The DataBeis with Rabbi Yehoshua Eisenberg: Recent Episodes
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These Shiurim and Torah discussions include a comprehensive Parsha series, a brief 'Mussar Minutes' series, other content spanning from Tanach, to Chazal, to Halachah, Nusach HaTefilah, Shabbos/Yom Tov and much more. Using the classical sources and critical thinking, we search for a deeper, enriched understanding of the Torah we study, pray, and perform all year around.
Bava Basra met our Parsha this past Shabbos in a beautiful and deep Gemara with a Pasuk from our Parsha.
Hashgachah Pratis serves us several connections between Chag HaMatzos / Yetzias Mitzrayim and Bava Metzia!
In this special, expanded Pesach edition of the Shiur, we will follow the precise Seder of the story we tell every year, going 'from the dark to the Great Light' of Pesach. But, what is this 'Great Light' of which the Haggadah speaks? In order to identify and uncover the 'Great Light' of Pesach, we must first identify and uncover the 'Great Lie' of Pesach. What is that?
Can you lie about being drunk on Purim? See the Maharsha on today's Daf for an incredible Purim connection! For more on the topic of Ad D'Lo Yada...
Real-Talk Torah: Bringing Our Kids to the Level of Ad D'Lo Yada (without an Ounce of Wine) 👶🏻🚫🍷
Why do we boo Haman and cheer Mordechai? (We don't boo Pharaoh and cheer Moshe.) While we are still sober, what actually is the difference between 'Cursed is Haman' and 'Blessed is Mordechai'? What is the message of Purim that we hope to impart to our children, or the child inside each of us?
Find out here 👇🏻
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/52115
https://chat.whatsapp.com/JsNyPXYnGp2K1oH867F5Ct
CORRECTION: This was Perek 13, NOT 12.
https://chat.whatsapp.com/JsNyPXYnGp2K1oH867F5Ct
In these few minutes, you will learn how to take your learning of Tanach to new levels through the method and tool of 'concordance.'
https://chat.whatsapp.com/JsNyPXYnGp2K1oH867F5Ct
Why does the Torah condone war? Why may the avenger of blood take the life of a person who killed unintentionally? Doesn't the Torah care about life and peace?
Hashem fed us a 2 course meal in the desert. But, was that service with a smile? Rashi says that it depends which course. What was the difference between the main dish and the Mann dish? The difference between evening and morning...
The Torah tells us that during Choshech, the B'nei Yisrael had light. But, was Choshech not one of the darkest periods in the history of Klal Yisrael?
Hashgachah Pratis finds a brilliant connection between yesterday's Daf and the Hebrew mothers of Parshas Shemos (as well as the wild animals of Vayechi)!
It's a beautiful, popular tune to use in the second Brachah of Shmoneh Esreih. But, the way most Chazanim incorporate the whole tune with its climactic high part, they run into an obvious Halachic issue. Are there any workable solutions to this problem? I recently attempted one and failed. But, maybe there are other possibilities. What is the problem? What might be some solutions?
Was miracle of the oil a big deal? Did perfumes really make Yosef feel better? Should we make a holiday celebrating tuna fish cans? R' Chaim Shmulewitz answers 2/3 of these questions. We'll address them all.
*Correction: This week's Parsha is Vayeishev, not Vayishlach.
Why was Rachel buried on the roadside? Why does she represent all of Am Yisrael if she mothered inly 3 tribes? In honor of my mother's first Yahrtzeit, we learn about the power of our secret supply Zechus Imahos and the tears of Rachel Imeinu.
Two incredible recent connections between Parsha and Daf, and 3 weapons against our spiritual adversary.
Yaakov instituted Ma'ariv in our Parsha at his time of desperation and dire need. Why wouldn't it be an obligation? Why would we discriminate against the Tefilah of Yaakov Avinu? My Rebbi, R' Yonason Sacks Shlita offers an incredibly inspiring insight to answer this question.
The difference between good and evil is the difference between day and night, between Yaakov and Eisav, and yet, even Yitzchak Avinu struggles to differentiate them. What can we expect from a world dominated by Sheker?
My Rebbi notes a brilliant connection between our Avos and the Avos we find in the beginning of Bava Kama.
Avraham Avinu joins us in our Parshiyos and in our final Daf of Kiddushin!
You may also enjoy:
The Parsha Panel: The Torah Observance of the
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/6226
What is so stellar and star-like about Am Yisrael? And why does Hashem test us? And why couldn't my son and I see so many stars when we tried counting them the other night?
Hashem promises Avraham that he will become a great nation with a great reputation... and also that He will curse those who curse him. If Avraham's nation will have such a great reputation, why would anyone curse him?
What is worse, being 'evil' or a 'sinner'? What is the difference between them? Sodom was both. Does it matter? And what is the deeper difference between the Oreiv and the Yonah? Find out as we visit both Noach and Lech Lecha in today's Daf.
Hashem's conversation with Kayin appeared in the Daf this past Erev Shabbos. The Pasuk cited in our Daf contains one of the most fundamental lessons in Avodas Hashem.
In the final Haftarah of the year, we begin the first chapter of Navi. It is the only Haftarah that appears chronologically next to the Krias HaTorah. It is literally the next chapter of Tanach. It seems like an obvious choice of Haftarah. But also notice: It is also the only Haftarah that doesn’t correspond to the Maftir. Also, besides for finishing V'Zos HaBrachah, on Simchas Torah, we begin Bereishis again as well. Does the Haftarah have anything to do with that? What is Simchas Torah really about?
What is the point of Sh'mini Atzeres? What was the point of Succos? Shlomo HaMelech provides us with the utility we need before we return to our homes. It is not a Succah or Dalet Minim. What is it?
Are the Yomim Nora’im over? Or might the Yimei Ratzon extend a bit further? Why are we still saying L'Dovid Hashem Ori? And were we Zocheh to that 'one request' for which we have been asking for over a month?
Gog U'Magog returns to the Haftarah scene, this time, with no mention of Succos. Is there something more instrinsic that connects the final war to Succos? What does our Mesorah want us to think about on Shabbos Chol HaMo'eid Succos? In order to answer that question, we may have to look one chapter earlier in the Navi, which just so happens to the Haftarah for Shabbos Chol HaMo'eid Pesach. Is there a connection between the two Shabbos Chol HaMo'eid's?
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/53949
Half-Torah/הַפְטָרָה - Shabbos Chol HaMo'eid Pesach: 'Dry Bones' (Yechezkeil 37:1-14) 💀🦴
Is the Succah supposed to be a Diras Arai (temporary dwelling) or a Diras Keva (permanent dwelling)? Does it correspond to the Mishkan or the Beis HaMikdash? Why is the latter referred to as the Succas Dovid HaNofales? What is the perfect message that the 2nd Haftarah provides to those of us in Galus/Chutz LaAretz?
After the war to end wars, the Navi tells us that the nations will join us in the performance of Succos. Why? The Gemara answers this question with a very strange and unique Midrash from the future, that the Mitzvah of Succah would be the nations' last chance to fulfill Torah. Why? What is the relationship between Gog U'Magog and the Mitzvah of Succah?
Why doesn't Yom Kippur come before Rosh HaShannah? Why don't we wipe our slates clean before Yom HaDin? And why is it that we fast before Rosh HaShannah and feast on Rosh HaShannah, while we feast before Yom Kippur and fast on Yom Kippur? Why do we recite long Selichos before Rosh HaShannah and short ones before Yom Kippur?
Can't make this stuff up. On Erev Shabbos Shuvah, our Daf taught us how to see ourselves as Beinonim on the scale of Hashem's Din and the impact of Teshuvah at the last moment.
Correction: At the time of this recording, Nach Yomi had just begun Megilas Rus, not Koheles.
In the most famous Haftarah, we read the story of Yonah. Why? Because Ninveih does Teshuvah? If that's true, we should only read Chapter 3, not the whole book. Why do we need to hear about Yonah being swallowed by a fish? Because it's cool? And why do we need to read about the strange Kikayon-plant at the end?
The Torah requires us to afflict ourselves and fast. The Navi argues: Do you think Hashem cares if you afflict yourselves and fast? Which one is it? The answer is simple and yet profound. What is it? Also, why does the Haftarah give Shabbos a fancy shout-out?
Why does it take three people to deliver a Shabbos Shuvah Drashah? How many different ways can the Nevi'im warn us to do Teshuvah? This Shabbos, we will hear from three of the Trei Asar. What can we learn from our Haftarah's 'Round Robin' panel of prophets?
When Ha'azinu does NOT coincide with Shabbos Shuvah, we read the Song of Dovid... for the second time. We already read it on Pesach. What does this song have to do with our Parsha? The fact that it's a song? Is that all they have in common? There are many songs in Tanach. Why read this one again? There is a sharp, important one-word connection. Let's take a closer look at that connection.
'HaVein Yakir Li Efrayim' is not only a beautiful song, but it is a question posed by the Navi; is Efrayim really precious? Do we deserve salvation? Can our innocence be defended in a court of Din? What if it can't? Is there an endless supply of Mercy available? What do the 'ashes' of Yitzchak and tears of Rochel have in common?
The Gemara says that Hashem remembered Chanah (among others) on Rosh HaShannah. What does that mean? Isn't Hashem ever-conscious of everything? How is it that He 'remembers on Rosh HaShannah' (as if He could forget on other days). This is not just a question on a single story. This calls the entire holiday into question: What is the meaning of 'Yom HaZikaron'?
Incredible insight into the Machzor appeared in yesterday's Nach Yomi. Prepare yourself for U'Nesaneh Tokef with Iyov 37.
Is it a simple yes or no? Is there a right and wrong way or amount to be afraid? Kayla Rus provides some answers and inspiration here.
I'm sure you are preparing your post-it notes for your Machzor filled with names of people and things you will be Davening for. If you are a serious person, I imagine that you are also preparing a note with your personal Viduy, a list of confessions. What should our Viduy list look like?
The Sheva D'Nechamasa culminate with what looks like a beautiful wedding celebration, turning the Shiva into Sheva Brachos! But, the Groom is dressed in red. Why should that be? The answer will sound like something out of a horror film. What is the final message of the Sheva D'Nechamasa? Is there a 'Happy Ever After'? Where do we go from here?
Are you excited for Rosh HaShannah and Yom Kippur? Are you nervous? Perhaps you're feeling both. But, where do these seemingly opposite emotions stem from? Is there a common source?
The mysterious 'Stored Light' of Creation shines throughout our Haftarah as the Navi calls upon us to celebrate. The problem is that we're still reading the Shiva D'Nechamasa (Seven of Consolation). Consolation and celebration are not the same thing. Why should we celebrate now? Is the 'light' already shining somewhere?
There appear to be mixed messages from the Gemara and our tradition. What is the difference between Tzedakah and Chessed? Is one greater than the other?
In the 5th Haftarah of 'Comfort,' we repeat the Navi's shout-out to Noach which which we read during the week of... you guessed it: Parshas Noach. Why are we repeating this Haftarah? And what is comforting about the Waters of Noach which destroyed the world?
Where can we find comfort? Who is the source of our comfort? Is it Hashem? Is it we ourselves? Can we control our own comfort? The Navi and, L'Havdil, Mufasa weigh in on this important discussion.
Why do we repeat half of the Haftarah for Parshas Noach this week? What is the Navi's message of comfort for those being tossed by the storm? Eventual peace? Serenity? Security? Shelter? These are not the first thing the Navi offers. What does the Navi promise? The answer is a bit shocking, and some might argue tone-deaf. Is it tone-deaf? Or are we?
An incredible connection between this week's Parsha and Nach Yomi! We suggest a surprising answer to an important question.
Why does the Navi criticize us so aggressively? I thought these Haftaros were supposed to provide comfort... Where is the comfort in the message that it's our fault?
The Navi encourages us, 'Nachamu, Nachamu'-'Be Comforted, Be Comforted.' And the simple question is: Why? On the basis of what? What changed? I don't see a rebuilt Beis HaMikdash. I'm still in Galus. The loss I have experienced has not been 'found.' Why should I be comforted?
We revisit and revise our thoughts on this very important question. We don't recite Selichos on Tish'ah B’Av as we do on other fast days. We mourn on Tish'ah B’Av. But, what if there is another element to the day? If Teshuvah is a key component of Tish'ah B’Av, how do we express it differently on this most unique day on our calendar? What is the key difference between Yom Kippur and Tish'ah B’Av?
Why did the Churban happen? On Tish'ah B’Av, the Navi announces the somewhat surprising answer, which is apparently something so terrible, it is not as bad as abandoning Hashem Himself. What could that be? What could we do to fix it?
What is the vision of Yishaiyah? The Navi doesn't describe much imagery. Yirmiyah and Yishaiyah both lament with the word Eichah. But, they use these words quite differently. Yirmiyah compares Yerushalayim to an Almanah (widow). Yishaiyah compares us to a Zonah (harlot). What do an Almanah and a Zonah have in common? How are they starkly different? What is the message of Chazon Yishaiyah?
What makes your blood boil? Zechariah HaNavi's blood boiled and wouldn't stop even at the threat of the slaughter of Jewish children. Who was Zechariah? He is the center of one of the most heartbreaking Kinos. What was his story? Why did his blood bubble relentlessly? Why is his tragedy worse than any of the others? The answer has to do with the Rebbi Akiva's laughter and tears. What do I mean? What made Rebbi Akiva laugh? What made him cry?
What is Sinas Chinam? Does anyone actually hate another person baselessly, for ZERO reason at all? On a separate note, Chazal teach that due to the story of Kamtza U'Bar Kamtza, Yerushalayim was destroyed. Do they mean to say that Yerushalayim was destroyed based on a pure fluke misunderstanding?
Yirmiyah lists 'two evils' to explain why we were doomed to experience the unparalleled Churban of the first Beis HaMikdash. If you look at the list though, it looks like only one sin was committed; idol worship. What are the TWO evils? Moreover, with the inclination for paganism no longer prevalent in Orthodox Judaism, of what relevance is this Haftarah's message to us?
The timing perhaps could not be better as we begin the story of Kamtza U'Bar Kamtza during the 3 Weeks. The Gemara begins the infamous story while Darshaning (expounding on) an innocent Pasuk in Mishlei. This Pasuk might actually be the secret solution to generations of suffering and exile.
Why do we read the Haftarah of Mattos this week? What are the Telas D'Puranusa? Why are they more important than the Parsha HaShevuah?
Why do we read 'Dirshu Hashem' on Ta'aniyos Tzibur? What is the point of fasting altogether? What do all Ta'aniyos have in common?
The Haftarah for Pinchas is rarely read (Indeed, it will NOT be read this year). But, when it is read, it seems to almost contradict our Parsha. Pinchas is zealous for Hashem and is rewarded. His reincarnation Eliyahu HaNavi is zealous for Hashem and is rebuked. What was the difference between them? Are we supposed to aspire to emulate Pinchas or not?
Why is Balak different from all other Parshiyos? Why does Parshas Balak even exist? Why do we need this story in the Torah? Why does the Navi, Michah, insist on talking about it?
Correction: 6:8 is the final verses of the Haftarah (not 6:9 ).
If you enjoy political debates about the history of Israel and Israeli occupation of land, this Haftarah about Yiftach is one for you. But, what does the diplomacy of Yiftach have to with Parshas Chukas? Also, who was Yiftach? Does he have a personal connection to anyone in our Parsha? We answer all of the above as we explore this tragic hero's sad origin story, his rise to political and military success, and his heartbreaking blunder here.
We have 2 back-to-back connections between Daf Yomi and this week's Parsha in Israel, Parshas Chukas all in under 4 minutes! Have a wonderful Shabbos!
You would think that the Haftarah for Korach would feature a climactic rebellion story in Navi. There are MANY of them. None of them are discussed in the Haftarah. Instead, we hear Shmuel’s response to Klal Yisrael’s request for a king. Why? What is Korach's rebellion really about?
By way of incredible Hashgachah Pratis, I heard today's Gemara quoted in a Parsha Shiur yesterday. I couldn't pass it up.
2 years in a row in Inyana D'Yomi, the Daf quotes the same Pasuk in Korach during the week of Korach. Plus, is the Ketores poisonous? Is the Torah poisonous? We investigate as we address seemingly conflicting Rashi's in our Parsha.
Chazal appear to suggest that sending in Miraglim was a mistake on Moshe's part from the outset. Why would Yehoshua repeat that tactic? And if it was a bad idea, why would Hashem 'okay' it in the first place?
Our Parsha teaches us about Pesach Sheini, but our Haftarah seems to introduce us to Chanukah Sheini, repeating the same exact Haftarah of Shabbos Chanukah. Why repeat the Haftarah?
See also:
Half-Torah/הַפְטָרָה - Shabbos Chanukah/Mikeitz: Just a Menorah Shout-out? (Zechariah 2:14-4:7) 🕎
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/47019
If you are curious enough by my clickbait title, you might also be curious as to why our Haftarah features the conception of Shimshon. He happens to be the most famous Nazir, but he does not resemble the Nazir described in our Parsha. Is the connection just a loose one?
'Who Knows 10?' (?עַשָׂרָה מִי יוֹדֵעַ) - 10 Nazirim in our Mesorah 🧔🏼♀️
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/51229
In his one-time appearance in our liturgy, Chavakuk joins those of us in Chutz LaAretz accompanied by a random Aramaic poem and perhaps the most powerful message about Kabbalas HaTorah for B'nei Yisrael in Galus.
See also:
BTW - Ba'al Tefilah Workshop: Yetziv Pisgam 👼🏻🌋
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/14702
Correction: The Krias HaTorah for Shavuos Day 2 is from Re'eih, not from Mishpatim.
What if we made it to Sinai but did not receive the Torah? Would that have been enough? Could there have been a Shavuos? What is Kabbalas HaTorah without Torah? Maybe, there is a additional element of Ma'amad Har Sinai that we could have and could still tap into on Shavuos. We will try to identify it as we ride the Divine Chariot.
In a timely connection to Shavuos, the angels come to our defense to ask why Hashem appears to disregard our commitment of Na'aseh V'Nishma. Find out why here.
