Time for Torah: By Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Zt"l

1

Parshas Matos: The Rambam's Sixth, Seventh, & Eighth Principle - נבואת משה Part B

Jul 7, 2026

1:13:45

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת מטות,‎ a continuation from the previous Shiur on the topic of נבואת משה. Discussed: • The Rambam's approach, based on various Pesukim in the Torah, that Revelation at Har Sinai also established Moshe Rabeinu as the ultimate Navi and transmitter of the Torah. • How the flaws in a Navi's Middos creates barriers in the prophetic vision. In contrast, Moshe Rabeinu's unique character traits differed from other Neviem, enabling him to transmit the Torah and act as the conduit between Hashem and the world.

2

Parshas Matos: The Rambam's Sixth, Seventh, & Eighth Principle - נבואת משה Part A

Jul 7, 2026

1:20:01

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת מטות‎ on the topic of נבואת משה. Discussed: • What is the difference between 'כה אמר ה', the phrase used by all נביאים, and the phrase 'זה דבר ה' used by Moshe? • Why does the Rambam have two separate principles of faith, one to believe in prophecy and a second for נבואת משה? What is so special about נבואת משה that it requires a separate principle of faith? • The Rambam explains what purpose miracles play in relation to prophecy and what are the requirements before we accept someone as a bona fide נביא.

3

Parshas Matos: Elef Lemateh - Doing Battle With Tefilla

Jul 7, 2026

1:34:17

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת מטות‎. Discussed:The pros & cons of taking out a life insurance policy.R' Chatzkel's deep insight as to why the number of people dedicated to praying corresponded to those that fought in the battle, and why was it necessary for them to be on the actual battlefield when they davened. The Chofetz Chaim's explanation as to why Hagolas Keilim (Kashering utensils) is called Chok Hatorah, similar to the Para Adumah.

4

Parshas Matos: The Purifying Power of Torah

Jul 7, 2026

1:36:15

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת מטות‎. Discussed: The Chofetz Chaim finds a parallel between the Parsha of Kashering utensils and the methods for proper Teshuva. A lesson from the Bnei Gad and Bnei Reuvain about the importance of staying affiliated with the entirety of Bnei Yisrael. Also discussed, is how children are influenced by the place where they are raised.

5

How Pinchas Saved the Jewish People

Jul 1, 2026

1:12:36

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת פנחס. Discussed: A Pshat why the Jews deserved to die even though they were motivated by lust to serve idols, and therefore according to the Rambam they don’t deserve capital punishment. The Sforno explains why Pinchas merited a long life because of his vengeful act. R’ Chaim explains why Pinchas was rewarded with a covenant of peace when his action was one of violence.

6

Parshas Pinchas: In the Public's Eye

Jul 1, 2026

1:10:04

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת פנחס.Discussed:Understanding the Sforno, that the public sin of Zimri required a public act of vengeance in response.A discussion on the possible merit that the United States had to become a superpower.R' Chaim Shmulevitz explains the unusual and vulgar worship of Baal Peor. Furthermore, why did this repulsive form of Avoda Zara attract so many Jews?

7

Parshas Balak: Bilam in the 21st Century

Jun 25, 2026

1:30:13

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בלק. Discussed: • R' Ahron Bakst asks, if the Goyim claimed they needed a Navi to inspire them, why did Hashem respond by sending them a person as morally reprehensible as Bilam? • The lesson of Parshas Bilam and its relevance to the modern era, the so-called "information age". • A discussion of how Bilam and Balak both returned home, unaffected by the wondrous miracles they had just witnessed.

8

Parshas Balak: The Thirst to Learn

Jun 25, 2026

1:32:07

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בלק.Discussed:R' Chaim Shmulevitz gleans important insights into human nature from the story of Bilam, where we see how one person can have extremely conflicting qualities exist in themselves.The Orach Chaim explains the Bracha of לא ראה עמל בישראל ( he did not see toil by the Jews).The Alshich learns an important lesson in how to approach learning Torah from the Mishna in Avos, that one should drink with thirst the words of חכמים. When one is thirsty he is not picky and would happily drink water.

