Podcasts about yitzchak

Join as we discuss the bridges Yitzchak built. Send any questions, comments, or critiques to podcasts@torahinmotion.orgIf you would like to partner with us to create more thoughtful and accessible jewish content, visit torahinmotion.org/donate, or email us at info@torahinmotion.org.You can find more thoughtful Jewish content at torahinmotion.org 

Rabbi Feiner shiurim

Join Rabbi Joey Rosenfeld as he guides us through the world and major works of Kabbalah, Hasidic masters, and Jewish philosophy, shedding light on the inner life of the soul. To learn more, visit InwardTorah.org

Today, we discuss the attitude of Esav vs. the attitude of his brother (Yaakov) and parents (Yitzchak and Rivka). We talk about the importance of seeing each day as an opportunity to further and deepen our connection with the Master of the Universe. Check it out to discover a beautiful story about Rav Yisroel Salanter and the shoemaker who was up late at night.My book on Chanukah -- DOVE TALES (VAYISHALACH ES HAYONAH) -- is NOW AVAILABLE on Amazon: https://a.co/d/7BzCpaBSubscribe and hit the bell to see new videos!!!#Rabbi #LearnTorah #TorahStudy #Judaism #Jewish #Torah  #Chumash #Parasha #Parsha #Parashat #Gemara #Mussar #Tefilla #Prayer

In this shiur, delivered in Tomer Devorah, Rav Burg explains why Yitzchak loved Eisav. The hunter is always hunting new game. When Yaakov combines the power of new with the power of old he becomes worthy of the berachos of Yitzchak.

In this week's Parsha Rabbi Kohn looks at the story of Jacob stealing the blessings from Esav. How he listened to the plan thought of by his mother Rivka to "deceive" Yitzchak. What was Rivka thinking? What was her true intent? What is the message for us? He also gives over a powerful lesson on being careful with the feelings of others even when you are in the "right". Subscribe to The Practical Parsha Podcast. For questions or comments please email RabbiShlomoKohn@gmail.com. To listen to Rabbi Kohn's other podcast use this link- the-pirkei-avos-podcast.castos.com/  If you would like to support this podcast please use this secure link to donate: SUPPORT THE PODCAST Chapters (00:00:00) - Parshas Parshas(00:02:01) - The Parasha(00:06:23) - The Characteristics of Yaakov and Esav(00:10:38) - Stealing the Brachos from Esav(00:15:45) - Parsha 3, The Deception of Esav(00:18:33) - Parsha 5: Because Yaakov Stole the Blessings

The reason Yitzchak loved EsavThe mitzva of giving maaserHow to get our enemies too make peace with us

In this morning's class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath dove into one of the strangest, most beautiful marriage scenes in the entire Torah, Yitzchak and Rivkah caught “jesting” behind a window. Why does the Torah use a word for laughter to describe intimacy? Why is the first Jew born into the covenant literally named “He Will Laugh”? And why does Rivkah's name hint to a yoke of oxen, two forces pulling together toward transformation?Using Rashi, Midrash, Zohar, and the Alter Rebbe's revolutionary maamar from 5569, we uncovered a powerful Chassidic idea: Laughter is born from contradiction. From the unexpected. From two worlds that shouldn't fitand yet somehow do. That's the secret of Yitzchak and Rivkah. That's the secret of humanity. And that's the secret of marriage.Today's class explored how two people with different histories, tendencies, wounds, and temperaments can build something eternal… precisely because of their differences. When we choose holiness over instinct, love over ego, repair over distance, Heaven itself, the Alter Rebbe says, “laughs with delight.” Marriage, it turns out, is the ultimate divine joke. And our job is to embrace the punchline.TAKEAWAYSLaughter = TransformationThe Alter Rebbe teaches that laughter is triggered when reality breaks its own rules. When a human transcends instinct choosing holiness over ego that is the greatest “cosmic joke.”Yitzchak's Name Isn't Cute … It's His Mission“He will laugh” means the whole purpose of Jewish life is rising above our programmed nature. This is why the Torah uses metzachek: intimacy is the fusion of two worlds that shouldn't naturally fit.Rivkah Is the Model of Human GreatnessRaised in corruption, she becomes a “rose among thorns.” She is proof that background does not define destiny. She is the surprise that makes Heaven smile.Marriage Thrives on Differences, Not SamenessThe clash, the contrast, the contradictions—these are not obstacles. They are the very material through which G-d's laughter emerges. The greatest holiness comes from uniting opposites.Every Conflict Is an InvitationWhen your instinct says defend, and you choose softness… When your body says withdraw, and you choose connection… When your ego wants to be right, and you choose to be kind… That is holy laughter. That is Yitzchak.This Is Why Avimelech KnewOnly husband and wife can create the kind of oneness that blends two spiritual worlds into something new. That oneness is holiness. That holiness is laughter.#Kabbalah #Torah #chassidus #Bible #BibleStudy #chassidut #kabala #Spiritual #spiritualgrowth #yitzchak #rivkah #ParshatToldot #parshastoldos #opposites #oppositesattract #marriage #intimacy Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

