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10 essays
BoParshas HaChodeshParshas HaChodeshתשפ״ו
Big Month Ahead
The essay explores the significance of Parshas Hachodesh and Chodesh Nissan, specifically why it is called 'Chodesh Ha'aviv' (the month of spring). Drawing on the Shinover Rebbe, it explains that the 'temperate weather' of spring (neither too hot nor too cold) is a metaphor for a balanced approach to Avodas Hashem—avoiding both over-exertion and spiritual sluggishness—which was the necessary mindset for the transition from slavery to serving God.
Medrash
Shemosתשפ״ו
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
Titzavehתשפ״ה
Pressed into Service
The essay explores the themes of Tehillim 128, emphasizing the importance of meticulous observance of mitzvot and the spiritual growth of children, likening them to olive saplings that can flourish despite challenges.
Tehillim
Mishpatimתשפ״ג
פרק ט׳׳ו - Mishpatim: Zero Interest
Tehillim 15 answers Dovid Hamelech's question of who merits closeness to Hashem, culminating with avoiding Ribis and Shochad — which Chazal explain as refraining even from permitted cases (Ribis Akum, a Dayan recusing himself over past benefit), i.e. acting Lifnim Mishuras HaDin. Drawing on Maharal (via R' Chaim Friedlander) that Ribis is called an 'Ol' because charging interest is intuitive and natural, the essay explains why Chazal equate accepting the Ol Ribis with Kabalas Ol Malchus Shamayim and tie it to Yetzias Mitzrayim: denying Ribis is denying the purpose of the Exodus. One who trains himself to forgo even permitted profit and permitted self-interest conditions himself to place Hashem's will above his own, and is thus worthy of a Makom Kavod.
Tehillim
Terumahתשע״ח
Be Square
This essay explores the significance of the Mizbeach's square shape in relation to the Aseres Hadibros, emphasizing the unity of spiritual knowledge and practical behavior.
Parsha
Shemosתשע״ז
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
Vaeraתשע״ז
Power of Three
This essay explores the significance of the number three in relation to Moshe and Aron’s genealogy and their leadership roles, emphasizing the concept of balance represented by the Middah of Tiferes.
Parsha
TitzavehYom Kippurתשע״ו
Leopards and Life
This essay explores the significance of the Tzitz worn by the Kohen Gadol, connecting its roles in atonement and character development, particularly regarding the middah of Azus Panim.
Parsha
Shemosתשע״ו
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
Enough is Enough
This essay discusses the importance of Nedivus Lev in the donations for the Mishkan, emphasizing that only items given with pure intentions can contribute to something everlasting.
Parsha