9

Parshas Balak: Greatness Without Goodness is Evil

Jun 25, 2026

1:18:50

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בלק. Discussed: The contrast between the reactions of Yisro and Balak after each heard the same exact news about Yitzias Mitzrayim, and how their reactions remain the theme of each of their respective Parshios. If as Chazal tells us, "Prophecy is one of the highest spiritual levels a person can reach", how did Bilam attain that level while being such a low and deplorable individual? The lesson that Hashem was showing the other nations by giving them such a powerful prophet like Bilam.

10

Parshas Chukas: The Reasons For Mitzvos

Jun 22, 2026

1:35:39

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת חוקת. Discussed:The Ohr Hachaim explains why the Mitzvah of Parah Aduma is given the title of “Law of the (entire) Torah” (Chukas Hatorah) and not “The Law of Parah” and why this Parsha follows Parshas Korach. Dovid Hamelech’s deep insight into what is unique regarding the performance of the Mitzvah of Bris Milah. R’ Moshe’s explanation of the juxtaposition of the two places in the Torah that tie the specific mitzvah to the entirety of the whole Torah; Para Aduma and Kashering utensils.

11

Parshas Chukas: Learning a Lesson from the Sin at Mei Merivah

Jun 22, 2026

1:11:27

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת חוקת.Discussed: Highlighting the mysterious nature of Moshe's Aviera, and how the Mefarshim struggle to explain what Moshe did wrong. Understanding the Machlokes between Rashi and Ramban. Was Moshe supposed to hit the rock or speak to it? If Moshe was only supposed to speak to the rock (Rashi's Pshat) why did he bring the מטה? Which מטה did Moshe bring (see the Kli Yakir)? The Chasam Sofer explains why the Navi writes that Moshe, Miriam, and Ahron all died at the same time, implying some underlying connection between all three deaths. He writes that the Aveira of Lashon Hara underlies all three deaths, and this Aveira festered in Klal Yisrael resulting in the destruction of the second Bais Hamikdash with Sinas Chinum.

12

Parshas Chukas: New Generation, Old Issues

Jun 22, 2026

1:27:03

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת חוקת. Discussed: Understanding the Mishnah in Rosh Hashana which discusses the purpose of the bronze snake in curing the Bnei Yisrael. Rabeinu B'chaya's explanation as to why only now, at the culmination of the 40-year journey to Eretz Yisroel did the Jews start to complain about the מן. What changed after 40 years in the desert, and what exactly was their complaint?

13

Parshas Korach: The Spinmeister

Jun 16, 2026

1:28:12

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת קרח‎.Discussed:The כח of Korach to ensnare is similar to that of the Meraglim. This is the power of "spin", the ability to mislead people and twist a story to one's personal agenda and away from the TorahThis כח of misleading people by spin can be found throughout today's society, in the news media and entertainment industry, and can be traced throughout history, all the way back to the נחש הקדמוני and the sin of the Etz Hadas.The Yalkut writes how Korach created a work of fiction to showcase that the laws of the Torah are unfair and only benefit Moshe and Aharon, and with this fictional story was able to ensnare people to his cause.

14

Parshas Korach: Understanding the Story of Korach

Jun 16, 2026

1:19:17

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת קרח‎.Discussed:The difference between Miriam’s mistaken assessment of Moshe and that of Korach’s & how they relate to the Rambam's 7th and 8th principal of his 13 Ikirum.The Meshach Chachma’s explanation of why Moshe was willing to put everything on the line to prove he was right, and why Korach had to be killed in such a supernatural way.Why do the Ketores and the staff of Ahron have special powers to save innocent people?

