Thursday, November 18, 2004

this week's haftara

Chazal, the sages, say that we're in this world to correct the sins, mistakes, of the past. This week's haftara, the portion generally from "Prophets and Writings" of the Bible, is so modern. It's all about politics and power.
Many of us ask how come even the best, most moral, patriotic politicians jump off the cliff into immoral, dangerous policies. I recently signed up for an email "lesson" in the haftarot, since I really know very little about them.
I just had to quote from it, with attribution at the end, so if you want to sign up, all the info's there.
When will we have a true leader for good in high office. What happens to the politicians when the sit in that "chair?"

Yeravam could not see himself forgoing his respect for Rechavam's sake. He conceivably reasoned that the king must display total authority and not be perceived as subservient to anyone. However, the Sages reveal that this reasoning was truly rooted in arrogance and unwillingness to show others proper honor and respect. This character flaw created his threatening illusion and propelled him to alienate his kingdom. We now realize that what began as a subtle insensitivity towards Shlomo Hamelech eventually developed into a full grown split in our nation. Yeravam did perform a meritorious act but showed disrespect for authority. Hashem granted Yeravam the throne but tested his ability to manage such authority. Yeravam succumbed to the temptation of power and could not forego his own honor. This persistent drive blinded him and misled him to undermine his own power and destroy his kingdom. (see Maharzu's comment to Vayikra Rabba 12:5) Regretfully, we learn the power of a character flaw and see how one person's sense of honor and respect destroyed our nation and exiled our Ten lost tribes.
Haftorah, Copyright © 2004 by Rabbi Dovid Siegel and Torah.org. The authoris Rosh Kollel (Dean) of Kollel Toras Chaim, Kiryat Sefer, Israel.Rabbi Siegel's topic-of-interest lectures are available through KollelToras Chesed's Tape of the Month Club.Join the Jewish Learning Revolution! Torah.org: The Judaism Site bringsthis and a host of other classes to you every week. Visit http://torah.orgor email learn@torah.org to get your own free copy of this mailing.Project Genesis - Torah.org is a recognized charity and depends upon yoursupport. Please help us by visiting http://torah.org/support/ forinformation on class dedications, memorials, annual giving and more.

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