Tehillim-The Pesach Psalm-78 I-Alshich

The 13th of Nisan is the Yahrtzeit of Rav Moshe ben Chaim Alshich (1508-1593) [others say 1522-1570]. Born in Adrianople, Turkey, student of Rav Yosef Karo in Adrianople and Rav Taitatzak in Salonica. He authored Toras Moshe. His students included Rav Chaim Vital and Maharitatz (Rav Yom Tov ben Moshe Tzahalon). He became a member of the Beis Din in Tzefas and is buried in Tzefas.  http://www.ascentofsafed.com/cgi-bin/ascent.cgi?Name=rebbeBios;

http://v015u42ras.maximumasp.com/Safedteachings/otherkab/Rabbi_Moshe_Alshich.asp

“A Maskil [Teaching Song] of Asaph; Give ear, my people, to my teaching, turn your ear to what I say (Psalms 78:1).” Asaph admonishes Israel to accept moral instruction so that they will not be punished as had their ancestors, for all their sins described in the Torah and later until the advent of David.

The preacher speaks to the good people who are not really in need of his teachings as well as with the multitude, who need the sermon.

The good Jews who feel close to God may well say, “What can you tell us that we do not already know, and why do we need your teaching?”

Therefore, Asaph addressing these people, says, “My people,” you who are on a higher moral level, listen to the words of the Torah, even if you do not need to be preached to. You will receive a reward for just listening.”

To the multitude, who are in need of admonition and who are not turned off when reminded of what the Torah teaches, Asaph says, “Please incline your ear to what I have to say.” (Alshich HaKadosh, Romemot El)

iPray-iLove-Shema–Pesach: “Even if you do not need to be preached to. You will receive a reward for just listening.”