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Why does Rashi (רש"י) call the Mishkan 'collateral' for Jewish sins? Using the mashkan concept, the shiur shows that when punishment is deserved, God destroys the Beis Hamikdash instead of destroying us. Even galus reflects divine love - God separates rather than permanently severing the relationship, demonstrating that apparent divine anger masks ultimate protection.
Rabbi Yeshaya Greenberg ZT"L delivers a profound analysis of Bilaam's recognition of God's loving relationship with the Jewish people, even through punishment and apparent separation. The shiur centers on Rashi (רש"י)'s commentary explaining why the Mishkan is called "Mishkan HaEdus" (Tabernacle of Testimony), introducing the concept of "mashkan" (collateral). Just as collateral protects a borrower, God takes the Mishkan and Beis Hamikdash as collateral for the Jewish people's sins. When punishment is deserved, rather than destroying us, God destroys these holy structures instead, demonstrating that even His wrath is tempered by love. The Rabbi explains this through the metaphor of a loving parent who, when overwhelmed with anger at a child's behavior, temporarily separates rather than cause harm. Similarly, when the Jewish people deserve destruction, God sends them into exile or conceals His presence, but this separation itself is an act of love designed to preserve the relationship for the future. The temporary severance of connection prevents permanent destruction.
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Parshas Balak
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