Thought of the Week: Ki Teitzei - 5776

UPLIFTING HAFTARAH

We are all familiar with the tradition of reading every Shabbat words from the prophets, known as the Haftarah.  Usually, the Haftarah is thematically linked to the Paresha.  However, for the seven weeks following Tisha B'Av we read Haftarot that are to comfort the people of Israel after experiencing the pain of the destruction of Yerushalaim.

These Haftarot, known as the Shiva Denechemta, prepare us as well for the Yamim Noraim-the Days of Awe.

As we hear this Shabbat the words of Isaiah, "Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed, says Hashem, who has compassion on you," we are reminded that although we view the upcoming season as a serious one, we must never forget the love Hashem has for his people.

Rosh Hashanah is indeed a day of judgment.  Nevertheless, our tradition teaches us to treat the day as a Yom Tov, with fine foods and honourable garments.  We do so to show our confidence in the mercy of Hashem and thus merit a good year.

Let us all utilize this wonderful period with self-growth and spiritual meaning.

Shabbat Shalom