Sefer Vayikra ends off with the passuk “These are the commandments that Hashem commanded Moshe to Bnei Yisrael on Har Sinai.” There is a concept in the Torah to always strive to connect the end with the beginning. In doing so, this shows the Torah never ends. In Vayikra, what is the connection between the first words “Vayikra el Moshe” and the last “bhar Sinai”?

In parshas Vayikra, the aleph in Vayikra is written smaller than the rest of the letters in the word. When Hashem spoke to Bilaam the Torah uses the term Vayikar. This means that Hashem had a reason to speak to him although He didn't do so lovingly. Because of Moshe’s humility he wished that he also be described the same way, “Vayikar” without the aleph. Nevertheless, Hashem told Moshe to include it as an expression of affection. Moshe being too humble to do so wholeheartedly, wrote the aleph small instead.

How did Moshe reach this great humility? The first line of pirkei Avos says “Moshe kibeil Torah misinai.” Should the Mishnah rather have said, “Moshe kibeil Torah al Sinai”- on Sinai? The word Torah comes from the word hora ah which means teaching and guidance. The mishnah is saying that Moshe received Torah - a guiding lesson - from Sinai on the subject of humility.

As Hashem was preparing to give the Torah, all the big mountains said give the Torah in me. I am more prominent. Hashem disregarded them and gave the Torah on Sinai the smallest of the mountains to emphasize humility which is necessary for Torah.

Because of behar Sinai- the giving of the Torah on Sinai - Moshe surmised the importance of humility and wrote Vayikra With a small aleph.

Gute Shabbos!

Shlomo M. Laufer (10th Grade)

This coming Sunday, Lag Ba’omer, Rambam will be holding its very first 5K Run and Family Day. The ultimate goal is to have fun by running a race through Lawrence while raising money for Rambam’s scholarship fund. All family members are strongly encouraged to come. While the race is in progress all the littles will be catered to a magic and clown show, RC airplanes, parachute fun, fully equipped playground facilities, and more!

Everyone who participates in the race will be treated to a complimentary Rambam T-Shirt. As the runners return they will be greeted by the music of Rambam’s very own band and a world class BBQ. The Lunch will feature words of Torah as well as a trophy ceremony. As an additional incentive to raise money, the grade who earns the most will be treated to a full day fishing trip and BBQ. Currently, the Freshmen are in the lead with an impressive $2,136, followed by the Juniors with $1,934, in a close third comes Sophomores with $1,151.

We are looking forward to seeing all Grandparents, Parents, Siblings, Students, and Alumni at the race!

Eli Lava (9th Grade)