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26 essays
Achron Shel Pesach: Then What
The essay explores the linguistic connection between Moshe's complaint 'U'me'az basi el Paroh' (since I came to Pharaoh) and the triumphant 'Az Yashir' (then sang Moshe) at the Sea. It argues that the word 'Az' signifies the complex relationship between cause and effect in Hashem's plan, where perceived hardships (causes of suffering) are actually the necessary steps (effects of the plan) toward ultimate redemption. By starting the Shira with 'Az,' Moshe demonstrated that the Jewish people had attained the clarity of Emunah to see the hand of G-d even within setbacks.
Medrash
Shemosתשפ״ו
Clothing Choices
The essay explores why the daughters of Yisro identified Moshe as an 'Egyptian man' despite his Hebrew identity. While the Midrash suggests he wore Egyptian clothing, the essay delves deeper, using the insights of R' Chatzkel Sarna to explain that Egypt represented the 'lowliest' kingdom that lacked self-awareness of its blessings. Moshe, as the humblest of men, adopted the positive aspect of this 'lowliness'—true humility—recognizing that all his strength and success came from Hashem rather than his own merits.
Medrash
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
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
Vaeraתשפ״ה
Drawing Close
Kapital 131 reflects King David's humility and reliance on God, contrasting his behavior with that of others in power. He emphasizes steady spiritual growth and dependence on divine sustenance.
Tehillim
Balakתשפ״ה
Dust and Dirt
The essay explores Bilaam's exclamation 'Who can count the dust of Jacob,' interpreting it through Midrashic lenses as a reference to Mitzvos performed with earth. It posits that Bilaam recognized the secret of Jewish survival: the attribute of Shiflus (humility/lowliness). By embracing the status of 'dust,' Bnei Yisroel ironically merit to rise like stars, making them impervious to external curses and spiritual attacks.
Medrash
Ki Seitzeiתשפ״ה
Health and Healing
The essay explores the Mitzvah to remember Miriam's Tzara'as, interpreting it not as a physical ailment but as 'cholei hanefesh' (sickness of the soul) rooted in ego (Gaiva). By connecting the Midrash of Moshe's prayer to the waters of Marah, it argues that Torah and humility are the ultimate healing and preventative measures against spiritual decline.
Medrash
Vayishlachתשפ״ה
Maid Service
Kapital 123 reflects the struggles of Bnei HaGalus and their reliance on Hashem. It emphasizes the importance of humility and spiritual identity in times of persecution.
Tehillim
Shemosתשפ״ד
Shemos - פרק ח׳
This essay explores Tehillim Kapitel 8, discussing its themes of divine greatness and human insignificance, particularly in relation to Moshe Rabbeinu's humility and the significance of his name being written Chasser.
Tehillim
Chukasתשפ״ד
Snakebite
This essay explores Tehillim Kapital 49, focusing on the contrast between material wealth and spiritual fulfillment, emphasizing the importance of Torah study and humility.
Tehillim
Bechukosaiתשפ״ג
Land Made
This essay explores the connection between Eretz Yisroel and the Avos, emphasizing the importance of Hachna'ah in achieving spiritual greatness and the role of the land in the future redemption.
Tehillim
Vayechiתשפ״ג
Sick Leave
The essay explores the themes of illness and divine presence, emphasizing that sickness can be an opportunity for introspection and repentance, as illustrated through the words of King David and the actions of Jacob.
Tehillim
SheminiParshas Parahתשפ״ב
It’s Embarrassing
The essay discusses the significance of Parshas Parah in relation to the upcoming Korban Pesach and explores themes of Tahara and the relationship between Ra'av and Cherpah.
Parsha
Vayigashתשפ״א
Boundary Issues
The Haftorah for Parshas Vayigash discusses the reunification of Klal Yisroel and the promise of living in Eretz Yisroel without boundaries, emphasizing the importance of humility and reliance on Hashem.
Haftorah
Bechukosaiתשפ״א
Our Only Hope
The essay discusses the consequences of following or forsaking Hashem's ways, emphasizing that true hope and purification come from reliance on Him.
Parsha
Shavuosתש״פ
A Sixth Sense
The essay explores the connection between Shavuos and Megillas Rus, emphasizing the significance of the number six in both contexts and the importance of accepting the Torah.
Parsha
Vayishlachתש״פ
Think Small
The essay explores the Haftorah of Vayishlach, focusing on the interactions between Yaakov and Esav and the prophetic message of Ovadiah regarding Edom's ultimate fate.
Haftorah
Noachתש״פ
Waterfall
The Haftorah for Parshas Noach combines elements from two other Haftoros, emphasizing themes of Shiflus and the significance of water as a metaphor for Torah.
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
Balakתשע״ט
Keep Going
The essay discusses the Haftorah of Balak, emphasizing the importance of sincere service to Hashem through justice, kindness, and humility, rather than public displays of piety.
Haftorah
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
Vayikraתשע״ז
Bigger and Smaller
The essay explores the significance of Korbanos, particularly the Minchas Ani, emphasizing the importance of self-diminishment in spiritual growth and connection to Hashem.
Parsha
Ekevתשע״ז
Small Things
This essay explores Moshe's teachings in Parsha Ekev, emphasizing the importance of Yiras Shamayim and humility in serving Hashem, while reflecting on our relative position in the world.
Parsha
Titzavehתשע״ד
Parshas Titzveh: The Message of the Ketores
This essay explores the significance of the Ketores and its symbolism in Avodas HaShem, emphasizing that fulfilling Hashem's will is what truly matters, regardless of one's personal role.
Parsha
Shekalim of Fire
This essay discusses the significance of the Machatzis HaShekel and the concept of Nidivus Lev, emphasizing that the passion and dedication behind a mitzvah are more important than its size.
Parsha
Behaloschaתשע״ד
The Power of Anivus
This essay explores the concept of Anivus (humility) as exemplified by Moshe Rabeinu, and how it relates to discerning the Ratzon Hashem (will of God). It discusses the consequences faced by Aron and Miriam for their criticism of Moshe, emphasizing the importance of humility in understanding divine intentions.
Parsha