Search
115 essays
Achrei MosYom Kippurתשפ״ו
A Silent Scream
The essay explores the Midrashic idea that the Kohen Gadol enters the Holy of Holies with the 'merit of Judah' (Zechus Yehuda). By analyzing the blessing given to Judah by Moses, the author explains that Judah's true power was the 'silent scream'—a prayer emanating from total reliance on G-d, which serves as the ultimate spiritual key for Jewish leadership and the Yom Kippur service.
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
Ekevתשפ״ו
Ekev: Constant Contact
Moshe's words שְׁמַע יִשְׂרָאֵל אַתָּה עֹבֵר הַיּוֹם signaled that after his death Klal Yisroel would no longer rely on his intercessory tefillos — דְּבָרִים אֲחֵרִים יִתְחַדְּשׁוּ. Drawing on the Arugas Habosem's resolution of שִׁוִּיתִי ה' לְנֶגְדִּי תָמִיד with the demand of הִתְחַדְּשׁוּת (unlike a human king, closeness to HKBH only deepens awe), the essay explains that the zechus of Krias Shema — constant connection to Hashem — is precisely what enables the nation to stand on its own. Moshe's hint that they daven for him was thus a test: had they internalized his message, they would recognize they no longer needed his tefillos.
Medrash
Korachתשפ״ו
Ground Rules: Understanding the Mouth of the Earth
Moshe Rabbeinu's demand for a supernatural death for Korach was not a personal vendetta, but a necessary validation of the hierarchy of holiness (Kedusha) in the world. By linking the 'mouth of the earth' to the punishment of Kayin, the essay explains that even inanimate objects reflect God's glory, and Korach's denial of Moshe's unique status was a fundamental denial of the concept of 'Melo Chol Ha’aretz Kevodo'.
Medrash
MatosThe Three Weeksתשפ״ו
Growing Up: The Gratitude of Moshe Rabbeinu
The essay explores why Moshe Rabbeinu delegated the war against Midyan to Pinchas despite God's direct command for Moshe to lead it. By contrasting this with the plagues in Egypt where Aaron struck the Nile and earth, the author explains that Moshe's Hakaras Hatov (gratitude) towards Midyan was a personal realization that his time spent there—though difficult—was essential for his growth and leadership, teaching that even bleak periods of exile can be the catalyst for redemption.
Medrash
Pinchasתשפ״ו
Return Count
The essay explores the significance of the census in Parshas Pinchas following the plague at Shittim. Drawing on the Sfas Emes, it argues that being counted (mispar) represents the dwelling of holiness within the natural order (teva), demonstrating G-d's love for Bnei Yisrael even when they are not at their most elevated spiritual state.
Medrash
Tazriaתשפ״ו
Tazria: Long-Term Planning
The essay explores why the Kohen is central to the diagnosis and purification of Tzara'as. It explains that the 24 Matnot Kehunah (priestly gifts) were a reward for Aharon’s calculated, non-impulsive behavior during the Golden Calf incident. By interacting with the Kohen, the Metzora—whose affliction stems from impulsive speech—learns to adopt Aharon's trait of 'yishuv hadaas' (composure) and long-term planning.
Medrash
Maseiתשפ״ה
Generational Wealth
The essay explores why Hashem showed Moshe the future leaders and sinners of every generation specifically when defining the boundaries of Eretz Yisroel. Citing Rav Hirsch’s linguistic analysis of 'Dor' as a 'connection,' the author argues that Eretz Yisroel provides a unique spatial bond that strengthens the positive influence of righteous leaders over the negative influences present in every generation.
Medrash
Chukasתשפ״ה
In the Clouds
The essay explores why Har HaHar remained standing while the Clouds of Glory flattened other mountains. It connects the mountain's unique 'double-peak' structure to Aharon HaKohen's role as a peacemaker who brought those distanced by sin back to the Torah, symbolizing the inclusion of the 'small' with the 'great' under divine protection.
Medrash
Korachתשפ״ה
Leadership Staff
The essay explores the symbolic significance of Aharon’s staff (Matteh), which a Midrash identifies as the same staff used by Yehuda, Yaakov, and Moshe. It argues that the staff, originating from Gan Eden, represents a level of Bitachon (trust in God) that transcends Teva (nature), serving as an essential tool for Jewish leadership to remain aware that they are merely instruments of the Divine will.
