Popular Shows by Meaningful Ideas on the Parsha

1

Vayeishev - Not The Time For Tranquility

Dec 12, 2025

9:44

Chazal say that Yaakov wanted to sit in tranquility at this point, after dealing with Eisav, Lavan, Shechem. Hashem said Tzadikim have tranquility in the next world, they should ask for it in this world? Is there something wrong with having a tranquil life? Wouldn't Yaakov only want this for Torah and Ruchniyus, what would be wrong with this desire? Some approaches to understanding a difficult Chazal .Have a good Shabbos

2

Behaaloscha - Shavings of the Leviim

Jun 9, 2023

9:57

The Torah tells us about 3 who had a Mitzvah to shave their hair, one being the Leviim at their inauguration. Why did they shave their hair and what can it teach us about confidence? Hope you enjoy. Have a good Shabbos.

3

Naso - Sheep of Integrity

Jun 2, 2023

9:32

The Inaugural Karbanos of the Nesiim all came with tremendous symbolism unique to their shevet. Yissacher brought a sheep to represent the integrity of Yaakov with the sheep of Lavan. Why is that what's chosen as the aspect of Yaakov to tap into here? Hope you have a great Shabbos.

4

Shelach - The Dangers of Lashon Hara

Jun 15, 2023

9:35

Chazal tell us the Meraglim, and that whole generation, were killed out because they spoke Lashon Hara about Eretz Yisrael. Why was it the Aveirah of Lashon Hara, as opposed to the lack of Emunah and the Chillul Hashem? Some thoughts about Lashon Hara and the humility we need to develop to overcome it. May you have a wonderful Shabbos.

5

Korach - When Great Men Fall

Jun 22, 2023

9:12

Chazal tell us that Korach was a great person, and are surprised he succumbed to this Nisayon. They also tell us that some of our other famous great ancestors were involved in this movement. Some ideas about how the Yetzer Hara can pose a risk to even the greatest of people, and how to judge such situations. Have a good Shabbos.

6

Chukas Balak - Rewards for a Mitzvah

Jun 28, 2023

9:46

Chiddushim in the rewards Og and Balak recieved for their actions. A famous Chofetz Chaim shmuess about Og and my own shmuess about Balak. Never discount the value of a Mitzvah. (Although it's a chiddush Balak counts as a mitzvah, but seems to me this is so.) Have a great Shabbos

7

Pinchas - Humility and Bnos Tzelafchad

Jul 6, 2023

8:54

The Torah tells us Moshe brought the claims of the Bnos Tzelafchad before Hashem. Why didn't he answer the question himself? Two approaches of the Midrash in the importance of humility. Hope you enjoy. Have a good Shabbos

8

Masai - Emunah From Our Travels

Jul 13, 2023

9:16

The Ramban says the Torah lists the 42 places the Jews encamped in the worldness so we can see where they are to increase our Emunah. Don't we believe the Chumash that they lived on miracles, what does looking at a map add? An idea from the Ohr Yechezkel about making our Emunah real and being able to feel Hashem in our lives. Have a Good Shabbos

9

Tisha B'av - Understanding Sinas Chinam - Double Episode

Jul 19, 2023

18:47

The 2nd Mikdash was destroyed because of Sinas Chinam. What causes us to hate others, and how can we work on it? What are the parameters of Sinas Chinam, who are we obligated to forgive? Why is the Bar Kamtza story more an example of Sinas Chinam and concealed hatred then any of the other stories of cruelty and machlokes in that time? One of the most thought out shiurim I have prepared so far. It was a lot of material, so I split it into two clips. I think it's essential to think about, and I hope you find it meaningful. Thanks to all the people who helped with fleshing out this material, including Rabbi Yehuda Shmuelevitz, Rabbi Natan Lindell, Maor, Daniel, Dovid Tzvi, and the Kamin Kiddush Chaburah. Hope you have a meaningful fast. May we be zoche to the Binyan Hamikdash with the Bias Goel Tzedek Bimheirah Biyameinu Amen. This Episode is dedicated as a zechus for a Refuah Shelaimah for Yehuda Leib ben Rachel Chana

10

Devarim - Dangers of Negativity

Jul 20, 2023

7:34

How could Bnei Yisrael have said a language that being taken to E"Y was B'Sinas Hashem? Ideas from Rabbeinu Yonah on the dangers of Narganus/negativity.

11

Vaeschanan - Paths To Loving Hashem

Jul 30, 2023

9:28

In Kriyas Shema we have the mitzvah to love Hashem. Exploring two approaches in the Rambam to how we can come to have more Ahavas Hashem, one based on Kriyas Shema.

