Princely Perception & Presentation
The Torah’s identical repetition of the Inaugural Offerings brought by Israel’s tribal leaders, serves to make parshat Naso the longest Torah portion. Perhaps more pointedly though, it seems entirely superfluous; especially in view of the Scripture’s sparing nature. Yet, despite this obvious and glaring biblical anomaly; Rashi – our trusted master of mainstream meaning – appears to provide little rationale and no comfort at all. The explanation ultimately sheds light on Torah-true diversity and the importance of every person’s unique contribution in the rubric of spiritual life and divine service.
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| Topics: | The Tribal Leaders Inaugural Gifts, Naso |
Rabbi Mendel Kaplan is the Spiritual Leader and Executive Director of Chabad Flamingo in Thornhill, Ontario, serving one of Canada’s most dynamic Jewish communities. He also serves as Chaplain of the York Regional Police Service. He is an active member of Toronto’s Vaad HaRabbanim (Council of Orthodox Rabbis), and a voting member of the COR Kashruth Council of Canada’s executive rabbinical board. Rabbi Kaplan is featured regularly on many local television and radio shows. He is a sought after speaker, with hundreds of lectures on Chabad.org. He and his wife, Faygie, are blessed with eight children. Artistically endowed, the rabbi enjoys drawing, sketching and creating charcoal portraits.
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