Parashat Toldot
„And the voice of Yaakov, chirping in synagogues and study halls alike, negates the filth in the hands of Esav — who yearns for murder and blood, and for the spreading of hooves of boorish, alien pseudo-piety, how one tithes the straw and how one tithes the salt — 'for game was in his mouth.'”From Shemonah Kevatzim 5:37
There is an essential power to the people of Israel: Torah and prayer and morality that were brought down into the world and bring a different culture, a different faith, and different aspirations toward a repaired world. The essence of Judaism was never to turn the entire world Jewish, but rather a world in which every nation and tongue fulfills its unique and deep role. And when the people of Israel are connected to tradition and to their values, they succeed in refuting the power of Esav — the impurity and the yearning for murder, blood, and falsehood. Alongside the important physical war being waged against the enemy, we must recognize the deep need to build a spiritual edifice that will be an alternative to wickedness.
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This study is dedicated today to the safety and return of Chen Goldstein-Almog (48), who was abducted from her home in Kfar Aza.
From the community archive of Mishpetei HaRav Kook — studying Rav Kook's teachings since 2011.