Torat Eretz Yisrael: the Sanctity of the Land of Israel

In this series, we will explore several sugyot essential to understanding the role of the Land of Israel in the Torah. While we may touch on Jewish philosophy, our focus will primarily be on the halachic aspects and legal terms surrounding the land. We begin with a fundamental question: what generates the sanctity of Eretz Yisrael? We will delve into the complex sugya of Kedusha Rishona and Kedusha Shniya, examining whether the sanctity established by Yehoshua was eternal or temporary. We will also look at the Rambam’s fascinating distinction between conquering land through war versus establishing ownership through Chazaka, as Ezra did. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, I hope these sources provide deep insights into the unique status of our land. Let’s get started.