Popular Shows by Rabbi Elimelech Kohn ZT"L: Page 4

301

The Gain of the Pain - The Incredible Gift of Yom Kippur

Sep 28, 2025

1:14:46

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on יום כיפור. Discussed: • The Chinuch writes that Rosh Hashanah & Yom Kippur sustain the world because it enables us to gain yearly atonement. Without this gift of yearly atonement, we would be overwhelmed by the burden of Aveiros and we would never be able to perform Teshuva. • Three concepts underlying the fast of Yom Kippur 1) לפום צערא אגרא, the more pain the higher the reward, more so by Yom Kippur where the pain itself is the Mitzvah. 2) The fasting of Yom Kippur counts as a form of Teshuvas Hamishkal. 3) How the act of fasting parallels a Korbon offering, where we offer the very blood & fats of our physical body. • Understanding the significance of the Ketores, which symbolizes Teshuva, and was the Kohen Gadol's main Avoda on Yom Kippur. Ketores takes a physical object and transforms it into ריח (smell), the sense most associated with the spiritual. It was performed only after entering the Kadoeh Hakoshim in front of the Aron Hakodesh, representing the unification of Teshuva and Torah.

302

Yom Kippur: Asking Forgiveness - The Consequences of Causing Others' Pain

Sep 28, 2025

58:57

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on יום כיפור. Discussed: • R' Chaim Shmulevitz highlights the need to resolve Bein Adam Lchaveiro issues before Yom Kippur, otherwise, one cannot obtain full atonement on the day of judgment. • R' Chaim Shmulevitz writes of the severe punishments that can result from sins of Bein Adam Lchaveiro, even when the person unintentionally and only indirectly harmed the other person (as illustrated in two stories brought in the Gemara). He explains that these terrible consequences are not necessarily a punishment, rather it's the natural cause and effect of hurting someone else, similar to putting one's hand in a fire! • Conversely, one should understand and appreciate the great and awesome merit when you are the instrument to someone else's growth and betterment. This idea is illustrated by the Kedusha of the Midbar & Har Moriah, and also by Yehuda who gained eternal reward because he inspired Reuven to do Teshuva.

303

The Uniqueness of Mitzvas Sukkos

Oct 3, 2025

38:22

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on סוכות. Discussed: The Bach teaches that there are three Mitzvos that have a special requirement to know the reason behind the Mitzvah in order to fully satisfy the obligation; Sukkos, Tefilin and Tzisis. Is there a reason why these Mitzvos are unique in this regard? The Sefer Haikram writes that there are three basic fundamental principles of belief, and they correspond to the three Yomim Tovim of Pesach, Shavous, and Sukkos.

304

The Fallen Sukkah of Dovid

Oct 3, 2025

59:01

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on סוכות. Discussed: The connection between Sukkos, Moshiach, and the end of days. The Vilna Gaon's approach for why we celebrate Sukkos in Tishrei and not in the month of Nissan. How the Shofar represents the power of Teshuva and why this confounds the Soton.

305

Parshas Toldos: Attaching the Physical to the Spiritual

Nov 17, 2025

1:12:49

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת תולדות. Discussed: R’ Chatzkel Abramsky compared the way the Ponevezher Rav went about establishing Yeshivas and communities post WW2 to the way Yitzchok restored the wells of Avraham that were destroyed by the Pelishtim. Similarly, the Ponevezher Rav and other Torah leaders were restoring the European wells of Torah after the Nazis attempted to destroy them. What is the significance of the prophecy that there will eventually be a relationship between Eisav's and Yaakov's descendants (R' Yehuda Hanasi & Antoninus) two thousand years later?

306

Parshas Vayishlach: The Centrality of Torah Study

Dec 1, 2025

1:18:05

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl On פרשת וישלח. Discussed: Why did Yaakov Avinu establish the tefillah of Maariv only after he left Eretz Yisrael?Understanding how each of the Avos represents the three times we went to Galus, and similarly, each corresponds to one of the Batei Mikdash.

307

Parshas Vayishlach: Understanding the Story of Dina and the Roles of Women

Dec 1, 2025

1:19:51

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl On פרשת וישלח. Discussed:Discussing why Dinah was associated with her mother Leah, implying similar character traits, and how her personality was particularly suited to reform Eisav. With this understanding, we can explain why Yaakov was punished for hiding Dinah from his brother, Eisav. The Akeidas Yitzchok writes that women have two purposes. This is why we find two names for Chava, one implying partnership with man in a spiritual journey and a separate name implying motherhood. Similarly, the Ksav Sofer writes that marriage has two functions (paralleling the Akeidas Yitzchok), and this is the concept of Zivug Rishon and Zivug Sheni. Each person has a pre-ordained spouse with whom to have children and raise a family (Zivug Rishon). Zivug Sheni on the other hand, is a marriage where the couple support each other, grow together, and pursue the same goals. One merits Zivug Sheni כפי מעשיו (according to his deeds).

