VAYALECH

Always Remember

The portion of Vayalech is the shortest portion in the Torah. Less is usually more - and this is no exception as the portion is filled with energy and Light. Moses announces to the people that he will not travel into the land of Israel and passes the leadership to Joshua in anticipation of his passing. It is clear to Moses and G-d that the people will eventually forget about the miracles they experienced on their journey from slavery in Egypt to Israel and the importance of following the path and wisdom of Torah. In order to make sure they - and we, always remember, there are three distinct ways set forth in Vayalech. First, the mitzvah of Hak'hel - "to gather", is set forth. Every seven years during the holiday of Sukkot, the entire nation of Israel should gather in the Holy Temple and the "king" should read to them from the Torah. The title of "king" can be interpreted to mean the political or spiritual leader, a person that has the attention of the people and able to make an impact. Second, G-d instructs Moses to write the Song of Ha'Azinu, which is to be taught to everyone so that the song is a witness and form of remembrance of G-d. Lastly, we read about the final positive commandment of the Torah, to scribe a Torah scroll - also as a witness for G-d. The key message for us is the importance of remembering to choose the Light and the positive commandments of the Torah. By taking the higher road and following the precepts and wisdom of the Torah, we can bring infinite blessings and protection to our lives. If we forget about these teachings and wisdom, there is the chance, G-d forbid, that we fall off the path and limit ourselves and our potential. rent and child.

Shabbat Shuva

This week's Shabbat is called Shabbat Shuvah, the Shabbat of return. It is named from the first word of the haftarah reading (Shuvah) which means to return, and because it occurs during the Ten Days of Repentance between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. During this ten day period, we are able return to the Light / G-d / Hashem through self-examination in order to improve our ways and personal conduct for the upcoming year. On this Shabbat, one should concentrate entirely on Torah and reflect on repentance to attain forgiveness for negative behavior that may have been engaged in throughout the year.