Sapphire from the Land of Israel

 Rabbi Abraham Isaac HaKohen Kook succeeded in combining many ideals - Torah Judaism, loyalty to the Jewish Nation, Zionism - into a unified philosophy that continues to influence the Jewish people. Sapphire from the Land of Israel brings texts from Rav Kook's writings that deepen our understanding of each Torah portion, while providing a window into Rav Kook's thought. Rabbi Morrison's explanations are clear and meaningful, offering lessons that impact our religious and practical lives.-- Rabbi Shmuel Jablon, Jewish Media ReviewBecause of their poetic and mystical nature, Rav Kook's writings are difficult even for readers who are fluent in Hebrew and rabbinic texts. Sapphire from the Land of Israel uses a clear, succinct style to provide the reader with a window into Rav Kook's original and creative insights. A companion volume to Gold from the Land of Israel on the Torah, this book presents more of Rav Kook's thoughts on the weekly Torah reading (parasha). It elucidates his views on many topics, including: Why do we find different names for God in the Torah? Why are first-born donkeys holy? Why did the Torah need to give doctors permission to heal? If "eye for an eye" means monetary compensation, why does the Torah not say that explicitly? Why did God command that we bring korbanot (Temple offerings)? Why are only kohanim allowed to serve in the Temple? Why didn't the Torah explicitly state where to build the Temple?