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In this week’s Parsha Vayeira, we learn about the inhabitants of Sodom and its neighbors who were destroyed because they became very wicked. The Torah states that they were “wicked and sinful against G-d, very much”. However, the wickedness of Sodom and its neighbors was a misguided overreaction to Noah’s flood. The flood generation was wiped out mainly because they practiced and allowed themselves robbery – taking one person’s property by force. The residents of Sodom, who were aware of this, declared absolute private property rights, meaning outlawing charity and hospitality. They saw charity and hospitality as unjust use of another person’s property meaning they took the sin of the flood generation to the extreme to the exact opposite. Total non-use of another person’s property. From this arose their wickedness against charity, kindness, and hospitality.

In their zeal, the people of Sodom did not realize that this reverse extremism was just as destructive as robbery. Therefore, since the world cannot fulfill its purpose of being G-d’s true home without acts of kindness, they acted against the Divine intention. Therefore it was necessary to eliminate Sodom and its neighbors, just like the generation of the flood. Nevertheless, since their intentions, however, were motivated by a desire to do the right thing, the Torah says that these cities will be restored in the Messianic era. It means that when Moshiach is revealed very soon, the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah will also return to being settled!

The connection between Sodom and Gomorrah and the 7 laws of Noah is that these laws are universal moral principles that apply to all human beings. One of these laws is establishing courts and ensuring justice in our world. With every small act of justice, we restore harmony to the world, therefore we must keep the laws of the 7 commandments of the sons of Noah because they maintain the existence of society. On the other hand, a city that acts to the extreme against the laws of 7 Noah’s sons (as seen in the city of Gaza) may find itself in an outcome similar to that of Sodom and Gomorrah.

*This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe.

Rockets have been fired into Israel’s territory many times, but thankfully, few people have been injured. Israel’s enemies, on the other hand, suffered heavy losses as a result of these rockets. These are undoubtedly miracles that demonstrate the extent of heavenly watchfulness over Israel’s land. The Torah (Deuteronomy 11:25) claims that G-d miraculously protects the land of Israel.

Natural miracles are superior to supernatural miracles because they have a higher spiritual foundation and originate from the Creator’s power, which unites nature and miracles, two seemingly incompatible things. The first commandment of Bnei Noah is the recognition that there is a single creator of the world who is taking care of every one of us and fulfilling his promises as given in the Torah.

The recognition of the divine supervision that surrounds us is part of the commandments given to Noahides and can strengthen our faith in the fulfillment of the divine promises to those who keep the seven commandments. The land of Israel is the safest place on earth as it is permanently watched by divine providence. Therefore it is only a matter of time before we see the hand of G-d and a huge winning of the war between the chosen people and the most evil forces on earth.

Our sages say that when you see wars on a global scale this is a sign that Moshiach is about to reveal. It is brought (Psalms 2:1): “Why have nations gathered and why do kingdoms think vain things? Kings of a land stand up, and take counsel together against the Lord and against His Moshiach?” All these are clear signs that we are on the verge of final redemption where the evil of the world will be eliminated and the final battle against Amalek, the greatest irrational anti-Semite throughout the generations will come to an end by his total destruction.

*This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe.

Abraham’s life was a series of tests, and he passed all of them. The tractate Avot states that “Abraham our father was tested in ten tests.” These tests offer an opportunity for people to achieve the impossible and grow into something greater than their usual nature.

Abraham’s test allowed him to break through the constraints of his personality and traits and become something he never thought possible. His story represents the story of each and every one of us. Every moment in this world is a test for the soul, demonstrating a person’s faith in G-d. The test is designed to see how strong the connection to G-d is. Does the soul remain true to itself in the face of a huge challenge: to turn the spiritual darkness of this world into light by keeping the 7 laws of Noah.

The same rule applies both in the lives of Noahides and the Jewish people. When a situation of crisis occurs on a global level, it means that it is necessary to add goodness and divine light to the world. The Land of Israel was given by the Creator of the world to the Jewish people only. Any attempt by non-Jews to dispute this or to take over the territories of the Holy Land by force is a violation of the commandments of the sons of Noah: the prohibition of robbery and murder.

This is a powerful lesson: when we face challenges, we must remember G-d’s presence and that He expects us to overcome them by behaving according to Noah’s 7 laws. Then, difficulties will disappear, and we open the door for Moshiach’s revelation when these values are embraced globally.

*This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe.

In this Torah portion, Lech Lecha we can learn a lesson of how to release captives from evil forces. G‑d commanded Abram to leave his father’s house and homeland, and travel to the land of Israel. G‑d promised to make Abram the patriarch of a great nation. Once Abram arrived in the land of Israel, G‑d informed him that He would eventually give that land to his descendants.

However, a severe famine interrupted Abram’s journey, compelling him to seek refuge in Egypt. Fearing for his life due to his wife Sarai’s beauty, Abram devised a plan for her to claim she was his sister rather than his wife. Tragically, Sarai was taken captive and brought before Pharaoh, the Egyptian king. G‑d struck the members of Pharaoh’s palace with a plague, causing Pharaoh to release Sarai. Pharaoh loaded Abram and Sarai with gifts and riches and had them escorted out of his land. Abram returned to the land of Israel with all the captives.

This theme of freeing captives returned in the narrative of Lot, who had journeyed with Abram. Lot and the inhabitants of Sodom were taken captive, prompting Abram to take immediate action. He led a small force to their rescue, liberating all the captives and recovering the spoils. In response to this act, G-d made a covenant with Abram, promising that his descendants would inherit the land of Israel.

One of the fundamental Noahide commandments is the prohibition against theft. Gentiles are completely forbidden from stealing, be it land, people, or any other form of property belonging to the people of Israel. Violation of this commandment could lead to divine punishment.

The seven Noahide principles of justice, righteousness, and consideration for other people’s property and well-being are emphasized in these stories, which serve as a reminder of our responsibility to free the captives and uphold these principles. It serves as a testimony to the enduring significance of these laws and their timeless relevance for the people of Israel and all humanity.

*This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe.

The Seven Noahide Laws provide a source of guidance and relief in times of anxiety. In times of anxiety, it is typical to seek solace in faith and spirituality. The 7 Noahide laws have been given by G-d to Noah after the flood. These laws are the foundation of human civilization. While the 7 Noahide laws do not explicitly address anxiety, they can provide a framework for leading a meaningful and fulfilling life.

This means acknowledging the existence of G-d who cares about His world. Respecting the value of human life and avoiding murder. Respecting the life of all creatures and avoiding cruelty to animals. Respecting the property of others and avoiding theft. Establishing courts of law and ensuring justice in our world.

By following these laws, one can cultivate a sense of faith and Divine meaning in life, which can help alleviate anxiety. Additionally, spiritual acts such as prayer and charity, can help reduce stress and promote inner peace.

Ultimately, finding relief from anxiety depends on a personal effort; however, the Noahide Laws can be a valuable part of that journey, offering spiritual support during difficult times. The belief in divine providence is part of the first Noahide commandment- not to worship idols. Despite the huge amount of evil in the world, there is nothing besides Him.

Faith in G-d can provide comfort and hope during times of war. It can help people cope with adversity by encouraging them to reframe events through a hopeful lens, fostering a sense of connectedness. In addition, we all have to pray for peace and wisdom that will be found at the highest level in the coming redemption by King Moshiach.

*This is from a series of articles by Rabbi Bernstein Moshe.