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5 essays
Beshalachתשפ״ו
Vision Test
The essay explores why Joshua, a descendant of Joseph, was chosen to lead the battle against Amalek. Drawing on Rav Shlomo Wolbe, it argues that 'Yiras Shamayim' (fear of Heaven) is fundamentally about the 'vision' to see beyond one's own self-absorption; while Amalek embodies the blindness of self-interest inherited from Esau, Joseph's legacy of clarity and perception provides the spiritual tool to vanquish this eternal enemy.
Medrash
The End of the Beginning
Simchas Torah celebrates the completion of the Torah and the beginning of a new cycle. The connection between the creation narrative and the themes of accountability and spiritual growth is explored.
Parsha
Ekevתשפ״ב
Ekev – פרק קי׳׳א: Fear First
The essay asks how the verse "Raishis Chachma Yiras Hashem" fits into Tehillim 111, a chapter devoted entirely to praise of Hashem, and how the Tanchuma's reading of Yirah as the 'crown' of Torah differs from the plain meaning of 'beginning.' Drawing on the Divrei Sharei Chaim's explanation of the Medrash Pliah of Iyov's three-walled Sukkah, it presents Chachma, Gevurah and Osher as gifts forming three walls, while Yiras Shamayim is the fourth wall each person must build himself. The praise of Hashem in the pasuk is precisely that the greatest crown — Keser Shem Tov, Yiras Shamayim — is not dependent on Mazel or Zechus Avos but lies entirely in our own hands, which is also why Moshe could call it a 'Milsa Zutrasa' opportunity.
Parsha
Vayeraתשפ״ב
Fear of Love
The essay explores the connection between Parshas Vayera and its Haftorah, focusing on the character of Ovadiah and the concept of Yirah and Ahava in relation to Nisyonos.
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