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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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…
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…