Author: Ben Zion
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Derech Hayam – lecture 22
We will continue to analyze the descent to Egypt in the days of the patriarchs. Isaac’s descent to Egypt seems very similar to Abraham’s. Both went because of famine, but when Isaac reaches “Gerar”, in the land of the Philistines, God tells him, “Do not go down to Egypt”. Is Isaac trying to follow in…
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Derech Hayam – lecture 21
The theme of Derech Hayam – not to return to Egypt and not to be submissive to Egypt – seemingly begins in the days of the Exodus from Egypt. But as we will see, this principle begins back in the days of Abraham! In this lecture, we will analyze the first Jewish journey to Egypt…
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Beit El – lecture 2
The Torah mentions many times that God swore to our fathers to give us a land flowing with milk and honey. We will see that this oath took place… in Beit El. In order to prove that, we will follow Abraham’s travels in the land. It appears that he reached Beit El, went down to…
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Derech Hayam – lecture 20
Understanding the significant differences between Gezer and Hazor, helps us understand why Joshua conquered Hazor and burned it down and was not afraid of Egyptian influence. In a very interesting way, the burning of Hazor helps us determine exactly when the Exodus took place! A layer of ash found in Hazor and corresponding to the…
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Derech Hayam – lecture 19
The last and northernmost site on Derech Hayam: Hatsor. The theme of Derech Hayam is to break away from Egyptian influence so as not to be enslaved by Egypt, which is why Israeli Kings never conquered Gezer. So why is the story of Hatsor different? Joshua conquers Hazor and destroys it and its king -…
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Derech Hayam – lecture 18
Derech Hayam and Sukkot This lecture takes place immediately after Sukkot. We will prove that the Israelites did not live in structures called Sukkot, but rather in a place called Sukkot. A place, which is the starting point of Derech Hayam! A place that symbolizes the first time they were truly freed from Egyptian bondage.…
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Derech Hayam – lecture 17
The key to understanding Gezer is in the Torah instruction – not to return to Egypt by the way we came. Israel appear in history as an alternative to Egypt, and the way to Egypt is – Derech Hayam. That is why it was so important for Egypt to control it, and therefore no Jewish…
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Be`er Sheva – lecture 11
Two final insights that complete the picture: What is the meaning of the phrase so common in the Bible: “From Dan to Be`er Sheva”? What distinguishes these two cities? And how does it relate to the unique altar found in Be`er Sheva? Why is Jacob afraid precisely when he is on his way to Be`er…
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Derech Hayam – lecture 16
After learning the meaning of the word “Gezer” in the Bible, let’s try to understand why the city of Gezer was called by this name? And in general – what is so special about “Gezer”? Why did the kings of Egypt always conquer Gezer and why did no Jewish leader ever conquer Gezer? Not Joshua,…