Season 2
VaYechi: Did Yosef Ever Forgive His Brothers?
The Torah speaks extensively of the necessity and supreme value of forgiveness. If so, how can we understand Yosef HaTzaddik's response to his brothers in this week's sedra? They were frightened after their father's death, th...
VaYigash: Life Perplexing? Perhaps You Lack the Secret Ingredient!
When Yosef revealed himself to the brothers, he did far more than shock and humiliate them. A careful reading of what he told them afterward reveals how their cruelty to him should be understood. In doing so, Yosef taught his...
Chanuka: The Menora's Hidden Light
When we light the menora on Chanuka we are all familiar with the "parsumi nisa" of those lights shining bright for all to see. What a tremendous z'chus for us to publicize the miracle and recognize Hashem's complete dominion ...
VaYeishev: Why it's better to be unfulfilled
We are accustomed to seeking fulfillment in our life's endeavors, so it is frustrating when people or events stymie us. But when we delve deeply into the Medrash at the beginning of this Parsha, quite a different picture emer...
VaYishlach: Why were Shimon and Levi So Defiant?
The story of Dina's abduction at the hands of Schem is tragic and fraught with questions. However, perhaps most perplexing is how Shimon and Levi could defy their father without remorse. When accused by Yaakov Avinu of subje...
VaYeitze: Why didn’t Yaakov Daven for Rochel to have Children?
As we know, Yaakov Avinu's love for his wife Rochel knew no bounds. That is why it is so perplexing that he appeared cold and dismissive when she begged him to daven for her. Had any other woman, childless and broken, come to...
Toldos: The Real Reason Yaakov Wore Esav's Clothes
When Yaakov went before his father Yitzchok to receive the bracha, he disguised himself as Esav by donning clothing laden with animal skins. On the surface, this appeared to be the only way to receive the blessing destined fo...
Chayei Sara: What was Rivka Imeinu's Secret?
Rivka Imeinu was chosen to be a mother of the Jewish People because of her boundless kindness and generosity. But how did a young girl growing up in a family of evil people avoid becoming just like them? Even more difficult t...