15

Parshas Korach: The Bible Codes - Authenticating the Torah and Predicting the Future

Jun 16, 2026

1:34:09

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת קרח‎. Discussed: Understanding Korach's motivation to argue against Moshe Rabeinu and different aspects of his arguments. Why did Korach think he would be successful in his fight with Moshe and why did he err in interpreting his Ruach Hakodesh?A perspective on the Bible Codes based on the lessons from Parshas Korach.The Vilna Gaon explains how the Urim V'tumim worked. He also explained the dialogue between Chana and Eli Hakohen, based on a cryptic Rashi.

16

Parshas Korach: The Message Behind the Thread

Jun 16, 2026

1:34:03

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת קרח‎. Discussed: The difference between one who's faith is miracle-based when God openly reveals himself, and one who works on his faith, struggling to cultivate belief and reliance on Hashem. R' Moshe explains why Korach used a Tallis full of Techeiles (blue thread) to challenge Moshe. What is the significance of the Mateh Ahron (the Staff of Ahron) that it bloomed with its flower, bud, and almond? And why did the almond branch remain for eternity fruit and blossom together?

17

Parshas Shelach: The Age of Misinformation

Jun 9, 2026

1:34:52

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת שלח.Discussed:Why do we refer to the spies as "מרגלים", this week's Parsha doesn't use that terminology even once!The Steipler writes that the spies mission was merely to report what they saw, but they became haughty and sinned by inputting their own opinions and agendas.The Kometz Hamincha writes that the Mitzvah of Tzisis is to teach us to learn from the mistake of the Meraglim, who instead of acting merely as spies, acted like leaders deciding and judging whether they could or could not conquer Eretz Yisrael. He compares this to Man who has an army of senses and emotions that "report" from the world, but ultimately the person must decide his actions based on his intellect and Torah.

18

Parshas Be'halot'cha : The Power Of Faith

Jun 2, 2026

1:32:36

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בהעלותך. Discussed: The Gemora states that rainfall is a greater demonstration of God’s mercy than the resurrection of the dead. The Ein Yaakov on how faith empowers people. The financial advice that is given in the Gemara in Brachos, and R’ Chaim Shmulevitz’s explanation on why one should overspend on his dependents, further explaining the unique relationship between a father to his son.

19

Parshas Be'halot'cha: Pesach Sheni and the Charedi Mentality

Jun 2, 2026

1:23:42

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בהעלותך.Discussed:Why are zealous Jews called Charedim (those that tremble) and how this characteristic was exhibited in the episode of Pesach Sheni. This trait differs from the attitude of many modern communities.R' Moshe learns important lessons from the Parsha of Pesach Sheni, where ordinary Yidden achieved supernatural success because they served Hashem with love and persevered against all odds to do a Mitzvah.Chazal write that the beginning of the downward spiral at the end of the Parsha started with Klal Yisrael's sinful attitude as they "ran away" from Har Sinai and Ruchniyos. Klal Yisrael then continued to fall when they pursued physical pleasures, leading to the episode of the מן at קברות התאוה.

20

Parshas Naso: כה תברכו - Supernatural Blessings

May 25, 2026

1:26:26

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת נשא, on Birchas Kohanim. Discussed:The Ksav Sofer asks, what does Chazal mean that there is no Mazel for Jews, this contradicts the Gemara that children, wealth, and health are dependent on Mazel. Furthermore, how do the Birchas Kohamim, which refer specifically to children and wealth, have an effect if it's against someone's Mazel? A possible rationalization for the Minhag in חוץ לארץ, as brought in the Rema, to Duchen only on Yom Tov but not any other time (not even shabbos). The Limudei Nissim writes that Avrohom Avinu was Zoche to be above Mazel and not under the control of nature when he went with Yitzchok to do the unnatural act of עקידת יצחק. This act continues with Klal Yisrael and their acceptance of the Torah.

21

Shavous - Ruth Part 1: Why Do We Read It On Shavuos ?

