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Jewish Thought was a joint project of the Orthodox Union (OU) and Yeshivat Ohr Yerushalayim. This journal was released in 5757/8.
THE PSALMIST AS BIBLICAL EXEGETE: A Study of Mizmor 104
Rabbi Hayyim J. Angel
Throughout the ages, Biblical commentaries have endeavored to reconcile the Torah’s two conflicting accounts of Creation. Perhaps the earliest attempt was made by King David himself in Mizmor 104. As Chazal tell us, “…Moshe recorded many actions cryptically. David stood up and explained them” (Shemot Rabba 15:22). Using the mizmor as his guide, the author reexamines Bereishit 1-2 and discerns a unifying focus on the purpose of Creation and man’s unique role therein.
“SHALL I WEEP IN THE FIFTH MONTH?”: Understanding Zecharia 7-8
Rabbi Gershon Porush
After the destruction of the first Beit Hamikdash, four fasts were established to mark the great loss to the Jewish people. Once the Jews were permitted to return to their land and rebuild the Temple, however, some questioned the need for continued mourning. The prophet Zecahria responded to this inquiry with five seemingly irrelevant prophecies. Painting a vivid picture of Jewish life during this time of transition, the author sheds light on the nation’s concerns and shows how the prophet in fact addresses them.
EZER K’NEGDO: Male and Female in the Image of the Lord
Rabbi Shalom L. Kohn
According to one view, man and woman were created attached then separated, in order that each might serve the other as an ezer k’negdo, a spiritual equal. Through penetrating analysis of the words of Chazal, the author examines the origins and essence of both genders, the relationship between them before and after the sin of Gan Eden, and the prospects of reattaining the spousal ideal of “one flesh.”
THE SECOND WARNING AT HAR SINAI: The Risk of Unfulfilled Expectations
Rabbi Dr. Kenneth Chelst
Three days before the giving of the Torah, Moshe cautioned Bnai Yisrael not to ascend Har Sinai. Immediately prior to the actual event, Moshe was instructed to issue a second warning. What is the nature of this second, ostensibly superfluous warning? Based on a comment made by R. Joseph B. Soloveitchik, z.l., concerning the end of Rambam’s Hilchot Meilah, the author demonstrates how the second warning differs dramatically from the first and contains a timeless message.
“YOSEF IS STILL ALIVE”: A Lesson in Divine Providence
Mois A. Navon
Separated from his beloved son Yosef for twenty two years, Yaakov Avinu could easily have despaired and blamed G-d for his seemingly cruel and lonely fate. Yet Yaakov and Yosef repeatedly affirm that whatever G-d does is for the best. The patriarch’s journey to Mitzrayim, the sacrifices he offers along the way, his subsequent prophetic dream, his sending Yehuda ahead to meet Yosef, and finally, the emotional reunion itself- as viewed by Chazal and other commentators- all serve as an object lesson in the benevolence of Providence.
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