1. Introduction and Dedication
Today’s class is dedicated to the memory of Reine bas Yosef, whose yahrzeit—anniversary of passing—is today. We will explore an intriguing passage from the beginning of Tractate Avodah Zorah, which has a connection to the festival of Sukkos. As with many aggados—narrative teachings—of the Talmud, there are profound secrets beneath the surface, but we will focus on one key point and its relevance to Sukkos.2. The Future Reward and Nations’ Complaint
The Gemara discusses what will happen in the future, in oylam habo—the world to come after Mashiach arrives. At that time, Hashem will distribute reward, and the nations of the world will protest: Why do the Jews receive such magnificent reward? The Talmud describes a dialogue between Hashem and these nations. Each nation steps forward—the Romans, the Persians—claiming they performed great deeds for the sake of the Jewish people. Hashem responds that all their actions were ultimately self-serving.3. The Argument About Accepting the Torah
The discussion continues as Hashem reminds them that before giving the Torah to Bnei Yisroel, He offered it to all nations, but only the Jews accepted it. The nations counter that Bnei Yisroel were forced into accepting it: Hashem held Mount Sinai over their heads and threatened them with burial if they refused. They argue that had they been similarly coerced, they too would have accepted.4. The Test of the Mitzvah of Sukkah
Hashem then proposes a new test: “I have a light mitzvah,” He says, “the mitzvah of Sukkah.” He gives them an opportunity to build and dwell in a sukkah to prove their worthiness for reward. However, Hashem brings out an intense sun—a heat wave reminiscent of Tammuz—making it unbearably hot in their sukkahs. Unable to bear it, each nation kicks their sukkah and leaves, conceding: “Let the Jews have the reward.”5. The Halachic Question: Exemption Due to Discomfort
The Gemara raises an important question: There is a halachic principle called mitztaer—one who is in pain or discomfort is exempt from dwelling in a sukkah. The sukkah is meant to be your temporary home during Sukkos, but if remaining there causes significant discomfort—such as rain or extreme heat—you are not obligated to stay inside. So how could Hashem test them with this mitzvah when they were halachically exempt?6. The Deeper Lesson: Don’t Kick When Exempt
The Gemara answers: Even if you are exempt from sitting in the sukkah due to discomfort, you don’t kick it on your way out. This teaches a profound lesson about our attitude toward mitzvos and challenges in life. I’m reminded of a joke about someone praying fervently for blessings at a shul’s aron kodesh, only to fall down the stairs afterward and exclaim: “God, if You won’t give me what I ask for, at least don’t push me!” The message is clear: Even when things don’t go as we hope or expect, we don’t respond with anger or disrespect toward our spiritual obligations.7. Jewish Resilience and Inner Connection
This characteristic defines us as a people: Even when disappointed or frustrated by life’s outcomes or by not seeing immediate results from our efforts in avodas Hashem—service of God—we continue believing without rebellion or rejection. Many people grow up without exposure to deep aspects of Yiddishkeit or concepts like having a Jewish soul (neshama). Some never even heard about these ideas until much later in life. Yet even without formal knowledge or upbringing, there remains an inner spark—a core connection that persists regardless of external circumstances.8. Elevating Souls and Entering Sukkos with Joy
As we remember Reine bas Reb Yosef on her yahrzeit, we recognize that when children and descendants perform good deeds and pray for her soul, it brings tremendous benefit and elevation (aliyah) to her neshama. Today also marks the yahrzeit of the fourth Chabad Rebbe, the Rebbe Maharash, known for his miraculous life and elevated service of Hashem. This makes today an especially auspicious time for spiritual connection as we approach Sukkos—Zman Simchaseinu, our season of joy—and celebrate together with all its blessings and happiness. May we merit a truly joyous Yom Tov and experience genuine simcha in all areas of our lives.Good Yom Tov and a freilichen Sukkos!