May 14, 2026

1:32:58

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on שבועות, on the topic of Megilas Rus. Discussed: Unlike the other four Megilahs which are philosophical works or focus on the salvation/tragedy of the Jews on a national level, Rus is a simple story about one individual. Why was a Megillah written about her story and why read it on Shavuos? The Yalkut Shemoni writes that the point of Megillas Rus is to send only one message - the reward of people that do Chessed and are kind to others. Similarly Chazal say the Torah is wrapped in kindness since it starts with Hashem creating Chava at the beginning of creation so that Adam would have a companion and the Torah ends with Hashem burying Moshe (a Chessed Shel Emes). Why is this message of kindness so intertwined with the Torah and why is it so important to be driven home before Kabolas Hatorah? Why was the lack of kindness & gratitude from Moav such a bad trait that their descendants are not allowed to marry into Klal Yisroel, something that isn’t prohibited even from the descendants of Amalek, the arch-nemesis of the Jews! Yet, this is also precisely why the daughters were excluded from the ban.

22

Shavous: Receiving the Torah Everyday

May 13, 2026

1:34:15

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelch Kohn Ztl on שבועות. Discussed: The Kli Yakir asks, why does the Torah refer to the holiday of Shavous as a day of the מנחה חדשה (Korbon of the new harvest), but never mentions the momentous occasion of קבלת התורה which occurred on that day? Three reasons why the only קרבן ציבור that was brought from חמץ, which represents the Yetzer Hara, was brought on Shavous. The Kli Yakir, in Olas Efraim, draws parallels between Shavous and Rosh Hashana, both of which are mentioned in the Torah in a vague and ambiguous way.

23

Shavous: HaKadosh Baruch Hu's Torah! - Birchas HaTorah Part 1

May 13, 2026

1:02:06

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on שבועות.

24

Shavous - Bamidbar: Every Jew Has a Portion in the Torah, No Exceptions

May 10, 2026

1:12:24

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת במדבר and שבועות. Discussed: A few lessons one can learn from the Pesukim leading up to Kabalas HaTorah. Why does the Torah include lengthy and repetitious Pesukim which discuss the counting of the Jews in the Midbar? The Gemara discusses the idea that a poor person, a rich person, and a Rasha will be held accountable for how much time they set aside for Torah study.

25

Bechukotai: Olam Haba: Why the Great Secret?

May 6, 2026

1:32:03

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בחוקתי, and on the topic of Olam Haba. Discussed: An in-depth look at a Kli Yakir, who discusses many answers brought by the Rishonim to the famous question; why doesn't the Torah clearly state there is an afterlife and that the soul lives eternally even after death?The Ran and the Kuzari explain how the climax of the brachos in the Parsha is how we will live with Hashem and attain a spiritual connection to God in this world. This is the height of reward, and the Torah promises that this is achievable even in the physical world.

26

Parshas Bechukosai : Exile, Redemption, and Eliyahu HaNavi

May 6, 2026

1:29:28

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בחוקתי. Discussed: What does the Sifra (brought by Rashi) mean that Yaakov took the 'ו' (Vav) of Eliyahu's name as a guarantee that he will come and herald the redemption? Why does Yaakov want collateral if the Torah already guaranteed there will be a redemption? What is the necessity and the purpose of Eliyahu Hanavi announcing the imminent arrival of Moshiach? The Rambam explains the Haftorah of Shabbos Hagadol, which is the last prophecy of the last prophet (Malachi), and writes that Eliyahu Hanavi's mission is only to bring peace and Teshuvah to the world, with no other agenda. R’ Schwab explains the necessity of Eliyahu Hanavi heralding Moshiach prior to his arrival, based upon the Ramban that explains that even though the birth of Moshe Rabeinu was arguably a much greater miracle than the birth of Yitzchak (since his mother was even older than Sarah Imainu) still the Torah only recounts miracles that were predicted in the Torah prior to their occurrence.

27

Parshas Behar: True Freedom

May 6, 2026

1:32:54

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בהר.Discussed:The Sefas Emes explains that true freedom is found in accepting the yoke of Torah, even amidst exile. Similarly, by keeping Shabbos one removes the burden of weekday labor.

