Time for Torah: By Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Zt"l

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Parshas Tetzaveh: Combining Good Intentions with Good Actions

Feb 24, 2026

1:35:59

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת תצוה. Discussed: Sefer Zichron Meir explains how we can relate to Karbonos in modern times & why is a Karbon called a "Rayach Nechoch" (Pleasant Scent). Why did Shaul Hamelech refer to the command of Hashem as a "Dybur" (word) while Shmuel Ha'navi called it "Kol"(sound)? What exactly was the sin of Shaul Hamelech in regard to not wiping out Amalek and how his descendant Esther atoned for it. The Chofetz Chaim wonders how is it possible for us to bring Moshiach today if even greater generations couldn't.

102

Parshas Zachor: The Final Challenge - Haman, Amalek, and the Original Sin

Feb 24, 2026

1:19:11

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת זכר. Discussed: The Gaon writes that each generation faces a challenge corresponding to one of the עשרת הדברות, and the final generation before Moshiach will face the challenge of לא תחמוד. A close examination of the Aveira of the עץ הדעת and the evil of the נחש הקדמוני, which the Maharsha writes is the root of Amalek and Haman. A discussion on the true חמדה (treasure/desire) of the world, based on the story of אחאב, and how to properly utilize the Middah of חמדה.

103

Parshas Zachor: Destroying Amalek and the Parnassah Problem

Feb 24, 2026

1:15:18

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת זכור. Discussed:Why does Chazal compare the difficulty of earning a living to that of קריעת ים סוף (splitting the sea)? If Amalek represents the antithesis of spirituality & they are the spiritual arch-nemesis of the Jews and Torah, why does the battle against them have to be fought in a physical fashion and without any miracles? How can we blot out Amalek if they are no longer a viable nation and an active enemy of the Jews? What is this perplexing Mitzvah to 'remember to forget'?

104

Parshas Zachor - Tetzaveh: There is No Happenstance

Feb 24, 2026

1:19:32

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelch Kohn Ztl on פרשת תצוה and פרשת זכור. Discussed: Is there a connection between the lack of Moshe Rabeinu in Parshas Tetzaveh, and the lack of Hashem's name in the Megilla. What is the evil that Amalek represents that we have a constant everlasting battle with them, even after they seemingly have disappeared?The Netziv discusses why Moshe Rabeinu stepped back from the war with Amalek, and instead, Yehoshua led the attack.

105

Parshas Terumah: Building a Mishkan Through Commandments

Feb 15, 2026

1:33:33

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת תרומה. Discussed: Why is half of Sefer Shemos dedicated to the technical details of the building of the Mishkan? Why did Moshe Rabeinu recoil in shock when he heard about these three Miztvos: the building of the Mishkan, the Korban Tamid, and the Machtzas Hashekel?Vort from R' Aaron Leib Shtienman on the building of the Beis Hamikdash.

106

Parshas Terumah: בדי הארון - Attached to the Torah

Feb 15, 2026

46:43

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת תרומה. Discussed: The Ramban asks why Sefer Shemos, which is called ספר הגאולה (Book of Redemption), includes the building of the Mishkan, seemingly unrelated to יציאת מצרים. A Pshat in the בדי הארון, what they represent, and the message one can take from the לאו not to remove them from the ארון. The Chofetz Chaim and Ksav Sofer compare the בדי הארון to those who support Torah, which is illustrated by a story about R' Lazer Gordon.

107

Parshas Mishpatim: בית יעקב Part 2 - Establishing a Curriculum of Torah Study for Women

Feb 8, 2026

1:36:55

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת משפטים, continuing the topic of Bais Yaakov and Girls' Education.Discussed:Understanding the Gemara that women receive a greater reward for encouraging their husbands and children to learn Torah, more than the merit they receive when studying Torah themselves.The Chofetz Chaim discusses the appropriate curriculum for a Bais Yaakov based on various exceptions to the Gemara (that discouraged women's Torah learning). Is there an actual Issur to teach women Torah, and how does the Bais Yaakov system harmonize with Gemara?The Bais Halevi, based on the Zohar, discusses two aspects of Torah learning, as a means to performing Mitzvos and as a goal unto itself. This idea is represented by the two crowns the Yidden received because they preceded נעשה before נשמע.

