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4 essays

  1. EmorRosh Hashanahתשפ״ו

    Rosh Hashana

    The essay explores the placement of the agricultural laws of Peah and Leket within the Torah's discussion of the holidays in Parshas Emor. It explains that these 'Matnos Aniyim' embody the trait of 'Vittur' (relinquishing ownership/submission), which acts as a spiritual protection against destruction. This quality of self-nullification is central to the theme of Rosh Hashanah—accepting G-d's kingship—and serves as the merit, exemplified by Rachel Imenu, through which the Jewish people are judged favorably and promised redemption.

    Medrash

  2. MiketzChanukahתשפ״ו

    Small Time

    The essay explores a Midrash connecting Shevet Levi to the defeat of the Greeks (Yavan) based on their small population. It argues that Levi became 'few in number' due to their extreme self-sacrifice (Mesiras Nefesh) for the Mitzvah of Bris Milah in the desert, a spiritual strength that ultimately allowed the Chashmonaim to overcome the Greek spiritual onslaught.

    Medrash

  3. Vayikraתשפ״ו

    The Secret of the Korban Mincha

    The essay explores why the Korban Mincha (flour offering) is uniquely associated with the word 'Nefesh' and why, according to some opinions, it was excluded from the vision of sacrifices shown to Avraham at the Bris Bein HaBesarim. It explains that while the Mincha represents the highest level of devotion—sanctifying the physical 'Guf' alongside the 'Neshama'—our national survival and inheritance of Eretz Yisroel are guaranteed by the more accessible sacrifices. Thus, while the Mincha is a lofty spiritual goal, the essential 'Kapparah' shown to Avraham ensures that even imperfect service protects the Jewish people's future.

    Medrash

  4. Achrei MosYom Kippurתשפ״ו

    Yom Kippur

    The essay explores the connection between the Avotomy (Patriarchs) and the Korbanos of Yom Kippur, specifically focusing on the 'Ayal' (ram) associated with Yitzchok. Drawing on the Shem M'Shmuel, it explains that the Ayal symbolizes the 'Gevurah' (inner strength) required to overcome one's natural instincts and Yetzer Hara, a power granted to Klal Yisroel through the merit of the Akeida which took place on Yom Kippur.

    Medrash