* Translation by Yehoshua Siskin
1. This week we read the ninth and tenth Torah portions — Matot and Masei — in the book of Numbers. And thus we conclude the fourth of the five books of the written Torah.
2. As is the custom when concluding each of the five books, those gathered in the synagogue will declare: “Be strong, be strong, and may we be strengthened.” This year in particular we need strengthening when we finish reading about the journey of the nation to the promised land and the lessons learned along the way..
3. These Torah portions include a number of significant developments such as the call to establish cities of refuge where those who kill inadvertently can find protection. There is also a list of the 42 (!) encampments where the children of Israel stopped on their trek to the promised land. The name of each encampment conveys its own special message.
4. Next week we begin to read the book of Deuteronomy, the fifth book of the Torah, the sum and substance of which is Moses’ farewell address to the nation.
5. This is the second Shabbat that arrives during the period of “the three weeks,” also known as “between the straits,” a period of mourning between the 17th of Tammuz and the 9th of Av. This is also Shabbat Mevarchim, a Shabbat that precedes the new month, in this case the month of Av that begins next Monday.
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