Sunday, April 15, 2007

613 Mitzvot

Among the traditional counting of 613 Mitzvot, there is one that stands above all the others. "Pikuach Nefesh do’che et ha’kol The saving of live takes precedence over everything." The Torah states: "Choose life in order that you may live." The Talmud reinforces thisidea: "Never expose yourself unnecessarily to danger; a miracle may not save you...and if it does, it will be deducted from your share of luck or merit"

Why all these words to remind us that our own life, the lives of others and avoiding danger is so important? Because often we lose sight of the greater task at hand: be safe so you and others can enjoy life tomorrow and fulfill all your hopes.

With the wisdom of the Biblical writers, the rabbis and sages of history and the all-important guidance of the weather reports, we at Or Chadash urge you to have a SAFE Shabbat at home, with friends and family. Below is an announcement from a group of us. We all look forward to celebrating Shabbat with you in the future.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Joseph M. Forman

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