Community Newsletter - Cong. Shaarei Tefilah

Ekev – Mevarchim | Elul 22 -29 Menachem Av 5776

Friday, August 26, 2016 - 12:22 PM

Fri Aug 26^th – Erev Shabbos //Tu b’Av
Shacharis: 7 am
Mincha/Candles/Maariv 7:42 pm

Sat Aug 27^th - Shabbos Mevarchim
Tehilim for Mevarchim Elul 8am
Shacharis: 9:30 am (Latest Shema 9:46 am)
Mincha 7:40 /Seuda Slishit/ PIRKEI AVOS № 4/
Maariv/Havdala 8:39 pm

Weekdays
Sunday Shacharis 9 am
Mon- Fri Shacharis 7 am
Mon-Thu Mincha/Maariv 7:40 pm /Repeat Shema after 8:30 pm/

MAZEL TOV MAZEL TOV
Mazel Tov to Michoel and Ilana Levin and Shimon and Tova Cox on the marriage of Hershel andMeirav. May they merit to build a bayis ne’eman b’Yisroel!

MAZEL TOV MAZEL TOV
Mazel Tov to Dr. Vernon Neppe on being honored together with his colleague Dr. Close with the coveted 2016 Whiting Memorial Award for “expanding boundaries of scientific understanding”. The Whiting Memorial Fund is a philanthropic fund administered by the International Society for Philosophical Enquiry (‘ISPE’) (www.thethousand.com) to “reward individuals and groups, whose accomplishments and goals exemplify the ideals of ISPE”. . Dr Neppe attained the highest public level of ‘Diplomate of the ISPE’ (where there are about 2 dozen worldwide). Dr Neppe andDr Close previously received the well-respected Gabino Barreda Award and medal involving the earlier version of their critically important metaparadigm “Triadic Dimensional Distinction VorticalParadigm” (TDVP).

The Month of Elul - Ha’Melech b’Sodeh – The King is in the field
In his Song of Songs, King Solomon writes a most eloquent and deep passage representing a multitude of relationships. The verse “I am my Beloved’s and my Beloved is mine” (Song of Songs 6:3) is an immediate allusion to the month of Elul, for in its original Hebrew, “Ani ledodi v’dodi li,” the letters beginning each word serve as an acronym for this month. Elul is the month precedingTishrei, the beginning of the Jewish year, starting with the holiday of Rosh Hashanah and culminating with the festival of Hoshana Rabbah. It is during the month of Elul that we try and focus on our past year, reflecting on our deeds, atoning for our mistakes and contemplating our actions and changes for the new year to come. Therefore, as we will see, this statement of King Solomon’s is not only a statement between two lovers but, more importantly, represents our relationship with our Creator. During this month G-d actually empowers us to ask for His forgiveness
http://www.chabad.org/kabbalah/article_cdo/aid/379688/jewish/With-the-King-in-the-Field.htm

KIDDUSH SHABBOS
There is again a gala Kiddush/Sheva Brachot meal this Shabbat, in recognition of Shabbat MevochimElul and in order to honor and celebrate the wedding this week of Hershel and Meirav Cox!! Kiddush is sponsored by Tova and Shimon Cox. Come join us in congratulating the newlyweds and the Cox and Levin families in their simcha!
Seuda Slishit is sponsored by Shimon Dershowitz in honor of the Levin and Cox families on the occasion of the marriage of Herschel and Meirav !

LADIES TEHILIM – SUN 10 am
Come say Tehilim

THE NORTH SEATTLE ERUV STATUS: -PENDING
For current status of the North Seattle Eruv, please check the flag on the NE 65^th Street side of CSTL, (green flag means the Eruv is up, red flag the Eruv is down), CSTL eNews, or the Vaad eNews. Visit our web site www.twitter.com/cstleruv for current status.

SUNDAY MORNING BRUNCH WITH RABBI MENDY LEVITIN – SUN 4 SEPT 10 am
Our next Sunday morning special guest lecture at CSTL will be Sunday in 2 weeks on 4 September 2016 at 10am to 11.30 (1 Elul 5776) . Please save the date and please do not organize competitive parties and other events at the same time. I know it's the Labor Day Weekend, but we've gone through many options to find a date. It's also Rosh Chodesh Elul so very special. Our next honored speaker will be Rabbi Mendy Levitin who will talk on the topic of The Month of Elul. Rabbi Mendy has been with us from Israel this past year, and is a wonderful communicator and very knowledgeable. Mendy and his wife Leah lived in Yerushalayim for over 18 years, and they have six wonderful children (k"eh). Please join us for a Bagel and Lox breakfast before after Shacharit (at 10am) 10.15am promptly our lecture begins. Education Chair – Dr. Vernon Neppe

NEW CSTL PLAYGROUND
Recently we received a large donation from an anonymous family towards the construction of an outdoor playground. We are looking to form a committee to help plan with the design and construction. We are also looking for donations for the project. If you are interested in getting involved with our Playground project let me know. Good Shabbos, Mike Weichbrodt

WEEKLY CLASS ON PRAYER WITH RABBI EMLEN – TUE EVE
Prayer is very important! Please join Rabbi Emlen for a practical and inspiring class focusing each week on a single prayer. At the Green’s [email protected]

Weekly Talmud Class with Rabbi Levitin – Every Sunday following 9am Shacharis
Gemora Baba Basra with Rabbi Levitin after 9 am Shacharis

Men’s Mikvah annual Dues are Due Annually on Elul 1^st
$440/daily, $220/weekly, $100/holiday only. Paying for one visit is not an option if you live in this community. Visitors pay $2.50 for single use. You can go to http://www.CSTLSeattle.org to make your payment online with your credit card.

Weekly Women’s Class on Jewish History with Chani Levitin Tue 7:30 pm
At the home of Rabbi & Chanie Levitin, 6519 49th Ave NE, info: [email protected]

KIDDUSH SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE
If you would like to sponsor Kiddush at CSTL, please contact Ivan Rothman, Gabbai Kiddush,[email protected] . Please inform Ivan by the preceding Sunday evening so that we have time to prepare properly. Prices: Sponsor $300, co-Sponsor $150, Contributor: $50-$149.

THANK YOU TO JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER SEATTLE
Funding for CSTL Outreach Program was made possible, in part, by a grant from the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle. Please donate to JFGS at https://www.jewishinseattle.org/donate

COMMUNITY NEWS

Sephardic Grand Bazaar Sun Sept 11^th 9 am - 3 pm|
At Sephardic Bikur Holim,

Elementary School Kids at the Kline Galland Home – Sun Sept 25 from 1 to 3 pm
Bring Pre-Rosh Hashana Joy to our Elders ! For more info and to RSVP – [email protected]

BCMH Annual Hakadosh BBQ Mon, Sep. 5^th
Featuring "Willie's Taste of Soul". Full BBQ, Beer Garden, Community Cookoff, Bounce House, Video Game Truck, entertainment and more. Register by August 28 and get the Earlybird Discount on admission for the whole family. Register & pre-order at: www.bcmhseattle.org or https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hakadosh-bbq-tickets-26810210060

Mishmar Chavura with Rabbi Avi Rosenfeld Thu 9pm - 11pm
Parsha Learning and Discussion. Everyone welcome to join the conversation. 5240 38th Ave. NE. Snacks served

Welcome Dinner for Rabbi Yaakov & Aliza Tanenbaum Sun Sept 18th 7 pm
Welcome BCMH’s new Rabbi and his wife. www.BCMHSeattle.org

NEED A DRIVER – CALL GERSHON!
For all your transportation needs, call Gershon Grashin (206) 856-2754

SICHO FOR THE SHABBOS EKEV
http://www.sie.org/templates/sie/article_cdo/aid/2507731/jewish/Shabbos-Parshas-Eikev-23rd-Day-of-Menachem-Av-5751-1991.htm © Chabad.org

1. This Shabbos is the Shabbos on which the month of Elul is blessed. Elul is the last month of the year and therefore, has been set aside as a month to review our service throughout the entire previous year. The connection to the totality of our service is alluded to in the name Elul for its Hebrew letters (אלול) are interpreted to be an acronym for the words of the Hebrew phrase (אני לדודיודודי לי) meaning “I am my Beloved’s and my Beloved is mine,” thus emphasizing the connection between a person (“I”) and G‑d (“my Beloved”).

In particular, this connection is twofold in nature, involving the arousal of the Jews in establishing a connection to G‑d — and thereby elevating the earthly plane — through the service of Torah and mitzvos. This is alluded to in the phrase “I am my Beloved’s.” Similarly, this connection includes the drawing down of influence and assistance from Above as reflected in the phrase, “my Beloved is mine.”