Toldot | The Gerar Conundrum, by Rav Yitzchak Etshalom What happened during Yitzchak and Rivka's twenty years of childlessness?  In reading through the presentation of Yitzchak's life in Parashat Toldot, there seems to be a disconnect between the opening narratives of the birth and early years of Yaakov and Esav, and the subsequent narrative cycle of Yitzchak and Rivka in Gerar (chapter 26:1-33). We propose what at first seems to be a revolutionary explanation for the puzzles this sequencing raises - but, on further reflection, note that it is built upon an approach that is well-anchored in rabbinic sources. Source sheet >>

Send us a textIn this morning's class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath dove into one of the strangest, most beautiful marriage scenes in the entire Torah, Yitzchak and Rivkah caught “jesting” behind a window. Why does the Torah use a word for laughter to describe intimacy? Why is the first Jew born into the covenant literally named “He Will Laugh”? And why does Rivkah's name hint to a yoke of oxen, two forces pulling together toward transformation?Using Rashi, Midrash, Zohar, and the Alter Rebbe's revolutionary maamar from 5569, we uncovered a powerful Chassidic idea: Laughter is born from contradiction. From the unexpected. From two worlds that shouldn't fitand yet somehow do. That's the secret of Yitzchak and Rivkah. That's the secret of humanity. And that's the secret of marriage.Today's class explored how two people with different histories, tendencies, wounds, and temperaments can build something eternal… precisely because of their differences. When we choose holiness over instinct, love over ego, repair over distance, Heaven itself, the Alter Rebbe says, “laughs with delight.” Marriage, it turns out, is the ultimate divine joke. And our job is to embrace the punchline.TAKEAWAYSLaughter = TransformationThe Alter Rebbe teaches that laughter is triggered when reality breaks its own rules. When a human transcends instinct choosing holiness over ego that is the greatest “cosmic joke.”Yitzchak's Name Isn't Cute … It's His Mission“He will laugh” means the whole purpose of Jewish life is rising above our programmed nature. This is why the Torah uses metzachek: intimacy is the fusion of two worlds that shouldn't naturally fit.Rivkah Is the Model of Human GreatnessRaised in corruption, she becomes a “rose among thorns.” She is proof that background does not define destiny. She is the surprise that makes Heaven smile.Marriage Thrives on Differences, Not SamenessThe clash, the contrast, the contradictions—these are not obstacles. They are the very material through which G-d's laughter emerges. The greatest holiness comes from uniting opposites.Every Conflict Is an InvitationWhen your instinct says defend, and you choose softness… When your body says withdraw, and you choose connection… When your ego wants to be right, and you choose to be kind… That is holy laughter. That is Yitzchak.This Is Why Avimelech KnewOnly husband and wife can create the kind of oneness that blends two spiritual worlds into something new. That oneness is holiness. That holiness is laughter.#Kabbalah #Torah #chassidus #Bible #BibleStudy #chassidut #kabala #Spiritual #spiritualgrowth #yitzchak #rivkah #ParshatToldot #parshastoldos #opposites #oppositesattract #marriage #intimacy Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

Rabbi Feiner shiurim

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Raphael Polisuk explore Parshat Toldot through the lens of prayer, blessing, and the extraordinary power of human speech. They discuss Yitzchak's deeply active model of prayer—la'ator, a language of turning reality—and how the rabbis imagine his tefillah transforming both himself and God. The episode then turns to the drama of the blessings, asking why words matter so profoundly in Torah and how language can create, heal, or harm.

