Deeper Look At The Parsha

Israel's strikes on Iran have exposed more than military vulnerabilities—they've revealed the deadly consequences of Iran's religious zealotry. Drawing parallels with the biblical spies in Parshat Shlach and the doomed sectarians of Qumran, Rabbi Dunner explores how absolutist ideology—whether ancient or modern—is not the path to purity or righteousness, but rather to chaos and ruin.

Rabbi Dunner draws a haunting parallel between the leadership failures of 1914 and the Torah's model of inspired, grassroots leadership, as found in Behaalotecha. From Edward Grey to Jean Jaurès to modern-day prophetic voices, he reminds us that true leaders empower others — and that ignoring the wisdom of those who know, from among the people, always leads to disaster.

In Gaza, Israel and America are upending the usual script, delivering food aid directly to the people and bypassing Hamas's stranglehold. Yet the critics howl: “You're weaponizing aid!” “You're manipulating hunger!” Rabbi Dunner cites Parshat Nasso, where the nazir is described as breaking away from the crowd, refusing to play along. Sometimes doing what's right—like feeding the hungry—means going against the mob.

Davis, CA, may look like a quiet, tree-lined college town — but beneath the surface lies a toxic brew of antisemitism and radical activism. In this firsthand account, Rabbi Dunner shares what he saw and heard during his visit to Davis — and what every Jew needs to understand about what's really happening on American campuses. Bamidbar's lessons have never been more urgent.

Why does the Torah fall silent for 38 years in the middle of Sefer Bamidbar? Rabbi Dunner explores this narrative mystery through classic commentaries, Midrashim, and the insights of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks. Discover how silence itself can speak volumes—and how a generation's quiet transformation shaped the future of the Jewish people. Sometimes, the missing years tell the deepest story.

Two young Israeli diplomats were murdered in Washington, DC—targeted simply for being Jewish. Rabbi Dunner calls out the moral bankruptcy of those still defending anti-Israel hate and draws strength from Parshat Bechukotai. This is a time for clarity, courage, and faith—not fear. The Jewish people have been here before. With God's help, we will endure.

What if the land you live on isn't just dirt—but a partner in your destiny? In Parshat Bechukotai, we discover that Eretz Yisrael responds to the moral and spiritual state of its people. Join Rabbi Dunner for a powerful journey through blessings, rebuke, Rav Kook, the Chazon Ish, and the land that never forgets.

In the wake of President Trump's landmark visit to the Gulf, the illusion of Arab unity may finally be crumbling. From multi billion-dollar deals to diplomatic realignments, the Middle East is moving on from outdated identities. Rabbi Dunner explores this seismic shift—through politics, history, and Parshat Emor's deeper lesson about letting go of pre-set identities and embracing a better future.

What do Speaker Mike Johnson's pocketful of pebbles from the Valley of Elah and Senator Cory Booker's emotional words about Joseph the dreamer have in common? In this powerful and personal reflection, Rabbi Dunner shares what happened when 300 rabbis and pastors came to Washington—and how Parshat Kedoshim reveals the secret to bringing holiness into the halls of power.

What if dreams aren't fantasies, but glimpses of the future? Rabbi Dunner explores J.W. Dunne's startling theory of “Serial Time,” Herzl's visionary Zionism, and the prophetic message of Elisha. In a world that's ever more cynical, argues Rabbi Dunner, it's time to reclaim the power of belief — because sometimes, seeing isn't believing… believing is seeing.

Rabbi Dunner reflects on his family's miraculous survival during the Holocaust and draws a powerful parallel to today's world, where every Jew is a survivor — especially after October 7th. In this stirring piece, he urges us to recognize our responsibility: survival isn't just luck, it's a calling. We are all survivors — and we all have work to do.