12

Eikev - Loving The Ger

Aug 4, 2023

9:26

The Torah warns in 36 places that we must treat a ger with proper sensitivity. Here the Torah tells us a special Mitzvah to love a Ger. There are beautiful lessons in sensitivity and perspective in how the Rambam explains it, may we be zoche to able to learn from them. Thanks for being a listener. Have a good Shabbos

13

Re'eh - Clinging to Hashem in Our Minds

Aug 10, 2023

8:48

The Torah tells us a Mitzvah to cling to Hashem in our minds. How can we develop the mindfulness to do that? Some ideas based on the Chayei Adam and others, that have the ability to enrich our lives. Wishing you a good Shabbos

14

Shoftim - The Essence of Chinuch

Aug 16, 2023

9:26

Rashi says the language of חנוכת הבית found in the parsha is the same language as חנוך לנער. You don't educate a house, what does chinuch actually mean? Some ideas and perspectives based on the Piaseczna Rebbe's elaboration of Rashi's idea in his Chovas Hatalmidim. Have a great Shabbos

15

Ki Seitzei - Choosing Our Challenges

Aug 24, 2023

9:10

In the topic of fencing in a roof, Rabbeinu Bechayai teaches that we all signed up for our life situations during the original 6 days of creation. Explore some philosophical and practical applications of this idea. Have a good Shabbos.

16

Rabbi Luban - The Purpose of a Shmuess

Aug 25, 2023

9:40

Wanted to share with you a special clip someone sent me from my Rebbe Rav Binyamin Luban Shlita. He really articulates the approach which is one of the foundations for what I am trying to do on the podcast. His ideas of how to show people how the Torah speaks directly to them in a meaningful way have formed the foundation of what I do here, even though I rarely do Chofetz Chaim style shmuessim. Hope you enjoy this special episode.

17

Ki Savo - Upholding Every Single One

Aug 31, 2023

8:14

The Jewish People accepted a curse on one who doesn't uphold the words of the Torah. Rabbeinu Yonah and Ramban explain it means one who doesn't accept all the Mitzvos of the Torah and chooses to ignore one. Who does that include, and how do we approach it?

18

Nitzavim - Feeling Healthy Shame For Our Aveiros

Sep 7, 2023

9:43

Chazal teach us that Klal Yisrael needed a new Bris with Hashem, due to their shame from the Chet HaEgel. How can we approach shame from our Aveiros in a healthy way, as opposed to an unhealthy way? Based on ideas in the Chiddushei HaLev and the book From Boys to Men Have a Good Shabbos and a Kesivah Vachasimah Tovah

19

Rosh Hashana - Bringing Honor to the King

Sep 13, 2023

7:31

Rosh Hashana is the first of the Aseres Yamei Teshuva, yet we speak about Hashem's Malchus, not about our actions. How can we use the focus on Malchus to transform us and help us do Teshuva? As we come to near the end of 3 years of these shiurim, want to thank you for being a listener who helps keep them going strong. Have a K'sivah V'chasimah Tovah and a Gut G'bentched Yor.

20

Shabbos Shuva - Finding Our Weak Spots

Sep 20, 2023

9:04

It's a time for personal change, but Chazal tell us a person has a hard time seeing his own flaws. Some suggestions for gaining greater insight. Based on ideas from Mishlei, Rav Yisrael Salanter, the Baal Shem Tov, and Rav Mendel Kaplan. Gmar Chasimah Tovah

21

Sukkos - Binding Ourselves Together

Sep 27, 2023

9:07

Chazal tell us that the 4 species we take on Sukkos represent 4 different types of Jews. Who is part of that group and is worthy of being bound together, and who is not? Have a Chag Kasher V'Sameach

22

V'zos HaBracha and Sof Moadim - Appreciating the Love for Us

Oct 4, 2023

6:37

The Ohr Hachaim points out the greatness of Moshe Rabbeinu in blessing us before his death, even though we helped cause it to happen at this time. We can extend that to appreciate the Love Hashem has for us, as manifested in Hoshana Rabah and Shemini Atzeres. Thanks again as we come to an end of season 3, appreciate your being a listener. Have a Chag Kasher V'sameach.

23

Bereishis - Punishing the Inciters

Oct 11, 2023

9:36

The snake was not given a chance to defend it self, because it had incited others to the worst evils. Thoughts on how the Torah views such things, in light of the situation in Eretz Yisrael. May Hashem send us Besuros Tovos. Have a good Shabbos.

