Rest in peace - Vayechi

I regret to inform you that another week has passed and Moshiach isn't here! On a more serious note, my principal Rabbi Hertzberg ZTL passed away and Klal Yisroel lost a true hero! I hope that we can bring geulah and be reunited with him very soon!

Just imagine not being able to learn anymore. Everything that you worked on for your entire life is now out of grasp. When a person dies, he leaves behind a mission statement that he was in middle of completing. In order for that mission to be completed, the family and friends need to complete it. While your success isn't lost and the effect you had on people will forever be recognized, you will not have any power to continue the way you used to. For example: since a person who passed away can't learn or do mitzvos, we have an obligation to learn and do mitzvos in their honor.

In this week’s parsha, we read about Yaakov and his preparation to leave this earth physically. Before he passed on, he gave each of his sons specific instructions and ideas about the tribes that they were to lead. For example, Shimon was to create schoolteachers. The idea is that although Yaakov isn't around anymore in a physical body, his legacy will never end. Furthermore, by continuing Yaakov’s missions, we can keep him alive spiritually!

When someone passes away, we have a unique opportunity to take part in that person’s mission. Join me today as I do something in memory of our loved ones. With this effort, we can keep them alive while doing a mitzva that will take us a step closer towards geulah!

Good Shabbos

Moshiach Now

All the best!

Avroham Y Ross