A visit to the ruins of Shiloh and an ascent onto Temple Mount reveals a powerful truth for Rabbi Dunner: Jewish history isn't just about the past—it's a living legacy. In this stirring reflection on Parshat Shemini, Rabbi Dunner explores how ancient sites and sacred moments continue to shape our destiny, if only we choose to act, not just remember.

Why did Nadav and Avihu die? On the holiest day, in the holiest place, they brought an unauthorized fire—and were consumed by God's fire. Were they arrogant? Were they drunk? Were they idealists? Rabbi Dunner's shiur on Parshat Shemini explores the conflicting views of Chazal and the commentaries, the deeper message behind their deaths, and what Rav Kook's response to the “strange fire” of modernity can teach us about leadership and humility today.

Zionist pioneer Nachum Sokolow secured support for a Jewish State from the Vatican—with nothing but words. Today, you too can support the Jewish State—with your vote. As Pesach approaches, the WZO election gives every Jew a voice in shaping Israel's future. Our story didn't end with the Exodus—and it won't end now. Vote. Because our destiny—and Israel's—still matters. To vote in the WZO elections, use this link: https://www.votezoacoalition.org/

What happens when keeping strict halacha on Pesach becomes difficult — in war, under tyranny, or during spiritual crisis? From Roman legionaries to Soviet Jews, from Napoleon's soldiers to early pioneers in Eretz Yisrael, Rabbi Dunner explores the challenges — and the halachic courage and compassion that have kept Jews connected to their heritage through Pesach, even when matzah was scarce.

When a handwritten note was found in the backpack of IDF soldier Hillel Nehemiah Ofen after hedied in training, its opening words—“Ani Shayach”—echoed louder than any headline. In Parshat Pekudei, we're reminded that true belonging isn't accidental. It's built, soul by soul. Rabbi Dunner reflects on connection, identity, and the sacred spaces we create together

What do a bashful patent clerk named Albert Einstein, Apple's Tim Cook, and a tiny letter in the Torah have in common? Rabbi Dunner connects the dots in this sharply observed reflection on humility, greatness, and why Moshe Rabbeinu made the first aleph in Vayikra so small. Spoiler alert: really great people don't need to yell to make history.

Rabbi Dunner explores Thomas Jefferson's passion for architecture and how his iconic home, Monticello, reflects the ideals of design and purpose. Drawing a parallel to the Mishkan in Parshat Vayakhel, he shows how built spaces — whether Monticello, the Mishkan, or the Temple in Jerusalem — were crafted to elevate the human spirit and create a lasting connection to the divine.

Rabbi Dunner explores the transformative power of community through the lens of Parshat Vayakhel. From the unified effort to build the Mishkan to the pivotal role of women in spiritual renewal, he uncovers timeless lessons on collaboration and purpose — culminating in the inspiring story of Sarah Schenirer, a modern-day architect of holiness, healing, and communal strength.

New York learned the hard way what happens when essential systems break down—once when the city drowned in garbage, and once when it plunged into darkness. Rabbi Dunner explores the eerie parallels between these moments of chaos in New York and the episode of the Golden Calf in Parshat Ki Tissa. What happens when leadership vanishes and order collapses? And why does it always take a crisis to realize what truly holds civilization together?

Join Rabbi Dunner for an eye-opening deep dive into the comedy of Tanach and Talmud! From Eliyahu Hanavi roasting the prophets of Baal to Ehud's slapstick assassination of King Eglon, discover how humor, satire, and sarcasm are woven into Jewish tradition—not just for laughs, but for education and survival. Prepare to see Purim like never before.

Self-driving cars, hospital diagnosis algorithms, and AI-controlled weapons—machines are making more decisions than ever. But can AI ever truly replace human judgment? Rabbi Dunner explores this question through the ancient lens of the Urim VeTummim, the Torah's own decision-making tool. What does the Urim VeTummim teach us about the limits of non-human guidance? Why must some decisions always remain in human hands?

