The extraordinary juxtaposition between the segment of this week’s Torah portion of Parshat Va’etchanan for the fourth day pertaining to the repetition of the Aseret HaDibrot—the Ten Commandments and the onset of the saddest day on the Jewish calendar i.e., Tisha B’Av is an opportunity to examine what mindset we need to internalize as it pertains to one topic in particular – and that is MARRIAGE and FAMILY.

It is more than ironic that just before we mourn the destruction of the national Temple, we read the covenant that teaches us how to preserve the temples we build every day – the primary temple being our HOMES.

WHAT IS THE CONNECTION?

At first glance, these appear on the surface like opposite experiences. One celebrates revelation at Sinai; the other mourns destruction in Jerusalem.

Yet they are deeply connected. The observance of Tisha B’Av commemorates the destruction of both Temples; however, the second temple’s destruction is even more heartbreaking as our sages teach that the Second Temple was destroyed due to sinat chinam, baseless hatred between Jews.

If hatred destroys, the antidote is clear – honor the Ten Commandments and focus on acts of love, honor, forgiveness, and respect and where else is a “laboratory” and sanctuary for exhibiting these qualities – but the home and in the context of MARRIAGE.

Marriage and HOME are our Premium Sanctuary

Our Rabbinic literature is full of comparisons between the Jewish Home being considered a mikdash me’at—a miniature sanctuary. And inherent in the analogy is the reference and plea for inviting Hashem into our homes and making our home a dwelling place for the presence of Hashem.  The quality of our marriages has a direct influence on whether that “sanctuary” is filled with shalom or divisiveness, blessing or contempt.

The Ten Commandments Through the Perspective of Marriage

This blog will analyze the connection between the Ten Commandments and Marriage

“I am the Lord your God.”

Every marriage needs a Mission statement.

Marriage is a partnership which requires commitment and mutual respect and concurrence on issues of faith and values, and the ability to rely on these shared beliefs during the difficult........

© The Times of Israel (Blogs)