The first two parshiot of "kriyat shma" surround us each and
every day of our lives. Not only do we recite them at least twice
daily, but they are also written on every doorpost (i.e. on every
"mezuzah"), and in the boxes of our "tfilin." What makes them so
special?
This week's shiur, which analyzes the overall structure of the
main speech of Sefer Devarim, we help us better appreciate why
specifically these two parshiot are so important.
Global warming? This summer's 'hot' topic uncovers a direct
connection between our climate and mankind's 'physical' behavior.
However, according to Parshat Ekev, man's 'spiritual' behavior may
also affect our climate - at least in regard to the 'land of
Israel.'
To explain why, this week's shiur explores the significance of
"matar" (rain) in Chumash.