Search
12 essays
Ekevתשפ״ב
Ekev – פרק קי׳׳א: Fear First
The essay asks how the verse "Raishis Chachma Yiras Hashem" fits into Tehillim 111, a chapter devoted entirely to praise of Hashem, and how the Tanchuma's reading of Yirah as the 'crown' of Torah differs from the plain meaning of 'beginning.' Drawing on the Divrei Sharei Chaim's explanation of the Medrash Pliah of Iyov's three-walled Sukkah, it presents Chachma, Gevurah and Osher as gifts forming three walls, while Yiras Shamayim is the fourth wall each person must build himself. The praise of Hashem in the pasuk is precisely that the greatest crown — Keser Shem Tov, Yiras Shamayim — is not dependent on Mazel or Zechus Avos but lies entirely in our own hands, which is also why Moshe could call it a 'Milsa Zutrasa' opportunity.
Parsha
Ki Savoתשפ״ב
Ki Sava – פרק ק׳׳א: Vocal Chords
The essay asks why the Tochacha attributes the Klalos to a failure to serve Hashem "B'Simcha U'BiTuv Levav," noting the Gemara in Erachin identifies that phrase with Shira. Drawing on Rav Hutner's Pachad Yitzchok, it explains that Dibur, and especially Shira, is a "Peleh"—a link between Ruchani and Gashmi—so Shira is the proper response to moments when the Hanhaga of Olam Habah breaks into Olam Hazeh. Dovid Hamelech's "Im Chesed Ashira Im Mishpat Ashira" expresses a constant state of Peleh, in which Din and Rachamim are recognized as one, which is what enabled his exacting, God-centered Malchus. The Klalos come precisely when we separate Chesed from Mishpat and thereby lose our voice for Shira.
Parsha
Ki Seitzeiתשפ״ב
Seating Plan
This essay discusses the Mitzvos in Parshas Ki Seitzei, particularly focusing on the significance of Amalek and the connection to Tehillim, emphasizing the importance of enhancing the Kisei HaKavod.
Parsha
Ki Seitzeiתשע״ח
Cloud Cover
This essay discusses the Mitzvah of remembering Amalek and the importance of understanding their tactics to avoid their influence. It emphasizes the need for vigilance among Klal Yisroel.
Parsha
Ve'eschananתשע״ז
Good News
This essay explores the connections between Parshas V’Eschanan and the theme of Nechama, particularly in the context of Moshe's prayers and Hashem's response regarding entering Eretz Yisroel.
Parsha
Ki Seitzeiתשע״ו
Everything To Gain
The essay explores the connection between two Mitzvos in Parshas Ki Seitzei, emphasizing the importance of treating vulnerable individuals with dignity while adhering to the principles of Torah law.
Parsha
Ve'eschananתשע״ה
Adding, Subtracting and Connecting
This essay explores the importance of adhering to the Torah and Mitzvos, emphasizing the prohibitions of adding or subtracting from them, and the contrast between true devotion to Hashem and the pitfalls of idol worship.
Parsha
Good Business
Moshe's final message emphasizes the importance of connecting to Hashem through supporting Talmidei Chachamim, especially as we approach Rosh Hashanah.
Parsha
Ki SavoRosh Hashanahתשע״ה
It’s Contagious
The essay explores the significance of reading the Tochecha in Parshas Ki Savo before Rosh Hashana, emphasizing the importance of serving Hashem with joy and the contagious nature of happiness.
Parsha
Vezos HaberachaShemini Atzeresתשע״ה
What Comes First?
The essay explores the significance of Shmini Atzeres as a day of closeness to Hashem, emphasizing the duality of the day with Simchas Torah and the importance of maintaining a spiritual connection in daily life.
Parsha
Ki Savoתשע״ד
Hapiness For Ourselves and Others
The essay explores the significance of Ma'aser Ani and its connection to joy and divine favor, emphasizing how giving with happiness can transform negative emotions into positive ones.
Parsha
Re'ehתשע״ד
The Place of Hashem
This essay explores the significance of locations mentioned in Parshas Re’eh, contrasting the detailed instructions for receiving blessings with the vague reference to the place of the Mizbeach, emphasizing the effort required to attain a connection with Hashem.
Parsha