28

Parshas Behar: Shemita and Har Sinai - EVERY Jew Needs to Learn!

May 6, 2026

1:16:00

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בהר.Discussed:The Chasam Sofer explains that Shemita is the ultimate proof that the Torah is from Hashem. If it weren’t true, no one would keep Shemita after one cycle once they saw the promised blessings weren’t fulfilled.The Beis Yisroel writes that just as Shemita requires Bitachon in order to fulfill the Mitzvah, so too all Mitzvos and Torah study can only be properly observed with a “Shemita mentality” and faith in Hashem.The Sefer HaChinuch explains that the three crowns—Torah, Kehuna, and Malchus—were given to all of Klal Yisroel. For example, although Kehuna was emphasized in the Kohanim, every Jew can access its attributes. Similarly, the Sforno notes that the Torah expects even a farmer to take a Sabbatical and aspire to the spiritual goals of a Kohen or Levi—unlike other religions, where spiritual sabbaticals are only for clergy or scholars.

29

Parshas Kedoshim: Holy Nation - Maintaining Communal Standards

Apr 22, 2026

1:10:47

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת קדושים. Discussed: R' Eliyahu Meir Bloch explains why the Mitzvah of Kedoshim was said B'hakhel, in public to men, women, and children. And how the expectation of holiness demanded from the community are different than those expected from the individual. The Akeidas Yitzchok has harsh words for the Jews of pre-expulsion Spain, and warns of the consequences of those that ignore community responsibilities as seen by the destruction of Sodom. The proper way to give rebuke, as illustrated with a story about the Chofetz Chaim.

30

Parshas Kedoshim: Expand Yourself to Include Others

Apr 22, 2026

1:19:14

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת קדושים. Discussed: Various Peshatim on the Mitzvah of Kedoshim Tehiyu, 'You shall be holy'. R' Shimon Shkop wonders how one can emulate Hashem; God is completely selfless, while man is totally self-centered.

31

Parshas Acharei Mos: Meritocracy and Aristocracy - יקרה היא מפנינים

Apr 22, 2026

1:34:08

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת אחרי מות. Discussed: R' Yaakov Emden brings a historical account written by a Roman who describes the Avodah of the Kohen Gadol in the Bais Hamikdash on Yom Kippur. The Gemara says that a ממזר Talmid Chochom comes before a Kohen Gadol who is an עם הארץ. This can be illustrated by the story brought in the Gemara about Sh'maya & Avtalyon who met a Kohen Gadol on Motzei Yom Kippur, as explained by the Maharsha. R' Yisrael Salanter writes that יקרה היא מפנינים refers to the Kohen Gadol in the Kodesh Hakodashim on Yom Kippur, who is the holiest person in the holiest place during the holiest time, and that the Torah is more precious even than that!

32

Parshas Acharei Mos: The Relationship Between Hashem, the Jewish People, and Eretz Yisrael - Part B

Apr 22, 2026

1:09:10

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת אחרי מות. Discussed:The Sifri state that living in Eretz Yisrael is equal to the whole Torah. Does this mean that the Zionist are correct that they can live in Eretz Yisrael without keeping Torah and Mitzvos or pursuing spirituality?Why was the רשע Titus able to desecrate the Kodesh Hakodoshim without repercussion, in contrast to נדב ואביהו, two great Tzadikim, who deviated slightly and were instantly burned by fire?The Ramban asks why were the Canaanim expelled from Eretz Yisrael because of their perversions, unlike the Egyptians who were equally perverted yet remained in their homeland?A Pshat to properly understand the Ramban's explanation of the connection between Hashem's Hashgacha and Klal Yisrael. With this understanding, we can understand that despite the inherent obligation and meaning of Mitzvos applicable everywhere, only in Eretz Yisrael do Mitzvos create a personal relationship to Hashem, and only in Eretz Yisrael do we merit direct Hashgacha Pratis as a result of Mitzvos. Similarly, these ideas can help answer the question why we don't experience rewards for Mitzvos in this world.

