Dovid Saks

Author's posts

Nov 15

Moving Sidewalks!

The speed of travelling was greatly advanced with the advent of mechanical and fuel powered engines. Before that, the speed of travel was limited to walking or using animals and ships. However, the Talmud points out that there were two trips referred to in the Torah, when high-speed travel was employed. When Eliezer travelled out …

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Nov 08

More to the Story!

Our Patriarch Avraham earned the distinguished title of Forefather of the Jewish people by consistently displaying his devotion to G-d and mankind. G-d personally blessed Avraham and He conferred this blessing onto his son Yitzchok as well. The deserving recipient of the Patriarchal blessing received an unbounded and eternal relationship between himself and the Almighty …

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Nov 01

Gift of Speech!

This past Tuesday evening the Scranton Jewish Community Center hosted a community wide vigil in response to the horrific attack in Pittsburgh this past Shabbos. It was attended by over 500 people. Many non-Jews participated as a gesture of solidarity with us. I was given the opportunity to address the gathering and these are my …

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Oct 25

Shabbat Mega Winnings!

Today I’m three dollars richer. This is because I didn’t play the Powerball lottery even though when I see a significantly large jackpot I usually do so. If you ask me, why didn’t I? I have two explanations. Firstly, I figured if I would win the largest jackpot it would place too much unwarranted focus …

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Oct 17

Against the Tide!

Our forefather Avraham earned his title as progenitor of the Jewish people due to his unswerving devotion to G-d. Avraham spread the awareness of G-d to the masses and loyally and devotedly listened to G-d’s instruction – even when it appeared to be in conflict or paradoxical to his moral beliefs or to what G-d …

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Oct 11

Major Impact!

G-d decided to destroy the world 1656 years after it was created because it had become corrupted beyond repair. Except for what was preserved on the Ark, all mankind, animal life and vegetation was destroyed. The only human life preserved on the Ark was Noach, his wife Na’ama, their three sons, and their wives. At …

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Oct 04

Distinction & Purpose!

When someone or something is given a name or title, he or it is given an identity and a certain reality. The Torah states that during the seven days of creation of the world G-d specifically called or named six things: Light, night (darkness), the waters, the sky, the earth and Adam – man. After …

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Sep 27

Stay With Me!

During the Holiday of Succos we observe and experience many Mitzvos while in a state of happiness; the Succah, the four species, the recitation of Hallel. During the time when the Temple in Jerusalem was functioning, there was a great celebration on each night of Succos accompanied by music, dancing and singing. This took place …

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Sep 20

A Beautiful Fruit!

The Holiday of Succos, almost immediately following the days of awe, is a joyous time. We feel a sense of confidence and relief now that we have been cleansed and forgiven for our sins. To express this feeling of joy, the Torah commands us to take the four species, an Esrog (citron), Lulav (palm branch), …

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Sep 13

Keep Focused!

Jonathan Rosenbloom brought out the following point in an article he wrote in the wake of the September 11th attacks: The coming of Moshiach is a fundamental belief of Judaism. But even one whose belief is firm might find it difficult to imagine how his coming will unfold, and how all people and nations will …

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