Although the above acronym mentions both services, it begins with “I am my Beloved’s,” which reflects the arousal of the Jewish people.¹ This is the foundation of all service, that even before there is a revelation from Above, a Jew should begin serving G‑d on his own initiative.

The ultimate purpose of man’s creation and the descent of his soul into this world is to serve G‑d on his own initiative. And furthermore, through such service, man derives his most satisfying pleasure. It is human nature, that of the gentiles as well as the Jews, to appreciate something that they have worked for and earned.² Conversely, something which they have not worked for is regarded as “bread of shame.”

There is also an arousal from Above that makes possible the service of Elul and in this vein, Elul is described as the month when G‑d’s Thirteen Attributes of Mercy are revealed and the month when “the King is in the field.” These influences, however, are merely preparatory in nature. The essence of Elul is the arousal of love by the Jewish people, and it is this awakening which calls forth revelation from Above, “my Beloved is mine.”

Since service on one’s own initiative is the primary element of man’s service throughout the entire year, this is the service emphasized in the month of Elul, the month in which one takes stock of one’s service as a whole.³ And it is through this service that we call forth a higher level of Divine level which is reflected in the blessings of the new year.

Nevertheless, despite the emphasis on service on one’s own initiative, since both thrusts — i.e., also the revelation from Above — are alluded to in the name Elul, it follows that the stocktaking which is carried out this month must focus on both these thrusts. For there are services carried out by the Jewish people which reflect the thrust of revelation from Above and carrying out these services facilitates the ultimate aspect of revelation from Above, “my Beloved is mine,” G‑d’s manifestation of love for the Jews.⁴

The importance of taking stock of both these services is reflected in the fact that there are always two days Rosh Chodesh to the month of Elul. In particular, this year when these two days fall on Shabbos and Sunday, the connection to these two services is highlighted. Sunday reflects the service of elevating the earthly plane, while Shabbos represents the revelation of holiness from Above.

This is reflected in the narrative of creation (a narrative which, in the spiritual sense, repeats itself every week). Sunday was the first day of creation, the beginning of the existence of the worldly plane. And from that day, we proceed day after day, in a process of elevation and refinement preparing for Shabbos as our Sages said, “Whoever toils on erev Shabbos (which in an expanded sense refers to all the days of the week), will eat on Shabbos.”

Shabbos, in contrast, is a day of spiritual pleasure and, furthermore, this pleasure is revealed and drawn down into even the material entities of this world. And it is from the Shabbos that “all the days of the coming week are blessed,” i.e., the influence of Shabbos contains the positive factors that will become manifest in the week to come.⁵

Since everything in the world, even the very fundamental elements of existence were brought into being “for the sake of the Jewish people” and “for the sake of the Torah,” it follows that a parallel to both these approaches exists within a Jew’s Divine service.

A Jew is made up of a soul — “an actual⁶ part of G‑d from Above” — and a body — a physical entity stemming from dust.⁷ From the perspective of the body, there is a need for the service of elevating the physical plane, and that this service be a step-by-step process as reflected in the manner in which we proceed, day by day going further in the task of refinement. In contrast, from the perspective of the soul, the service is one of revelation from Above, beginning on the highest spiritual levels and drawing them down into this world. Each individual is capable of this service and should demand such a service of himself.

The two services are interrelated. Even on those days which are characterized by holiness and service which is above the limitations of man, one must not lose total sight of one’s material environment. Thus these days are also counted as days of the week, i.e., as a Sunday, or a Monday. Similarly, while the Beis HaMikdash was standing, in addition to the special sacrifices offered on these days, the daily offering which was sacrificed each day of the year was also brought.

Conversely, a Jew begins his service each day, even on a weekday, with the declaration, Modeh Ani in which he thanks G‑d for returning his soul, i.e., there is an emphasis on revelation from Above. This connection of Shabbos, revelation from Above, to the days of the week is also reflected in our Sages’ statement that Shamai the Elder would always eat “in honor of the Shabbos.” If he saw a choice animal on the first day of the week, he would purchase it for Shabbos. If, afterwards, he would find an even more choice one, he would purchase that one for Shabbos and use the first for the weekday meals. In this manner, every moment of his existence was associated with the Shabbos.

In general, these two paths of service can be identified with the two general categories of Yissacherand Zevulun. Yissacher, the students of the Torah, are associated with the service of revelation from Above. In contrast, the lifework of Zevulun, those involved in commerce and financial activity, is one of elevating the world and the natural environment in which they are found.

As mentioned above, of these two service, the service of elevating the earthly plane, and in doing so serving G‑d on one’s own initiative, is of fundamental importance. This is also reflected in the observance of the two days of Rosh Chodesh Elul this year. The first day of Rosh Chodesh Elul is the thirtieth day of the month of Av. The month of Elul itself begins on the second day of Rosh Chodeshand it is on that day that the blowing of the shofar and other customs associated with Elul begin. And thus, it is significant that the second day of Rosh Chodesh Elul falls on Sunday, the day associated with the beginning of the service of elevating the material plane.

To explain this concept in greater depth: Since “G‑d desired a dwelling in the lower worlds,” the fundamental service we render to Him must take place with the context of these worlds, following the natural order established within creation. Such a service is characterized by gradual progression, going from one level to the next, beginning from Sunday, the first day.

Although a Jew has a soul which is “an actual part of G‑d” — and it is because he possesses this soul that he can carry out this service of elevating the earthly realm — that soul has been enclothed in a physical body. As the soul is enclothed within the body, it is limited by the body and the natural limits of the world. And thus its service must begin on this plane. And it is through this service of “I am my Beloved’s,” a Jew’s affirming his commitment to G‑d and elevating his material environment⁸ that he fulfills the ultimate intent of all creation, to establish a dwelling for G‑d in this material world.

Based on the above, we can resolve a related question: Since man was created on the sixth day of existence, seemingly, he should begin his reckoning of the week from that day. Why do we begin counting the week from Sunday?⁹ To emphasize how the essential goal of our service is transforming this world into a dwelling for G‑d. And focus is drawn to this goal by beginning our weekly counting, not from Friday when the creation of the world reaches a state of completion, but from Sunday, the beginning stage of service.

This service transforms the world into a dwelling for G‑d’s essence, a place where the most fundamental aspect of His being is revealed. Just as in the creation of the world, it is only G‑d’s essence that could bring into existence the material reality which exists, so too, it is G‑d’s essence that will come into expression in the dwelling established in this world.¹⁰ And furthermore, this service brings about greater revelation in the spiritual realms.

Similarly, it is through this service that a Jew taps the essence of his soul. When the soul is enclothedin the body and works to elevate the material environment, the essence of the soul is revealed. And at the same time, this service elevates all the higher levels of the soul. To express this in allegory, when a building is lifted up from below, every aspect of the building is elevated.

Based on the above, we can conclude that the stocktaking of our service which must be made in the month of Elul should be threefold, focusing on the service carried out by man on his own initiative, elevating the worldly realm, the service involved with revelation from Above, and the fusion of these two thrusts.

Each of the services, elevation of the earthly realm and revelation from Above possesses an advantage lacking in the other. The service carried out by man on his own initiative is internalized by him and becomes part of his own thinking processes. It is, however, restricted by our human limitations; even the revelation from Above which this service evokes is limited in nature.

In contrast, the revelation from Above reveals an aspect of Jew’s soul that is above our ordinary worldly limits. This level, however, is not internalized with our thinking processes. Therefore, the ultimate level of fulfillment involves a fusion of both these services. This results from a revelation of G‑d’s essence which, in turn, is brought about by the arousal of the essential potential in man, the awakening of “I am my Beloved’s.” This allows the revelations which transcend our framework of reference to be expressed and to be internalized within that framework.

Thus a Jew must make an accounting and see if in fact he has turned to G‑d on his own initiative and what is the extent to which he has been able to elevate his surrounding environment. Similarly, he must make a reckoning of the manner in which he has used the revelations imparted to him from Above, the revelations that stem from the essential G‑dliness of his soul. And he must also take stock and see whether he has been able to fuse the two, combining “I am my Beloved’s” with “my Beloved is mine.”

This stocktaking is not only individual in nature, but effects the world at large. As the Rambam writes, a single mitzvah performed by one individual has the power to tip the balance of the entire world and bring salvation and deliverance.