Medrash
Behaloschaתשפ״ה
The King Heralds
The essay explores why the silver trumpets (Chatzotzros) were uniquely reserved for Moshe Rabbeinu's exclusive use and hidden before his death. Drawing on the Netziv's distinction between 'Malchus' (natural order) and 'Tiferes' (supernatural order), it argues that Moshe's leadership represented a higher plane of existence that aimed to unite Klal Yisroel as 'Yeshurun'—a level above the standard natural kingdom.
Medrash
Boתשפ״ה
Truth Be Told
This essay explores the themes of hope and redemption in Tehillim Kapital 43, connecting it to the Mitzvah of Kiddush HaChodesh and the roles of Moshe and Aharon in leading the Jewish people.
Tehillim
Noachתשפ״ד
Time to Laugh
The essay discusses the connection between Tehillim and the events of Dovid Hamelech's kingship, emphasizing the timelessness of these words and their relevance to our times.
Tehillim
Shavuosתשפ״ג
Army of One
The essay explores the connection between Shavuos and Megilas Rus, emphasizing the significance of the Torah and the divine orchestration of events in the lives of its characters.
Parsha
Achrei MosYom Kippurתשפ״ג
Entrance Pass
The essay explores the significance of the Avodah on Yom Kippur, particularly the phrase 'B’Zos Yavo Aron,' linking it to the Kohanim and the Shevatim's merit.
Parsha
Vaeraתשפ״ג
Go Fish
The essay explores the connections between the Parsha Va'era and its Haftorah from Yechezkel, focusing on the metaphors used to describe Pharaoh and the people of Mitzrayim as fish, illustrating their spiritual failings and the consequences of their actions.
Parsha
Lech Lechaתשפ״ג
Missing Persons
This essay explores the connection between Avrohom Avinu and Dovid Hamelech through the lens of Tehillim 89, discussing themes of leadership, faith, and the importance of origins.
Tehillim
Vayeshevתשפ״ג
Vayeshev -פרק י
This essay explores Tehillim Kapital 10 and its connection to the actions of the Shevatim in Parsha Vayeshev, particularly focusing on the consequences of Mechiras Yosef and the implications of their meal after the sale.
Tehillim
Vayigashתשפ״ב
Change in Leadership
The Haftorah for Parshas Vayigash discusses the reunification of Klal Yisroel in Acharis HaYamim, emphasizing the roles of Melech and Nasi, both named Dovid, and their significance in future leadership.
Haftorah
Simchas Torahתשפ״ב
Heart Attack
Simchas Torah marks the end of the Yemei HaRachamim V’HaSelichos and emphasizes the importance of clinging to the Torah during both light and dark times.
Parsha
Chayei Sarahתשפ״ב
Laughing Matter
The Haftorah for Parshas Chayei Sara discusses the transfer of power from Dovid Hamelech to Shlomo, highlighting themes of leadership and the importance of laughter in spiritual growth.
Haftorah
Shelachתשפ״ב
Power of One
The essay explores the significance of Kalev's courage during the Chet HaMeraglim, emphasizing the power of individual conviction when supported by faith in Hashem.
Parsha
Vayechiתשפ״ב
Purest Intentions
The essay discusses King David's final instructions to his son Solomon, emphasizing the importance of honoring those who support the monarchy for the sake of divine honor rather than personal gain.
Haftorah
Shoftimתשפ״ב
Son of Kings
This essay explores the significance of appointing a king in Israel, focusing on King David's final prayers for his son Solomon, emphasizing the responsibilities and spiritual legacy of kingship.
Parsha
Beshalachתשפ״ב
Star Power
The Haftorah for Parshas Beshalach features Shiras Devorah, highlighting themes of leadership and personal responsibility. It emphasizes that each individual is accountable for their actions, as illustrated through the downfall of Sisra.
Haftorah
Vayetzeiתשפ״ב
Strong Personality
The Haftorah for Parshas Vayetzei connects the journeys of Yaakov and his descendants, emphasizing the importance of respecting Neviim and their roles in guiding Klal Yisroel.
