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“And Di Zahav.” (1:1)

The  Sifri adds a very  notable explanation to the  above words: “And a sufficient amount of gold for  the Mishkan, and a sufficient  amount of gold  for the  Golden Calf.”  One who  is a  fickle and crooked person steeped in hypocrisy  is worse than  one who is fully wicked. We  find that  Eliyahu Hanavi told the evil prophets of the Baal “How long will you continue to stand on both steps, if Hashem is G-d, then follow Him, if it is the Baal, then follow him.” Here is a clear illustration  that it is better  to  be  fully wicked  and…

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“How can I myself alone bear your trouble, your burden, and your strife.” (1:12)

  Rashi explains that the word “burden” indicates the blasphemous non-believers among the populace. Rabbi Nachman of Breslev Zt”l gives us to understand that one who does not believe in Hashem carries a mighty burden. The various questions for which he either does not seek, or will not accept any answer are burdensome, encumbering him wherever he may turn. The refusal to face certain realities because of foolish misgivings deprives a person of the sublime serenity which exists within those who truly believe in Hashem. Life with its various hardships is much easier for them to face. The various questions…

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“Do not attack Moab and do not provoke them to war.” (2:9)

The Talmud in Bava Kama (38a) states that Hashem spared the nations of Amon and Moav from certain destruction because of the two very special righteous women, Rus the Moabitea and Naama the Amonite who would descend from them. The Michtav M’eliyahu illustrates the concept of zechus avos (merits of ancestry) with the analogy of one who has a gold watch attached to a chain which is in turn attached to his garment. The chain, because it maintains the watch in its proper place, benefits its owner greatly. However, in its own right, it really has very little significance. Despite…

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