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Rabbi Fishel's Blog

Unfinished Freedom: A Call to Purpose

Dear Friends,

As we prepare to celebrate the holiday of Passover, we are reminded of the quintessential Jewish story of freedom. The Exodus from Egypt, with its dramatic plagues, parted seas, and miraculous manna, is an epic tale of liberation that has inspired countless generations. This year of course, the discussion of freedom feels decidedly heavier, as our own brothers and sisters are still being held hostage in Gaza. This drums up a potent mixture of feelings––grief, anger, disbelief, and even guilt. Why do I get to be free when so many are not? Do I deserve my freedom? Am I doing enough with it?

But before we can try to answer any of those questions for ourselves, we need to begin with a simpler question: What does true freedom really mean? And how can we ensure that our own pursuit of freedom doesn't devolve into chaos and moral confusion?

The Torah's answer to this question is both profound and counterintuitive. True freedom, we are taught, is not simply the absence of external constraints, but rather the presence of internal values and principles. In other words, freedom is not just about being free from something, but also about being free for something – namely, a life of purpose, kindness, and compassion.

This idea is beautifully encapsulated in the Hebrew word for freedom, "cherut." While often translated as "freedom," "cherut" is more accurately rendered as "freedom with a purpose" or "directed freedom." This nuance is crucial, for it suggests that true freedom is not an end in itself, but rather a means to an end – the end being a life of moral responsibility, spiritual growth, and service to others.

Without this sense of purpose and direction, freedom can quickly degenerate into anarchy and moral ambivalence. When we are free to do as we please, without any guiding principles or values, we risk succumbing to our basest impulses and desires. We become slaves to our own whims, rather than masters of our own destiny.

This is precisely what happened to the Israelites during their journey through the wilderness. Fresh from their miraculous deliverance from Egypt, they were initially ecstatic and grateful. But as time wore on, and the novelty of their freedom began to wear off, they started to give in to their selfish desires and impulses. They began to complain, to rebel, and to worship idols – demonstrating a profound lack of appreciation for the true meaning of their freedom.

In contrast, our sages taught that true freedom is not about doing as we please, but about doing as we ought. It is about living a life of purpose, principle, and kindness – a life that is guided by the values of the Torah and the wisdom of our traditions. Historically, the biggest battles the Jewish people have fought have been over our freedom to live Jewishly.

Passover this year brings with it not only reminders of ancient slavery, but images of modern slavery in real time. The Jewish people, and good people the world over, are in anguish over the hostages who have yet to be freed from their literal bondage. Truly, we cannot imagine the depths of suffering they are enduring every moment that ticks by. It seems that at our seders this year, the saltwater in which we dip our karpas may very well be our own tears. 

Thus we revisit our earlier question. Why me and not them? Why do I get to be free, and what am I doing with said freedom? Often we already wonder if we are doing enough with our lives. If we are making a difference in the world; traversing the most purposeful path. While we enjoy external freedom, internally we are far from free. So what can we do?

Let us return to the true meaning of freedom. Let us recall that our liberation from Egypt was not just a physical event, but a spiritual one – a call to live a life of intention, generosity, and connection. And let us strive to make our own freedom meaningful, by using it to serve others, to grow spiritually, to pray for the immediate release of those in bondage, to give charity, to give of our very selves; doing everything in our power to make the world a better place. Not just for the few nor the many, but for all.

In this way, we will truly merit the blessing of freedom, and we will be able to say, with the great Rabbi Hillel, "If I am not for myself, who will be for me? But if I am only for myself, what am I?" 

Looking forward to welcoming you at Chabad Naples, where Shabbat is a celebration of freedom, connection, and true blessing. Wishing you a beautiful and meaningful Shabbat,

Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos  


 

What a Purim! “I” Becomes “We”

Dear Friends,

What a Purim! 

Seeing so many people come together to celebrate with such joy and spirit, especially in these challenging times for Israel and the Jewish people, was truly uplifting. The energy, unity, and warmth in the room were a testament to our community’s incredible growth. You don’t have to wait for a holiday to witness it. Join us any Shabbat and you’ll see the vibrant, overflowing, and truly remarkable community, bursting at its seams.

The most beautiful thing is that each week, friends bring friends, and at the famous Kiddush, we welcome them in the warm and joyous world famous Chabad Naples style. It all reflects the heart and soul of our ever-growing Chabad Naples family.

