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5 essays

  1. MiketzChanukahתשפ״ו

    Small Time

    The essay explores a Midrash connecting Shevet Levi to the defeat of the Greeks (Yavan) based on their small population. It argues that Levi became 'few in number' due to their extreme self-sacrifice (Mesiras Nefesh) for the Mitzvah of Bris Milah in the desert, a spiritual strength that ultimately allowed the Chashmonaim to overcome the Greek spiritual onslaught.

    Medrash

  2. Vayeraתשפ״ג

    Vayera - פרק קכ״א - Heaven and Earth

    The essay explores the origin of the phrase "Ezri M'Im Hashem Oseh Shamayim V'Aretz" in Tehillim 121, tracing it to a Midrash in which Yitzchok silently davened these words while bound on the Mizbeach. Using the Minchas Yitzchok's resolution of the Bais Shammai/Bais Hillel dispute over whether Shamayim or Aretz was created first (based on the principle that the ultimate purpose comes last, and that Shamayim/Aretz correspond to Neshama/Guf), the author argues the purpose of creation is the fusion of the physical and spiritual. Yitzchok's tefillah was thus not a plea born of fear but a request for more time to fulfill his Tafkid in a physical world, and it was answered with "Al Ta'as Lo Meuma."

    Tehillim

  3. Noachתשע״ו

    A Heavenly Scent

    This essay explores the significance of Noach's sacrifices after the Mabul and how they influenced Hashem's decision not to curse the earth again. It emphasizes the importance of overcoming one's desires in serving Hashem.

    Parsha

  4. VayeraRosh Hashanahתשע״ו

    The Best Intentions

    The essay explores Avraham's intentions during the Akeidah, emphasizing the importance of actions alongside good intentions and their lasting impact on future generations.

    Parsha

  5. Toldosתשע״ה

    It’s Not So Simple

    This essay explores the contrasting characters of Yaakov and Eisav, emphasizing how their respective traits influenced their spiritual paths and outcomes.

    Parsha