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5 essays

  1. Ki Savoתשפ״ג

    Ki Savo – פרק קמ׳׳ו

    This essay explores the themes of faith and redemption in Tehillim 146, emphasizing the importance of trusting in Hashem over humans, especially in times of suffering.

    Tehillim

  2. Ekevתשפ״ג

    Pain Gain

    This essay explores Tehillim 94, discussing its themes of suffering, redemption, and the connection to Shevet Gad. It emphasizes the idea that Torah and Eretz Yisroel are acquired through suffering, reflecting on the spiritual implications of this concept.

    Tehillim

  3. Shoftimתשפ״ג

    Shoftim – פרק כ״ו: Completely Committed

    The essay explores why Dovid Hamelech asks to be judged ("Shofteni Hashem") in Tehillim 26 when elsewhere he pleads not to be judged, contrasting Rashi's answer (he is comfortable being judged relative to Reshaim) with Sforno's (the perek is a plea not to be judged solely on the Batsheva episode). It then examines the meaning of "V'Ani B'Tumi Elech," linking it through two Yalkutim to "Tamim Tihiyeh Im Hashem Elokecha" in Parshas Shoftim and to "Toras Hashem Temima." Citing the Knaf Renanim's insight that the Torah, like water, is savored most by one who has been parched, the author explains that Dovid's very stumble enabled a deeper appreciation of Torah and thus greater closeness to Hashem. The lesson for Elul: rather than fixate on failings, use them to access the reviving power of Torah.

    Tehillim

  4. Yisroתשפ״ג

    Sunny Days

    The essay explores the connection between the sun and the Torah, emphasizing how both serve as sources of light and guidance for humanity. It discusses the importance of recognizing Hashem through creation and the role of Torah in achieving a deeper understanding of divine will.

    Tehillim

  5. Vayeraתשפ״ג

    Vayera - פרק קכ״א - Heaven and Earth

    The essay explores the origin of the phrase "Ezri M'Im Hashem Oseh Shamayim V'Aretz" in Tehillim 121, tracing it to a Midrash in which Yitzchok silently davened these words while bound on the Mizbeach. Using the Minchas Yitzchok's resolution of the Bais Shammai/Bais Hillel dispute over whether Shamayim or Aretz was created first (based on the principle that the ultimate purpose comes last, and that Shamayim/Aretz correspond to Neshama/Guf), the author argues the purpose of creation is the fusion of the physical and spiritual. Yitzchok's tefillah was thus not a plea born of fear but a request for more time to fulfill his Tafkid in a physical world, and it was answered with "Al Ta'as Lo Meuma."

    Tehillim