2. Our service of stocktaking must also relate to the Future Redemption, for it is the responsibility of the Jewish people to bring about this redemption. According to all the signs mentioned by our Sages, the redemption should have come. And therefore, our energies are focused on this goal. Herein, there is a connection to this week’s Torah reading, Parshas Eikev, which relates to the present time period, described as Ikvesa diMeshicha. There are two interpretations of this term: a) The first focuses on the more common meaning of the word eikev, “heel,” the least sensitive portion of the body. Thus IkvesadiMeshicha refers to the lowest of all levels in the spiritual history of the Jewish people, a generation characterized by a redoubled spiritual darkness, in which all the undesirable omens which our Sages said would precede the Era of the Redemption have taken place. b) Eikev also means “after.” Thus it refers to the end of the exile, the time directly before Mashiach’s coming. This surely refers to our generation, for to borrow an expression used by the Previous Rebbe, we have already “polished the buttons,” i.e., all the service demanded of us has been completed and we are on the threshold of the Redemption. And therefore, in anxious expectation of the time when G‑d will take the Jews out of exile and bring them to Eretz Yisrael, we cry out, Ad Maasei, “Until when, will we be forced to remain in exile.”

The two interpretations of the term Ikvesa diMeshicha are interrelated. It is precisely when the Jews have reached the low levels implied by the first interpretation, that the ultimate fulfillment promised by the second interpretation will be realized.¹¹

In this light, the stocktaking which we must carry out in the month of Elul, must also focus on the imminence of the Redemption. A Jew has the potential to arouse himself, to arouse others, and to arouse G‑d, Himself, as it were. As mentioned, according to all the signs given by our Sages, and definitely in the light of the miracles which we have witnessed recently, the ultimate Redemption should have come already, and in this year. For the miracles described in theYalkut Shimoni are to take place in “the year in which the King Mashiach will be revealed.”

Furthermore, Mashiach’s coming will be hastened by the positive influence of the study of Hilchos Beis HaBechirah, the laws of the Construction of the BeisHaMikdash. G‑d has promised that our study of these laws will be considered equivalent to the actual building of the BeisHaMikdash. Indeed, the Beis HaMikdash is completely built in the spiritual realms and all that is necessary is to cause it to descend here to this earth.

Moreover, it is also after the fifteenth of Av, a day associated with an increase in Torah study.¹² And it is the Shabbos on which the month of Elul is blessed. Elul is the time when “the King is in the field” and there He receives all His subjects happily and grants all their requests. Thus this is a time when we have the potential and the responsibility to call out to G‑d and demand, Ad Maasei, “Until when must we remain in exile.”

Vaeschanan - Nachamu | 15-22 Menachem Av 5776

Friday, August 19, 2016 - 12:46 AM

Fri Aug 19^th – Erev Shabbos //Tu b’Av
Shacharis: 7 am /NO TACHANUN/
Mincha/Candles/Maariv 7:55 pm

Sat Aug 20^th - Shabbos Nachamu
Shacharis: 9:30 am (Latest Shema 9:41 am)
Mincha 7:40 /Seuda Slishit/
Maariv/Havdala 8:58 pm

Weekdays
Sunday Shacharis 9 am
Mon- Fri Shacharis 7 am
Mon-Thu Mincha/Maariv 7:50 pm /Repeat Shema after 8:43 pm/

MAZEL TOV MAZEL TOV
Mazel Tov to Michoel and Ilana Levin and Shimon and Tova Cox on the upcoming marriage of Hershel and Meirav. May they merit to build a bayis ne’eman b’Yisroel!

MAZEL TOV MAZEL TOV
Mazel Tov to Rabbi Shimon and Meira Emlen on the Upshern of their son Mendel. Mazel Tov to Ben and Sarah Dershowitz on the Upshern of their son Efraim Alter. May they merit to raise them to Torah,Mitzvot, and Ma’asim Tovim!

Shabbos Kallah for Meirav Levin this Shabbos at the Levin home - 6:30 pm
Ladies are invited to the Shabbos Kallah in celebration of the upcoming marriage of Meirav Levin to Herschel Cox, Shabbos afternoon 6:30 pm, at the home of Ilana and Michoel Levin, 6222 44th Ave NE. Mazel Tov Mazel Tov!

Auf Ruf of Herschel Cox
The entire community is invited to celebrate the Auf Ruf of Herschel Cox, this Shabbos at CSTL. Shacharis from 9:30 am. Mazel Tov Mazel Tov! Mazel Tov Mazel Tov!

SHABBAT NACHAMU
The Shabbat after the Ninth of Av is called Shabbat Nachamu ("Shabbat of Consolation") after the opening words of the day's reading from the prophets ("haftara"). This is the first of the series of readings known as "The Seven of Consolation" read in the seven weeks from the Ninth of Av to Rosh Hashanah. www.chabad.org

Shabbat Nachamu - Friday night Fundraiser BBQ
We will be serving Jeff's Gourmet sausages, burgers, and a special brisket from Shuky Meyer with his amazing homemade spice rub. Services begin at 6:30 followed immediately by dinner in the downstairs social hall. Payment is required in advance. If you are unable to attend, please consider making a donation!
Please take a minute to click on this link: https://cstlbbq.eventbrite.com/ and sign up. It's important that we have an accurate headcount as well! If you are able to volunteer to help with this event or interested in sponsoring, please reach out directly to me or Mike. Thank you! Chani Meyer

KIDDUSH SHABBOS
CSTL gladly announces that we are having a gala Kiddush with bread for washing this week, ShabbatNachamu! Kiddush is being sponsored by Shimon and Tova Cox and Rabbi Avraham and SprintzeKavka, in honor of Herschel Cox's aufruf this Shabbat! The entire CSTL community wishes to congratulate and wish Mazal Tov to Meirav Levin and Herschel, and the entire Cox and Levin families on the couple's upcoming wedding this week! The Kavka family also wishes to say "Tzeischem L'Shalom - Farewell and Good Luck" to Rabbi Cheski and Chava Edelman (and their children) as they head to Milwaukee, Wisconsin for their new shlichus. Seuda Slishit is sponsored by Rabbi Levitin, Shimon Dershowitz, and Chezky Larsh in honor of Shabbos Nachamu

LADIES TEHILIM – SUN 10 am
Come say Tehilim

THE NORTH SEATTLE ERUV STATUS: -PENDING
For current status of the North Seattle Eruv, please check the flag on the NE 65^th Street side of CSTL, (green flag means the Eruv is up, red flag the Eruv is down), CSTL eNews, or the Vaad eNews. Visit our web site www.twitter.com/cstleruv for current status.

Estrin Family Seudas Hoda'ah Tuesday, August 23^rd 7:00-9:00PM
You are cordially invited to a Seudas Hoda'ah at CSTL in thanks for all Hashem's miracles and prayers for the future for our son Nissi (Nesanel Ben Chaya Rochel) . Dinner and special guest speaker, RabbiBenyomin Walters (of Chicago) followed by a farbrengen. We look forward to celebrating with you! Rabbi Elie and Chaya Estrin and family. Please RSVP: [email protected]

WEEKLY CLASS ON PRAYER WITH RABBI EMLEN – TUE EVE
Prayer is very important! Please join Rabbi Emlen for a practical and inspiring class focusing each week on a single prayer. At the Green’s [email protected]

Weekly Talmud Class with Rabbi Levitin – Every Sunday following 9am Shacharis

Gemora Baba Basra with Rabbi Levitin after 9 am Shacharis

Men’s Mikvah annual Dues are Due Annually on Elul 1^st
$440/daily, $220/weekly, $100/holiday only. Paying for one visit is not an option if you live in this community. Visitors pay $2.50 for single use. You can go to http://www.CSTLSeattle.org to make your payment online with your credit card.

Weekly Women’s Class on Jewish History with Chani Levitin Tue 7:30 pm
At the home of Rabbi & Chanie Levitin, 6519 49th Ave NE, info: [email protected]

KIDDUSH SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE
If you would like to sponsor Kiddush at CSTL, please contact Ivan Rothman, Gabbai Kiddush,[email protected] . Please inform Ivan by the preceding Sunday evening so that we have time to prepare properly. Prices: Sponsor $300, co-Sponsor $150, Contributor: $50-$149.

