There's a classic Jewish joke about an elderly Jewish man who is run over. He’s lying in the street when the paramedics arrive. As they load him carefully onto the stretcher, one asks, “Are you comfortable?" He replies, “Thank G-d, I make a living."This week we begin the second book of the Torah: Exodus. Though living in Egypt, oppressed and spiritually far from the Holy Land, Jacob and his family, the forebears of the Jewish nation - and the generations following - all made a living. They made a life for themselves by continuing to study the Torah and the Jewish traditions. In fact it states that in the merit of them not changing their names, clothing and language our forefathers were redeemed. But, shining through them all, is the tribe of Levi whom bring forth Moshe Rabbeinu occupying themselves with spirituality and Torah study.
Fast forward to 2007. We may not be in Egypt, but we're definitely not in the "Holy Land" yet. However, we can still live the good life, by studying Torah.
Two exciting options out there are the newest upcoming courses from JLI, The JLI 10 week Parsha series: Birth on the book of Exodus and the Kabbalah of Character, which promises to be a highly fascinating and exciting 8 weeks. Additionally, you can study online, choose from over thirty classes weekly, or contact us and we'll schedule something.
Looking forward to seeing you at the JLI.
Good Shabbos!
Rabbi Chaim
ChabadTexas.org Editor
ChabadTexas.org Editor