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5 essays
Vayechiתשע״ט
Final Approach
The essay explores Yaakov Avinu's final instructions to his sons regarding Me’aras Hamachpelah, emphasizing the importance of spiritual over material concerns.
Parsha
Vayigashתשע״ט
Identity Crisis
The essay explores Yosef's strategic decisions to ensure his family's survival in Mitzrayim, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their identity and separation from Egyptian influences.
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
Vayishlachתשע״ט
Suspending Halacha
This essay explores the encounter between Yaakov and Esav, highlighting the significance of their meeting and the implications of Esav's kiss. It emphasizes the importance of unity among the Jewish people to overcome hatred.
Parsha
Undercoat
This essay explores the complex relationship between Yaakov and Yosef, focusing on the significance of the Kesones Pasim and its implications for understanding divine presence during challenging times.
Parsha