Rabbi's Blog

Dear OZ family,

Moadim L’simcha!

Our representatives have spoken. Yesterday’s House vote of 420-9 has demonstrated the very broad support that Israel enjoys across the board of our government. The Iron Dome prevents fire from raining on Israel from the enemies that surround her. The prophet, Zechariah, whose words we read on the first day of Sukkot, speaks of the rains that would fall on Israel that would put out the fires of our enemies. Such protection is open to anyone who puts their faith in God as is exemplified by the observance of Sukkot. The flimsy roof above our heads is the protection of the faithful, even as the War of Gog U’magog rages around us. This final war is the topic of tomorrow’s Haftara, and the war’s name phonetically connects to the word “Gag”, which means roof in Hebrew. Gog demonstrates the arrogance of human vainglory, and is the opposite of the symbol of the Sukkah. We should always remember the words of Tehillim (127:1): “Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman keeps vigil in vain.”

May God continue to keep a watchful vigil over Israel, as He inspires the guardians and the accuracy of the Iron Dome.

The end of Sukkot commences the rainy season in Israel, and Israel already experienced brief rain yesterday and today. The Mishna in Masechet Rosh Hashana says that on Sukkot, we are judged on what we will earn in the coming year. May we add the comforts of earning a healthy living, along with the year of healthy life that we have already hopefully vouchsafed on the Yomim Noraim.  

Chag Sameach!

Be safe.  Be healthy.  Be excellent.

Rabbi Allen Schwartz    

Rabbi Allen Schwartz

Congregation Ohab Zedek

118 West 95^th Street

New York, NY  10025-6604

Phone 212.749-5150, ext 200

E-mail ras@ozny.org

Website:  www.ozny.org