A Better Gift

What type of gift is considered better than a glass of milk ?

See Kesubos 111b. 9 lines up

& see the Parsha 49 :12
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

The Secret Future

What great secret was Yaakov about to reveal to his family in verse 49:1 ?
And what is the Rambams unique way of explaining it in the laws of Shma 1:4 ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

The Key to Success

Why is the word for
Vayigash and the word
Goshna , where the Jews lived , the same word ?
Then when Yoseif reveals himself to his brothers he uses the word in
45:4.
Rav Nison Alpert explains that the idea is to come close to people that's how we can improve & work together to succeed & be worthy of Moshiach.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Planning Ahead

From where do learn that if you are planning a move or other changes that you should first prepare-
Where will I study Torah ?
Where will I pray ?
Where can I get kosher food ?etc


See 46:28
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Some Answers

7 represents Hashems system of creating the world in 7 days.

8 represents going beyond 7 , above the normal routine. Thus we merit Miracles.
Oil always rises to the top thus it also represents Miracles.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Why 8 days ?

Why is Chanuka for 8 days & why is a Bris also on the eighth day ?

Why is the word for oil - shemen the same rootword as shemoneh for 8 ?

How does oil connect to a Bris Milah ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

The BIG Question

Why didn't Hashem cause them to find a whole case of oil enough for 8 days ??
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Why Miracles ?

Hashem created a perfect world for which we need to thank Him always , Baruch Hashem. But why then do we sometimes need His miracles to help us ?
The Chovos Halvovos explains 3 reasons why most people are not so happy in this world :
1 - they are always looking for more , thus they miss the great benefits that surround them.
2- they get used to so much they fail to appreciate it.
3 - there are some things which seem negative & it takes wisdom to realize the benefits.

This is why Hashem invented miracles to wake us up !!

How does this apply to Chanuka ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Very Precious

The Rambam uses amazing words -
- this Mitzva is greatly cherished.
- one must be careful with it.
* to publicise the Miracles
* to increase praises to Hashem
* & thanks for the miracles He performed for us

Why is this Mitzva so special ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Fw: please review!

What do you think of this idea ?

Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.

www.GemsofTorah.com

-----Original Message-----
From: "chumie goldberger" <chumie@kars4kids.org>

Date: Wed, 5 Dec 2007 00:43:21
To:<rabbig@sakar.com>,"'Eli Mintz'" <eli@oorah.org>,"'tova'" <cohent@012.net.il>,"ari schwarzman" <grumpiness2@yahoo.com>,<judyherz2000@aol.com>,<Shalomblumberg@aol.com>,"'S&BK'" <bat7kol@gmail.com>,"'David'" <david@kerengroup.com>,"Akiva Beyman" <akiva25@yahoo.com>,"brocho erps" <rebishner@juno.com>,"Soffer" <benjysoffer@yahoo.com>,"Ziemba" <rabbiziemba@yahoo.com>
Subject: please review!


This is an idea that was brewing in my head for a long time. It sounds like a long shot but if there is a decent chance that it might work I think it's worth a try. Please forward it to bale batim that you know well for their feedback.
Please comment so we can perfect it before we publicize it!!
Thank you

Override the Mitzva ?

If someone has to choose between lighting a chanuka candle or lighting the a candle for Shabos which comes first ?
Rambam teaches that the Shabos comes first.
Why?
See the last halacha of Rambam Hilchos Chanuka.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Thanking for challenges

Why do we thank Hashem for the milchomos / battles ?

Rav Y. I. Sher explains that by providing us with challenges that we had to battle to overcome we had the opportunity to achieve greatness. Fighting for a cause strengthens ones resolve to hate the enemies of Hashem & all forms of wickedness.
This was a growth process which Hashem granted us for which we are grateful forever.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Renewal

The Bach explains that Chanuku was due to the Jewish Renewal of their enthusiasm for the Service of Hashem. Thus every year we need to utilize the Holiday to renew our focus & excitement for the privilege of being able to serve Hashem !