Why does Erev Rosh Chodesh have its own Haftarah? It doesn't even have its own Maftir. Is it just because we found a place in Navi where someone says, 'Machar Chodesh'-'tomorrow is Rosh Chodesh'? What does that have to do with us today, when it's not yet Rosh Chodesh? What does the story of Dovid, Shaul, and Yonasan teach us about the apparently unique hours of 'Machar Chodesh'?
Did Hashem do this just to make a point? What was the point? How important was it? And what does it have to do with Bamidbar?
The Parshiyos, Dirshu Mishnah Berurah, and the Daf all meet up this week with Birchas Kohanim. How do we know that Kohanim must bless us out of 'love'? What is the most important blessing we could receive?
What does security mean? Our Haftarah is the origin of the famous song, 'Baruch HaGever Asher Yivtach BaHashem...'-'Blessed is the man who trusts in Hashem...' What is that blessing?
This Haftarah describes a real estate sale and a Tefilah. The sale is simple. The Tefilah is a bit hard to follow. Yirmiyah describes Hashem's past miracles and then appears to lose hope halfway through. Why did his tone change? What is the difference between Emunah and Bitachon?
Yechezkeil describes a vision of the Kohanim of the future. This includes a list of what appears to be laws of the Kohanim. But, if you look closely, it is a strange list for 2 reasons. (1) This list has new laws that didn't exist in the Torah. (2) This list features the prohibition of eating Niveilah/Treif--a rule that ALL Jews must follow. That doesn't sound like a description of Hilchos Kohanim...
This is one of the rarest Haftaros. It was last read in 1997, over 25 years ago! (We are scheduled to read it in 2024.) But, this is no coincidence. Chazal intentionally avoid this Haftarah. Why? Isn't the point of the Haftarah to read it? What is it's message when we do read it?
For Acharei Mos, we visit Amos in search of a connection beyond the alliteration and sort of slant rhyme that their names share. Moreover, what is the comparison between Klal Yisrael and Kushim? And what does this comparison have to do with our Parsha?
The last chapter of Yishaiyah mentions Shabbos and Rosh Chodesh in the penultimate Pasuk. Perfect connection. But, why does Shabbos Rosh Chodesh get a special Haftarah in the first place? What is so special about the coinciding of Shabbos and Rosh Chodesh? And what does the rest of the Haftarah talk about? What does it tell us about the unique character of Shabbos Rosh Chodesh?
The 'Fancy but Precise' Nusach for Shabbos-Rosh Chodesh Musaf 🕯🕯🌙
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/9912
BTW - Ba'al Tefilah Workshop: Revisiting Shabbos-Rosh Chodesh Musaf (Atoh Yatzarta) 🌎
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/18946
The Haftarah for Metzora features four Metzora'im. Connection identified! But, what do these four Metzora'im teach us about what it means to be a Metzora? What do they teach us about the 'day of his purification'?
What does Elisha's miracle about a multiplying barley loaf have to do with Tzara'as? How exactly did Elisha cure Na'aman? Did he seriously just tell him to take a bath? Is that all it takes?
Why was Uzah killed for trying to stop the Aron from falling? What exactly is the connection between Uzah dying and Dovid dancing? What were Michal and Dovid arguing about? What does any of this have to do with Parshas Sh'mini?
In Galus, we finish Pesach with a beautiful Haftarah about what will be when Moshiach comes. What will that be like? Why do we read this now?
On the 7th day of Pesach, we re-read the story of Krias Yam Suf and Shiras HaYam. But, this time, we follow up with a different Haftarah, NOT Shiras Devorah, but Shiras Dovid. The question is why not use the same Haftarah for both Beshalach and Pesach? Because we don't want to repeat a Haftarah? But, we will be doing just that when we read Shiras Dovid again as the Haftarah for Parshas Ha'azinu! So, hy is Shiras Dovid appropriate for Pesach?
We could not have asked for a better week's worth of Dappim to learn as Sotah 9-13 has been treating us to a marathon on Aggadata telling us virtually the entire Pesach story. It felt like reliving the Haggadah all over again. The Hashgachah Pratis is oozing out of the pages of our Gemara. Be showered in that ooze here.
This famous Haftarah reminds us one final step to our Geulah process that, if forgotten, our Pesach experience will be 'dead,' 'dry,' and incomplete.
The Haftarah we read in Galus is not only a beautiful, later-day sequel to the first day's Haftarah from Yehoshua and the story of Yetzias Mitzrayim altogether, but it provides incredible Chizuk to those of us 'stuck' in Galus, giving us direction to 'seeing ourselves out' of Egypt, despite our current circumstances.
The connection between the Haftarah from Yehoshua and Pesach is obvious, but perhaps you did not appreciate just how beautiful the connection is. It is not a mere shout-out to Pesach, but I believe it highlights the central goal of Seder night.
Why does my Haggadah say, 'Haggadah Shel Pesach' on it? Is there another kind of Haggadah? Can't make this up; the Daf on the day of Erev Pesach contains the word 'Haggadah'! Why? In what context? What does the word 'Haggadah' even mean?
What is this song doing in the Haggadah? Why are we singing this strange folk song instead of telling the story of the Exodus? What is the significance of the 10 characters in the song?
What is this song doing in the Haggadah? Why stop at 13? Why not link 13 to age of Bar Mitzvah? Is it worse than highlighting 8 days of Bris Milah or 9 months of pregnancy?
Why do we even have a Ke'arah to begin with? Why can't we just leave the Maror and Karpas in the kitchen until we're ready for them? What else is on the plate and why?
There are a lot of 4s on Seder night! Do you know all of them? Great! Now can you connect them?
The 'Who Knows?' Shiur series returns with a special Pesach marathon. You may think you know the Haggadah well, but I think you can know it better. For example, you might know the Kadeish-Urchatz song (and several different tunes to it), but do you know why we need the song? Do you know why the song needs to follow the order that it's in? Does everyone agree to this order? Could you have envisioned the Seder in a different order?
Why isn’t there a special Maftir during Krias HaTorah to match this Haftarah? Where is the Pesach message in this Haftarah? What is Shabbos HaGadol really about? Why is it called Shabbos HaGadol?
Related:
Real-Talk Torah: Why is it called 'Shabbos HaGadol'? 🐑
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/12532
What is the Secret Avodah of 2nd Days?
🌊🍷🍷🍷🍷🌊
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/12805
https://etzion.org.il/en/holidays/pesach/haftora-shabbat-hagadol
Tzav teaches us how to offer Korbanos. Yirmiyah tells us that Hashem doesn't want our Korbanos and that we can shove them down our own throats for all He cares. Why? Is there a contradiction?
Stay tuned for the unique Haftarah for Shabbos HaGadol!
Why is abstinence from contact with the dead 'holy'? Why does contact with the dead disqualify one from Korban Pesach?
I joined a panel of other Mechanchim to discuss different ways to bring the Pesach Seder to life for ourselves and our children. Here is what that sounded like.
Vayikra begins the always exciting topic of Korbanos! ... What? You're not excited? You think that Korbanos don't relate to you? You're wondering why Hashem even instituted them if He doesn't need them--nor does He need our Mitzvos and Tefilos for the matter? That's fair. But, maybe the Haftarah can help.
Is Parshas HaChodesh about Rosh Chodesh or Pesach? It starts with Rosh Chodesh, but mostly discusses Pesach. So, it's both? What is the connection between Rosh Chodesh and Pesach? Can an answer be found in this week's Haftarah?
Vayak'heil & Pekudei are known for their seeming redundancy. Why does the Torah repeat so many details? There is a parallel to the Torah's 'Mishkan Series' in the Haftaros which discuss the construction of the first Beis HaMikdash. If we follow each stage of the series, we will identify three stages of the building process which can explain the Torah’s strange attention to detail.
The Haftarah for Parah gives a couple of homiletical shout-outs to Tumah and Taharah. But, what do these shout-outs actually have to do with Parah Adumah? What is the difference between a heart of stone and a heart of flesh? We will answer these questions and discuss the spiritual organ transplant which we apparently require especially at this time of year.
In an awesome display of Hashgachah Pratis, our Daf today quoted Parshas Parah which we'll be Leining this week. In what context? Click the link to find out and be treated to a thought-provoking mini Shiur which will incorporate Divrei Torah from my Rebbi, R' Yonason Sacks Shlita in the name of the Rav.
Eliyahu HaNavi's showdown against Ba'al is a nice parallel to the story of the Cheit HaEigel, but wouldn't it have made more sense for the Haftarah to be taken from the story when Yaravam Ben Nevat created 2 Golden Calves in Melachim? Why does Eliyahu HaNavi's story compliment the Cheit HaEigel better?
Why do we boo Haman and cheer Mordechai? (We don't boo Pharaoh and cheer Moshe.) While we are still sober, what actually is the difference between 'Cursed is Haman' and 'Blessed is Mordechai'? What is the message of Purim that we hope to impart to our children, or the child inside each of us?
Enjoy this Purim edition of the Shiur! 'Who knows' how to read these 10 names in one breath? Click the link to see how I did (it might have taken a few 'takes'). Then stick around to see which surprising facts you knew about Haman's family.
Is love the appropriate response to hate? The answer can be found in Parshas Zachor and on Purim. And that answer might surprise you.
The Haftarah of Tetzaveh time travels to the future with inauguration of the Mizbei'ach in the 3rd Beis HaMikdash! Tetzaveh also talks about the Mizbei'ach. The only problem is that we got the wrong Mizbei'ach! Tetzaveh discusses the golden one while its Haftarah discusses the copper one. Why is that?
I don't think this one is a stretch. Just some sweet Hashgachah Pratis and a powerful, short D'var Torah to go with it.
Inyana D'Yomi returns as our attention is drawn to the 'Mikdash' in both the Parsha and the Daf.
While Terumah begins the 'Mishkan Series' of the Torah, its Haftarah actually begins its own 'Mikdash Series.' This series will continue with the Haftaros of Vayak'heil and Pekudei. Why are there so many Mishkan Parshiyos? Why so much repetition? Might an answer be found in the Haftaros?
What is so Halachically complicated about this Yahrzeit? Why am I discussing it now? Can you come up with an even more complicated Yahrzeit date?
In Daf Yomi world, Klal Yisrael is learning Nazir. How many Nazirim can you name? How about Naziros (female Nazir)? How many kinds of Nazir can you name? Here, we will look at 10 real life cases of Nazir from Tanach and Chazal.
Who knows how many different materials were used to create the Mishkan? The list is right there in the Chumash, however the sources in Chazal debate the actual number! Rashi's tally appears to be missing 2 items. So, how many items were in the Terumah? What is the magic number? What is so magical about the numbers? Who knows? You will know if you listen here.
What is Shekalim about? Money? What about it? There's a money collection in the Haftarah. But, there's a different money collection in Terumah's Haftarah from Melachim Aleph. What's the difference between the two readings? How is your Nach knowledge in general? Want to improve your background ever so slightly and possibly have a more meaningful Tish'ah B’Av because of it?
Why isn't he called 'Eved Yisrael'? Can an answer be found in the rarely read Haftarah of Parshas Mishpatim?
Stay tuned for a Half-Torah Shiur on Parshas Shekalim, be'H.
Do you know about these 10(+) special Shabbasos and Haftaros? I'll be impressed if you have heard of the 10th one. It might surprise you. Let's see how many you know.
Did I miss any? Let me know @ TheDataBeis@gmail.com.
Yisro and Shavuos have the same Torah reading, but are complimented with different Haftaros, two different versions of the Ma'aseh Merkavah (Account of the Divine Chariot). Is our Haftarah just the 'diet' version of the Shavuos Haftarah? Or is there a deeper connection between our Parsha and it's Haftarah? And why does Yishaiyah volunteer to be Hashem's messenger to rebuke the B'nei Yisrael? What happened to humility?
Welcome to the pilot Shiur of 'Who Knows?' a DataBeis Shiur series of Torah lists with Torah tidbits for each item that will expand your knowledge base and pique your hunger for more food for thought. Today, we ask 'Who Knows 10?' and challenge how well we know the Aseres HaDibros.
Does this Shabbos food make me look fat? Is it true that we don't gain weight on Shabbos or is it just a myth? Do the numbers on the scale lie? Are there any sources that discuss this issue?
There is more than one Shirah in the Torah and more than one Shirah in Navi. Why were Shiras HaYam and Shiras Devorah matched up? Also, what does an ideal Eishes Chayil look like? The answer may (or may not) surprise you.
This prophecy against Egypt pays a shout-out to the locusts, the very first plague in Parshas Bo. That couldn't be a coincidence. But, is it just a shout-out? And why did Bo begin with plague #8 anyway? Was THAT a coincidence? Why not split the plagues more evenly, or at least keep the final set together and begin with plague #7? Why was Arbeh even necessary? Why didn't Hashem wipe out ALL of the crops during Barad?
Yechezkeil 28-29 features prophecy against the Egypt of his generation. But, so does Yishaiyah 19. So, why is Yechezkeil's prophecy a more appropriate Haftarah for Parshas Va'Eira? Additionally, why did Hashem tell Moshe to show Pharaoh a staff turning into a sea-serpent, a trick he could eaaily duplicate? Was there a deeper message behind this sign?
Shemos features two completely different traditions for its Haftarah. It is the first Haftarah where Ashkenaz and Sefard cannot agree on even the same Navi. Ashkenaz reads Yishaiyah, while Sefard reads Yirmiyah. What do these 2 very different prophets and passages tell us about our Parsha?
L'Ilui Nishmas: Imi Morasi - Chaya Rochel Bas Dovid Tzvi (Hareini Kaparas Mishkavah)
We return to Melachim Aleph where we read the final words of Dovid HaMelech to his son Shlomo. He does not recite a prophetic poem the way Yaakov Avinu did for his children, but he provides Shlomo a list of subjects, some loyal and some disloyal, and instructs how Shlomo ought to treat them. How are these orders relevant to our Parsha? Might Dovid's speech have more in common with the Birkas Yaakov th we realize?
The Parsha of Nedarim is one of the sources that even if one merely intends an Aveirah but does not carry it out in action, he is still in need of forgiveness from heaven. However, the Or HaChaim suggests, based on Yosef's words, that his brothers were completely absolved from even their harmful intentions against him, even in the heavenly court. How can that be? We'll see several answers from my Rebbi's Sefer here, plus a couple of more connections shout-out to Daf Yomi Yerushalmi Brachos.
The connection between Parshas Vayigash and the Haftarah from Yechezkeil couldn't be better. But, did you catch the connection between Haftarah and the Haggadah? What is that connection? Why is there this connection? And what secret Avodah that we need to be redeemed from this Galus?
Is that the only connection between the Haftarah and Chanukah? A Menorah? Or can we do better than that? What if I told you that the single takeaway message of Chanukah can be found in Zechariah's Nevuah? What if I told you that Mikeitz sends the same message?
Wondering what the actual Haftarah for Mikeitz is? It's one of the rarest Haftaros. We read it 2 years ago and discussed it here:
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/6869
Real-Talk Torah: The Rarest Haftarah (one of them anyway) - 'Split That Baby!' 👶🏻
Is the connection between Vayeishev and its Haftarah from Amos really based on one line in the Midrash? Did Yosef's brothers actually sell him for shoes? Is the takeaway message just that kidnap for ransom is bad? Is there not something more there?
Full Levaya with video:
https://www.shiurenjoyment.com/livestream-levaya-of-mrs-rachel-eisenberg-ah/
Is it better to be ugly? Maybe someone explain it to me... The Daf/Parsha appear to weigh in AGAIN! And I will tease you until you (re)listen to my 2-part mini series of Shiurim on the Ugly Talmid Chacham!
The Ugly Talmid Chacham & the Handsome Rasha 🤓📜 vs. 😎🥓 (Ta'anis 7A-B & Yoma 35B)
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/26746
The Ugly Talmid Chacham - Part II 👳🏼♂️ vs. 👹 (Ta'anis 20A-B)
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/27177
This week, we read an entire Sefer of Navi for the Haftarah (only one other Haftarah features an entire book). Eisav is featured prominently in 2 Parshiyos and in 2 passages of Trei Asar. Toldos was complimented by the prophecy of Malachi. Vayishlach is complimented by Ovadiah. The question is: What is the difference is between the message of Toldos and the message of Vayishlach, the message of Malachi versus the message of Ovadiah?
Why does Hoshei'a talk about Yaakov running away when yelling at Efrayim? What is the difference between the Ashkenazic Haftarah and the Sefardic Haftarah? What is the connection between Yaakov in Aram and the story of Yetzias Mitzrayim?
What was the one Midah that all of our Avos had in common? In the following double-connection between the Parsha & Daf, we will answer this question and help Yitzchak choose his successor!
Malachi records an argument between B'nei Yisrael and Hashem.
B'nei Yisrael: Hashem doesn't love us.
Hashem: What do you mean? I loved Yaakov and hated Eisav.
Very strange response. How does that prove Hashem's love for Israel? Why is Hashem's hatred for Eisav relevant to the conversation?
This is the resounding question in both our Parsha and today's Daf! (The Hashgachah is insane!)
This tiny Mishnah and short couple of lines of Gemara in Nedarim answer this question head-on, making it one of the most monumental pieces of Gemara pertaining to the Parshiyos of the Avos, so much so, that my Rebbi, HaGa'on R' Yonason Sacks Shlita highlights this Gemara annually at this time of year. It is a Zechus to be able to share my Rebbi's words here.
One of the heavy questions that emerges from our difficult Parsha is: Is it ever okay to lie? What if I told you that there are times where it is possibly even Halachically okay to swear falsely? We will dip our toes into the possibilities as we look at Toldos and Nedarim side-by-side.
An explicit connection between our Daf today and our Parshiyos this week and last week which both teach us 'Emor Me'at VaAseih Harbeih'-'Say a little and do a lot.'
What does the political campaign of Adoniyah and his pursuit of the throne have to do with Parshas Chayei Sarah? We will embark on a fast multi-Parsha time-machine thriller ride to defend our tradition. (If you join me now, you will also be treated to a very interesting sequel to last week's Haftarah which actually has a strange alternative ending.)