THANK YOU TO JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER SEATTLE
Funding for CSTL Outreach Program was made possible, in part, by a grant from the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle. Please donate to JFGS at https://www.jewishinseattle.org/donate

COMMUNITY NEWS

Mercaz Shabbat Afternoon Park Gathering and Third Meal Sat Aug 20^th 4:30-7:00
View Ridge Park; NE 70th St. at 44th Ave. NE. Bring games, dinner for your group or family, fruit and desserts to share. Learning and Singing, Playing and Talking

BCMH Annual Hakadosh BBQ Mon, Sep. 5^th
Featuring "Willie's Taste of Soul". Full BBQ, Beer Garden, Community Cookoff, Bounce House, Video Game Truck, entertainment and more. Register by August 28 and get the Earlybird Discount on admission for the whole family. Register & pre-order at: www.bcmhseattle.org or https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hakadosh-bbq-tickets-26810210060

Mishmar Chavura with Rabbi Avi Rosenfeld Thu 9pm - 11pm
Parsha Learning and Discussion. Everyone welcome to join the conversation. 5240 38th Ave. NE. Snacks served

Rabbi Hanoch Teller at Ashreichem Yisrael. Sun Aug 21^st 9:45 am
Topic: "The Adversity Buster: The Life and Times of Rav Nosson Zvi Finkel zt"l of Mir". 5134 S Holly Street, Seattle. www.seattlekehilla.com

NEED A DRIVER – CALL GERSHON!
For all your transportation needs, call Gershon Grashin (206) 856-2754

SICHO FOR THE SHABBOS NACHAMU
http://www.sie.org/templates/sie/article_cdo/aid/2507728/jewish/Tzivos-Hashem-13th-Day-of-Menachem-Av-5751-1991.htm © Chabad.org

Children who have been raised and educated in a Jewish manner should serve as an example for those children who, for reasons not at all dependent on them, have not received a proper Jewish education. This includes children who are living in far removed corners of the world. Surely, they are not responsible for their not having received a Jewish education. It is very important to do what is necessary to show these children a living example of what Jewish education can produce. Ultimately, this message will spread among all children, even those living in far removed places.

Since this rally is being held on a weekday, pictures can be taken and thus other children can actually see the vitality and energy with which these childrenrecited the pesukim, how they put their entire body and soul into this experience. This indicates how their connection to the Torah is complete and vibrant.

And this hastens the potential that, in the very near future, the children will merit the redemption; that Mashiach will come and bring all of us, both children and adults, together with all the Jews throughout the entire world to Eretz Yisrael, toJerusalem, and to the Beis HaMikdash.

This event will thus serve as an eternal remembrance for each one of us, allowing us to recall that there was once a Beis HaMikdash and that it served as a preparation for the ultimate Beis HaMikdash, “the Sanctuary of G‑destablished by Your hands.”

Together with this, each one of us will also ascend, being lifted up on the clouds of heavens and will meet together with all the Jewish children and all their parents in the one land, Eretz Yisrael, and in Jerusalem, the one and only capital of that land, and in the one Beis HaMikdash,¹ wherein the tablets of the Ten Commandments are kept.

And we will celebrate together with these tablets, as we celebrate with Torah scrolls on Simchas Torah at present. And we will dance, adults and children together, in a great and all-encompassing celebration. This shares a connection to the present day, the fourth day of the week of Parshas Vaeschanan, for the Torah reading associated with the present day describes the giving of the Ten Commandments.

2. In this context, there is a unique connection to Jewish children, for it is in their merit that G‑d gave the Torah to the entire Jewish people. Our Sages relate that before G‑d gave the Torah, He sought guarantors and rejected several guarantors who were offered. It was not until the Jews promised that, “Our children will be our guarantors,” that He agreed to give the Torah to the entire Jewish people. Thus the fact that the Jewish people — adults and children — have the Torah today, is because of the guarantorship of the Jewish children. From the children of that generation, this guarantorship has passed from generation to generation to the children of the present day, including each one of you.

Thus each one of you should appreciate the great merit and the great responsibility of each of the Jewish children of our generation. Each of you stand in the place of the children who were present at the giving of the Torah. This connection is reinforced by mentioning this concept again and allows us to receive the Torah again from G‑d. And similarly, it hastens the coming of the Redemption, when we will again hear “the new [dimensions of the] Torah which will emerge from Me.”

When Jewish children gather together in a place where Jews pray, study Torah, and accept resolutions to give tzedakah, this strengthens the recollection of the above concept. Furthermore, this recollection does not remain only on the intellectual plane, but rather effects one’s body and soul, causing one to study Torah and fulfill mitzvos. In particular, this applies in regard to the mitzvah oftzedakah, that each of you should add from your own funds to the money you are given to distribute to tzedakah, because tzedakah brings the Redemption close.

And then we will merit the fulfillment of the prayers of Moshe who prayed 515 times that he and the entire Jewish people would be allowed to enter Eretz Yisrael. And there, we will proceed to Jerusalem, and to the Beis HaMikdash.

3. The Ten Commandments contain 620 letters. These relate to the 613mitzvos of the Torah and the seven mitzvos of the Rabbis. Thus there is a uniqueness to the last seven letters of the commandments אשר לרעך which mean “that is possessed by your colleague.”

This represents a clear directive for every Jew. Not only must one heed G‑d’s command, “I am G‑d, your L‑rd” and all the other “spiritual” commandments, one must also show concern for other Jews, and even for their property. Furthermore, the phrase reads “everything that is possessed by your colleague;” i.e., not only silver and gold and objects of value, but even objects of minimal worth which another Jew owns, must be cared for. Since such an object belongs to another Jew, one should guard it in a way which befits the fulfillment of one of G‑d’s mitzvos.²

And fulfilling the commandments in this manner will hasten the time when Moshe’s prayers will be fulfilled. And together with him and with the entire Jewish people, we will proceed to Eretz Yisrael, to Jerusalem, and to the Beis HaMikdash.

Dvarim – Chazon | Tisha b’Av 8-15 Menachem Av 5776

Friday, August 12, 2016 - 12:57 PM

Fri Aug 12^th – Erev Shabbos
Shacharis: 7 am
Mincha/Candles/Maariv 8:07 pm

Sat Aug 13^th  - Shabbos Chazon
Shacharis: 9:30 am (Latest Shema 9:37 am)
Mincha 6:00 pm /NO PIRKEI AVOT / NO Seuda Slishit in Shul. Finish Seuda Slishit at home by about 8:10 p.m
Fast Begins before 8:23 pm (sunset).   Once the fast starts at sunset on Saturday evening Aug 13th one should not eat, drink, wash, anoint oneself, wear leather shoes, or have marital relations.
Shabbos Ends. 9:09 pm:  Say “ha Mavdil ben Kodesh L’Chol” We then light the Havdala candle and recite that beracha only. The formal Havdala service is done only upon the completion of the fast, on Sunday night
Maariv 9:45 pm  with Eicha/WEAR NON-LEATHER SHOES/

Sun Aug 14^th  - Fast of Tisha b’Av
Shacharis 9 am.  with Kinos / NO TALLIS, NO TEFILLIN/
1:13 pm: Chatzos.  Sit on chairs
7:30 pm: Mincha with Torah Reading /Put on Tallis and Tefilin, say pesukim 7:15 pm/
8:58 pm Maariv/ End of Fast & Kiddush Levana. Beracha of Havdala is said Sunday night using wine. We do not recite theberacha of besamim after Shabbos or Sunday night. This year on Sunday night after the fast is over, we may do laundry and take haircuts immediately but not eat meat, drink wine (except for Havdala) and listen to music until Monday morning.

Weekdays
Sunday Shacharis 9 am
Mon- Fri Shacharis 7 am
Mon-Thu Mincha/Maariv 8:00 pm /Repeat Shema after 8:54 pm/

SHABBAT CHAZON
The Shabbat before the Ninth of Av is called Shabbat Chazon ("Shabbat of Vision") after the opening words of the day's reading from the prophets ("haftara"), which is the third of the series of readings known as "The Three of Rebuke." On this Shabbat, say the Chassidic masters, we are granted a vision of the Third Temple; we may not see it with our physical eyes, but our souls see it, and are empowered to break free of our present state of galut (exile and spiritual displacement) and bring about the Redemption and the rebuilding of the Temple. www.chabad.org

KIDDUSH SHABBOS
No Sponsor – Kiddush Lite. Seuda Slishit at home following mincha

LADIES TEHILIM – SUN 10 am
Tisha b’Av schedule unknown.

THE NORTH SEATTLE ERUV STATUS: -PENDING
For current status of the North Seattle Eruv, please check the flag on the NE 65^th Street side of CSTL, (green flag means the Eruv is up, red flag the Eruv is down), CSTL eNews, or the Vaad eNews. Visit our web site www.twitter.com/cstleruv for current status.