Haftorah
Yisroתשפ״ב
Tuneless
The essay explores the Haftorah for Parshas Yisro, focusing on the themes of Kabbalas HaTorah and the significance of Chizkiyahu's potential as Moshiach, while addressing the importance of Yiras Hashem.
Parsha
Vaeraתשפ״ב
Va’era Serpentine
The essay explores the connections between Parshas Va’Era and its Haftorah from Yechezkel, highlighting the metaphorical language used to describe Pharaoh and the implications for understanding the Parsha's themes.
Parsha
VayikraPurimParshas Zachorתשפ״ב
Zochor
This essay explores the significance of Parshas Zochor in preparing for Purim, focusing on Shaul's battle against Amalek and the lessons of unity and kindness exemplified by the Keni.
Parsha
Chukasתשפ״א
Eternal Dispute
The Haftorah discusses Yiftach's rise to power and his diplomatic approach to conflict with Amon, highlighting themes of heritage and historical claims.
Haftorah
VayakelPekudeiParshas HaChodeshתשפ״א
Hachodesh Princely View
This essay explores the significance of the Haftorah for Parshas Hachodesh, focusing on the role of the Nasi and Kohen Gadol in the future Mikdash and the implications for spiritual growth as Chodesh Nissan approaches.
Parsha
Beshalachתשפ״א
I Am You Mother
The Haftorah discusses Devorah's leadership and the miraculous victory over Yavin's army, emphasizing the significance of her song of praise and the role of a mother in providing comfort and hope.
Haftorah
Korachתשפ״א
Keep Going
This week's Sedra focuses on leadership, highlighting the challenges faced by Moshe and the transition to monarchy in Israel. The Haftorah emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility in leadership.
Parsha
Vayechiתשפ״א
Long Days
The Haftorah for Parshas Vayechi discusses King David's final advice to his son Solomon, emphasizing the importance of staying true to God's path. It explores the unique phrasing regarding David's days drawing close to death, highlighting the distinction between physical death and spiritual life.
Haftorah
Behaloschaתשפ״א
Properly Clothed
The Haftorah discusses the Nevuos received by Zecharia during the time of the Binyan Bais Sheni, focusing on Yehoshua Kohen Gadol's symbolic clothing and the implications of his sons' marriages.
Haftorah
MishpatimParshas Shekalimתשפ״א
Shekalim
This essay explores the themes of gratitude and the dangers of ingratitude as illustrated by the story of Yoash and the Mitzvah of Shekalim, emphasizing the importance of recognizing one's blessings.
Parsha
Sheminiתשפ״א
Strong Leadership
The Haftorah for Shemini discusses King David's joyful return of the Aron Hakodesh and the conflict with Michal, highlighting themes of leadership and the importance of drawing others closer to Hashem.
Haftorah
Nasoתשפ״א
True Vision
The essay explores the connection between the Nazir status of Shimshon and his ability to combat the Pelishtim, emphasizing the importance of pure Emes in overcoming challenges.
Haftorah
Vaeraתשפ״א
Va’era Serpentine
The essay explores the connections between the Parsha Va’era and its Haftorah from Yechezkel, focusing on the symbolism of Pharaoh as a serpent and the implications of the miracles performed by Moshe and Aaron.
Parsha
Vayetzeiתש״פ
Can’t Shake It
This week's Parsha focuses on Yaakov's journey and the Haftorah reflects on the significance of Shevet Ephraim, emphasizing the enduring essence of identity despite misdeeds.
Parsha
Chanukah Oil Based
The Haftorah for Chanukah emphasizes the importance of divine inspiration over human strength, illustrated through Zechariah's vision of a Menorah and olive trees, symbolizing the connection between wisdom and the Ruach Hashem.
Haftorah
Chayei Sarahתש״פ
Chayei Sara As It Should Be
The Haftorah for Parshas Chayei Sara discusses the transfer of power from Dovid to Shlomo, highlighting themes of authority and the consequences of challenging established leadership.
Haftorah
Heads Up
This essay explores the Haftorah of Parshas Shekalim, focusing on King Yoash's instructions regarding donations to the Bais Hamikdash and the deeper meanings behind the Shekalim and their connection to themes of repentance and elevation.