24

Noach - Lessons in Chesed From the Teivah

Oct 18, 2023

9:38

In these times my Rabbeim are advising that we increase in our Achdus and Chesed as a Zechus for Acheinu Bnei Yisrael. Perspectives on Chesed from the Alter of Slabodka, and lessons to learn from Noach's Chesed in the Teivah. See the greatness of devotion to Chesed, Chazal even tell us lessons Avraham Avinu took from Noach's behavior in the Teivah. May it inspire us to follow in their ways. Besuros Tovos and a meaningful Shabbos

25

Lech Lecha - Learning How To Give

Oct 25, 2023

9:43

The Alter of Slobodka said one cannot be a Baal Chesed without serving Hashem, and one cannot serve Hashem without being a Baal Chesed. How does our relationship with Hashem help us be a bigger Baal Chesed? How can we learn how to do more? May we find more ways to bring zechusim for the sake of Acheinu Bnei Yisrael. Have a Good Shabbos

26

Lech Lecha - Learning How To Give

Oct 25, 2023

9:43

The Alter of Slobodka said one cannot be a Baal Chesed without serving Hashem, and one cannot serve Hashem without being a Baal Chesed. How does our relationship with Hashem help us be a bigger Baal Chesed? How can we learn how to do more? May we find more ways to bring zechusim for the sake of Acheinu Bnei Yisrael. Have a Good Shabbos

27

Vayeira - Marching Past Our Doubts

Nov 1, 2023

9:39

When Avraham went to do the Akeidah, the Yetzer Hara tried to convince him he'd misunderstood what Hashem wanted. To some of the challenges, Avraham and Yitzchak said Al Minas Kein, we will do it regardless. Why did they respond that way, instead of defending their position? The Rosh Yeshiva's famous Shmuess in how to best fight those nagging doubts. Have a wonderful Shabbos

28

Chayei Sarah - Handling Insulting Behavior

Nov 8, 2023

9:59

Chazal warn us not to daven to Hashem to punish our fellow Jews, even if they wrong us. They praise one who is able to be Ma'avor Al Midosov and take things in stride. Some insights from the Chofetz Chaim and the Tomer Devorah on how we can achieve such heights. May this Dvar Torah be a Zechus for Erez ben Hadas (Kalderon) to be rescued, together with the other hostages in Gaza. You can find a list of the names for Tehillim at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Q6IU209js8fYUrFRoYBK3rKa9WLpuFjl/view and pictures of them at https://www.kidnappedfromisrael.com Have a wonderful Shabbos

29

Chayei Sarah - Handling Insulting Behavior

Nov 9, 2023

9:59

Chazal warn us not to daven to Hashem to punish our fellow Jews, even if they wrong us. They praise one who is able to be Ma'avor Al Midosov and take things in stride. Some insights from the Chofetz Chaim and the Tomer Devorah on how we can achieve such heights. May this Dvar Torah be a Zechus for Erez ben Hadas (Kalderon) to be rescued, together with the other hostages in Gaza. You can find a list of the names for Tehillim at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Q6IU209js8fYUrFRoYBK3rKa9WLpuFjl/view and pictures of them at https://www.kidnappedfromisrael.com Have a wonderful Shabbos

30

Toldos - Those Who Bless Us & Those Who Curse Us

Nov 16, 2023

9:24

Yitzchak blessed Yaakov, those who curse us will be cursed, and those who bless us will be blessed. What the Yerushalmi teaches about how we should react to the way they treat us, and what the Medrash teaches about the difficult times in our history.

31

Vayeitzei - Like The Dust Of The Earth

Nov 23, 2023

9:21

Yaakov was given a Beracha to be like the dust of the earth. The Medrash says a pshat it's a Beracha relating to the anti-semitism we will face in Galus. Some Chizuk in the face of the challenges we are facing today.

32

Vayishlach - Seeing The Captors For Who They Are

Nov 30, 2023

9:57

The Torah tells us of all the kindness Yaakov provided for the city of Shechem, and how they then abducted and abused Dinah. Some thoughts on those who only seek to harm us, and how to approach them. May this Dvar Torah be a zechus for Erez and Sohar Kalderon, and Yagil and Or Yaakov, to have a full Refuah Shelaima, together with the other released hostages. Have a good Shabbos

33

Vayeishev & Chanukah - The Refuah Before The Makkah

Dec 8, 2023

9:20

Chazal tell us Hashem caused Yehuda to give birth to the ancestor ofMashiach before they even went down to Mitzrayim. Why was that neccessary at this time? Some insights into the light of Hashgacha Pratis Hashem provides even in times of darkness. Have a good Shabbos and a Freilichen Chanukah.

34

Miketz - Limiting The Suffering of Tzaddikim

Dec 15, 2023

9:53

Chazal tell us that Hashem often prevents Tzaddikim from suffering for more than 3 days. Fascinating applications Chazal make to Yosef's brothers going to jail, Yonah, Matan Torah, and the Akeidah. May this week's Dvar Torah be a zechus for a Refuah Shelaimah for Eitan ben Batsheva Yahalomi, among the rest of the Shevuyim. Have a good Shabbos

35

Vayigash - When We Fight Back & When We Don't

Dec 21, 2023

9:29

At the end of Parshas Miketz, the brothers are submissive with Yosef and prepared to stay as his slaves. However, at the beginning of Vayigash, Yehuda is threatening Yosef with war and destruction if he tries to keep Binyamin. What caused the change in approach? An approach based on the Ohr Hachaim, Lev Eliyahu, and the Kovetz Hearos to the topic of when we fight back, and when we don't. May this dvar torah be a zechus for refuah for Erez ben Hadas and Eitan ben Batsheva among the other hostages, and for refuah for Chaim Dov ben Minah Rachel and Avraham Nechemia ben Braynah among the rest of the Cholei Yisrael. Have a good Shabbos.

