Search
15 essays
Kindness Personified: Boaz and the True Definition of Toras Chesed
The essay explores the character of Boaz as the paradigm of kindness (Chesed) and explains why Megillas Rut is read on Shavuos. It resolves a difficult Midrash about Boaz's intentions by defining 'Toras Chesed' as Torah Lishmah, which serves as the ultimate kindness to one's own soul (Neshama) by securing a portion in the World to Come.
Medrash
Kedoshimתשפ״ד
Kedoshim – פרק כ׳׳א: Holy in Name
The essay surveys the various pshat approaches to the Melech referenced in Tehillim 21 (Melech HaMoshiach per Medrash Tehillim, Dovid after Bas Sheva per Rashi, Dovid's coronation per Radak/Meiri, Chizkiyahu per the Ry"d), showing that in every reading the king's glory derives entirely from HKBH. It then turns to the Medrash Tehillim's drash that Hashem shares His honor with those who fear Him — including permitting Klal Yisroel to bear His name 'Kadosh' — and asks why specifically that name. Drawing on the Sifra and the Ksav Sofer, the essay concludes that Hashem's Prishus does not preclude His involvement in human affairs, and likewise our pursuit of Kedusha need not mean ascetic withdrawal from the physical world but rather holiness lived among others.
Tehillim
Emorתשפ״ב
Temimus and Sefiras HaOmer
This essay explores the concept of 'Temimus' in relation to the mitzvah of Sefiras HaOmer, emphasizing the importance of self-value and respect for others as a path to spiritual growth.
Parsha
Bechukosaiתשפ״ב
Toil and Trouble
This essay explores the relationship between our actions and their consequences, emphasizing that our destiny is shaped by our commitment to Torah study and the importance of sincere effort in our spiritual pursuits.
Parsha
Tzavתשע״ח
All Fired Up
This essay explores the significance of the eternal fire on the Mizbeach and its connection to the concept of spiritual strengthening through Korbanos.
Parsha
Vayikraתשע״ז
Bigger and Smaller
The essay explores the significance of Korbanos, particularly the Minchas Ani, emphasizing the importance of self-diminishment in spiritual growth and connection to Hashem.
Parsha
Metzoraתשע״ז
Carefully Raised
This essay explores the Halachos of Tumah and the importance of maintaining Tahara, emphasizing the connection between avoiding Tumah and personal elevation.
Parsha
Bechukosaiתשע״ז
Net Worth
The essay explores the Halachos of Erachin, emphasizing the intrinsic value of each person in the eyes of Hashem, based on their potential rather than accomplishments.
Parsha
Achrei MosYom Kippurתשע״ו
Bloodless
This essay explores the severity of the prohibition against consuming blood, linking it to the concept of the Nefesh and its potential for growth and choice.
Parsha
Kedoshimתשע״ו
Parshas Kedoshim: Above and Below
Parshas Kedoshim emphasizes the importance of Mitzvos and their connection to Kedusha, highlighting that our actions can elevate the divine presence in our lives.
Parsha
Vayikraתשע״ו
Soul Food
This essay explores the significance of the Korban Mincha, emphasizing that even a simple offering from an Ani is valued by Hashem as if it were a greater sacrifice, highlighting the importance of intention and closeness to God.
Parsha
SheminiParshas Parahתשע״ו
Waters of Change
This essay explores the connection between Parshas Shmini and Parshas Parah, emphasizing the themes of Tahara and the impact of Tzaddikim's passing on the community's spiritual growth.
Parsha
Weeks and Weeks
This essay discusses the mitzvos of Yomim Tovim and Sefiras HaOmer, emphasizing the importance of spiritual growth during this period.
Parsha
Kedoshimתשע״ד
Our Endless Capacity
This essay explores the concept of Kedoshim Tehiyu, emphasizing our potential to attain holiness through everyday mitzvos and personal growth.
Parsha
BechukosaiYom Kippurתשע״ד
The Optimism of Torah
The essay explores the significance of Lag B'Omer, celebrating R' Akiva's resilience and optimism after the loss of his students, emphasizing the importance of seeing the hidden good in every circumstance.
Parsha