With Parshas Vayeira, we have the first 'narrative' Haftarah and the unique opportunity to analyze and compare not just 2 stories, but 5 staggering stories between the Parsha and its Haftarah. What is the Haftarah about? What do the stories have to do with each other?
Is there Gehinom in the World to Come? The Daf last week suggested a sunny alternate universe and contains a key word connection to a Rashi in this week's Parsha linking Avraham Avinu to the Jewish nation and Tzadikim of the future.
Yes, Avraham's name appears once in the Haftarah, but does this shout-out justify this Navi portion's selection as Haftarah? Avraham's name appears in many place in Tanach. Why is Yishaiyah 40:27-41:16 the best choice for Lech Lecha's Maftir?
At first glance, there appear to be mixed messages when we look at the Daf on the one hand and the Parsha on the other. While we ponder this question, let us also ask: Why were Avraham Avinu's declarations of Sheim Hashem more favorable than those of the Dor Enosh?
Noach's name makes it into the Haftarah twice, but are these shout-outs the only connection between the Parsha and the Haftarah? Or can we perhaps dive even deeper than the 'Waters of Noach'?
On the last Daf of Kesuvos, we find a Pasuk from Parshas Noach which reminds us that Cana'an and Mitzrayim were not only countries, but humans, brothers. Who exactly were they? What exactly was the sin of Cana'an in this week's Parsha?
Is Bavel preferable to Eretz Yisrael?! What was the root evil of Migdol Bavel? What did Avraham do differently? Is there any justification at all for living in Bavel or any other land of Galus?
Thanks to Hashem and recommendations from listeners like you, I present the pilot episode of 'Half-Torah.' What is the Haftarah? What is it about? What does it have to do with the Parsha? Find out here.
Some have Darshan'd that the month is referred to as Mar-Cheshvan ('bitter Cheshvan') as there are no special holidays or themes [S'deih Chemed, Ma'areches Chasan V’Kalah 23]. So, how are we supposed to musically customize our Kiddush HaChodesh and Halleil this month? At least 6 ideas and demos can be found here.
The Parsha and the Daf meet again this Hoshana Rabbah, as Rebbi Yehudah HaNasi compares himself to Moshe Rabbeinu citing a Pasuk from V'Zos HaBrachah. Was this a bold comparison? Did Rebbi Yehudah HaNasi truly crave such honor? And are Hakafos a display of Bitul Torah?
Why does Moshe refer to himself in third person? Why does he refer to us as 'Kehilas Yaakov' and not 'Am Yisrael'? Why must we teach our kids this Pasuk? Why is the Torah compared to a Na'arah HaMe'orasah ('betrothed' young girl) and not a full-fledged wife?
When the song appeared on social media, that was one thing. But, when it appeared last week in Selichos and again in Rashi in this week's Parsha, I could no longer ignore the topic. What is this song about and what is the Torah response to its recent explosion on social media?
It is the most famous Pasuk in our Parsha, but what does it mean? To whom was Moshe talking when he said it? How many several Halachos do we learn from this Pasuk?
The Torah doesn’t disclose a location. But, the M'forshim do. Did Moshe walk over to the Parsha Pardeis? Find out here.
What does it mean to display Rachamim B'Din? With the return of Inyana D'Yomi, we find an incredible connection between the Yomim Nora'im and the perfectly placed Daf discussing the seemingly unrelated legal ruling of R' Akiva.
Why does Moshe Rabbeinu state the obvious? Was there a reason to assume that the people weren't standing?
A few minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Parshiyos Ki Seitzei and Ki Savo, and the pursuit of happiness.
Why does there have to be a 'Hated Wife'?
Is she really hated? WHY is she hated? Or why is she described as 'hated'? Who exactly hates her? Why not just divorce her? Who really is this 'Hated Wife'? While we're here, did Yaakov Avinu violate the rules of firstborn/Pi Shnayim?
What was written in the King's Torah Scroll? Why did he need one? Where did he keep it? Is there a difference between the King's Torah and his Torah scroll?
I know that this has been on everybody's mind. But, I've got you covered. Rashi in this week's Parsha quotes the answer right out of last week's Daf.
On Rosh Chodesh Elul, our Daf clues us in on the meaning of one of the profound Piyutim of our Yomim Nora’im Davening.
Blessing or curse. Which do you prefer? Do I have to ask? If it's so obvious, why do both choices exist? Why would Hashem avail us to the curse option? Why do curses exist? Why does evil even exist? Might there actually be a 'good' reason for 'evil'?
The Daf gives this past week's Parsha a shout-out, providing us spiritual food for thought. What is the connection between Mann and marriage? What does the Mann teach us about marriage?
What's the 'one thing' Hashem asks of us? Is it one thing or is it really more than one thing? What about the 613 things He's already asking us for? And is this one itty-bitty thing so itty-bitty? Why does Moshe seem to pretend that it is?
What does it mean to ask for a favor? What is the precise meaning of Va'Es'chanan? Why did Moshe Rabbeinu choose that word to describe his Tefilah? Was it the appropriate Tefilah? Was the Tefilah successful or not? Should we model our Tefilos after this one?
● Why did Hashem go out of His way to state Shamor and Zachor simultaneously?
● Did you know that those are not the only 2 statements that were miraculously stated at once? What were the other ones?
Join me as we explore a beautiful and fascinating Midrash which pulls our Parsha and Daf together.
In this Friday's Daf, just before Tish'ah B’Av, we find a reference to none other than Churban Beis HaMikdash. However, the reference is not one that evokes mourning for the Churban or yearning for the restoration of the Beis HaMikdash. In fact, it might ironically do the opposite. It challenges us to ask ourselves if we are really ready for Binyan Beis HaMikdash.
Why is the Ta'anis different from others? Why is this Aveilus different from others? What is the secret of the dual identity of Tish'ah B’Av? What is the secret to Nechamah? The answer may be found in the Torah where there was once Aveilus but with no Nechamah.
Devarim sets the stage for Moshe Rabbeinu's final speech and does so in a way that is so precise and specific, that it's not at all clear where the speech to took place. How is that possible? Where did the speech really take place? It actually took place right in middle of the פרדס! What do I mean? Find out here.
In this double edition of Parsha-Daf inspiration, we will learn about a discouraging sounding expression that we are often guilty of using ourselves. 'When Moshiach comes...' Do we believe he is coming? How soon do we believe he is coming? How soon do we act as though he's coming?
In this sequel Shiur, we will continue to learn the Torah approach to anger management with 2 crucial pieces, one from the legendary Sichos Mussar, and one from perhaps the single most important Igeres that has ever been written.
Part I:
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/19047
The Torah does not only record the 42 journeys, but it records that the journeys were recorded. In other words: Why does the Torah record the recording of the recorded journeys... just for the record?
● From the context, the Gemara wants to know how to praise a bride. Why phrase the question in terms of 'dancing'?
● Is the Gemara recommending that we rate the Kallah? Is it appropriate or even permissble to gaze at the Kallah?
● What are the parameters for lying on these matters?
● Should you attend weddings or are they a waste of time?
What is the relationship between Nedarim and 'profanities'? Is it true that 'words can never harm'? Obviously not, but what if I told you that certain words can kill Jewish children, Rachmana L'tzlan? Why would that be?
This Shabbos, our Parsha and our Daf celebrate Semichah. We will look at each of them and learn an incredibly inspiring idea which my own Rebbi, HaGa'on Rav Yonason Sacks shared on our Parsha at my Chag HaSemichah.
Suppose a man throws a rock into a crowd of 9 Jews and an Oveid Avodah Zarah (idolater), killing one unidentified victim. Guilty or innocent? The answer on today's Daf might surprise you. According to Rashi, that answer can be found in next week's Parsha!
What is the source for Tikun Chatzos? What are the texts of this Tikun? Should you be reciting it?
https://www.halachipedia.com/index.php?title=Tikkun_Chatzot
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tikkun_Chatzot#:~:text=Tikkun%20Chatzot%20(Hebrew%3A%20%D7%AA%D7%A7%D7%95%D7%9F%20%D7%97%D7%A6%D7%95%D7%AA,of%20the%20Temple%20in%20Jerusalem.
Hashem promises Pinchas a 'Pact of Peace' (Bris Shalom). Who wouldn't want that, right? But, what even is a Pact of Peace? What does it entail?
Do you love Hashgachah Pratis? Did you catch the Pasuk in our Daf which was borrowed from Parshas Pinchas today? Do you know what a 'Shtuki' is? Want to find out?
Rashi points out that someone in our Parsha had his name magically changed. But Rashi claims that he does not know why. The Chasam Sofer reveals that the answer to this mystery can be found right in the Daf we learned last week.
(Eretz Yisrael was Zocheh to this Parsha-Daf connection past week.)
Throughout Torah, Nevi'im, and Kesuvim, we find several occasions of Hashem displaying 'regret.' And yet, there are a number of occasions, for example in our Parsha, where Pesukim expressly state that Hashem categorically does NOT manifest regret. Where in Tanach do we find these seemingly mixed messages? How are we supposed to understand these Pesukim? Can Hashem actually have 'regrets'? What would cause them?
A double connection between our Parsha & the Daf appears in a discussion about Mo'av and the 'legal' and incredibly beautiful Brachah that is recited at every Jewish wedding.
There's more than one word for 'times/occasions.' What does 'Regalim' actually mean? Why did Hashem choose the word 'Regalim' for the she-donkey's rebuttal to Bil'am? Is there a Pashut P'shat answer? And how about the Midrash which notices that 'Shalosh Regalim' appears in only one other context? What is the connection between the 2 sets of Shalosh Regalim?
Rashi and Rambam point out that Moshe erred at Mei Merivah due to Ka'as, anger (whatever that means on his level). Is it ever appropriate to manifest anger? Is there an easy antidote to anger? The answer might be found in a Rashi on the first Daf of Kesuvos.
Today's Daf teaches us that Hashem judges the Tzaddikim like a 'hair's breadth,' exacting precise, strict judgment. He scrutinized Moshe Rabbeinu's misstep in this week's Parsha and hammered him hard for it. But, shouldn't Hashem actually cut a little bit of slack and be MORE patient for those who work so hard to serve Him?
This week's Parsha seems to suggest that snakes are not the true cause of death. Today's Daf seems to suggest that snakes are indeed a direct cause of death. How do we resolve the contradiction? As a bonus, we will be visited by R' Chanina Ben Dosa and the Arod on his shoulder.
What Parsha is the Miraglim in? Shelach, right? Wrong! Okay, not entirely wrong. But, perhaps a more accurate answer is: Chukas. What am I talking about? Let's take a look.
In Eretz Yisrael, the Parsha HaShevuah is Parshas Chukas which makes 2 back-to-back appearances in the Daf today: (1) Parah Adumah and (2) a snake. Where are their shout-outs in the Daf? And did you know about the secret connection between the Red Heifer and the Copper Snake? Get your Israel/Early Edition of Inyana D'Yomi here.
There are actually quite a few places Korach can be found, beneath the surface (pun absolutely intended). In this workshop, we will highlight several artful and musical ways to give a shout-out to Parshas Korach in all 3 Shabbos Davenings and also treat you with several song options, demos, and thought-provoking Divrei Torah. I have to admit, I had a lot of fun with this one and I think you will too.
'וַיִּקַּח קֹרַח'
You can't get off the first word in our Parsha without asking this obvious question. What did Korach take?
Korach and Yevamos meet again, this time, in a Rashi on Daf 113 where we find an explicit Pasuk from the end of our Parsha. What was the context? What is the final topic of Parshas Korach? What is doing there? What can we learn from it?
These 2 words appear in our Daf and in Rashi on this week's Parsha. Which was Korach? Was he sound minded or foolish? Was Korach a fool? Or was he of sound-minded? Why did he pick a fight with Moshe and G-d? Seems foolish. Yet, Chazal label Korach a Pikei'ach. What went wrong?
What is the connection between the rhetoric of Dasan & Aviram this week and the rhetoric of Caleiv last week?
Why might a woman say that heaven stands between her and her husband? What does Caleiv teach us about Shalom Bayis and bridging the gap between spouses in Machlokes?
● Can a 'Canceled' Rebbi's Torah scholarship earn him S'char through the Torah observance of his students?
● Can one thrive spiritually with 'only Torah'? Does Yevamos 109 weigh in on Kollel/Beis Midrash life style? What is the meaning of Talmud Torah K'Negged Kulam?
(Key Sources: Yevamos 109B, Tosafos, s.v. מהו דתימא אית ליה אגרא)
PART I - From whom may you learn Torah? A Torah Approach in Cancel Culture:
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/31622
PART II - Acher Un-canceled?:
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/31622
Who was the hero of the Miraglim story? Pick one! Now, another unfair question: Who was greater, Yehoshua or Caleiv? Yehoshua succeeded Moshe as leader of the B'nei Yisrael, but seems to have taken a back seat to Caleiv. But, is it possible that Yehoshua did everything right? Why was he silent? Shouldn't he have spoken up? Why did only Caleiv speak up? Why didn't Caleiv take a back seat to Yehoshua? Join me and the Mishmar Chevra of Kesher Israel of Harrisburg, PA as we dive into the incredible Midrashim and secret origin stories of Yehoshua, Caleiv, and the Cheit HaMiraglim.
What is the Mitzvah of Challah doing in Parshas Shelach? How can a little Kohein girl get married to a non-Kohein and still enjoy a nice piece of Kohanic Challah for dinner?
Moshe Davened:
סְלַח־נָ֗א לַֽעֲוֹ֛ן הָעָ֥ם הַזֶּ֖ה כְּגֹ֣דֶל חַסְדֶּ֑ךָ וְכַֽאֲשֶׁ֤ר נָשָׂ֨אתָה֙ לָעָ֣ם הַזֶּ֔ה מִמִּצְרַ֖יִם וְעַד־הֵֽנָּה
Hashem responded: 'סָלַחְתִּי כִּדְבָרֶךָ'-'I Have forgiven you in accordance with your words.'
The problem is that Moshe said a lot of words. Which words did the trick? Was it all of them? Was it only some of them?
We shout these words every time we recite Selichos, but what do they mean?
In this incredible sequel, we find an additional mind-blowing connection between Miriam's Lashon HaRa and Chalitzah. In a word: Spit. What exactly is the significance of the spitting that appears in Chalitzah and in B'Ha'alosecha? Is it a stretch? I wasn't sure myself until I realized that (1) there are only two 'spit takes' in the Torah and (2) until I saw the Rabbeinu Bachya.
You can tell me if you if you think the connection is too loose, but I couldn't help but notice the Tzara'as that appears both on the Chalitzah sandal in our Daf this Shabbos and on the Tzadeikes in our Parsha. Why does the Torah command us to remember Miriam's disgrace every single day? She was a Tzadeikes and this just seems like a Bizayon. Could the Torah not find another way to warn us against speaking Lashon HaRa without shaming such a special woman?
Regardless of how you greet people on Shabbos, there is a secret connection between 'Shabbos' & 'Shalom' which can be found in several parts of our Shabbos Davening. If you join me along this secret path, I will show you a powerful 'loophole' and 'life hack' that breaks the rules of Tefilah on Shabbos and enables us to ask Hashem for almost anything.
Less than 24 hours removed from the series premier, a connection has been spotted between Daf & Parsha, Yevamos 101 & B'Ha'alosecha, in a brief Tosafos at the top of 101B! (No, I did not plan it this way! Pure Hashgachah Pratis!)
Let's learn the Tosafos and draw some inspiration from the 70 Zikeinim who were appointed to join Moshe Rabbeinu this week!
When Hashgachah decides that 'today's Daf' and 'this week's Parsha' (or other Inyana D'Yoma) are going to connect in an obvious way, we are Zocheh to the 'Divine Kiss' and revelation that is Inyana D'Yomi/עִנְיָנָא דְיוֹמִי! When that occurs (and it does constantly), we don't just give it a shout-out, but we meditate and ask ourselves what lesson or Torah ideal is being called to our attention. What is the Divine message?
In this pilot episode, we will review over 20x this Daf Yomi cycle when the Weekly Parsha and Daily Daf came together in incredible fashion to add fireworks to our Talmud Torah!
What exactly is Bein HaZ'manim? Is there a source for Bein HaZ'manim? How is Bein HaZ'manim supposed to be spent? How are Shabbos and Yom Tov supposed to be spent? Does the answer vary between B'nei HaYeshivah/Kollel Leit, Mechanchim, and Ba'al HaBatim? Does our Mesorah weigh in on these questions?
Moshe Rabbeinu's 5-word Tefilah for Miriam's Refuah seems to have been short, but could it have been one word shorter? Which word was extra? Why is it there? Why did Moshe keep the Tefilah brief in the first place? Why not make it even shorter?
Last year, we had the Zechus of hearing about Infertility and Halachah from R' Elag Segelman here 👇🏻
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/18233
Here's a little bit more about what you may not have known about Infertility and Halachah.
To partner up with The DataBeis and participate in PUAH's campaign, click here 👇🏻
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'קָרְבָּנ֞וֹ קַֽעֲרַת־כֶּ֣סֶף אַחַ֗ת שְׁלשִׁ֣ים וּמֵאָה֘ מִשְׁקָלָהּ֒...'
We know this Leining by heart and can easily complete the sequence. But, do we JUST parrot it or can we actually describe the Korbanos of the Nesi'im in our own words? Do we know just how many animals were 'harmed' in the making of these tributes? Was their sacrifice important? Do we know why these animals all matter?
Does 'Degel' literally mean flag or does it actually mean something else? And what were the 'signs' on these Degalim? That depends on hich perspective of Pardeis you're looking from.
Yes, Shavuos is Z'man Matan Toraseinu, but you will hardly find such as a hint to this theme in the Chumash (Check Mishpatim, Ki Sisa, Emor, Pinchas, Re'eih). That said...
● Where is Z'man Matan Toraseinu? If that is not the primary significance of Shavuos, then what is? Why ISN'T Matan Torah 'of the essence'?
