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11 essays
EmorRosh Hashanahתשפ״ו
Rosh Hashana
The essay explores the placement of the agricultural laws of Peah and Leket within the Torah's discussion of the holidays in Parshas Emor. It explains that these 'Matnos Aniyim' embody the trait of 'Vittur' (relinquishing ownership/submission), which acts as a spiritual protection against destruction. This quality of self-nullification is central to the theme of Rosh Hashanah—accepting G-d's kingship—and serves as the merit, exemplified by Rachel Imenu, through which the Jewish people are judged favorably and promised redemption.
Medrash
Shoftimתשפ״ה
Above the Law
The essay explores why a Jewish king is traditionally exempt from human judgment, reconciling the Midrashic view that only God can judge a king with the Halachic reality that Davidic kings could be judged. Drawing on the Mechilta and the Chassam Sofer, it argues that a true king is a conduit for 'Kavod Shamayim' (Divine Honor). Because the king represents the Shekhinah rather than personal power, he exists on a plane above human litigation, provided he maintains the selflessness exemplified by Nachshon ben Amminadav at the Red Sea.
Medrash
Sheminiתשפ״ה
Shimini – פרק ל׳׳ח
This essay explores the themes of pain and silence in Tehillim, particularly in the context of Dovid Hamelech's suffering and Aharon HaKohen's response to tragedy. It emphasizes the power of silence as a form of praise and trust in Hashem.
Tehillim
Vayigashתשפ״ג
Seeing Eyes
The essay discusses the concept of divine judgment and the necessity of public accountability for the wicked, drawing parallels between the future judgment and the experiences of the Jewish people during the Exodus.
Parsha
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
Korachתשפ״ב
Battle of Wills
The essay explores the rebellion of Korach and its deeper meanings, particularly the connection between Korach's descendants and the Psalms attributed to them, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's desires with the will of God.
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
Vaeraתש״פ
Justice for All
The Haftorah for Parshas Va’Era connects to themes of justice and divine punishment, reflecting on the relationship between Hashem, Pharaoh, and the eventual redemption of Bnei Yisroel.
Haftorah
Devarimתשע״ט
See Clearly
The essay explores the significance of the Haftorah for Shabbos Chazon, emphasizing the harsh messages of Yeshayahu's prophecies and their implications for understanding divine judgment and hope.
Haftorah
Ki Seitzeiתשע״ו
Everything To Gain
The essay explores the connection between two Mitzvos in Parshas Ki Seitzei, emphasizing the importance of treating vulnerable individuals with dignity while adhering to the principles of Torah law.
Parsha
Shoftimתשע״ד
Parshas Shoftim: The Yachid and the Rabbim
Beginning with the Torah's unusual description of Klal Yisroel as "V'hanisharim" (the remaining ones) after Eidim Zomemim are executed, the essay shows that every single Jew is a precious diamond whose loss leaves the nation permanently incomplete. Yet from Egla Arufa and the obligation of Levaya we learn (per the Maharal) that the Zechus HaRabim of a Tzibbur offers protection that no individual possesses. Drawing on the Maharal, R' Chaim Shmulevitz, the Rama M'Pano, and R' Simcha Zissel, the author concludes that individuals who take responsibility for others are themselves considered a Klal, and thereby merit the Tzibbur's eternality and leniency in judgment \_ssummary_note":null,"x":null}
Parsha