Universities were once bastions of knowledge and debate, but at Barnard College, masked agitators turned hallowed halls into arenas of intimidation. With drums, slogans, and violence, they demanded immunity for disrupting classes—while weak-willed administrators caved. When mob rule replaces reason, and expediency trumps principle, society suffers.Rabbi Dunner exposes the rot undermining our temples of learning and the urgent need for us to reclaim them.

Hamas's latest act of depravity wasn't about returning hostage remains—it was a grotesque spectacle of cruelty designed to inflict maximum pain. Rabbi Dunner contrasts radical Islam's disregard for human life with Judaism's deep commitment to human dignity. The time for moral clarity is now.

True kindness isn't just about giving—it's about giving without taking away dignity. In this powerful and thought-provoking shiur, Rabbi Dunner explores the Torah's approach to tzedakah, revealing why an interest-free loan is the highest form of charity. With insights from Rabbi Sacks, Chassidic masters, and Mussar giants, this shiur will change the way you think about generosity, power, and responsibility.

Rabbi Dunner explores what it truly means to be “People of the Book,” reflecting on the Torah's timeless mission to elevate and enlighten. Using the recent arrests of two East Jerusalem booksellers accused of incitement, he contrasts the Jewish commitment to using books for good with the misuse of books as tools of hatred. A compelling call to uphold the sacred power of the written word in a world where it's often weaponized.

Join Rabbi Dunner for a fascinating Tu Bishvat shiur exploring the deeper meaning behind the Sheva Minim—the seven species that symbolize Eretz Yisrael's bounty. Discover how wheat, barley, grapes, figs, pomegranates, olives, and dates represent profound spiritual lessons about identity, resilience, joy, and growth. Through Torah insights, mystical teachings, and practical reflections, Rabbi Dunner will deepen your appreciation for Tu Bishvat and the timeless values rooted in these sacred fruits and grains.

Rabbi Dunner dives into the explosive proposal unveiled by President Trump unveiled —an audacious vision for Gaza that has the world reeling. But is it really so radical? Rabbi Dunner explores Gaza's deep Jewish roots, the prophetic warnings of its downfall, and the echoes of Samson's final act. As history unfolds before our eyes, is this the moment to reclaim Gaza's destiny?

It's the most triumphant song in Jewish history—but hidden within Az Yashir in Parshat Beshalach are mysteries waiting to be unlocked. Why is the song written in a unique structure? Why does Moshe sing in the future tense? Why does Hashem remain silent in the face of evil? And what does Mi Kamocha Ba'eilim Hashem really mean? Join Rabbi Dunner as he uncovers the depth, drama, and destiny embedded in Shirat HaYam.

For nearly eight decades, the house next door to Auschwitz—the former home of Nazi commandant Rudolf Höss—stood untouched, a silent witness to history's darkest crimes. Now, thanks to Ambassador Mark D. Wallace, Elliott Broidy, and Dr. Thomas Kaplan, it is being transformed into a global center for combating antisemitism and extremism. Rabbi Pini Dunner explores how this initiative ensures history's lessons are neither distorted nor forgotten in an era of rising Jew-hatred.

Rabbi Dunner explores the transformative power of renewal in this shiur on Parshat Bo. Why was the very first mitzvah given to the Jewish people the sanctification of the new moon? What does it teach us about time, destiny, and second chances? And how does the two-day Yom Tov tradition serve as a powerful reminder of what we once had—and what we can reclaim?

When religious leaders trade faith for politics, they don't just lose credibility—they risk losing the very soul of what they are meant to represent. Rabbi Pini Dunner takes on Bishop Mariann Budde's politically charged sermon at the National Cathedral, exposing a deeper trend within the Episcopal Church. From anti-Israel activism to clergy who reject God outright, what happens when religion is no longer about faith—but about woke activism?