33

Parshas Acharei Mos: The Relationship Between Hashem, the Jewish People, and Eretz Yisrael - Part A

Apr 22, 2026

1:09:53

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת אחרי מות. Discussed:The Ramban wonders why the Pasuk states that Klal Yisrael will be expelled from Eretz Yisrael if they violate the Issur of Arayos, however, we know that these Aveiros are obligations universally applicable, even outside Eretz Yisrael.The Ramban (and many Sifrei Kabbalah) elaborate on the spiritual roots of all physical manifestations, and how all the nations of the world have a שר (Malach) representing them as a power source in the spiritual realm. On the other hand, Klal Yisrael receive their Shefa directly from Hashem, without any intermediary.With this background, we can explain the root cause of Avoda Zara, and why people were attracted to its worship. We can also explain why Yidden are severely punished more than other nations when they violate Mitzvos or serve Avoda Zara.Why do Chazal write that those who dwell outside of Eretz Yisrael are as if they live without G-d?

34

Sefirah: Sustained by a Small Allowance

Apr 15, 2026

1:29:03

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on ספירה, continuing the theme of the last Shiur. Discussed: Why do we count Sefira using the Korban Omer as a reference point, isn't Pesach or Shavous a more significant event? And why is the Sefira/Korban named after the size of the Korban, (Omer is just a measurement)? Furthermore, why do we start from the second day of Pesach and not the first? The Torah is seemingly inter-connected to the Mitzvah of Shemita and to the מן, what is this relationship? A Pshat why the מן fell only in small quantities.

35

Sefira: Growing from Emunah to Bitachon

Apr 15, 2026

1:05:56

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on ספירה.Discussed:The Baal Haturim explains that the Pasuk of the מן has all the letters of the Alef Bais as a message that Hashem will provide someone who keeps the Torah with all their needs just as Hashem provided Klal Yisroel in the desert with the מן. This is why when Yirmiyahu rebuked Klal Yisroel to learn more Torah he showed them the מן as proof a person has time to learn since Hashem will take care of them. This is the Gemora’s message that the Torah was only given to מן eaters, to highlight two interconnected parts; you need faith in Hashem to be able to learn, and at the same time, if you learn Torah, Hashem will take care of your needs.Sefer Chinuch explains that the Korban Omer celebrates the idea that everything is from Hashem, and that the yearly crop is no different than מן which falls from heaven. We can now understand why we count Sefira using the Korbon Omer as a barometer, and why we count away from Pesach (which represents Emunah) and build towards Bitachon and the Kabalas Hatorah of Shavous.

36

Parshas Tazria - Metzora: The Classic Approach to Hashgacha Pratis

Apr 12, 2026

1:25:24

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn on פרשת תזריע-מצורע, discussing the topic of Hashgacha Pratis. Discussed: A discussion on the fundamentals of Hashgacha Pratis, based on the Chinnuch: What is Hashgacha Pratis and how does it work? Do all animals have Hashgacha Pratis or just mankind? The Orchos Chaim Lha'Rosh explains why Hashem begins the 10 commandments by saying "I am your God who took you out of Egypt'' and not "I am God who created heaven and earth"?Recognizing how the Rishonim's approach to Hashgacha Pratis differs from the more common and modern approach, which is based on Kabbalah.

37

Parshas Tazria: The Nature of Man and His Purpose in the World

Apr 12, 2026

1:27:31

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn on פרשת תזריע.Discussed: Understanding the Medrash אחור וקדם צרתני (man was created first and last). Different approaches to understanding how mankind contributes to the world. In what sense are environmentalists correct in their view that humans corrupt and destroy the world? An insight based on Onkelos in Bereishis, that Man was created in a combination of spiritual and physical elements which finds its primary manifestation through speech. This unique characteristic differentiates Man both from animals and from angels.