36

Vayechi - Sharing and Transferring Mitzvos

Dec 27, 2023

9:41

Yaakov Avinu's brachos to Yissachar and Zevulun reference the partnership they have between them. Is Yissachar giving up a portion of his learning, can one buy another's zechusim? What about selling one's aveiros? Some insights into how one can gain a share inthe zechusim of another, and the greatness of supporting Torah. Hope you enjoy. Feel free to reach out for the Marei Mekomos. Have a good Shabbos

37

Shemos - Bearing the Burden With Others

Jan 4, 2024

10:19

In our introduction to Moshe Rabeinu, basically all the Torah tells us about the first 80 years of his life is that he was Noseh B'ol with others. Why was this Middah his biggest zechus to become the leader of the Jewish people? How does it differ from empathy and kindness? A little longer this week as I added a small message in honor of the Mashgiach Rav Matisyahu Salomon Zt"l, whose levaya was today. May we hear Besuros Tovos, and may the Mashgiach be a Meilitz Yosher for us all. Have a good Shabbos

38

Va'eira - The Destructive Nature of Ingratitude

Jan 11, 2024

8:43

Chazal say Pharaoh worked to ignore all the good Yosef had done for him, and it led to his denying Hashem. How does being a Kafui Tov lead to one being a Kofer? Can succumbing to the Yetzer Hara really take us down in such a dangerous downard spiral? Some ideas in the self-destructive nature of middas raos.

39

Bo - Those Who Didn't Want To Leave

Jan 18, 2024

8:38

Chazal tell us that only one-fifth of the Jewish people left Mitzrayim, the other four-fifths perished during Makkas Choshech. Why did they deserve to die, and what can we learn from the story? Have a good Shabbos

40

Beshalach - The Ultimate Caretaker

Jan 26, 2024

8:11

Normally servants take care of their master, but Hashem took us to be His servants and then took care us. Onkeles converted soldiers sent to abduct him by giving over this concept. How can we connect with it? Have a good Shabbos

41

Yisro - Giving Thanks Beyond Praise

Jan 31, 2024

9:37

Chazal say Yisro was the first one to thank Hashem for saving us from the Mitzriyim. Didn't they sing Shirah, why wasn't that good enough? An idea in the Importance of thanking Hashem for everything He does for us. Have a wonderful Shabbos

42

Mishpatim - Wisdom in Mishpatei Hezek

Feb 9, 2024

7:15

Someone broke into a car, found a passed out child in the back and saved their life. Someone else crashed into a car, caused the other party to miss their flight, which ended up crashing into the sea. Is the Mazik obligated to pay in those cases, or does the good result patur him? Some interesting examples in the Torah's wisdom in Dinei Mishpat. Have a good Shabbos

43

Terumah - Connecting to the Cedar Trees

Feb 16, 2024

9:19

Chazal tell us the cedar trees they used to build the Mishkan were originally planted by Avraham Avinu, and transplanted to Mitzrayim by Yaakov Avinu. Why did we need wood that connected us to the Avos, and what can it teach us about hoping for the Geulah? Have a good Shabbos

44

Tetzaveh - The Missing Kaparah

Feb 22, 2024

8:48

Chazal tell us the bigdei kehuna provided Kaparah for the Aveiros of the Jewish people. Was this a kaparah for the community, or was it a kaparah for every individual's sins? Some insights on what we lost with the cessation of the Avodah. Have a good Shabbos

45

Ki Sisah - The Double Edged Sword of Wealth

Feb 28, 2024

9:24

Chazal teach us that Moshe and the Avos were blessed with tremendous wealth. Yet they also teach us about the dangers of excess wealth, and how it helped lead to the downfall of Korach and Haman, and helped bring about the Chet Haegel. Is wealth a Bracha or a danger? Some perspectives on the double edged sword of money. Have a good Shabbos.

46

Vayakhel - The Hashraas HaShechina of Shabbos

Mar 6, 2024

8:42

Moshe assembled all the people and taught them about Shabbos and about donating to and building the Mishkan. Why were the instructions about the Mishkan preceded by instructing us about Shabbos? What is the connection between the relationship we have with Hashem through Shabbos, and the relationship we have through the Mishkan? Have a wonderful Shabbos

47

Rabbi Baruch Gore - Vayakhel - The Chashivus of Being Careful with Hotzaah

Mar 7, 2024

9:32

It's an honor to share with you a special guest lecture by my good friend Rabbi Baruch Gore. Chazal learn the Issur to carry on Shabbos from this weeks parsha, so it's an appropriate week to share an idea on the topic. Rabbi Gore is the founder of the National Eruv Initiative and works to improve the quality of Eruvin across the country. You can learn more about his work at www.Eruvinitiative.org as well as listen to clips from the OU Eruv Conference. Have a good Shabbos.

