LIVING WITH MOSHIACH, Parshat Pinchas

B"H
LIVING WITH MOSHIACH
Weekly Digest About Moshiach

PARSHAT PINCHAS 5768
15 Tamuz, 5768
July 18, 2008


SPECIAL FEATURES:
1. A "Zalman Moment"
2. Laws of the Bais HaMikdosh
(The Holy Temple)

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5768

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THIS PUBLICATION IS DEDICATED TO THE REBBE,
RABBI MENACHEM M. SCHNEERSON
OF LUBAVITCH

"I BELIEVE WITH COMPLETE FAITH IN THE ARRIVAL OF THE MOSHIACH.

"AND THOUGH HE MAY TARRY, I SHALL WAIT EACH DAY, ANTICIPATING
HIS ARRIVAL." Maimonides, Principles of the Faith, No. 12

*********************
* TABLE OF CONTENTS *
*********************

* Introduction.
* The Weekly Torah Portion.
* The Rebbe's Prophecy.
* Exile Is But A Dream.
* A "Zalman Moment"
* Don't Give Me Your Attitude.
* Moshiach Matters.
* The Seventeenth of Tamuz.
* The "Three Weeks"
* Some Laws of the "Three Weeks"
* A Lesson From the "Three Weeks"
* Laws of the Holy Temple.
* Time for Unity; Time for Strength!
* A Call To Action.
* The Weekly Shabbat Calendar.
* "Let There Be Light" - The Jewish Women's Guide to Lighting
Shabbat Candles.
* Laws of Shabbat Candle Lighting for the Blind.
* Shabbat Candle Lighting Blessing.
* Moshiach Information Hotlines.
* Moshiach In The Air -- Electronic Media.
* Subscription Information for this Weekly Magazine:
Living With Moshiach.

****************
* INTRODUCTION *
****************

We are pleased to present, to the visually impaired and the
blind, the 586th issue of our weekly publication, Living With
Moshiach.

*

This week's issue of Living With Moshiach is dedicated in honor
of:

1. The second yahrtzeit of my dear and loving father, Horav
Schneur Zalman Halevi ben Horav Yitzchok Elchonon Halevi Shagalov,
who passed away on Monday, 21 Tamuz, 5766 (July 17, 2006). A
web-site has been established in his loving memory, at:
"http://www.torah4blind.org/rzs";

A Tribute is published below.

2. The fifth yahrtzeit of our dear friend and copy editor, Reb
Mordechai ben Reb Shaul Staiman, who passed away, on Tuesday, 22
Tamuz, 5763 (July 22, 2003).

Reb Mordechai Staiman was a very kind person, who gave
tirelessly from his time and effort for the success of our
organization "Enlightenment For The Blind," and this publication
"Living With Moshiach" in particular.

A web-site has been established in his loving memory and also
featuring the works of Reb Mordechai Staiman. You can find it at:
"http://www.torah4blind.org/staiman";

A Tribute is printed in Living With Moshiach, Vol. 438:
"http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5765/429-438.htm";

*

In this week's issue, we focus on the fast day of the 17th of
Tamuz, Sunday, July, 20.
*

Our sincere appreciation to L'Chaim weekly publication,
published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, for allowing us to
use their material.

Also, many thanks to our copy editor, Reb Mordechai Staiman, of
blessed memory ("http://www.torah4blind.org/staiman";), for his
tireless efforts.

*

It is our fervent hope that our learning about Moshiach and the
Redemption will hasten the coming of Moshiach, NOW!

Rabbi Yosef Y. Shagalov
Executive Director
Enlightenment For The Blind, Inc.
E-Mail:yys@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
3 Tamuz, 5768
Los Angeles, California

*************************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF *
* Horav Schneur Zalman Halevi *
* ben Horav Yitzchok Elchonon Halevi *
* Shagalov *
* Passed away on 21 Tamuz, 5766 *
* *
* Reb Dovid Asniel ben Reb Eliyahu *
* Ekman *
* Passed away on 5 Sivan - Erev Shavuot, 5765 *
* *
* Mrs. Devora Rivka bas Reb Yosef Eliezer *
* Marenburg *
* Passed away on the second day *
* of Rosh Chodesh Adar, 5766 *
* *
* AND IN HONOR OF *
* Mrs. Esther Shaindel bas Fraidel Chedva *
* Shagalov *
* * *
* Dedicated by their children *
* Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Yitzchok and Gittel Rochel *
* Shagalov *
*************************************************

***************************************
* THE WEEKLY TORAH PORTION *
* Adapted from the Works of the Rebbe *
***************************************

PARSHAT PINCHAS

This week's Torah portion is Parshat Pinchas. In it we read
about Pinchas, who in a burst of zealousness slew Zimri and the
Midianite woman with whom Zimri was consorting. The Talmud speaks
of "six miracles that were done to him [Pinchas]"; other sources
refer to 12.

It states in the Talmud, "He who sees Pinchas in a dream will
experience a wonder," upon which Rashi comments, "A wonder will be
done to him, as was done to Pinchas."

