The fast of the 10th of comes a week after we finish celebrating Hanukah. This is to teach us that the Hasmoneans lost sight of the reason for the war against the Hellenists. Over the generations they became Hellenists. When we lose sight of the goal we lose all.
-
Hanukah Saved Civilization
Hanukah saved what was to become Western Civilization. In the Greek and Roman worlds human life was cheap. Mistreatment of slaves was normal. In the Jewish world it was the exact opposite.
-
United We Stand
In the end of this week’s portion the brothers are united in their love of one another just as the five Hasmonaean brothers were united in the story of Hanukah.
-
Hanukah and Purim
Why do we say Hallel on Hanukah bur not Purim? What is the difference between the two festivals?
-
The Truth About Hanukah
Hanukah is a celebration of the victory of a cultural war against the Greek culture. The Syrian Greeks were not interested in killing Jews, just Judaism.
-
God’s Hand in the World
The story of Hanukah seems natural but it shows how God’s hand is in the world guiding the events that occurred.
-
Rely on God, Not Men
Joseph relied on the butler to remember him to Pharoah. The butler promptly forgot about him. This was to teach that we have to rely on God and not humans to achieve our goals.
-
Morality Has To Have A Source
When Joseph was confronted by Potifer’s wife he realized that Jacob would not approve of immorality. He based his morality on what he learned from his father.
-
Leaders Need a Moral Compass
The reason that Judah became a great leader was that he had a moral compass. And when he was wrong he admitted it.
-
Leadership Has to Be Earned
Reuben should have been the leader of the brothers but failed. He meant well but was lacking in judgement. Judah will become the leader due to his judgement.