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Parshas ShemosSefer Shemos

Shemos

  1. תשע״ד (5774) — no edition
  2. תשע״ה (5775) — 1 essay, Parsha
  3. תשע״ו (5776) — 1 essay, Parsha
  4. תשע״ז (5777) — 1 essay, Parsha
  5. תשע״ח (5778) — 1 essay, Parsha
  6. תשע״ט (5779) — 1 essay, Parsha
  7. תש״פ (5780) — 1 essay, Haftorah
  8. תשפ״א (5781) — 1 essay, Haftorah
  9. תשפ״ב (5782) — 1 essay, Haftorah
  10. תשפ״ג (5783) — 1 essay, Tehillim
  11. תשפ״ד (5784) — 1 essay, Tehillim
  12. תשפ״ה (5785) — 1 essay, Tehillim
  13. תשפ״ו (5786) — 2 essays, Medrash

Achron Shel Pesach: Then What

The essay explores the linguistic connection between Moshe's complaint 'U'me'az basi el Paroh' (since I came to Pharaoh) and the triumphant 'Az Yashir' (then sang Moshe) at the Sea. It argues that the word 'Az' signifies the complex relationship between cause and effect in Hashem's plan, where perceived hardships (causes of suffering) are actually the necessary steps (effects of the plan) toward ultimate redemption. By starting the Shira with 'Az,' Moshe demonstrated that the Jewish people had attained the clarity of Emunah to see the hand of G-d even within setbacks.

Medrashwith Beshalach, Pesach

Clothing Choices

The essay explores why the daughters of Yisro identified Moshe as an 'Egyptian man' despite his Hebrew identity. While the Midrash suggests he wore Egyptian clothing, the essay delves deeper, using the insights of R' Chatzkel Sarna to explain that Egypt represented the 'lowliest' kingdom that lacked self-awareness of its blessings. Moshe, as the humblest of men, adopted the positive aspect of this 'lowliness'—true humility—recognizing that all his strength and success came from Hashem rather than his own merits.

Medrash

All Good

This essay explores the concept of 'Tov' in Tehillim 135, connecting it to Moshe Rabbeinu and emphasizing that everything Hashem does is inherently good.

Tehillim

Shemos - פרק ח׳

This essay explores Tehillim Kapitel 8, discussing its themes of divine greatness and human insignificance, particularly in relation to Moshe Rabbeinu's humility and the significance of his name being written Chasser.

Tehillim

Bonding Experience

Kapital 91 emphasizes trust in Hashem for protection and comfort during difficult times, highlighting the connection between faith and divine support.

Tehillim

Pushed Aside

The Haftorah for Parshas Shemos discusses the behaviors leading to Galus and the promise of Geulah, emphasizing the significance of the groups mentioned in the prophecy.

Haftorah

Lone Savior

The essay explores the themes of exile and redemption in the Haftorah of Shemos, emphasizing the role of Yaakov in redeeming Avrohom and the importance of living a life of independence from outside influences.

Haftorah

Shemos Again and Again

This Haftorah discusses the challenges faced by Klal Yisroel in understanding the Dvar Hashem, highlighting the breakdown in communication with their leaders and the need for a renewed connection to the Torah.

Haftorah

Shemos — Free Yourself

Reading Sefer Shemos as destiny rather than history, the essay analyzes the sequence of pesukim marking the turning point of Shibud Mitzrayim, focusing on the cryptic "VaYaar Elokim Es Bnei Yisroel VaYeda Elokim." Citing the Yerushalmi in Taanis that five factors brought the Geulah (Tzara, Tzevacha, Zechus Avos, Teshuva, and the Ketz), it asks why the other four were needed once the Ketz arrived. Using the Mabit's insight in Beis Elokim that sin is a Shibud HaNefesh and Teshuva a Geulas HaNefesh, the author argues the four factors are prerequisites that make redemption possible — and that the Teshuva must be a visible, transformative one, worthy of "VaYaar Elokim."

Parsha

All Natural

The essay explores the lessons from the Parsha of Shemos, focusing on Pharaoh's ignorance of Yosef and the implications of recognizing divine providence in our lives.

Parsha

Name Game

This essay explores the significance of names in Parshas Shemos, emphasizing how they reflect the essence and mission of individuals, particularly in the context of the Jewish people's identity and relationship with Hashem.

Parsha

Mark of a Leader

The essay discusses Moshe Rabbeinu's transformation into a leader during his encounter with the burning bush, emphasizing his innate concern for Klal Yisroel and the qualities that define true leadership.

Parsha

Setting Up The Geulah

This essay explores the early life of Moshe Rabeinu in the context of the Geulah from Mitzrayim, emphasizing how his upbringing in Pharaoh's palace was essential for his leadership qualities.

Parsha