Ask yourself - in what way can I renew myself to begin Chanuka with the right attitude ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Seeing the Message

What are we supposed to see when we view Chanuka Lights ?

We are not allowed to use them for our purposes such as to light up the room so what is the point ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

How to Speak

We learn from Hashems Torah how to think & speak -
Yoseif said - its not me , Hashem will help Paroh 41:16
That which Hashem is doing He is showing Paroh , 41:25
Everytime Yoseif said something it was connected to Hashem !
How can we do this at least once a day ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Trusting in Hashem

When Yoseif asked someone to remember him , it was considered inappropriate because it says in Tehilim 40
Fortunate is one who places his trust in Hashem , not in ...
What is the end of that verse ?
What does it mean ?
& how may it apply to us ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

2 Chanuka Gifts

We have 2 Chanuka Gifts we would like to mail you & your family or Friends.

If you don't have yet

77 Mitzvos for Today
On the positive Mitzvos
And
194 Mitzvos
On the Prohibitions
Tells us what you would like & include an address & we will try to send them out.
Be well
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

The Question

What was the brief question which led to Yoseifs release from prison ?

In verse 40 :7 he asks
Why are your faces so sad today ? ?

This caring question made the difference. Why ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Rule for Gift Giving

A person should never give one child an extra gift over the other children because it may cause fights.
Where is this lesson found in Parshas Vayeshev ?

See Shabos 10b 12 lines up & Rambam Naachlos 6:13
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

How to Respond

How should a person respond to a request of a Parent ?

When Yaakov asked his son Yoseif to run an errand , his response was one word - hineini.
Why did he say that & what are the 2 meanings Rashi points out in 37:13. ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Key to Success

Yoseifs master saw that Hashem was with him.
39 :3

What did the non Jew see ?

See Rashi.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Daf Slogan

Kesubos 83b
9 lines down

A small vegetable today is better than a promise of a larger one for tommorrow !

Accept it NOW
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

100 times Thanks

How many times daily are we obligated to Thank Hashem ?

See Minachos 43b 5 lines up from bottom
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Mitzva to Care

Why did Yaakov remain alone ?
The Talmud Chulin 91a , 3 lines up , says that he went to retrieve some small containers. This teaches us to be careful not to lose or waste our things because we have to keep our distance from theft.
What does this mean ?
See Ben Yehoyada
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Where to keep your Money

The Medrash says that we learn from verse 32: 9 that a person should not keep all of his money in one place.

How do we see it ?
Does this mean also not to keep it in one Basket ? Yes
What about in one wallet , purse or in one pocket ?
See Bava Metzia 42 a
11 lines down.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

The Super Zone

Yaakov sent a message that
Garti - which Rashi in his second Pshat explains to mean , I fulfilled the Taryag Mitzvos.
But why is the word Garti used ?
Why not just say I have kept the Mitzvos ?

Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Great Name lessons

Each of the children of Yaakov is named with a name that carries many great lessons we need to learn & remember.

Reuven - Hashem is always watching us

Shimon - He also hears every word we say

Leivi - He is close to us

Yehuda - we need to always Thank Him

Dan - Hashem always Judges us based on how we behave.

We need to be prepared to stand in Judgement

Naftoli - We need to be stubborn to do what's right & to pray for Hashems help

Gad- good fortune - we keep on receiving great !enefits from Hashem.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

3 Basics

Gaze at 3 things & you will be able to protect yourself from sin -

* An Eye is Watching you

* An Ear is Listening

* & all your deeds are being Recorded.
Avos 2:1

How do these 3 principles correspond to the names of the first 3 Shevotim in this weeks Parsha ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Mitzvah from all 3

Which Mitzva was started by & taught by each of the 3 Avos ?

See Rambam ,Melochim 9:1
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

The Incredible Secret to Super Wealth

The secret is not just work hard , Rambam explains -
Work with all of your power ! As we learn from Yaakov Avinu hatzadik.
Why is this the Super Key ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

One Stretch- Riddle

Why are there no pauses throughout Parshas Vayeitzei ?