38

Parshas Shemini: Lessons from the Deaths of נדב ואביהוא

Apr 10, 2026

1:05:42

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohnn Ztl on פרשת שמיני.Discussed:Why do we find many conflicting reasons, brought in the Torah and Chazal, for why Nadav and Avihu died. Some seem to regard them in a positive light while others seem to be negative.A lesson from the Chasam Sofer on the sacrifice faced by many leaders in regard to their family life.The Ksav Sofer has a beautiful Pshat to tie together the various reasons that were given to explain the deaths of נדב ואביהוא.

39

Parshas Shmini: The Korbonos and Avodas Hashem

Apr 10, 2026

1:09:16

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת שמיני . Discussed:Understanding the concept behind Korbonos, and why Ahron brought a Korbon Chattas for himself and a Korbon Olah for Klal Yisrael to atone for the חטא העגל (sin of the Golden Calf).The Malbim writes that each person represents a mini-Mishkan. Man's Avoda is to sacrifice his animalistic nature, paralleling the Kohen's Avoda in the Bais Hamikdash.The Kli Yakir explains, based on a Medrash, how Machlokes and jealousy (מכירת יוסף) lead to Avoda Zara (חטא העגל).

40

Parshas Shemini: Simcha in the Face of Adversity

Apr 10, 2026

1:27:39

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת שמיני . Discussed: Understanding how Aharon was able to receive נבואה after the deaths of his two sons, in contrast to Yaakov who didn't receive prophecy for the 22 years he only assumed Yosef was dead. R' Chaim Vital's principle for how one can discover their true mission in life. The Bais Halevi on the Shira of Moshe, and how Dovid Hamelech had an appreciation for the bad along with the good.

41

Pesach: The Four Sons Part B

Mar 29, 2026

1:17:40

Two part shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פסח.This two-part series delves into the sources for the Four Sons, glean many insights and lessons into how the Torah presents the Four Sons, and contrasts them to how the Haggadah portrays them.

42

Pesach: Antisemitism Preserves the Jewish Nation - With Your Blood You Shall Live Part 2

Mar 29, 2026

1:50:43

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פסח, continuing on the topic of Galus and antisemitism.Discussed:Understanding the Pasuk brought in the Haggadah, ואמר לך בדמיך חיי ואמר לך בדמיך חיי (and I said to you, by your blood you shall live, and I said to you by your blood you shall live). Should we understand the Pasuk על פי פשט or דרוש, which seem contradictory? Furthermore, why does the Pasuk repeat itself?The Bais Halevi explains the purpose of antisemitism and how the Egyptians' antisemitism correlated with the Yidden's attempt to cover their Milah and assimilate into Egyptian society. He also explains why the Pasuk in Tehilim praises Hashem for inciting the Egyptian's hatred.A discussion on the proper historical perspective of antisemitism throughout the centuries, and comparing this perspective to an article written by a non-religious Israeli in Ha'aertz.

43

Pesach: Jewish Continuity Throughout Galus - With Your Blood You Shall Live Part 1

Mar 29, 2026

1:21:11

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פסח, discussing the topic of Galus and antisemitism.Discussed:Analyzing the Pesukim in Ki Savo that the Haggadah Darshens to elaborate on the story of יציאת מצרים and how the Jews became a nation as they were metaphorically born in Mitzrayim, in Galus.The Meshech Chochma writes that Yaakov Avinu established for future generations the strategy Jews use to survive in Galus and avoid assimilation. This is what the Pasuk means מלמד שלא ירד יעקב להשתקע, that Yaakov Avinu taught us not to settle in Galus.The Meshach Chochma continues and writes about the cycle of Jewish settlement in various countries throughout Galus. It begins with the painful birth of the community which then flourishes both physically and spiritually. Afterward, the Yidden become comfortable and settle in their adopted country, declining spiritually until they ultimately end in prosecution and exile.

