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8 essays
Terumahתשפ״ו
Golden Rule
The essay explores the purpose of gold in the world, noting a Midrash that gold was only created for the sake of the Mishkan. It argues that gold represents the potential for both spiritual height and destructive deviation; while it was used for the Golden Calf, its use in the Mishkan serves as a rectification (kapparah) by demonstrating that even the most precious materials must be used strictly 'al pi hadibbur' (according to God's word).
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
Ki Sisaתשפ״ד
Ki Sisa – פרק ז׳ Anger Management
The essay explores the themes of anger and responsibility in Tehillim 7, particularly in relation to King David's mistakes and his plea for divine judgment. It connects these ideas to the prayers of Moshe after the Chet HaEgel.
Tehillim
Hachodesh
This essay discusses the significance of Parshas Hachodesh and its connection to the upcoming month of Nissan, emphasizing the themes of preparation for Pesach and self-worth in serving Hashem.
Parsha
Zochor No Mercy
The essay discusses the importance of remembering Amalek's destructive role and the imperative to eradicate it, as illustrated in the Haftorah about Shaul's battle against Amalek.
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
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
Terumahתשע״ו
The Table’s Turn
This essay explores the significance of the Shulchan in the Mishkan and its connection to the sins committed at Shitim, emphasizing the importance of integrating spiritual and material pursuits.
Parsha