See the first Baal Haturim
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

3 Ways to Grow

Rashi ,30:8 - explains the name Naftoli in 3 ways
* to connect

* to persist with stubborness

* to Pray
What is the link between these 3 interpetations ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Worse than Murder

What could be worse ?

Shaming someone in public.

In what sense is it worse ?
That the person can lose his portion of Olam Habo !
How can we understand the concept of this idea ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

The salt / wealth connection

Why did Eisov ask his father , how does one give Maaser from salt ?
The daf Kesubos 66b , 10 lines up , teaches us how to "salt" ones wealth so that it endures -
*keep on giving to Charity that is the the secret to preserving money.
Why is salt used as the metaphor ??
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Answer

One of the reasons for the names of the Avos -

1 - Avraham - Father of nations he lived for Chesed thus giving life & insight to all.

2- Yitzchok - Father of service taught how to serve Hashem with Joy.

3 - Yaakov - Father of Torah
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Seeing the Humor

Why is Yitzchoks name the word for Laughter ? ( Why is that such a meaningful Jewish name for one of the greatest Jews in History ?)

No kidding
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

The need for Prayer

Why did Hashem arrange it that the Avos had difficulties with having children ?

The Talmud Yevomos 64 a ,5 lines up , explains because Hashem wanted them to pray.

What does that mean ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Five Crimes

The Talmud , Bava Basra 16b , 12 lines up , says that Eisov transgressed 5 sins on that day.

- a form of immorality
- Murder
- to deny the Essential Truth
- to deny Techiyas hameisim
- & to shame the privilege of the firstborn
Which of these does the Torah mention openly ?
Which is the worst & why ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Mitzva Themes - Toldos

- People need to pray to merit having Children
-The difference - Yaakov would sit & study Torah

- A Mitzva to live in the right place
- Peace treaty
- Blessing ones Children
- Tasty food leads to heartfelt Blessings
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Code 52

Hashem blessed Avraham with everything , 24:1.
Rashi says the Gimatriah of bakol is a son - 52.
But why dosent the Torah just say that he was granted a son ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Speak First

Why did Eliezer insist
I will not eat until I speak first , 24:33. ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Good Years

What does Rashi mean that all of Sarahs life was equally good , weren't there some years of suffering ?

See 23:1
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Housekeeping

What are the 7 household chores that were customarily performed by Women ?

See Mishna , Mesechta Kesubos 59b.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Best Test

What is the best type of Shidduch test and why ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Mitzva Themes for Parshas Chayei Sarah

1- Count Your days to utilize them all properly
2- preparing & buying a place for Burial
3- Finding a Shiduch
4- Learning even from the servants of the Avos
5- Avraham has more children
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Mitzva Themes of Parshas Vayera

1- Helping Visitors

2 - Praying for Others

3 - Destruction of the Wicked

4- Dealing with Challenges to a Spouse

5- Challenges in Raising Children

6 - Negotiating a Peace Treaty

7- The Greatest Test - Akeida

* these are 7 Mitzva themes we learn about this week.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

When to Run

Where do we see that one should rush to catch a customer & then rush again to serve them ?
& how can we apply this lesson in our daily lives ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

3 Tongue Questions

Why are all the other organs of the body in an upright posture but the tongue is in a laying position ?
Many organs are on the outside but this is in the mouth ?
Why are there 2 barriers surrounding the tongue ?

These 3 questions are all in the Talmud Erchin 15b , 8 lines down.
One answer for all...
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Thought Question

What would we hope to be doing at the moment Hashem might stop by to visit us ?

See 18:1
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Hidden Agenda

What might be Avraham Avinu s hidden reason for why he gave every geust the tastiest cut of tongue meat ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Choosing a Menu

If you have all the choices possible , what is the best type of meat you should serve your geusts ??
See Rashi 18:7
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Quiz Question

Who was the first convert to Judaism in History ?

