It seems from the wording of Tehillim that King David considered himself to be a Chassid (a pious, righteous person). Occupied with purifying women (validating that various blood markings were not to be considered impure) so that they would be permissible to their husbands and dealing with various cases of afterbirths, King David may have imagined himself to have been on the path of righteousness.
However, the Talmud begins with a discussion with King David questioning whether or not he was indeed a Chassid. In fact, King David considered that because of his sin with Batsheva that perhaps he would not merit goodness in his life (at least in terms of the World to Come.) Perhaps his sins would diminish the good things that he had done. Could it be that one’s bad deeds detract from one’s good deeds in life? Can one forfeit God’s protection after having done good – if one goes in a bad path later on?
The Gemara continues with a discussion regarding the opinion of the Rabbis (Chachamim) that one may recite the Keriat Shema until midnight. But perhaps their opinion was actually in accordance with Rabbi Eliezer? Maybe in fact they held like Rabban Gamliel? We learn about the importance of fences in the Torah and the reason why the Chachamim (Sages) instituted fences. A discussion ensues regarding the opinions of Rabbi Yehoshua ben Levi and Rabbi Yochanan as to whether we should recite the Shema before the Keriat Shema in both Shacharit and Maariv, or whether the order may be different when it comes to Maariv. Where is the proof for all this and what does Geulah (redemption) have to do with all this?
Join us for another exciting Sugiya (section) in the Gemara dealing with such fascinating subjects. We’re using the beautiful Koren Talmud Bavli so that the viewer can join us in seeing the original wording of the Talmud together with the English translation. There are notes, information regarding biographies of the various Rabbis as well as Halachot and even pictures to help us understand parts of the text – when relevant.
