Elul 3, 5778, 8/14/2018
 Introspective inspiration: Parsha ParaParshat Parah is meant not to rectify a particular sin so much as it is meant to rectify the idea of sin, the idea of throwing off the yoke of Heaven, writes Rav Dessler z”l. Vaera: Stupendous supplicationWhile Parshat Shemot sets the stage for the redemption and introduces us to all the players in the drama, the actual process of redemption begins in Parshat Va'eira. Pondering the SukkahThe two historical reasons for Sukkot are connected. Vayelech: Glorious gatheringBringing hakhel into the Jewish home. Pesach: Omnipresence and OnenessJust as it was Hashem Who took us out of Egypt, so it is Hashem Who controls every aspect of our lives. Tetzaveh: Revealing the revealedThat Hashem desires our participation in the relationship with Him is the greatest gift He can give us. Vayishlach: Angelic AmbassadorWhy were Jacob's ambassadors angels? Purim is an Everlasting ExperienceWhy is Purim is the only holiday the Talmud says will remain after the Redemption. The Three Weeks: Reality of RedemptionHashem wants us to yearn for the perfected world where pain and suffering will be unnecessary. Reaching for the StarsThe sun's rays must be able to penetrate the schach. We must achieve a balance between the spiritual and the practical. Just Dreidels?Hanukkah in Judaism, andthe menorah and the dreidel that are its symbols, help us appreciate the depth of Torah and the beauty of a Torah life. Mattot: The Final ActWar against the Midianites can be seen as Moshe’s final command from Hashem or from the perspective of Bnei Yisroel’s battle Elul: Recognize the RelationshipAre we being hypocritical at this time of year?The Three Weeks: Valuable VisionIt all depends on your perspective.Juggling JealousyIs it good to or bad to be jealous? It depends.Comprehending the ComplaintsThat which is earned through hard work is valued.Bamidbar: Bearing the LoadAn opening for God's help.Sefirat HaOmer: Striking BalanceEvery Jew has to count because every Jew counts.Tazria-Metzora: Treasure WithinDepending on how you look at it....The Moment of DecisionWe are asked to internalize the lesson of the sun.Vayakhel-Pekudei: A Holy ConduitGetting our inner Mishkan ready to receive. |
