בס "ד

Integrar la Torá en la propia vida a través de la reflexión y la conversación puede ser una experiencia increíblemente divertida y atractiva. Es un viaje de descubrimiento, en el que la sabiduría ancestral y las enseñanzas intemporales cobran vida en nuestras experiencias cotidianas. A través de la reflexión, tenemos la oportunidad de sumergirnos en el rico tapiz de la Torá, extrayendo profundas ideas y lecciones que resuenan en nuestras vidas modernas. La alegría reside en los momentos "ajá", aquellos en los que un versículo o una historia de la Torá conectan de repente con nuestros retos, aspiraciones y valores personales. Y cuando participamos en conversaciones sobre la Torá con otras personas, se convierte en una exploración interactiva, en la que diversas perspectivas e interpretaciones mejoran nuestra comprensión. Estos diálogos a menudo despiertan el entusiasmo y la curiosidad intelectual, haciendo que el proceso de aprendizaje sea agradable y satisfactorio. La Torá se convierte en una parte vibrante y dinámica de nuestras vidas, que nos ofrece no sólo orientación, sino también una fuente inagotable de fascinación, conexión y crecimiento.


NOTA: No te sientas obligado a consultar todas las fuentes ni a responder a todas las preguntas, a menos que quieras hacerlo. Incluso una sola fuente o una sola pregunta te dará mucho material para debatir y meditar. Disfrútalo.

Some thoughts from the parsha

In this week’s parsha, we come across a perplexing command: the Israelites are instructed to “harass” and “smite” the Midianites. This isn’t just about physical battle but also about nurturing a deep-seated aversion toward them. The reason behind this command is because the Midianites, through deceitful means, led the Israelites into idol worship, which was an affront to their faith and a severe breach of holiness.

The Midianites’ strategy was to undermine the Israelites’ connection to G-d by enticing them into immoral behavior, which in turn led to the worship of idols—the most severe transgression in the Torah. This act of sowing spiritual discord was an attack on the very essence of the Israelites’ faith.

The Slonimer Rebbe highlights that the ultimate goal of the Midianites was to sever the Israelites’ relationship with G-d, making them spiritually vulnerable. He explains that they did this by striking at the “gate” of this relationship–kedusha, or holiness. This isn’t just about physical threats but about the broader impact on the soul that the Midianites’ plot was meant to have. The command to despise the Midianites reflects the need to recognize and combat forces that seek to weaken our spiritual commitment.

The lesson for us is clear: Just as the Israelites had to guard their faith against external threats, we too must be vigilant about forces that could undermine our spiritual connection. It’s a call to cherish and protect our relationship with G-d, recognizing the immense value it brings to our lives.

Now, reflect on the following questions

1. What are some modern-day influences or societal trends that might threaten your spiritual commitment or relationship with G-d? How can you counteract these threats?

2. How do you understand the concept of “holiness” in your own life? In what ways do you try to live a life that aligns with this definition?

3. Can you identify personal or societal forces that attempt to create a divide between you and your values or faith? How do you address these challenges?

4. Reflect on a time when you felt spiritually vulnerable. What factors contributed to that feeling, and what steps did you take to restore your sense of closeness to G-d?

5. In what ways can you actively strengthen your connection with G-d and ensure it remains unshaken despite external pressures? What practical actions can you take to deepen this relationship?

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¡Shabbat Shalom!

Por el rabino Tani Burton

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