Search
15 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
Small Time
The essay explores a Midrash connecting Shevet Levi to the defeat of the Greeks (Yavan) based on their small population. It argues that Levi became 'few in number' due to their extreme self-sacrifice (Mesiras Nefesh) for the Mitzvah of Bris Milah in the desert, a spiritual strength that ultimately allowed the Chashmonaim to overcome the Greek spiritual onslaught.
Medrash
Vayikraתשפ״ו
The Secret of the Korban Mincha
The essay explores why the Korban Mincha (flour offering) is uniquely associated with the word 'Nefesh' and why, according to some opinions, it was excluded from the vision of sacrifices shown to Avraham at the Bris Bein HaBesarim. It explains that while the Mincha represents the highest level of devotion—sanctifying the physical 'Guf' alongside the 'Neshama'—our national survival and inheritance of Eretz Yisroel are guaranteed by the more accessible sacrifices. Thus, while the Mincha is a lofty spiritual goal, the essential 'Kapparah' shown to Avraham ensures that even imperfect service protects the Jewish people's future.
Medrash
Achrei MosYom Kippurתשפ״ו
Yom Kippur
The essay explores the connection between the Avotomy (Patriarchs) and the Korbanos of Yom Kippur, specifically focusing on the 'Ayal' (ram) associated with Yitzchok. Drawing on the Shem M'Shmuel, it explains that the Ayal symbolizes the 'Gevurah' (inner strength) required to overcome one's natural instincts and Yetzer Hara, a power granted to Klal Yisroel through the merit of the Akeida which took place on Yom Kippur.
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
Shavuosתשפ״ה
The Meaning of Life
The essay explores the significance of Shavuos as Zman Mattan Toraseinu, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of the Torah and its connection to life, as symbolized by the phrase 'Yom HaShelishi'.
Parsha
Tazriaתשפ״ד
Dying of Love
This essay explores the themes of Tehillim 44, focusing on the historical context of the Bnei Korach and their connection to the plea for redemption amidst suffering.
Tehillim
Vayeraתשפ״ג
Vayera - פרק קכ״א - Heaven and Earth
The essay explores the origin of the phrase "Ezri M'Im Hashem Oseh Shamayim V'Aretz" in Tehillim 121, tracing it to a Midrash in which Yitzchok silently davened these words while bound on the Mizbeach. Using the Minchas Yitzchok's resolution of the Bais Shammai/Bais Hillel dispute over whether Shamayim or Aretz was created first (based on the principle that the ultimate purpose comes last, and that Shamayim/Aretz correspond to Neshama/Guf), the author argues the purpose of creation is the fusion of the physical and spiritual. Yitzchok's tefillah was thus not a plea born of fear but a request for more time to fulfill his Tafkid in a physical world, and it was answered with "Al Ta'as Lo Meuma."
Tehillim
Thinking About It
The essay discusses the significance of reciting 'Mizmor Shir Chanukas Habayis L’Dovid' during Chanukah, emphasizing the power of sincere intentions in fulfilling mitzvot, even when actions are hindered.
Tehillim
Ve'eschananתשפ״א
V’Eschanan: Never Enough
The Haftorah emphasizes the importance of maintaining hope for Geulah and understanding the inadequacy of the Umos HaOlam in achieving Kapparah, contrasting it with the relationship Jews have with Hashem.
Haftorah
Noachתשע״ו
A Heavenly Scent
This essay explores the significance of Noach's sacrifices after the Mabul and how they influenced Hashem's decision not to curse the earth again. It emphasizes the importance of overcoming one's desires in serving Hashem.
Parsha
VayeraRosh Hashanahתשע״ו
The Best Intentions
The essay explores Avraham's intentions during the Akeidah, emphasizing the importance of actions alongside good intentions and their lasting impact on future generations.
Parsha
Pinchasתשע״ה
For The Love of the Land
This essay discusses the significance of the daughters of Tzelafchad's claim for inheritance in Eretz Yisroel, highlighting their courage and connection to the land, which earned them a unique merit in Jewish law.
Parsha
Toldosתשע״ה
It’s Not So Simple
This essay explores the contrasting characters of Yaakov and Eisav, emphasizing how their respective traits influenced their spiritual paths and outcomes.
Parsha
Re'ehתשע״ד
The Place of Hashem
This essay explores the significance of locations mentioned in Parshas Re’eh, contrasting the detailed instructions for receiving blessings with the vague reference to the place of the Mizbeach, emphasizing the effort required to attain a connection with Hashem.
Parsha