A:
I have to explain that.
In the ancient times, there were people who worshiped the moon and therefore it was advised to beware of doing things that they did. When they looked at the moon, it was with a wicked intention – to make the moon a deity. And therefore, a frum Jew didn’t bother. But in his mind he did look at the moon. And he thanked Hashem every month ברוך אתה ה’ מחדש חדשים.
The beautiful moon at night is a messenger to remind us of the Creator. Again, יפה כלבנה – as beautiful as the moon (Shir Hashirim 6:10) It’s repeated again and again in our Torah literature.
And therefore certainly the ancient Jew appreciated the beauties of nature that demonstrated the kindness of Hashem. The moon is such a great benefit to us. Not only as a night lamp that illuminates the streets in the dark. Other benefits, countless benefits.
And yet, we were careful not to stand and gaze at the moon in the ancient times because we shouldn’t be suspected of being idolaters.
But today it’s a dead issue. Nobody worships the moon and therefore if we look at the moon today with the intention of recognizing the kindness of Hashem, you’re doing a good deed and you’ll be rewarded.
And remember every month to utilize the glorious opportunity. Because the Gemara says when you come out to thank Hashem for the moon it’s considered as if you’re מקבל פני השכינה, as if going out to greet the face of the Shechina (Sanhedrin 42a). A remarkable statement! When you see the new moon, it’s like greeting the face of Hashem because the moon is a messenger, a harbinger of the kindness of Hashem.
TAPE # 841 (September 1991)