The special qualities of Yitzchak are inherited by every Jew, granting them the ability to be unintimidated by the world and to successfully integrate transcendent spirituality into time and space. This explains the deeper significance of Yitzchak going to Gan Eden before his wedding, demonstrating the necessity of spiritual integration through self-nullification. The custom for a groom to receive Rabbinic ordination before marriage reveals how the eternal foundation of a home must be based on absolute Torah law. The necessity of Yaakov taking the blessings through cunning. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Toldos in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1. Happy Birthday for:Feiga Esther bas RivkahChaya Mushka bas Feiga Esther In honor of the yahrzeit of:Chaya Feiga bas Yitzchak Yaakov HaLevidedicated by her sister

Two distinct approaches in explaining the juxtaposition of akeidas Yitzchak and the passing of Sarah

Rabbi Feiner shiurim

Yaakov acquires claim to Israel through purchase, a sale subsequently resented by the seller. Sounds like Jewish History in Israel 1880-1948https://thechesedfund.com/rabbikatz/support-rabbi-katzz-podcast

Session 250 of the Land of Israel Fellowship – Chayei Sarah, Faith in Trials & The Struggle for Peace In this week's fellowship, Ari Abramowitz and Jeremy Gimpel dive deep into the Torah portion of Chayei Sarah, exploring its timeless teachings and urgent relevance to the challenges we face in the world today. Ari and Jeremy unpack the story of the death of Sarah, revealing how this moment became yet another profound test for Avraham—a test of faith, resilience, and vision for the future of Israel. We explore how these ancient lessons speak directly to modern times, offering clarity and inspiration for anyone seeking truth, meaning, and connection to the Land of Israel. This session also features a heartfelt dvar Torah by Tehila Gimpel, who illuminates the dramatic relationships between Avraham, Yitzchak, Avimelech, and the wells they fought to preserve. Her insights draw clear parallels between these biblical struggles and the realities we face today as we fight for peace, identity, and spiritual grounding in a turbulent world. If you're seeking uplifting Torah wisdom, Israel-centered inspiration, and teachings that bridge the ancient and the modern, this episode will deeply speak to you. Keywords: Land of Israel Fellowship, Torah portion Chayei Sarah, Ari Abramowitz, Jeremy Gimpel, Tehila Gimpel, dvar Torah, Avraham and Sarah, Isaac and Avimelech, biblical wells, Israel teachings, Jewish inspiration, Torah podcast, faith and trials, modern day Israel, Chayei Sarah insights, Jewish study, Israel spirituality.

MyLife Chassidus Applied: Where YOUR questions are answeredDonate now: https://mylife500.comFor recording visit the archive page or your favorite podcast carrier.Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Shluchim conference • Why did the Rebbe institute the annual Kinus HaShluchim? • What can we all learn from it? • What is the meaning of shlichus? • How did the Rebbe connect the shluchim to the weekly Torah portion? • Who was the first shliach in the Torah? Toldos • What lessons do we learn from living with the times, with this week's Torah parsha? • How could – and why did – Jacob behave deceptively? • Was there anything redeeming about Esau? • Is tiferes an attribute of its own, or is it an outgrowth of chesed and gevurah? Rebbe Rashab – follow-up • Can you begin teaching a new series of classes in the Rebbe Rashab's chassidus? • Is there a way to figure out what the conclusion of Hemshech Ayin Beis may have been? • How about the answers to the questions in the beginning of Ayin Beis about the two crowns? Chayei Sarah – follow-up • What does the union of “mah” and “ban” mean in context of the marriage of Yitchak and Rivkah? • Was Rivkah three years old when she married Yitzchak? • Why don't we know more details about the other children of Abraham? • Why was Yitzchak named after Sarah's laughter? Rosh Chodesh Kislev • What should our focus be during this month? • What new ideas and activities did the Rebbe begin after Rosh Chodesh Kislev 5738? • New York Under Mamdani – follow-up Protesting Mandatory Military Service for Yeshiva Students • How could you criticize these protests organized by Torah leaders and devout Jews?

Harav Yussie Zakutinsky Shlita

But Yitzchak wasn't Shechted?Source Sheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KxhIVPFjIB0Zc1vljxAjwgfhYpoeKQLH/view?usp=share_link

Rashi and Bereishit Rabba 63:1,2- four explanations (2 from Rashi, 2 from Midrash) for the seemingly redundant emphasis that Avraham produced Yitzchak

In this shmooze, delivered at a Melava Malka Fabrengen in the Kornwasser home, Rav Burg explains how Yitzchak and Rivka loved Eisav as only a parent could. In our lives we need to see ourselves with kindness and compassion just as Yitzchak and Rivka did for Eisav.

