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Mincha continues at  1.00pm at A-P GF/459 Collins, using the WhatsApp group to confirm a minyan each day.

Weekly sushi & shiur continues on Wed at 1.10pm at A-P GF/459 Collins – and via zoom. Current topic: dividing common property. Details here and on the WhatsApp group.

Thought of the Week with thanks to Avi Gordon.

One of the mitzvos listed in this week’s Torah reading is that of kisuy hadam, covering the blood of a bird that had just been slaughtered.

What is the reason behind this mitzvah? A fascinating Midrash relates that when Kayin killed Hevel, G-d sent birds to help bury him, ensuring that he was buried in an honourable manner. In reward for this, the birds merited to have the mitzvah of kisuy hadam, and each time one slaughters a bird, he must ensure that its blood is covered, an honourable burial. (Bereishis Rabbah 22).

We see from this Midrash that out of gratitude for burying Hevel, the birds received an eternal reward of kisuy hadam. This really sheds light on the far-reaching effects of hakaras hatov – gratitude.

This can be a model for all of us. We benefit from others in so many ways. Even long after, we should strive to always remember and appreciate what they have done for us, and to try and do something to express our heartfelt appreciation.