how and when it was to be blown. In Ontario , a thought provoking Torah class provides Jewish food for thought. In Wisconsin , a young family basks in the joyful atmosphere created by the Shabbatons arranged by the young visitors. In many places, they have become an integral part of the fabric of Jewish life, as their yearly visits have become a much-anticipated highlight of, and source of inspiration for the entire year.

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