● How is Matan Torah relevant to whatever that other theme is?
● What is the meaning of the apparently agricultural holiday of 'Yom HaBikurim'/'Chag HaKatzir'? What is the secret of the unique Korban of the day, the 'Minchah Chadashah,' also known as the 'Sh'tei HaLechem'? Is Shavuos a Chameitz party?
Do you normally Daven Nusach Ashkenaz? How familiar are you with Nusach Sefard? How comfortable are you with Davening Nusach Sefard for the Amud? Have you ever been asked to do that? Are you ready to sing 'Kesser'?
Here, we will provide some tips and demos to help you adapt your Shabbos tunes to the slightly different (and in some cases, very different) text of Nusach Sefard.
What should one learn on Leil Shavuos (Shavuos night)? What should one learn in general? Whatever you want? Is there a list of priorities? What exactly is Tikun Leil Shavuos? How can we make it most productive?
Davening on Shavuos Morning can be difficult for everyone, Chazan and Kehilah alike. What do you do if you're asked to lead? Do you rush through Halleil? Do you sing at all? How much? Which tunes? Can this challenging Davening slot be done to everyone's satisfaction?
What an incredibly loaded Pasuk! I can't think of another way to sell this one. At the end of the Tochachah, Hashem says He will remember His covenants with the Avos. Sounds pretty basic. But, only without Pardeis. Open this link and have your mind blown.
Sh'mitah means to 'leave alone' the land. But, what does 'Yovel' mean? What does 'D'ror' mean? What does Yovel proclaim?
Sure, you know Nusach. But, what do you do when slip into the wrong Nusach? Suppose it's Shabbos, but you mistakenly ended Kedushah with the Rosh Chodesh/Shalosh Regalim tune? How do you recover? How do you ensure that you won't make those mistakes? Are you prepared to transition in and out of any Nusach, whether Shabbos, Shalosh Regalim, or Yomim Nora'im?
דֶּרֶךְ אֶרֶץ קָדְמָה לַתּוֹרָה
What exactly do these words mean? What is the source of this famous expression? How are they relevant to Sefiras HaOmer and everyday? We will explore their origin, the startling story of R' Yanai and the well-dressed ignoramus.
Is Shabbos a Yom Tov? Why does the Torah begin the list of Moadim with Shabbos? What is the difference between Shabbos and Yom Tov? Why can we cook on Yom Tov and not on Shabbos? Ready for a jaw-dropping Remez from the Gra?
We should be holy because Hashem said so, right? Say no more! Except Hashem Himself says more and gives a reason. What is that reason? What does it mean? Still a dumb question? Either way, let's answer it.
Who or what is Azazel and why do we offer a Korban to it? It Avodah Zarah? How was it the original scapegoat?
Why read Shir HaShirim on Pesach? How does the tune go again? Any good Shir HaShirim song choices for a Chazzan?
Why is Maggid so long? Why is Maggid mostly instructions? Are we supposed to be engaged for every dragging word of Arami Oveid Avi? Do we expect the kids to be?
In this sequel Shiur to last year's Pesach Panorama, we will explore a new perspective on Maggid that will blow your mind. With the Chiddush of R' Yosef Tzvi Rimon, you will not only be able to follow Maggid better than any year before, but you will understand all 4 of them! What do I mean? Find out here.
For R' Yosef Tzvi Rimon's Full Shiur:
https://youtu.be/9v936kVuq_E
For Pesach Panorama: A No-Nonsense Haggadah Guide
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/12664
You think the answer is obvious because you've read the Haggadah before. But, what if I told you that 'Pesach' existed before Makkas Bechoros (even if ever so slightly)? And what about that Rashi in Bo which you never noticed? Never noticed it, right? Of course not--it's the one you that have never noticed. While we are here, what does the word 'Pesach' actually mean?
▪︎ Have you ever noticed how we search the house for Chameitz, and then for Matzah? Coincidence?
▪︎ Is there a connection between Bayis HaMenuga and Bedikas Chameitz?
▪︎ Might Pesach be the Antidote to Lashon HaRa? How so?
What is or 'will be' the 'Torah of the Metzora'? In other words: (1) What does the Torah mean that it 'will be'? And (2) what even is the 'Torah Metzora'?
One of the enigmas of Tzara'as is that when it covers a person completely, he is declared Tahor. But, why in the world should that be?
What does 'this' Rosh Chodesh have to do with Pesach? Why is 'this' month different from all others? What is 'this' referring to?
What was the nature of the sin of Nadav and Avihu? Did they just act without permission or did they perhaps violate an explicit command? Were they forewarned?
Although Parah Adumah is an unfathomable decree, what can we understand about it? What is the purpose of the Parah Adumah? And how might Parah Adumah recommend we deal with death and loss?
What did the Arizal mean that Yom Kippur is a 'Day like Purim'?
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What at all is the basis for comparison between the two holidays? They couldn't be more different!
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How is Purim possibly greater than Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year?
What does Tzav add to Vayikra? They both describe the same exact Korbanos. Answer: Tzav doesn't just teach about the Korban Olah, but it teaches us the Toras HaOlah, the Torah of the Olah. What's that?
'On that night, the King's sleep was disturbed' [Esther 6:1]. But, why? No explicit reason appears in the text. Coincidence? Hashgachah? Bad dream? What was bothering him? And which king are we talking about, by the way?
A workshop of tips and demos for the incorporation of this popular, soulful song into your Shabbos Davenings.
A workshop of several song options connected to Parshas Vayikra as well as Parshas Zachor.
Amaleik did WHAT to us? Why is Amaleik fixated on our Bris Milah? What does Amaleik's antisemitism have to do with Shmiras HaBris, the guarding of the covenant of marital purity? What are we supposed to remember?
'And He called to Moshe' - WHO called to Moshe? Why doesn't the Torah say? And why is the Aleph small?
Sequel to the Shiur below:
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/31622
Who is qualified to teach Torah? Are there any exceptions?
In part II, we continue the conversation with a look at what happened when R' Meir tried to 'un-cancel' Elisha Ben Avuyah A.K.A. Acheir. Was he successful? Why or why not? (Key source: Chagigah 14B-15B)
'These are the reckonings of the Mishkan, the Mishkan of Testimony...' Why say 'Mishkan' 2x? Why the over-emphasis? Might we have mistaken the Torah as referring to other Mishkenos? Some M'forshim say: Yes, we might've! But, what other Mishkenos were there?
Where did the 39 Melachos come from? You think you know the answer because it's famous, right? Believe it or not, their origins go far deeper than you think and will uncover the essence of Shabbos. We'll weave 3 'origin stories' together in a fascinating Shiur based on the Torah of my Rebbi, R' Yonason Sacks (Shlita).
There are many activities (at least 39) that are prohibited on Shabbos. Why does Moshe Rabbeinu highlight the kindling of a fire?
Why do we read Parshas Shekalim? What was the purpose of the Half-Shekel? Why do we continue to pay it today?
After the Cheit HaEigel, Moshe Rabbeinu Davened to Hashem on behalf of the B'nei Yisrael, famously urging that if Hashem wouldn't forgive them, then He should just erase Moshe's name from His book. The question is: What book was Moshe referring to? What is 'Hashem's book'?
What is the Avodah of Purim Katan? Why does it exist? The secret lies in the last Halachah of Orach Chaim [697] where the Rama says something quite strange and shocking. What did he mean? What is that secret?
Why Do We Reference the Bigdei Kehunah after the Haftarah? 👔 Where do we do that?
Who wrote the Haftarah Brachos anyway?
How important are dresscodes to Judaism altogether? Does it matter what's on the outside?
The Torah explains that their purpose was 'L'Chavod U'L'Sifares,' translated loosely as 'for honor/glory and for splendor.' But, what does that mean? And for the honor and splendor of WHO/WHAT?
There are a handful of beautiful and apropos songs for the 5 Parshiyos of the Torah dedicated to the Mishkan. Can you guess any of them?
What are 'Cherubim'? We assume that they were types of angels based on how we've been taught and based on sketches we've seen from our childhood, but what in fact were they and what was their purpose? Only one way to know for sure.
_Can you learn Torah from anyone? Are there people from whom you may not learn Torah?
_Does the source of 'Torah content' matter? What if the content is Kosher, compelling, 'Emes-dic,' and completely non-controversial?
_Does the Torah have a perspective on 'cancel culture'?
(Key Sources: Mo'eid Katan 17A & Rambam, Talmud Torah 4:1)
How much Adar should you pump into your Halleil(s) on Rosh Chodesh Adar Aleph? Shout-out or all out?
For Kiddush HaChodesh Adar Beis: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/9653
For Halleil of Adar Beis: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/9819
At the end of Mishpatim, the Torah describes the scene of Kabbalas HaTorah, but from the unique and loftier vantage point of the Zikeinim. What did they see? The Torah describes as follows [Shemos 24:10]
'... כְּמַֽעֲשֵׂה֙ לִבְנַ֣ת הַסַּפִּ֔יר וּכְעֶ֥צֶם הַשָּׁמַ֖יִם לָטֹֽהַר'
'...like brickwork of sapphire and like essence of Heaven to its purity.'
What in the world does that mean? Perhaps, that's the wrong question. After all, the Torah is describing a sight well beyond this world. That said, the Torah uses words and images we can relate to somewhat so as to give us something of an understanding. We will use the 4 layers of Pardeis to achieve such an understanding.
We wrap up the Shaleshudos Series with a few more song options/demos for Shaleshudos as well as a couple of beautiful options for the final Shir HaMa'alos of Shabbos.
Part I - Askinu Seudasa: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/25684
Part II - Mizmor L'Dovid: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/27564
Part III - Yedid Nefesh: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/28835
Why is charging Ribbis so terrible? And if it is, why is it appropriate to charge a Goy with Ribbis? Is this Jewish privilege/supremacy?
▪︎Why is a Goy who keeps Shabbos 'Chayiv Misah'? Why can't Goyim Keep Shabbos? Shouldn't they commemorate Hashem's Creation of the world as well?
▪︎Did the Avos keep Shabbos? How were they allowed?
▪︎What makes Shabbos a Matanah Tovah?
What is the meaning of 'Lo Sirtzach'? What does it include? We will see how easy it is to violate it using the 4 angles of Pardeis (including 3 really cool Remazim).
The Torah first states that the Jews were 'בְּת֥וֹךְ הַיָּ֖ם בַּיַּבָּשָׁ֑ה' (in midst of the sea, on dry land) and then that they were 'בַיַּבָּשָׁ֖ה בְּת֣וֹךְ הַיָּ֑ם ' (on dry land, in midst of the sea) [Shemos 14:22-29]. What's the difference?
▪︎First, the Torah states that the water became a 'חוֹמָה' and then later states that it became a 'חֹמָה.' What's the difference?
Mishlei 21:1 - 'The Heart of the King is in the Hand of Hashem'
What does this mean? Why is it true? Do kings have free choice? To what extent? Did Pharaoh have his free choice? Was it suspended? We'll survey the M'forshim on Mishlei and on Pharaoh here.
A few suggestions to make this Shabbos Shirah Davening a little bit nicer/more musical than usual plus over 10 beautiful tune options with demos connecting to the themes of Shabbos Shirah/Parshas Beshalach and Tu B'Shvat.
What is Yedid Nefesh? Only one of the most inspirational songs in all of Jewish liturgy. What exactly is it about? Why say it (2x) on Shabbos? Wouldn't you like to know... We will break down this heartfelt Tefilah and demonstrate 4-5 of the most gorgeous and apropos tunes here.
Shaleshudos Series - Part II:
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/27564
The Torah states that one who consumes Chameitz on Pesach will be 'cut off from Israel' [Shemos 12:15]. This is the source of the Chiyuv Kareis for one who eats Chameitz. But, what exactly does that entail? What actually is Kareis? And is perhaps this Kareis different from other manifestations of Kareis?
What do Bisyah and Mordechai have in common? They both were called 'Yehudim' for their rejection of Avodah Zarah. And apparently, anyone else who does earns the title: 'Yehudi' Is it that easy? Why are 'Avodah Zarah deniers' called 'Yehudi'? What does Avodah Zarah have to do with gratitude? We will answer these questions and see perhaps the Ramban's most important comment here.
What was Makkas Arov? Where did the Arov go? Did the ground follow them? And what was the point of Arov? Was it just something that looks cool and makes for a great coloring page? Was it more? We'll discuss that and more on Parsha Paradise/פרשה פרדס!
Whatever happened to Moshe Rabbeinu's kids? It's not so clear. But, when you weren't looking, his grandson took a side job as a priest for Avodah Zarah. Who? What? Where? Why? When? How?
The Torah tells us that Moshe Rabbeinu was 'good.' What does that mean? We'll suggest several possibilities spanning all levels of פרד''ס.
Yaakov Avinu could have simply stated that Rochel Imeinu died. However, he specified, 'Meisah Alai Rochel' [Bereishis 48:7], literally, 'Rochel died on me.' What exactly did he mean by that?
What did Chazal mean by this cryptic statement? The Chumash describes his death. Is someone 'lying' here? The M'forshim and another critical look at this Gemara will enlighten us and change our outlook.
Why is Mizmor L'Dovid said at Shaleshudos/Shabbos meals? What is it about? What tune(s) should I use?
Shaleshudos Series - Part I:
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/25684
Vayigash begins with a bang, high energy and emotion. But then, the temperature lowers quickly... or so it seems. It's quiet... too quiet. There is an ominous aura in the second half of Vayigash and the last Pasuk in the Parsha takes it home. We will look at it with our Pardeis glasses and be enlightened to some important Hashkafos and timeless tactics for life.
Why do we base our recitation of 'V'Sein Tal U'Matar' on the secular date of December 4/5th? (A synopsis of a Shiur from my Rebbi, R' Yonason Sacks Shlita)
In part I, we saw two Gemaros that identified a correlation between ugliness and Torah scholarship. Here, we will study that relationship further as we investigate another incredibly strange Gemara about the Tana who called a man ugly, seemingly for no reason at all...except that he was ugly.
Part I: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/26746
'Vayehi Mikeitz Sh'nasayim Yomim' indicates that the opening story in the Sidrah took place at the end of some two-year period. Literally, 'And it was at the end of a two-year period.' But, two years from when? Moreover, how many years did Yosef spend in prison? Was it 2 years or much longer? These two questions meet in the Midrashim and the M'forshim and will be addressed in another dimension we call the Parsha Pardeis.
An explanation of HaNeiros Hallalu with demos for a couple of the classical tunes, +1 surprising bonus tune.
• Does being ugly help one's learning? (I can try my best to explain it...)
• Chazal teach that 'Yosef 'is Mechayeiv' (obligates) the Rasha'--but, does he? Wasn't he 'Yosef HaTzaddik,' son of the Tzaddik HaDor? How does HE obligate the Rasha? Because he was handsome? Shouldn't the Gemara then say that 'Yosef obligates the Handsome'?
Join me as we investigate 2 Incredible Gemaros which address the impact of physical appearance on our Torah learning (Ta'anis 7A-B & Yoma 35B).
What is objectively the single most important part of Davening to sing? The answer can be found, black on white, in Shulchan Aruch 51:9. The answer might not be intuitive and, ironically, the piece is recited at the most inconvenient time for singing. Which Tefilah is that? Why must we sing it? While the world is celebrating Thanksgiving (hint hint), we will answer that question and even provide a demo for what the Shulchan Aruch describes as the song that never ends.
When describing the pit which Yosef was thrown into, the Torah elaborates: 'V'HaBor Reik Ein Bo Mayim'-'And the pit was empty; there was no water in it' [Bereishis 37:24].
The famous question is why the Torah saw value in emphasizing that the pit had no water if it already told us that the pit was empty. Chazal famously suggest that, indeed, the pit was really only empty from water, but maybe had other contents. If so, what was in the pit? How would you know that? And why would the Torah describe the pit as empty? What really was and wasn't in the pit?
*Correction: Scorpions are not reptiles, but arachnids.
We encounter a lot of angels in Scripture, especially in Sefer Bereishis. But, what are they? Are they actual beings who can be interacted with or are they just prophetic visions? Join me as we investigate a heated Machlokes Rishonim.
Another Parsha edition of Ba'al Tefilah Workshop with a few perfect tunes for several spots in Davening this Shabbos, Parshas Vayishlach. 1 of them definitely is a must-use song. Find out which one and where to fit it here.
Vayishlach tells a story that simply cannot be explained with only a Pashut P'shat. Why did the Angel strike Yaakov specifically in his Kaf HaYerech/Gid HaNasheh? With 4 angles, we'll understand the angel on the Parsha Pardeis.
Was Eisav destined to be a Rasha? Presumably not. But, how do we account for his yearning to go to the Beis Avodah Zarah? And what would an 'Eisav HaTzaddik' looked like? Could Eisav Dodeinu have ever been an Eisav Avinu? Would he have married Leah (or Rochel)? Join me and my brothers R' Daniel and R' Mendy as we explore several alternative paths for Eisav that could have been on the long awaited return of the Parsha Panel.
Riddle: There are a few people whom Chazal consider to be dead even though they are alive.
3 of them appear in Rashi all in one Parsha!
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Which Parsha is it?
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Who are the 3 individuals?
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What do we learn from their 'living deaths'?
The most famous dream in the Torah is bound to be laiden with meaning. And since Yaakov's Ladder was a dream, even the Pashut P'shat has to go further than just the manifest content to explain it. What does Yaakov's Ladder symbolize? Enter the Pardeis with me to find out.
Last year, my brother R' Daniel and I confronted Yaakov Avinu's 'lie.' We interrogated the story and its many interpretations to better understand Yaakov Avinu's actions. Here, I revisit that story and demonstrate that in our Parsha, Yaakov Avinu purposefully made some 'deal with the devil' in more ways the one with a deeper agenda in mind. What was the nature of Yaakov's 'Deal with the Devil'?
Yitzchak wasn't sure which son was in front of Him, but apparently, after smelling his garments, he proceeded to bless his son. The question is what he smelled and why it reassured him? We will answer that question using the four angles of Pardeis.
