Fear and Love - Yirah and Ahava

Found 6 Search results

1. "I Have Formed You; You Are My Servant"

   Haftarot: Vayikra

   Rabbi Mosheh Lichtenstein

   The prophet describes the relationship between God and Am Yisrael in terms of a servant and master. Sacrifices are therefore necessary to enable the servant to stand before his master. The reason behind the redemption in the haftara is God's responsibility toward the nation as a master, who is obligated to care for his servants. The haftara ends with the prophet mocking idolaters who create their statues, and emphasizes God's role as a creator.

2. "Rejoice With Trembling"

   Haftarot: Toldot

   Rabbi Mosheh Lichtenstein

   The bible presents two models for the relationship between man and God. One parallels the relationship between a servant and his master, and the other is an intimate and loving relationship. The service of God is meant to include both models.

3. The Covenant of Love between God and Israel (Audio)

   Prof. Jonathan Grossman | 14 minutes

   This shiur discusses the nature of the covenant as expressed in Parashat Eikev. What is the meaning behind the aparent emphasis of the  juxtaposition of the wicked and idolatrous nations and the promise to the forefathers?

4. Israel's Return and God's Return (Audio)

   Prof. Jonathan Grossman | 12 minutes

   Why is parashat Nitzavim juxtaposed to a lengthy section of curses? Our parasha is a direct continuation of last parsha’s covenant, albeit providing another aspect. A novel element—teshuva—is presented here, even though it apparently deviates from the legal norms of a total and eternal commitment expressed in the forging of a covenant.

5. Avraham and the Command of the Akeida

   Rabbi Alex Israel | 33 minutes

   The Story of Akeidat Yitzhak (The Binding of Isaac) has been a troubling one for many. This shiur examines various approaches to the significance, challenge, and purpose of the command given to Avraham, comparing and contrasting this challenge with other ones Avraham faces. Avraham’s character and approach to Divine service and morality is brought into sharper focus.

6. Implications of the Akeida Part 6: The Sefat Emet on Yir'a vs. Ahava

   Rabbi Ezra Bick | 31 minutes

   We will begin by reflecting, evaluating, and developing an idea found in the commentary of the Sefat Emet to the story of the Akeida. Why does the Torah mention that Avraham saw the place from afar?  The Sefat Emet's answer is that the distance is not geographical, but rather refers to the gap  between Avrham’s own inner commitment, understanding, and attachment and the thing he was about to do. There is a tension between loving God and fearing God. Avraham, the prime example of one who worships God out of love, is ultimately praised at the end of this episode because it is now clear that he fears God, too. 

   A thought-provoking explanation of the view that God never wanted Avraham to offer Yitzhak as a sacrifice. is that Avraham was nevertheless meant to think that God was asking him to do it.

   Knowing that the strand of ahava (love) and yira (fear) are sometimes contradictory on a psychological level will help us commit ourselves to both – to do what we know is right - as we are "made in the Divine Image," but also to subject ourselves to the will of the Master of the Universe.