48

Pekudei - Building It To Last

Mar 14, 2024

9:09

The Seforno explores four components involved in the construction of the Mishkan that ensured it would last eternally. Some thoughts on the importance if doing things right, and how it affects the holiness and long term impact of the mitzvos we do. Have a good Shabbos

49

Purim - Salvation In Times of Hester

Mar 21, 2024

13:35

What did Purim teach us about the way Hashem runs the world in times of concealment? How did Haman convince all the nations to agree to kill the Jews? Why did Purim lead to a new reacceptance of the Torah? Understanding the Chiddush of Purim, and why this salvation was worthy of a new Holiday. A Freilichen Purim

50

Vayikra - The Yesod of Karbanos

Mar 22, 2024

7:16

Why do we bring Karbanos, and what we can learn from them? Why are they one of the three pillars of the world, what can they teach us? Rabbeinu Bechayai and the Chinuch connect it to Kaparah and how it can bring us to Teshuva. The Rosh connects it to keeping us in a good place emotionally and not losing hope.

51

Tzav - Sensitivity To Another's Shame

Mar 27, 2024

8:35

The Torah says the Chatas is shechted in the same place as the Olah. Chazal explain it's to protect the sinner, that it shouldn't be clear to all that he is bringing a Chatas. Some lessons in how sensitive we have to be about potentially embarrassing others. Have a good Shabbos.

52

Shemini - It's Because of Me

Apr 3, 2024

9:59

When they inaugurated the Mishkan and did the Avodah on the eighth day, initially the Shechina did not descend upon the Mishkan. Rashi says Aharon Hakohen immediately put the blame upon himself, that Hashem must be upset with Him. Some lessons in taking ownership for what goes on in the world. Have a good Shabbos

53

Tazria - The Metzora's Desperate Plea

Apr 10, 2024

7:57

Chazal say one of the reasons the Metzora goes around calling out that he is Tamei, is so others should daven for him. The Chofetz Chaim explores how this is not simply because he needs help healing, but also because it helps heal him from what causes him to speak Lashon Hara. Some thoughts on how we can build bridges with each other and thereby guard our speech. Have a good Shabbos

54

Tazria - The Metzora's Desperate Plea

Apr 11, 2024

7:57

Chazal say one of the reasons the Metzora goes around calling out that he is Tamei, is so others should daven for him. The Chofetz Chaim explores how this is not simply because he needs help healing, but also because it helps heal him from what causes him to speak Lashon Hara. Some thoughts on how we can build bridges with each other and thereby guard our speech. Have a good Shabbos

55

Pesach and Metzorah - Feeling the Hashgacha

Apr 16, 2024

8:46

The Seder is one of the foundational elements of building and conveying our Emunah. The more we feel the world is custom made for us, and that what Hashem does to us is personally crafted, the more we can give over that approach to Yetzias Mitzrayim and to our current world. Some perspectives we learn from Tzaraas and the challenges we face in life. Have a Chag Kasher V'Sameach.

56

Shevii Shel Pesach - Every Aspect Counts

Apr 26, 2024

6:46

On Shevii Shel Pesach we focus on Kriyas Yam Suf, which is mainly about the justice brought upon the Mitzriyiim. This shiur focuses on their appreciation of the individuality of the judgement on different Mitrzriyiim, according to their levels, and what teaches us about Hashem's Hasgacha. Nothing is insignificant before Hashem. Have a Chag Kasher Vsameach

57

Achrei Mos - Not To Critique To The Master

May 2, 2024

9:25

The Kohen Gadol only wears white in the Kodesh Kedoshim and not gold, so as not to invoke the memory of the Chet Haegel. So why does he wear gold during the rest of the Yom Kippur service? Differences in how to speak to our fellow Jews, and how we speak about them before Hakadosh Baruch Hu. Have a good Shabbos

58

Kedoshim - Standing in Honor of the Elder

May 9, 2024

6:46

The Torah gives us a Mitzvah to honor the elder and the Chacham. Exploring some of the Halachos and ideas in the Mitzvah. Have a good Shabbos

59

Emor- To Bring Glory To His Name

May 15, 2024

9:41

Making a Kiddush Hashem and avoiding Chillul Hashem are from the most fundamental Mitzvos we have. The more we represent Hashem and His Torah, as individuals and as a people, the greater our responsibility in this area. Discussion about our responsibilities and our potential for greatness in this area. Have a Wonderful Shabbos.

60

Behar - Not Yours To Make a Permanent Sale

May 23, 2024

8:10

The Torah tells us property sold in EY goes back at Yovel. Focusing on this idea in the Parsha, that the land is not ours to permanently sell, we are justs guests there. Have a good Shabbos.