In Part 1 of the Shaleshudos Series, we will (1) discuss the role of a Ba'al Tefilah/Designated Ruach-song guy at Shaleshudos, (2) try to decode the 'simple' meaning of the Kabbalistic/Aramaic texts in Shaleshudos, (3) provide some tune demos of these pieces in Shaleshudos.
Of course it is Mutar to Shecht and consume animals according to Torah law. But, is it more moral not to? Is there possibly a higher Torah ideal of veganism? Is there not? If not, why did Hashem create animals in the first place? What is their role? What is our responsibility towards them? Join me and my brother R' Daniel for another fascinating conversation on a heavy topic.
Was she really Hagar? Is it a Machlokes? Why should we be compelled to read the story as though she was Hagar? Why is Avraham's marriage to her important? Using the 4 angles of Pardeis, we will explain Pshat... as well Remez, Drash, and Sod.
*Correction: Rashi is Rashbam's grandfather, not his father.
In this workshop, we review the connection between Shabbos Chayei Sarah and Eishes Chayil and present over 10 beautiful and thematically apropos song options to be incorporated into Davening this Shabbos (including an Eishes Chayil Medley) with some demos.
You may also be interested in the Aufruf Line-up Workshop which can be found here:
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/10257
Who is the Eishes Chayil? Who composed it? Who is 'Eishes Chayil' describing? A specific woman in history? Several women in history? Is 'she' a metaphor for something else? Why do we recite it every Shabbos?
And if you stick around until the end, we'll address another interesting question: Is it okay for a woman to be beautiful? Is it okay for a man to want to marry a beautiful woman?
We revisit Shabbos Musaf where we will (1) enhance our understanding of the Aramaic 'Yakum Purkan' which we zoom through every week and (2) demonstrate another beautiful variation of 'V'Chol Mi SheOskim' which is pretty popular now (Skip to 16:40). The full, basic Nusach can be found here: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/6321
Who is Officer Yandy Chirino? Why does he matter? Is this actually a Torah discussion? How so? That and some inspiration from Parshas Vayeira.
On Reb Shlomo's Yahrzeit, my brothers R' Daniel and R' Mendy Shlomo return to the Ba'al Tefilah Workshop to join me in discussing (1) the legacy and impact of Reb Shlomo Carlebach on our family the Tefilos of Klal Yisrael, and (2) several tune choices and tips for Reb Shlomo's Yahrzeit Shabbos.
Part 2 begins at 18:00.
Avraham Didn't Sacrifice Yitzchak... Or Did He? You say, 'Of course not!' But, have you read the story? Read it again, but look more closely! This is not just a creepy Bible fan theory! It is one of the several layers of the Parsha Pardeis!
Vayeira records the unflattering story of the daughters of Lot. R' Moshe Feinstein (intro to Igros Moshe, Cheilek 8) records a frightening meta-story about the man who met them. And I just recorded a rant about how to tell these stories.
Although we tend to take the name of Parsha for granted, there's an extra word in ours. 'Lech Lecha.' What does it mean? 'To you'? 'For you'? 'By you'? We might find all of the above and more this week in the four angles of the Parsha Pardeis.
'Mazel Tov' is one of the most well-known Jewish phrases, to Jews and non-Jews alike. But, what does it actually mean? Why do we say it? And don't we learn from Avraham in this week's Parsha that 'Ein Mazel L'Yisrael'?
What exactly was the sin of the Tower Builders? Enter the Pardeis with me as we answer this age-old question according to P'shat, Remez, Drash and Sod.
How righteous was Noach? Why would anyone opt for a derogatory read of Noach? Is that fair? Why do Chazal paint 2 opposite pictures of him? Are they opposite? Join me and my brother R' Daniel for the answers.
The pilot episode of Parsha Paradise/פרשה פרדס! Through the prism of Pardeis, we will explain how man was formed in Bereishis.
Thank you to dear friend Yonah Laster for volunteering this awesome cover artwork!
A broad overview and demo of the Nusach for Simchas Torah Ma'ariv and Shacharis with some appropriate song suggestions (fast and slow) for the Davening pieces (this is NOT a Hakafos Playlist). Among them, we will give special attention to what is simultaneously one of the most popular, and yet one of the little known Simchas Torah tunes. Which tune am I referring to? Stay tuned!
A panoramic view of Parshas V'Zos HaBrachah with a focus on the following questions:
● 1 Sheivet is absent from the Bircas Moshe. Who and why?
● What are Moshe's last words in the Torah? When you locate them, what do they mean?
● Why is Moshe Rabbeinu eulogized in the Torah? Granted, if anyone deserved it, he did. But, is this the place for it? What is the takeaway and take-home point of the Torah? Do we celebrate the shattering of the Luchos? Why?
A workshop going through the meaning, Nusach, and potentially powerful song choices for Tefilas Geshem.
A workshop on the most confusing, inconsistent, unpredictable and complex Davening of the year, Hoshana Rabbah Davening. The Nusach, both in tune and text, features a staggering hybrid of Chol, Yom Tov, Yomim Nora’im, and even Ne'ilah themes! Why is the Davening so inconsistent? While we address that question, we will use the guide provided by Tikun Tefilah to walk through this complicated Davening with demos, tips, and even song suggestions here and there. Wishing you a Gut Mo'eid & a Gut Kvitel (& a Gut Kittel if you're leading this year).
A workshop to assist you with advice and song choices for Halleil and other musical opportunities throughout the week of Succos including Hoshanos/Shabbos Chol HaMo'eid/Sh'mini Atzeres.
• That awkward moment when your neighbor or that staffer at the airport asks you what the palm tree and lemon are for and you have no clue what to answer...
• That awkward moment when you shake the same palm tree and lemon with enthusiasm but have no clue why...
• That awkward moment when you're marching around the Shul with that palm tree and lemon because everyone else is doing it, but no one can explain why...
● What are Hoshanos? We encircle the Torah & Bimah/Mizbei'ach (Altar) with Lulav & Esrog in hand. Great. Why? Gotcha! And what is Hoshana Rabbah about?
● What is the point of Dalet Minim (4 Species) anyway? Why do we shake them?
● The 7 Hakafos (Circuits) of Succos apparently culminate with the 7 Hakafos of Simchas Torah. What's the connection?
A panoramic view of Parshas Ha'azinu with a focus on the following questions:
● What is the point of Shiras Ha'azinu? Is it supposed to be hopeful and encouraging? That is the impression you get from Parshas Vayeilech. But, when you read Ha'azinu, the message and meaning appear to be overwhelmingly negative... That in mind, what is the message and meaning of Ha'azinu? Is there an order or structure to the song?
A few minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Parshas Ha'azinu with a review of Yomim Nora’im.
An overview of the Yom Kippur Machzor which will simplify the otherwise complex Davening and address these basic questions about the themes of the Davening:
● Kol Nidrei is an awkward intro to Yom Kippur. The haunting melody sets the solemn tone well, but the legal nullification of vows does not seem to fit its tune. Moreover, it is kind of strange that rather than making real life commitments and resolutions, we recite a legal loophole that states that we're not bound by our promises. What kind of attitude and message are we trying to project on our way into Yom Kippur?
● Eileh Ezkerah: Why do we devote a section of Yom Kippur Davening to the Asarah Harugei Malchus (10 Martyrs)? Isn't that somewhat 'tone deaf'?
● Why do we lein about Gilui Arayos at Mincha? Why do we take away Mincha's Ashrei-U’Va L’Tziyon and say it in Ne'ilah? What even is Ne'ilah?
The long awaited workshop on the Seder Avodah of Yom Kippur Musaf through Eileh Ezkerah to the end. Here, we cover both the complicated Nusach and several powerful tune options all the way through the end of this Davening.
A workshop on the Hineni as well as part 1 of the Chazaras HaShatz for Yom Kippur Musaf which covers several powerful Piyutim including U'Nesaneh Tokef, Kedushah, Aleinu, and Ochilah (and ends right before the Seder HaAvodas Yom HaKippurim which will be covered in Part 2).
A panoramic view of Parshas Vayeilech with a focus on the following questions:
● The Parsha begins, 'Vayeilech Moshe'-'And Moshe went,' but never discloses WHERE Moshe went. Where was he going?
● What exactly is Hak'heil? Why does Moshe leave this Mitzvah topic for one of his final speeches?
A workshop filled with Nusach, song choices, tips and strategies for all the pieces, Tefilos and Selichos exclusive to Kol Nidrei/Yom Kippur night.
An abridged run-through of the Nusach for Yom Kippur Minchah (somewhat 'controversial'), explanations of the powerful Piyutim, and one particularly awesome 'must-use' song recommendation that I can't recommend more.
Were you taught to throw bread to the fish for Tashlich? Did you know that there are Halachic issues with this Minhag? I hope you can be Mochel me if I ruin Tashlich for you. But, if you give me a chance, in place of our elementary conception of the ancient custom, I'll offer you something much deeper than the blue sea.
A panoramic view of Parshas Nitzavim with a focus on the following questions.
● 'This Mitzvah is not far from you'--which Mitzvah? Ramban says: Teshuvah. Everyone else and an explicit Gemara says that the Pasuk is referring to the Torah at large! How are we supposed to understand this odd 'Machlokes'?
● Why does Moshe need to say 'choose life'? Isn't it obvious?
A workshop on the Chazaras HaShatz for Yom Kippur Shacharis which includes explanations of the Davening, song/tune suggestions and, as always, demos.
A panoramic view of Parshas Ki Savo with a focus on the following questions:
● Why did the nation need to enter a new Bris at Har Eival and Har Gerizim? What was wrong with the old one?
● Why did the B'nei Yisrael need to hear a 2nd Tochachah? What does this one add to the first one?
What exactly is the difference between Tzedakah & Chessed? Are they 2 different Mitzvos? Are they just 2 sides of the same coin? (No pun intended.) Which one is greater?
An overview of the Rosh HaShannah Machzor which will simplify the otherwise complex Davening and address these basic questions about the themes of the Davening:
What is U'Nesaneh Tokef about? Why does Rosh HaShannah have so many themes? What exactly are Malchiyos, Zichronos and Shofaros? Why do we need all 3?
The Yomim Nora'im are an Eis Ratzon for Tefilah, and yet Selichos are not an easy time for anyone. But here is a workshop filled with tips and strategies to help you maximize whatever you can devote to the endeavor of Selichos to make it both fruitful and fulfilling. And of course, there are demos of Nusach and songs special for the 'Opening Night' of Selichos.
A panoramic view of Parshas Ki Seitzei with a focus on the following questions:
● Why weren't Yefas To'ar & the War w/ Amaleik recorded in last week's Parsha which discussed war?
● Is Ki Seitzei just a 'Miscellaneous Mitzvah Mishkabobble' or is there a method to this 'Mitzvah Madness'?
● Ready to understand 74 Mitzvos in Under 45 Minutes?
Looking forward to standing in Shul with a Machzor for hours? Do you dread the Yomim Nora’im for all the wrong reasons? Do the 'Days of Awe' sometimes seem more like the 'Days of Ugh'? Maybe you're excited because you're Davening in the Minyan with the best Chazzan ever and the singing is going to be great. But, does the singing actually help you understand the Davening or is it just a convenient distraction? What if I told you that you didn't have to rely on the 'perfect Chazzan,' but that you could be intrinsically inspired? At Machzor Manager, we embark on that journey.
A packed workshop for Rosh HaShannah Musaf which takes you from the Hineni through the Chazaras HaShatz, from the opening, to U'Nesaneh Tokef, through Malchiyos, Zichronos, and Shofaros, and all the way to the end of the Davening.
A panoramic view of Parshas Shoftim with a focus on the following questions:
● Is All Fair in Torah & War?
● Why does the Torah interrupt the war series to discuss Eglah Arufah?
A panoramic view of Parshas Re'eih with a focus on the following questions:
● Why is the Bris at Har Eival/Har Gerizim introduced here if it's going to appear again in Ki Savo?
● Why do we need Yerushalayim if Hashem is here, Hashem is there, Hashem is truly everywhere...'
BS'D, a PACKED workshop on the Chazaras HaShatz (Chazan's Repetition) of Rosh HaShannah for BOTH days 1 AND 2. Day 2 can be found at around 55-57 minutes in. Filled with Nusach, Hashkafah, Havanah, tips, strategies, and song options. Enjoy the marathon. More to come, be'H.
Here are 5-6 powerful and popular tune options for Shabbos Mevarchim Elul and Rosh Chodesh Elul.
Also, we revisit an important question: Can you Daven for Yiras Shamayim? We appear to in the text of our Davening, so why not? The problem is that Chazal teach that 'everything is in the hands of heaven except awe of heaven.' So, how could we ask heaven to grant it to us?
A panoramic view of Parshas Eikev with a focus on the following questions:
• Why does Moshe keep abandoning chronological order?
• 'Shema/V'Ahavta' & 'V'Hayah Im Shamo'a' say almost the same thing. Why say it twice?
Why do we Bentch? To show gratitude? Because the Torah said so? If it's for gratitude, why do we need to be commanded? If it's a commandment, is it pure gratitude? Why isn't it enough to just say, 'Thank you for the food?' Why is the formula for Bentching so complicated and specific, that we have to mention Bris, Torah, Eretz Yisrael and Malchus Beis Dovid just because we ate a slice or 2 of pizza for lunch? The answer can be found in a history lesson in our Parsha.
The Yomim Nora'im Marathon continues with Shacharis Part I which will provide an overview for Birchos HaShachar and Pesukei D'Zimrah and then walk you leisurely through Shacharis from the pre-HaMelech Niggun to HaMelech all the way through Go'al Yisrael. (Stay tuned for Rosh HaShannah Chazaras HaShatz, Days 1 & 2.)
The Yomim Nora'im Marathon resumes with Ma'ariv. We'll review the Nusach and Niggunim for both Rosh HaShannah and Yom Kippur (minus the additional Piyutim/Selichos for Yom Kippur; stay tuned for the Kol Nidrei Night Workshop), taking you from the opening Nay-Nays/Borchu through the final Kaddish, including demos of several variations and tune incorporations as well as some tips, strategies, and Kavanah pointers.
A panoramic view of Parshas Va'Es'chanan with a focus on the following questions:
● Va'Es'chanan begins with a memory about Moshe's rejected prayers that Hashem allow him entry into Eretz Yisrael. Why? How is that relevant to Moshe's discussion here?
● Why does Moshe interrupt his own speech to separate 3 of the Cities of Refuge?
● How did Va'Es'chanan become the Parsha of Moshe's 'Most Quotable Quotes'?
• What is Tu B'Av and what is it not?
• Why is this holiday so special, compared with Yom Kippur?
• Why is Tu B'Av a special time for Shidduchim?
• Don't hurt me for this one, but what is 'Love'? Or what is the Torah approach to understanding Ahavah between husband and wife?
A workshop filled with thematically appropriate and moving tune options for Shabbos Nachamu, Va'Es'chanan, and Tu B'Av.
The message is simple: Tish'ah B'Av is NOT over, at least not for most intents and purposes (not the most important ones anyway). We're still in Galus and the Churban has not been reversed. So, what do we do now?
What if I honestly just can't bring myself to cry on Tish'ah B’Av? What if I'm not so emotional? Am I a bad person? Am I just bad at Avodas Hashem and Ahavas Yisrael? Are there appropriate alternative emotions to express on Tish'ah B’Av?
A panoramic view of Parshas Devarim with a focus on the following questions:
• What is this book about? It's clearly not JUST a 'Review' of the Torah.
• Why does Moshe skip so much of the history and splice together the stories like the Institution of Judges and the Miraglim which seem mostly unrelated?
Hopefully, this workshop will not be relevant, but here, we will discuss Nusach and the other Tefilah-related Minhagim brought down in Tikun Tefilah for Bein HaMeitzarim, Shabbos Chazon, and Tish'ah B’Av.
Rashi indicates that Moshe Rabbeinu, on his exalted level, erred on 3 occasions due to Ka'as, anger. Perhaps that's a record low for human standards, but the fact that each of his mess-ups w due to anger is telling. Why do we struggle with anger? What is particularly evil and toxic about anger? Is there ever a place for anger? And what is perhaps the secret to management of Ka'as? Let's see some sources and attempt to offer a Torah approach to anger management.
In this shorter workshop, we get somewhat creative with Nusach and offer an artful way to recite Ya'aleh V'Yavo during Shabbos Rosh Chodesh Minchah which subtly incorporates both the Shabbos Minchah Nusach and the Rosh Chodesh Nusach almost seamlessly and simultaneously.
A panoramic view of Parshas Mattos-Mas'ei with a focus on the following questions:
● Why does Mattos begin with Nedarim?
● How does Bamidbar end? Why is its ending so forgettable?
What is so special of the line of Atoh Yatzarta that it earned the Yomim Nora’im Nusach? Is there a parallel line and theme anywhere in Yomim Nora'im Davening? What is the line about anyway?
In this shorter workshop, we will review the unique Nusach of this hybrid Shmoneh Esreih (with some points from R' Serayah Dublitsky's Tikun Tefilah) and discuss the origins and meaning of Atoh Yatzarta.
You may also be interested in:
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/9912
The 'Fancy but Precise' Nusach for Shabbos-Rosh Chodesh Musaf 🕯🕯🌙
The first Yomim Nora’im Davening one typically does to demonstrate that he knows the Nusach is Rosh HaShannah Minchah. If YOU are getting your feet wet in the Yomim Nora’im Nusach, here's a workshop for you. Plus, listen out for some surprising Chiddushim ('Nusach notes') from R' Serayah Dublitsky's master work on Nusach, Tikun Tefilah.
A panoramic view of Parshas Pinchas with a focus on the following questions:
● Balak ended with Pinchas's execution of Zimri who sinned with the Midianite princess Cozbi amidst of a plague targeting the B'nei Yisrael in response to their intermarriage/assimilation/idolatry. Pinchas picks up with Hashem’s response, the public recognition and promotion of Pinchas to Priesthood. As these are clearly two parts of a single story, why are they separated into two different Sidros?