44

Pesach: Shiur on the Mitzvah of סיפור יציאת מצרים

Mar 29, 2026

1:27:43

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פסח.Discussed:Is there a minimum Shiur for the Mitzvah of Sippur Yetzias Mitzrayim? If not, what about the famous R' Gamliel that obligates one to say at least three things (Pesach, Matzah, and Marror)?Different ways to understand the Chiyuv to recite Hallel on Leil Pesach, including Rashi and the Rambam who consider it a part of סיפור יציאת מצרים, and the Chasam Softer and R' Hai Gaon who write that Hallel is a self-standing obligation triggered by סיפור יציאת מצרים.Discussing the source and parameters for the Mitzvah of סיפור יציאת מצרים, based on different Pesukim in the Torah. Also discussed, the Rishonim who hold that there is no specific Mitzvah of סיפור יציאת מצרים.

45

Pesach: The Election of Klal Yisroel - Part B

Mar 29, 2026

1:31:50

The second part of a Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פסח. Discussed: Why Bris Milah and Karbon Pesach are the only positive commandments that have the severe punishment of Kares, and why having a Bris is a pre-requisite to be able to partake in a Karbon Pesach. Why the Torah refers to Pesach as "Shabbos," and how the theme of Sefirah is to ‘earn’ Shavous. Why we say Yizokor on Yom Tov.

46

Pesach: The Election of Klal Yisroel - Part A

Mar 29, 2026

1:34:16

First part of a Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פסח. Discussed: The significance that Hashem personally killed the Egyptians by Makkos Bachoros and did not use an emissary. Additionally, why do we focus our eternal gratitude to Hashem for the inaction of passing us over and not killing us?Why did Klal Yisroel bow down in gratitude when they were told they would have descendants that would be asking the questions of the Ben Harasha (Wicked son) from the Hagadah?Beis Halevi’s explanation of the Medrash that Hashem waited for the approval of the Angles before starting Makkos Choshech and how it contrasts with Krias Yam Suf where the angles protested.

47

Pesach: The Foundation of Judaism

Mar 29, 2026

1:35:09

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פסח. Continuation of the topics discussed from the shiurim on Parsahas Hachodesh and Purim.

48

Parshas Tzav: זריזות in the Service of Hashem

Mar 25, 2026

40:33

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת צו. Discussed: Various Peshatim in the words of Chazal, that the Korbon Tamid requires extra זריזות (vigilance) because it involves a loss of money. The Medrash Tanchuma emphasizes the importance of studying the Halachos of Korbonos, and why children are particularly important in this regard.

49

Parshas Hachodesh Part 2 - Jewish Months and the Second Temple Era

Mar 10, 2026

1:16:24

The second part of a Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת החודש.Discussed: R' Yaakov Kaminetzky elaborates on the Ramban, presenting a new approach to understanding the Geula from Bavel and Tekufas Bayis Sheni.R' Yaakov's perspective on the modern state of Israel as it relates to Galus, specifically to the horrors of the Holocaust and the rise of the Soviet Iron Curtain. R' Yaakov explains that during Bayis Sheni the Yidden spoke Aramaic, had Aramaic names, and used Persian months as a way to highlight that they had not yet reached full Geula. On the flip side, when we are in Galus, it is more important to keep Jewish names as a way to stave off assimilation, as we saw in Miztrayim.

50

Parshas Hachodesh Part 1: Jewish Months?

Mar 10, 2026

50:59

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת החודש.Discussed: The Ramban explains when and why we started calling the months by name (Nissan Iyar etc); names that are not Jewish but rather based on Persian/Babylonian pagan God's. This leads to the question, why are we using Persian names for our calendar? The Sefer Haikram asks, how could the Jews adopt non-Jewish Persian names of the months? Doesn't the Torah command us to count the months by number starting from Nissan? The Sefer Haikram concludes that this demonstrates that parts of the Torah can change, arguing against the Rambam's Ninth Principle, that the Torah is immutable and will never change.