61

Lag BaOmer - The Aveilus of Sefirah and the Joy of Lag BaOmer

May 23, 2024

5:45

An explanation from Rav Welcher why they were suddenly misakein an aveilus for the talmidim of Rabbi Akiva a thousand years after their deaths. An approach that it was to give us chizuk in galus. Have a good Shabbos

62

Bechukosai - Connecting To The Torah In Yerushalayim

May 30, 2024

6:54

Bechukosai is a Parsha where we talk about the importance of working in Torah and developing a life of connection with the Torah. A surprising connection the Sefer HaChinuch makes to Maasar Behaimah, and what we hope to gain from Yerushalayim. Have a good Shabbos

63

Bamidbar - Counting Us With Pride

Jun 6, 2024

7:46

The Torah counts us and lists our numbers in the Parsha multiple times. Chazal that explain Hashem treasures us and repeatedly counts us with pride. Can we feel Hashem is proud of us, and can that help us in our Avodas Hashem? Have a good Shabbos

64

Shavuos - Growth Through Torah - A Tribute To Rabbi Dr Abba Goldman Zt"l

Jun 11, 2024

10:51

Shavuos is a day when we try to grow in Torah, and appreciate how it can transform out lives. A small tribute to my Rebbe Zt"l who personified this, and two unique insights I gained from him about the Torah and the human mind. Have a Chag Kasher V'sameach

65

Naso - The Individuality of the 12 Nesiim

Jun 14, 2024

4:47

Why does the Torah repeat the offerings of the 12 Nesiim at length, if it seems to be repetition of the same Karbanos? An approach of Rav Henoch Leibowitz Zt'l, to how and why they found a way to express the individuality and uniqueness of each Shevet, while at the same time allowing for uniformity among all the Shevatim. Have a good Shabbos

66

Behaaloscha - Troubles In The Desert

Jun 20, 2024

9:54

We find 3 challenges the Jewish people experience in their march toward EY in this weeks parsha. The approach of Rav Simcha Zissel Broide in understanding the subtle nature of the stories and the critiques. Have a wonderful Shabbos

67

Shelach - Trusting In Hashem To Help

Jun 28, 2024

9:32

The error of the Meraglim can in part be attributed to a lack in Bitachon that Hashem would help them conquer Eretz Yisrael. Should we be worried that our flaws will prevent Hashem from helping us at times? Does Bitachon dictate being an optimist who expects the best, or just that we learn to roll with the punches knowing He is in charge? Built upon ideas from the Sum Derech and Sefer HaBoteach. Have a wonderful Shabbos

68

Korach - Trying To Heal Machlokes

Jul 4, 2024

8:51

Chazal learn the extent of our obligation to heal machlokes from the way Moshe pursued peace with Dathan and Aviram. Lessons from Moshe's perseverance, and from the positive outcomes it produced. Have a good Shabbos

69

Chukas - The Special Friday of Chukas

Jul 11, 2024

7:49

This Friday of Parshas Chukas has been proclaimed as a day of Tefilah for the Gezairah against Torah, and historically it has been a day of fasting for the 24 cartloads of Sefarim burned in France. An explanation from Rav Simcha Zissel Broide why we have a special significance tied to the Friday of this week, and how the day of a Parsha has a root in the Torah that plays out in the world.

70

Balak - The Beautiful Tents of Yaakov

Jul 18, 2024

7:39

Balak was inspired by the Tznius of the tents of Yisrael, they caused him to say Ma Tovu. How could someone as brazenly immoral as Bilaam be impressed by Tznius? Have a good Shabbos

71

Pinchas - Looking At The Root Of The Matter

Jul 25, 2024

9:48

Chazal tells us people were critical of Pinchas for killing the Nasi of Shevet Shimon for his immoral behavior. With all the miracles that took place, how could they have been critical of Pinchas? An approach from Rav Yechezkel Levenstein on the importance of analyzing and working on our Middos. Have a good Shabbos

72

Shoftim - Respecting Dinei DiRabanan

Aug 29, 2025

9:50

Hi, The Torah instructs us to keep the words of the Chachamim and not deviate from their words, neither to the right nor to the left. To what extent doMitzvos DiRabanan have a status similar to a DiOraysa, that we can say a Bracha of Vtzivanu on them? In what sense are they considered even more stringent than the Dinei DiOraysa? Have a good Shabbos

73

Shemini - Powerful In It's Element

Apr 25, 2025

7:14

Shemini talks about the different Kosher and Unkosher animals. Rabbi Akiva pointed out the wonders of creation, that there are creatures that have so much power in one domain, yet would die very quickly if they switch environments. Some lessons we can learn from this in our own lives. Have a wonderful Shabbos

74

Metzora - Care That We Clean The House

May 1, 2025

8:29

When there is Tzaraas upon a house, the Torah says one should clean out all their possessions before the Kohen inspects it. Chazal explain this is to protect the owner, out of sensitivity for him losing unkasherable vessels when they become Tamei. Why does the Torah show such sensitivity to one who deserves a public punishment, and what can we learn from it? Have a good Shabbos

