Search
6 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
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
Vezos HaberachaPekudeiSimchas Torahתשפ״ו
Make Good Choices
The essay explores why Moshe Rabbeinu was uniquely suited to bless the Jewish people before his death, based on a Medrash comparing him to Adam and the Patriarchs. It argues that Moshe's greatness (As At Alis Al Kulana) stemmed from his profound understanding of human choice (Bechira); by making even a small physical effort (Asok Attah B'Yadecha), one triggers Divine assistance that allows the impossible to become reality.
Medrash
Shoftimתשפ״ה
Above the Law
The essay explores why a Jewish king is traditionally exempt from human judgment, reconciling the Midrashic view that only God can judge a king with the Halachic reality that Davidic kings could be judged. Drawing on the Mechilta and the Chassam Sofer, it argues that a true king is a conduit for 'Kavod Shamayim' (Divine Honor). Because the king represents the Shekhinah rather than personal power, he exists on a plane above human litigation, provided he maintains the selflessness exemplified by Nachshon ben Amminadav at the Red Sea.
Medrash
Balakתשפ״ה
Dust and Dirt
The essay explores Bilaam's exclamation 'Who can count the dust of Jacob,' interpreting it through Midrashic lenses as a reference to Mitzvos performed with earth. It posits that Bilaam recognized the secret of Jewish survival: the attribute of Shiflus (humility/lowliness). By embracing the status of 'dust,' Bnei Yisroel ironically merit to rise like stars, making them impervious to external curses and spiritual attacks.
Medrash
Ki Seitzeiתשפ״ה
Health and Healing
The essay explores the Mitzvah to remember Miriam's Tzara'as, interpreting it not as a physical ailment but as 'cholei hanefesh' (sickness of the soul) rooted in ego (Gaiva). By connecting the Midrash of Moshe's prayer to the waters of Marah, it argues that Torah and humility are the ultimate healing and preventative measures against spiritual decline.
Medrash