It is significant that our Sages use the word "wonder" rather
than "miracle," as the two terms are not quite synonymous:

A miracle means that the laws of nature are broken and
transcended. The "regular" structure of the universe is altered,
and a miracle occurs. However, the fact that natural law needs to
be superceded implies that "nature" possesses some sort of
influence or significance.

A wonder, by contrast, is entirely above nature; the very
concept of nature is meaningless.

Indeed, this demonstrates the greatness of Pinchas: The miracles
associated with him were not merely a succession of supernatural
events, each one of which had to rise above the existing universal
order. Rather, what Pinchas experienced could more accurately be
described as one big, uninterrupted wonder that bypassed nature
entirely.

The reason G-d acted toward Pinchas in a "wondrous" manner was
that Pinchas' Divine service was similarly "wondrous." In effect,
G-d was merely responding to Pinchas measure for measure.

In terms of Divine service, both "miracles" and "wonders" imply
self-sacrifice. However, self-sacrifice can exist on two levels:

On the lower level ("miracle"), the Jew serves G-d in the usual
manner. If self-sacrifice should ever become necessary, he will
rise to the occasion.

On the higher level ("wonder"), the ENTIRETY of the person's
Divine service is carried out in a super-natural manner of
self-sacrifice. The Jew gives his will over to G-d so completely
that all of his actions are a reflection of self-sacrifice.

Pinchas was the embodiment of the level of "wonder." His very
essence was self-sacrifice for G-d, which is why he endangered
himself for a matter that was not strictly required by the letter
of the law. Because his entire being was self-sacrifice, he did not
ask any questions and acted in a zealous manner.

Indeed, the practical directive to be derived from Pinchas is as
follows: Every Jew must strive for this essential self-sacrifice,
strengthening Jewish observance and disseminating Torah and mitzvot
with selfless devotion, ignoring ostensible obstacles and giving
oneself over to G-d wholeheartedly. G-d will then respond in kind,
enabling us to serve Him in a manner of "wonder," and we will
successfully bring about the Final Redemption.

*******************************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR FRIEND AND COPY EDITOR *
* Reb Mordechai ben Reb Shaul *
* Staiman *
* Passed away on 22 Tamuz, 5763 *
*******************************************************

************************
* THE REBBE'S PROPHECY *
************************

The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson of Lubavitch, issued
a call that "THE TIME OF OUR REDEMPTION HAS ARRIVED!" and
"MOSHIACH IS ON HIS WAY!"

The Rebbe stressed that he is saying this AS A PROPHECY, and
asks us all to prepare ourselves for the Redemption, through
increasing acts of goodness and kindness.

LET US ALL HEED THE REBBE'S CALL.
_______________
See "Living With Moshiach" Vol 539:
http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5767/522-539.htm

*********************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR GRANDPARENTS,*
* *
* Reb Shmuel Pesach Ben Reb Yaakov Dovid *
* Passed away on 3 Tishrei, 5755 *
* *
* Mrs. Fraidel Chedvah Bas Reb Zev Wolf *
* Passed away on 4 Adar II, 5755 *
* Pais *
* *
* Dedicated by their grandchildren *
* Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Y. and Gittel Rochel *
* Shagalov *
*********************************************

************************
* EXILE IS BUT A DREAM *
************************

On Shabbat Parshat Pinchas, 5744/1984, the Rebbe spoke in a
relatively unusual manner about his persistence and insistence on
continuously discussing the coming of Moshiach. Following are
translated excerpts from that talk:

"Some people wonder: How can a person appear in public, week
after week, and repeatedly speak on one subject -- the coming of
Moshiach?

"Furthermore, that person always stresses that he is not just
speaking of the concept, but of the actual coming of Moshiach, here
on this physical earth, and immediately, this very day. On each
occasion he instructs those gathered to sing 'May the Holy Temple
be rebuilt speedily in our days,' emphasizing that 'speedily in our
days' should not be understood as 'speedily, tomorrow,' but as
'speedily, today'!

"Certainly, every Jew believes that Moshiach can come at any
moment -- after all, 'I await his coming every day' is one of the
fundamental principles of Judaism. Still, they wonder, to believe
that Moshiach will come at this very moment is hardly consistent
with the reality of our lives. So why does this man speak
incessantly about it, on every occasion, and with such
single-minded intensity, as if to force the idea into the minds of
his listeners?

"Their conclusion is that all this is a nice dream, nice, but
not very realistic. So what is the point of speaking so much about
one's dreams?

"Chasidic philosophy explains that our current state of exile is
like a dream; in a dream one's sense of perception can tolerate the
most contradictory and irrational things.

"In other words, our current 'reality' is a dream, while the
world of Moshiach is the true reality. In a single moment, we can
all wake up from the dream of exile and open our eyes to the true
reality of our existence -- the perfect world of Moshiach. Everyone
present in this room can immediately awaken himself from his dream,
so that today, Shabbat Parshat Pinchas, 5744, before we even say
the afternoon prayers, in fact this very moment, we all open our
eyes and see Moshiach, in the flesh, with us, here in this room."

May the Rebbe's words of 24 years ago, and his prophetic promise
of 17 years ago, that "the time of our Redemption has arrived," be
fulfilled Now!