See Chagiga 3a , 17 lines up from the bottom. & the Tosfos.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Giving a Tenth

Who was the first in history to give Maaser , a tenth to charity ?
Rambam- it was Yitzchok
Raavad - no , it was Avraham

What is the meaning of this dispute ?
See Rambam , Melochim ch. 9:1 & the Kesef Mishna.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Tests & Miracles

What is the link between a test & a miracle ?
Why is the same hebrew word Nes , a miracle & nisoyon , a test ?
We also have the same rootword for
To flee - Nos
Because we should try to avoid tests & we should not rely on miracles.
??
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Challenges , large & small

* The Torah says once by the Akeida that Hashem was testing Avraham.

* The Mishna , Avos ch. 5 , says that Hashem tested Avraham 10 times.

* The Sefer Mesilas Yeshorim says that every thing in this world is a test.

How do we reconcile these 3 sources ???
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Going Places

Why does Hashem instruct Avraham to go away from his land , why couldn't he become greater where he was ?

See Avos 4:14 the Mishna which begins - Rebbi Nehorai said ...
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

3 types of Vision

What are the 3 reasons why Sarah was called Yiskoh & how are they linked together ?

See Rashi 11:29
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Speech Lessons

What is better to say
Not good
Or
Bad ?

The answer can be derived from Parshas Noach 7:8 as we learn in
Pesochim 3a , 12 lines up from the bottom.
See also Divrei Hayomim 1:9:20
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Mazel Tov

If you are in the area this evening please join us for a Lchaim
Engagement of our son
Kalman to
Bracha Finklestein
At Keser hall
4712 12 av
Bklyn N. Y.
Between about 8- 10. Pm.
May we always share Simchos together & rejoice with Hashem ...
Moshe & Chana Beila Goldberger
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Always with Love

How can Beis Din put someone to death in a loving manner ?

See Kesubos 37b
16 lines up from the bottom.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Finding Favor

What is the secret by which we can find favor in Hashem s eyes ?

Noach found favor.
Noach means to be restful. He had the menuchas hanefesh , peace of mind by trusting in Hashem. When we trust Him , He will care for us.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Finding Favor

What is the hint from Noach s name that he would merit to find favor in Hashems eyes ?

Hint - study the 2 letters of his name from all angles.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Looking Ahead

What was the name of Avraham Avinu s mother & what did she have in common with haman s mother ?

See Bava Basra 91a , 8 lines up from the bottom & please tell us the lesson you learn.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Mitzva Count & Parsha Summary- Breshis

* How Hashem created the world in 6 days & then rested on the Seventh.
# How Hashem created the first Man & Woman
* The first 2 children Kayin & Hevel
* the First Mitzva to have children.
# The first 10 generations in history.
- Noach & his family.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Thoughts of Joy - Chag Someach

One of the lessons from the 4 species
Why are they all different ?

One is tall & thin , the other is shaped like a lemon.
One has leaves shaped like eyes the other is shaped like lips ?
The lesson is each person is also unique. Learn to develop your own potential to serve Hashem with the abilities He implanted in you & then you will be truly happy.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Sleeping in the Sukka

Its brought down that one should not eat much before Sukos in the afternoon, so that you should have a good apetite for the Mitzva at nite.
What about regarding sleep.?
Should we say , don't nap before Yomtov so that you will sleep better in the Sukka ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

How is it ?

Is it possible to be eating in a kosher Suka on Yomtov
& yet the person is considered doing an issur & it is as if he is not eating in a suka ?

See Rambam Hilchos Suka 6:8
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Food for Thought

This Yom Tov of Sukkos corresponds to the Clouds of Glory Hashem provided for us for 40 years in history.
Why do we have a holiday for this glorious miracle but not also to remember the miracle mann food & the miracle rolling stone , water supply ?
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Time to Move

Why is the concept that defines the difference between our homes & the Sukah ?

See one line in Mesechtas Sukah daf 2 a , 10 lines up from the bottom.

Clue - our home is defined by a 3 letter word ,
Our Sukah is defined by a 4 letter word.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Guard your Mouth

There are 2 principles -
A - never mention a possibility of something going wrong for someone
Because Hashem may cause your words to come true.
Kesubos 23a
B- don't open your mouth for the satan

The question is when do we apply rule *A* and when rule *B* ?

