Parsha:

Zachor 

Description

Based on a ma'amar (essay) from the sefer "Sod HaChashmal" by Rav Yekusiel Fish. How can we fulfill the mitzvah (commandment) of mechias Amalek (wiping out Amalek) today? Hating the Amalek within ourselves. Recognizing our yetzer harah (evil inclination) yet distancing ourselves so that we live - so to speak - two separate lives: our regular moral and orthodox life, and that, completely disconnected part that sins. What is the connection between Amalek and machar (tomorrow)? Bringing shamayim (the upper world) into this world. Amalek interrupts the pipeline from shamayim to tachas (below) shamayim. Being holy with that which is allowed in this world (kadesh es atzmechah bemah she'mutar lach). Amalek's attempt to poison our lives in this world. The war with Amalek is not miraculous - it's hard work, hand-to-hand combat in this world. Honesty in this physical world and in business helps erase Amalek.