Hamas calls every war a “victory,” no matter how much devastation they suffer. This time is no different—celebrations erupted in Gaza even as the rubble settled. But history tells a different story. In Shemot, Pharaoh refused to admit defeat, convinced that his defiance was power. In the end, he stood alone, and witnessed the wreckage of his own making. Rabbi Dunner shows how Hamas is following the same doomed path.

As wildfires rage across Los Angeles County, leaving devastation and despair in their wake, one question looms: Why weren't we better prepared? Rabbi Dunner examines the failure of California's leadership to address predictable disasters and contrasts it with the timeless wisdom of Jacob in Parshat Vayechi. Discover how Jacob's guidance to his children can inspire effective leadership in the face of modern crises.

Rabbi Dunner draws a fascinating parallel between Joseph's dramatic reconciliation with his brothers in Parshat Vayigash and post-World War II leadership. True leadership balances toughness with vision—turning enemies into allies rather than crushing them. With insights from Ramban and Sforno, Rabbi Dunner unpacks Joseph's strategy of redemption over revenge, showing that the best way to win is making sure everyone shares in the victory.

Rabbi Dunner delves into the vexed legacy of the late Jimmy Carter—a decent man but a disastrous president. Carter's well-meaning idealism often veered into dangerous naivety, enabling evil to flourish. From abandoning the Shah of Iran and empowering radical Islamists to legitimizing Hamas and labeling Israel as an “Apartheid” state, Carter's self-proclaimed moral posturing left the world far more dangerous. Rabbi Dunner pulls no punches in this sharp, detailed look at Jimmy Carter's self-important and deeply flawed outlook.

In this gripping shiur, Rabbi Dunner delves into the dramatic story of Chanukah. Drawing from Maccabees I and II, Josephus, and the Talmud, he unpacks the Jewish rebellion against Antiochus IV, the Maccabees' daring victories, and the miracle of the oil that defied logic. With insights into faith, resilience, and identity, Rabbi Dunner reveals why Chazal shifted the focus from swords to light—and what Chanukah teaches us about survival and hope today.

Poland's threat to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu if he attends the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz is a disgraceful insult—not just to Netanyahu, but to Jews everywhere. Rabbi Dunner denounces the move as political hypocrisy and a betrayal of Holocaust memory. Drawing on the bravery of the Maccabees, he challenges Netanyahu to defy the threats, stand tall in Auschwitz, and remind the world that the Jewish people will never bow to humiliation again.

Israel's decision to close its embassy in Ireland underscores a troubling history of disproportionate criticism and hostility toward the Jewish state. From Éamon de Valera's infamous actions during World War II to modern legislation targeting Israel, Ireland has consistently singled out Jews and Israel for condemnation while ignoring far graver injustices worldwide. Rabbi Dunner delves into the historical and biblical roots of antisemitism, drawing timeless lessons from Yosef's story in Parshat Vayeishev.

In this captivating shiur on Parshat Vayeishev, Rabbi Dunner explores the unique role of Yosef, the dreamer who bridges the gap between the patriarchs and the tribes of Israel. Through Yosef's trials, leadership, and ultimate reconciliation with his brothers, we uncover profound lessons about the balance between engaging with the world and preserving our spiritual identity. Discover how Yosef's story shapes the redemptive visions of Mashiach ben Yosef and Mashiach ben David.

Bashar al-Assad's dramatic fall this week mirrors the fates of countless despots whose fleeting power left only ruins behind. From the erratic Al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah to the complacent Al-Musta'sim, and even the tragic Boabdil of Granada, history is strewn with leaders who seemed mighty but were ultimately forgotten. Rabbi Dunner delves into the Torah's portrayal of Esav's descendants to uncover a profound lesson about the nature of power, the emptiness of tyranny, and what truly endures.

