Classes on the Parsha - Rabbi Chaim Wolosow

This letter explores Elul as a time for spiritual reflection and preparation, highlighting its customs, historical roots, and the threefold path of Torah, prayer, and good deeds. It discusses leadership models of king and Nasi, the prohibition against returning to Egypt, and draws contemporary lessons for redemption. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/018

This letter explores the customs of Elul, their connection to Parsha Shoftim, and the spiritual lessons of the shofar. It emphasizes self-reflection, protecting others' dignity, and using Elul as a time for awakening and growth in preparation for a blessed new year. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/017

This shiur explores the Torah's comparison of man to a tree, teaching that intellectual achievement alone is insufficient. True greatness comes when knowledge transforms character and action, integrating intellect and emotion for personal growth and positive influence. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/004

This shiur explores the spiritual opportunities of Elul, the metaphor of man as a tree, and the importance of refining character through Torah. It connects these themes to current events, emphasizing our responsibility to bear fruit—through kindness, wisdom, and positive influence—even in challenging times. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/021

This Torah and Tea explores the unique mitzvah of appointing judges and officers in Judaism, highlighting Hashem's essence-love for the Jewish people. It discusses the deeper role of judges, the dual aspects of mitzvah fulfillment, rabbinic commandments, and our yearning for true justice with Mashiach. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/022

This shiur explores the Torah's command 'lo tachus einecha'—do not have pity—in cases of intentional murder, false witnesses, and bodily injury. It examines when justice requires strict punishment versus monetary compensation and discusses the deeper meaning and application of this phrase across contexts. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/008

This class explores the Torah's laws regarding prophecy and false prophets, how to discern genuine prophecy, and Rambam's explanation of why Jewish belief is rooted in national revelation at Sinai. It also discusses witnesses in halacha, spiritual renewal during Elul, and faith amid tragedy. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/019

This letter explores the custom of adding three chapters of Tehillim during Elul, tracing its origins from Achia HaShiloni through the Baal Shem Tov to modern practice. It explains how the tradition evolved and highlights its deep connection to Jewish continuity and anticipation for redemption. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/015

This letter explores Rashi's commentary on Parshas Sheftim, highlighting how the Torah goes to great lengths to protect the dignity of those who have sinned or strayed. The Rebbe teaches that we must never expose or shame others for their faults, but always act with sensitivity. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/010

This shiur explores whether the Torah's phrase 'vechi yavo haLevi' refers to a Kohen or a regular Levi. Rashi interprets it as referring to a Kohen, while Rambam holds it means a regular Levi. The Rebbe analyzes both views and their implications for Shevet Levi's unity. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/012

This shiur explores the month of Elul as a time for reflection and spiritual preparation, delves into its deeper meanings and dualities, and highlights the importance of appointing a Rav or spiritual guide. It connects Elul's themes with lessons from Parshat Shoftim on leadership and personal growth. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/020

This shiur explores the principle of prophecy in Judaism, comparing the Rambam's and Talmud's views on prophetic qualifications. It discusses wisdom and humility as core traits, applies these ideas to contemporary leaders like the Rebbeim, and highlights our yearning for clear prophetic guidance today. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/011

This shiur explores the Torah's commandment of eglah arufah, highlighting the elders' declaration as a lesson in communal responsibility. It extends the concept to spiritual care, emphasizing that leaders, parents, and grandparents must ensure no Jew is left without physical or spiritual support. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/009

This letter explores the Torah's prohibition against seeking future knowledge through sorcery, emphasizing wholehearted trust in Hashem instead. It distinguishes between personal simplicity and communal guidance via prophecy, highlighting the Chassidic approach to faith and blessings during Elul. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/006

This shiur explores the Torah's nuanced approach to appointing a king, the requirements and ambivalence toward monarchy, and the principles of dynastic succession. It draws parallels between royal succession and leadership among Chassidic Rebbeim, culminating in anticipation of Mashiach. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/013

This shiur explores the Torah's expectations for leaders, emphasizing humility and service over ego. Drawing from Parshas Sheftim and stories of sages, it highlights that true leadership means serving others. The Rebbe's example further illustrates these ideals for all. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/016

This shiur explores how the Rambam teaches that anyone who dedicates themselves to serving Hashem can attain the spiritual status of a kohen. Through Elul's unique opportunities and the shofar's call, every Jew can make Hashem their true portion and prepare for a sweet new year. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/007

This letter explores the Torah's command for a Jewish king to write two Torah scrolls, highlighting the lessons of humility and responsibility. It illustrates how even minor deviations by leaders like Shaul and Moshe have major consequences, teaching us to value every detail in our spiritual lives. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/005

This letter explores the Chassidic approach to hope and anticipation for Moshiach, highlighting the Rebbe's teachings on maintaining faith even without visible change. Whistling is presented as a unique expression of this hope, reinforcing belief in imminent redemption and inspiring others. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/003

This shiur explores the Torah's command to appoint shoftim and shotrim, applying it both to communal justice and personal spiritual discipline. By guarding our senses and setting internal boundaries, we can better serve Hashem and maintain spiritual focus in daily life. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/002

This shiur explores how the Torah guides us in distinguishing true prophets from false ones. It discusses Moshe's warning against sorcery, the test of fulfilled prophecy, historical disputes among prophets, and the rule that no prophecy can override Torah law except in rare cases like Eliyahu at Mount Carmel. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/001

