Chabad F R E E NYC

Шаббат Шалом❕️

This week’s Torah portion, Behaalotecha, opens with the lighting of the Menorah in the Temple. The Menorah carries a message that speaks directly to our lives today.

Each of us is guided by two powerful forces, our minds and our hearts. The mind helps us analyze and make sound decisions. The heart gives us passion and purpose, and the ability to care. Most of us naturally lean more toward one than the other. Some approach life through logic, while others are driven more by feeling.

The challenge isn’t to choose between them, but to learn how to bring them together.

Jewish tradition sees both intellect and emotion as essential parts of a meaningful life. In fact, the Talmud records a discussion about the positioning of the Menorah in the Temple that reflects this very idea. One view emphasizes the role of understanding and learning. Another highlights the importance of feeling and inspiration. While Jewish law ultimately places greater emphasis on study and understanding, both perspectives are preserved because both are true and necessary.

The Menorah itself was made of seven branches, yet it was one unified piece. In the same way, all people have different strengths and unique ways of connecting to Judaism and to G-d. Some connect through learning and prayer, others through community and kindness. What matters is that the light is shining together.

This is the enduring message of the Temple’s Menorah. A balanced life is not built on intellect alone or emotion alone. Real growth happens when the wisdom of the mind and the warmth of the heart illuminate each other.

Shabbat Shalom❕️

In today’s world, words are everywhere. People make promises and speak about big ideals, yet too often those words never become reality. That’s why the old saying remains so true: actions speak louder than words.

When people see someone genuinely helping others and living by their values, it leaves an impression. A person who gives their time and attention to others inspires the people around them.

This idea appears in the beginning of the Book of Numbers, when the Jewish people were counted in the desert. Each person was counted separately, then as part of a tribe, and finally as part of the larger nation. A strong community depends on the people who make it up. Every person brings unique value and every person matters.

There is another important detail in the story. G-d instructed Moses to include the leaders of the tribes in counting the people. The leaders personally took part in the census and were involved with every tribe, not only their own.

That is what real leadership looks like. Caring about people in a personal way and taking responsibility for others.

The tribal leaders understood that Jewish unity comes from genuine care for one another. Their involvement showed the people that every Jew matters and deserves attention and respect.

We often speak about unity and caring for others. The challenge is making those ideas part of daily life. Simple acts of concern and being there for another person can strengthen an entire community.

Shabbat Shalom!

To properly affix Mezuzahs to your doorposts you will need:

1. Kosher mezuzah scrolls, one for each qualifying doorway in your home or office.

2. Protective cases in which the rolled parchment scrolls are inserted (get a mezuzah scroll and case from our rabbi, by calling 718.SYNAGOGUE 📲 718.796.2464).

3. A measuring tape and pencil to mark the spot on the doorpost where the Mezuzah is to be affixed.

4. Hammer and nails, screws and a drill, or as a last resort, an industrial-strength glue or double-sided tape, with which to affix the mezuzah.