We learn weekly from Lessons in Tanya chapter 38 about the hidden love we inherited from Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov Avinu. We all can live with Mesirus Nefesh on the Unity of Hashem. Awaken this deep part of our souls to elevate ourselves from animals to humans in all our Torah Mitzvot. We dedicated our learning to the soldiers of the past 2 years, especially Meir Shimon ben Gavriel, etc... Also, we are dedicated to the Charlie Kirk Legacy - Special Event - "Join us for a powerful occasion honoring *Charlie Kirk*'s memory - Israel, the Sabbath, & Freedom - Official Video - https://youtube.com/live/LE_l1S1kNAA?feature=shareThe evening will feature an in-depth interview with P. Rob McCoy, where he will share his personal journey and relationship with Charlie Kirk. Plus, hear moving personal reflections from *Nissim Black* on the meaning and impact of *Charlie Kirk*'s life and work. - ❤ Book Now #NissimBlack Booking@NissimBlack.com #unitybookings #booknow DM https://unityinspireprojects.com/musicians/ ‪@TheNissimBlackShow‬

This is part 3 of a new solo series where R' Shlomo Buxbaum explores the deeper structure of the Book of Bereishis (Genesis) and how it directly relates to our own personal journey to self-mastery.It is based on R' Shlomo's first book The 4 Elements of an Empowered Life (Mosaica Press, 2021), which uncovers a hidden thread woven throughout the book of Bereishis, showing how four themes that are deeply connected to our own life missions, are alluded to over and over again, giving us the tools to lead lives of magnificence!You can purchase the book on Amazon and wherever Jewish books are sold:⁠⁠https://a.co/d/cb9JkPW

Parshas Chayei Sarah: Courage To Begin In tribute to the fifth Yahrzeit of HaRav Ya'akov Tzvi Ben Dovid Sacks, Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Our Parsha begins with loss, love, and a new beginning. Avraham buries Sarah with dignity, then sends Eliezer to find a partner for Yitzchak. Rivkah's kindness at the well reveals her greatness, and when she enters Sarah's tent, the miracles of the first Jewish home return. Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, shows that Avraham's life ends with peace not because he finished the mission, but because he began it with courage. True fulfillment comes from taking the first step, trusting that G-d will complete what we start. In honor of Eretz Yisroel – May G-d protect our brave soldiers, comfort all who grieve, and bring healing to our nation. Dedicated in loving memory of Edward Ben Efraim, Shlomo Ben Edward, and Yirachmiel Daniel Ben Gedalia.

In this shiur, delivered in Cafe Demi in Teaneck, Rav Burg explains the inner reason that Eliezer Eved Avraham was zocheh to have kefitzas haderech on his journey to find a wife for Yitzchak.

In Parshas Chayei Sarah we discuss the topic of Chevron and the burying of Sarah. What did this loss mean for Avraham? How did he get up from his loss and move forward? We also discuss Eliezer's mission to find a wife for Yitzchak, the specifics of how this mission is described in the Torah, and what we learn from those words today.

Rabbi Feiner shiurim

The Kedushas Korban of Yitzchak (Vayeira 5786)

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chof Cheshvan What is the unique energy of this time period? Who was the Rebbe Rashab named after? What is the significance of this name, and how does it reflect the work of the Rebbe Rashab? What lessons do we learn from the Rebbe Rashab for our times? Did the Rebbe Rashab pick the souls of all the students of Tomchei Tmimim? Why did he refer to these students as soldiers going “out to a battle of the House of David”? What are practical ways to honor Chof Cheshvan? Studying the Rebbe Rashab's Chassidus Rabbi Jacobson's daily Chassidus classes What lessons do we learn from living with the times, with this week's Torah parsha? Why is the chapter that discusses Sarah's passing named “the life of Sarah”? How do we define true life? What personified Sarah's life and legacy? How can we see the evolution of Judaism through the stories of the patriarchs and matriarchs? How old was Rivka when she married Yitzchak? Why did G-d consider concealing His plan to destroy Sodom from Abraham? What was considered true justice – sparing or destroying Sodom? Why was Sarah not told about the Akeidah? Now what? Should we be running away from New York? How should we react to accidental deaths of young children, G-d forbid: Do we blame their parents? After G-d promised not to bring another flood, how do we explain the flood that just hit New York killing and hurting people? What should our attitude be towards these protests? Is it appropriate for yeshiva students to join the military? Chayei Sarah Vayeira New York City Mayor Elect Zohran Mamdani Untimely Death Protesting Mandatory Military Service for Yeshiva Students  What do you suggest I say at an upcoming Bat Mitzva of a relative?  Suggested way to celebrate a birthday: Light candles on a birthday cake instead of blowing them out 

