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8 essays
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.
Medrash
Ki Sisaתשפ״ו
Our Father Before Us
The essay explores why Moshe Rabbeinu’s prayers following the Sin of the Golden Calf were only answered after he invoked the 'Zechus Avos' (merit of the Patriarchs). Drawing on the metaphor of a grapevine leaning on old wood, it suggests that the Avos established the foundational desire to know and cling to God (Aggadah), and by invoking them, Moshe reframed the Golden Calf not as pure rebellion, but as a misguided attempt to maintain that ancestral connection.
Medrash
Terumahתשפ״ה
High and Low
This essay explores the themes of trust in God and the relationship between the divine and human realms as expressed in Tehillim 115, particularly in the context of Mordechai and Esther's prayers during Purim.
Tehillim
Vayakelתשפ״ה
Inner Sanctum
This essay explores the themes of King David's pleas in Tehillim, focusing on his desire to remove distractions and fully devote himself to Torah and Avodas Hashem.
Tehillim
Vayakelתשפ״ג
Big Tent
This essay explores the themes of yearning for redemption and the transient nature of existence as expressed in Tehillim 61, connecting it to the Mishkan and the importance of how we are remembered.
Tehillim
Vaeraתשע״ט
Self Determination
The essay explores the interaction between Moshe and Pharaoh during the Makkah of Tzefardeah, emphasizing the significance of Moshe's request and the concept of self-determination in the face of divine control.
Parsha
Shemosתשע״ט
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
Ki SisaYom Kippurתשע״ט
Yom Kippur: It’s the Day
The essay explores the significance of the Shalosh Esrei Middos HaRachamim in Yom Kippur prayers, emphasizing their role in seeking forgiveness and the unique spiritual atmosphere of the day.
Tehillim