When the Torah describes the kindling of the menorah in the Temple, a nuance in the text leads commentators to determine that technically the menorah may be lit by anyone, even a regular (non-Kohen) Israelite. The lesson typically derived from this is that when it comes to lighting up the world, the task can be done by anyone; it is not limited to rabbis and sages.
But an additional nuance in the text teaches us that although the actual kindling may be done by anyone, the preparation of the menorah — filling the oil, twining the wicks, and so on — had to be done exclusively by a Kohen.
What does that mean for us? While everyone can and is encouraged to teach Torah to others, the substance of what is being taught must be grounded and based on legitimate sources. So although teaching is not limited to rabbis, we must always ensure that what we are transmitting to others is based on authentic Torah interpretation.
See below and RSVP for the upcoming monthly Lunch & Learn on the Evolution of Torah until today!
And the more we teach and share legitimate light with others, the brighter the world will become, in preparation for the ultimate kindling of the menorah, in the third Temple. May it happen very soon!
Good Shabbos!
Rabbi Chaim & Chanie
UPCOMING YJP HOUSTON EVENTS
- Friday, July 5, 7:30 pm - All-American BBQ July First Fridays – Join Young Jewish Professionals for All American Themed BBQ Shabbat Dinner at YJP Houston - where spirits run high! 7:30 pm – Friday Night Services, 8:08 pm - Candle Lighting, 8:30 pm – BBQ Shabbat Dinner. $20 until Thursday, $36 after. Use promo code: advance www.yjphouston.org/july4
- Sunday, July 28, 4-6 pm - FCYA BBQ & Drum Circle - Friendship Circle Young Adults where young professionals and adults with special need enjoy time together as friends!
UPCOMING CLASSES AND LECTURES
- Shabbos, June 22, July 6, 13, 27, 9 am - Chassidus - Likkutei Torah
- Wednesdays, June 25, July 2, 30, 11 am - The Tanya
- Wednesdays, June 26, July 3, 8 pm - YJP Dinner, Class & Social
- Thursdays, June 27, July 4, 11, 8 pm - The Heart of the Prayer Book
- Tuesday, July 2, 12-1:30 pm - Evolution of the Torah: Transmission of Torah from Mt. Sinai until Today - At the monthly Lunch & Learn the community has an opportunity to enjoy an upscale lunch with like minded friends for a spirited class and discussion! RSVP https://forms.gle/szdra5faBYR1FUxh7
- Wednesdays, July 10, 17, 25 - YJP Dinner and Guest Rabbi Lecture Series
- July 10, 7:30 pm - Rabbi Sholem Vigler, The Heights - How Israel Wins: The Lubavitcher Rebbe's Vision for Achieving Lasting Peace
- July 17, 7:30 pm - Rabbi Eliezer Lazaroff, Aishel House - Judaism and Medicine: Torah's View on Health and Living
- July, 24, 7:30 pm - Rabbi Dovid Goldstein, West Houston - Rabbi Goes to Jail: Tales and Lessons Learned from Prison Chaplaincy
To be added to a reminder broadcast list, including status of each class, please reply to this email to subscribe
Mazel tov Elliot and Rachel Levine on the birth of a baby boy, Shimon Yisroel!
SHABBOS PARSHAS BEHAALOSECHA
FRIDAY, JUNE 21, 15 SIVAN
Mincha & Kabbolas Shabbos 7:30 pm
Shabbos Candle Lighting 8:08 pm
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner
SHABBOS, JUNE 22, 16 SIVAN
Chassidus at 9:00 am
Shacharis 10:00 am
Shabbos Kiddush and Farbrengen
Mincha at 2:00 pm
Ethics of our Fathers, Chapter 2
Maariv, Havdalla & Shabbos Ends 9:07 pm
Living Torah Video
SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 17 SIVAN
Shacharis 8:00 am
MON.-FRI,, JUNE 24-28, 18-22 SIVAN
Shacharis 6:45 am
Good Shabbos!