Estrin Family Seudas Hoda'ah Tuesday, August 23^rd 7:00-9:00PM
You are cordially invited to a Seudas Hoda'ah at CSTL in thanks for all Hashem's miracles and prayers for the future for our son Nissi (Nesanel Ben Chaya Rochel) . Dinner and special guest speaker, RabbiBenyomin Walters (of Chicago) followed by a farbrengen. We look forward to celebrating with you! Rabbi Elie and Chaya Estrin and family. Please RSVP: [email protected]

WEEKLY CLASS ON PRAYER WITH RABBI EMLEN – TUE EVE
Prayer is very important! Please join Rabbi Emlen for a practical and inspiring class focusing each week on a single prayer. At the Green’s [email protected]

Shabbat Nachamu - Friday night Fundraiser BBQ at Shul August 19^th 6:30 pm
We are really excited about the BBQ on August 19th! We will be serving Jeff's Gourmet sausages, burgers, and a special brisket from Shuky Meyer with his amazing homemade spice rub. Services begin at 6:30 followed immediately by dinner in the downstairs social hall. Payment is required in advance. If you are unable to attend, please consider making a donation! Please take a minute to click on this link:https://cstlbbq.eventbrite.com/ and sign up. It's important that we have an accurate headcount as well! If you are able to volunteer to help with this event or interested in sponsoring, please reach out directly to me or Mike. Thank you! Chani Meyer

Weekly Talmud Class with Rabbi Levitin – Every Sunday following 9am Shacharis
Gemora Baba Basra with Rabbi Levitin after 9 am Shacharis

SPECIAL FUNDRAISING FOR SHUL SECURITY
I have heard from many of you that the security at our Shul has been well received and appreciated. We are looking to raise $1,800 which would cover the extra cost during Yom Tov. Please click the here or mail in a check for this worthy cause. -Mike Weichbrodt

Men’s Mikvah annual Dues are Due Annually on Elul 1^st

$440/daily, $220/weekly, $100/holiday only. Paying for one visit is not an option if you live in this community. Visitors pay $2.50 for single use. You can go to http://www.CSTLSeattle.org to make your payment online with your credit card.

Weekly Women’s Class on Jewish History with Chani Levitin Tue 7:30 pm
At the home of Rabbi & Chanie Levitin, 6519 49th Ave NE, info: [email protected]

KIDDUSH SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE
If you would like to sponsor Kiddush at CSTL, please contact Ivan Rothman, Gabbai Kiddush,[email protected] . Please inform Ivan by the preceding Sunday evening so that we have time to prepare properly. Prices: Sponsor $300, co-Sponsor $150, Contributor: $50-$149.

THANK YOU TO JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER SEATTLE
Funding for CSTL Outreach Program was made possible, in part, by a grant from the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle. Please donate to JFGS at https://www.jewishinseattle.org/donate

COMMUNITY NEWS

Tisha b’Av Worldwide – Aug 14^th – 2:30 pm at BCMH and 6:30 pm at SBH
The power of Ahavas Yisroel to Unlock the Geula – Video with Rabbis Kamentsky, Grossman, Frand, Krohn, Goldstein, and Jacobson.

BCMH Annual Hakadosh BBQ Mon, Sep. 5^th
Featuring "Willie's Taste of Soul". Full BBQ, Beer Garden, Community Cookoff, Bounce House, Video Game Truck, entertainment and more. Register by August 28 and get the Earlybird Discount on admission for the whole family. Register & pre-order at: www.bcmhseattle.org or https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hakadosh-bbq-tickets-26810210060

“The Blog: Live", Karen Treiger shares her trip to Poland. Sun Aug 14^th 5:00 pm at Minyan Ohr Chadash More info here

Seattle Kollel SEED Learning Day Camps

Boys: June 27-August 25. More info: www.seattlekollel.org
Girls: June 27-August 25. More info: www.seattlekollel.org

36^th International Conference on Jewish Genealogy, Aug. 7-12
Sheraton Hotel, downtown Seattle. More info: www.iajgs2016.org

NEED A DRIVER – CALL GERSHON!
For all your transportation needs, call Gershon Grashin (206) 856-2754

SICHO FOR THE SHABBOS CHAZON
http://www.sie.org/templates/sie/article_cdo/aid/2507724/jewish/Shabbos-Parshas-Devarim-9th-Day-of-Menachem-Av-5751-1991.htm © Chabad.org

1. ¹ One of the fundamental aspects of our faith is the belief in the immanency of Mashiach’s coming. We must “await his coming every day,” which means not only that every day we should wait for his ultimate coming, but that every day, we should expect him to come on that very day itself.

This is all the more relevant in the present era when all the signs that our Sages mentioned in connection with the coming of the Redemption are manifest. In particular, the present days are uniquely appropriate for the comingofMashiach. For our Sages declared that:

A lion (Nebuchadneztar) came in the month whose sign is a lion (Av) to destroyAriel (“the lion of G‑d,” the Beis HaMikdash), so that² a lion (G‑d) will come in the month whose sign is a lion and build Ariel.

Furthermore, the name of the month Menachem Av stresses that there will beMenachem, an act of comfort, for all the negative factors associated with the present day. More precisely, this applies on the present Shabbos which falls on the date of Tishah BeAv itself.

Our sages explain that on Tishah BeAv, Mashiach is born. This cannot refer to his actual birth, because Mashiach will not be an infant when he redeems our people, but rather to a strengthening of his influence. For our Sages refer to a birthday as a day when mazalo govair, “the spiritual source of one’s soul shines powerfully.” On the day when Mashiach’s spiritual source is powerfully revealed, there is a unique potential for the redemption to come.

The AriZal explains that it is on the afternoon of Tishah BeAv, that Mashiach is “born,” and for this reason we recite the prayer Nachaim, at that time. Although this year Nachaim is not recited on the date of Tishah BeAv itself, since that date is Shabbos, this surely does not detract from the positive influences of that date.³ On the contrary, the Shabbos postpones only the negative factors associated with Tishah BeAv and enhances and amplifies the power of the date’s positive influences.

This is reflected in the name given the Shabbos, Shabbos Chazon, “the Shabbos of Vision.” TheBerditchever Rebbe explains that on this Shabbos, every Jew is granted a vision of the Third Beis HaMikdash. And similarly, theHaftorah recited on this Shabbos concludes with a verse that points toward the redemption, “Zion will be redeemed through judgment, and her captives, through tzedakah.”

Similarly, the very fact that Tishah BeAv falls on Shabbos and thus instead of fasting, we are obligated to take pleasure in the foods and beverages served alludes to the redemption. For every Shabbos is a microcosm of “the era that is all Shabbos and rest for eternity” and the Shabbos meals a reflection of the feast to be served on that day.

For that reason, when a fast day falls on the Shabbos, there must be an additional stress on happiness. This is reflected in the third Shabbos meal. Although it is the seudah hamafsekes, the meal directly before the Tishah BeAvfast which is usually associated with certain mourning rites, this year, one may serve “a meal comparable to the feasts of King Shlomo.”

Indeed, in regard to a Tishah BeAv which falls on Shabbos, our Sages use the expression, “Since it was postponed, let it be nullified.” On a simple level, it means that since the fast was not observed on its appropriate date, there is reason to suppose that in that year, one need not fast at all. On a deeper level, however, it reflects the potential for the fast to be nullified completely and totally with the coming of the redemption.

2. Among the unique aspects of the observance of Tishah BeAv this year is a resemblance to Yom Kippur. In regard to Yom Kippur, it is said, “whoever eats and drinks on the ninth is considered⁴ as if he fasted on the ninth and tenth.” Eating “succulent meat and aged wine” on the ninth of the month, causes G‑d to have this considered as a special merit. This concept can also be borrowed in regard to the Ninth and Tenth of Av this year for we eat on the ninth of the month in preparation for the fast on the tenth.

There is an intrinsic bond between the two. The mitzvos which the Rabbis ordained, including the communal fasts, are not totally new conceptions, but rather extensions of the mitzvos of the Torah. Thus the mitzvah of fasting is associated with the only fast ordained by the Torah, Yom Kippur. In particular, the connection shared between that day and Tishah BeAv is unique, for the prohibitions of Tishah BeAv parallel those of Yom Kippur.⁵

There is another connection between the two dates. The positive dimensions of Tishah BeAv are revealed on the Fifteenth of Av, the day when “the moon shines fully,” i.e., all the influences associated with that month are revealed in a complete manner. Thus, it is on the Fifteenth of Av that “the revelation of the Era of the Redemption shines incessantly.” And for that reason, our Sages taught, “The Jewish people never enjoyed holidays equivalent to the Fifteenth of Av and Yom Kippur.”