75

Emor - Lessons in Appreciation From The Omer

May 16, 2025

9:33

As we approach Lag Baomer it's a good time to focus on the Korban Omer. Why was the Korban Omer brought and why was the Chodosh crop forbidden until the Korban Omer was brought? What can we learn from it about the importance of Hakaras Hatov? Have a good Shabbos

76

Behar - Being Mechazek Others

May 22, 2025

9:51

The highest form of giving in Halacha is to help hold someone up before they fall down. Is this only about preventing someone from falling financially, or even from falling apart emotionally? Some ideas based on the Rambam and Chofetz Chaim on being Mechazek those in need. Have a good Shabbos

77

Bamidbar & Shavuos - A Precious Opportunity

May 29, 2025

9:40

Bamidbar begins with the counting of the Bnei Yisrael, which the seforim teach shows the preciousness of our people as a whole, and of every individual as well. Matan Torah is really what gave us that special distinction and made us unique. May Hashem help us appreciate who we are and help us find ways to tap into His precious gift on the Yom Tov of Shavuos. Have a great Shabbos and a wonderful and meaningful Shavuos.

78

Naso - Viduy and Its Power

Jun 6, 2025

9:00

The Rambam finds the source for the Mitzvah of Viduy in this week's Parsha. Why is Viduy taught from the area of admitting to swearing falsely on a stolen item, and why is it such an essential part of Teshuva? Have a good Shabbos

79

Behaalascho - Miriam's Journey

Jun 12, 2025

9:25

In this week's Parsha we have the story of Miriam getting Tzaraas. Thought it would be interesting to share a fascinating Gemara about Miriam and her marriage to Kalev Ben Yefunah, and the lessons we can learn from them. Have a good Shabbos

80

Shelach - The Good Within the Yesurim

Jun 19, 2025

9:48

Hi, There's a surprising Rabbeinu Bechayai that says Moshe Rabbeinu was supposed to appreciate that the Chet HeMeraglim caused his life to be extended another 40 years. How could Moshe feel positively about something that caused such devastation for the future of the Jewish people? Have a good Shabbos

81

Korach - Keeping Us In Check

Jun 27, 2025

9:30

Hi, With the rebellion of Korach, we find Shevet Levi stumbling in a way they haven't in previous challenges of the Jewish People. What was unique about this story that Shevet Levi was at more of a risk? Have a good Shabbos

82

Chukas - Mourning a Peacemaker

Jul 3, 2025

8:39

Hi, Chazal note the contrast between the way the people mourned for Aharon, and the way they mourned for Moshe. The main reason given is that Aharon made peace between people in dispute. What does this teach us about the different roles of Moshe and Aharon, and what can we learn from both? Have a good Shabbos

83

Balak - Why A Talking Donkey?

Jul 11, 2025

8:18

Hi, Why did Hashem make a donkey talk to Bilaam, what could it accomplish that the Malach couldn't? Why doesn't the only talking donkey in history have more inspiring words to say? What was the miracle coming to teach us? Have a wonderful Shabbos

84

Pinchas - Divvying It Up

Jul 18, 2025

7:46

Chazal tell us about the miraculous nature of how the portions of each Shevet in Eretz Yisrael were given out. Why was it done with three separate miracles? It was split up both based on the numbers of those who entered Eretz Yisrael, and the numbers of those who left Mitzrayim. Why was it based on both, and what can we learn from it? Have a good Shabbos

85

Mattos and Chodesh Av - Strength in Vows

Jul 25, 2025

8:39

The Torah talks about the importance of keeping our word, and taking our commitments seriously. Chazal even say for Hakadosh Baruch Hu to annul an oath due to Teshuva involves the Heavenly Bais Din. Ideas in the importance of keeping our vows, and the power of Teshuva to save King Yehoyachin from an oath of destruction. Have a good Shabbos

86

Tisha Baav - Bitul Torah or The Big Three?

Jul 31, 2025

9:21

The Gemara in Yoma 9b says the Mikdash Rishon was destroyed because the people did Avodah Zarah, Giluy Arayos, and Shfichas Damim. However, the Gemara in Nedarim 81a says even the Neviim couldn't figure out why it was destroyed, until Hashem revealed it was because they weren't careful about Birchas HaTorah. How do we resolve the seeming contradiction between these two Gemaras? The approaches of the Kochvei Ohr, and the Chassid Yaavetz. Have a meaningful TIsha Baav

87

Vaeschanan - Loving With All You Got

Aug 8, 2025

8:27

We say in Kriyas Shema that one should love Hashem B'chol Meodecha. The Mishna says two pshatim in what that means, either will all your money, or with every middah that Hashem sends your way. How can we come to love Hashem in every situation? Have a good Shabbos.