************************************
* A "ZALMAN MOMENT" [1] *
* A Tribute to Rabbi Shneur Zalman *
* HaLevi Shagalov, o.b.m. *
************************************

In honor of his second yahrtzeit,
Thurs., 21 Tamuz, 5768 (July 24, 2008)

by Gitel Rochel Shagalov [2]

Thursday, the 21st of Tamuz (July 24, 2008), marks the second
yartzeit of my father-in-law, Rabbi Shneur Zalman HaLevi Shagalov.
Self-sacrifice for Reb Zalman, as he was affectionately known, was
a way of life. In 1937, when he was only five years old, the
Communist regime arrested and executed his father, Rabbi Yitzchok
Elchonon HaLevi Shagalov [3] for his "anti-government" actions of
teaching Torah to Jewish children and for being a mohel (ritual
circumciser) and shochet (ritual slaughterer). His widow, Rebbetzin
Maryashe Garelik Shagalov, [4] who passed away last year at age 106,
continued to raise Reb Zalman and his five siblings alone, with a
strong Chasidic upbringing under the most difficult conditions.

Throughout his life, Reb Zalman was actively devoted to helping
Jewish refugees from the Former Soviet Union and was personally
responsible for thousands of children and adults undergoing brit
mila (circumcision). Till the last day of his life, Reb Zalman
continued to help Russian immigrants, whether it was shoes, pots
and pans to make a kosher kitchen, a family's rent, enrolling the
children in Jewish schools, making peace between husband and wife,
or a warm smile and encouragement. If food or clothing was needed
for families who were too embarrassed to go themselves to receive a
public donation, Reb Zalman would stand in line for them for as
long as necessary. He did everything in a quiet way without making
a big fuss.

Reb Zalman is best known for his warm smile and his tremendous
love of his fellow Jew, which he did with the utmost genuine
humility and simplicity. He always greeted everyone he met, Jew and
non-Jew, with a smile and loving concern. During shiva (week of
mourning), many people said that they felt they had lost their best
friend. Even the UPS driver came upstairs with tears in his eyes,
telling us that the night before, every time he tried to fall
asleep, he saw Reb Zalman's face and smile and he missed him very
much. He recalled the previous winter when Reb Zalman at age 74
offered to help him push his UPS truck when it got stuck in the
snow.

Shortly before he passed away, while walking to shul, Reb Zalman
spotted a young man who had grown up in a religious home but who
had become disconnected from the Torah way of life. He called the
boy's name and waved for him to come over to him. The boy waved
back saying, "Old man, if you want to talk to me, you can come over
here." Reb Zalman crossed the street with a warm smile and put his
arms around the boy, gave him a big kiss, and lovingly told him,
"You could be my son!" The boy came to Reb Zalman's funeral wearing
a yarmulke (skull-cap) on his head, something he had not done for a
long time, and told the family that Reb Zalman's hug and kiss had
put him back on the Torah path.

When Reb Zalman's five-year-old granddaughter, Michal was asked
what she missed most about her grandfather, she summed it up for
all who knew him when she said, "The way he loves me!"

One day during the shiva I was in the grocery store. As I waited
in line, ahead of me were two young brothers who were buying
groceries for their family. Their groceries cost $42.86, but as the
boys only had $40, they asked the cashier to put $2.86 on their
family's credit account. The cashier said, "I can't put any money
on this account because it's already over the limit." The boys
pleaded with her but the cashier, who was new, just repeated, "I
can't do it. Your account is over the limit!" Finally she called
the manager over and he extended the family's credit.

I paid for my groceries and left the store thoughtfully. I knew
that I had just missed an important moment, what we now call, "The
Zalman Moment." I was wrapped up in my own little world while I was
waiting in line, but as I left the store, I realized that if Reb
Zalman had been standing where I was standing, he would have tuned
into the moment of their need and quietly paid the cashier the
amount that they were short, without any fuss. I felt so bad about
missing that "Zalman Moment," that I decided to return to the
store. I spoke to the manager and told him that I wanted to put
money on the family's account so that they would no longer be over
the limit. The manager looked at me strangely for a moment and then
his face lit up. He said, "No, you don't understand. The family
doesn't have trouble paying the bill; they were just out of town
and haven't had a chance to come in and take care of it and my
cashier who is new didn't know what to do. May you merit to do more
mitzvot!"

As I returned home with the groceries, I had another "Zalman
Moment."

I passed by one of the ladies on the corner who asks for
charity. Instead of just handing her a quarter and rushing on, I
paused and held her hand for a moment as I gave her the coin and a
blessing. Tears came to her eyes and a big smile as she blessed me
also.

When I came into the house, I told the family about my "Zalman
Moments" -- how my perception was starting to change and deepen as
I look at the world the way that I imagine Zalman sees it --
looking outward at other's pain and then doing something to lessen
their pain.