Parsha
Vezos HaberachaSimchas Torahתש״פ
Hold On Tight
The essay explores the significance of Simchas Torah and the Haftorah from Sefer Yehoshua, emphasizing the themes of leadership and continuity from Moshe to Yehoshua.
Parsha
Machar Chodeshתש״פ
Humble Beginnings
The Haftorah for Rosh Chodesh discusses the relationship between Shaul and Dovid, highlighting themes of mockery and humility in leadership.
Haftorah
Achrei Mosתש״פ
Order of Protection
The Haftorah for Achrei Mos emphasizes the promise of redemption for Klal Yisroel despite their missteps, highlighting the significance of Malchus Bais Dovid as a source of protection and peace.
Haftorah
Shemosתש״פ
Shemos Again and Again
This Haftorah discusses the challenges faced by Klal Yisroel in understanding the Dvar Hashem, highlighting the breakdown in communication with their leaders and the need for a renewed connection to the Torah.
Haftorah
Beshalachתש״פ
Sing Song
The essay explores the significance of the Shira sung by Devorah and Barak after their victory over Sisra, connecting it to the Shira at Yam Suf and the nature of miraculous events.
Haftorah
Vayechiתש״פ
Speed Bumps
The essay explores King David's final instructions to his son Solomon, emphasizing the importance of maturity and self-control as he prepares to take the throne.
Haftorah
Korachתש״פ
The Voice
The Haftorah for Parshas Korach discusses Shmuel's criticism of Bnei Yisroel's request for a king, highlighting the importance of understanding true motivations in leadership.
Haftorah
Behaloschaתש״פ
Woke
The Haftorah discusses Zechariah's prophecies during the rebuilding of the Second Temple, emphasizing the importance of hope and initiative in the face of challenges.
Haftorah
Boתשע״ט
Action and Reaction
The essay explores the complex relationship between Moshe and Pharaoh, focusing on Moshe's anger during their final confrontation. It highlights the significance of Pharaoh's words and their impact on Moshe's commitment to Yichud Hashem.
Parsha
Terumahתשע״ט
At Peace
The Haftorah for Parshas Terumah discusses Shlomo Hamelech's preparations for the Bais Hamikdash, emphasizing the significance of his peace treaty with Chiram as a necessary step for its construction.
Haftorah
BehaloschaChanukahתשע״ט
Fireproof
The Haftorah for Parshas Behaloscha teaches important lessons about the role of Yehoshua Kohen Gadol and the Satan's attempts to prosecute him, emphasizing the significance of remaining connected to the community during times of distress.
Haftorah
VayikraPurimParshas Zachorתשע״ט
Haftoras Zachor: Sheepish
The essay explores the Haftorah of Parshas Zachor, focusing on Shaul's battle against Amalek and the significance of counting soldiers with sheep to counteract Amalek's inflated sense of self.
Haftorah
Pinchasתשע״ט
Historical Perspective
This Haftorah discusses the significance of Yermiyahu's prophetic calling and the importance of historical perspective in leadership, especially during the three weeks of Bein HaMetzarim.
Haftorah
Korachתשע״ט
Korach: Precipitating Precipitation
The Haftorah for Parshas Korach discusses Shmuel's rebuke of Bnei Yisroel for requesting a king, emphasizing the importance of spiritual leadership over physical security.
Haftorah
Emorתשע״ט
Little Leaders
The Haftorah for Parshas Emor discusses the role of the Kohanim in the future Bais Hamikdash, emphasizing their responsibilities in teaching and adjudicating. It highlights the importance of humility and leadership in Klal Yisroel.
Haftorah
Nameless and Selfless
The essay explores the significance of Levi's actions in the story of Yosef and his brothers, emphasizing the selflessness and kindness that define the character of Shevet Levi, which is crucial for effective leadership.
Parsha
Nasoתשע״ט
Nasso: Nurture Above Nature
The Haftorah discusses Manoach, the father of Shimshon, and explores his character as a non-argumentative individual who rose above the tendencies of his Shevet, Dan. It highlights how his qualities contributed to the birth of a savior for Klal Yisroel.
Haftorah
Chukasתשע״ט
Out of Bounds
The Haftorah for Parshas Chukas discusses Yiftach's origins and his leadership in battle against Amon, exploring themes of character, conflict avoidance, and the virtue of Gevurah.
