Rabbi Avi Billet
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There was no love lost between Yaakov and his father-in-law Lavan. Lavan criticizes Yaakov for having “stolen” his family, and Yaakov responds saying he had been cheated numerous times over a period of 20 years working for Lavan. more
The Torah describes one interaction between Avraham and Yishmael (his banishment in chapter 21), one interaction between Avraham and Yitzchak (the “Akedah” of chapter 22), and one interaction between Yitzchak and his sons in the blessing episode of chapters 27-28. From an objective perspective, judging only the human element without the divine instructions to listen to Sarah and to take Yitzchak to a mountain, Avraham’s parenting skills don’t pass muster. more
Since Monday of last week, I have read many articles, sermons, and even listened to some lectures online about “the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.” Most people, particularly those affected, are fairly sensitive to the realities, but no one can speak for another person’s devastation. Some had no damage, some had significant damage, some lost everything. Some lost loved ones, and those who were lost are obviously gone forever. Years ago, I heard a story about the Chafetz Chaim. One year, half of Radin burned down and those who were spared helped those who lost all. They rebuilt, and a little after the rebuilding was completed, the other half of Radin burned down. more
The “Binding of Isaac” is a defining chapter in the story of the Jewish people. It inspires much of our liturgy (High Holidays, etc.). In some respects it represents what it means to sacrifice for one’s children. In some of the darker annals of Jewish history, some took it as the inspiration to literally sacrifice their children as Jews to avoid death or the loss of Jewish souls at the hands of others. It is not for us to judge those who chose the latter path, but it is noteworthy that they viewed Avraham’s “sacrifice” as inspiration for such choices, even though Avraham did not ultimately harm his son. “The Akedah” has inspired millions of hours of study and discussion, as well as countless pages of analysis, feeding conversations that will continue forever. more
Over the last seven months, circumcision has appeared as a regular conversation topic in media outlets. Between metzitzah discussions, European nations becoming enlightened about circumcision and banning it (historians note that all that has changed in Europe, is that European anti-Semitism now comes in the guise of liberalism – to save the babies!), and the pro vs anti circumcision debate which continues to rage on in the blogosphere, there is no shortage of topics to be covered. more
“Hi, good morning, I just wanted to note the Oct 12th paper ‘The crouching sin,’ by Rabbi Avi Billet was outstanding, outstanding, loved it and spent the whole week talking about it, debating it, he’s wonderful, loved it, thank you. That’s it.” Editor’s note: It was delightful to have received this voice message, but the caller didn’t leave her name or her phone number. Please be back in touch. more
Of all the Biblical heroes, those we might call the “good guys,” Noach gets the worst rap. When we are first introduced to him, we are told he was a tzaddik (righteous man) “in his generation.” Rashi famously pounces on the added term, suggesting that he was a good guy in his generation alone, but had he lived in the generation of Avraham, he would not have been a person of significance. more
The stage is set. The first two sons of Man have brought their offerings to their G-d, and He has favored the younger’s dedication. The older brother is disheartened, and it shows on his face. more
The song of Haazinu is quite poetic, complete with imagery that invites the most lyrical interpretation. more
The Mechilta (and many other Midrashic passages) utilize the phrase “Imo Anokhi B’tzara” (Tehillim 91:15) to prove that G-d is not only pained by difficulties which affect the community (based on Yeshayahu 63:9), but is feeling the pain of the individual as well, as he or she is faced with personal trials and difficult times in life. more
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