Our daughter Chaya Sara left for California soon after that, and
she called us from the airport all excited. "I just had a Zalman
Moment!" she said, "I was paying for something in one of the
airport shops. When the cashier routinely said, 'Hi, how are you
today?' I answered her, 'I'm fine. How are you?' and then I waited
for her to answer. Her face lit up with the biggest smile as she
realized somebody really wanted to know about her day."
_______________
1. If after reading this, you, too, have a "Zalman Moment,"
please share it with us at: yys@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

2. Gitel Rochel (Rae Ekman) Shagalov can be reached via her
website, "http://www.holysparks.org";

3. A story of a famous incident in his life, "Court Case in
Gomel" is printed in Living With Moshiach Issue 460:
"http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5766/459-460.htm";

4. A story of her bitachon -- trust and faith in G-d, is
printed in Living With Moshiach Issue 514:
"http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5767/502-514.htm";

*******************************
* DON'T GIVE ME YOUR ATTITUDE *
*******************************

Surely you've seen the t-shirts and pins stating, "I don't need
your attitude, I have one of my own."

Most likely, the person wearing this message is tired of being
confronted by people with negative, angry attitudes, whether a
fellow commuter on mass transit, a cashier at the supermarket, or a
customer service representative for a local utility company.

People with attitudes seem cold as ice, but if you've ever tried
saying a few caring words, you were probably surprised to see the
frosty exterior melt like a popsicle on a 100 degree day.

"You look like you've had a really hard day" will often get you
a sigh of appreciation and a peek under the veil of indifference
and anger.

But why should we put ourselves out and be compassionate toward
a surly person?

Because, in these last few moments of life as we know it here in
this imperfect world, we can practice honing our interpersonal
skills. Kindness, compassion, and consideration are what our
attitudes will be all about in the times of Moshiach.

In the Messianic Era, the inherent goodness and G-dliness that
everything contains, will be revealed. We can help reveal that
latent quality even now by making sure our Attitudes are caring
toward our fellow human beings. Even if their Attitudes make them
seem despicable and unworthy of compassion, we should respect them
simply because they are G-d's creatures, and if G-d tolerates them,
we should, too.

Sometimes, displaying a Moshiach Attitude takes no time at all.
Like when you flash a smile at someone as you pass him or her on
the sidewalk, or when you say a heartfelt "thank you" as you're
given your change. At other times it might take a moment, but not
much more, to let your Moshiach Attitude shine through: Letting
someone with one item go ahead of you in the supermarket line;
helping a little old lady cross the street (yes, there are still
little old ladies who need help crossing the street!); calling a
parent or sibling to say, "I was thinking of you," not cutting
someone off in traffic just to get to your destination 30 seconds
earlier. But those moments are timeless and well spent.

Practicing a Moshiach Attitude now is a sure way to get ready
for and actually hastens the perfect world we've always dreamed of.

********************
* MOSHIACH MATTERS *
********************

A Chasid once asked Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, the third
Rebbe of Chabad-Lubavitch, known as the Tzemach Tzedek, whether he
should settle in the land of Israel. There he would devote his life
to Torah study and mitzvah observance.

The Tzemach Tzedek replied, "Make the place where you are into
the Holy Land."

What does that response mean?

To answer, we must first understand what is Eretz Yisrael, the
Holy Land. The Holy Land is a place where G-dliness, holiness and
Judaism are openly revealed. In an ultimate sense, this will be
realized in the Messianic era when the third Holy Temple will be
rebuilt and the observance of all the commandments associated with
holiness of the land will be restored.

This is the essence of the Messianic Era. The relationship
between man and G-d will no longer be based on faith alone, but
will also be nourished by a first-hand awareness of G-d's Presence
here on earth. The physical setting of the world will not change in
the era of Redemption. What will be different is our knowledge and
awareness of G-d.

The directive "Make this place the Holy Land" means that every
individual should and can draw G-dliness into his life and into his
environment.

Each of us should know that one's "place," that is, each
dimension of our environment and each moment of time we experience
can be transformed into the Holy Land, into a place where G-dliness
is openly revealed.

****************************
* THE SEVENTEENTH OF TAMUZ *
****************************

Sunday, 17th of Tamuz, July, 20, is a fast day. We neither eat
nor drink, from approximately 72 minutes before sunrise until 40
minutes after sunset. [5]
_______________
5. In New York City, at 8:56 p.m.

*********************
* THE "THREE WEEKS" *
*********************

This summer, during the months of July and August, comes a very
serious time for the Jewish people, when many terrible things
happened throughout history. This period is called the "Three
Weeks," or Bain HaMetzorim, which means "Between the Straits."

What happened during this time? On the 17th of Tamuz: 1) Moses
descended from Mt. Sinai and smashed the two Tablets with the Ten
Commandments when he saw the Jews worshipping the Golden Calf; 2)
The Romans breached the walls of Jerusalem in 70 c.e.; 3) During
the siege of Jerusalem the daily sacrifice was interrupted by
Nebuchadnezzer; 4) Apostomus publicly burned a Torah scroll; and 5)
An idol was erected in the courtyard of the Holy Temple. On the 9th
of Av, both the First and Second Temple were destroyed, bringing
terrible suffering upon the Jewish people.

