Perhaps one of the most familiar, cherished aspects of the Seder night and the Exodus narrative in general is the topic of the Esser Makkos, the Ten Plagues that Hashem visited upon the Egyptians. But as the Ramchal famously states in the introduction to his classic work Mesilas Yesharim: “Together with universal familiarity... comes also a lack of scrutiny and deep understanding” [paraphrased]. While so many of us are [...]
There are certain episodes recorded in the Torah, the knowledge of which – for one reason or another – is a universal phenomenon. Regardless of background, level of affiliation, etc., it seems that almost everyone has familiarity with them. One of these appears in this week’s parshah – Moshe’s encounter with the burning bush. While tending the flock, he happens upon a most remarkable sight: a bush which, while [...]
One of the first things one pictures upon hearing the term “beis hakevaros” (graveyard) is, of course, the many tombstones arrayed in this solemn and hallowed place. The institution known as “matzeivah” (tombstone) is obviously a time-honored and universally adopted practice. It may be worthwhile, however, to take a moment to reflect upon the nature of this convention. What is the idea behind this custom? Is it [...]
The key to living a life of near-perfection is revealed to us in the Mishnah (Avos 3:1): “Said Akavya b. Mahalalel: Contemplate the following three things, and you will never stumble into sin: Know from where you came, to where you are going, and before Whom you will eventually have to give an account and reckoning (at the end of one’s life)... Before the King of Kings, the [...]
“Grant me wisdom from my enemies” (Tehillim 119:98). At times, we can extrapolate the best way for successfully serving Hashem by taking a lesson from the designs of our worst enemies. The Yevanim (Greeks) of the Chanukah saga are no exception. As opposed to Amalekite Haman – who sought the physical annihilation of the Jewish people – the Yevanim were intent on our spiritual demise. As long as [...]
Peace Now? Ya’akov Avinu’s career of hardships spanned many years. He was forced to leave his parents’ home, fleeing for his life from his wicked and vengeful brother; he spent many years of backbreaking labor, working for his unscrupulous and conniving uncle, Lavan; his wife died in childbirth; and, at the end of last week’s parshah, he completed a tumultuous sojourn in Shechem, where the misconduct of the [...]
Powerful Words of Inspiration
From Rabbi Yissocher Frand
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