Year
תשפ״ג5783
Pathways
This essay explores the connections between Parshas Beraishis and Tehillim, emphasizing the importance of choices in life and the guidance provided by Torah.
Parsha
Big Tzaddik
The essay explores the character of Noach as the only person in Tanach referred to as a Tzaddik, emphasizing the importance of pure intentions and the desire for Kiddush Shem Shamayim.
Parsha
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
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
Home Building
The essay explores the significance of Eliezer's mission to find a wife for Yitzchok, emphasizing the divine intervention in creating lasting homes and families.
Parsha
Attitude of Gratitude
This essay explores Tehillim Kapital 14, focusing on the enemies of Hashem and the consequences of their actions, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and recognition of divine presence.
Tehillim
Peaceful Existence
This essay explores the connection between Tehillim and the Parsha Vayetzi, focusing on Yaakov Avinu's character as a personification of Shalom amidst challenges.
Tehillim
Mind Games
The essay explores the themes of intention versus action in the context of Yaakov and Esav, highlighting Dovid Hamelech's prayers in Tehillim and their connection to the Parsha.
Tehillim
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
Inner Flame
The essay explores the themes of praise and gratitude during Chanukah, emphasizing the connection between the inner flame of the soul and the public expressions of praise found in Tehillim.
Tehillim
Seeing Eyes
The essay discusses the concept of divine judgment and the necessity of public accountability for the wicked, drawing parallels between the future judgment and the experiences of the Jewish people during the Exodus.
Parsha
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
Bonding Experience
Kapital 91 emphasizes trust in Hashem for protection and comfort during difficult times, highlighting the connection between faith and divine support.
Tehillim
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
פרק ע׳׳ז - Bo: By Choice
The essay analyzes Kapital 77 of Tehillim, which Rashi reads as a lament over the decrees of Galus and which culminates in the memory of Yetzias Mitzrayim. It focuses on the phrase "Ga'alta B'Zroah Amecha Bnei Yaakov V'Yosef Selah", joining the Gemara in Sanhedrin (Yosef Kilkel), the Midrash that we were redeemed 'Betrunia' against the Midas HaDin because we resembled the Mitzriyim, and the Midrash in Bamidbar Rabbah linking the two Bakar of Shevet Gad's korban to Yaakov and Yosef. Using the Shem M'Shmuel's identification of Bakar with the middah of Havchana (discernment), the author concludes that the zechus of Yaakov and Yosef was the inherited ability to distinguish right from wrong, which preserved our identity as a Shoshana Bein HaChochim and made the Geulah possible.
Tehillim
Long Game
Kapital 106 reflects on the history of the Jewish nation and the kindness of Hashem, emphasizing the importance of faith and recognition of divine providence.
Tehillim
Sunny Days
The essay explores the connection between the sun and the Torah, emphasizing how both serve as sources of light and guidance for humanity. It discusses the importance of recognizing Hashem through creation and the role of Torah in achieving a deeper understanding of divine will.
Tehillim
פרק ט׳׳ו - Mishpatim: Zero Interest
Tehillim 15 answers Dovid Hamelech's question of who merits closeness to Hashem, culminating with avoiding Ribis and Shochad — which Chazal explain as refraining even from permitted cases (Ribis Akum, a Dayan recusing himself over past benefit), i.e. acting Lifnim Mishuras HaDin. Drawing on Maharal (via R' Chaim Friedlander) that Ribis is called an 'Ol' because charging interest is intuitive and natural, the essay explains why Chazal equate accepting the Ol Ribis with Kabalas Ol Malchus Shamayim and tie it to Yetzias Mitzrayim: denying Ribis is denying the purpose of the Exodus. One who trains himself to forgo even permitted profit and permitted self-interest conditions himself to place Hashem's will above his own, and is thus worthy of a Makom Kavod.
Tehillim
Small Spaces
The essay explores the themes of yearning for divine presence and guidance during exile, as expressed in Tehillim 80, while connecting it to the concept of the Keruvim and the Mishkan.
Tehillim
Purim
The essay explores the significance of the phrase 'U’BaBiza Lo Shalchu Es Yadam' in Megillat Esther, emphasizing the Jews' motivations during their victory over Haman and the implications for understanding Amalek.
Parsha
Ki Sisa - Ups and Downs
This essay explores the themes of justice and the consequences of the Chet HaEgel, emphasizing the shift from a divine status to a human one for Klal Yisroel.
Tehillim
Big Tent
This essay explores the themes of yearning for redemption and the transient nature of existence as expressed in Tehillim 61, connecting it to the Mishkan and the importance of how we are remembered.
Tehillim
Stay Close
This essay explores the themes of judgment and connection to God as expressed in Tehillim 50, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a relationship with Hashem through Korbanos.
Tehillim
Forever Grateful
This essay explores the connection between Mizmor L’Sodah and the Korban Todah, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and the unique relationship between the Jewish people and Hashem.
Parsha
Words of Faith
This essay explores the themes of faith and the power of speech as expressed in Tehillim 34, highlighting King David's experiences and teachings on reliance on God and the importance of guarding one's speech.
Tehillim
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
Heads Above The Rest
This essay explores how King David's expressions of praise in Tehillim reflect the connection between body and soul through mitzvot, particularly focusing on the significance of the mitzvot of 'Lo Sakifu' and 'Ba’al Sashchis'.
Tehillim
Merciful Brutality
This essay explores the complexities of Doeg HaAdomi's treachery against Dovid Hamelech and the implications of his actions in relation to the concept of Achzarius.