*

The "Three Weeks" begin on the 17th of Tamuz (Sunday, July 20,
2008), and continue until the 9th of Av (Sunday, August 10, 2008).

**********************************
* SOME LAWS OF THE "THREE WEEKS" *
**********************************

We observe some aspects of mourning: Weddings do not take place,
and playing musical instruments is prohibited, as is the buying and
wearing of new garments. In addition, we do not cut our hair.

Also, we should try to be extra kind to one another. We should
give extra charity, and learn extra Torah, and pray to G-d to end
the Exile.

*

Jewish teachings explain that when we learn the laws of the Holy
Temple, its structure, the services and sacrifices practiced there,
it is as if we are rebuilding it.

Therefore, the Rebbe stresses that during the "Three Weeks" we
should spend time studying what the Holy Temple will be like, and
to learn all about it.

***********************************
* A LESSON FROM THE "THREE WEEKS" *
***********************************

There are two approaches to the present period of the "Three
Weeks."

One approach is to dwell on the awesomeness of those tragedies
and the difficulties suffered by our people in the exile that
followed.

The other approach, while not minimizing the extent of our
nation's loss, puts the emphasis on the purpose of the exile.
Heaven forbid to say that destruction and exile are ends in and of
themselves. Rather, within the ashes of the Temple's destruction
was kindled the spark of the Future Redemption.

In an ultimate sense, this was the purpose of the exile -- to
prepare the Jewish people and the world at large for the higher and
deeper level of fulfillment to be reached in that era.

There is no question that the second approach is the one more
followed in the present age.

Our Sages declared, "All the appointed times for Moshiach's
coming have passed; the matter is only dependent on teshuvah."

We have already turned to G-d with sincere teshuvah. Thus, when
speaking of the readiness of our generation, the Previous Rebbe,
Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn, used the allegory of a garment
that is complete in all respects -- "and all that is needed now is
to polish the buttons."

Surely, the many years of vibrant Torah activity that have
followed since the Previous Rebbe's statement was made, have been
sufficient to accomplish that purpose.

We are standing on the threshold of the Redemption. Moshiach's
coming is no longer a dream of a distant future, but an imminent
reality that will very shortly become fully manifest.

Through living with the concept of Moshiach, we shall hasten his
coming and bring about the era in which these "Three Weeks" will be
transformed from mourning into the celebration of the Redemption.

May this take place in the immediate future.

*******************************************
* LAWS OF THE HOLY TEMPLE *
* Adapted from Rambam's Mishnah Torah [6] *
*******************************************

THE MITZVAH TO BUILD

When the Jews received the Torah at Mt. Sinai, they were
commanded to build a Holy Sanctuary for G-d, called in Hebrew, a
Mikdosh.

The purpose of the Temple is to provide G-d with a place to
dwell in this world, a House to which offerings may be brought.

Men and women must help to build the Temple. It is a mitzvah to
build it as beautifully as possible. If money is available, one
should even cover the whole structure with gold! However, children
may not be taken away from learning Torah, even for the sake of
building the Temple. We do not build the Temple on Shabbat or on
Yom Tov.

A person is meant to go to the Temple three times a year, to
celebrate the Festivals of Pesach, Shavuot, and Succot.

A BIT OF HISTORY

The first Sanctuary was built by Moshe and the Jews. It was
movable, and could be transported with the Jewish people from place
to place in the Wilderness.

After nearly 400 years, King David, the ancestor of Moshiach,
designed a permanent Temple for G-d in Jerusalem. It was built by
his son, King Solomon. This was the first Holy Temple. It stood 410
years!

The first Temple was destroyed by the Babylonian King
Nebuchadnezzar, who cast the Jews into exile.

After 70 years, the Jews were at last able to return to Israel,
under the leadership of Ezra the Scribe. He supervised the
construction of the Second Temple. This occurred right after the
story of Purim took place.

The Second Temple was larger than the First, and stood for 420
years! It was destroyed by the Roman armies led by Titus.

The Third Temple will be rebuilt on the same spot that the first
two Temples stood, when Moshiach comes, may it be very soon!

THE STRUCTURE

In building the Temple, large, expensive stones were used. Some
were used in their natural form; others were shaped with tools,
such as the huge stones still standing in the Western Wall.

On the Temple Mount itself, however, no iron tools could be
used. Even to hear the sound of an iron tool was forbidden, because
iron (as used for weapons) shortens the life of man, and the Temple
is meant to prolong it.

THE TEMPLE MOUNT

The entire Temple area was built on a mountain slope, not on
flat ground. When a person entered the Temple, he would have to
climb up Mt. Moriah, mounting the steps from level to level as he
went.

It is no accident that the Temple is built on a mountain. On a
mountainside it is very hard to stand still. You always have to
keep climbing. When it comes to learning Torah and doing mitzvot,
it is the same. We must also keep climbing--by learning and doing
more.

The Temple Mount is called Mount Moriah. The word moriah is from
the word yirah, meaning "fear" and "awe." When the Temple was
standing, the world was filled with fear and awe of G-d. The word
moriah is also from the root ho-r'ah, which means "teaching." This
is because the highest court in all Israel, the Sanhedrin, used to
sit in the Temple, so that teaching and instruction would go out
from there to all the Jewish people.