The imminence of the Redemption mentioned previously allows for the possibility for a further connection to be drawn between Tishah BeAv and Yom Kippur. At the dedication of the First Beis HaMikdash, on the tenth of Tishrei, Yom Kippur, the Jews ate and drank in celebration. And this was considered a unique merit for them. Since we are awaiting Mashiach’s coming today, it is possible that tomorrow, the tenth of Av, will be the dedication of the Third Beis HaMikdash. For the Beis HaMikdash is already completely built in the spiritual realms and must only descend to the earth. Were this to happen, the parallel between Tishah BeAv and Yom Kippur would be revealed in the most complete and positive sense.

3. The conclusion of the calendar dates of the Three Weeks on Shabbos heightens the possibility of a positive conception of this period of time. InKabbalah, it is explained that these Three Weeks parallel the three mochin,intellectual faculties. Herein we see a connection to the Era of the Redemption, for in that era, EretzYisrael will expand and include the lands of three more nations, the Keni, the Knizi, and the Kadmoni. Thus it will include the lands of ten nations, reflecting all the qualities of the spiritual realms, the three mochinand the seven middos, emotional attributes.

An allusion to this dimension is found in the Torah portions read in theShabbasos connected with these Three Weeks, Pinchas, Mattos-Maasei, andDevarim, for all three mention the Jews’ entry into Eretz Yisrael and its division among the tribes. (Herein, we also see a connection to Parshas Vaeschananwhich is read in the afternoon service today. That parshah begins with a description of Moshe Rabbeinu’s fervent prayers to enter Eretz Yisrael.⁶ )

Moreover, these parshiyos mention in detail how the tribes of Reuven and Gadand half the tribe of Menasheh took possession of Transjordan. This is significant, because included in these lands was territory that had originally belonged to the Keni, the Knizi, and the Kadmoni. Thus the conquest of these lands represented a foretaste of the conquest of Eretz Yisrael in the Era of the Redemption.

The above must be internalized and applied by each individual in his own lifework which involves, to quote the Tzemach Tzedek, “Making this place Eretz Yisrael.”⁷ This entails drawing G‑dliness into our material environment, transforming our world into a dwelling for Him. Through this service in the present era, we hasten the coming of the time when Eretz Yisrael will spread out throughout the entire world in the Era of the Redemption.

4. The imminence of Mashiach’s coming should not cause us to slacken any of our efforts to spread positive activities at present. Indeed, even afterMashiach’s coming, the positive effects of one’s activities and resolutions will continue. In regard to the revelations of Gan Eden, our Sages declared, “Happy is he who comes here having acquired.” Similarly, in regard to the Era of the Redemption, our efforts in Torah and mitzvos at present will expand our capacity to appreciate the revelations which will become manifest in that era.

The concluding verse of the Haftorah, “Zion will be redeemed by judgment and its captives, by charity,” should serve as a cue for our conduct. “Judgment” refers to Torah study. Through increasing our study of the Torah and our gifts to charity, we can hasten the coming of the redemption.

In particular, there must be an increase in the effort to make siyumim,gatherings marking the conclusion of the study of a Talmudic tractate. Suchsiyumim should be made this afternoon,⁸ this evening and tomorrow (in a permitted manner), and tomorrow night. When possible, these siyumim should also be associated with gifts to charity. Furthermore, if, heaven forbid, Mashiachdoes not come before the fifteenth of Av, siyumim — connected with gifts to charity and celebratory feasts — should be continued to be made until that day.

Similarly, the Fifteenth of Av should be set aside as a day of celebration, a day when men, women, and children, gather together in a Chassidic farbrengen.And this should be connected with a siyum, donations to charity, and making resolutions to continue further positive activities. Since the Fifteenth of Av falls on Friday,⁹ and thus questions might arise if the farbrengen would be held during the day, this farbrengen should be held on Thursday night.

This farbrengen should be held with great celebration and joy as befits the Fifteenth of Av, of which it was said, “The Jewish people never enjoyed holidays equivalent to the Fifteenth of Av,” a celebration which parallels the celebration of a marriage. And indeed, there is a connection between the two. For it was on the Fifteenth of Av that “the daughters of Jerusalem would go out and dance in the vineyards,” and shidduchin would be made. Similarly, at present, this is a time — particularly, after the interruption in the Three Weeks — when it is customary to make many weddings and engagements. May these celebrations hasten the coming of the consummation of the ultimate wedding bond, the union between G‑d and the Jewish people. And then we will rejoice with unbounded celebration and join in many wedding celebrations as reflected in the promise, “Speedily, G‑d our L‑rd, let there be heard in the cities of Judahand the outskirts of Jerusalem, the voice of rejoicing and the voice of happiness, the voice of a groom, and the voice of a bride.” And may this take place in the immediate future.

Parasha Matos-Masei - Hazaq 1 -8 Menachem Av 5776

Friday, August 5, 2016 - 12:02 PM

Fri Aug 5^th – Erev Shabbos – Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av
Shacharis: 6:50 am
Mincha/Candles/Maariv 8:18 pm

Sat Aug 6^th - Shabbos
Shacharis: 9:30 am (Latest Shema 9:34 am)
Mincha 8:00 pm /PIRKEI AVOT CHAPTER 2/ Seuda Slishit
Maariv/Havdala 9:20 pm

Weekdays
Sunday Shacharis 9 am
Mon- Fri Shacharis 7 am
Sun-Thu Mincha/Maariv 8:10 pm /Repeat Shema after 9:09 pm/

KIDDUSH SHABBOS
No Sponsor – Kiddush Lite.
Seuda Slishit is sponsored by TBD.

LADIES TEHILIM – SUN 10 am
From 10 AM at the Shaarei Tefillah Library.

BARUCH DAYAN EMETH
The community is saddened to learn of the passing of Boris Solomyak’s father ZT”L. May the Solomyakfamily be comforted with all the mourners of Tzion and Yerushalayim. Shiva will be in Israel.

BARUCH DAYAN EMETH
The community is saddened to learn of the passing of Berel Pedowitz's mother, Esther Bracha bat BerelReuvane Z"TL, Friday evening in Boca Raton, Florida. Shiva info to follow. May the Pedowitz family be comforted with all the mourners of Tzion and Yerushalayim

THE NORTH SEATTLE ERUV STATUS: -PENDING
For current status of the North Seattle Eruv, please check the flag on the NE 65^th Street side of CSTL, (green flag means the Eruv is up, red flag the Eruv is down), CSTL eNews, or the Vaad eNews. Visit our web site www.twitter.com/cstleruv for current status.

INTERGENERATIONAL WOMENS’ MIKVAH COMMITTEE WED AUG 10^th 7:30 pm
An inter-generational group of women are forming a ladies mikvah committee to plan and organize some events and classes including a *FUN*draiser for the mikvah. There will be a meeting at Chani Levitin's home at 6519 49th Ave, NE, on Wednesday, August 10th at 7:30pm. Anyone who wishes to participate in the planning is invited to attend.

THE NINE DAYS BEGAN THU EVENING AUG 4^th
"When Av begins, we diminish [our] rejoicing" (Talmud, Taanit 26b). On the 1st of Av, "The Three Weeks" mourning period over the destruction of the Holy Temple--which began 13 days ealier on Tammuz 17--enters an intensified stage. During "The Nine Days" from Av 1st to the Ninth of Av, a heightened degree of mourning is observed, including abstention from meat and wine, music, bathing for pleasure, and other joyous and enjoyable activities. (The particular mourning customs vary from community to community, so consult a competent Halachic authority for details). Consumption of meat and wine is permitted on Shabbat, or at a Seudat Mitzvah (obligatory festive meal celebrating the fulfillment of a mitzvah) such as a Bris (circumcision), or a "Siyum" celebrating the completion of a course of Torah study (i.e., a complete Talmudic tractate). The Lubavitcher Rebbe initiated the custom of conducting or participating in a Siyum on each of the Nine Days (even if one does not avail oneself of the dispensation to eat meat). Citing the verse (Isaiah 1:27) "Zion shall be redeemed with mishpat [Torah] and its returnees with Tzedakah," the Rebbe urged that we increase in Torah study (particularly the study of the laws of the Holy Temple) and charity during this period (www.chabad.org) Contact Rabbi Levitin with specific questions.