Parshas Vayeira: Laughter of Redemption Our Parsha tells of Avraham and Sarah, who at one hundred and ninety years old, are blessed with a son, Yitzchak, “he will laugh.” The Rebbe teaches that this name, written in the future tense, reflects not laughter from disbelief, but the joy yet to come, the laughter of redemption.. In honor of Eretz Yisroel – May G-d protect our brave soldiers, comfort all who grieve, and bring healing to our nation. Dedicated in loving memory of Edward Ben Efraim, Shlomo Ben Edward, and Yirachmiel Daniel Ben Gedalia.

Rabbi Feiner shiurim

Parshat Vayeira:We're so love sick! Can I say Kaddish for my non Jewish father?! Yitzchak Avinu chilling upside down?! (P.S. this shiur is not Halacha L'maisa)

The childhood story of the Rebbe Rashab crying over his yearning for G-d's revelation provides a powerful lesson for every Jew. The lives of Avraham and Yitzchak serve as contrasting and essential paradigms for achieving our purpose in life.This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Lech Lecha in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

Don't Run from Your Mistakes: Why the First Jewish Child Was Named LaughterThis class was presented by Rabbi YY Jacobson on Tuesday, 13 Cheshvan, 5786, November 4, 2025, Parshas Vayera, at The Barn @ 84 Viola Rd. in Montebello, NY. Why would Sarah deny the truth that she laughed? The Torah says, “because she was afraid.” Afraid of whom? Why was she afraid to tell Abraham that she laughed? After all, she was 89 years old, and Sarah stood her own in the presence of Abraham. Maybe the Torah means she was scared of G-d. But that is senseless. Did she believe that you can hide from G-d? Even more strange is the response to her denial. “But He said, ‘No, you laughed indeed.’” What was this all about? A he said/she said game in the therapist’s office? She said I never laughed; he says: No you did laugh! Okay great. Now what? The biggest question is this: When this miracle child is actually born, the name he receives is Yitzchak, which means LAUGHTER! Sarah said, “God has brought me laughter; everyone who hears will laugh with me!” Strange. When Sarah hears she will have a child, she laughs. G-d gets upset over the fact that she is laughing. He confronts Abraham about her laughter. She denies it. Then Abraham, or G-d, says: No, you did laugh, Sarah! And then when the baby was born, they gave him that very name—laughter! There seems to be some strange theme unfolding here. One of the Chassidic masters, the Sefas Emes, provides a marvelous commentary. It was the moment that created the eternal and legendary Yiddishe Mamme, who will stop for nothing to protect and to believe in her children, and offer them the maternal holding, the fit of inner regulation, peace, and self-love. Cynicism undermines our feminine energy in very profound ways. It buries our trust. Our mother Sarah needed not only to avoid it, but to transform it. View Source Sheets: https://portal.theyeshiva.net/api/source-sheets/9789

B"H The name Yitzchak means “he will laugh.” The deep spiritual meaning behind that laughter, is not just humor, but holy joy:

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Mike Feuer explore Parshat Vayera through the story of the Akeidah, reframing it not as Avraham's test, but as Yitzchak's act of awareness and choice. They discuss agency, sacrifice, and what it means to go beyond one's limits in service of something greater. Drawing on Midrash and lived experience, they reflect on courage, commitment, and how moments of surrender can unlock the deepest expressions of faith and purpose.