Haftorah
Pekudeiתשע״ט
Pole Position
The Haftorah for Parshas Pekudei discusses the completion of the Binyan Bayis Rishon and the significance of the Badim that carried the Aron, emphasizing the connection between Kedusha and our ability to carry ourselves.
Haftorah
Sacred Trust
This Haftorah discusses King Yoash's reforms regarding the funds for the Bais Hamikdash, linking it to the Mitzvah of Shekalim and the importance of trust in leadership.
Haftorah
Vaeraתשע״ט
Self Determination
The essay explores the interaction between Moshe and Pharaoh during the Makkah of Tzefardeah, emphasizing the significance of Moshe's request and the concept of self-determination in the face of divine control.
Parsha
Lech Lechaתשע״ט
You First
Parshas Lech Lecha discusses the life of Avrohom Avinu, focusing on his interactions with Malki-Tzedek and the implications of their blessings. It contrasts the spiritual paths of Avraham and Noach, emphasizing the importance of placing Hashem first.
Parsha
Mishpatimתשע״ט
Your Place
The essay explores the events surrounding Mattan Torah and the implications of the phrase 'Na’aseh V’Nishma', highlighting the mistakes of Nadav, Avihu, and the Zekenim, and the lessons of self-awareness and humility.
Parsha
Pesachתשע״ח
Achron Shel Pesach
The essay discusses the significance of Krias Yam Suf during Pesach, emphasizing the connection between Moshe Rabbeinu's actions and the faith of Bnei Yisroel in Hashem and themselves.
Parsha
Vayakelתשע״ח
All Lit Up
This essay explores the significance of Betzalel's leadership in constructing the Mishkan, emphasizing his dedication and the connection between the Aron and the Torah as sources of light and spiritual insight.
Parsha
Shemosתשע״ח
All Natural
The essay explores the lessons from the Parsha of Shemos, focusing on Pharaoh's ignorance of Yosef and the implications of recognizing divine providence in our lives.
Parsha
Vaeraתשע״ח
Be Strong
The essay discusses the significance of Moshe and Aron's ages when they approached Pharaoh, emphasizing that their age represents a milestone of Gevurah, which is essential for their mission.
Parsha
Either Way
This essay explores the Chet HaEgel and its implications, emphasizing the lesson of universal applicability of the Torah, especially in times of despair.
Parsha
Shelachתשע״ח
Grape Fruit
This essay explores the lessons from the Meraglim's journey and their connection to the season of Bikurei Anavim, emphasizing the need for Shemirah and the importance of hard work in achieving one's purpose.
Parsha
Vayikraתשע״ח
It’s Electric
The essay explores the significance of humility (Anivus) as exemplified by Moshe Rabbeinu, particularly in the context of the Korbanos and their spiritual implications.
Parsha
Korachתשע״ח
Korach Authority Issues
The essay discusses the authority challenges posed by Korach and the importance of the Mesorah in Jewish tradition. It emphasizes that personal connections to Hashem should be guided by established leaders.
Parsha
Behaloschaתשע״ח
Long Term Solution
This essay explores the leadership dynamics in Behaloscha, focusing on the roles of Moshe, Eldad, and Meidad, and the nature of true spiritual growth.
Parsha
Sheminiתשע״ח
One State Solution
The essay explores the lessons from the deaths of Nadav and Avihu, emphasizing the importance of unity and proper intention in serving Hashem.
Parsha
Chukasתשע״ח
Seeing Stars
The essay explores the story of Mei Meriva and its implications for Moshe Rabbeinu's actions, emphasizing the connection between divine will and human actions.
Parsha
Re'ehתשע״ח
Straight Shooters
Moshe instructs Klal Yisroel on their responsibilities upon entering Eretz Yisroel, emphasizing the importance of following the Torah's path rather than individual judgment.
Parsha
Balakתשע״ח
Sunny Disposition
The essay discusses the events in Parsha Balak, focusing on the punishment of those who sinned with Baal Peor and the significance of the sun's role in identifying them. It emphasizes the importance of intention in our actions.