Estrin Family Seudas Hoda'ah Tuesday, August 23^rd 7:00-9:00PM
You are cordially invited to a Seudas Hoda'ah at CSTL in thanks for all Hashem's miracles and prayers for the future for our son Nissi (Nesanel Ben Chaya Rochel) . Dinner and special guest speaker, RabbiBenyomin Walters (of Chicago) followed by a farbrengen. We look forward to celebrating with you! Rabbi Elie and Chaya Estrin and family. Please RSVP: [email protected]

WEEKLY CLASS ON PRAYER WITH RABBI EMLEN – TUE EVE
Prayer is very important! Please join Rabbi Emlen for a practical and inspiring class focusing each week on a single prayer. At the Green’s [email protected]

Shabbat Friday night Fundraiser BBQ at Shul August 19^th 6:30 pm
We are really excited about the BBQ on August 19th! We will be serving Jeff's Gourmet sausages, burgers, and a special brisket from Shuky Meyer with his amazing homemade spice rub. Services begin at 6:30 followed immediately by dinner in the downstairs social hall. Payment is required in advance. If you are unable to attend, please consider making a donation! Please take a minute to click on this link:https://cstlbbq.eventbrite.com/ and sign up. It's important that we have an accurate headcount as well! If you are able to volunteer to help with this event or interested in sponsoring, please reach out directly to me or Mike. Thank you! Chani Meyer

Weekly Talmud Class with Rabbi Levitin – Every Sunday following 9am Shacharis
Gemora Baba Basra with Rabbi Levitin after 9 am Shacharis

SPECIAL FUNDRAISING FOR SHUL SECURITY
I have heard from many of you that the security at our Shul has been well received and appreciated. We are looking to raise $1,800 which would cover the extra cost during Yom Tov. Please click the link below or mail in a check for this worthy cause. -Mike Weichbrodt
https://m-cstlseattleorg.clhosting.org/templates/articlecco_cdo/aid/3182565/jewish/Donate/lang/en

Men’s Mikvah annual Dues are Due Annually on Elul 1^st
$440/daily, $220/weekly, $100/holiday only. Paying for one visit is not an option if you live in this community. Visitors pay $2.50 for single use. You can go to http://www.CSTLSeattle.org to make your payment online with your credit card.

Weekly Women’s Class on Jewish History with Chani Levitin Tue 7:30 pm
At the home of Rabbi & Chanie Levitin, 6519 49th Ave NE, info: [email protected]

KIDDUSH SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE
If you would like to sponsor Kiddush at CSTL, please contact Ivan Rothman, Gabbai Kiddush,[email protected] . Please inform Ivan by the preceding Sunday evening so that we have time to prepare properly. Prices: Sponsor $300, co-Sponsor $150, Contributor: $50-$149.

THANK YOU TO JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER SEATTLE
Funding for CSTL Outreach Program was made possible, in part, by a grant from the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle. Please donate to JFGS at https://www.jewishinseattle.org/donate

COMMUNITY NEWS

BCMH Annual Hakadosh BBQ Mon, Sep. 5^th
Featuring "Willie's Taste of Soul". Full BBQ, Beer Garden, Community Cookoff, Bounce House, Video Game Truck, entertainment and more. Register by August 28 and get the Earlybird Discount on admission for the whole family. Register & pre-order at: www.bcmhseattle.org or https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hakadosh-bbq-tickets-26810210060

The Blog: Live", Karen Treiger, author, shares her trip to Poland. Sun Aug 14, 5:00 - 6:15 pm, " Minyan Ohr ChadashMore info: https://wordpress.com/post/soyouwanttowriteaholocaustbook.wordpress.com/1008

Pre-Tisha B'Av Leil Iyum Tuesday, August 9^th 7:30 pm
At the Seattle Kollel with featured speakers Rabbi Yechezkel Kornfeld and Rabbi Yehuda Bresler

Seattle Kollel SEED Learning Day Camps
Boys: June 27-August 25. More info: www.seattlekollel.org
Girls: June 27-August 25. More info: www.seattlekollel.org

36^th International Conference on Jewish Genealogy, Aug. 7-12
Sheraton Hotel, downtown Seattle. More info: www.iajgs2016.org

NEED A DRIVER – CALL GERSHON!
For all your transportation needs, call Gershon Grashin (206) 856-2754

SICHO FOR THE NINE DAYS
http://www.sie.org/templates/sie/article_cdo/aid/2605088/jewish/Eve-of-Rosh-Chodesh-Menachem-Av-5740-1980.htm © Chabad.org

With the arrival of Av we diminish [joy]” — the opposite of regular behavior. Ordinary behavior for Jews is, “Serve the L‑rd with joy,” and since His service must be with perfection, thus the joy must also be full and perfect. When we are to “diminish joy,” that is the opposite of ordinary behavior.

There is a familiar statement, “Descent is for the purpose of ascent.” It is obvious then that “diminishing joy” — which is a radical descent (since it is the opposite of regular conduct) is for the purpose of leading to a radical ascent.

II

Exile in general is descent, and in the first instance of exile we find that “we have descended and descended” was for the end that, “I shall take you up and up.” The fulfillment of “I shall take you up” happened at the Exodus and the promise “and (go) up” will be at the impending redemption.

Even if we are, G‑d forbid, in a state of “not meriting” and can only await “in its time,” the Talmud assures us that “all the predestined dates [for redemption] have ended.” It follows that it is certainly past “its time.”

Beyond every doubt the time of “the end has come” has already passed, and G‑d will not detain us for the blink of an eye. This has been said about the Exodus from Egypt and applies as well to the coming redemption, for it shall be “like the days when I took you from Egypt.”

Similarly, the descent of diminishing joy with the coming of Av, which is a consequence of the descent of exile, is for the ascent that the month will be transformed into joy.

III

This concept is emphasized more clearly and in salient words in Yalkut Shimonion Yirmiya, (a book that “discusses the Destruction”) and in Yirmiya proper at the very beginning. The words at the start, “in the fifth month” (the month we “diminish joy”) —

— “the Lion (Ari) rose [meaning Nevuchadnezar]

— in the mazal of the Lion (Ari) [the fifth month]

— and destroyed Ariel [referring to Jerusalem, and/or the Sanctuary in general, or to the altar in the Sanctuary]

— and this was “so that the Lion [the Holy One of Whom it is said, “The Lion roars, Who is not frightened?”] should come

— during the mazal of Ari and

— reconstruct Ariel.”

Yalkut Shimoni goes on to explain that “the Lion will come during the mazal of Ari” and bring about that “I will transform their grief to happiness.” The fact that “the Lion rose during the mazal of Ari, and destroyed Ariel” is for a specified purpose, the reconstruction. We learn from this that the process of “diminishing joy with the coming of Av” was originally intended with a purpose, that there may be the “transformation of grief to happiness.”

IV

For whatever Heaven endows us, we are to make appropriate vessels. These “vessels” are Torah and Mitzvos, so they are not only vessels to receive what He endows, but they also elicit the endowment and bring the endowment sooner.

In this context: we are to create vessels to call forth and bring forth more swiftly the fulfillment of “Ari will come in the mazal of Ari and construct Ariel.”

V

The definition of the “appropriate vessels” in this case is found at the close of the Haftorah of Shabbos Chazon, [the beginning of this Shabbos, like the beginning of any Shabbos, is the “first day of the Shabbos (week).” At this moment, the eve of the second day is the close and end of the first day.]

“Zion will be redeemed with Mishpot, and those who return to her — withTzedakah.” The AlterRebbe explains: Mishpot means Halachos; Tzedakah means simply Tzedakah [charity].

[Though Tzedakah also means “Mitzvos in general that are called Tzedakah ,” still the simple meaning is retained — literal Tzedakah (charity). In a parallel manner, though “Mishpot” means Torah in general, still here the Halachaelement is primary in importance.

So that Mishpot and Tzedakah be properly performed and ascend properly, they must be joined to the third “line,” worship or Tefilla. Tefillah is the “ladder standing on earth and its top reaching to the Heavens.” Through Tefillahall of man’s service, his Torah and charity, ascend to Heaven. There is another quality inherent in Tefillah. InTefillah we pray — and effectively — that we be granted G‑d’s help and blessing that the “Mishpot” and “Tzedakah” be effective in all their details, in regard to the two proper, in regard to their ascent, and also in regard to their later elicitation and effectiveness here below.

VI

In practical terms: during each of the Nine Days every one is to make additions in each of the three lines of Torah, Avoda (Tefillah) and Gemilus Chassodim.