This class explores the identity of the Sar HaOlam, the angel in charge of the world, as discussed in Gemara and Toystvus. It examines how Matatron is identified with Chanoch, his transformation into an angel, and addresses questions about his presence at creation. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/003

This class explores the spiritual significance of Elul as a time for introspection, unity, and renewal. Drawing from Torah, Chassidus, and halacha, it discusses customs like shofar blowing, blessings, teshuvah, and the parable of the king in the field. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/019

This class explores the unique spiritual opportunities of Elul, focusing on introspection, the value of effort in serving Hashem, the accessibility of G-d during this month, and the transformative power of teshuvah. It highlights practical steps for repairing relationships and recognizing blessings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/017

This class explores the Torah prohibition against adding to or subtracting from Hashem's mitzvahs, examining examples from Chava in Gan Eden and the views of Rashi and Ramban. The Rebbe explains how even well-intentioned changes can undermine the integrity of mitzvah observance. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/012

This class explores the blessings and curses presented in Parshas Re'eh, focusing on the ceremony at Har Gerizim and Har Eval and the deeper meaning behind honoring one's parents. The discussion highlights how true respect involves both actions and emotional sensitivity. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/021

This class explores the meaning of blessing and curse in Parashas Re'eh, teaching that what appears as hardship may be hidden kindness from Hashem. Drawing from Torah, Tanya, and classic stories, it shows how perspective can transform suffering into revealed good. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/023

This class explores the Torah's dual expectation to act in ways that are both good in the eyes of Hashem and upright in the eyes of people. Drawing on Parshas Re'ei, Rashi, and Pirkei Avos, it highlights how balanced mitzvah observance brings lasting blessing for us and future generations. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/009

This class explores the challenges Jewish immigrants faced in balancing material success with spiritual fulfillment, highlighting the Lubavitcher Rebbe's vision and the impact of shluchim. Personal stories and blessings emphasize perseverance, community, and the value of Jewish outreach. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/015

This class explores the Torah's guidelines for bringing offerings on private altars, known as bamos, during periods when they were permitted. It clarifies which sacrifices were allowed, distinguishing between voluntary and obligatory offerings, and explains their deeper significance. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/007

This class explores the Torah's unique command to 'be strong' against eating blood, examining Rashi's two explanations and their implications for character refinement. It also discusses how true connection to Hashem is achieved by emulating His kindness, not just through explicit commandments. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/022

This class explores the Torah's concept of blessing and curse, examining what it truly means to bless or curse another. Drawing on the Rebbe's teachings, it explains how all that comes from Hashem is ultimately good, and our role is to become vessels for revealed blessings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/010

This class explores the mitzvah of tithing as taught in Parshas Re'ei, highlighting its role in social justice, the Shemitah cycle, and the assurance of blessing and prosperity. The Torah teaches that giving generously with joy opens channels for G-d's blessings in all our endeavors. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/005

This class explores the structure and spiritual ascent of the Beit HaMikdash, contrasting it with the Mishkan, and delves into the unique sanctity of the Kodesh HaKadoshim. The Rebbe teaches about the indestructible Jewish spark and the importance of moral sensitivity beyond halacha. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/024

This class explores why the Torah speaks of both blessings and curses, teaching that Hashem only sends blessings, but our actions determine how we experience them. Challenges are opportunities to earn closeness with Hashem, and even hardships conceal hidden kindnesses. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/013

This class explores the Torah's criteria for kosher animals, focusing on the deeper meaning of split hooves as a symbol for serving Hashem beyond our comfort zones. Drawing from Hasidic teachings and stories from Chazal, we learn how kosher eating elevates creation and refines our service. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/004

This class explores how the Torah's laws of maaser sheini and the process of laundering clothes offer profound lessons for spiritual growth. The Rebbe teaches that just as garments are cleansed and renewed, so too can our souls be purified through Torah, mitzvos, and heartfelt prayer. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/011

This class explores the mitzvah of Meiser Sheini, detailing its halachic process, the rules of redeeming produce for money, and why multiple redemptions are not allowed. The Rebbe teaches how human action in sanctifying the physical world creates enduring holiness and personal spiritual growth. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/014

This class explores the Rambam's description of the Temple Mount's dimensions, its surrounding wall, and internal structures. It discusses halachic concerns about entering the area today, details about the roof, miracles at the altar, and how arches protected ritual purity. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/002

This class explores why Hashem gives us tests, drawing from the Alter Rebbe in Likkutei Torah and classic commentaries. We learn how challenges conceal high spiritual sparks, offering opportunities for growth, deeper awareness, and a more profound connection to G-d. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/020

This class explores the Torah's caution in Parshas Re'ei against adopting the ways of other nations, using the immigrant experience in America as a case study. The Rebbe teaches about the spiritual cost of assimilation, the mitzvah of outreach, and the special opportunity for return during Elul. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/016

This class explores how one's actions can render otherwise kosher food forbidden, drawing on examples from Parashas Re'eh, and extends the lesson to personal integrity in all areas of life. The Rebbe also discusses practical steps for spiritual preparation during Elul, emphasizing tzedakah and prayer. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/025