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13 essays
Vezos HaberachaPekudeiSimchas Torahתשפ״ו
Make Good Choices
The essay explores why Moshe Rabbeinu was uniquely suited to bless the Jewish people before his death, based on a Medrash comparing him to Adam and the Patriarchs. It argues that Moshe's greatness (As At Alis Al Kulana) stemmed from his profound understanding of human choice (Bechira); by making even a small physical effort (Asok Attah B'Yadecha), one triggers Divine assistance that allows the impossible to become reality.
Medrash
Re'ehתשפ״ו
Re'eh — Good Choices
The essay explores the seeming contradiction between two Midrashim (Devarim Rabba and Eicha Rabba, both citing R' Elazar) about when the paradigm shift occurred that good comes automatically to those who do good and evil to those who do evil — at Sinai or at Moshe's words in Nitzavim. Drawing on the Panim Yafos' explanation of why the Torah writes אֲשֶׁר תִּשְׁמְעוּ rather than אִם, and why וּבָחַרְתָּ בַחַיִּים is needed at all, the author concludes that unlike a detached human advisor who is content to let a student fail and learn the hard way, HKBH has a vested interest in our success and only wants us to receive הֲטָבָה. Internalizing that Ratzon Hashem allows us to see reality through the lens of לֹא יָצָאת טוֹבָה לְעוֹשֵׂה רָעָה even when appearances suggest otherwise.
Medrash
EmorChayei SarahVayeshevSukkosתשפ״ו
Sukkos
The essay explores the Midrashic connection between Rivka Imenu and the Lulav, focusing on how she birthed both a Tzaddik (Yaakov) and a Rasha (Esav). It argues that unlike Ishmael, who was divinely excluded from Avraham's legacy, Esav had the potential and 'shoresh' (root) to be part of the chosen lineage but chose a different path through his own free will. This highlights the theme of Bechirah (free choice) on Sukkos, the holiday associated with Yaakov Avinu.
Medrash
Ekevתשפ״ב
Ekev – פרק קי׳׳א: Fear First
The essay asks how the verse "Raishis Chachma Yiras Hashem" fits into Tehillim 111, a chapter devoted entirely to praise of Hashem, and how the Tanchuma's reading of Yirah as the 'crown' of Torah differs from the plain meaning of 'beginning.' Drawing on the Divrei Sharei Chaim's explanation of the Medrash Pliah of Iyov's three-walled Sukkah, it presents Chachma, Gevurah and Osher as gifts forming three walls, while Yiras Shamayim is the fourth wall each person must build himself. The praise of Hashem in the pasuk is precisely that the greatest crown — Keser Shem Tov, Yiras Shamayim — is not dependent on Mazel or Zechus Avos but lies entirely in our own hands, which is also why Moshe could call it a 'Milsa Zutrasa' opportunity.
Parsha
Pesachתשפ״ב
Heart of the Matter
The essay explores the significance of the Mitzvah of Tashbisu during Pesach, emphasizing the importance of controlling one's heart (Lev) in fulfilling this commandment and achieving spiritual growth.
Parsha
Not By Choice
The Haftorah of Miketz tells the story of King Solomon's wisdom in resolving a dispute between two mothers over a baby. It emphasizes the importance of selflessness in judgment and the divine wisdom that should guide our decisions.
Haftorah
Shelachתשע״ט
Flexible Flax
The Haftorah for Parshas Shelach discusses the spies sent by Yehoshua and their encounter with Rachav, highlighting her transformation and the significance of the flax used to hide them.
Haftorah
Beraishisתשע״ט
Ground Rules
This essay explores the complexities of the curses given to Adam, Chava, and the ground after the sin of the Etz HaDaas, emphasizing the connection between their actions and the consequences faced by each.
Parsha
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
Bechukosaiתשע״ז
Net Worth
The essay explores the Halachos of Erachin, emphasizing the intrinsic value of each person in the eyes of Hashem, based on their potential rather than accomplishments.
Parsha
Achrei MosYom Kippurתשע״ו
Bloodless
This essay explores the severity of the prohibition against consuming blood, linking it to the concept of the Nefesh and its potential for growth and choice.
Parsha
Ekevתשע״ה
Making Choices
This essay explores Moshe's actions regarding the broken Luchos and the significance of the Aron he built. It emphasizes the importance of making choices that enhance Kvod Shamayim, even when they seem counterintuitive.
Parsha
Kedoshimתשע״ד
Our Endless Capacity
This essay explores the concept of Kedoshim Tehiyu, emphasizing our potential to attain holiness through everyday mitzvos and personal growth.
Parsha