In Torah: in each of the Nine Days add to your regular studies, particularly in Halacha, and also in the study of the Book of Zohar. In reference to Zohar,Moshe (called Raya Mehemna, the faithful Shepherd) declared, “with this volume of yours, which is the Zohar... [Jews] will go forth from their exile with mercies.” Ideally, so that the study “give sustenance,” also study an interpretation of the Zohar (or some independent subject) in ChassidusChabad. Chabad brings the “Secrets of Torah” and of Zohar into reason and comprehension. It need not be added that on Tisha B’Av the additional Torah study be in subjects that may be studied that day. These also include Halachos(Mishpot) like the laws of Tisha B’Av etc.

In Tefillah: In each of these days make some addition in Tefillah, in quality. This addition in quality can be on the day of Tisha B’Av itself as well. And an addition in quantity — in Tehillim, at least one added Psalm.

This has a particular relevance to our subject, for “Dovid King of Israel,” the Sweet Singer of Israel, continues to “live and exist” and also as “King of Israel.”Rambam states that “A King will arise from the House of Dovid, conversant in Torah and occupied with Mitzvos like Dovid his father,” and will fight the wars of G‑d victoriously, and will build the Sanctuary in its place and will gather in the dispersed of Israel.

In Tzedakah: Besides the daily Tzedakah before the davening, a practice standard for all the weekdays of the year, noted in Talmud and quoted inShulchan Aruch as a law, during every one of these days there should be an addition. Preferably, the addition should be twice a day — before Shacharis and before Mincha.

This is especially relevant to our subject. “Eliyahu was answered only at the Mincha Tefilla.” Eliyahu is he one designated to proclaim in the immediate future the tidings of the redemption. In regard to Shabbos: Since on Shabbos Tzedakah must be in a manner different from the daily (by giving the poor some food and the like), and this is not always easy to fulfill, therefore, give “double” on Friday, for Friday and Shabbos.

VII

It is of course obvious that all this applies to the women and daughters of Israel as well.

In regard to Torah: there is a clear ruling in Hilchos Talmud Torah, and at length in the Alter Rebbe’s HilchosTalmud Torah at the end of the first Chapter, that women are required to study “the laws pertaining to them.”

In regard to Tefillah: The Talmud notes that “women certainly also need life” and need “mercies, (attained by) prayer.

And in regard to Tzedakah: The effects of charity performed by women are even greater that those of men’s charity, for theirs can be enjoyed at once. Since it is effective quicker than men’s, it is more quickly effective Above as well, for “By the measure man uses he is measured.”

VIII

Ahavas Yisroel, love of a fellow-Jew, is operative here. Ahavas Yisroel binds all Israel together and therefore also strengthens the bond between Israel and G‑d. The Alter Rebbe’s formulation is familiar: “Love your fellow like yourself” and “Love Hashem your G‑d” are “identical.” Hence, every Jewish man and woman should make every possible effort to make these observances accessible to all his (her) friends, wherever he (she) possibly can.

Ahavas Yisroel is directly associated with the abovementioned “transforming grief into joy,” for when “we are all as one” is strengthened then “Bless us, our Father” is strengthened. This is particularly true for the blessing “May our eyes behold Your return to Zion in mercy” that each Jew and all Jews pray everyday, and for the blessing “who builds Jerusalem” that we pray every weekday.

* * *

IX

Another basic element in all this:

The Medrash states that Jerusalem had 480 shuls and every shul had a school and House of Talmud where children were instructed. The Rebbe Tzemach Tzedek discusses the figure 480:

The Name of G‑d of four letters, Havaye, can form twelve combinations (since one letter, Hay, appears twice in the Name). Every combination has four letters, a total of 48 letters. Since every “state” comprises ten, the total is 480.

In simple terms: Torah instruction of the children of Jerusalem was the sort that bound them to G‑d’s Name, Havaye, that is so far superior to the Name Elokim(numerically hateva, nature) that it (Havaye) is called the Ineffable Name, the specific Name, the Essence Name.

X

As noted earlier, with the coming of Av we are to call forth that “Ari come during the mazal of Ari and construct Ariel” including the construction of Jerusalem, as the Yalkut observes, “and will build Ariel — ‘G‑d builds Jerusalem’.” We must connect this to the 480 shuls of Jerusalem.

Our sages tell us that Jerusalem is destined to expand over all the Land of Israel and the Land is destined to expand over all lands. So wherever Jewish children may be learning Torah, it must be in the spirit of the 480 shuls of Jerusalem.

XI

It follows quite naturally then that in the additions during the Nine Days in the three lines of Torah, Tefillah andTzedakah, every effort must be exercised to involve every Jewish child younger than Bar or Bas Mitzvah.

Particularly, in those places that many youngsters assemble, for example overnight camps and day camps, another dimension of merit is added. The merit of community, numbers. By all means gather up all children together and perform the three Mitzvos. This will add to G‑d’s blessing in everything needed in the camps. This is in addition to the primary blessing — bringing the true and full redemption at once.

It is understood that these children are to influence other children who are in other places, boys influencing boys and girls influencing girls, to perform these three Mitzvos on each of the Nine Days.

XII

In addition to all this, in Eretz Israel, there are to be assemblies of children, of boys and girls separately, at the Kosel and at the Me’aras Hamachpeila whereAvraham, Yitzchok and Ya’akov, Sarah, Rivkah and Leah are buried, and also at Rochel’s tomb, the fourth of the mothers, the completion of the four “legs” of the Merkava.

It would be most proper that the assemblies in those places take place at least twice during the Nine Days, and three times would be excellent.

* * *

XIII

Everything said above, whether the individual’s personal addition in the three lines during these days, whether inducing others to do so, is important to every Jew and within every Jew’s capacities. This includes “your heads, your tribal chiefs” extending all the way to “your hewers of wood and those who draw water,” and those between, including “your children (boys and girls) and your women.”

May it be His will that the additions in the three lines that every man and women will offer be effective in bringing about a swift and full redemption, particularly since “all the predestined dates have come and everything depends solely on repentance.”

All three lines are associated with repentance:

Torah and Tefillah are associated with Teshuvah (repentance), particularly withTeshuvah Ila’a, the superiorTeshuvah. Charity is associated with Teshuvah (also meaning “return”) — “returning the sparks” to their source and root. Returning the sparks of his soul and “his portion of the world” is accomplished through charity.

Besides Tzedakah is associated with Teshuvah in the simple sense — “Redeem your sin with charity.” Though “your people are all righteous” and “all Israel are in the status of Kashrus,” there is also another meaning to the word chet — it means sin and also means lack, deficiency. The statement “Redeem your chetwith charity” refers to this sort of chet as well. Charity corrects the deficiency. Charity brings man to wholeness, to perfect wholeness.

We may be certain that additions in the three lines, all sharing the characteristic of Teshuvah, will bring the redemption all the more swiftly.

XIV

A prologue to all this is the close of the daily portion of Chumash of Rosh Chodesh Av this year — “See that G‑d has given you the land. Go up and inherit it... do not fear, do not be shaken.” Jews must be firmly determined that they must “go up and inherit.”

Since “G‑d has given you the land” and the sages note: it does not say “will give” for He has already given Jews the Land. Therefore “do not fear or be shaken.” There is nothing to fear; they will not be able to carry out their plots, G‑d forbid. All that is needed is “Go up and inherit,” and we may then be confident that those who wish to deter will become null — and all this by ways of pleasantness and peace.

This will be brought about by performing and adding in the three lines. We have the promise, “If you go by My statutes and keep My Mitzvos and perform them.” This refers to studying Torah and performing Mitzvos, andTzedakah is one of these. Tefillah is included, and through Tefillah the others — Torah, Mitzvos and Tzedakah — ascend.

Then the promise: “I will give your rains in their seasons ... I will give peace in the land. You will rest and none will frighten you,” and all the blessings listed there, culminating with — “I will lead you upright.” And all this while we are still in the (last moments of) exile.

This will bring about even more quickly that “I will transform your grief to joy” — a promise by G‑d, particularly when we will fulfill His will in the “three-fold cord” of Torah — Avoda — Gemilus Chassodim. And especially when we perform them with joy and happy hearts.

Then G‑d will fulfill His promise, “You will be gathered one by one.” G‑d Himself will take each Jew separately from the inward Golus and from literal exile.

And G‑d will go out of exile together with every individual Jew, for as long as Jews are in exile, He Himself is in exile too as it were.

In the immediate future G‑d will go with every single Jew to welcome theMoshiach, may he come and redeem us and lead us upright to our land, swiftly, in our days.