SPONSORED IN HONOR OF THE BAT MITZVAH OF MYRNA HALICKMAN FROM HER LOVING FAMILY: MEL, SHARONA, JOSH, DOV BER, MOSHE NACHSHON, AMY AND ISAAC

In Parshat Shoftim, Dvarim 18:9-10 it says "When you are entering the land that God is giving you, do not lean to perpetrate the abominations of the nations. Let there not exist anyone who passes his son or daughter through fire or that uses divination, a soothsayer, enchanter or a sorcerer (michashef)." In Parshat Mishpatim, Shmot 22:17 we see the words "machashefa lo tichayeh", "you shall not allow a witch to live".

Witchcraft includes casting spells, consulting ghosts and spirits, making inquiries of the dead and other forms of sorcery.

Why is God so strict about not allowing witchcraft? What is so bad about witchcraft?

In Judaism, we believe that God is above nature and determines everything that happens in the world. Those who perform witchcraft believe that they can change the forces of nature in the world.

The Rambam, Maimonides, in Hilchot Avoda Zara condemns witchcraft in no uncertain terms. "These practices are lying and false, not fitting for Israelites and people of intelligence."

The Ramban, Nachmanides on Breisheet 17:1 says "We should be tamim, wholehearted in the service of God and not consult soothsayers."

According to Rav Aharon Lichtenstein, we should try to reach an intensity of closeness to God that we feel no need for external intermediaries.

How can this closeness to God be achieved?

1. Through Prayer- we must establish a relationship with God on a daily basis and feel free to ask for things when we need them. This is different from witchcraft where a person forces the deity to fulfill their wishes.

2. Through Spiritual Experiences- For those who do not live in Israel, it may be through visiting Israel. For those who do live in Israel, we must not take living here for granted. We must take advantage of and appreciate the spirituality around us.

3. Through Torah Study- starting or joining a study group on a topic of interest can be uplifting. Through studying the word of God we can become closer to God.

I look forward to experiencing spirituality with you here in Yerushalayim