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60 essays

  1. Sukkosתשפ״ד

    Waterway

    The essay explores the significance of the Simchas Bais HaShoeva during Sukkos, linking it to the themes of water and divine intervention. It emphasizes that both joy and troubles stem from Hashem's guidance.

    Parsha

  2. Shavuosתשפ״ג

    Army of One

    The essay explores the connection between Shavuos and Megilas Rus, emphasizing the significance of the Torah and the divine orchestration of events in the lives of its characters.

    Parsha

  3. Achrei MosYom Kippurתשפ״ג

    Entrance Pass

    The essay explores the significance of the Avodah on Yom Kippur, particularly the phrase 'B’Zos Yavo Aron,' linking it to the Kohanim and the Shevatim's merit.

    Parsha

  4. Chayei Sarahתשפ״ג

    Home Building

    The essay explores the significance of Eliezer's mission to find a wife for Yitzchok, emphasizing the divine intervention in creating lasting homes and families.

    Parsha

  5. Chukasתשפ״ב

    Heart Hardening

    The essay discusses the lessons from the Mei Meriva incident in Parshas Chukas, emphasizing the dangers of a hardened heart and the importance of recognizing divine will.

    Parsha

  6. SheminiParshas Parahתשפ״ב

    It’s Embarrassing

    The essay discusses the significance of Parshas Parah in relation to the upcoming Korban Pesach and explores themes of Tahara and the relationship between Ra'av and Cherpah.

    Parsha

  7. VayakelParshas Shekalimתשפ״ב

    The Right Way

    This essay explores the Haftorah of Parshas Shekalim, focusing on the reign of Yoash and the significance of the Aron used for collecting funds for the Bais Hamikdash, emphasizing the beauty of the natural order and divine providence.

    Parsha

  8. Pinchasתשפ״ב

    Waterworld

    The essay explores the connection between the Bnos Tzelafchad's desire for Eretz Yisroel and Moshe's vision of the land, emphasizing the theme of love for the land and its significance in Jewish thought.

    Parsha

  9. VayishlachChanukahתשפ״א

    Book Smart

    The essay explores Yaakov's encounter with Esav's angel, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's enemy. It connects the Haftorah of Ovadiah, which critiques Esav, to the themes of wisdom and the ultimate triumph of Torah over worldly wisdom, particularly in the context of Chanukah.

    Parsha

  10. Ki SisaParshas Parahתשפ״א

    Flock of One

    This essay discusses the significance of Parshas Parah in relation to the upcoming Korban Pesach and the themes of redemption and divine care for the Jewish people, as illustrated through the metaphor of sheep.

    Parsha

  11. VayakelPekudeiParshas HaChodeshתשפ״א

    Hachodesh Princely View

    This essay explores the significance of the Haftorah for Parshas Hachodesh, focusing on the role of the Nasi and Kohen Gadol in the future Mikdash and the implications for spiritual growth as Chodesh Nissan approaches.

    Parsha

  12. TerumahPurimתשפ״א

    Lots and Lots

    The essay explores the significance of the name Purim, emphasizing the role of the Pur in Haman's plans and its deeper connection to the Jewish people's salvation.

    Parsha

  13. Shelachתשפ״א

    The Hard Truth

    The essay explores the mission of the Meraglim sent by Yehoshua to scout Eretz Yisroel, emphasizing the significance of Yericho and its lessons about reliance on divine guidance over human efforts.

    Parsha

  14. Vaeraתשפ״א

    Va’era Serpentine

    The essay explores the connections between the Parsha Va’era and its Haftorah from Yechezkel, focusing on the symbolism of Pharaoh as a serpent and the implications of the miracles performed by Moshe and Aaron.

    Parsha

  15. BeshalachPesachתש״פ

    Achron Shel Pesach

    The essay explores the significance of Krias Yam Suf and the events at Marah, emphasizing the theme of miracles in the Jewish experience and the lessons learned about reliance on divine intervention.

    Parsha

  16. Sukkosתש״פ

    Influential Visitors

    The essay explores the Minhag of inviting Ushpizen during Sukkos, its origins in the Zohar, and its significance in connecting with our Avos and Imahos, emphasizing our direct relationship with Hashem.

    Parsha

  17. VayeshevChanukahתש״פ

    Personalized Attention

    The essay explores the connection between Parshas Vayeshev and Chanukah, emphasizing the importance of justice and the consequences of financial misdeeds as highlighted in the Haftorah from Sefer Amos.

    Parsha

  18. Beshalachתשע״ט

    A Beautiful Relationship

    The essay explores the significance of Shiras HaYam in Parshas Beshalach, emphasizing the connection between Emunah and the beautification of Mitzvos.

    Parsha

  19. Chayei Sarahתשע״ט

    A Blessing on Your Head

    The essay explores the lessons from Eliezer's journey to find a wife for Yitzchak, focusing on the self-serving nature of Rivka's family and the significance of blessings in marriage.

    Parsha

  20. Boתשע״ט

    Action and Reaction

    The essay explores the complex relationship between Moshe and Pharaoh, focusing on Moshe's anger during their final confrontation. It highlights the significance of Pharaoh's words and their impact on Moshe's commitment to Yichud Hashem.