Parsha
Beshalachתשע״ח
The Waiting Game
This essay explores the significance of Miriam's song after Krias Yam Suf, highlighting her prophetic role and the deeper meanings behind her actions and the instruments used.
Parsha
Nasoתשע״ח
There’s Always Time
The essay discusses the significance of the Nesiim's offerings of wagons and oxen for the Mishkan, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and acting upon the Ratzon Hashem in the present moment.
Parsha
VayelechYom Kippurתשע״ז
Be Strong
This week's Parsha teaches the importance of facing challenges with strength and faith in Hashem's support, especially during the Aseres Yimei Teshuva.
Parsha
Behaloschaתשע״ז
Destination Please
The essay explores the conversation between Moshe and Yisro, emphasizing the importance of Yisro's presence for the Jewish people and the significance of treating converts with love and respect.
Parsha
Korachתשע״ז
Korach Stick Figures
The essay explores the story of Korach and the significance of the Mateh Aron sprouting almonds, emphasizing the message of individual holiness and the power of collective action in realizing Hashem's will.
Parsha
Balakתשע״ז
Mouth Off
Parshas Balak highlights the unusual role of Bnei Yisroel as background players while exploring the significance of Moshe's strength and the concept of 'Kocho B’Piv'.
Parsha
Ki Sisaתשע״ז
Night and Day
The essay explores the Chet HaEgel, emphasizing the importance of understanding the roots of mistakes and recognizing personal growth to avoid similar pitfalls.
Parsha
Parshas Vayeshev
Parshas Vayeshev explores the relationship between Yosef and his brothers, focusing on the implications of Yehudah's words and actions. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the divine hand in our lives, especially during Chanukah.
Parsha
Vayigashתשע״ז
Parshas Vayigash
This week's Parsha discusses Yosef's reunion with his family and his economic policies in Mitzrayim, highlighting the exemption of the Kohanim from taxes as a form of gratitude and preparation for future challenges.
Parsha
Pinchasתשע״ז
Pinchas
This essay explores the significance of the Korban Tamid and its placement in the Torah, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a personal connection to Hashem even as the national experience changes.
Parsha
Vaeraתשע״ז
Power of Three
This essay explores the significance of the number three in relation to Moshe and Aron’s genealogy and their leadership roles, emphasizing the concept of balance represented by the Middah of Tiferes.
Parsha
Shoftimתשע״ז
Shoftim: These Days
The essay explores the seemingly superfluous words "HaShofet Asher Yihiyeh Bayamim Hahem" in the parsha's instruction to bring difficult cases to the higher court, which the Gemara in Rosh Hashana explains as a warning against comparing today's authorities unfavorably to earlier generations. Drawing on the Bnei Yissaschar's reading that a person's inability to resolve a halachic question stems from his own aveiros rooted in kinah, taavah and kavod, the author suggests the Torah is anticipating the despondency that follows such self-awareness. Rather than lamenting our diminished stature relative to prior doros, we must turn to the Morei Derech Hashem placed in our own generation \u2014 a fitting message for the opening days of Elul.
Parsha
Beshalachתשע״ז
The Oasis
This essay explores the significance of the oasis in Elim, where Bnei Yisroel found twelve springs and seventy date trees, symbolizing the diverse paths to Torah and Mitzvos amidst their journey in the Midbar.
Parsha
Yisroתשע״ז
Universal Response
The essay discusses the events leading up to Kabalas HaTorah at Har Sinai, emphasizing the unity of Klal Yisroel in accepting the Torah and the importance of passing it on to future generations.
Parsha
Unto Others
This essay explores the lessons from Yehuda's commitment to bring Binyamin back and its implications for personal responsibility and influencing others, connecting it to the themes of Chanukah.
Parsha
Behaloschaתשע״ו
Don’t Be Jealous
This essay explores Aharon HaKohen's feelings of discouragement when he was not involved in the Korbanos of the Nissim and how Hashem consoled him with the Mitzvah of Hadlakas HaMenorah, emphasizing the unique role of Shevet Levi.
Parsha
Vaeraתשע״ו
Hakaras HaTov in Parshas Vaera
This essay explores the theme of Hakaras HaTov as demonstrated through Moshe and Aharon's actions during the Makkos, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the good done by others, even inanimate objects.
