When the Torah first mentions the Mitzva of  arba minim (the four species), the verse (Vayikra 23:43) refers to the etrog with the term "pri etz hadar" (the beautiful fruit of the tree).  The Talmud in Sukka (35a) explains how this specific description relates to the etrog. The gemara suggests that by calling the fruit, the "fruit of the tree," the verse is comparing the fruit to the tree, thus the gemara  concludes that an etrog's bark must taste the same as the fruit itself. Secondly, in a play on the word "hadar," the gemara derives that an etrog must stay on the tree all year-round.

Perhaps these two descriptions of the nature of the etrog can help us better understand another medrash, this one found in Parashat Emor. In this medrash, our sages compare the four species to four different types of Jews. The etrog, which is both fragrant and tasty, represents the complete tzaddik.  It is possible that the aforementioned qualities of the etrog, can also fit in with the symbolism of viewing the etrog as the tzaddik. The requirement of a similar taste for the bark and fruit teaches that a true tzaddik is pious internally and externally. He serves Hashem with the best intentions and his actions match his inner thoughts. This genuineness naturally produces the second trait, consistency. One who is truly righteous will serve Hashem under all circumstances without condition.  Just like the etrog remains on the branch all year-round, Torah observance for a tzaddik is not a matter of convenience, but a lifelong commitment.

This lesson can also be understood in the connection between the Yamim Noraim and Sukkot. Sukkot finds itself at the end of of the "Tishrei" holidays. After we are judged by Hashem on Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur, we bask in the glory of G-d by sitting in the Sukkah. Throughout our liturgy, Sukkot is described as "z'man simchateinu"- "our time of joy."  Even though there is an obligation of simcha on every holiday, the Torah places a particular emphasis of simcha in the context of Sukkot.  In essence, we transition from days of awe to days of joy. Perhaps the Torah is emphasizing an important lesson with the juxtaposition of these these two themes.  After Yom Kippur, we all feel like "etrog Jews." We have spent twenty five hours in shul, striving to reach the spiritual heights of the tzaddikim  among us. The Torah is telling us that like the etrog is consistent in its mission, so we too must be consistent and not only serve Hashem out of awe and fear, but out of joy as well. 

Hopefully, this will be a year of blessing and joy for all of us, and we will continue to find joy in all aspects of serving of Hashem. 

BHS Orientation

 Guys, watch this magic trick I just learned it. 

The BHS is off to a great start after a fun and informative orientation to kick off the school year. We started in the JCC with an ice breaker. We broke into groups of threes and each group had to come up with something unique they all had in common, they then shared with the rest of the school. (Try it -- it's harder than you think!) Before we got to the nuts and bolts (all the rules!) we read the mission statement. All of our school policies are in place to create a structure that allows us to fulfill our mission statement. 

After rules, schedules and ID's for new students, we were ready for our trek to Wightman Park. At the park we split up into small groups and each group was given supplies: a fork, a paintbrush, some newspaper and tape and a raw egg. The goal was to build a nest for the egg so when we dropped it from the top of the bleachers, it wouldn't break. The result: no broken eggs!

 Rabbi Smith

GHS Orientation 

If chilling were a subject, we would all ace it!

Picture this:

• Groups of girls collaboratively brainstorming on how to design and furnish their student lounge and outdoor area. 
• Teams of students rushing to stores to buy items they researched to create an area that is comfortable and welcoming for the whole high school.  
• A student-created area that is suitable for studying and socializing alike,  where all students feel welcome. 
• High school girls sitting around a Shabbos table late Friday night singing Zemiros and teaching each other new songs, arms around each other as they enjoy the Shabbos together as a unified student body. Sounds of laughter filling the house as they play one game after another. 
• Grade barriers broken down as the students feel comfortable and accepted by one another. 
• Students returning to school after a long day to attend an optional and incredibly inspirational learning program. 
• Active participation in the Chabura demonstrates their thirst for Torah. 
  
   This is how the school year for Hillel Academy Girls High School has begun. Come downstairs to visit and you will see for yourself the extraordinary atmosphere that is shared among our students!  

Elementary and Middle School Fun in the Sun

 Wow, we knew that Hillel students learn so hard they are on fire, but we never meant to take it literally. For real, who can remember how Mr. Will created this huge blue flame?

Summer vacation may be over, but the fun is just beginning! On our first day back in school, students in grades K-8 slipped right back into learning with a full and exciting day of classes. By 8:10 in the morning the second floor classes were buzzing with learning and davening! Over the course of the day, the students learned about the new Middos program: the Better LYFE (Love Your Friend forEver) Initiative. Our overall theme is "Simu levavchem al darkeichem"  [Chaggai 1:7], reminding us to think before we act and create a plan that leads us to our goals. We will focus on a series of Middos starting with respect for other people's property as exemplified by the Mitzvah of Hashovas Aveidah (returning lost objects to their rightful owners).

 The afternoon featured a Mad Science performance. The students marveled at demonstrations of vacuums, air pressure, and the remarkable properties of dry ice -- giving them a taste of science learning fun to start their year. Grades K-3 are in the mist of their Mad Science club. Grades 5-8 girls and boys will begin after break. Keep posted and remember to always check the Hillel calendar on our website hillelpgh.org.  

Back to School BBQ

                                   
                              Animals and balloons made one fun-filled afternoon.

The new school year got off to a celebratory start with the Back to School BBQ on Wednesday, September 5. Hillel staff and students of every age - from Tiny Tots to high school seniors - joined their families for a fun-filled evening that included pony rides, a petting zoo, moon bounces, carnival games, a giant slide and balloon creations from Mike the Balloon Guy. Chef Mordy Brown and a team of volunteers grilled hot dogs and hamburgers, and provided other tasty items, including chicken nuggets, side dishes and Rita's ices.

Altogether, the BBQ was a spirited and fun way to welcome everyone back for an exciting new year at Hillel Academy.

Mrs. Jablow