308

Parshas Vayishlach: Having it All

Dec 1, 2025

1:25:42

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl On פרשת וישלח. Discussed: Rabeinu B'chaya explains the deeper meaning behind Yaakov's request when he asked Hashem to supply him with "bread to eat and clothes to wear". R' Moshe writes that Hashem provides according to the standards of each generation; the basics are readily available but the luxuries are harder to obtain. The Kli Yakir explains what it means that Hashem Bentched the Avos with כל, everything.

309

Hakaros Hatov - The Fundamental Middah of Yiddishkeit

Nov 26, 2025

1:24:09

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on the topic of הכרת הטוב. Discussed: A better understanding of the idea of Hakaros Hatov based on a seemingly arrogant statement of R' Zoma, brought down in the Gemara of Brachos.Lessons we can learn from Moshe Rabeinu regarding the extent of the obligation to recognize goodness. How Kibbud Av V'em embodies the dual nature of Hakaros Hatov which is the foundation for both Mitzvos בין אדם לחברו (between man and fellow) and Mitzvos בין אדם למקום (between man and Hashem).

310

Thanksgiving: A Jewish Perspective

Nov 26, 2025

46:37

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on the topic of הכרת הטוב. Discussed: Different Halachik opinions regarding a Jew celebrating Thanksgiving. The Alshich explains why Chazal say that the world was created on account of Mitzvas Bikkurim. What is so significant about this specific Mitzvah?Why is someone who is כפוי טוב (unappreciative) considered an Apikorus (denier of God)?

311

Parshas Vayetzei: The Mystery of Galus - גם זו לטובה

Nov 24, 2025

1:31:39

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת ויצא. Discussed: The Daas Zekanim and Baal Haturin note that Parshas Vayetzei is a Parsha סתומה, which symbolizes Yaakov's life in Galus and our long Galus these past 2,000 years. The Gra writes in a letter to his family, מחר תבכה מאשר היום תשחק (tomorrow you will cry at what today you laughed). This idea is illustrated by Leah and Rochel who both merited having the Shevatim unexpectedly, after experiencing hardship. R' Chaim Shmulevitz explains why the Tanna was known as Nachum Ish Gam Zu. What is the meaning of Gam Zu Letova, ALSO this is good?

312

Parshas Vayetzei: Thanking HaShem Through Recognition of Hashgacha

Nov 24, 2025

1:29:45

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת ויצא.Discussed: The Gemorah says that no one ever gave thanks to Hashem until Leah did so upon the birth of Yehuda. The Rif explains that even though there are numerous instances where the Avos and previous generations expressed appreciation to Hashem, Leah was the first to describe it as a “Hodah” (admission). Why is this significant and what is the message the Gemorah is trying to bring out with this? The Medrash explains how the descendants of Leah all followed in her path of giving “Hodah” and gives the examples of Yehudah, Dovid & Doniel. The example of Yehudah seems out of place since Yehudah was admitting his sin and seemingly has nothing to do with gratitude and Hakaros Hatov? The Rashba explains that whenever Jews and particularly Tzadikim are visibly being rewarded and their full glory is on display it is the ultimate cause of recognition of Hashem. We saw this in the days of Dovid and Shlomo, and for this precise reason, converts were not accepted into Klal Yisroel during these times.

313

Parshas Vayetzei: The Correct Approach to a Successful Marriage

Nov 23, 2025

1:16:09

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת ויצא. Discussed: Why Yaakov's love for Rochel felt like only a few moments when it was 14 years and usually fondness for something makes the wait feel longer? Why is Veahavta L'Reicha the essence of the whole Torah?

314

Parshas Toldot: Understanding Yitzchak's Approach to Tefilah and his Love for Eisav

Nov 17, 2025

1:16:48

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת תולדות. Discussed: The Chasam Sofer explains the ideal relationship between Eisav and Yaakov. This is represented by the relationship between R' Yehuda Hanasi and Antoninus. He further explains that people who support Torah are actually put on a higher pedestal than those who learn Torah. Discussion of Eisav's potential, and why Yitzchok’s persona of going against one's nature and natural order caused him to believe in Eisav and to ultimately be fooled by Eisav.

315

Parshas Toldos: Exchanging the Temporary for the Eternal

Nov 17, 2025

1:31:48

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת תולדות. Discussed: The Steipler explains why Eisav was upset and accused Yaakov of tricking him into selling the בכורה (firstborn rights), in contrast to the beginning of the Parsha when Eisav seemed more than happy to sell it. Rabeinu B'chaya explains what Yaakov exchanged and sold to Eisav when he acquired the birthright. Why did Eisav's clothing smell like Gan Eden?