108

Parshas Yisro: Only Torah, Not Miracles, Can Change a Person

Feb 2, 2026

1:12:37

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת יתרו.Discussed: R’ Meir Shapiro explains the difference between the Chinuch of a father and a mother, and how this is implied with the Torah referring to the women of Klal Yisroel as BEIS (the house) of Yakkov and not BAS (daughters) Yaakov. Why is it appropriate for the Torah to be given in the Parsha named after a non-Jew? What is the juxtaposition of Krias Yam Sof & the war with Amalek that inspired Yisro to come to Klal Yisroel?

109

Parshas Yisro: בית יעקב - Girls' Education and Sarah Schenirer's Innovation

Feb 2, 2026

1:18:14

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת יתרו.Discussed: Which individual contributed the most to Jewish education in the last century? The Ridvaz discusses the spiritual decline in Europe during the late 19th century, despite the prevalence of Yeshivos. He attributes the decline to the lack of Jewish education for girls and their exposure to European culture. R' Meir Shapiro explains why the women are called בית" יעקב", the "house" of Yaakov, and not בת יעקב, daughter, of Yaakov. He also discusses the ideal way that girls are educated in Yiddishkeit, using a metaphor of two ways to ingest medicine.

110

Parshas Beshalach: הים ראה וינוס - Man vs. Angel

Jan 27, 2026

1:30:58

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בשלח.Discussed:Discussing the various reasons given by Medrashim for Krias Yam Suf, implying that the miracle required human input and was not performed solely by Hashem.The Darkei Mussar, based on the Ikram, learns from Krias Yam Suf of Man's great power to partner with Hashem in creation, demonstrating Mankind's ability to elevate themselves above Malachim.The Kometz HaMincha writes, that even though Klal Yisrael was seemingly without Zchusim, they merited Krias Yam Suf because of the Kedusha they maintained in Mitzrayim, as epitomized by Yosef.

111

Parshas Beshalach: The Heart Rules the Mind

Jan 27, 2026

1:17:25

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בשלח. Discussed: R' Eliyahu Meir Bloch learns an important Mussar lesson from the מצריים that followed the Jews into the sea, an irrational act. R' Yaakov Kamenetzky wonders why magic doesn't exist anymore. What was the purpose of magic and where did it go? Why didn't Hashem miraculously save the Jews from Amalek, in stark contrast to the beginning of the Parsha when the Egyptians had the Jews surrounded?

112

Parshas Bo: Our Behavior Creates Our Character

Jan 19, 2026

1:24:53

Shiur from Rabbi Kohn Ztl on פרשת בא. Discussed: The Ksav Sofer explains why the answer for the בן הרשע, the wicked son, is found by the שאינו יודע לשאול, the son who doesn't know how to ask. The Chinuch lays down a principle to explain why Hashem commanded numerous Mitzvos.

113

Parshas Bo: Judaism Includes Everybody

Jan 19, 2026

1:18:04

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בא. Discussed: The Kometz Hamincha explains why Pharoah asked, "who and who is going?" And why he had a hard time understanding that the children would also be joining. Why is it that non-Jews can only bring a Karbon Olah and only Jews can bring a Shlomim offering, this is counter-intuitive since an Olah is the highest level of Karbon as it is completely consumed by the Mizbeach? Ksav Sofer explains why when the Torah gives the answer to the question of the Ben Rasha with the answer of the Ben Shaino Yodah Lishol and why it's crucial to teach children Alef Beis before they learn ABC.

114

Parshas Bo (Part B): Tefilin; An Unbreakable Bond

Jan 19, 2026

1:08:38

Two part Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בא , focusing on many aspects of Tefilin. Discussed: The Kli Yakir and Meshech Chochma explain why we wear Tefilin on our left hand which is the weaker hand. The Tefilin Shel Yad (hand), which we put on first, symbolizes deeds, while the Shel Rosh (head) represents the intellect and understanding of Mitzvos. The approach of the Orach Chaim, that God's greater hand, his so-called right hand, is one of love and Chesed, while His weaker arm, the left hand, is the one which smites and punishes.