See Moed Katan 18a the top Tosfos & the Maharsha.
Either way we must be careful before speaking. Words are not cheap , they may be very costly. Ask a lawyer for his rates.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Daf Question - Kesubos 22b top line * How many Times ?

When you learn a new Torah insight how many times should you review it in order to follow the method of the great Sage Shmuel ?

See below

40 times
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Riddle for the day after

What Mitzva do we wish we would never have to do again ?

See below

Teshuva
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Riddle for the day after

What Mitzva do we wish we would never have to do again ?

See below

Teshuva
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Don't Forget

Spiritual C. P. R.

Charity
Prayer &
Repentence

Teshuva - tefila & tzedaka.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Misconception

Rambam Teshuva 7:4
Don't think that one who sinned can not become truly righteous. It is not so.
One can become beloved & cherished by Hashem as if he had never sinned ! Plus you get great Rewards for repentance.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

3 Reasons for Mitzva Eating

Eating the Seuda of the day before Yom Kippur is considered as if one fasted for two days - Rosh Hashana 9a.
Why is it so significant ?
Rabeinu Yonah S.T. 4:8 explains

- To show our joy at the arrival of the Day of Atonement.
- to show our joy for the Mitzva of Yom Kipur.
- to eat well so that we will have the energy
*to increase our prayers on y. K. &
* to focus on all of the steps of Teshuva.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

W. 63- My needs

We thought of a new invention you may be interested in developing & marketing.
Consider a regular chair that has an added feature you can press a knob & it turns into a rocking chair.
Our Creator has built in such a feature in every human being - you can sit or stand in one posture or you can choose to sway & rock or shuckle at any speed you desire.
Your body can become its own rocking chair at your convenience.
We do this at times while we pray without even realizing it.

Furthermore , we have a built in shtender feature when we want to hold a siddur or Sefer - our arms lock at the elbows & the sefer is just right for reading. It is also adjustable with flexibility at the wrists. Baruch Hashem.
Hashem has provided us with all of our needs , includes so much.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

W. 62 - Solid Ground

We say a daily blessing to thank Hashem for providing us with a solid earth platform to live on & work with.
There are many forms of coverings that we should include in our heartfelt thanks -
* the soft grass is a gentle cushion - ths same with imitation grass : carpets
* the highways / roadways smooth for driving
* sidewalks for comfortable walking
*fancy wood flooring
* tile floors , cement etc
* We even have bridges that are obviously over water to help us focus on thanking Hashem for providing a platform over water. Baruch Hashem.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Did You Know ?

One of the unique links to Yom Kippur is
The eighth test of Avraham Avinu his Bris Milah whivh took place on that special day.
Each year Hashem takes his merit into account to helps us atone & merit forgiveness.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Amazing Story

You don't want to miss this one in the Mishpacha ,family weekly.
Pg 52.
A secular journalist gets an assignment to attend an Arachim seminar & write an expose on the way they seem to "brainwash " people.
This top reporter gets hooked on the truths of the Torah , becomes religious & writes a book about his experience.

( If you cannot get a copy of the story , send us your address & we will try to mail you a copy. )
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Kesiva vechasima Tova

We wish you all a happy & blessed new year in every way.
Please consider sharing with us your ideas on hoW to improve oneself for the coming new year.
We also request that you consider contributing to our cause.
We are about 5000 short of our budget now , & you may be looking to distribute your surplus Maaser funds before the new year.
You can send to
Yeshiva Fund
Box 82
S. I. N. Y. 10309
Thank you
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Wonders 60 - Released from Prison

The Talmud explains that the ability to sit up , requires a daily blessing.
But what are saying ?
Who is being untied , released ?
From chains , prison ?
We should not take our ability to move & sit up for granted.
It is as if Hashem is untying us & energyzing us every time we move. Baruch Hashem.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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Wonders 59- Blessing for Clothing

Why is the blessing for clothing so significant that it follows that of the eyes according to ashkenaz & that of standing upright , according to Sefarad ?
Why do we wear clothing in general , are we ashamed of the magnificent unique body Hashem has provided us with ?
The answer is that clothing are much more meaningful than the appearance they portray. They serve to remind us of who we are. We are not a body that contains a soul , rather , we are a SOUL that has a body as its container.
Your car is not you
Your clothing is not you
Your home is not you.

