In our seventy-first Episode “CAN’T WAIT” we address the concern expressed by some about encouraging Am Yisrael to shout, “Ad Matai?!” (Until When [must we wait for the coming of Moshiach]). “Perhaps it’s aggressive, over the top, or even disrespectful.”
First off, the Rebbe argues that the discomfort stems from a tragic lack of urgency and inappropriate apathy about the Geula, rather than reverence for G-d.
To illustrate this, he draws our attention to a fascinating and profoundly revealing story of a Talmudic Sage who was privileged to hear a Heavenly broadcast and then have the extraordinary opportunity to discuss with Eliyahu HaNavi (Elijah the Prophet).
The painful, and urgent nature of exilic dispersion conveyed by saddest of sounds, and mournful words emanating in a ruin begs the question: “How can one not cry out in pain at this millennia-long dispersion and displacement?”
The notion of embracing a respectful position of silent acceptance — due to the possibility of premature timing is easily refuted by a clear Talmudic ruling issued long ago. This is especially so when framed by a related, but disparate teaching of our Sages on Divine comportment.
The veracity of the Rebbe’s approach is further bolstered by multiple biblical era prophetic statements and syntax.
Finally, even casual contemplation easily demonstrates how this seemingly novel approach is entirely in keeping with our time-honoured Torah tradition of prayerful entreaty about the things that really matter.
This is the Seventy First Episode in our ongoing study series on The Geula (final Redemption) referred to as the Coming of Moshiach (Messiah); bringing us practical guidance and instruction of how to get us there faster!
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