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May 24, 2013 /15 Sivan, 5773
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The Tosfos Yomtov was convinced that the death of 300,000 –600,000 Jews during the Chmielnicki massacres of 1648-49 were because of improper Tefila. Communicated: Tefilla

Chillul Tefila Bifarhesia, as well as halachicly challenged verbiage and dress, are external manifestations of a critical lack of personal yiras shomayim which has lethal consequences.



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Itamar: A Painful And Powerful Wake-Up Call


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We must teach the leaders of the world that the divine phenomenon of Jewish independence in the Land of Israel is not a temporary episode in the Middle East. The State of Israel and its miraculous advancements in all fields – medicine, economics, technology and especially the great revival of Torah scholarship and a life highlighted by Jewish values – prove that Israel is the most stable, secure and permanent entity in the Middle East.

All these truths have come to the forefront in light of the slaughter in Itamar. Our people stand upright and will not yield under even the most vicious circumstances. The modern Zionist pioneers, imbued with the strength of faith, will continue to carry the Zionist torch, recognizing this as a divine process that will determine the destiny of the Jewish people. Only a government inspired by the spirit of such people will receive the confidence, loyalty and trust of its Jewish citizens.

From Megillat Esther we learn that one lone Jew who does not bow to the wicked enemy holds the power to eradicate the evil decree. Like Mordechai, a Jew filled with divine spirit and Torah values can encourage and inspire an entire nation to nobly fight for its right to exist. How much more so if you have a land of thousands of Mordechais.

Rabbi Eliezer Waldman is rosh yeshivaof Yeshivat Nir Kiryat Arba.

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About the Author: Rabbi Eliezer Waldman is rosh yeshivaof Yeshivat Nir Kiryat Arba.


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