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15 essays
Boתשפ״ו
Bread Line
The essay explores the Midrashic connection between the Matzah eaten with the Korban Pesach and the cakes (ugos) Sarah Immenu prepared for the angels. It posits that while 'Lechem' (bread) represents a compromise connecting the physical and spiritual, Matzah represents a higher existence of true freedom (Cheirus) where the physical is entirely elevated to the spiritual.
Medrash
Vayeraתשפ״ו
Laughing Matter
The essay explores the profound nature of Sarah's laughter (tzchok) upon the birth of Yitzchak, explaining that his birth triggered global miracles including the healing of the sick and the brightening of the sun and moon. By analyzing the name Yitzchak as an acronym for his parents' ages and the ten trials of Avraham, the author argues that Yitzchak represents the synthesis of Din (judgment) and Rachamim (mercy), teaching that true joy comes from recognizing how challenges and trials lead to ultimate salvation.
Medrash
Ki Savoתשפ״ד
Joyful Hearts
This essay explores the themes of joy, wisdom, and song in the context of Tehillim, emphasizing the importance of serving Hashem with joy and the connection between joy and wisdom.
Tehillim
Ki Savoתשפ״ב
Ki Sava – פרק ק׳׳א: Vocal Chords
The essay asks why the Tochacha attributes the Klalos to a failure to serve Hashem "B'Simcha U'BiTuv Levav," noting the Gemara in Erachin identifies that phrase with Shira. Drawing on Rav Hutner's Pachad Yitzchok, it explains that Dibur, and especially Shira, is a "Peleh"—a link between Ruchani and Gashmi—so Shira is the proper response to moments when the Hanhaga of Olam Habah breaks into Olam Hazeh. Dovid Hamelech's "Im Chesed Ashira Im Mishpat Ashira" expresses a constant state of Peleh, in which Din and Rachamim are recognized as one, which is what enabled his exacting, God-centered Malchus. The Klalos come precisely when we separate Chesed from Mishpat and thereby lose our voice for Shira.
Parsha
Sukkosתשפ״א
Sukkos Before Everything
The essay explores the significance of the Keruvim in the context of the Binyan HaMikdash and their connection to the themes of creation and closeness to Hashem during Sukkos.
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
Vezos HaberachaSimchas Torahתשע״ח
All Aglow
The essay explores the significance of Simchas Torah, emphasizing the joy of completing the Torah and starting anew, while reflecting on the spiritual heights achievable through a connection to the Torah.
Parsha
Simchas Torahתשע״ז
Sing a Song
Simchas Torah is a celebration of the completion of the yearly cycle of Krias Hatorah, emphasizing the individuality of each person's relationship with the Torah and the importance of making it one's own.
Parsha
Simchas Torahתשע״ו
The End of the Road
Simchas Torah marks the completion of the Torah cycle, emphasizing unity and connection among Klal Yisroel. It highlights the importance of celebrating together as a community.
Parsha
Sukkosתשע״ו
The Promise of Sukkos
The essay explores the unique joy of Sukkos, connecting it to the spiritual purification of Yom Kippur and the legacy of Yaakov Avinu. It emphasizes that true happiness on Sukkos stems from a renewed commitment to serving Hashem.
Parsha
Nasoתשע״ו
Wine or Wine Not
This essay explores the connections between the Parsha of Nasso, focusing on the themes of Nazir, Sotah, and Birchas Kohanim, particularly regarding the role of wine in Jewish life.
Parsha
Ki SavoRosh Hashanahתשע״ה
It’s Contagious
The essay explores the significance of reading the Tochecha in Parshas Ki Savo before Rosh Hashana, emphasizing the importance of serving Hashem with joy and the contagious nature of happiness.
Parsha
Sukkosתשע״ה
Thinking About the Sukkah
The essay explores the unique mitzvos of Sukkos, emphasizing the need for intention (kavana) when fulfilling the mitzvah of sitting in the Sukkah, and connects this to the love Hashem has for the Jewish people.
Parsha
Shavuosתשע״ד
Celebrating Ourselves
The essay discusses the significance of Shavuos and the Aseres Hadibros, emphasizing that the Torah is a guide for self-improvement and personal growth.
Parsha
Ki Savoתשע״ד
Hapiness For Ourselves and Others
The essay explores the significance of Ma'aser Ani and its connection to joy and divine favor, emphasizing how giving with happiness can transform negative emotions into positive ones.
Parsha