● Hashem commands the B'nei Yisrael to do war with Midian, who assisted Moav in seducing Israel toward idolatry. But, why NOT also do war with Moav?
● Why are the 'periodic' Korbanos here and not in Sefer Vayikra?
Here are at least 6 Heartzig/soulful tune suggestions for Kiddush HaChodesh for Shabbos Mevarchim Menachem Av (with some demos).
Plus, we tackle a unique challenge this month: What is the appropriate way and mood for singing Halleil for Chodesh Av?
Solutions and song suggestions (with some demos) can be found here.
The Yomim Nora'im Kickoff Workshop/Shiur and most important workshop of the upcoming series.
We'll not only discuss what this series will cover and why these Yomim Nora’im recordings will be different than the others out there, but we'll cover some of the crucial but often neglected Halachos/Hashkafos about the heightened qualifications for being Chazan.
Sources, Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 53 & 581 with Rama and Mishnah Berurah.
Whether you're the Chazan or not don't go into Selichos for Shivah Asar B'Tamuz having no clue what your saying. In this workshop, we will review the Nusach for Selichos, but more importantly, focus on the meaning of the words of the Selichos and the five tragedies they describe.
Hashem must have a sense of humor if He laughs every time man plans. But, who would have thought that was into puns? I can understand why you and I might enjoy some good wordplay, but why does the Torah care so much to wax poetically? Here, we'll discuss several examples of puns and poetry in Torah and some of the comments of the M’forshim and even later commentators to get a better of understanding of the Torah's apparent 'sense of humor.'
• Why do we quote Bil'am, a wicked gentile, in our Davening?
• Why doesn't Davening 'work'? Bil'am will tell us...
In this Parsha edition of Ba'al Tefilah Workshop, we will explore the meaning and depth of 'Mah Tovu,' discuss some places to use its tune this Shabbos, and we'll learn an incredible insight about Davening from none other than Bil'am himself.
A panoramic view of Parshas Balak with a focus on the following questions:
● Why did the Torah NEED to tell the story of Balak & Bil'am? What is practical impact of the narrative?
● Why Does the Torah decide NOW to take us behind the curtain and show us what the enemies are saying?
● How exactly did Bil'am come up with his incredibly successful Plan B after falling completely flat with Plan A?
What exactly is PUAH? What role does PUAH play in the world of infertility and Halachah?
What does the name mean?
How can you participate in the incredible Avodas HaKodesh that PUAH does every day?
Join me and PUAH Rabbinic Advisor of America, Rabbi Elan Segelman here!
Donate to R' Eisenberg's team page using the link below:
https://www.charityextra.com/puah/31814
• Why is Anim Zemiros called the 'Shir HaKavod' (Song of Glory)? What is so glorious about it? Do we treat it with its due honor?
• What do the words of the poem mean?
• Why ask a child to lead it?
• What tune should I use for it? I'll give you 15 right now (more upon request)!
A panoramic view of Parshas Chukas with a focus on the following questions:
● Why is Parah Adumah here and not in Sefer Vayikra?
● History seems to repeat itself several times in Parshas Chukas. What other Parsha does Chukas remind you of?
This famous medical finds its origins in this week's Parsha, though it took a detour through Greek Mythology before reaching its final destination. But, there's something very ironic about the logo... Can you guess why? Also, was Moshe's serpent statue on a pole not an Avodah Zarah waiting to happen? Not only was it waiting to happen, but in the times of the Melachim, it DID happen! What do I mean? Find out here.
A few more minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Parshas Korach.
Typed version:
http://torahquest.com/the-search-for-emes-korach-lrefuah-shileimah-menachem-mendel-shlomo-ben-chaya-rochel-lilui-nishmas-kayla-rus-bas-bunim-tuvia-ah-dovid-tzvi-ben-yosef/
You don't have to be a musical expert or even know how to read music to be conscious of details like acoustics and key choices when Davening for the Amud. In this workshop, we'll talk about a few things to conscious of when 'choosing your key' as you begin Davening, for example, a Shabbos Shacharis, Musaf, or Kabbalas Shabbos.
You may also be interested in:
BTW - Who is Qualified to be a Ba'al Tefilah? 🤷🏼♂️
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/3455
BTW - 5 Things Every Ba'al Tefilah Must Know 🤚🏻
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/3586
A panoramic view of Parshas Korach with a focus on the following question:
Why was Korach's campaign delayed until now?
Politics is one of the basically unavoidable realities of life. But, politics didn't begin in 2021 or even in 2015 or 2008. It has existed forever, in Torah no less. Although politics even predate this week's Parsha, Korach is an easy headquarters for the subject. In this atypical Shiur, we'll not only discuss Korach, but also some other places in Tanach where politics and propaganda played a role as well as what we can learn from the.
A panoramic view of Parshas Shelach with a focus on the following questions:
The ending of Shelach artfully and subtly announces itself in the Parsha of Tzitzis. The Parsha of Tzitzis warns us not to 'spy out after our hearts and our eyes,' clearly winking back at the opening story of the Parsha.
But what does the Mitzvah of Tzitzis itself have to do with 'spying'? And if Tzitzis is the apparent cap on Shelach, then what does that say about all of the passages in between? What do Menachos, Nesachim, Challah, Se'ir LaAvodah Zarah, and the M'Kosheish have to do with the Miraglim?
A few solemn but uplifting and appropriate tune options (with demos) for Kiddush HaChodesh for Shabbos Mevarchim Tamuz and for Halleil for Rosh Chodesh Tamuz, HaBa Aleinu L'Tovah.
A few minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Parshas Shelach, Shivah Asar B'Tamuz, and Tishah B’Av.
A panoramic view of Parshas B'Ha'alosecha with a focus on the following questions:
● We seem to receive mixed messages about the state of Klal Yisrael.
From Pesach Sheini to the faithful travel system, the Torah depicts Klal Yisrael in an overwhelmingly positive light. They seem inspired and optimistic.
However, a series of unfortunate events unfolds in the latter half which reflects negatively on Klal Yisrael. They seem jaded and bitter. Is there a reason for this transition? What was the turning point?
● Topical issues:
Between the Menorah, Pesach Sheini, the consecration of Levi, and the chaos that breaks loose in the Midbar, there does not seem to be a single, unifying theme.
Is there a method to the topics discussed? We'll be focusing on the approach of the Sforno, be'H.
● There is apparently a new 'Sefer,' bracketed in between backwards Letter Nun's [׆]...
Chazal say the 'book' was relocated from its original spot and the Nun's serve as 'signs' that this 'book' was moved. Chazal say it was inserted to 'separate two tragedies.' We don't find this anywhere else in the Torah. What exactly is the idea behind this separation?
A few approaches to the musical Havdalah for your next Shabbaton, special Motza’ei Shabbos program, Kiruv/Chazan gig, etc.
Among his comments following both the Meiron tragedy and the Hamas missiles, HaGa'on R' Chaim Kanievsky Shlit'a was quoted as recommending that we be more scrupulous in our observance of Hilchos Netilas Yadayim L'Seudah [O.C. 158-164].
• Why did he underscore this area of Halachah? We can only speculate. Maybe he knows something we don't (besides for Kol HaTorah Kulah).
• Regardless, you will be surprised how many details of Hilchos Netilas Yadayim you either never knew or remembered incorrectly. It's a great time to brush up...or wash up.
https://halachipedia.com/index.php?title=Netilat_Yadayim_for_a_Meal
https://www.theyeshivaworld.com/news/headlines-breaking-stories/1970752/what-did-hagaon-harav-chaim-kanievsky-say-about-the-meron-disaster.html?fbclid=IwAR1txSGgRbT6a8Ss97fjlsu-MsVyYc5tBnKJzG14QU_ss0uZwp2_pC0_qJM
Can you finish this sequence?
'Korbano Ka'aras Kesef Achas...'
Great. What does it mean? Can you describe the tribute in your own words? How many objects and animals did each Nassi offer?
If you're having trouble, don't be discouraged. But, let's talk about it.
A panoramic view of Parshas Nasso with a focus on the following questions:
▪︎As was mentioned last week, Kehas's job was recorded in the end of Parshas Bamidbar. Why not here? Or why not put Gershon/Merari's jobs there?
▪︎There are a few seemingly miscellaneous topics discussed in Nasso that do not seem to fit at all with the Number/Tribal theme of Bamidbar that we have seen thus far such as Gezel from a Geir, and the 'partner topics' of Sotah and Nazir.
Why, in fact, does Nasso discuss these topics? (HINT: See R' Hirsch)
A panoramic view of Parshas Bamidbar with a focused on the following question:
• Why does Bamidbar abandon chronological order? What is Bamidbar about?
Suppose they ask you to recite the Haftarah on Shavuos. Sounds easy, right? Until you realize it's the second day and you have to recite the Aramaic poem of Yetziv Pisgam. What is Yetziv Pisgam anyway? Where did it come from? Why do we say it? What do the words mean? How does the tune for that go again?
On Shavuos morning, it is WAY too late to try to understand the meaning of the 90 Aramaic verses of Akdamus. It happens to be an absolutely beautiful Piyut. But, what is it about? Based on a recommendation from listeners like you, here's a workshop going through the Nusach and meaning of Akdamus Milin.
Erev Rosh Chodesh Sivan is the designated time for Tefilas HaShlah, a prayer for children who are Talmidei Chachamim. What exactly is the meaning of this Tefilah? And what exactly makes this precise window such an auspicious time for this Tefilah?
What is the Midah of Malchus? How to we harness it and rectify it?
Are there more than 48 Kinyanei Torah? (Count them carefully.)
Why didn't Chazal enumerate 49 Kinyanei Torah to correspond precisely to the 49 days of Sefiras HaOmer?
Join us in the Season Finale of the Sefirah Series for answers.
A few minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Parshas B'Har-B'Chukosai.
Typed version:
http://torahquest.com/bhar-bchukosai-the-hovering-mountain-lrefuah-shileimah-menachem-mendel-shlomo-ben-chaya-rochel-lilui-nishmas-kayla-rus-bas-bunim-tuvia-ah-dovid-tzvi-ben/
A panoramic view of Parshas B'Har-B'Chukosai with a focus on the following questions:
▪︎Why does the end of Vayikra set the stage at Har Sinai?
▪︎Why does the Torah discuss Sh'mitah here at the end of Vayikra? Why not discuss it 'at Har Sinai' in Sefer Shemos?
▪︎Why does Vayikra close with the anticlimactic topics of Arachin and Temurah?
The Or HaChaim famously composed 42 explanations of the opening line of Parshas B'Chukosai, spanning all levels Pardeis.
▪︎ Who was the Or HaChaim?
▪︎ Why did he write 42 explanations of this Pasuk? 'Who knows 42?'
▪︎ What even ARE the 42 explanations?
Find out here in well under 42 minutes! 👇🏻
https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/14343
(If you want my PDF of the 42 P'shatim summarized in English, please reach out to me at TheDataBeis@gmail.com. )
Ahead of Z'man Matan Toraseinu, here is a workshop filled with beautiful, Torah-themed song options, both fast and slow, for Shabbos Mevarchim Sivan, Rosh Chodesh Sivan, and maybe even Shavuos itself (with demos of course).
▪︎ What is the Midah of Yesod, 'Foundation'? How do we apply it and rectify it?
▪︎How do we balance Resilience & Submission? What is the difference between the mediation of Tiferes and that of Yesod?
In Week 6 of the Sefirah Series, we'll attempt to address these questions and discuss the next 7 Kinyanei Torah (36-42).
A few minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Parshas Emor and Lag BaOmer.
This Shiur is dedicated to the Refuah of those injured in the tragic Meiron incident tonight as well as to the Ilui Neshamah of those who were killed in the incident.
What is the Avodah and 'Simchah' of Lag BaOmer? Why do we deserve to take a field day on Lag BaOmer? What are we celebrating? Why do we celebrate in the manner we do?
This Shiur is dedicated to the Refuah of those injured in the tragic Meiron incident tonight as well as to the Ilui Neshamah of those who were killed in the incident.
A panoramic view of Parshas Emor with a focus on the following questions:
● Most of Emor is devoted to the laws of Kohanim and the Moadim. What is the connection between the two?
● Why are the laws of the Menorah and Shulchan thrown into the Parsha, right after the Moadim?
● Why does Vayikra veer from its law format to present a story of the M'kaleil ('Curser') here at the end of Emor?
In honor of the upcoming Lag BaOmer and the Hillula of Rebbi Shimon Bar Yochai, let us attempt to understand the most famous piece of Zohar (Vayak'heil 206A), 'B'rich Shimeih' ('Blessed is the Name') which most of Klal Yisrael recites 4x weekly.
• Although it's well-known, how well-known is it really? Why do we recite it? And when we do, do we understand the meaning of its esoteric, Aramaic words?
▪︎What is the Midah of 'Hod' or 'majesty'? How do we apply and rectify ourselves in this area?
▪︎If Hod is the opposite of Netzach, and Netzach represents resilience, then does that mean Hod represents giving up? How is that a Midah commendable? Moreover, isn't 'giving in' the complete opposite of what Lag BaOmer is about?
▪︎Also, how does Hod shed light on the next 7 Kinyanei Torah of Pirkei Avos 6:6?
A few minutes of Mussar and inspiration for Parshas Emor, Pesach Sheini, Lag BaOmer, and every day.
A panoramic view of Parshas Acharei Mos-Kedoshim with a focus on the following questions: ● What is the connection between Acharei Mos & Kedoshim? ● What is the connection between Avodas Yom Kippur & the Arayos? ● Is there any structure to the "Miscellaneous Mitzvah Mishkabobble" in Kedoshim?
Structure to Mitzvos in Kedoshim: 1. Kedoshim Tihiyu 2. Mora Av VaEim (revere parents) & Shabbos 3. Avodas Elilim/Elohei Maseichah 4. Zevachim/Pigul & Matnas Ani'im Matanos include: ○ Pe'ah/Leket of Field ○ Oleil/Peret of Vineyard 5. Societal Laws: □ SUBSET A - Honesty in Business: ○ Geneivah (theft) ○ Hakchashah (denial) ○ L'Shakeir (to lie) ○ Shevuas Sheker (swear falsely) □ SUBSET B - Business/Social Tyranny; Taking Advantage of Underlings: ○ Oshek (cheating in business) ○ Gezel (robbery, outward) ○ Linas Peulas Sachir (withhold wages) ○ Killelas Cheireish (cursing the deaf) ○ "Lifnei Iveir..." (misguiding the unsuspecting) □ SUBSET C - Perversion of Justice, "Avel BaMishpat": ○ Sisa P'nei Dal (favoring the poor) ○ Se'dar P'nei Gadol (honoring the "great") ○ B'Tzedek Tishpot (judge fairly) ○ Rechilus (gossip) ○ Ha'amadah Al Dam (neglecting someone in danger) □ SUBSET D - Love of Mankind: ○ Sinas Achim (hating brother) ○ Hochachah (proper rebuke) ○ Lo Sisa Alav Cheit (Rashi: embarrassing; See Ramban, Meshech Chochmah) ○ Nekamah (vengeance) ○ Netirah (bear grudge) ○ "V'Ohavta L'Rei'acha Kamocha" (love your fellow...) 》》》Transition to Chukim《《《 6. Forbidden Mixtures: ○ Kil'ei Beheimah (crossbreeding animals) ○ Kil'ei Zera'im/Kerem (crossbreeding plants) ○ Kil'ei Begadim/Sha'atneiz (combining "fibers") ○ Shifchah Charufah (cohabitation with a half-free slave-woman) 7. Orlah/Rev'ai (Restrictions on Produce of 3rd/4th year) 8. Disgraceful Practices: □ SUBSET A - Intellectual & Bodily ○ Achilah Al Dam ("eating by blood" Lav SheB'Klalos) ○ Nichush (divination) ○ S'onein (following omens) ○ Hashchasas Pe'as Rosh (destroying Peyos) ○ Hashchasas Pe'as Zekan ("..." beard) ○ Seritah (body mutilation/cutting) ○ Kesoves Ka'ka (tattooing) □ SUBSET B - Kedushah/Taharah (& the Land): ○ Zenus (harlotry) ○ Shabbos & Mora Mikdash (revere the Mikdash) □ SUBSET C - Communication with the Dead/Future Seeking: ○ Ov ○ Yid'oni 9. Respect: □ SUBSET A - Your "Elders": ○ "M'Pnei Seivah" (standing for elder) ○ Hadaras Zakein (honoring a "sage"*) □ SUBSET B - The Convert: ○ Ona'ah (taunting him) ○ Ahavah (love him) 10. Corrupt Weights & Measures
The answer to this question may not be a Chiddush, but you can consider this discussion a worthy thought exercise for aspiring Yarei Shamayim of any (political) affiliation who were brought up surrounded by the American culture, values and legal system.
A short workshop on some Nusach for Kiddush on Leil Shabbos and the Kiddusha Rabba of Yom Shabbos.
What is Netzach? How in the world does one apply and rectify the Midah of "Triumph" or "Eternity"? In Week 4 of the Sefirah Series, we explore that issue as well as the next 7 major "Kinyanei Torah." There are some invaluable treasures this week.
A few minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Parshas Tazria-Metzora.
Typed version: http://torahquest.com/the-best-impurity-tazria-metzora-lrefuah-shileimah-menachem-mendel-shlomo-ben-chaya-rochel-lilui-nishmas-kayla-rus-bas-bunim-tuvia-ah-dovid-tzvi-ben-yosef-yochanan/
Whether or not we celebrate 5 Iyar, whether or not we recite Halleil, and whether or not we do so with a Brachah, as B'nei Yisrael, Eretz Yisrael is what we all have in common. Whether or not we are religious, we love the land. The question is why we love Eretz Yisrael. Do we all have the same answer to that question? Should we? Is the answer obvious? Should it be? Are there wrong answers? Let's talk!
Breaking down and walking you through the the paragraphs of extended Tachanun, providing Kavanah and Havanah (intention and understanding) and hopefully changing our Tachanun forever.
