by Shlomo Ressler | Aug 7, 2013 | 5:5-Parshat Shoftim, Devarim / Deuteronomy, Weekly Dvar
The Parsha says “what man is there that is fearful and fainthearted? Let him go and return to his house and not let him make the heart of his brethren faint as well as his heart.’” In addition to the three categories of men who were exempt from military service...
by Shlomo Ressler | Aug 7, 2013 | 5:5-Parshat Shoftim, Devarim / Deuteronomy
Aliya Summary: Although the Priestly families were divided into many shifts, each serving in the Temple in their designated turn, a Kohen always retains the right to come to the Temple and personally offer his personal sacrifices. This Aliya then contains prohibitions...
by Shlomo Ressler | Aug 6, 2013 | 5:5-Parshat Shoftim, Devarim / Deuteronomy
Aliya Summary: The Kohanim were chosen by G‑d to be His holy servants. They do not receive an inheritance (portion) in the Land of Israel, because “G‑d is their inheritance.” Instead, the Kohanim are the beneficiaries of various priestly gifts; selections...
by Shlomo Ressler | Aug 5, 2013 | 5:5-Parshat Shoftim, Devarim / Deuteronomy
Aliya Summary: Moshe instructs the Israelites to coronate a king after they enter Israel. A Jewish king may not amass an excessive amount of horses, wives, or personal wealth. The king writes for himself two Torah scrolls. One of them remains with him at all times...
by Shlomo Ressler | Aug 4, 2013 | 5:5-Parshat Shoftim, Devarim / Deuteronomy
General Overview: This week’s reading, Shoftim, addresses fundamental issues pertaining to the leadership of the Jewish people. It begins with a discussion regarding judges, and later discusses the concept of the kings, prophets, and the kohanim (priests). Many...
by Shlomo Ressler | Aug 24, 2012 | 5:5-Parshat Shoftim, Devarim / Deuteronomy
Aliya Summary: Before waging battle against an enemy in battle, we are commanded to make a peaceful overture. Only if the enemy does not accept the offer does battle ensue. In the battles against the Canaanite nations, if the enemy does not agree to the peace offer,...