*****

“I” Becomes “We”

Herb Brooks, coach of the legendary 1980 US Olympic ice hockey team, led a group of amateur players to a stunning victory over the Soviet Union—a moment known as the Miracle on Ice. How did he do it? His team was scattered, divided, exhausted. He pushed them relentlessly.

“How long will you torture us?” they cried. Brooks replied: “Until each of you understands that the name on the front of your jersey is more important than the one on the back.”

In Judaism, community is essential to spiritual life. We pray together, study Torah together, mourn and celebrate together.

Our holiest prayers require a minyan.  Even when we confess, we do so together,not just in the individual, but in the kehillah—the collective spirit.

This week’s Torah portion, Vayakhel—“and he gathered”—reminds us of this truth. After the golden calf, Moses gathers the people to focus on something greater:  Building of the Mishkan (Tabernacle). Each person gave what they could—time, skill, resources. And only through this shared effort did the Sanctuary become a home for G-d’s presence.

Moses knew: the best way to unite people is to have them build together—to lift their eyes beyond the “I” and focus on the “we.”

When we invest in each other and in our community, we discover joy, purpose, and the power of belonging—not just to ourselves, but to something greater, something deep and truly meaningful.

Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos  

 

Let It Go: The Secret to Joy That Adults Forget

Dear Friends,

In just three days is Purim, the time of heightened, unparalleled joy!

Consider this: children, when they argue, swiftly resolve their conflicts, while adults can prolong disagreements for years. Why is it like that? It’s simple. For a child, joy is paramount, while for an adult, the need to be right takes precedence.

A child understands that arguing impedes joy, so they let it go. While adults cling to their need to be right, fueling arguments indefinitely.

In these challenging times, may Hashem bless us with continued unity and reasons to celebrate the joy of Adar!

Our fun-filled grand Purim party is always the talk of the town, and Purim in the 80s promises to be an unforgettable gathering where the entire community comes together in celebration.

Join us for a delicious lunch and a wide array of fun and engaging activities for the whole family, all in true Chabad Naples & POTA fashion.

You won’t want to miss out on the excitement, so be sure to RSVP today online to secure your spot! We cannot wait to see you there!

Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos 

 

Were you made for this moment?

Dear Friends, 

There’s just one week left to Purim, and this special Shabbat before Purim is known as Shabbat Zachor, the Shabbat of Remembering. On this Shabbat we recall the story of Amalek, the first attempt to annihilate the Jewish people. As we journeyed from Egypt to Israel, Amalek attacked us by surprise, and the Torah commands us: “Remember what Amalek did to you on your journey after you left Egypt.”

This commandment runs deep. Today, Amalek is more than a historical enemy. It has become a symbol of all those who seek to harm the Jewish people and Israel. We see this hatred manifest in groups like Hamas and are reminded: Remember. Do not forget.

But there is something else we must remember—our resilience. Amalek no longer exists. The Persian Empire no longer exists. But the Jewish people have not only survived, we have thrived, strengthened by Hashem’s protection and our courage and unwavering commitment.

In the Book of Esther, we find a moment that speaks to all of us. When Esther becomes queen, she learns of Haman’s plot to destroy her people. She hesitates, afraid to risk her life by speaking up. But her uncle Mordechai sends her a powerful message: “Who knows? Perhaps you were made queen for this very moment.”

These words are not just for Esther. They are for each of us. We all have talents, opportunities, and positions that empower us to make a difference. Perhaps everything we have experienced, our successes, our struggles, has been preparing us for this moment. As we face the challenges of Jewish life today, we too must ask ourselves: Who knows? Maybe this is why I am here, to stand up for what is right, to be a beacon of truth, courage, and moral strength for our people.

Is there an area where I can do more? A place where I can find my voice or deepen my Jewish involvement?

I encourage you to join this special Shabbos as we remember not only the persecutions, hardships and struggles of our past, but the resilience that has carried us forward. And as the Book of Esther concludes: “For the Jews, there was light, happiness, joy, and honor.” Let’s bring that light and joy into our lives and community.

And most of all, let’s come together to celebrate at our grand Purim celebration, Purim in the ’80s, an unforgettable event where the entire community, adults, teens, and children, unite in joy. Delicious food will be served, including gourmet brick oven pizza, salads, and desserts. It’s always the talk of the town, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you.

Wishing you a beautiful Shabbat and a week filled with blessings.

Rabbi Fishel & Ettie Zaklos 

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