Unlock Your Light: Wisdom from Beha'alotcha & Shlach

We begin by commemorating the Yahrzeit of Reb Moshe Bochner, a monumental figure in Torah learning and Chinuch (Jewish education), especially in Antwerp. May his legacy continue to inspire deep Torah study and heartfelt teaching.

We also dedicate this message in loving memory of Leah bas Menachem Yehudah, Mrs. Adler, a true Ishet Chashuvah (woman of valor) and mother of Mrs. Eva Landau. May her Neshama have an Aliyah (spiritual ascent) and serve as a Melitza (advocate) for her family.

The Menorah’s Glow: Consistency in Spreading Torah Light

Parashat Beha’alotcha opens with the Mitzvah of lighting the Menorah in the Mishkan. Our Sages teach that the flame must rise steadily on its own — "she’t’hei ha’she’hevet oleh mei’ei’leha." This symbolizes the light of Torah, which, once ignited, must burn strong and steady.

Just as we light the Menorah with care, so too must we put consistent effort into Torah learning. When understanding “clicks,” it’s like a rising flame. Our obligation isn't only to learn but to spread Torah’s light, enabling others to connect independently.

This concept is reflected when Moshe appoints 70 elders who share his spirit of prophecy — like lighting 70 candles from one flame. Teaching Torah doesn’t diminish our own connection; it amplifies our light and growth.

The Spies’ Journey: How Perspective Shapes Reality

In Parashat Shlach Lecha, the spies’ mission teaches us a powerful lesson: life is a matter of perspective.

The spies’ task to scout EretzYisrael was logical, reflecting our obligation of Hishtadlut — human effort combined with Hashem’s help. Yet, sending 12 princes was unusual. As Rabbeinu Bachya explains, each tribe sought to understand where it would settle, aligned with its unique strengths.

Hashem instructed them to only seek the positive side — “V’yaturu” implies seeking Yitron (benefit). Unfortunately, the spies returned with a negative, fearful outlook, focusing on giants guarding the land rather than its bounty.

The Midrash highlights their mistake: like Eshkol, an ally of Avraham who feared danger, the spies let fear cloud their judgment. This led to BechiyahshelChinam — baseless crying and ingratitude — a lesson that negative perspective can bring destruction.

Baking Challah: A Spiritual Recipe for Life

Hashem offers a remedy through the Mitzvah of Challah, teaching us how to live positively:

• Flour: Symbolizes sustenance, a gift from Hashem.

• Water: Represents steady Hishtadlut, continual effort.

• Eggs: Signify growth — striving to improve daily.

• Oil: Embodies light — our purpose to illuminate the world.

• Yeast: Points to rising — overcoming challenges with positivity.

Separating Challah symbolizes our faith in Hashem’s help to create a meaningful, joyful life.

The Thread of Techelet: Hope Amidst Challenges

The Tzitzit’s blue thread, Techelet, symbolizes the soul’s connection to Hashem and the struggle to maintain faith during difficult times.

Though the actual Techelet dye isn't available today, its symbolism teaches us the importance of authentic spirituality. The Kli Yakar explains Techelet as representing:

• The Sea (Yam): Consistent boundaries and YiratShamayim (fear of Heaven).

• The Sky (Rakia): Joyous light and Simcha (joy) in serving Hashem.

• The Throne of Glory (KiseiHaKavod): Spiritual elevation through combining fear and joy.

This teaches: one positive act or Mitzvah can lift you up when life feels overwhelming. "Lo taturu acharei libchem" — do not follow your heart’s negativity.

Never Give Up: A Story of Hope and Teshuvah

Finally, a story of inspiration from Yerushalayim:

Ofer, a young man from a secular family, became a BaalTeshuvah (returnee to Judaism) after army service. When he held a Siyum (completion celebration) and invited his Rabbi to his home, the Rabbi was surprised to meet Ofer’s secular father — who turned out to be the lost brother of the Rabbi’s own family, for whom they had prayed for years.

Ofer’s heartfelt DvarTorah (Torah discourse) marked a miraculous reunion. This story reminds us that our prayers and efforts, even if unseen, can bring miracles for future generations. Never lose hope.

Conclusion: Illuminate Your World with Faith and Effort

This week’s Torah lessons inspire us to:

• Embrace a positive perspective in all situations.

• Apply consistent effort (Hishtadlut) in our spiritual growth.

• Maintain strong Emunah in Hashem’s guidance.

• Share Torah’s light generously, multiplying its impact.

May we all be blessed with the ability to rise above fear, spread light, and never give up hope. Wishing you a beautiful Shabbos filled with light and blessings from Yerushalayim.

(2022)