How we can bring up the memory of the akeidat Yitzchak everyday when we daven

Avraham's journey of Lech Lecha describes the spiritual path of every soul; the lives of Yishmael and Yitzchak reveal two distinct paradigms for raising a Jewish child. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Lech Lecha in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The pasuk says that Hashem smelled the pleasing aroma of Noach's korban and then declared that He would never again destroy the world as He had done with the Mabul. The Midrash explains that Hashem not only smelled the aroma of Noach's korban, but also the aroma of the fiery furnace into which Avraham Avinu was willing to be thrown. He smelled the aroma of the furnace that Hananyah, Mishael, and Azaryah were cast into, and He smelled the aroma of all of His precious children throughout history who were willing to sacrifice their very lives for Him. We are commanded to love Hashem with all our heart, with all our soul, and with all our money. That means being willing to give up even the most precious things to us in order to show our love for Him. Every form of sacrifice is precious to Hashem. Sometimes it means enduring embarrassment. Sometimes it means giving up comforts. Sometimes it means changing our plans. Whatever it may be, Hashem cherishes every effort we make for His sake. Sometimes Hashem even makes it clear just how much He treasures those sacrifices. A Rosh Yeshivah from B'nei B'rak told me a remarkable story. When Rav Chaim Kanievsky, zatzal, was niftar, he was asked to travel to France to deliver a hesped in a shul where his father had once been the rabbi. The Rosh Yeshivah agreed — but on one condition: he never missed his daily shiur at 12:30 in the yeshivah under any circumstance. If the organizers could arrange the trip in such a way that he would not miss his shiur, he would go. They arranged a flight on Thursday afternoon, allowing him to give the hesped Thursday night and return Friday morning — since there was no shiur on Fridays, it would work. But then, another shul in France, a six-hour train ride away, called with the same request. It was a shul where his father-in-law had once been the rabbi. They asked if he could stay for Shabbat, deliver the hesped motza'ei Shabbat, and fly back Sunday morning on a 7:00 a.m. flight. He made the calculation and realized that flight would not land in Israel until around 12:30 — too late for his shiur. So he politely declined. He flew to France that Thursday without even bringing luggage, expecting to return the next morning. But then the second shul called again. This time they had worked out a plan: if he would speak motza'ei Shabbat, then drive six hours overnight to Switzerland, he could catch a 6:00 a.m. flight that would land in Israel around 11:00 a.m., giving him time to reach the yeshivah by 12:30. This would mean spending Shabbat there with no belongings, traveling six hours by train, then another six hours by car through the night — to save one hour in flight time, just so he would not miss giving one shiur. He asked his wife for permission, and she gave her blessing. Heroically, the Rosh Yeshivah delivered both hespeidim with great inspiration. When he arrived for the early flight, it was delayed by half an hour. They landed in Israel at 11:30, and by the time he reached passport control it was 11:50. He was in the foreign passport line with about 50 people ahead of him. After all his sacrifice, it seemed that he would miss the shiur after all. But then, as if an angel was sent from Shamayim, an officer approached him, asked for his passport, stamped it immediately, and told him to pass through without waiting. Such a thing had never happened to him before. Next came the mandatory COVID test. The lines were long and crowded — except for one line that was practically empty. He quickly got his test and continued on his way, arriving at his shiur at exactly 12:30. When a Jew is willing to sacrifice for Hashem, Hashem shows him just how much that sacrifice is cherished. Avraham Avinu never knew how much he was accomplishing by walking into the furnace or by being ready to sacrifice Yitzchak. Hananyah, Mishael, and Azaryah never knew how much their loyalty would inspire generations. And every one of us, in our own way, when we give up something for Hashem, is adding to that eternal "pleasing aroma" that rises to Shamayim. The more we are willing to sacrifice to do Hashem's will, the more love we show Him — and the more Hashem shows His love for us.

LECH LECHAWhat's in a name?We've all heard the stories about baby-naming. Name after a grandparent? The meaning of names is an important topic. We all give names to our children for long life, and today we wish to discuss: what is a good name? And how does one even choose a name?We must therefore carefully examine the secret and meaning of names, and we will do so by looking at a major question in the Torah portion of Lech Lecha: How did the addition of just one letter to the names of Avram and Sarai change their destiny, enabling them to give birth to Yitzchak? How could it be that an elderly couple, who had been childless for over eighty years, who saw in the stars that they would never have children and had completely despaired of the possibility- were suddenly “reborn” through the seemingly technical step of adding the letter "hei" to their names?

Study Guide This week's learning is sponsored by Aunt Elayne, Fredjs, Hageges, Somers, Greenstones, and Pilichowskis in honor of Lana Kerzner's birthday. "We admire so much how you continue the Greenstone family legacy of intellectual curiosity coupled with daily dedication to learning and Judaism." Reish Lakish interprets Rabbi Meir’s position in a Mishna in Menachot as holding that an offering becomes pigul not due to improper intent during part of the matir (the enabling act), but rather when improper intent occurs during the first stage, and the second stage is performed without any intent, the second stage is still governed by the initial improper thought. Rabbi Shmuel bar Yitzchak disagrees, asserting that Rabbi Meir maintains one can render an offering pigul even through improper intent during part of an action. Two difficulties are raised against Reish Lakish’s explanation based on two halakhot in the Tosefta. Regarding the first, three attempts are made to resolve the contradiction, but each faces its own challenge. One difficulty is also raised against Rabbi Shmuel bar Yitzchak’s position, but it is successfully resolved.