Tehillim
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
Separately Together
This essay explores the themes of unity and individual roles within the Jewish people as expressed in Tehillim 124, emphasizing the importance of each tribe's contribution to the collective identity and spiritual purpose.
Tehillim
Nasso - פרק י׳׳ב
This essay explores the unique nature of Tehillim Kapital 12, focusing on the themes of divine promises and the significance of mitzvos as a protective force against spiritual lethargy.
Tehillim
Seventy Secrets
This essay explores the beloved nature of Tehillim Kapital 25, focusing on themes of Teshuva and the significance of the Mitzvah of Mila as a hidden 'Sod' revealed through Avrohom Avinu's legacy.
Tehillim
Coordinated Cries
This essay explores the connection between the cries of King David in Tehillim and the complaints of Klal Yisroel in Parshas Shelach, emphasizing themes of reliance on Hashem and the consequences of rejecting divine guidance.
Tehillim
Smelling Sweet
This essay explores the significance of the Bnei Korach in Tehillim, particularly focusing on their unique contributions and the themes of Talmidei Chachamim and the Ketores.
Tehillim
Well Being
This essay explores Kapital 5 of Tehillim, emphasizing the personal and communal aspects of Dovid Hamelech's prayers for salvation from enemies, and the significance of the term 'Al HaNichilos'.
Tehillim
Set a Date
This essay explores the themes of King David's prayers in Tehillim, particularly his plea for divine mercy and the relationship between Hashem and Klal Yisroel regarding the establishment of the calendar and the Moadei Hashana.
Tehillim
A Fiery End
This essay explores the themes of Galus and the destruction of the Bais Hamikdash through the lens of Tehillim 74, emphasizing the significance of fire in both destruction and future redemption.
Tehillim
Shabbos Chazon – פרק קל׳׳ז
Kapital 137 reflects on the mourning of the Leviim during the Churban, emphasizing the importance of remembering Yerushalayim and the hope for redemption.
Tehillim
All Good
This essay explores the themes of Galus and Geulah as expressed in Tehillim Kapital 65, emphasizing the connection between prayer and the awaited redemption.
Tehillim
Pain Gain
This essay explores Tehillim 94, discussing its themes of suffering, redemption, and the connection to Shevet Gad. It emphasizes the idea that Torah and Eretz Yisroel are acquired through suffering, reflecting on the spiritual implications of this concept.
Tehillim
Find the Place
This essay explores the dedication of Dovid Hamelech in searching for the Makom HaMikdash, emphasizing the importance of seeking spiritual fulfillment over physical comfort.
Tehillim
Shoftim – פרק כ״ו: Completely Committed
The essay explores why Dovid Hamelech asks to be judged ("Shofteni Hashem") in Tehillim 26 when elsewhere he pleads not to be judged, contrasting Rashi's answer (he is comfortable being judged relative to Reshaim) with Sforno's (the perek is a plea not to be judged solely on the Batsheva episode). It then examines the meaning of "V'Ani B'Tumi Elech," linking it through two Yalkutim to "Tamim Tihiyeh Im Hashem Elokecha" in Parshas Shoftim and to "Toras Hashem Temima." Citing the Knaf Renanim's insight that the Torah, like water, is savored most by one who has been parched, the author explains that Dovid's very stumble enabled a deeper appreciation of Torah and thus greater closeness to Hashem. The lesson for Elul: rather than fixate on failings, use them to access the reviving power of Torah.
Tehillim
Self Righteous
This essay explores the themes of redemption and righteousness as expressed in Tehillim 85, connecting them to the teachings of the Parsha Ki Seitzei regarding justice and compassion.
Parsha
Self Righteous
The essay explores the themes of redemption and righteousness in Tehillim 85, emphasizing the importance of prayer and acts of kindness as reflections of divine justice.
Tehillim
Ki Savo – פרק קמ׳׳ו
This essay explores the themes of faith and redemption in Tehillim 146, emphasizing the importance of trusting in Hashem over humans, especially in times of suffering.
Tehillim
Ki Savo – פרק מ׳׳ו
This essay explores Tehillim Kapital 46, focusing on its themes of divine protection during times of turmoil and the importance of immediate repentance in the face of challenges.
Tehillim
Blast Away
The essay discusses the significance of Kapital 47 of Tehillim on Rosh Hashanah, emphasizing its connection to the themes of Malchus and the Shofar, and how it serves to awaken our inner Kedusha.
Tehillim
Blast Away
The essay explores the significance of Kapital 47 of Tehillim, recited before Tekias Shofar on Rosh Hashanah, emphasizing its themes of Malchus and the awakening of inner Kedusha through the Shofar.
Tehillim
Hear Him
The essay explores the connection between the Sukkah and the Bais Hamikdash, emphasizing the themes of prayer and divine protection during Sukkos.
Parsha
Flying High
The essay explores the significance of Simchas Torah, emphasizing the joy of celebrating the Torah and the deeper understanding of its value through the words of King David in Tehillim.
Parsha
Split Ends
Kapital 136, known as Hallel HaGadol, praises Hashem's eternal kindness. It reflects on the miracles of Krias Yam Suf and the significance of the twelve lanes created for Bnei Yisroel.
Tehillim
Watch Your Language
The essay explores the significance of Tehillim 114 in relation to Pesach, emphasizing the importance of language and identity in the context of Yetzias Mitzrayim.
Tehillim
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