316

Sukkos Part 2: The Joy of the Baal Teshuva

Oct 3, 2025

1:36:03

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on סוכות. We continue the theme of the last Shiur. Discussed: Why do we pray in Avinu Malkeinu to inscribe us in the Book of Merit; either we are meritorious already or not? R' Mattisyahu Solomon asks why is Sukkos defined as Zman Simchaseinu (time of our joy), what is the source of this joy?

317

Parshas Chayei Sarah: Sarah Preserved Herself in Every Situation

Nov 9, 2025

1:15:53

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת חיי שרה. Discussed: What is the connection between Sarah and Esther? Chazal say that Esther merited to rule 127 countries because Sarah lived 127 years. Why does the Gemara say Sarah’s beauty was like a 7 yr old and her innocence was like a 20 yr old - shouldn’t it be the other way around?How two seemingly contradictory compliments regarding Sarah’s beauty and her prophecy are really in sync with each other.

318

Parshas Vayeira: Understanding When to Interpret the Torah Literally and When Figuratively

Nov 2, 2025

1:19:30

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת וירא.Discussed: What is the message we should learn that one should attend to guests before the Shechina?The Rambam’s parameters for when we say the Torah is speaking figuratively as opposed to literally.The Abarbenal’s explanation of how to reconcile the Rambam given all the questions the Ramban asks.

319

Parshas Vayeira: Breaking From the Past - Lot Part 2

Nov 2, 2025

1:01:57

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת וירא. We continue the discussion of last week regarding Lot.Discussed:Why does the Torah emphasize that Avrohom Avinu went back to the same hotels on his return journey from Mitzrayim?Why are some people able to achieve greatness, while others, who seemingly start out with lots of potential, stall and never advance?

320

Parshas Lech Lecha: Bris Milah - Perfect from the Start

Oct 26, 2025

52:11

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת לך לך.Discussed:Understanding the argument between Yitzchok and Yishmael regarding the ideal way to perform Mitzvas Bris Milah. Is it better to perform the Mitzvah as an intelligent thirteen-year-old or an innocent baby?Understanding the story of אחר (R' Elisha Ben Avuya), a great sage who went off the Derech. The Gemara cites the Pasuk טוב אחרית דבר מראשיתו, ascribing the father's wrong Kavanah during the Bris, which affected אחר later in life.

321

Parshas Lech Lecha: Magen Avraham - Discovering HaShem

Oct 26, 2025

1:17:06

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת לך לך. Discussed: The difference in child rearing between someone observant by rote versus someone who chose it through their own conviction. Why do we list the Avos in ascending order? Furthermore, why do we delineate them separately at the beginning of the first Bracha of Shmonei Esrei and then conclude only with Avroham? R’ Shimon Shkup’s incredible prediction, that right before Moshiach we will see an abundance of Balei Teshuva.

322

Parshas Lech Lecha: The Rise and Fall of Lot - Part 1

Oct 26, 2025

1:20:07

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת לך לך. Discussed:What type of journey was Avrohom Avinu commanded to take? Did he go altruistically or to receive reward? How to understand Lot? Was he a Tzadik, who attached himself to Avrohom, following him through thick and thin, or a Rasha who unhesitatingly abandoned Avrohom and embraced Sodom?

323

Parshas Noach: The Macro Effect of Our Actions

Oct 21, 2025

1:23:01

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת נח. Discussed: What is the significance of the animals becoming deviant? How can man affect the animal kingdom and why would animals be punished for their moral failings if they only operate on instinct? The Beis Halevi explains why the Tzadik gets the Rasha's portion of his merits and vice versa. What is the difference between Din and Cheshbon?

324

Parshas Noach: Surviving in an Ark versus Leading the Ship: The Importance of Reaching Out - Part B

Oct 21, 2025

1:18:43

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת נח.

325

Parshas Noach: The Taivah and The Mishkan

Oct 21, 2025

1:02:39

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת נח. Discussed: What is the connection between the Mitzvah to build the Taivah and the Mitzvah to build the Mishkan, and how the function of Yeshivos have evolved over the years from being just a Mishkon to serving a dual purpose of a Taivah & a Mishkan.Rabbi Chaim Dov Keller Zt”l had a Vort, that you can’t be a Bar Mitzva without being a Ben Torah. R’ Elya Meir Bloch explains that the rainbow is the symbol that Hashem won’t destroy the world because just as a single ray of light pushes away all the darkness so too Hashem promised that as long as there is even just one ray of light (a Noach) he likewise won’t destroy the world.

326

Sukkos Part 1: Why in Tishrei?

Oct 4, 2025

1:36:10

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on סוכות. Discussed: The Vilna Gaon's answer to the famous question; why is Sukkos celebrated in Tishrei? A second Vilna Gaon, where he explains the Mishna that compares rain on Sukkos to a servant who has water poured back in his face by his master. A discussion on the importance of time.

Popular Shows by Rabbi Elimelech Kohn ZT"L Rabbi Elimelech Kohn ZT"L