Holocaust

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1. Tehillim 107 - Yom Haatzmaut

   Rabbi Menachem Leibtag

   In Israel, Yom Ha'zikaron [Memorial Day] and Yom Ha'Atzmaut [Independence Day] are separated by a mere split second. It is precisely this proximity that gives extra meaning to both days. Our awareness that the dedication of those who fell made our independence possible gives us the strength to cope with the sorrow of Yom Ha'Zikaron. At the same time, our awareness of that terrible price, encourages not only to appreciate our joy on Yom Ha’Atzmaut, but also to strive to channel our independence in the proper direction.

        This contrast between sorrow and joy at a time of redemption is reflected in Tehillim 107.  It is the custom in Israel to recite that perek before davening Maariv on Yom Ha’Atzmaut.  The following shiur will analyze the internal structure of Tehillim 107, and will explain why it was chosen to be read on this day.

2. The Vision of the Dry Bones

   Dr. Tova Ganzel

   God’s status and His power stand at the center of Yehezkel's prophecy. The nation’s past, present and future is clarified by its relationship with God. Indeed, from the prophet's perspective it is altogether possible that not a single survivor of the nation will remain. Therefore, for the observer of the vision of the dry bones the outcome is not clear. The prophet therefore has no indication as to the future of these dry bones based on prior knowledge or principles such as the covenant, the merit of the forefathers, desecration of God’s Name, or the like. The answer will depend only on God’s own decision.

   The description in the book of Yirmitahu of human bones that are strewn outside of their graves expresses more than just the great number of deaths during the years of siege and destruction. The withholding of burial dishonors the dead, and the removal of bones from their burial place likewise shows contempt. In light of this, Yehezkel’s encounter with a valley full of bones may testify to the disgrace of the people, and not necessarily to its future revival. How will the situation develop?  That depends entirely on God.

   What unfolds is a slow process of rebirth that is realized in stages. Whether the description in the book of Yehezkel is of an actual occurrence or an allegory, it is clear that in the Jewish national consciousness, this prophecy remains timeless. For our generation, seeing the establishment and prospering of the State of Israel after the horror of the Holocaust, this consciousness of the redemption being bound together with the vision of dry bones is greatly amplified.

    

3. Rav Soloveitchik's Interpretation of Sefer Iyov

   Rabbi Yair Kahn | Hour and 10 minutes

   Sefer Iyov is one of the more challenging books in Tanakh. What is the meaning of the conclusion and how does it solve the difficult problems raised throughout the sefer? This lesson focuses on Rav Soloveichik’s interpretations in his works “Kol Dodi Dofek” and “Out of the Whirlwind” and deal with the themes of evil, suffering, Divine justice, and the lessons we can learn after the Holocaust. 

4. Sefer Zekharya: Optimistic Visions

   Rabbi Tzvi Sinensky

   Yehoshua, the Kohen Gadol is a survivor who has returned to lead his people in the service of the Temple that had been destroyed. Despite his imperfections, Yehoshua is appointed to a prominent position due to this status as a survivor.

   Like Yehoshua, the people are perhaps not fully innocent and worthy. Still, just as in the high priest’s poignant story, they are all deserving of consolation after the trauma they have endured. Therefore, God will ensure the success of their endeavors.

   As in the imagery of the rock, the seven-pronged menora indicates that God’s providence will ensure the success of the rebuilding. Once again, as opposed to Haggai, Zekharya’s message is not an instruction to build, but that the project will succeed. Despite its humble start, no one should “scorn a day of small beginnings.” The method for achieving those steps is not by military might, but through spirituality.

   The olive trees would appear to signal the durability of Zerubavel and Yehoshua’s leadership. God’s eyes will watch over the community and its leaders, ensuring the survival of the imperiled community.