115

Parshas Bo (Part A): Tefilin; An Unbreakable Bond

Jan 19, 2026

1:17:08

Two-part Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת בא, focusing on many aspects of Tefilin. Discussed: Why the many differences between the Tefilin Shel Rosh (head) and Shel Yad (hand)? Furthermore, why is Tefilin unique in that we give preference to the left hand? Also, what is the connection between יציאת מצרים and Tefilin and why do we commemorate it daily? Understanding why HaShem also wears Tefilin. The Gra demonstrates the correlation between the five senses and the various compartments of Tefilin.

116

Parshas Va'eira: The Power of Mesirus Nefesh

Jan 14, 2026

50:57

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת וארא. This week’s Shiur is dedicated לעילוי נשמת ר' יצחק בן זאב - Eddie Chernoff. Eddie, was a dear family friend and Talmid of Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl. With a vision and commitment to Torah, Eddie founded The Time for Torah Fellowship in Telshe Yeshiva of Riverdale. These Shiurim are the direct fruits of his vision and efforts. יהי זכרו ברוך. Discussed: R' Eliyahu Meir Bloch explains why we find in the Haftora that Hashem rewarded Nevuchadnetzer for the work and toil he expended in besieging the city of צר. A deeper understanding of the Gemara in Brachos that discusses why earlier generations merited to have their תפילות answered miraculously. Why do terrorists who sacrifice their lives for bad causes find so much success?

117

Parshas Va'eira: Torah Broadens the Heart and Liberates the Mind

Jan 14, 2026

1:19:58

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת וארא. Discussed: A question on the קל וחומר that Moshe Rabeinu made to Hashem, that if the Bnei Yisrael didn't listen to me then certainly Pharoah won't listen to me. However, the previous Pasuk states a reason why the Bnei Yisrael didn't listen, specifically because they were "short of breath" by being enslaved to Pharoah. So why did Moshe compare Pharoah to the Bnei Yisrael? The Orach Chaim explains what the Pasuk means that the Bnei Yisrael were "short of breath" and that it refers to a lack of Torah. One explanation given, based on the Even Ha'ezra in Parshas Naso, that a true king is one who rules over himself and can control his desires. Therefore if the Bnei Yisrael were unable to listen to Moshe because they were enslaved to Pharoah, then Kal V'chomer Pharoah could not listen to Moshe Rabeinu because Pharaoh was the biggest slave to himself.

118

Parshas Va'eira: Pharoah's Free Will

Jan 14, 2026

43:38

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת וארא. Discussed: Two questions on the Parsha arise; why did HaShem harden Pharoah's heart, doesn't this interfere with the principle of free-will? Furthermore, if HaShem did harden his heart, why are the Mitzriyim punished for not letting the Jews go? The Bais Halevi, (following the approach of the Ramban) discusses how to view choices made under duress.

119

Parshas Shemos: אושר החיים - Bilam's Painless Death v. Iyuv's Terrible Suffering

Jan 5, 2026

1:30:51

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת שמות. Discussed: Who received a harsher punishment, Bilam and his painless death, or Iyuv who lived with immeasurable suffering? R' Chaim Shmulevitz's important insight into the treasure of life, even a life full of pain and suffering. He explains the great value of life based on the Mishna in Avos, "better is one hour doing Mitzvos in this world, more than the entire Olam Haba." R' J.D. Bleich visited his aunt who was in a coma and discovered the incredible value of life, even for someone in a vegetative state.

120

Parshas Shemos: Trivial Matters with Eternal Impact

Jan 5, 2026

1:19:20

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn ztl on פרשת שמות. Discussed: What was the cause for the close relationship between Roman Emperor Antoninus and Rebbi Yehuda Hanasi? R' Yaakov Kamenetzky gleaned an important Chinuch lesson from Moshe Rabeinu's wet nurse. R' Eliyahu Meir Bloch explains the Medrash that Reuvain & Aharon would have acted differently if they would have known that their actions were being recorded in the Torah.

