DEVARIM

Dear Friends

The Book of “Devarim – Deuteronomy”, the fifth and final Book of the Torah, is devoted mainly to Moses’ farewell addresses, which he delivered to the Jewish People before his passing, and their entry to the Land of Israel.

“Moses rebuked the Jewish People, after he had smitten Sichon, king of the Amorites, and Og, King of Bashan…” (Deuteronomy 1:4)

People accept rebuke more readily after having received some benefit from the person giving the rebuke. By rebuking someone, we are doing them a spiritual favour, so by preceding this spiritual favour with one of material, we ensure that both parties relate to the rebuke in the proper light – rather than considering it an act of ill will.

Moses, by his example showed that the principle applies even when an individual or a group in need of a rebuke for a sin as grave as the Golden Calf. We learn that we should extend others our fullest help, both material and spiritual, in order to assist them in choosing a proper path in life.

By helping others in this way, we earn G-d’s help in finding our own good path in life, as well as His assistance in providing for the material needs of ourselves and our loved ones.

This Shabbat is Tisha B’av (9th Av) the saddest day in the Jewish calendar, usually a 25 hour fast day commemorating the destruction of both our Temples in Israel. However, as it falls on Shabbat it becomes a day of celebration as we don’t fast on Shabbat with the exception of Yom Kippur. The fast is postponed until Saturday night beginning 9.04pm through to Sunday evening 9.46pm.

Feel free to contact us at our office for service times throughout the fast day.

Wishing you a joyous Shabbat, and easy fast followed by a successful week.