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13 essays
Re'ehתשע״ט
Acting Class
The essay discusses the significance of the Haftorah for Parshas Re’eh, emphasizing the themes of comfort and mourning for Yerushalayim, and the importance of external expressions of grief.
Haftorah
Kedoshimתשע״ט
Be Prepared
The Haftorah of Achrei Mos is read during Kedoshim, emphasizing preparation for spiritual growth during Sefiras HaOmer. It highlights the importance of Hachana for Kabalas Hatorah.
Haftorah
Diminishing Returns
The Haftorah for Parshas Hachodesh discusses the significance of Rosh Chodesh Nissan and its connection to the future redemption, emphasizing themes of humility and spiritual growth.
Haftorah
Tzavתשע״ט
Haftoras Tzav
The Haftorah warns Bnei Yisroel about the consequences of their actions regarding the Bais Hamikdash, contrasting joy with mourning and emphasizing the importance of true Simcha connected to Hashem.
Haftorah
Ekevתשע״ט
Our Birthright
This Haftorah discusses the themes of Nechama and the promise of Geulah, emphasizing the importance of remembering our origins in Avrohom and Sara to inspire hope during times of despair.
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
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
Ki SavoRosh Hashanahתשע״ט
So Very Precious
The Haftorah for Ki Savo emphasizes the transformation of Yerushalayim and the relationship with the nations post-Geulah, highlighting the irreplaceable value of life and the Shechina.
Haftorah
Vayishlachתשע״ט
Suspending Halacha
This essay explores the encounter between Yaakov and Esav, highlighting the significance of their meeting and the implications of Esav's kiss. It emphasizes the importance of unity among the Jewish people to overcome hatred.
Parsha
Ki Seitzeiתשע״ט
Swear Words
The Haftorah emphasizes the eternal nature of Hashem's mercy and the promise of redemption, comparing it to the oath made to Noach. It highlights the importance of understanding divine compassion during the days of introspection in Elul.
Haftorah
Unbreakable
The essay explores the connection between Parshas Bamidbar and Shavuos, emphasizing the enduring bond between Klal Yisroel and Hashem, symbolized by the marriage metaphor in the Haftorah.
Parsha
Ve'eschananתשע״ט
V’Eschanan Speak Up
This Haftorah emphasizes the importance of speaking out about the Geulah and Nechama, highlighting the power of our voice in connecting to our spiritual essence.
Haftorah
Shoftimתשע״ט
Wake Up Call
The Haftorah for Shoftim emphasizes awakening from spiritual slumber and recognizing the potential for redemption, especially during the month of Elul. It encourages introspection and growth through the influences of Torah and mitzvos.
Haftorah