| Today is: Friday, Nissan 7, 5772 · March 30, 2012
• Today's 'Nasi': Ephraim
• Sanctification of the Moon
Once a month, as the moon waxes in the sky, we recite a special blessing called Kiddush Levanah, "the sanctification of the moon," praising the Creator for His wondrous work we call astronomy.
Kiddush Levanah is recited after nightfall, usually on Saturday night. The blessing is concluded with songs and dancing, because our nation is likened to the moon—as it waxes and wanes, so have we throughout history. When we bless the moon, we renew our trust that very soon, the light of G‑d's presence will fill all the earth and our people will be redeemed from exile.
Though Kiddush Levanah can be recited as early as three days after the moon's rebirth, the kabbalah tells us it is best to wait a full week, till the seventh of the month. Once 15 days have passed, the moon begins to wane once more and the season for saying the blessing has passed. Links: Brief Guide to Kiddush Levanah: Thank G‑d for the Moon!
More articles on Kiddush Levanah from our knowledgebase.
• Jews Prepare to Cross into Canaan (1273 BCE)
The Jewish nation mourned for thirty days following the passing of Moses. (During this time, Joshua, the new leader of the Jewish nation, sent scouts to spy on the land of Canaan, see Jewish History for the 5th of Nissan). On the 7th of Nissan, the first day after the mourning period came to an end, Joshua instructed the Jews to stock up on provisions and prepare themselves to cross the Jordan river and begin the conquest of the Promised Land. This was the first time Joshua addressed the nation, and they unconditionally accepted him as their new leader. The actual crossing occurred on the 10th of Nissan. Links:
Joshua 1
Joshua
And G‑d smelled the sweet savor; and G‑d said in His heart: I will not again curse the earth any more because of man, for the impulse of man's heart is evil from his youth; neither will I again smite any more everything living, as I have done.
- Genesis 8:21
Chitas and Rambam for today: Chumash: Tzav, 6th Portion Leviticus 8:22-8:29 with Rashi • English / Hebrew Linear Translation | Video Class Tehillim: Chapters 39 - 43 • Hebrew text
• English text
Tanya: Likutei Amarim, beginning of Chapter 39
• English Text: Lessons in Tanya
• Hebrew Text
• Audio Class: Listen | Download
• Video Class
Rambam:
• Sefer Hamitzvos:
English Text | Hebrew Text |  Audio: Listen | Download | Video Class
• 1 Chapter: De'ot Chapter Six
English Text | Hebrew Text | Audio: Listen | Download | Video Class
• 3 Chapters: Tefillin, Mezuzah, v'Sefer Torah Chapter Five, Tefillin, Mezuzah, v'Sefer Torah Chapter Six, Tefillin, Mezuzah, v'Sefer Torah Chapter Seven
English Text | Hebrew Text | Audio: Listen | Download
Hayom Yom:
• English Text | Video Class
| 