THE SANHEDRIN, THE SUPREME COURT

The Supreme Court of seventy-one Sages (the Sanhedrin) had its
chambers in the Temple. Here they would judge the people, and teach
them to go higher and higher in Torah and mitzvot.

The room in which the Sanhedrin would meet was called the
Chamber of Hewed Stone. It was called by this name because the
chairs for the judges were carved out of solid stone.

The wisest and most righteous judges in Israel used to meet
there, right by the Temple, so that when they were deciding the
most difficult problems of the Jewish nation they would always
think of G-d, and explain His Torah correctly.

When Moshiach comes, and the Temple will be rebuilt, the great
Sanhedrin will once again meet in the Chamber of Hewed Stones in
the Temple. At that time, peace will reign, and the city of
Jerusalem will expand to include all of the Land of Israel!

TO HOLD THE TEMPLE IN AWE

We are commanded to hold the Temple in awe, and to revere it. Of
course, it is not just the building that we revere, but the One who
commanded us to build it.

How do we revere the Temple? We are not to enter the Temple
Mount holding a staff, or with sandals on our feet, or dressed in
informal clothes, or with dust on our feet, or money in our hands.
Needless to say, we should not spit.

A person should not take a shortcut through the Temple Mount,
entering on one side and going out the other, just to make the way
shorter. Rather one should walk around the outside, and enter only
for the sake of a mitzvah.

When leaving the Temple, a person should not turn around and
walk away. He should go backwards slowly, and then turn to his side
until he is out of the courtyard.

A person should not act frivolously or joke around opposite the
eastern gate of the Temple, for it is directly opposite the Holy of
Holies.

Even though the Temple is now in ruins because of our sins, a
person must hold it in awe and behave in a dignified manner at all
times, just as when it was standing.

THE MITZVAH TO GUARD THE TEMPLE

It is a mitzvah to station guards around the Temple, just as a
king would have guards around his palace. Not that we have to
protect G-d, for He is mightier than any army, rather we station
guards to show Him honor.

Every night, 24 guards would take up their positions around the
Temple. The kohanim (Temple priests) stood guard inside, and 21
Levites stood guard on the outside.

In the time of Moshiach, when the Temple will be rebuilt, even
non-Jewish nations will send their armies to protect the Holy
Temple, so that the Jews can perform their service there, in peace,
to the benefit of the whole world.

THE VESSELS

The following vessels must be in the outer courtyard:

1. The Great Altar

The Great Altar was made of stone. It was for burnt offerings,
such as animals, birds, flour baked into matzos, and libations
(pourings) of wine. On top of the Great Altar three fires were kept
burning: one was for the daily offerings, one to provide coals for
burning the incense on the Golden Altar, and one just to fulfill
the commandment of always having a fire burning on the Altar of
G-d.

The kohanim (Temple priests) were not allowed to go up on the
Altar by means of steps, nor was it permissible to build steps for
the Altar. Only a ramp was allowed.

The Great Altar of the Temple was in a very precise place, which
may never be changed. This place is so holy that even non-Jews
recognize its holiness and have never worshipped idols on the spot.

The Great Altar was built on very holy ground. It is the same
place where our forefather Abraham prepared to sacrifice his son
Isaac (Yitzchok). Noah had made offerings to G-d there after the
flood. Even Adam had made his offering to G-d there. In fact from
that very spot G-d had taken the earth with which He created man!
The Altar of our Third Temple will also be built exactly in this
same place.

Large amounts of wood were used for the fire on the Great Altar.
Kohanim who could not serve in the Temple, either because of age or
some other reason, would check all the wood for worms before it
went to the outer Altar. They did this in a chamber called the Wood
Room.

2. The Kiyor, Wash-basin

The Kiyor (Wash-basin) was a large vessel full of water, used by
the kohanim to wash their hands and feet, before beginning their
service in the Temple.

The Kiyor, originally had only two taps, but later it was
redesigned by one of the High Priests called Ben Katin, to have
twelve taps. This enabled all the twelve priests who participated
in the daily offering to wash their hands and feet at once, before
they began the Temple service.

* * *

In the inner Holy Chamber, there are three vessels:

1. The Small Golden Altar

The small Altar was made of pure gold, and was for offerings of
sweet smelling incense.

2. The Menorah

The menorah was made of pure gold. It had three feet, and seven
straight branches. On each branch there were three upside-down
cups. Near the base was another cup, bringing the total to 22
cups--exactly equal to the number of letters in the aleph bais, the
Hebrew alphabet.

There were also 9 flowers and 11 egg-shaped bulbs decorating the
menorah. The flowers were a symbol of the world's potential for
growth and development. The bulbs were a symbol of limitless
spiritual pleasure.

The menorah was lit by the Kohen Gadol, the High Priest, every
day toward evening.

All the flames in the menorah faced the central lamp. This lamp
was called the nair ma'aravi--the western lamp--because it faced
the Holy of Holies. This lamp was the first one kindled every day
toward evening, and it would burn miraculously long after the
others had burned out, until it was time to rekindle the menorah
the next day. This was a sign to the entire world that G-d dwelt
with the Jewish people.

