You refer to our individual spirituality. But as a Nation, our only center is in Eretz Yisrael.
Even so, our individual spirituality is perceived in some places more than others. And it can't be denied that Israel, and Har HaBayit in particular (aka G-d's "resting place"), is the most concentrated source of spirituality and holiness to exist.
Thanks. Interesting point, Garnel. I never thought of it like that. Our repentance may well have been sincere then and thus accepted, but we still unfortunately fell in the same trap.
Agh! What a country, what a people! And I bet this woman would never have realised what an impact she'd made from one pair of eyes watching her, who has now passed on this message to possibly hundreds of others. A true kiddish Hashem.
That's really beautiful. And I feel like I've arrived in paradise just by looking at that picture. I've often wondered why I find Israel so incredibly beautiful, when, objectively there's so many other beautiful places in the world - and then I realised, it's because it's ours.
Completely agree... and very relevant to my life right now actually. I have just made a gigantic decision based on "conviction." I've had so many people doubting my own ambition that I even started to doubt it myself. But no! You are right, great post. Thanks.
I don't think this post is a justification for their deaths in any way, chas v'shalom. It was merely an introduction to my main point, and a general fact; I think everyone is much more aware of Chabad's work now, certainly I am anyway, after watching videos about their work in Mumbai. And I do believe there is a way to make good out of everything, as Chabad *themselves* are doing - the Jewish way isn't to take revenge and kill, but it is strengthening outselves spiritually and as a people, and that's exactly how Chabad have reacted (getting people to take on extra mitzvot and good deeds etc).
While I 100% agree that Israel is the only Homeland and the most desirable place for a Jew to be in - I do not think that, for a lot of people anyway, it is going to be easy to leave your family and friends for a year. Israel still remains exciting and homely which is why more and more people are choosing a Year in Israel program. But with it comes challenges according to each individual. No parent wants to let go of their kid and most kids will find the transformation hard. That could happen anywhere in the world. Yet they are both making the sacrifice for the greater good of being in the Homeland, fullfilling the Torah and walking in holiness. We shouldn't be naive and think that just because it's our Home it's easy to leave our family. Remember, most of these rabbonim are trying to ease worried parents (particularly Jewish mothers) and scared children into leaving their family and the place of their birth that they have been accustomed to for 18 years... It is a sacrifice but everyone involved know they have no other choice because it IS home and it IS exciting.
Who knew pirates could be so useful?! There's a place for every creation.
Shkoyach! Great first post, good to have you on board!
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