Parsha
Shemosתשע״ו
Mark of a Leader
The essay discusses Moshe Rabbeinu's transformation into a leader during his encounter with the burning bush, emphasizing his innate concern for Klal Yisroel and the qualities that define true leadership.
Parsha
Vayakelתשע״ו
Risking It All
The essay explores the connection between Betzalel's appointment to build the Mishkan and the sacrifices of his grandfather Chur, emphasizing the theme of Mesiras Nefesh and its rewards.
Parsha
Chukasתשע״ו
Send A Message
The essay explores Moshe Rabbeinu's message to the King of Edom, emphasizing the shared heritage and the significance of Bnei Yisroel's suffering in Egypt as a preparation for receiving the Torah.
Parsha
Pinchasתשע״ו
Take Me to Your Leader
The essay discusses Moshe's request for a successor to lead Klal Yisroel, emphasizing the importance of leadership in both physical and spiritual battles, particularly against the Yetzer Harah.
Parsha
Matosתשע״ו
The Final Act
This essay discusses Moshe Rabbeinu's final act as a leader, tying his death to the war against Midyan and exploring the implications of his actions and inactions.
Parsha
BoParshas HaChodeshתשע״ו
The New You
This essay explores the significance of Kiddush HaChodesh, the first mitzvah given to the Jewish people, emphasizing its role in renewal and growth, and its unique applicability to Klal Yisroel.
Parsha
Vayigashתשע״ו
Wagons of Achrayus
This essay explores the significance of the wagons sent by Yosef to Yaakov, linking it to the concept of Achrayus (responsibility) as taught in the Parsha of Egla Arufa.
Parsha
Yisroתשע״ו
What Did You Hear?
This essay explores the significance of Yisro's advice to Moshe, emphasizing the importance of constructive criticism and viewing others positively.
Parsha
Shoftimתשע״ה
A Kingly Light
This essay explores the role of a king in Klal Yisroel as outlined in Parshas Shoftim, emphasizing the importance of appointing a king who reflects the light of Hashem rather than merely serving mundane purposes.
Parsha
Vayigashתשע״ה
Building for the Klal
The essay discusses Yaakov's decision to send Yehuda to establish a Yeshiva in Mitzrayim, emphasizing the importance of selflessness and commitment to the needs of the community.
Parsha
Vayeraתשע״ה
Nisayon and Emunah
The essay explores the significance of the Akeida as a unique test of faith for Avraham, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the Ratzon Hashem despite external pressures.
Parsha
Not About Me
This essay explores the omission of Moshe's name in Parshas Titzaveh and its connection to the selflessness exemplified by Mordechai and Esther during Purim.
Parsha
NitzavimVayelechRosh Hashanahתשע״ה
Parshas Nitzvim-VaYelech
This essay explores the significance of Moshe's final address to Klal Yisroel on the last day of his life, connecting it to the themes of Rosh Hashana, including the acceptance of Hashem's kingship and the importance of individual responsibility.
Parsha
Shemosתשע״ה
Setting Up The Geulah
This essay explores the early life of Moshe Rabeinu in the context of the Geulah from Mitzrayim, emphasizing how his upbringing in Pharaoh's palace was essential for his leadership qualities.
Parsha
Bamidbarתשע״ד
Degalim and Pikudim
The essay explores the lessons from Sefer Bamidbar, focusing on the counting of the Jews and the significance of the Degalim, emphasizing the human imperfections of the Dor Hamidbar and Hashem's love for each individual.
Parsha
Pinchasתשע״ד
Internal Shalom
The essay explores the character of Pinchas and his lineage, emphasizing the conflict between good and evil. It highlights the importance of choosing a clear moral path, as exemplified by Pinchas and Aharon.
Parsha
Shelachתשע״ד
Knowing Ourselves
This essay explores the failure of the Meraglim, who, despite being respected leaders, allowed their fears of losing status to distort their perceptions of Eretz Yisroel, leading to a grave sin against Hashem.
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
Devarimתשע״ד
Words of Love
This week's Parsha, Devarim, features Moshe's rebuke to Klal Yisroel, emphasizing that Tochacha is given out of love to prevent further wrongdoing. It connects to Tisha B'Av as a reminder of the need for self-examination.
Parsha