    Parsha

  21. Vaeraתשע״ט

    Self Determination

    The essay explores the interaction between Moshe and Pharaoh during the Makkah of Tzefardeah, emphasizing the significance of Moshe's request and the concept of self-determination in the face of divine control.

    Parsha

  22. VayeshevChanukahתשע״ט

    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

  23. Lech Lechaתשע״ט

    You First

    Parshas Lech Lecha discusses the life of Avrohom Avinu, focusing on his interactions with Malki-Tzedek and the implications of their blessings. It contrasts the spiritual paths of Avraham and Noach, emphasizing the importance of placing Hashem first.

    Parsha

  24. Shemosתשע״ח

    All Natural

    The essay explores the lessons from the Parsha of Shemos, focusing on Pharaoh's ignorance of Yosef and the implications of recognizing divine providence in our lives.

    Parsha

  25. MiketzChanukahתשע״ח

    It’s Obvious

    The essay explores the connection between Parshas Miketz and Chanukah, focusing on Pharaoh's dreams and the concept of hunger that is not immediately visible, emphasizing the importance of introspection in recognizing spiritual truths.

    Parsha

  26. Vayigashתשע״ח

    Man of Action

    This essay explores the emotional journey in Parsha Vayigash, focusing on Yosef's actions and their deeper meanings, particularly the significance of the gifts he gave to his brothers.

    Parsha

  27. Metzoraתשע״ח

    Metzorah: Natural Disaster

    The essay explores the concept of Tzaras, particularly Tzaras Habayis, and its implications for understanding our identity as members of the Am Hanivchar. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing divine providence over natural occurrences.

    Parsha

  28. Re'ehתשע״ח

    Straight Shooters

    Moshe instructs Klal Yisroel on their responsibilities upon entering Eretz Yisroel, emphasizing the importance of following the Torah's path rather than individual judgment.

    Parsha

  29. Nasoתשע״ח

    There’s Always Time

    The essay discusses the significance of the Nesiim's offerings of wagons and oxen for the Mishkan, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and acting upon the Ratzon Hashem in the present moment.

    Parsha

  30. EmorSukkosתשע״ח

    You Know It

    The essay explores the deeper meaning of the mitzvah of Sukkah, emphasizing the importance of understanding and connecting emotionally with the mitzvah as a means to strengthen faith and reliance on Hashem.

    Parsha

  31. Behaloschaתשע״ז

    Destination Please

    The essay explores the conversation between Moshe and Yisro, emphasizing the importance of Yisro's presence for the Jewish people and the significance of treating converts with love and respect.

    Parsha

  32. Emorתשע״ז

    Forever Bright

    This essay explores the significance of the Shemen Zayis in the Menorah and its deeper meanings, emphasizing the importance of community and connection to Hashem.

    Parsha

  33. Emorתשע״ז

    Forever Bright

    This essay explores the significance of the Shemen Zayis in the Menorah, emphasizing its symbolism of consistency and the importance of community involvement in its provision.

    Parsha

  34. Korachתשע״ז

    Korach Stick Figures

    The essay explores the story of Korach and the significance of the Mateh Aron sprouting almonds, emphasizing the message of individual holiness and the power of collective action in realizing Hashem's will.

    Parsha

  35. TitzavehPurimתשע״ז

    Natural Blue

    The essay explores the significance of Mordechai's royal blue clothing and its connection to the theme of divine intervention during Purim, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the supernatural amidst natural events.

    Parsha

  36. VayakelPekudeiParshas HaChodeshתשע״ז

    Parshas HaChodesh

    Parshas HaChodesh emphasizes the significance of the upcoming month of Nissan and the Korban Pesach, highlighting the transition from a worldview of happenstance to one of divine providence.

    Parsha

  37. Noachתשע״ז

    Parshas Noach: Not Together Forever

    The essay asks why the Torah records the story of the Dor Haflaga at all, and what precisely their sin was, noting from the Ran that they could not have literally intended to battle Hashem. Since the Medrash and Pele Yoetz treat their unity as a merit that saved them from destruction, the author proposes that Hashem's dispersal of their language was not punishment but preparation: only one nation may be 'Am Echad,' and the impenetrable unity of the nations would have prevented Klal Yisroel from influencing them. Drawing on the Sforno and Sfas Emes, he argues that Jewish separateness ('Am Levadad Yishkon,' 'Lech Lecha') is precisely the means of being an Or Lagoyim, which is why the Doros of Shem and Avraham's birth immediately follow this parsha.

    Parsha

  38. VayeshevChanukahתשע״ז

    Parshas Vayeshev

    Parshas Vayeshev explores the relationship between Yosef and his brothers, focusing on the implications of Yehudah's words and actions. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the divine hand in our lives, especially during Chanukah.

    Parsha

  39. Vayechiתשע״ז

    Sea Treasures

    This essay explores the blessings Yaakov gave to his sons, particularly focusing on Zevulan's role as a supporter of Torah through his livelihood by the sea, emphasizing the connection between their income and divine providence.

