28^th of Cheshvan, November 28, 2008

The psalmist voices the poignant plea of the Jew in exile: "We do not see our signs, there is no longer a prophet, nor is there one among us one who knows anything (Psalm 74:9)."  We no longer see the signs testifying to Hashem’s presence dwelling in Israel; the miracles that characterized the Temple period are no longer present.  Prophecy is no longer present; we lack a prophet who can offer us consolation and who can advocate on our behalf, seeking Hashem’s mercy.  In the era of prophets, there was clarity of Divine communication, which we could choose to follow or disregard.  Now, we are without that direct Divine link and feel rudderless and confused.   What we need and seek is the redemption and the rebuilding of the Beit HaMikdash.

Copyright, 2008 Rachel Lerner