3. The Shulchan, The Table

Twelve specially baked "loaves" were placed on this golden table
every Friday before Shabbat. They stood in two rows. Between each
tray was an air-space; the "loaves" were called the lechem hapanim,
because they were shaped like a barge, facing in 2 directions at
once.

THE KODESH HAKODOSHIM

The holiest part of the Temple was in the west. It was called
the Holy of Holies.

In it stood the Ark, in which the Ten Commandments were kept.
This box was made of wood, with a layer of gold inside and a layer
of gold outside. There were really three boxes, one within the
other.

The cover of the Ark was solid gold more than 6" thick.

On top of the Ark-cover were two golden figures, a boy and a
girl. Like soldiers they stood guard over the Torah. G-d spoke to
Moshe through their wings.

When G-d was pleased with the Jewish people, these figures would
face towards each other with love.

Beside the Ark was the legendary staff of Moshe's brother,
Aaron, the first high priest, which once miraculously sprouted
almond blossoms overnight, and a flask containing manna, a memorial
from the time of Moshe and from the time the Jews were in the
wilderness. This was to remind Jews how G-d sustained our ancestors
for forty years in the desert, and how surely, He can sustain us
now and at all times!

No one was ever allowed into this Holiest Chamber except the
Kohen Gadol, and he could only enter once a year, on Yom Kippur, to
pray for the welfare of the Jewish people.

To clean the Holy of Holies, men were lowered from above in
baskets. The baskets faced the wall, so that the men could do their
job without looking into the room itself.

When King Solomon built the Temple, he knew that it would
ultimately be destroyed. He built secret underground rooms in which
to hide The Ark with the Ten Commandments, as well as Aaron's
staff, the small vessel with manna, and the oil for anointing.

Before the First Temple was destroyed, King Yeshiyahu commanded
that the Ark be placed in these secret passageways. He also hid the
staff of Aaron, the bottle of manna, and the oil for anointing.

None of these things was found again, not even in the time of
the Second Temple, but they will all be returned in the time of
Moshiach, when the Third Temple will be rebuilt, speedily NOW.
_______________
6. Adapted from the "Tzivos Hashem Newsletter," edited by Dr.
Dovid S. Pape.

**************************************
* TIME FOR UNITY; TIME FOR STRENGTH! *
**************************************

The most important principle in the Torah is the protection of
Jewish life.

It's more important than Shabbat, more important than holidays,
even fasting on Yom Kippur.

Right now, in Israel, and everywhere, Jews must stand together
in unity and do whatever possible to protect Jewish life.

The Rebbe teaches that there are TEN important MITZVOT we can do
to protect life. See what you can do:

1) AHAVAT YISROEL: Behave with love towards another Jew.

2) LEARN TORAH: Join a Torah class.

3) Make sure that Jewish children get a TORAH TRUE EDUCATION.

4) Affix kosher MEZUZOT on all doorways of the house.

5) For men and boys over 13: Put on TEFILLIN every weekday.

6) Give CHARITY.

7) Buy JEWISH HOLY BOOKS and learn them.

8) LIGHT SHABBAT & YOM TOV candles. A Mitzvah for women and
girls.

9) Eat and drink only KOSHER FOOD.

10) Observe the laws of JEWISH FAMILY PURITY.

In addition the Rebbe urges that:

Every Jewish man, woman and child should have a letter written
for them in a SEFER TORAH.*

Every person should study either the Rambam's Yad Hachazakah --
Code of Jewish Law -- or the Sefer HaMitzvos.

Concerning Moshiach, the Rebbe stated, "The time for our
redemption has arrived!" Everyone should prepare themselves for
Moshiach's coming by doing random acts of goodness and kindness,
and by studying about what the future redemption will be like. May
we merit to see the fulfillment of the Rebbe's prophecy now!
_______________
*. There are several Torah scrolls being written to unite Jewish
people and protect Jewish life.

Letters for children can be purchased for only $1. Send your
Hebrew name and your mother's Hebrew name plus $1 to:
"Children's Sefer Torah," P.O. Box 8, Kfar Chabad, 72915, Israel
or via the Internet, at: http://www.kidstorah.org

********************
* A CALL TO ACTION *
********************

The Rebbe's slogan is: "The main thing is the deed." We
therefore present from the Rebbe's talks, suggestions of what we
can do to complete his work of bringing the Redemption.

Study About the Holy Temple:

Jewish teachings explain that when we learn the laws of the Holy
Temple, its structure, the services and sacrifices practiced there,
it is as if we are rebuilding it.

Therefore, the Rebbe stresses that during the "Three Weeks" we
should spend time studying what the Holy Temple will be like, and
to learn all about it.

*

"This study should be carried out in anxious anticipation of the
Holy Temple being rebuilt. We should study about the Holy Temple
with the awareness that in the very near future we will see what we
are studying about in actual reality."
The Rebbe, 24 Tamuz, 5751/1991

*

"G-d told the prophet Yechezkel that through studying the laws
of the structure of the Holy Temple it is considered as if we have
been involved in its actual construction.