    Parsha

  40. Sheminiתשע״ז

    So Enjoyable

    The essay explores the significance of the blessings given by Moshe and Aharon on the eighth day of the Miluim, emphasizing the connection between their words and the presence of the Shechina.

    Parsha

  41. Behaloschaתשע״ו

    Don’t Be Jealous

    This essay explores Aharon HaKohen's feelings of discouragement when he was not involved in the Korbanos of the Nissim and how Hashem consoled him with the Mitzvah of Hadlakas HaMenorah, emphasizing the unique role of Shevet Levi.

    Parsha

  42. Ekevתשע״ו

    Fathers and Sons

    This essay explores the connection between the experiences of Bnei Yisroel in the Midbar and their commitment to Mitzvos, emphasizing that hardships can lead to spiritual growth.

    Parsha

  43. Toldosתשע״ו

    It Just Happens

    This week's Parsha focuses on Yitzchok's life and the blessings he gave to his sons. It explores the significance of the blessings and the concepts of Hashgacha and Mikrah.

    Parsha

  44. Shemosתשע״ו

    Mark of a Leader

    The essay discusses Moshe Rabbeinu's transformation into a leader during his encounter with the burning bush, emphasizing his innate concern for Klal Yisroel and the qualities that define true leadership.

    Parsha

  45. VayeshevChanukahתשע״ו

    Moonshine

    This essay explores the significance of the birth of Peretz and Zarach, emphasizing the connection between Peretz and the lineage of Moshiach, and the symbolism of the moon in relation to hope and renewal.

    Parsha

  46. Balakתשע״ו

    Parshas Balak

    This week's Parsha discusses Bilaam's attempts to curse Klal Yisroel, which ultimately resulted in blessings instead. It explores the significance of the terms used for curses and blessings.

    Parsha

  47. Vayechiתשע״ו

    The Sound of Chesed

    This essay explores the blessings given by Yaakov to his sons, focusing on Yissachar's role as Lomdei Torah and the significance of Chesed in his origins.

    Parsha

  48. VaeraPurimתשע״ה

    Miracles Amazing Wonders

    This week's Parsha discusses Moshe and Aharon's efforts to convince Pharaoh to free Bnei Yisrael, highlighting the miracles (Nissim) performed during the plagues.

    Parsha

  49. VaeraPurimתשע״ה

    Miracles Amazing Wonders

    This week's Parsha discusses Moshe and Aharon's efforts to convince Pharaoh to free Bnei Yisrael, highlighting the miracles (Nissim) that occurred during the plagues and their significance.

    Parsha

  50. MiketzChanukahתשע״ה

    More Than Meets the Eye

    This essay explores the connection between Parshas Miketz and Chanukah, emphasizing the importance of seeing beyond the surface to understand deeper meanings in dreams and life events.

    Parsha

  51. Ki SisaPurimתשע״ה

    Parshas Ki Sisa – Purim Retrospective Vision

    The essay explores the significance of Purim and its everlasting nature, contrasting it with other Yom Tovim that may not be celebrated in the future. It emphasizes the ongoing relevance of the miracles of Purim in our lives.

    Parsha

  52. Mishpatimתשע״ה

    Situational Awareness

    Parshas Mishpatim emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness and respect, especially those in vulnerable positions, reminding us of our own potential to be in similar situations.

    Parsha

  53. Balakתשע״ה

    Stop and Think

    This essay explores the story of Bilaam and his donkey, emphasizing the importance of pausing to reflect on events in our lives and recognizing the presence of Hashem's guidance.

    Parsha

  54. TazriaMetzoraתשע״ה

    Whose House Is It?

    This essay explores the concept of Tzaras in homes, highlighting its deeper meanings and the hidden treasures revealed through the process of purification, emphasizing the importance of Bitachon and generosity.

    Parsha

  55. Pinchasתשע״ד

    Internal Shalom

    The essay explores the character of Pinchas and his lineage, emphasizing the conflict between good and evil. It highlights the importance of choosing a clear moral path, as exemplified by Pinchas and Aharon.

    Parsha

  56. TzavParshas Parahתשע״ד

    Parshas Tzav—Parshas Zochor

    This essay discusses the unique Mitzvah of destroying Amalek, emphasizing the importance of recognizing Klal Yisroel as the Am Hanivchar and the dangers of losing that identity.

    Parsha

  57. Maseiתשע״ד

    Stops Along the Way

    This week's Parsha recounts Bnei Yisroel's travels in the Midbar, emphasizing the importance of each stop and the lessons learned from both positive and negative experiences.

    Parsha

  58. 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

  59. Re'ehתשע״ד

    The Place of Hashem

    This essay explores the significance of locations mentioned in Parshas Re’eh, contrasting the detailed instructions for receiving blessings with the vague reference to the place of the Mizbeach, emphasizing the effort required to attain a connection with Hashem.

    Parsha

  60. Pesachתשע״ד

    The Yom Tov of Eating

    The essay explores the significance of the Rasha's question during the Seder and how Pesach's Mitzvos emphasize the connection between physical enjoyment and spiritual fulfillment.

    Parsha