We need to thank Hashem for our clothing , home , a car etc , but not to lose sight of thanking Him for the ikor , our Soul.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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Secret Function of Fingers

Daf 5b of Kesubos teaches the secret function that Hashem intented us to use our fingers.
??
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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W. 58 - Another Level

When we consider the ability to open our eyes , there are limitations & challenges at times such as blind spots or color blind.
There is another level that has been linked to the plague of Darkness in the Torah , Shmos 10:23. It says that it was so dark that the Egyptians could not see each other.
A person could not see his brother. !
This can apply in many ways when we fail at times to see each others needs with sufficent concern.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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W. 57 - Open Eyes

When a person knows who he is he is ready to open his eyes to see with inner vision. Pokeiach , means not only to open , but to be clever with an insightful mind & heart.
The Talmud , Nedarim 64b teaches that a sightless person is considered as dead. Why is that ?
Also, why do we group together a poor person , blind , leper & childless , Hashem should save us from all 4 ?
This has been explained that all 4 are limitations which restrict a persons free will causing him to lose out on Mitzva opportunities.
Thus in the morning we take stock of our good fortune to thank Hashem for the great gifts that He bestows on us daily.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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Did You Know ?

* Today is the day you can begin the great study of
Mesechtas Kesubos with thousands of Jews all over , with the Daf Yomi program. ?

* There was a time in History when every first marriage would be on wednesdays , while a second marriage would take place on a thursday. See first Mishna in Kesubos.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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Wonders 56 - Double Thanks

A Man says - thanks for who I am.
A Woman says - thanks for making me as He desired.
Obviously , they both need to thank Hashem for making them who they are & for the gift of a spouse.
If we were all the same we would not get the entire message. Baruch Hashem now we realize that a man has more Mitzvos including the one to study more Torah. For that he must be grateful & thank Hashem daily.
She , on the other hand , has more responsibilities to inspire her husband & her children to become great in Hashems service.

For example , Rebbe Akivas wife gets all the credit for motivating him to dedicate himself to becoming so great. And he gets for following through with his persistance to develop his greatness for 24 years in Yeshiva.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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Mitzva Count - Haazinu / Zos Habracha

There are no specific Mitzvos , in general
- We have the fourth of the 10 Songs of history, which Moshe Rabeinu taught the last day of his life.
- We must keep the Torah ... It is like Rain.
- We must appreciate & praise Hashem
- His ways are just.
- We have freewill to choose to serve Hashem
- Remember all of Hashems kindnesses to you.
- Hashem has a system of rewards & punishments

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Zos Habracha

* Moshe blesses all the Jews
* He praises them.
* He praises Hashem.
* he passes away on Har Nevo by a kiss of death from Hashem.
* Moshe Rabeinu was the greatest prophet in History
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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Mitzva Count - Nitzovim / Vayelech

There are no specific Mitzvos in Nitzovim.
In general we have
- A Covenant with Hashem to keep all of the Mitzvos
- The teaching of Teshuva - when we repent Hashem will help us
- The Torah is accessible to every Jew
- The Torah is the key to all benefits in this world & in the World to come.

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The last two Mitvos are in Vayelech
- To gather all Jews once in 7 years after the Shmita year , on the second day of Sukkos to hear parts of the Torah at a Hakhel program.

