Subject: In Memory of Shmuel Leib ben Zvi (Lewis Berkin) & Baruch Yitzchak ben Yirmiyahu (Barry Pessin) Nachamu 5784 |
From: Heath Berkin <heath.berkin@gmail.com> |
Date: 8/16/2024, 10:50 AM |
To: Heath Berkin <heath.berkin@gmail.com> |
BCC: menachem@alonsystems.com |
This Shabbas is called Shabbas Nachamu because the Hafotrah we read begins with the words Nachamu, consolation. The prophecy we read about is a consolation the prophet Yosheyahu told to the Jewish People. After the three weeks, which began a period of mourning for the destruction of the Holy Temple which culminated on Tisha Ba'av, we begin a period of consolation.
The first words of the Haftorah state "my nation be consoled, says your G-d". The Sfas Emes explains that the verse is telling us how we should be consoled. We should understand the verse as saying "my nation be consoled", (by understanding) says your G-d", the way we can be consoled from this tragedy and any other kind of tragedy is my realizing says your G-d, Hashem was the one who orchestrated this to happen. When we understand that everything is from Hashem and we know that everything He does is for our good, then it gives us an entirely new perspective on any difficulty or (G-d Forbid) tragedy. This itself acts as our consolation.
May these words be a merit for a speedy recovery for Miriam bas Gittel.
Shabbat Shalom,
Heath