"Shamor" in Hebrew indicates those actions we may take that has attached them a prohibition (like do not desecrate the Shabbat). "Zachor" refers to positive commandments, like chanting kiddush on Shabbat. While the prohibition is punishable, according to the Torah, and the the positive command is not, the rabbis have always referred to the positive commands, mitzvot, as being much greater. The positive mitzvah is based on love while the prohibition or negative command carries with it penalties. -Louis Jacobs, based on the Rambam
“Between 1305 and the early 1800’s. the House of Taxis ran a form of pony express service all over Europe…. Its couriers clad in blue and silver uniforms, crisscrossed the continent carrying messages between princes and generals, merchants and money lenders.” –Alvin Toffler, The Third Wave We may think we are the first generation consumed by rapid communication but we are not. Throughout our history it has been a priority. Of course, now in the 21 st century we must ask: are we better or worse for it?
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