88

Eikev - The Tzirah Army

Aug 15, 2025

9:29

Moshe exhorts the Jewish people not to fear fighting the kings of Canaan, that Hashem would send miracles to help them, as well the Tzirah to shoot poison at them. Why did Hashem want to send an army of hornets to fight for the Jewish people, what was the purpose of using bugs and what can we learn from them? Have a wonderful Shabbos

89

Reeh - To Be On The Giving End

Aug 22, 2025

9:42

The Torah tells us to give Tzedakah, and warns us to not to give with a negative heart. Pirkei Avos says that a Chasid gives, and wants others to give as well. What should be our perspective about being asked for Tzedakah, and about asking others to give Tzedakah? Have a good Shabbos

90

Bereishis - Be Fruitful and Multiply

Oct 17, 2025

4:48

Why is the Mitzvah of Pru Urvu only commanded for men and not women? Why don't women have an obligation in this Mitzvah?

91

Vayishlach - Bowing to Eisav

Dec 5, 2025

9:43

We find Yaakov humbling himself before Eisav, and bowing seven times. Yet we also know that one is forbidden to flatter a wicked person. Exploring the balance Yaakov strikes in his appeasement of Eisav. Have a good Shabbos

92

Vayeitzei - Lavan Father Of Trickery

Nov 27, 2025

9:41

When Yaakov met Rochel, he assured her Lavan wouldn't outsmart him. He said he could be his brother in trickery. How could Yaakov the Ish Emes expect to match the one Chazal call the father of trickery? If he said he could match, how come in the end he wasn't successful and Lavan beat him? Some ideas from Rav Yaakov Kaminetzky and Rav Shalom Schwadron on the middos of Emes and Ramaos. Have a wonderful Shabbos

93

Toldos - Swear It's A Good Sale

Nov 21, 2025

8:59

Why did Yaakov make Eisav swear on the sale of the Bechoros? Would Eisav honor an oath more than he worried about other Aveiros? How could Eisav sell his Bechoros, can one sell something intangible, does it work halachically? Why did Yaakov give Eisav bread when he only asked for lentils? Trying a type of Yeshivisha style this week that I haven't done before. Hope you enjoy. Have a Good Shabbos

94

Vayeira - Like Dust and Ashes

Nov 6, 2025

7:45

While praying on behalf of Sedom, Avraham compares himself to dust and ashes in his humility before Hashem. The Gemara says some amazing ideas about the long term significance of this statement, and how it compares to other statements of humility in Tanach. Also discuss the classic Rav Yaakov Emden story about humility before Hashem and humility before people. Have a great Shabbos

95

Vayeira - Avraham's Greatness in Hachnasas Orchim

Nov 4, 2025

7:44

Chazal tell us Avraham's actions towards the Melachim were zechusim that brought benefits in the Midbar, and that will bring benefits in the times of Mashiach. Why was the story with the Melachim a greater source of zechusin than all his earlier actions. Why is Hachnasas Orchim such a tremendous Mitzvah? Was Avraham the tallest person who ever lived? Have a wonderful Shabbos

96

Vayeira - Avraham The Father of The Nations

Nov 4, 2025

8:27

Rashi says Hashem informed Avraham about Sedom because you tell a father before punishing his son. How is Avraham the father of the people of Sedom?If you like this podcast please follow us and rate us five stars, to enable more people to discover it. Always appreciate any feedback. You can reach me at the name of the podcast @gmail.comHave a good Shabbos.

97

Lech Lecha - Lot's Big Transformation

Oct 30, 2025

9:45

Chazal initially describe Lot as a Tzadik, but later describe him in much less glowing terms. What was the turning point that caused the transformation, and how did it create such a big change? Also includes an explanation of why Og merited being saved from the Mabul, was excited to finally see a pshat in it. Have a good Shabbos

98

Noach - Training Our Tongues

Oct 23, 2025

7:09

Noach was instructed to bring in 7 pairs of each Tahor animal, and 1 pair of every non-Tahor animal. Why does the Torah say it as non-tahor, the Torah uses the word Tamei to describe non kosher animals in many places? Why is it necessary to use a euphemism when speaking about an animal? Have a good Shabbos

99

Ki Savo - The Impact of a Good Plan

Sep 11, 2025

9:52

When we bring Bikkurim, we say Arami Oved Avi. Lavan never actually did it, why does it call him an Oved? Why is the Yid given credit for the good plan as if he actually pulled it off, but not judged that way for the negative plan? Have a good Shabbos and a K'sivah V'Chasimah Tovah

100

Nitzavim and Rosh Hashana - Choosing To Walk With Hashem

Sep 18, 2025

8:27

Before Rosh Hashana we focus on Teshuva and choosing the path of life. We aspire to make good choices and to associate with those who make good choices. How does internalizing Hashem's Malchus and feeling we are in His Presence help us do Teshuva, how is it a foundation of Teshuva? Have a Ksivah Vchasimah Tovah and a wonderful Shabbos.

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