- Every Jewish male should write his own Sefer torah.
This applies also to writing & aquiring other Seforim to own & use.
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Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
www.GemsofTorah.com

Wonders 55- Secret of the Nose

Why is a nose called Chotem which is also the same root word for Chet - which refers to a sin ?
The word chut for thread is also of the same root.
The Gemara in Sukah explains that a sin begins as a small thread to tempt a person.
The essence of the word chet means to miss the goal , thus a nose is the center & the most prominent feature of the face. To identify a person , the daf Yevomos 120 a. Explains the nose must be included.
A sin is missing our purpose in life , thus it is like cutting off ones nose. Teshuva is the process of restoring & completing ones perfection.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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W. 54 - Freedom

How much free time do we actually have to serve Hashem every day ?
We thank Hashem for not having been created as a slave in the days when that was prevalent. Every person has unique opportunities that we need to appreciate & utilize fully.
We are not avodim to people because we were granted the distinct privilege to being servants of Hashem which is true greatness.
Every morning we to remind ourselves of this greatest of goals to strive to devote our time , at least part of it , to serving Hashem with total devotion.
As we study Hashems wonders all around us & realize how Hashem is always doing everything for us , we need to reciprocate to go all out or in to serve Him !
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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W. 53- blessing 2 -A Chosen Person

After we notice the magnificent daytime & thank Hashem for it , we start thinking about who we are & how fortunate it is to be chosen.
Now again we realize that Hashem created two types of people those who are obligated to keep the 7 Mitzvos & those who have 613.
Those who have 613 are compared to one who won a unique lotterry to receive 613 glorious mansions all over the world , expenses included. We are priviledged & entitiled to enjoy each Mitzva opportunity to enhance our lives with benefits galore.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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Marriage Secret - daf 118b - Benefit of togetherness

It is better to be together , rather than being alone.
- Even if he is small as an ant.
- Even if he does not have a great job & cannot provide much.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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Secret of Daf 117a -Yevomos- the Heart Mirror

How can you get someone to like you ?
By generating love for them in your heart , their heart will reciprocate. Based on Mishlei 27:19
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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W. 52 - Counting our Blessings - 1 - Notice the Difference

Our Sages have taught us the system of saying 100 blessings daily in order to train us to learn to appreciate the Wonders of Hashem that envelope us on all sides.
Let us study the 15 morning blessings to dive into this program.
- 1 *
Day & night
If it was always daytime we would take it for granted & fail to appreciate it. Thus Hashem does us a favor by making it dark every 12 hours so that we wake up in the morning & exclaim - thanks for the gift of Daylight !
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The same applies to summer & winter & many other such blessings in life.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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W. 51 - The Thumb Lesson

Why does the thumb seem to be shorter than the other fingers yet it is thicker & to the side ?
When you lift something with one hand we see that the thumbs place is to oppose the other 4 fingers thus it is thicker. It also becomes longer to match the size of all of the other fingers.
One of the lessons this arrangement serves to highlight is how Hashem provides people with compensation. When they may be handlcapped in one area , Hashem provides other areas of qualities to compensate. Baruch Hashem
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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Wonders 50 - Open & Close

Why did Hashem design our hands with an open & close feature , but it is not that way with our feet ?
The fingers were designed to serve open like a fork or closed as a spoon , or cupped as a cup or bowl. The feet however are for walking or standing thus they don't need such a feature.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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W. 49 - At your Fingertips

Why did Hashem design each persons fingerprints with a unique personal pattern ?
- is it so that we should be able to identify ourselves to know who we are ?¥
- maybe so that we can check the records of criminals to determine whether or not we are on the wanted lists ?€

The basic reason for the texture of fingerprints is to enable a person to have a better grip & traction.
The profound reason is that our Sages teach
Fortunate is the person who comes to the World to Come with his Torah Study in his hands.
Pesochim 50a. Rabeinu Chananel explains the word - in his hands, that every Torah lesson has to be developed & translated into Action.
Thus Hashem gave us each unique fingers to symbolize our mission to develop our unique potential for our way of doing things with our Neshamas hallmark on it.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.

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Mitzva Count - Ki Sovoi

There are 6 Mitzvos

- To recite 6 verses of Thanks when bringing the first fruits donation of Bikurim.

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4 on how to declare , at the end of the 4th & 7th year , that we took care of our contributions.

- The declaration
- I did not eat any Maaser Sheini when in mourning
- & not while Tomay
- & not to use it for caring for a deceased

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* Follow in Hashems ways. To be kind , generous , humble , etc.
Now may be a good time for a gem of Torah study.
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