This week’s class is dedicated in honor of Chof Beis Shevat, the Yartzeit of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson of righteous memory.
By Rabbi Chaim and Moussia Goldstein and Family.
Before a person converts, he is told, “Being Jewish is difficult.” Afterwards, he is told, “Being Jewish is great!” What’s going on?
Lesson Contents:
A. It’s A Beautiful World
The opening line of the Rebbe’s Yud Shevat maamarim is G-d’s statement, “I have come to My garden.” (Source 1).
What is the meaning of this passage?
The Rebbe explains that from a rationalist perspective, the world seems to be a jungle, where things are getting worse from day to day. The message of the maamar is, “It’s G-d’s garden” — don’t be discouraged by the negativity; search for the positive, and you are sure to find it.
B. A World of Suffering
In this week’s Torah portion, we read about the first convert, Jethro (Source 2-3). The Talmud says that every convert must be warned — Jewish life can be very difficult (Source 4).
The Rebbe asks: If life is so difficult, where exactly is this garden?
The answer can be culled from the life of Maimonides. His “Guide to the Perplexed” states that a person must always be optimistic, but his own life story was one of tragedy, loss and suffering.
Clearly, there must be a way to combine to two extremes.
C. It’s All About Perspective
The answer is that it’s just a question of your own perspective. When you recognize that you are close to G-d, all suffering becomes irrelevant. If you earn a million dollars, the loss of a penny won’t bother you.
Jewish life has its hardships, but those pale in comparison to the fact that we are G-d’s chosen people.
Textbook & advertising material
SUPPORT OPTIONS
Do you enjoy Jewish Insights?
We are honored to provide this service to Shluchim free-of-charge. Please help us and be able to continue this great project.
- $18 – Suggested donation.
- Option: Please charge my card $18 weekly, for each lesson
Sponsor a lesson:
- $360 – Sponsor A Weekly Lesson in One Language (English or Hebrew).
- $650 – Sponsor A Weekly Lesson in both Languages (English & Hebrew).
Become a Partner:
- $1,800 – Partner of Jewish Insights
Click here to donate
Thank you for your support!