1. The Three Weeks and the Beis Hamikdash
The period known as the Three Weeks, which falls between Shivah Asar b'Tamuz—the 17th of Tamuz—and Tisha B'Av, is a time of mourning for the destruction of the Beis Hamikdash. This year, since the 17th falls on Shabbos, the fast is observed on Sunday, the 18th of Tamuz. During these weeks, we observe special restrictions: no weddings, no haircuts, and we refrain from activities associated with joy. These practices are meant to reflect our sense of loss and mourning. However, the Rebbe always encourages us to find a positive approach even in times of sadness. Instead of simply feeling bad or crying over what was lost, we are urged to take action to help rebuild the Beis Hamikdash. The Rebbe points out that it’s not enough to be content with feeling sensitive or compassionate; true sensitivity should lead us to do something constructive.2. Crying Versus Action: Lessons from Yosef and Binyamin
A powerful example comes from the story of Yosef and Binyamin’s reunion. When they met after years apart, they fell on each other’s necks and cried. Rashi explains that their tears were not just for their personal reunion but for the future destruction of the sanctuaries in each other's territories: Yosef cried for the Beis Hamikdash destined to be destroyed in Binyamin’s portion (Jerusalem), while Binyamin cried for the Mishkan Shiloh in Yosef’s territory. The question arises: why did each cry for the other’s loss rather than their own? The Rebbe explains that when it comes to your own “Beis Hamikdash”—your own spiritual challenges or losses—you shouldn’t just cry; you must take action to fix or build. Crying is appropriate when you see someone else’s suffering that you cannot directly change. This teaches us a broader life lesson: don’t just complain about your own problems—find ways to address them.3. Building the Beis Hamikdash Today: Study and Trust
The Rebbe emphasizes that our role today is not only to mourn but also to actively participate in rebuilding by learning about the Beis Hamikdash and strengthening our trust in Hashem. Studying topics such as Hilchos Beis HaBechira (the laws of building the Temple) from Rambam is considered a form of spiritual construction. Interestingly, most halachic works focus only on laws relevant today, but Rambam includes laws about the Temple even though they are not currently practical. His Mishneh Torah covers all aspects of Torah law, including those pertaining to sacrifices and Temple service. By studying these laws during the Three Weeks, we contribute spiritually to rebuilding. Additionally, we must cultivate bitachon—trust—in Hashem that He will rebuild the Beis Hamikdash and bring Mashiach soon. Our learning and faith are seen as laying bricks for its eventual return.4. The Purpose and Functions of the Beis Hamikdash
Why do we need a rebuilt Beis Hamikdash? There are two main purposes: First, Hashem desires a dwelling place in this world—a physical location where His presence is manifest more intensely than anywhere else. This was realized in both the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and later in Jerusalem’s Beis Hamikdash, where miracles occurred regularly and Divine Presence was openly felt. Second, it served as a center for avodah&mdash>sacrificial service (korbanot). While sacrifices may seem physical or archaic, they have deep spiritual significance—symbolizing self-offering and closeness (korban means “to draw near”). Other services included lighting the menorah (which was itself miraculous), placing showbread (lechem hapanim) on the table, offering incense (ketores), and special Yom Kippur rituals. Today, synagogues serve as miniature sanctuaries (mikdash me'at) where Hashem’s presence can still be accessed through prayer.5. Debates About Mitzvos: Rambam vs Ramban on Building Vessels
There is a classic debate regarding how many mitzvos are involved in building the Beis Hamikdash and its vessels: Rambam counts one mitzvah—“Make for Me a sanctuary”—and considers all details (building an ark, menorah, etc.) as components rather than separate mitzvos. Ramban (Nachmanides) argues that each vessel has its own significance because each service is distinct; however, he agrees with Rambam that constructing vessels isn’t counted separately among 248 positive mitzvos because their purpose is preparatory—a hechsher mitzvah. Just like building a sukkah isn’t itself a mitzvah but eating in it is. Thus, both agree that preparation isn’t counted as an independent mitzvah—the focus is on performing actual service within the sanctuary.6. Who Will Build the Third Beis Hamikdash?
There is discussion about whether Hashem will miraculously bring down a ready-made Third Temple or if Mashiach will build it physically. Some verses suggest Hashem’s hands will make it; others say Mashiach will build it (as ruled by Rambam). The reconciliation offered is that both elements will be present: there will be Divine involvement alongside human effort. Even today’s efforts—such as studying laws or preparing vessels—are considered part of this process; we’re helping lay spiritual foundations for what Hashem will ultimately complete.7. The Power of Teshuvah: Lessons from Parshas Pinchas
Turning to Parshas Pinchas itself, we see an extraordinary lesson about teshuvah—repentance or return. The Torah recounts how Korach led a rebellion against Moshe Rabbeinu and was swallowed up by the earth along with his followers and family—yet later we read about “the sons of Korach” who survived. How did they survive? Rashi explains that although initially involved in Korach’s plot, at the moment of crisis they experienced remorse—a thought of teshuvah in their hearts—which saved them from destruction. These sons later became authors of some profound chapters in Tehillim (Psalms), their songs forming part of King David’s collection. This demonstrates how even those deeply involved in wrongdoing can transform through sincere inner teshuvah—even if unspoken—and rise to great spiritual heights.8. Teshuvah's Transformative Power: From Gehenna to Song
The story continues with fascinating details: while most were swallowed into Gehenna (hell), Korach’s sons were given a special high place—a ledge within Gehenna—because their teshuvah was internal rather than public. Eventually they emerged (according to some opinions) and established families; their descendants became leaders among Levi’im. The Rebbe highlights how even minimal teshuvah—a thought alone—can rescue someone from dire consequences and lead them toward redemption. This serves as encouragement for our generation: after so much exile and sacrifice, even one sincere thought can tip us into redemption with Mashiach Tzidkeinu—may it be speedily in our days!