03 Dec MTC Highlights: Parshat Miketz
Dvar Torah by Raiya Rubin - Chessed Coordinator
Parshat Miketz
Why do we celebrate the miracle of the jug of oil on Hanukkah?
After all, there were many other great miracles מעטים מול רבים, גיבורים ביד חלשים, the miracle of the military victory. The Or Sameach explains that there are miracles above nature and miracles through nature. Thanks to the miracles above nature, we can see with certainty that all the other miracles that are in the natural way are also in the hand of Hashem.
The war against the Greeks was in the natural way but the miracle of the jug of oil that one day of oil lasted for eight days is a miracle that is definitely above nature. It is through this miracle that Hashem is revealed and for that we are thankful, that Hashem is really showing us that He is the true leader of the world.
The Midrash compares this to Yosef. When he returned to Israel to bury the bones of Yaakov, he stopped in the pit in Dotan to bless the miracle that occurred to him in this place. Even though he experienced so many miracles in Egypt with the prison and the dreams, it was in this place he stopped to recognise them. The miracle in the pit was different because it was above nature that Yosef stayed alive despite the snakes and scorpions found there.
We experience miracles within nature in our daily live – a flight that arrives safely, a car that brings us to our destination, upon waking in the morning, food to eat – the list is endless!
If we open our eyes to our natural existence, we can see Hashem has a hand in our true essence and surroundings.
May we live to thank Him for it every day! Happy Chanukah!
Student Reflection
Penina Goldberg - Ulpanat Ahavat Yisrael, IL - Ramat Bet Shemesh, IL
During my time at MTC, I’ve learned and gained so much. The classes, combined with the chessed have taught me to not only learn Torah, but to put what we learn into action.
Before this year, I never really connected to Judaic studies. Since I came to MTC, the classes with our incredible teachers have helped me gain a deeper understanding of Torah and Judaism, and with it, how to become the best version of myself. Having the opportunity to learn such a diverse variety of topics, from exploring current events through a Jewish lens, to debates in hashkafa class has helped me view and experience Judaism in a way I never did before.
I’m so lucky to get to volunteer with the oldest group, the Beit Bogrot. Spending time with them has taught me so much. Their constant positivity and friendliness inspires me on a daily basis. They’ve become my friends, and inspirations. From doing homework with them, to dance and karaoke parties in the kitchen and helping dye their hair there’s always something new and exciting going on!
The first night of Chanukah was especially exciting for the girls in my group. One of them was chosen to help light the menorah. Watching her light it and cheering her along with the rest of the pnimiya was an experience I’ll never forget. Standing with the girls from my group singing “Maoz Tzur”, I felt so connected to them. It made the start of Chanukah so meaningful for me.
I can’t wait to continue learning and growing, and creating deeper relationships throughout this year. I’m so thankful to be part of MTC and Bet Elazraki.