Study Guide This week's learning is sponsored by Aunt Elayne, Fredjs, Hageges, Somers, Greenstones, and Pilichowskis in honor of Lana Kerzner's birthday. "We admire so much how you continue the Greenstone family legacy of intellectual curiosity coupled with daily dedication to learning and Judaism." Reish Lakish interprets Rabbi Meir’s position in a Mishna in Menachot as holding that an offering becomes pigul not due to improper intent during part of the matir (the enabling act), but rather when improper intent occurs during the first stage, and the second stage is performed without any intent, the second stage is still governed by the initial improper thought. Rabbi Shmuel bar Yitzchak disagrees, asserting that Rabbi Meir maintains one can render an offering pigul even through improper intent during part of an action. Two difficulties are raised against Reish Lakish’s explanation based on two halakhot in the Tosefta. Regarding the first, three attempts are made to resolve the contradiction, but each faces its own challenge. One difficulty is also raised against Rabbi Shmuel bar Yitzchak’s position, but it is successfully resolved.

Study Guide   The Gemara cites a braita to locate the source for the halakha that all placements of the sin-offering blood performed in the inner sanctuary are essential. The braita’s author treats the seven sprinklings as essential because they are treated as essential elsewhere - this statement is explained as referring to seven sprinklings in the rituals of the red heifer and the purification of a leper. The ruling that the four placements are essential is derived from the phrase “and as such he should do.” Why not derive them from the phrase “and he should do like he did,” which is used to teach the seven sprinklings - why can’t both be derived from the same verse? Rabbi Yirmiya and Abaye offer different answers. The braita explains that the word “bull” mentioned first in Vayikra 4:20 refers to the bull of Yom Kippur. Rav Nachman bar Yitzchak teaches from this that the blood placements are essential. Rav Papa, however, maintains that the essential nature can be derived from the verses of Yom Kippur and therefore understands the verse as teaching three specific laws about dipping the finger in the blood, laws drawn from the sin offering of the kohen gadol. A braita is brought in support of Rav Papa’s position. Rabbi Yishmael held that the laws for the bull of Yom Kippur could be derived by kal va'chomer reasoning and therefore understood the "bull" in the verse to be referring to the communal sin offering.   

Study Guide Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi (Rebbi) interprets the first mention of “bull” in Vayikra 4:20 as referring to the bull offering of Yom Kippur, even though the verse’s context concerns the communal sin offering. According to Rebbi, this verse teaches that the Yom Kippur bull is comparable to the bull brought by the kohen gadol who sins, referenced by the second mention of “bull” in the same verse. Rabbi Yishmael disagrees with Rebbi, arguing that the laws of the Yom Kippur bull can be derived through kal va’chomer (a fortiori) reasoning. However, the kal va’chomer argument he proposes is not fully spelled out in the text, and the Gemara clarifies which cases are being referenced and what laws are derived. Since Rabbi Yishmael does not interpret the word “bull” as referring to the Yom Kippur offering, but rather to the communal sin offering, the question arises: why use the term “bull” instead of simply saying “it”? Rav Pappa explains that the unnecessary word comes to teach a law not explicitly stated in the verses about the communal offering, but found in the kohen gadol’s sin offering - that the lobe of the liver and the kidneys are burned on the altar. Although this law could have been derived by juxtaposition, the inclusion of the word “bull” makes it as though it were written explicitly, which then allows it to be used to derive the same law by juxtaposition to the communal sin offering for idol worship. A braita is brought to support Rav Pappa’s explanation and shows how the juxtaposition between the communal sin offering and the communal offering for idol worship (from Bamidbar 15:25) is established. However, another braita derives the juxtaposition from the verse in Vayikra 4:20. Both derivations are considered necessary, as each teaches a different law. Rebbi’s position is cited earlier to support Rav Pappa’s explanation that the word “bull” serves to compare the Yom Kippur bull to the kohen gadol’s sin offering for specific laws derived from the words “et,” “b’dam,” and “taval.” However, Rebbi himself states that the comparison teaches that all the laws are the same, not just those three. This discrepancy is explained as stemming from two different tannaitic positions. Two braitot from the school of Rabbi Yishmael are brought, each explaining why certain words or laws appear only in the kohen gadol’s sin offering and not in the communal one. Both are interpreted through parables that reflect God’s relationship with His people. Finally, a Mishna in Menachot presents a debate between Rabbi Meir and the rabbis regarding whether a pigul (disqualifying intent) during the taking of the handful of the meal offering, but not during the taking of the frankincense (or vice versa), renders the offering pigul. Reish Lakish explains Rabbi Meir’s position: the offering becomes pigul not because intent during part of the matir (the enabling act) can render an offering pigul, but because later actions follow the original intent. That is, if improper intent occurred during the first stage, and the second stage was performed without intent, the second stage is still governed by the initial thought. Reish Lakish supports this interpretation by asserting that our Mishna must align with Rabbi Meir’s view. However, Rabbi Shmuel bar Yitzchak disagrees and interprets the Mishna according to the rabbis’ position.