A panoramic view of Parshiyos Tazria and Metzora with a focus on the following questions: ● Why is the Torah discussing ritual impurity now? ● Is there Structure to the Tumah Topics? ● Why are the laws of Metzora's Purification and Bayis HaMenuga not in Tazria with the other laws of Tzara'as? ● Why is Yoledes separated from the Parsha of Nidah and the other "bodily emissions"?
Are you ready to say Tachanun again? Why not? Can we fix that? Why do we struggle with this Tefilah? Do we even know what Tachanun is about? Do we appreciate the power of a heartfelt Tachanun?
What is Tiferes? What is Midah of "Splendor"? Does mercy contradict justice? What are the next 7 "Kinyanei Torah"?
A panoramic view of Parshas Sh'mini with a focus on the following questions: ● What is the role of this single narrative of Nadav and Avihu in Sefer Vayikra? ● If Nadav and Avihu WEREN'T drunk, why was Aharon warned here about the prohibition of drinking intoxicants before entering the Ohel Mo'eid? ● How did we get from Nadav & Avihu to Kashrus & Sheratzim?
Hashkafic highlights from my maternal grandfather (Grandpa David Abrams, Dovid Tzvi Ben Yosef Yochanan A"H) in his Holocaust testimonial video. For the full story and video, click the link below: https://youtu.be/2ZVCgkqLsZ8
In this workshop, we identify at least 3 relevant themes for Chodesh Iyar and provide some tune options for those themes to be incorporated into Kiddush HaChodesh and Halleil.
In the second week of the Sefirah Series, we will (1) "meditate" on the Midas Gevurah, (2) discuss the meaning of the next 7 "Kinyanei Torah" (modes of Torah acquisition) enumerated in Pirkei Avos 6:6, from "Anavah" to "Yishuv," and (3) address the following question: Is the fact that the deaths of Rebbi Akiva's students coincided with Sefirah in fact a mere coincidence?
What is the Secret Avodah of 2nd Days? The Seder is over, so what do we do now? Continue talking about the Exodus? Are we supposed to use the remainder of Pesach to share all of the Divrei Torah on the Haggadah which we have not yet already shared during the Sedarim? Is there a new goal on the horizon?
Are they going to ask you to Daven AGAIN this Pesach? Running out of tunes? "V'Hi SheOmdah" has already been used 30x this past week? Not to worry! In this workshop, I will provide you a whole new selection of great song choices to help you maximize your Ba'al Tefilah experience for the remainder of this Pesach from Chol HaMo'eid to 2nd Days with options for Halleil, Shabbos Davenings, and Kedushah for both Shacharis and Musaf.
Generic Halleil Workshop: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/4608 "Fast" Halleil Workshop: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/7976
Shalosh Regalim Davenings - Ma'ariv: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/12566 Shacharis: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/12609 Musaf: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/12612 Minchah: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/12658
In the first week of the Sefirah Series, we will (1) "meditate" on how not only to better apply the Midas Chessed, but how to become balanced Ba'alei Chessed, and (2) discuss the meaning of the first 7 "Kinyanei Torah" (modes of Torah acquisition) enumerated in Pirkei Avos 6:6.
Is it time to put the Mo'eid back in Chol HaMo'eid? How do we do that? Also, what is the purpose of Chol HaMo'eid? Why do we have two 7(8)-day holidays with "intermediate" days?
A crash course in Sefiras HaOmer, in P'shat, Drash and a little bit of Sod, addressing the Halachic, Hashkafic, agricultural, and historical significance, as well as touching on the Kabbalistic significance.
Are you leading the Seder this year? Are you the designated singer or Ruach guy at the Seder? Are you prepared to recite the Yaknaha"z Kiddush with a perfect blend of traditional Nusach and some unique style and flair? Wondering how to balance keeping the Seder focused, Leibadik, and manageable for all the participants? Looking for some tune options? Listen here!
A no-nonsense, guide Shiur on what is what in the Haggadah; point by point, line by line. What is the meaning and goal of each part? Even if you've been doing the Seder for 20+, 50+, or even 70+ years, you will be surprised by what you may have not known about the Seder process and how to do it right. Enrich your understanding of the Seder experience and really know the Haggadah like you've never known it before.
The Shmoneh Esreih of Yom Tov Minchah is the easy part; it's the typical Shalosh Regalim Nusach. But, that only starts at the conclusion of Kedushah. Here, we'll focus primarily on what Nusach to use from Ashrei up until that point.
The Shalosh Regalim Marathon continues with Part III, Musaf including meaning of the Davening with demos which will also the introductory Piyut of Kah Keili, Birchas Kohanim.
What does it mean to "blunt the teeth" of the Rasha or the Wicked Son in the Haggadah? Is the Haggadah actually endorsing any violent treatment of this son? Is that helpful? Is there no more more civil way to address his questions? Also, what does the Rasha look like in real life? And, based on the true meaning of the Haggadah's instructions, how are we supposed to answer him? An important read: http://torahquest.com/a-response-letter-pesach-lilui-nishmas-kayla-rus-bas-bunim-tuvia-ah-dovid-tzvi-ben-yosef-yochanan-ah/
It's a "3 legged race" here at Ba'al Tefilah Workshop as we begin the Shalosh Regalim Marathon with part 1, the Nusach for Shalosh Regalim Ma'ariv.
A panoramic view of Parshas Tzav with a focus on the following questions: ● Parshas Vayikra discussed Korbanos. If you were paying attention, you might have noticed that Tzav discusses the SAME Korbanos. What then does Tzav add to Vayikra? ● If you were paying even more attention, you might have noticed that the order of the Korbanos change between Vayikra and Tzav. Why did that happen? Vayikra's order: 1. Olah 2. Minchah 3. Shelamim 4. Chattas 5. Asham Tzav's order: 1. Olah 2. Minchah 3. Chattas 4. Asham 5. Shelamim WHY did the order change?
■ Why is Shabbos HaGadol called Shabbos HaGadol? Why is this Shabbos greater than others? IS it greater? ■ And is Shabbos HaGadol really this coming Shabbos (which is also Erev Pesach) or was it last Shabbos? ■ Why is there a Minhag to read the Haggadah this Shabbos? ■ What can we learn from the Haftarah and Yotzros of Shabbos HaGadol? We'll cite several, fascinating answers to these questions.
A panoramic view of Parshas Vayikra with a focus on the following questions: ● Why is the Sefer called "Vayikra"-"And He called"? Who is calling out and why is He yelling? What's the big announcement? ● What is the point of Korbanos? Why are we learning about Korbanos now anyway? What is the meaning of each kind of Korban?
What if I told you that we just might have been reading the Haggadah the wrong way for most of our lives? Yes, we are all familiar with the Haggadah and probably have tens if not hundreds of our own Haggados, but what exactly is the Haggadah? What is the point of the Haggadah? What does a "good Haggadah" look like? What does a successful Seder look like? Let's talk.
Just in time for Pesach, a workshop focusing on the background, meaning, and Nusach of Tefilas Tal, or the Prayer of Dew.
A few minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Parshas HaChodesh & Vayak'heil-Pekudei.
Typed version: http://torahquest.com/hachodesh-vayakheil-pekudei-reset-reboot-lrefuah-shileimah-menachem-mendel-shlomo-ben-chaya-rochel-lilui-nishmas-kayla-rus-bas-bunim-tuvia-ah-dovid-tzvi-ben-yos/
A panoramic view of Parshas Vayak'heil-Pekudei with a focus on the following questions: ● What do Vayak'heil-Pekudei add to Terumah-Tetzaveh? Why do the Mishkan details bear repeating? Why do these Parshiyos exist? Could they not have been condensed into a single verse? ● Why does Sefer Shemos end with Vayak'heil-Pekudei?
A workshop filled with a selection of over 5 tune options (with demos) which you might want to consider using this Nissan and Pesach season, whether in Kiddush HaChodesh or in Halleil.
Generic Halleil https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/4608 Kiddush HaChodesh - General & Customized https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/3856
Why was Rosh Chodesh the first Mitzvah we received as a nation? Hashem could have given us all of the Hilchos Pesach and made Pesach the first day of the calendar year and Korban Pesach the first Mitzvah. Why DIDN'T He do that? Why did He begin with Rosh Chodesh and then leave Pesach for the middle of the month, leaving open a two-week window? And now that we've reached the end of the "4 Parshiyos," what has this series truly been about?
Series Intro: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/9649
Part I - Shekalim: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/9945
Part II - Zachor: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/10224
Part III - Parah: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/11153
Extra reading on the 4 Parshiyos: https://www.yeshiva.co/midrash/13332
Extra reading on Yotzros/Krovos for the 4 Parshiyos: http://jerroldlandau.com/piyutMyk.php
Everybody makes mistakes, even the best Chazzanim. But what do you so once you've made a mistake? An effective Ba'al Tefilah will know how to get back on track smoothly. In this workshop, my brothers R' Daniel and R' Mendy join me for the second BTW Panel where we discuss different types of mistakes one might make at the Amud and some tips to recover from those mistakes.
There is a "Minhag Tov" for women not to engage as much in Melachah on Rosh Chodesh [Shulchan Aruch, O.C. 417] because, for some reason, Rosh Chodesh is a "woman's holiday." Why exactly is it a woman’s holiday? How exactly did it become one? What can we learn from women's special connection to Rosh Chodesh?
A few minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Parshas Parah and Parshas Ki Sisa.
For the written version: http://torahquest.com/parah-ki-sisa-just-a-cowincidence-lrefuah-shileimah-menachem-mendel-shlomo-ben-chaya-rochel-lilui-nishmas-kayla-rus-bas-bunim-tuvia-ah-dovid-tzvi-ben-yosef-yochanan-ah-moshe-ben-yos/
A panoramic view of Parshas Ki Sisa with a focus on the following questions: ● Why is Ki Sisa so long? Was there no other Parsha to put all the Mishkan leftovers in? Why weren't they listed in Terumah or Tetzaveh? Do they have anything to do with the Cheit HaEigel? ● What exactly was the sin of the Cheit HaEigel? Did anyone really believe that the model cow they had just made actually brought the people forth from Egypt? Of course not. It was meant to serve as a medium to contact Hashem. If so, what was so terrible and unforgivable about it?
Is there a fundamental relationship between ancient paganism and modern atheism? My brother R' Mendy joins me to discuss some thoughts about the Cheit HaEigel and different forms of Avodah Zarah both in times of old and in our generation.
When is the best time to incorporate "Shabbos songs" into Davening? And what is the best way to fit them in? In this workshop, we'll answer these questions with some thoughts and demos.
What exactly is Parshas Parah about and why do we read about it now? Is it a preparation for Pesach or a response to the Golden Calf or both? Also, what is so mysterious and unknowable about Parah Adumah that even Moshe Rabbeinu and Shlomo HaMelech could not fully comprehend it?
Series Intro: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/9649 Part I - Shekalim: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/9945 Part II - Zachor: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/10224
Extra reading on the 4 Parshiyos: https://www.yeshiva.co/midrash/13332
Extra reading on Yotzros/Krovos for the 4 Parshiyos: http://jerroldlandau.com/piyutMyk.php
A few more minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Purim and Parshas Tetzaveh. For the written version: http://torahquest.com/tetzaveh-shushan-purim-for-someone-else-lrefuah-shileimah-menachem-mendel-shlomo-ben-chaya-rochel-lilui-nishmas-kayla-rus-bas-bunim-tuvia-ah-dovid-tzvi-ben-yosef-yochanan-ah-moshe-be/
Overindulgence in alcohol as well as MANY other Purim festivities, do not appear to fit the Jewish ideal of celebration and Simchah, yet these controversial practices seem either permitted or even supported by the Poskim. How are these Purim festivities NOT considered to be highly inappropriate? What exactly is the spirit of "V'Nohafuch Hu" or the whimsical, topsy-turvy nature of Purim? Where does it even come from? Is there a wrong way to tap into that spirit? Undoubtedly, yes. Then, what is the correct way? How and when is it ever okay? And, WHY, on Purim, is it okay?
We all know the Purim story, but do we know the answers to some of these obvious questions? • What was Achashveirosh celebrating? What was his fight with Vashti about? Why wouldn't he flat-out rescind on Haman's decree? • Was Vashti a "Woman of Power"? Why did she have a party just for women? • Mordechai is the hero, but wasn't he also the instigator? • Esther - Mordechai's Daughter or Wife? • Bigsan/Seresh - How important are they? Why didn't Mordechai just let Achashveirosh die? • Was Haman really an Antisemite or was he just a petty narcissist? • Zeresh - What can we learn from the two times we hear from Haman's Eizer K'Negdo? Her advice to hang Mordechai was idiotic irrational from its inception. Why did she misguide her husband? • Who was Charvonah? Does he really deserve to be "remembered for good"? • Hashem - What does He want us to take from the Purim story? How should the story affect our relationship with Him?
A double-decker workshop for Purim covering Selichos for Ta'anis Esther & the (Yomim Nora'im) Ma'ariv for the night of Purim. In the Selichos portion, we focus not only on Nusach (tune), but on specific Kavanah (intent) and Havanah (understanding) of the text. Give this session a listen and you'll never read these Selichos the same way again.
A panoramic view of Parshas Tetzaveh with a focus on the following questions: ● Why is Tetzaveh separate from Terumah? Is Tetzaveh just Terumah Part II? What is Tetzaveh about? ● Why was the command for the oil donation commanded here and not with the Menorah in Terumah? ● Why wasn't the Mizbei'ach HaZahav discussed in Parshas Terumah?
A few minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Parshas Zachor and Parshas Terumah.
Written version: http://torahquest.com/zachor-terumah-moshiach-mikdash-vs-amaleik-lrefuah-shileimah-menachem-mendel-shlomo-ben-chaya-rochel-lilui-nishmas-kayla-rus-bas-bunim-tuvia-ah-dovid-tzvi-ben-yosef-yochanan-ah-mosh/
A panoramic view of Parshas Terumah with a focus on the following questions: ● What was the function of the Mishkan? Did the Mishkan have to happen? ● Why did Hashem choose here and now to command the the construction of a Mishkan? DID He choose here and now? ● WHEN in fact was the command for the Mishkan-construction issued? If not here, why would the command be placed at this point in the Torah?
A workshop to prepare you to grace Ba'alei Simchah as a Ba'al Tefilah at an Aufruf, whether you were asked to lead Kabbalas Shabbos, Shacharis, Musaf, or to call up the Chassan for his Aliyah.
We know what Parshas Zachor is ABOUT, but how much do we really understand it? And what does Zachor represent in the larger map and series of the 4 Parshiyos? In answering these questions, we tackle the following other, major questions: How can we both "remember" Amaleik and "erase his memory" at the same time? And who or what is Amaleik anyway? Is it just "pure evil." Does "pure evil" exist? What does it mean to battle against "pure evil"? Is the moral of Zachor just to be a good person? Something tells me that the lesson of Zachor is more nuanced than that. Here, we visit the roots of Amaleik/Haman from the standpoint of Tanach, Chazal, the ancient liturgy and some contemporary sources to explain the mystery of Parshas Zachor.
For series intro: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/9649 For Part 1/4 (Shekalim): https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/9945
Extra reading on the 4 Parshiyos: https://www.yeshiva.co/midrash/13332
Is the Torah against "hate in all of its forms" or is there perhaps a place and even a Mitzvah to hate certain things? Does "hate" ever trump "love"? With our eyes on Parshas Zachor, we attempt to put American culture aside as we journey through Tanach, Chazal, the M'forshim, and some Halachah to address these questions.
A panoramic view of Parshas Mishpatim with a focus on 2 major questions:
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What are the Mishpatim? Are they just a Miscellaneous Mitzvah Mishkabobble? Is there any structure to them?
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Why is there a second version of the Kabbalas HaTorah Story at the end of Mishpatim? Why is it separate from Yisro?
My notes on the structure to the Mishpatim:
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Laws of Hebrew Servants (21:1-11)
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Domestic Crimes/Manslaughter (21:12-28) ● Striking Fellow Man/Parents ● Kidnapping ● Cursing Parents ● Brawl "3rd Degree" ● Manslaughter of Servant "3rd Degree" ● Brawl/Miscarriage "2nd Degree" ● Maiming Servant ● "Ox-Murderer"
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Monetary Obligations (21:29-22:16) ● Damages (Nezikin; Bor, Shor/Keren) ● Theft (Tavach U'Machar, Ba BaMachteres) ● Damages Cont'd (Regel/Shein, Eish) ● Custody/Security (Shomrim) ● Seduction ■ Why are the cases of theft inserted in between the 4 Avos Nezikin? _A Suggestion: The first 2 Nezikin occur anywhere, the 2nd 2 are, like theft, regard the property/domain of the owner.
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"Rejects" of Society (22:17-23) (Individuals requiring "Special Action"/"Attention" - Abominable Manipulators vs. Vulnerable) ● Witch, Bestiality-Perpetrator, Idolater ● Stranger, Widow, Orphan ■ What is the nature of this series? _Balance/Contrast between brazen action against perpetrators of abominable acts and careful regard for the downtrodden. _R' Asael Kent: Hashem's greatness and humility (Megillah 31A).
PART B - Parshas Kesef - "Im Kesef Talveh..." - (ETHICAL LAW) [Sefer HaChinuch/Avudraham, Minhag Provence]
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Laws of Loans (22:24-26) ● Ribbis/Neshech ● Mashkon (collateral) ■ What makes this section different from section 3? _NOT financial obligations, but spiritual/ethical code related to finances, FOR the CREDITOR; e.g. Ribbis = Yoreh Dei'ah as opposed to Choshen Mishpat
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Positions of Higher Respect (22:27-30) ● Judge/Prince ● Kohein; Terumah/Bechor ● Treifah (?) ■ What is the prohibition against eating Treif doing here? _This prohibition accentuates the stature of the "typical" Ben Yisrael; "Anshei Kodesh"
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Ethical "Judgment Calls"/Laws of the Court & Social Ethics (23:1-9) ● Integrity in Judgment (e.g. majority, "win by 2" rule, etc.) ● Restoration of Lost Objects (to enemy) ● Loading Animal (of enemy) ● Corruption in Judgment (e.g. bribery) ■ Why are these a single set? They should be 2 sets, 1. Judgment, 2. Social Ettiquette. Why are the laws of integrity in court interrupted by the law of enemy's animal? Both are really about making appropriate and ethical judgment calls against apparent biases.
