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8 essays
Mishpatimתשפ״ב
Mishpatim — Slave Labor
Examining the Haftorah of Mishpatim, in which Tzidkiyahu's generation frees its Jewish slaves during Nevuchadnetzer's siege only to re-enslave them once the danger passes, the essay asks why Chazal identify neglect of Eved Ivri as the exclusive cause of Galus, and why the Nevuah of destruction came only after the re-enslavement. Drawing on Ibn Ezra and the Shem M'Shmuel, it explains that the term 'Ivri' recalls Avraham's crossing of the river into a world of spiritual Cheirus; enslaving a fellow Jew therefore denies the very essence of Klal Yisroel. Having tasted renewed freedom and then rejected it, the people showed they had no conception of being Bnei Avraham living M'Ever L'Nahar, and thus forfeited Eretz Yisroel.
Parsha
Lech Lechaתשפ״א
Just Love Him
This essay explores the love of Avrohom Avinu for Hashem and how it shaped his faith and actions. It emphasizes the importance of developing a personal connection with God rooted in love.
Parsha
Achron Shel Pesach
The essay explores the significance of Krias Yam Suf during Pesach, emphasizing the role of Atzmos Yosef in the miracle and the lessons of connection to our ancestors.
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
Yisroתשע״ט
Yisro
The essay explores the significance of Bnei Yisroel's encampment at Midbar Sinai, focusing on their unity and orientation towards the east, symbolizing a connection to light and heritage as they prepare for Kabbalas Hatorah.
Parsha
Vayishlachתשע״ז
A Lonely Mother
This essay explores the significance of Rochel Imeinu's burial and her role in interceding for Klal Yisroel during their exile, emphasizing the connection between her name for Binyamin and her legacy of survival in Galus.
Parsha
Ki Seitzeiתשע״ז
Shoe In
This essay explores the mitzvot of Yibum and Chalitzah, highlighting their significance in preserving the legacy of the deceased and ensuring a Kiddush Hashem.
Parsha
Vayetzeiתשע״ו
The Ultimate Promise
This essay discusses Yaakov's journey and his promise to Hashem, emphasizing the importance of commitment to Torah and Mitzvos for protection during difficult times.
Parsha