Friday, May 6, 2011

Rabbi Goldsmith Parashat Emor Understanding your place Com



Published 3:38 PM PDT

Perkat Avot 17.avi Don't forget to greet everyone with a smile



Published 3:25 pm PDT

Mayor Goldsmith's Thank you letter to our dear friends who have been standing behind Itamar:

It is the custom in the period between Pesach and Shavuot to learn Pirkey Avot, the moral and ethical teachings brought down from Har Sinai. Pikey Avot contains the wisdom of the Torah defined by our sages who received tradition from Moshe Rabbeinu who received it directly from G-d. It is these teachings that have kept the Jewish people strong and unbeatable much like our roots, going back to our Avot (Patriarchs) who were the symbol of perseverance even when enemies tried to overcome them. They stood strong physically and spiritually. When we come to understand the teachings of Pirkey Avot we know that there is no obstacle we cannot overcome as we experience Hashem in every aspect of our lives.

Now as we live in the time of the unfolding of the story of our redemption, as Israel is a matter of fact and reality has us returning to our land, we look back with sorrow at the demeaning life experiences in exile and marvel at how we have recovered and resonate a light unto the nations. We have gained a position blueprinted at the creation of the world to return as a sovereign nation of Israel in the Land of Israel. But our journey is not over yet as we still are tested with opposition from many directions.
 
Pirkey Avot opens with the concept of " Your people are tzaddikim" – VeAmcha koolam tzaddikim". With the acts of chesed and kindness that you have personally done for Israel, for Itamar, we are reminded of this passuk and how you are a part of the long chain that holds us together. We know this is a weighty task in hard economic times, in unstable times when nobody knows what tomorrow might bring. Your incredible mitzvah of generosity will bring you steadfast strength, like the Avot had as well in spiritual and physical bounty. You are our partner in the tasks of this generation.

The people of Itamar have been tremendously encouraged by your enthusiasm. We have all been through extremely hard times here. The best way to console a community that has experienced tragedy is in its continued building and permanence. Thank you again for your love and care. Please come and visit us on your next trip to Israel.

Published 3:20 PM PDT