No community start suggestion yet.
What makes something 'reishis' (first) in Torah (תורה) - whether firstborn, first fruits, or the Jewish people? The concept means bearing the strongest imprint of one's source, like early lithograph copies. Rosh Hashanah judgment weighs whether we project God's image recognizably or have devolved to appear animal-like.
Rabbi Zweig presents a profound analysis of the concept of 'reishis' (first/beginning) and its connection to Rosh Hashanah. He begins by noting that while the Torah (תורה) calls the holiday 'Yom Teruah' in the festival passages, it uses 'Rosh Hashanah' in Deuteronomy when discussing God's constant watch over the Land of Israel. The rabbi explores what it means to be 'first' - whether the firstborn child, first fruits (bikkurim), the Jewish people, or the Land of Israel - all called 'reishis' in Torah. The central thesis is that 'reishis' means having the greatest imprint or identifiable mark of its source. Just as the first copy from a master has the strongest impression, or numbered lithographs are most valuable at lower numbers, the firstborn child carries the most identifiable characteristics of the parent. This explains why the firstborn receives a double inheritance - the Torah uses the language 'yakir' (recognize) because the father's identity is most recognizable in the firstborn.
Looking for the full summary?
Full access is available to members of the TUF Alumni Association or the Yam Hagadol Foundation.
Already a member? Let the admin know!
Dedicate a Shiur in Hashkafa
L'ilui nishmas a loved one. In honor of a simcha or yahrzeit. As a zechus for a refuah sheleimah. Your dedication helps carry Rabbi Zweig's Torah to learners around the world.
Why does Megillas Esther interrupt Torah study for a message the world deemed ridiculous—that every man should rule his home? The shiur develops the yesod that the moon's willingness to "make itself small" doesn't diminish it but creates unified sovereignty. A woman who enables her husband to lead isn't relegated to second class—she is the king-maker, comfortable creating oneness where a man cannot.
Does going to doctors contradict relying on Hashem as our healer? The Ramban holds medicine is a concession for those not on high spiritual levels, while the Rambam views medicine as a science—a domain Hashem established. The shiur resolves this by explaining that illness uniquely separates a person from Hashem, making self-cure through teshuvah impossible and necessitating medical intervention.
Rosh Hashanah judgment and the concept of reishis
Looking for the full transcript?
Full access is available to members of the TUF Alumni Association or the Yam Hagadol Foundation.
Already a member? Let the admin know!
