The Transformative Daf

They say that a small hole in the body is a large hole in the soul. Today we learn why in our tradition our bodies are considered so holy.

When you make a spontaneous prayer, what's the first thing you say to God? What's your final thought? Today we learn that prayer has three integral elements: praise, ask, thanks.

How many shidduchim have you made? How many singles are on your list to assist right now? Today we learn the importance of getting involved in God's primary occupation and the very first mitzvah to humankind.

Who should suffer more the righteous or the wicked? Should the righteous suffer on behalf of the wicked? Today we learn that the righteous view challenge and pain in this world as a privilege.

Have you ever lent out an item and received it back in poor condition? How bad was it? What did you say to the borrower? Today we learn that we must treat others' property as well as our own, if not better.

What's the dollar value of a mitzvah? Which would you rather: a mitzvah or a diamond? Today we learn the value of diamonds in the World of Truth.

How many interest-free loans do you currently have outstanding? How do you feel about the pruzbul “loop-hole”? Today we ask how many people actually lend interest-free to begin with, let alone stop lending in the sixth year!

What are some ways you avoid answering back when someone insults you? Today we learn that just like the sun doesn't get angry when people curse out the hot days, you too must stay focused knowing that you're here to serve the greater good.

Have you ever sent an email in the heat of the moment you just wish you could take back? Today we learn that when you're about to act impetuously and irresponsibly, you need to switch to some other activity until your heart and mind have calmed down and you're able to respond rationally.

What motivates a religious man to use God as a tool in his divorce kit as he withholds the gett? Today we learn that while we are all human and prone to improper conduct, we must never drag God into the fight.

Why do birds fly south? Why do we say they fly south when they eventually also fly north? Today we learn that birds protect us and never question God when He sweeps them away from their natural habitat. Ultimately, they realize that God is carrying them to a better place.

How much FEAR OF GOD should you instill in your children? Today we learn that parents give their children wings to bring their mitzvos to heaven. Mother gives the love and father gives the fear. But each must give the right amount. Otherwise the mitzvah bird will be lopsided. (li”n Joar bat Yehuda)

How would you react if you found a piece of hair or a fly in your soup? Today we learn to avoid letting tiny disturbances ruin our relationships.

Do chemistry and attraction make any sense? Should rationalists believe in such superstitious magic? Today we learn that chemistry is a gift from Heaven to help you identify your spouse.

How do you make your guests feel welcome when they arrive? How do you accompany them when they leave? Today we learn that the true test of love and care is accompanying your guests even after the novelty has worn off.

May one donate one's organs? Should one donate one's organs? Today we learn that it all depends on where life begins and where life ends.

Should all kids finish school at 18? Or should we allow kids to finish at their own pace, some quicker, some slower? Today we learn that the current western cultural norms do not align with our Torah needs.

Does wearing a head covering feel like an honor or a hassle? Today we learn that tzitzis aren't a hassle, they're a tassle. And upon your reflection, the kippah grants protection.

If you were to describe the Shema in one word, what would that be? Powerful? Awesome? Enigmatic? Today we learn that the key word is PROTECTIVE.

Will FLATTERY get you ANYWHERE or NOWHERE? Today we learn that false flattery is an excuse for not taking the time to appreciate the other person's true qualities.

How much does someone need to do for you to warrant an expression of gratitude? Today we learn that each of us naturally sits somewhere different along the appreciation spectrum. Like all character traits, we must constantly strive to improve our attitude of gratitude and learn to thank people for even the tiniest nice gestures they do for us.

How do you keep yourself busy during the Torah reading? Today we learn that even Torah can be a distraction from Torah!

Why do people envy others? What's the meaning of having a good eye? Today we learn that the key to rid yourself of jealousy is to think in terms of absolute prosperity instead of relative prosperity. When that's your mindset, you won't envy your neighbor's success, you'll rejoice!

Have you ever dreamed of life as a princess or prince? Today we learn that you ARE a child of the Supreme King of Kings, making you a supreme prince or princess. Are you living up to the expectations of your exalted position?

Why should you never cast stones up at God when you feel He's let you down? Today we learn that those who cast stones at Heaven are only making things more difficult for themselves. Sadly, thanks to Newton, those rocks end up landing back on your head. Life is filled with ups and downs, but Hashem is always in control.

When things aren't going well in your life, do you ask God for a sign He's still in control? Today we learn that “emunah” means recognizing all the signs He's already given you, all the blessings and good times in your life!

Is it better to pray in Hebrew or a language you understand? Today we learn the importance of praying in the original. If you're not there yet, it's something you must strive to attain!

What's one obvious way to identify a haughty person? Today we learn that arrogant people get upset at the smallest irritations. When you realize that God fills the universe, there's never any reason to lose your cool.

Why do we wash our hands before eating bread? Today we learn that netilas yodayim is a reminder to step out of our mundane lives and prepare ourselves to sanctify the world.  

What's the opposite of anger in a relationship? Today we learn that some people think the opposite of blowing up in anger is to respond with passive aggression. No, the antidote to anger is generosity.  

Have you ever had a brilliant idea and then found out that someone beat you to the punch? Today we learn that one should never be deterred by another person's success. The challenge is to build upon their successes!

Have you ever wished you could eradicate your temptation for a certain desire? Today we learn that desires are what fuels our ability to live and function in this world. We don't seek to destroy them, but to transform them!

Do you feel held-back in life and limited by the choices offered to you based on your background and upbringing? Today we learn that you have the ability to rise even higher than those born with a silver spoon in their mouths!

Have you ever wondered what can my one little mitzvah accomplish? Today we learn that it may be the one mitzvah that tips the scales and transforms the universe.

Is the mitzvah of modesty incumbent upon the wearer or on the gazer? Today we learn that while we should all strive to dress modestly, we must also do our best to avoid situations where our eyes may go astray.

What do you carry with you to remind yourself that this world is merely a corridor for the eternal life? Today we learn that constant reminders ensure that nothing in life gets us down. After all, this world is just the prep room!

When you're feeling kind of blah how do you get yourself reenergized? If you're not in the mood to do a mitzvah, how should you move forward? Today we learn that the moment you touch purity, you'll find your entire being recharged and reinvigorated.

Why does the Hadran say ‘we toil & get reward, they toil & don't? Do you know what Messi makes? Today we learn that most athletes get paid nothing for all their efforts.

How do you avoid becoming enmeshed in complicated life dramas? Today we learn to KISS – Keep It Simple, Schlemiel.

How rich am I? Today we learn that asking that question will never produce satisfaction with what you have. The right question is: How poor am I? Compared to most of the world, the answer is not poor at all.

Remember how you felt after summer camp as a kid? Or after gap-year in Israel? How do you keep the energy flowing today? Today we learn about the importance of finding regular and special ways to keep you soul refreshed and alive, such as inspirational classes and retreats.

Do you have superhero powers? Ever dreamed of having the Midas Touch? Today we learn that your superhero powers are far greater!

Do you suffer from Bentchaphobia? (Make sure the bread's mezonos!) Or Fleishiphobia? (Pizza in 6 hrs!) Today we learn that bentching isn't a curse. It's a blessing!

What's the difference between anniversary date night and regular date night? Do you discuss different things? Today we learn that your anniversary is the annual occasion to reminisce about how you met, courted, and chose your spouse!

How can you tell if someone is internally beautiful? Should you judge a person based on red flags? Today we learn that while flags may not be the only determinant, they're helpful in assessing another person's character and should never be ignored.