There are times when a person may feel that he is being treated, quote-unquote, "unfairly" by Hashem. He tries so hard to do good, but it seems like everything keeps getting thrown back in his face. The natural inclination in those moments is to want to turn away, to give up. But if he does, he will lose out on the greatest possible gain. When Hashem puts a person through these kinds of challenges, they are golden opportunities—doorways that can bring him to unimaginable heights. If instead of turning away, a person continues to serve Hashem with even more love and more passion, he earns merits beyond comprehension. Avraham Avinu spent his life teaching the world about Hashem. His deepest longing was to have a child who would take over that mission and continue spreading Hashem's light. But for decades, it seemed impossible. Avraham and Sarah could not have children. One night, Hashem lifted Avraham above the stars and told him: " הבט נא השמימה וספור הכוכבים… כה יהיה זרעך " ( בראשית ט״ו:ה ). Chazal explain that Hashem was showing him that the Jewish people are above the mazalot—beyond the dictates of nature. Even if something appears impossible, Hashem can change it in an instant. Hashem then promised Avraham that he would indeed have a child who would carry on his mission. Avraham waited patiently, nearly thirty years, for that promise to be fulfilled. Finally, he and Sarah were blessed with Yitzchak. They poured their lives into raising him, nurturing him to become the great tzaddik he was destined to be. And then one day, Hashem issued a command that defied all logic: " קח נא את בנך את יחידך אשר אהבת את יצחק והעלהו שם לעולה " ( בראשית כ״ב:ב )-to bring Yitzchak as a sacrifice. From a human perspective, Avraham could have cried out: "This was my life's mission! This was the child I was promised! Now it's all being taken away?" That would have been understandable. But Avraham took a different path. He rose very early the next morning, eager to fulfill Hashem's will. He even saddled his own donkey—though he had countless servants—because he wanted to show his zealous love for Hashem. He went with passion, not despair. And that single act created merits that still protect us thousands of years later. When the Jewish people were in the desert, Balak and Balaam plotted to destroy them. The Chatam Sofer says this was one of the most dangerous moments in our history. Balaam tried to use the power of zealousness to sway Hashem. He, too, arose early and saddled his donkey to curse the Jewish people. But Hashem replied: "You wicked man, My beloved Avraham has already preceded you! He rose early and saddled his donkey to serve Me out of love. In his merit, you will never harm his children." Avraham had no idea at the time how much he was accomplishing. By serving Hashem with joy even in the face of what seemed like betrayal, he laid down eternal protection for his descendants. We see this pattern again with Yosef HaTzaddik. He was living a holy life, learning Torah every day with his father, Yaakov. Suddenly, his life was turned upside down. He was sold into slavery, torn from his family, and thrust into the moral depravity of Egypt. And then, when he was at his lowest, Yosef faced one of the most difficult challenges in history—the test of Potiphar's wife. He could have said: "This is my reward for living so purely? Why should I keep trying?" But instead, Yosef resisted with all his might. Centuries later, when the Jewish people stood trapped at the Yam Suf with the Egyptians pursuing them, it was Yosef's bones that were carried to the water. In his merit of running away from sin, the sea split. Yosef had no idea that his private moment of self-control, when faced with so many difficulties, would one day save millions of lives. This is what is at stake when we feel tested, when life seems unfair. We cannot imagine what our Emunah and perseverance will bring. If instead of complaining or questioning, we rise to the challenge and serve Hashem with more love, we are not only helping ourselves—we are bringing blessing to our children, grandchildren, and all of Klal Yisrael.