15 Shevat, 5770 Vol. 11, No. 15 Parashas Beshalach
This might possibly be the major reason that many Jews are disconnected from their heritage. A large number may be aware of many of the mitzvos. However, they perceive it as a dry, illogical collection of demands and restrictions that seem unreasonable and unpleasant. If we could reach out to them and show them the beauty and wisdom of a Torah life, and how Hashem has created us according to the blueprint of His Torah so that we achieve ultimate happiness through the mitzvos, it could open their eyes to a world they never knew existed. If we could give them a taste of the radiance of a real Shabbos, the explanation for a mitzvah or the joy of studying authentic Torah with commentaries, it would change their outlook and open the door to reclaim their priceless inheritance. Let us contemplate our obligation, and our privilege, to share the light of Torah with our fellow Jews, and teach it with its full glory and profound meaning, to illuminate their lives with purpose, satisfaction and genuine happiness, in this world and the world-to-come.