The Torah warns us in Perek 19, Pasuk 19, to keep the Chukim, (statutes) and proceeds to specify the prohibitions of kilayim; crossbreeding animals, planting mixed seeds, and wearing sha’atnez, garments containing both wool and linen. ( “Es chukosai tishmoru”) A discussion ensues amongst the commentaries regarding the precise nature of a “chok”, as opposed to a “mishpat”, an ordinance.

Rashi explains that the cited mitzvos are indicative of chukim, describing them as decrees of the “King” for which there are no reasons.

The Ramban clarifies the matter and states that chukim must have reasons, for every word of Hashem has meaning and reason, yet they were described as “absent of reason” by Chazal because their purpose and benefit are not revealed, and perhaps difficult for man to grasp. A king enacts laws without revealing their reasons, and his subjects accept them despite their difficulty in understanding a true purpose. Chazal tell us that man’s own yaitzer hara, evil inclination, along with the idol worshippers, question chukim, due to their apparent lack of purpose, thereby challenging one’s religious commitment. Mishpatim, on the other hand, are consistent with social and ethical justice as viewed by the average human being, and are readily conformable. The Ramban concludes, stating that all mitzvos have a reason and a benefit.

The Ramban in Devarim, Perek 22, Pasuk 6, regarding the mitzvah of “kan tzipor”, elaborates, stating that the benefit from mitzvos are for man himself, and not for Hashem’s sake, whether it be recalling the great miracles performed by Hashem, preventing man from harm, teaching true beliefs, or perfecting one’s character. Aside from the reward from Hashem that one might receive, there is a reason, benefit, and an aspect of perfection for man in each and every mitzvah, including chukim.

This fundamental principle that all mitzvos have reasons and thereby benefit mankind relates well with another “classic” Ramban cited at the outset of Parshas Kedoshim, “Kedoshim tihyu”. The Ramban writes that the Torah instructs us to be “holy” by sanctifying ourselves in areas that are permitted, (as opposed to Rashi who learns it refers to abstaining and guarding oneself from immorality) by exhibiting self control and separating from indulgence and obsession, living a life of moderation with respect to the physical world. One can passionately engage in a hedonistic life style and not violate a single prohibition, living as a “naval birshus Hatorah, a despicable and shameful person with “permission” of the Torah. This individual has not violated a single prohibition, yet fails to realize that the ultimate purpose of the mitzvos is to benefit man and perfect him, and thereby desecrates and defiles the Divine aspect of his existence, his Tzelem Elokim, which demands seeking spiritual, rather than physical endeavors.

It is solely through this realization and understanding that the commandments are not merely mechanical rituals, but are rather vehicles to ultimately teach “shlaimus haadam”, perfection of man, that man can fulfill his command to be sanctified, being Hashem is holy, and your God. (“Ki kadosh ani hashem Elokaichem”)

Good Shabbos

Rabbi Avi Haar

Yom Hazikaron is a very important day for all Jews around the world. Israel is our homeland and we need people to protect it. The brave young men and women of Tzahal are those people. They selflessly protect the whole Jewish nation by protecting our homeland - Eretz Yisroel. In observance of the day, Rambam students gathered for an assembly during which Rabbi Eliach spoke very moving words about the sacrifices made by those who serve. He introduced a film about Michael Levin, a soldier in the Israeli army who was originally from America. In the documentary Michael Levin recalls always having the desire to make aliya and join the IDF. He happened to be in the USA when the second war with Lebanon broke out. He was insistent in his desire to return to Israel and rejoin his unit. Upon his return to Israel, he requested to be positioned at the front; to be one of the first soldiers in. His request was denied as all the front positions had been assigned, but he was persistent and they eventually let him go into Lebonon. He was shot down and killed at the very beginning of battle. As one of the few Americans, Michael Levin was somewhat alone as a soldier in Israel. His parents thought they would not even have a minyan for his funeral and yet there were more than one thousand people crying with the Levins over their loss. “This is just one story of one soldier. Multiply this by all the all the soldiers lost and then you will understand.” said one student.

Rambam students also participated in reading the ALL THE NAMES OF THE LOST SOLDIERS at Cedarhurst Park. When asked how he felt reading the names one student responded, “I feel like we are at least trying to give these heroes the respect they deserve.”

Sunday, April 25 - Varsity and JV Softball Softball @ HANC - 3:00 PM

Thursday, April 29 - JV College Bowl Championship

Friday, April 30 - JV Softball VS DRS @ Grant Park - 1:00 PM

Friday, April 30 - JV Softball VS HAFTR @ Grant Park - 3:00 PM

Friday, April 30 - V Softball VS Ateres Yaakov @ North Woodmere - 1:00 & 3:00 PM

Mazel Tov to Rabbi Yigal Sasportas on the birth of a daughter, Chanah Gittel.