(2009/5769)
This week’s Parashah serves as an introduction to all of Jewish law. Topics ranging from understanding the scope of the sin of stealing to the permissibility of killing in self defense are all discussed. In fact, the topics that are discussed in this week’s Parashah have a myriad of practical modern day applications. Rav Berel Wein notes that we as Jews, living in modern times, are constantly faced with complex questions pertaining to the Halacha in this week’s Parashah. To live successful lives as Bnei and Bnot Torah, we need to fully understand each and every Halacha presented in this week's Parashah. We can not, however, simply learn about these Halachot in theory, but we must transfer them into contemporary cases to relate to our daily lives.
When Bnei Yisrael were asked to accept the Torah at Har Sinai, they answered “Naaseh VNishma” “We will do and we will listen” (24:7). Bnei Yisrael realized that simply listening and learning about the commandments would be insufficient. Rather, they must actually perform actions in order to succeed as Torah Jews.
-Authors note: This Tuesday, February 24, 2009, marks the one year anniversary of the massacre of the students from Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav. In commemoration of the Yartzheit, a joint effort has been made by Yeshivot from across the globe to complete all of Shas Gemara. Students in each of the participating Yeshivot understand the importance of using their Torah learning, not just to sit and learn, but to be active in affirming the perseverance of Torah. May the Neshamot of the eight Kedoshim murdered in the attacks have an Aliyah in honor of the Siyum that will occur next week.