121

Parshas Shemos: The Jewish Name and the Jewish Identity

Jan 5, 2026

1:01:09

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn ztl on פרשת שמות. Discussed: A discussion of the prohibition against following the ways of the Goyim. The Meshoch Chochma explains why Yaakov Avinu was so insistent that he be buried in Eretz Yisrael, and the lesson Yaakov taught future generations about living in Galus. R' Moshe has a Teshuva discussing the permissibility of using non-Jewish names.

122

Parshas Shemos: The Divine Plan is Inevitably Fulfilled

Jan 5, 2026

1:18:15

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת שמות. Discussed: R’ Elya Meir Bloch’s insight into the dilemma Moshe faced in whether he should kill the Egyptian for beating the Jew. The Chasam Sofer's explanation on why the Egyptian astrologers could not discern if the savior for the Jews would be an Egyptian or a Jew. Explanation of how Pharoah, Chizkiyahu, and Yoseph's brothers all intended to prevent Hashgacha, instead they perpetuated it.

123

Parshas Vayechi: Yehuda; Your Brothers Will Acknowledge You

Jan 1, 2026

1:21:43

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl On פרשת ויחי‎. Discussed: Four definitions of הודאה and how they apply to Yehuda. The hidden significance of the ד in Yehuda's name. The Rashba writes that Moshiach, who descends from Yehuda, integrates all the different aspects of Hodaah.

124

Parshas Vayechi: B'Charbi U'Vekashti - The Spiritual Underpinnings of Our Struggles in Eretz Yisrael Today

Jan 1, 2026

1:02:20

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת ויחי‎. Discussed: Understanding that the conflict in Israel is not a physical battle but a spiritual war between the Bnei Yisrael and Yishmael. Those denying the authenticity of the Torah delegitimize our claim to Eretz Yisrael. Why did Yaakov claim that his sword and bow conquered Shchem, we know that Shimon & Levi were the ones to capture Shchem? Highlighting how Israel's decision to become more secular in the early 2000s gave way to the second Intifada.

125

Asara B'teves & Vayigash: The Peace Process - Crisis in Israel

Dec 25, 2025

1:35:02

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn ZT"L on פרשת ויגש & עשרה בטבת.DiscussedUnderstanding the purpose of a Taanis and why we fast every year, especially as Eretz Yisrael is engulfed in yet another war on Asara B'teves. It is not simply a commemoration of historical calamities, but rather a time to understand the root spiritual causes of past and present events, and to reflect upon our spiritual failings to fix them.Understanding how Tochacha (rebuke) and Shalom (peace) are two necessary attributes despite their seemingly opposite nature; and that the first Bais Hamikdash was destroyed because of improper tolerance and a lack of Tochacha, and the second Bais Hamikdash because of Sinas Chinum and a lack of Shalom.Why did Yosef and Biyomin cry about the future destruction of Mishkan Shiloh and the Bais Hamikdash, specifically at the moment when the brothers finally reunited and why did each only cry about the other's tragedy.

126

Lessons from Tes Teves - Tochacha, Richuk, and Sinas Chinam

Dec 25, 2025

1:25:40

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn ztl on ט' טבת.Discussed:Discussed the reasons and tragedies behind the fast of Ches and Tes Teves, as brought in Megillas Tannis; including the translation of the Torah into Greek, the death of Ezra & Nechamia, and the birth of Christianity.Discussed the Gemara which teaches the correct way to give Tochacha (rebuke), as illustrated by the story of R' Yehoshua Ben Prachya and Yeshu.Ksav Sofer in Vayigash explains that proper Tochacha is motivated by love, and not rebuking someone is a form of Sinas Chinum, which led to the destruction of the first Bais Hamikdash.

127

Parshas Vayigash: Leadership Starts with Self

Dec 23, 2025

1:18:19

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn ztl on פרשת ויגש. Discussed: Chazal explain why Yehuda deserved kingship. R' Eliyahu Meir Bloch contrasts secular kingship with Jewish leadership. Yosef represents the Tzadik who never sinned, and Yehuda represents the Tzadik who falls and does Teshuva.

