1. Personal Milestones and Reflections
Today marks a significant milestone—our 40th wedding anniversary, celebrated on the 10th day of Sivan. Baruch Hashem, it has been four decades filled with blessings. Additionally, nine years after our wedding, on this very date, my father-in-law, Aryeh Leib ben Pesach Hillel, passed away. Tonight is his yahrzeit—anniversary of passing. Every milestone is an opportunity to pause and express gratitude to HaKadosh Baruch Hu—the Holy One, Blessed be He—for His kindness, grace, and abundant blessings.2. The Context of Parshas Nossi and Birchas Kohanim
Providentially, today’s Torah reading is Ravi Parshas Nossi, which includes the section of Birchas Kohanim—the priestly blessing given by the Kohanim to the Jewish people. The Torah introduces this mitzvah with the verse: “So you shall bless the children of Israel, say to them.” There is an apparent repetition here—why does it add “say to them” after already commanding “so you shall bless”? This redundancy invites deeper exploration.3. Rashi’s Insight on Amoyr and Intentional Blessing
Rashi notes that the word Amoyr—“say”—is written in its full form with a Vav in this verse, unlike most places in Chumash where it appears without a Vav. This detail is significant: Rashi explains that the fullness of the spelling teaches us not to bless hastily or with confusion but rather with intent and a complete heart. The Kohanim are instructed to give their blessing slowly and thoughtfully, with kavona—focused intention—and out of genuine love and concern for those they bless. This lesson extends beyond the Kohanim: when we offer blessings or express gratitude to Hashem for His kindness, it should not be done quickly or superficially. Instead, we should reflect deeply on all the goodness bestowed upon us and thank Hashem sincerely for His grace.4. Understanding Yevarechecho Hashem V’yishmarecho
The first phrase of the priestly blessing is “Yevarechecho Hashem—may God bless you.” This is immediately followed by “V’yishmarecho—and He will protect you.” Rashi explains that being blessed means receiving abundant assets or possessions—nechosim. However, if someone gives you a gift but cannot protect it from being stolen or lost (like a master giving a servant a gift only for robbers to take it), then what benefit is there in receiving it? Therefore, we ask not only for blessing but also for protection—that Hashem should safeguard what He gives us so that our blessings endure and are not short-lived. This dual request ensures that our gifts remain with us securely.5. The Mezuzah Story: Blessing Versus Protection
The Gemara relates a story illustrating this concept: A rabbi who was close with a king received precious treasures as a gift from the king. In return, he sent the king a mezuzah. The king was surprised—he had given something of great material value and received what seemed like a simple item in return. The rabbi explained that while he now had to guard his treasures against theft, the mezuzah would actually protect the king himself. Thus, v’yishmarecho—protection—is an essential aspect of any true blessing.6. Gratitude Through All Circumstances
It is vital always to be thankful to Hashem—not only for obvious good but even when things seem less favorable. We accept His judgment as just and true (Baruch Dayan HaEmes—Blessed is the True Judge), trusting that He knows what He is doing. Still, we are fortunate when we can recognize and appreciate His kindness openly. I extend my heartfelt blessings that Hashem should grant everyone only good occasions—simchos, nachas, shalom bayis—peace in the home—and continued learning and growth over many years together.7. Remembering Aryeh Leib ben Pesach Hillel’s Legacy
My father-in-law Aryeh Leib ben Pesach Hillel was a pious man—not especially learned but exceptionally honest and sincere—a true Baal Shem Sker Yid. He attended shul every morning without fail, never spoke during davening, always arrived on time, and maintained his place with seriousness and simplicity. There is much we can learn from his example about how to behave in shul and live an upright life rooted in humility and consistency. May his memory be for a blessing.8. Upcoming Shabbos Events and Communal Blessings
This Shabbos promises many events: Makrensky is sponsoring Kiddush; Cables are marking a first yahrzeit for her father with another Kiddush sponsorship; my wife observes her father’s yahrzeit today as well—all coinciding on Thursday, Yud Sivan—our anniversary day! Baruch wants to join in too with family connections present. Baruch Hashem, there will be much celebration—a large Kiddush, plenty of farbrengen (gathering), good company, perhaps even some mashke (spirits), as no gathering feels complete without it! Most importantly, may all these occasions bring good health, joy, unity among families and friends—and may we continue sharing good tidings together for many years ahead.<|endoftext|>