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10 essays

  1. Ki Savoתשפ״ב

    Ki Sava – פרק ק׳׳א: Vocal Chords

    The essay asks why the Tochacha attributes the Klalos to a failure to serve Hashem "B'Simcha U'BiTuv Levav," noting the Gemara in Erachin identifies that phrase with Shira. Drawing on Rav Hutner's Pachad Yitzchok, it explains that Dibur, and especially Shira, is a "Peleh"—a link between Ruchani and Gashmi—so Shira is the proper response to moments when the Hanhaga of Olam Habah breaks into Olam Hazeh. Dovid Hamelech's "Im Chesed Ashira Im Mishpat Ashira" expresses a constant state of Peleh, in which Din and Rachamim are recognized as one, which is what enabled his exacting, God-centered Malchus. The Klalos come precisely when we separate Chesed from Mishpat and thereby lose our voice for Shira.

    Parsha

  2. Vezos HaberachaSimchas Torahתשע״ח

    All Aglow

    The essay explores the significance of Simchas Torah, emphasizing the joy of completing the Torah and starting anew, while reflecting on the spiritual heights achievable through a connection to the Torah.

    Parsha

  3. Simchas Torahתשע״ז

    Sing a Song

    Simchas Torah is a celebration of the completion of the yearly cycle of Krias Hatorah, emphasizing the individuality of each person's relationship with the Torah and the importance of making it one's own.

    Parsha

  4. Simchas Torahתשע״ו

    The End of the Road

    Simchas Torah marks the completion of the Torah cycle, emphasizing unity and connection among Klal Yisroel. It highlights the importance of celebrating together as a community.

    Parsha

  5. Sukkosתשע״ו

    The Promise of Sukkos

    The essay explores the unique joy of Sukkos, connecting it to the spiritual purification of Yom Kippur and the legacy of Yaakov Avinu. It emphasizes that true happiness on Sukkos stems from a renewed commitment to serving Hashem.

    Parsha

  6. Nasoתשע״ו

    Wine or Wine Not

    This essay explores the connections between the Parsha of Nasso, focusing on the themes of Nazir, Sotah, and Birchas Kohanim, particularly regarding the role of wine in Jewish life.

    Parsha

  7. Ki SavoRosh Hashanahתשע״ה

    It’s Contagious

    The essay explores the significance of reading the Tochecha in Parshas Ki Savo before Rosh Hashana, emphasizing the importance of serving Hashem with joy and the contagious nature of happiness.

    Parsha

  8. Sukkosתשע״ה

    Thinking About the Sukkah

    The essay explores the unique mitzvos of Sukkos, emphasizing the need for intention (kavana) when fulfilling the mitzvah of sitting in the Sukkah, and connects this to the love Hashem has for the Jewish people.

    Parsha

  9. Shavuosתשע״ד

    Celebrating Ourselves

    The essay discusses the significance of Shavuos and the Aseres Hadibros, emphasizing that the Torah is a guide for self-improvement and personal growth.

    Parsha

  10. Ki Savoתשע״ד

    Hapiness For Ourselves and Others

    The essay explores the significance of Ma'aser Ani and its connection to joy and divine favor, emphasizing how giving with happiness can transform negative emotions into positive ones.

    Parsha