"As we are so close to the Redemption, the subject must be
approached as a present reality; at any moment the Third Holy
Temple which is already built in the heavens will descend and be
revealed on earth."
The Rebbe, 17 Tamuz, 5751/1991

*

The text of the book: "Seek Out The Welfare Of Jerusalem"
[Analytical Studies by the Rebbe, of Rambam's rulings concerning
the construction and design of the Holy Temple], published by
Sichos in English -- is available on-line at:
"http://www.sichosinenglish.org/books/seek-out";, and is divided
into a special study program.

Also, for a Audio/Visual Virtual Interactive Tour of the second
Bais Hamikdosh (Holy Temple), go to:
"http://www.moshiach.com/temple";

***************************************
* In loving memory of *
* HORAV CHAIM YEHUDA KALMAN *
* Ben Horav Avrohom Yehoshua Marlow, *
* head of the Bet-Din (Rabbinical *
* Court) of Crown Heights, *
* Passed away, on Friday Morning, *
* 20 Sivan, 5760 (June 23, 2000) *
***************************************

*******************************
* THE WEEKLY SHABBAT CALENDAR *
*******************************

** JEWISH WOMEN AND GIRLS LIGHT SHABBAT CANDLES **

*******************************************************
* FOR LOCAL CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES: *
* consult your local Rabbi, Chabad-Lubavitch Center. *
* or: *
* http://www.candlelightingtimes.org/shabbos *
* *
* FOR A FREE CANDLE LIGHTING KIT: *
* contact your local Chabad-Lubavitch Center. *
* *
* FOR A LISTING OF THE CENTERS IN YOUR AREA: *
* http://www.chabadworld.net *
*******************************************************

>>>> Times Shown Are for Metro NY - NJ <<<<

FRIDAY, JULY 18, EREV SHABBAT PARSHAT PINCHAS:
* Light Shabbat Candles, [7] by 8:05 p.m.

SATURDAY, JULY 19, SHABBAT PARSHAT PINCHAS:
* On Shabbat following the afternoon prayer, we read Chapter 6 of
Pirkei Avot -- Ethics of the Fathers.
* Shabbat ends at NIGHTFALL, at 9:11 p.m.
_______________
7. The Shabbat candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset.
IT IS PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO
LIGHT THE CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET.

*********************************************
* May the Shabbat candles, of the millions *
* of Jewish women and girls around the *
* world, illuminate our way, until we very *
* soon see the fulfillment of G-d's promise *
* (as it is written in the Midrash *
* (Yalkut Shimoni, Beha'alotecha)): *
* "If you will observe the kindling of the *
* Shabbat lights, you will merit to see *
* the lights of the redemption of the *
* Jewish people," speedily in our days, *
* NOW! *
*********************************************

***************************************
* "LET THERE BE LIGHT" *
* - The Jewish Women's Guide *
* to Lighting Shabbat Candles *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/ltbl.htm *
***************************************

***********************************
* LAWS OF SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING *
* FOR THE BLIND *
***********************************

Edited by Rabbi Y. K. Marlow O.B.M.*

* A blind woman who lives alone should light her Shabbat
candle(s) with a blessing.

* If she is married to a non-visually impaired person, HER
HUSBAND SHOULD LIGHT THE SHABBAT CANDLES WITH THE BLESSING.

* If she is eating and lighting in the company of others who
are non-visually impaired, and they lit the Shabbat candles,
she should light her own Shabbat candle(s), BUT WITHOUT SAYING THE
BLESSING.

* (If at all possible, she should not be the last one to light
the Shabbat candle(s), so that she can be absolved by the latter's
blessing.)
_______________
*. Head of Bet-Din (Rabbinical Court) of Crown Heights.

************************************
* SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING BLESSING *
************************************

* First light the candles. Then spread your hands out around the
candles, drawing your hands inward in a circular motion three times
to indicate the acceptance of the sanctity of Shabbat. You then
cover your eyes and recite the following blessing:

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
A-SHER KI-DE-SHO-NU BE-MITZ-VO-SOV VE-TZI-VO-NU
LE-HAD-LIK NER SHEL SHA-BOS KO-DESH.

Translation:

Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
who has sanctified us with His commandments, and
commanded us to kindle the light of the holy Shabbat.

* Uncover your eyes and behold the Shabbat lights.

* The time of lighting is considered especially propitious for
praying to G-d for health and happiness. The prayer is readily
acceptable because it is offered during the performance of this
great mitzvah of lighting Shabbat candles.

CAUTION:
The candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset. IT IS
PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO LIGHT THE
CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET.

*******************************************
* MOSHIACH INFORMATION HOTLINES *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/hotlines.htm *
*******************************************

******************************************
* MOSHIACH IN THE AIR - ELECTRONIC MEDIA *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/e-media.htm *
******************************************

********************************
* LIVING WITH MOSHIACH *
* Weekly Digest About Moshiach *
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= End of Text: Living With Moshiach, Parshat Pinchas, 5768 =
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