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How do the final verses of Shir HaShirim capture the arc from exile to redemption? The shiur reads the vineyard allegory as Hashem (ה׳) entrusting Israel to gentile 'keepers' who exploit rather than protect, yet divine justice will demand repayment with interest. Even in exile, Israel's natural habitat remains the study halls where angels gather to hear Torah (תורה).
This shiur provides an in-depth analysis of the concluding verses of Shir HaShirim (Song of Songs) chapter 8, verses 11-14, interpreting them as an allegory for Israel's experience in exile and ultimate redemption. Rabbi Zweig begins with verse 11, 'A vineyard belonged to Shlomo in Baal Hamon,' explaining that Shlomo represents the King of Peace (referring to Hashem (ה׳)), and the vineyard symbolizes Klal Yisrael. Baal Hamon is identified as Jerusalem, called thus because of its multitude of inhabitants, emphasizing Jerusalem's significance not only as the site of the Temple but also as a royal city. The analysis continues with the interpretation that Hashem delivered the vineyard (Israel) into the hands of the 'keepers' (the gentile nations), specifically the four kingdoms that would rule over Israel during exile. These nations would extract every possible tax and tribute - head taxes, business taxes, and land taxes - exploiting Israel for their own benefit. The irony is noted that these 'keepers' were supposed to guard Israel but instead exploited them, though their self-interest ensured some protection.
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Why did Hashem insist on giving us Eretz Yisrael rather than creating a new land for us? The shiur explores a Midrash that claims Hashem wanted to show His power by defeating our enemies. This creates an ongoing divine commitment to protect us in a hostile environment where the nations perceive us as thieves of their land.
Why did Shlomo HaMelech combine intellect, physical pleasure, and chukim after each approach individually failed? The shiur develops that humans must acknowledge both their physical nature and spiritual capacity simultaneously. Chukim (called "foolishness" here) teach us to act for internal meaning rather than external approval.
Shir HaShirim 8:11-14
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