Steven Genack

Genesis: The Book of Hope

This Shabbat, we read the last portion of the Book of Genesis. An overview of an underlying theme..

The word "emor" is softer than the usual "daber" found in the Torah. Why is "emor" used at the start of the parasha and later on "daber"?

A story shows how one's middot, literally 'measures', but alluding to values, are central to mitzvas, as is Counting the Omer.

When you think of man, what comes to mind? How would you frame man? How would you label the first human, Adam HaRishon?

A a ben Olam Haba has an indelible piece in the next world - achieved by being what one can be. Learn from the way Rabbi Akiva saw mankind.

Seven is the natural number, eight is above nature. This week's parasha is "On the 8th day." How fitting for the shiva for Rav Kanievsky

When you do good deeds or refrain from bad ones, the evil inclination is happy for G-d.

The Torah is a compilation of music that speaks to every person individually on their own level.

Truth emerges at the end, but there is truth in every moment. One of the gifts G-d gave us was the chance to achieve salvation in a moment.

One must first be Nitzavim - standing in stillness and reflection - before he can be Vayelech.

The names of parshiot and people’s names define their essence.and interestinly, two are named after doomed characters.

Both Korach and Karaites missed the symbiotic relationship between written and Oral Law.

The essence of 'Malchut' - the sphere of kingship - is to be found in Judah's response to Joseph's revealing himself.

All three elements of Adam's sin can be found rectified in the lives of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.