ב"ה
At the age of 140 Avraham remarries Hagar and fathers six children. Strangely, the Torah does not indicate that this was miraculous. In answering this question, this talk explores the divergent legacies of Abraham and Sarah and the respective roles of men and women in bringing about the Messianic Era. (Based on Likutei Sichos, volume 35, Chayei Sarah 3)
Smashing Idols
The famous story from the Midrash about how Abraham destroyed the idols in his father's shop. An excerpt from the full DVD “Young Abraham”.
Abraham’s acquisition of the Cave of Machpelah
A closer reading of a few unusual words in Rashi's commentary resolves puzzling questions in the narrative of Abraham's purchase of the Cave of Machpelah as a burial place for his wife Sarah. This novel insight affords a powerful message for our times. (Likutei Sichos vol. 35)
Our Special Connection to Chevron
There are three places in the land of Israel that the nations of the world are compelled to admit belong to the Jews: the Cave of Machpelah in Hebron, The Temple Mount in Jerusalem, and Joseph’s Tomb in Shechem, for all three were purchased outright. The first such acquisition was the cave in Hebron by Abraham. This class will explain why Providence ordained that Hebron be the first location where Jewish ownership is established. (Likutei Sichos vol. 25)
The biblical narrative of “Isaac meets Rebecca” isn't exactly a romantic courtship. A servant, appointed matchmaker is given access to unlimited funds to convince the “right” girl to marry a man without ever seeing him. To thicken the plot, this “match made in heaven” seems entirely incompatible and doomed from the get go. The unnecessary repeated details only provoke more questions. This profoundly mystical presentation reveals a vast new perspective; overwhelmingly dissolving all questions, and providing a compelling blueprint for achieving inner balance that equals personal satisfaction and happiness in life!
Parsha Curiosities: Chayei Sarah
Abraham’s famous servant looms large in the Bible with many virtuous qualities attributed to him in our sacred tradition. Yet, his master seems unable to trust him without administering a sacred oath. Why would such an outstandingly righteous person be so distrusted? This fascinating offering peels away the mysterious layers shrouding this legendary figure, to reveal his true identity.
While we may admire pristine order and perfection, is there greater virtue in another focus? Perfection and holiness can be two different paths. Learn how the busy, rumpled person may be actually greater in holiness, since he has a different priority. Gain perspectives on where to put your energy for maximum happiness and satisfaction.
Children’s Rally, 25 Kislev, 5741 • December 3, 1980
The Chanukah battle and victory were immortalized by the Sages. The candles evoke the memory of the small group of Jews who fought those who had opposed the Torah.
Today, we each battle our own evil inclination as well. Our victories, as well, will be eternally remembered.
Our current mission and battle is for the coming of Moshiach, as we request three times a day during prayer. Although we only request his coming three times a day, we yearn for him “all day”!
7th Night of Chanukah, 5748 · December 21, 1987
When a Jew celebrates Chanukah, he may be confronted: “You Jews are so few compared to
the nations of the world. Yet you hold fast to your customs and commandments, ignoring what
the billions of non-Jews around you think and do… Wherein lies your strength to stand in the
face of such odds?”
Chanukah reminds every Jew that it is G-d’s eternal mandate to carry the torch of His
“Mitzvah-candle and Torah-light.” With most Mitzvos, the “candle” and “light” are not
physically visible. But with the Chanukah candles we see how fulfilling the Mitzvah creates
actual physical light that illuminates all one’s surroundings.
Two Versions of the Timeline of the Maccabee's Victory
Among the early Talmudic commentaries, there are two opinions about the chronology of events commemorated on Chanukah. One says that the war was won on the 24th of Kislev and that the first day of Chanukah, the 25th of Kislev, is the anniversary of the first day of peace. The other says that on one day, the 25th of Kislev, the Maccabees both won the war and rededicated the Temple.
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