128

Parshas Mikeitz: מרגלים אתם - Understanding Yosef's Plan

Dec 17, 2025

1:22:57

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת מקץ.Discussed:The Gra answers a question on the Ramban, why would Yosef concoct a plan to torment his brothers and father just so he can fulfill his dreams?The Baal Haturin connects Yosef's accusation that the brothers were spies (מרגלים אתם), with the 10 Meraglim in Parshas Shelach. What is the significance of this connection?Rabeinu Bchaya writes on the Pasuk, ואתם עלו לשלום אל אביכם (go up to your father in peace), that this alludes to the Asara Harugei Malchus, and he elaborates how these 10 Tzadikim atoned for the sin of the brothers when they sold Yosef.

129

Parshas Mikeitz: Wealth in this World

Dec 17, 2025

1:32:31

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת מקץ.Discussed:Understanding the Gemara, that Yosef split and hid his storehouses of wealth and three people later found this vast wealth: Korach, Antoninus, and future Tzadikim. What is the significance of these three groups, and why is one-third only reserved for future Tzadikim, what about current Tzadikim?Discussing three sources of wealth, as explained by the Ben Yehoyoda, and the three ways money can be utilized, all of which are exemplified by the three sets of Yosef's storehouses.R' Elya Lopian explains why Yosef told Pharaoh to specifically hire a WISE person to conserve food during the seven years of plenty. He continues and learns a valuable lesson in how a wise man views this world, a place rich in opportunities!

130

Chanukah: The Unity Of the Menorah

Dec 14, 2025

1:14:48

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on חנוכה.Discussed: The contrast of the inclusiveness of Purim and the seemingly divisive nature of Chanukah explained with a Chasam Sofer. The Sforno explains why there are 7 distinct branches to the Menorah but it is all cast out of a single unit. Rabeinu Bichaya explains why the ten martyrs had to atone for the sale of Yosef.

131

Chanukah, December 25, and the Winter Solstice - Jewish Enlightenment

Dec 14, 2025

1:00:38

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on חנוכה and December 25th.Discussed:Four themes that we find in the Sefarim for Chanukah: 1) The physical salvation of the Jews and military conquest, celebrating when the Jews reconquered Eretz Yisrael and the establishment of Jewish independence, free from foreign influence. 2) A celebration for the rededication of the Bais Hamikdash. 3) The spiritual salvation from Greek assimilation & Shmad and the eternity of the Torah. 4) The miracle of the burning oil.The Gemera says that Adam Harishon celebrated the first winter solstice for eight days. The Maharal writes that this 8-day celebration took place on Chanukah and December 25th, and like Chanukah, Adam celebrated the empowerment of light over darkness.Contrasting the approach of the Yidden in establishing Chanukah and the Christians in establishing Xmas.

132

Chanuka: The Supernatural Lights

Dec 14, 2025

1:11:33

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on חנוכה.

133

Chanuka & Parshas Miketz: The Light of the Menorah - Hope in Galus

Dec 14, 2025

1:19:22

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on חנוכה. Discussed: Three Questions on Chanukah; (1) Chazal tell us that Purim marks the end of prophecy and supernatural miracles, if so, why do we find supernatural miracles in the Chanukah story which takes place hundreds of years later? (2) Normally, Hashem performs miracles involving the salvation of the Jews, yet the miracle of the burning oil was simply helping the performance of a Mitzvah? (3) Why did Hashem perform a miracle for the burning of the oil, if impure oil would have been allowed due to the principle of Tuma Hutra Bitzibur?Reb Mottel Progimonsky explains Rashi, who writes that we see the great reward of Tzadikim from the fact that Yosef was sold to a spice caravan and was spared a foul odor on his trip down to Mitzrayim. What is this great reward? Yosef was in the process of being betrayed by his own brothers, did he really care how the caravan smelled?

134

Parashat Vayeshev: The Value of Suffering

Dec 8, 2025

56:48

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת וישב.

135

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.

136

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).

137

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.

138

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).

139

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)?

140

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?

141

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.

142

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?

143

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.

144

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?

145

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?

146

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.

147

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.

148

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?

149

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.

150

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.