What's the deal with Yaakov's mysterious midnight wrestling match? A man, an angel, Esav's guardian spirit—who was it, and why did the epic struggle end with Yaakov limping and renamed Yisrael? Rabbi Dunner's shiur dives into one of the Torah's most puzzling encounters, unraveling layers of meaning with insights from the Ramban, Maharal, the Izhbitzer, and others. Discover how this bizarre struggle wasn't just a fight but a transformative moment for Yaakov—and for the Jewish people, a timeless lesson in resilience, faith, and triumph.

Ants embody the power of adaptability and collective responsibility, offering timeless lessons for human behavior. Rabbi Dunner explores the wisdom of Proverbs and the Talmud, drawing parallels to the challenges facing Israel's Haredi community. With insights from Jacob's journey in Parshat Vayeitzei, he argues for individual initiative and embracing change without compromising tradition, highlighting how adaptability and shared purpose can ensure a thriving future for the Haredi world and all of Klal Yisrael.

Struggling to find your purpose? Rabbi Dunner dives into Parshat Toldot and the timeless lessons of Yaakov and Esav. Discover why some people seem destined for greatness while others wrestle with inner conflict. Learn how modern psychology supports ancient Torah insights. With humor, clever insights, inspiring stories, and a fresh take on self-help, this shiur will leave you with practical tools to align your individuality with your legacy.

Rabbi Dunner explores the timeless allure of greed and duplicity through captivating stories of history's greatest con artists. From Gregor MacGregor's mythical paradise to Sarah Howe's hollow promises and James Reavis's fabricated aristocracy, these tales of audacious fraud echo the Torah's account of Ephron the Hittite in Chayei Sarah. Drawing powerful lessons from Abraham's integrity, Rabbi Dunner reminds us that honesty and enduring values always triumph over fleeting gains.

Rabbi Dunner delves into the timeless story of Eliezer's search for Yitzchak's wife, and Rivka's remarkable entrance into the story of the Jewish people in Parshat Chayei Sarah. Discover how this ancient tale speaks to today's “shidduch crisis” and the challenges of finding meaningful relationships. Through Torah insights, Midrash, and contemporary takeaways, Rabbi Dunner explores Rivka's kindness, courage, and decisiveness, offering inspiration for singles, families, and anyone navigating life's big decisions.

In a world where misplaced compassion can embolden evil, Rabbi Dunner explores the harsh but essential lesson from Parshat Vayeira: not all causes are worthy of mercy. Reflecting on historical examples like Sir Winston Churchill and General William T. Sherman, Rabbi Dunner draws powerful parallels to Israel's current struggle against Hamas and Iran. While compassion is important—it has its limits.

Rabbi Dunner delves into Avraham's unexpected test upon arriving in Canaan—facing a famine in the very land God promised him. Why would God introduce this obstacle right at the start of Avraham's journey? With insights from Rashi, Ramban, Rav Hirsch, and Rav Dessler, Rabbi Dunner explores how challenges often conceal deeper lessons of faith and resilience.

Rabbi Dunner reflects on the lessons of principled leadership following the recent election. Drawing on examples from history and the Torah, he explores how true leaders exercise restraint and magnanimity in victory, using their power not for retribution but to foster unity and healing. Through the stories of William the Conqueror, Emperor Meiji, President Lincoln, and the patriarch Abraham, Rabbi Dunner highlights the timeless power of humility and ethical clarity in shaping a lasting legacy.

Join Rabbi Dunner as he dives into one of the Torah's most mysterious stories—the Tower of Babel. What really went wrong with humanity's grand plan to reach the heavens? Was it rebellion, fear, or a misguided quest for unity? With insights from Rashi, Midrash, Abarbanel, the Haamek Davar, and the Dubno Maggid, this shiur explores the clash between human ambition and divine purpose.

Rabbi Dunner explores the Overton Window and its lessons through the Torah's stories of Noah and the Tower of Babel. By examining societies that pushed boundaries too far, we uncover the chaos that ensues when the unthinkable becomes acceptable. From moral decay to unrestrained ambition, Parshat Noach offers powerful warnings about the risks of shifting societal norms without restraint.