The Maamados. And the Moon.

Rebecca does a great job on a double summary. Thanks, Rebecca!

What was the job of the מעמדות?

Each day the Yisraelim would read the pesukim that speaks about what was created on that day. They would also fast and pray for the welfare of various individuals. The prayer for each day fit for the creation for that day. We’re crying because when the Beis Hamikdash was destroyed we lost the benefit of these Yisroelim who fasted for us.

When there is an eclipse, it’s not a good sign! But when we do the will of G-d, there’s no need to worry about punishment. There are specific times that are meant so be happy, for example, the month of Adar, which we celebrate Purim in. There are also specific times of sadness such as the month of Av.

What is החמה ברכת?

When the sun returns to the same position it was during creation we are suppose to say a certain brouchah. This occurs every 28^th year. Malibim says it has not deviated for the path it was set by a hairsbreadth:

כחוט השערה

Hashem first created two big lights to rule. The moon complained and questioned how there could be two rulers. So Hashem took what the moon said into consideration by making the moon smaller. It is the ruler of night while the sun rules the daytime.

But can something without free will do something wrong?

No, but the moon teaches us a lesson to not complain and run after honor.

Talmud bavli says that one who isn’t looking for honor will receive it.

Medrish says when the moon complained, it was made smaller and it gave off sparks to make stars.

Malbim says the stars were always there but light from the moon was originally so bright, it hid them. Once the moon became smaller the stars became visible.

The message we get from the moon having the stars to also help him along is:

When you punish someone you should comfort them if they had learned their lesson. Don’t keep reminding them of their wrongdoing!

What do we learn from then sun, who did not complain back or try to defend itself when the moon complained? Someone who is insulted and doesn’t respond to it, Hashem will help him and He has a special love for them! The Gemara promises that Hashem takes extra special care of this person!