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"Sabbatical" Laws & Divine Statutes (23:10-19) ● Shabbos/Shmitah ● Mentioning of other gods ● Pilgrimage ● Bikurim/Basar B'Chalav
What is the Parshas Shekalim all about? And what is its role in the broader series of the 4 Parshiyos? We explore these questions with some help from classical sources spanning from Chazal, Halachah, Tefilah/Piyutim, and M'forshim, as well as some more contemporary sources.
Series Intro: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/9649
Extra reading on the 4 Parshiyos: https://www.yeshiva.co/midrash/13332
Extra reading on Yotzros/Krovos for the 4 Parshiyos: http://jerroldlandau.com/piyutMyk.php
A workshop on a somewhat complex Davening, Shabbos Rosh Chodesh Musaf, which requires command and mastery over more than one Nusach. We'll present a hierarchy of approaches for this unique Davening with demos.
Is "slavery" immoral? My older brother R' Daniel joins me to discuss the Torah’s perspective on this most controversial of topics, at least in contemporary times; from Eved Ivri, to Eved Cana'ani, and beyond.
Some Hashkafah as well as a few thoughtful ways to fit some of your favorite Purim tunes into Halleil on Rosh Chodesh Adar.
A bunch of points to consider, pertaining to Avodas Hashem, whether or not one is watching the Super Bowl.
A panoramic view of Parshas Yisro with a focus on the following questions: ● When did Yisro join Klal Yisrael? If NOT here and now, then why is it recorded here and now? ● What is the exact purpose of the Aseres HaDibros? Why/How/Are they in fact different from the rest of the 613? ● Although most of the Mitzvos in this week's Parsha appear in the Aseres HaDibros, there is a small set of Mitzvos recorded peculiarly AFTER the Aseres HaDibros. What is the message of this mini-series? ● Divine Revelation - Why was it necessary then? Why not do it again today?
If you are in search of a tune for this Shabbos, consider paying tribute to the Neshamah of R' Dr. Abraham Twersky A"H whom we lost this week by using his legendary Niggun to the words of "Hoshia Es Amecha." In this workshop, I give you a few options of how to fit this tune into your Davening, whether you are leading Kabbalas Shabbos, Shacharis, or Musaf.
A workshop on a handful of different "configurations" of Kiddush HaChodesh for Shabbos Mevarchim Adar. The original workshop on Kiddush HaChodesh can be found here: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/3856 It includes tune options for all months of the Jewish calendar year.
Introductory Shiur to a series which will hopefully explain the basic and deeper meanings of the larger unit and individual parts of the "4 Parshiyos," Shekalim, Zachor, Parah, & HaChodesh.
My brother R' Mendy joins me for a conversation about "Jewish Privilege," all the things that that phrase possibly means, if it exists, and what to do with it.
A panoramic view of Parshas Beshalach with a focus on the following questions: • Why did Hashem avoid the "quick route" to Israel? So what if the Plishtim were blocking? Why couldn't G-d distract them OR miraculously fight them Himself? He was about to that to do the Egyptian anyway, wasn't He? And was the "longer route" actually better? A lot of terrible things would happen on the longer route. See literally the rest of the Torah: Cheit HaEigel, Miraglim/40 years of wandering, Korach's rebellion, Moshe loses his ticket to Israel, generation worth of casualties, etc.)
• Is the "Rosh HaShannah of Trees" more than just a legal cut-off point for fruit tithes? 🍎 • Why is it an auspicious time to pray for a nice Esrog? 🍋 • Is it "Jewish Arbor Day"? • And why haven't the students of Chassidus unveiled the Kabbalistic secrets of the "Rosh HaShannah for Animals"? 🐄
Special for Shabbos Shirah, my brothers and fellow Ba'alei Tefilah, R' Daniel and R' Mendy join me for the first "Panel Edition" of Ba'al Tefilah Workshop to discuss the topic of singing in Davening and to share many other helpful tips for anyone serving as a Shliach Tzibur. B"H, we had a lot of fun with this one.
Parshas Beshalach contains the much celebrated Parshas HaMann or the passage of the Manna. There is supposedly a Segulah for Parnasah for one who reads this Parsha (2x w/ Targum), daily, and perhaps specifically the Tuesday of the week of Parshas Beshalach. What is the source of this Segulah? What is the exact nature of this Segulah? How does it work? Why is Tuesday significant? We'll discuss all of that here.
A panoramic view of Parshas Bo with a focus on the following questions: ● Why divide the Makkos/Sidros between Makkos #7 & 8? Would it not have been more appropriate to begin a new Parsha from "HaChodesh"? ● Did G-d bully Pharaoh? Hashem informs Moshe that He had hardened Pharaoh's heart in order that it be known that He made a mockery of Pharaoh. Is that a confession? ● If G-d knows everything, why'd we need blood on the doorway to identify ourselves? Why were the laws of Pesach inserted here INTO the narrative BEFORE Makkas Bechoros?
My brother R' Daniel joins me again for a conversation about what some might refer to as a 'controversial' interpretation of Tefillin found in Rashbam's comments on this week's Parsha, Parshas Bo (as well as a counter-argument by a famous fellow Pashtan, the Ibn Ezra).
In this fascinating discussion which I personally learned a lot from, we'll also discover what it means to interpret a Pasuk in Chumash 'according to Pashut P'shat.' (Apparently, not all Pashtanim agree about this matter.)
Did you know that the one who sings at the Chupah is referred to as a "Chazan"? And if you look closely at what exactly he sings, I would say that he is also a Ba'al Tefilah. If so, what is the Tefilah for? What is his Kavanah? In this workshop, we're going to discuss that, offer some tips, and of course, provide some demos.
Does Kiddush Levanah not look or feel like moon-worship? If it's not that, what exactly is it? Why do we do it? And why, during Kiddush Levanah, do we (1) greet people "Shalom Aleichem," (2) sing "Siman Tov U'Mazel Tov"/"Dovid Melech Yisrael," and (3) break into dancing? In this session, we will visit the sources of Kiddush Levanah in the Gemara, Rishonim, and the Shulchan Aruch, and hopefully answer all of the above questions and more.
A panoramic view of Parshas Va'Eira with a focus on the following questions: ● Did Hashem remove/withhold Pharaoh's free choice? Is that fair? Why does Hashem harden Pharaoh's heart anyway? 🖤⛏️ ● Were all of the Makkos really necessary? Why not just kill Egypt with 1 plague or begin with just Choshech and let everyone escape? 🤔💡 ● Why would Hashem instruct Moshe & Aharon to perform wonders that could be easily duplicated through black magic? 🐍🩸🐸 ● Why does Parshas Va'Eira end in the middle of the Makkos, between Makkos #7 & 8? Why not keep all 10 Makkos together?! The Plague of OCD is just too much! 😬
A workshop for Davening that is relevant at least 6 days a week. I believe that having command over the Nusach for weekday Shmoneh Esreih and the end of Shacharis is not only empowering for the Ba'al Tefilah, but for the Kehilah he represents. This one takes practice, but the reward might be as great as the removal of 70 years of evil decrees.
Parsha HaShavuah & Daf Yomi unite as, today (Pesachim 53), both discuss Makkas Tzefardei'a, the Plague of Frogs! The Gemara oddly suggests that Chananya, Mishael, and Azaryah seemingly "Poskined" a Halachah for themselves based on the self-sacrifice of the frogs and volunteered their lives instead of bowing to a statue. Inspiring maybe, but also VERY STRANGE! They ruled based on frogs?! Could they just do that? Can WE do that? And couldn't they find another source?
It's an early morning weekday Rosh Chodesh Davening and they asked you to Daven Halleil. Can Halleil be both fast and nice? I think so. Here are some important tips and ideas to help you lead a Halleil that is both moving AND moving! 😉
From Shemos through Mishpatim is a period known in Kabbalah as Shovavim. What is Shovavim and how do we apply it? Is it just an acronym or is it something more?
Do you yearn for Moshiach? Are you sure? How do you know? Who or what even is Moshiach? Based on a request from listeners like you, we embark on a an important journey to understand what Moshiach is and what it means to yearn for Moshiach, based on the words of the Rambam, Book of Judges, Laws of Kings, Chapters 11-12. This is Part 2 of a 2 part series. For Part 1: https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/7737
A panoramic view of Parshas Shemos with a focus on the following questions: ● Was the Exodus just one big set-up? It seems that our relationship with Hashem today is premised on the Exodus. Because of the Exodus, we are forever bound by His Torah. Hashem rescued us, yes, but then again, He seems to have also plotted out our subjugation back at the Bris Bein HaBisarim. If true, Hashem is not only our Rescuer, but He is apparently the Mastermind behind our suffering too, which seems to uncomfortably undercut His credit as our Rescuer. Is this the case? Was the Exodus just one big set-up? ● That Awkward Moment When Hashem Almost Killed Moshe: Hashem would NOT allow Moshe to decline in the mission to redeem the B'nei Yisrael from Mitzrayim. If Moshe WAS so seemingly indispensable, why would G-d "attempt" to kill him at the inn on the road back to Egypt? How does this vague, random story fit in context with the rest of the narrative? Why bother recording it?
In this workshop, we revisit Kiddush HaChodesh with a full demo, customized for the month of Shevat. (Our original Kiddush HaChodesh session provided the Nusach and an overview of tune options for any month of the year with some demos. https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis/3856)
Do you yearn for Moshiach? Are you sure? How do you know? Who or what even is Moshiach? Based on a request from listeners like you, we embark on a an important journey to understand what Moshiach is and what it means to yearn for Moshiach, based on the words of the Rambam, Book of Judges, Laws of Kings, Chapters 11-12. This is part 1 of a 2 part series.
What is so "controversial" about the Nusach for Shabbos Minchah? Although we all know the traditional tune for Shabbos Minchah, what most people do not know is at which parts of Shabbos Minchah the tune is used and at which parts it is not. Here, we'll discuss the accurate Nusach for Shabbos Minchah and I'll share my best "hybrid" demo of the Davening.
Why was Moshe Rabbeinu selected to be Hashem's messenger and redeemer of the B'nei Yisrael? What made him the one? Was he merely born and bred for the job? Did he have any choice in the matter? Were there alternatives to Moshe Rabbeinu? Join me and my brothers R' Daniel and R' Mendy in the second and much anticipated Parsha Panel as we discuss the origins of the greatest prophet, leader, and human of our tradition and history altogether.
Well, can she? So, in Parshas Shemos, Moshe Rabbeinu's wife Tziporah performs a Bris Milah on their son... or does she? Also, beyond biology, why didn't Hashem enable women to perform this Mitzvah of Bris Milah on themselves? In this Real-Talk Torah, we'll review some of the sources and talk some Halachah and Hashkafah on the matter (speak to your local Orthodox Rav for practical Halachah).
A few more minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Parshas Vayechi and a timely message for the end of 2020.
A panoramic view of Parshas Vayechi with a focus on the following question: Vayechi revolves around the final meetings between Yaakov and his sons. That's 3 meetings to be exact. Besides for meeting with the whole family, he had 2 private meetings with Yosef first. Did you ever notice that? Believe it or not, the Torah presents 2 separate meetings that Yaakov had with Yosef. Why 2? The first takes place when Yaakov's "death was nearing" (47:29) while the second one takes when Yaakov gets "sick" (48:1), but what is the difference between these two "phases"? Why did it take two sessions for Yaakov speak about his burial and to bless his children? Why did Yaakov mention Rochel's burial in the 2nd meeting about Efrayim and Menasheh?
How pretentious could one be to try to tell you what to learn from this turbulent year? Shouldn't one be more humble? We'll talk about that!
In this Parsha Edition of Ba'al Tefilah Workshop, I present you a Playlist of all of the amazing songs that appear in or are deeply connected to Parshas Vayechi and even suggest recommendations for placement of these tunes.
Believe it or not, Pesukei D'Zimrah has a Nusach, and even on a weekday. In this session, we'll dabble in the Nusach of Pesukei D'Zimrah of both Shabbos and of weekday.
The Ayin HaRa or the Evil Eye is a prominent feature of Yaakov's blessings upon Yosef HaTzaddik and his child Efrayim and Menasheh. The Gemara in Brachos 20 discusses this subject as it pertains to Yosef's family. The question is: What is Ayin HaRa and do we believe in it? Is it similar to or different from bogus superstition? Are we allowed to believe in such a thing? Join us here as we discuss this matter a little bit.
A panoramic view of Parshas Vayigash with a focus on the following questions: ● The showdown between Yosef and his brothers is strikingly familiar. Have we seen this before? When and where? When you notice it, the parallels are staggering. Will history repeat itself? Will this time be different? ● Why does the Torah spend so much time elaborating on Yosef's economic legislation, policies, and governance? What do we learn from them?
One of the tragedies for which we mourn and fast on Asarah B'Teiveis is the translation of the Torah at the hands of Ptolemy which took place on the 8th of Teiveis (today's date). But, what exactly is so tragic about the translation of the Torah? Translations grant us access to Talmud Torah! Did anyone fast when the Schottenstein Gemara was printed? Is Artscroll doing the wrong thing? Let's talk about it.
In this workshop, we discuss Nusach, structure, themes of Selichos in general and particularly on Asarah B'Teiveis.
A few minutes of Mussar and inspiration on Parshas Vayigash.
■ What is the moral of Mechiras Yosef? Don't sell your brother? Why couldn't Yosef's brothers figure that out?! ■ The Beis HaLevi teaches us that Yosef pierced his brothers with the fiery Mussar of "Ani Yosef HaOd Avi Chai?" as if to say, "Did you care about MY father's wellbeing when you sold me?" But, if the brothers Poskin'd that Yosef should have rightfully been executed, why should their father's feelings have mattered?
This Friday is Asarah B'Teiveis and that means we'll be reciting Selichos this week. (And maybe one of us will be leading it too.) But, before we can even get to Nusach, I have a challenge for you.
Some thoughts, reflections, and emotions from last year's celebration of the 13th Siyum HaShas, a life-changing event and experience.
Chanukah is not just about the Menorah. On THIS Zos Chanukah, we remember the often forgotten vessel and Avodah of Chanukah and yearn for its restoration. Have a Freilechin Zos Chanukah!
A panoramic view of Parshas Mikeitz with a focus on the following questions: 1. Why didn't Yosef write home? Why did Yosef put on a charade? Why did he frame Binyamin? 2. Why does Parshas Mikeitz end of a cliffhanger? The Torah is not a movie! Such an abrupt finish is uncharacteristic of the Torah. But, what if Mikeitz DOES have a conclusive ending hiding in plain sight? 3. What does the rare Haftarah for Parshas Mikeitz have to do with the Parsha? https://jewishpodcasts.fm/thedatabeis
This Shabbos, we will read one of the rarest Haftaros, the story Shlomo HaMelech and the "custody battle" [Melachim Aleph 3:15-4:1]. But, WHAT does this story have to do with Parshas Mikeitz? Everything! (You could check out Artscroll for some connections. If you're not 100% satisfied with what you find there, then give this Shiur a listen here.)
Running out of "Chanukah tunes"? Don't panic! Let's talk. In this Ba'al Tefilah Workshop, we'll review some tips pertaining to song choices on Chanukah. The main options to consider are to (1) "repeat" and hope for the best, (2) resurrect "Halleil classics," (3) get "thematically creative," or (4) go "timeless."
Have you ever noticed that Succos and Chanukah are both 8 days? Have you ever noticed that both a Succah and a Menorah/Chanukiyah must not be higher than 20 Amos? Did you know that the connections don't end there? Sfas Emes reveals that Chanukah is the offspring of Succos. What does that mean? Find out!
I was recently a guest on Nobody Talks Shidduchim, an insightful and entertaining podcast on various issues pertaining to the world of Shidduchim (Jewish "matchmaking"). On this episode, I was a part of a discussion about the "Role of Gender Roles" in relationships, Halachah and Hashkafah. The interview section that I'm featured in starts at 8:09 and ends at 35:30.
Thank you, Yonah and Chani, for having me!
For more from the Nobody Talks Shidduchim podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nobody-talks-shidduchim/id1479217367#episodeGuid=fdced55d-cd22-4db7-814b-9208cff5f424
A panoramic view of Parshas Vayeishev with a focus on the following questions: 1. What were Yaakov & Yosef thinking? Why did Yaakov Avinu "play favorites"? Why did Yosef "boast"? Why did Yaakov send Yosef to his brothers who hated him? 2. What is the story of Yehudah and Tamar doing in the middle of our Parsha?
Bring some Kedushah to your Kedushah with this week's special workshop on Kedushah for Shabbos Musaf, packed with advice and several different demos of song options which you may want to consider for your next time at the Amud.
The most widely known Jewish holiday is wildly misunderstood and it's meaning has been corrupted.
This is best depicted by one of the most ironic memes on the subject which read:
'For those who may not be aware...
Hanukkah ISN'T Jewish Xmas, anything about Jesus, all about presents, or upstaging Xmas because it's 8 days.
1) Hanukkah IS celebration of maintaining one's minority identity amidst overwhelming majority
2) a celebration of triumph over religious and political tyranny,
3) a celebration of a triumph of a tiny band of freedom fighters who won over a huge and highly trained militarily,
4) a celebration of passing onto one's children their heritage, identity, and history.'
On this episode of Real-Talk Torah, I explain why this meme is wrong on almost every count and attempt to accurately restore the definition of Chanukah to its former glory, BS'D.
A panoramic view of Parshas Vayishlach with a focus on the following question:
Vayishlach seems to contain many "unrelated" stories, from Yaakov's showdown with Eisav, to Dinah's capture, to Rochel's death, to Reuvein's sin, etc. What they all ostensibly have in common is that they are trials Yaakov Avinu experienced. However, the Parsha signs off with the passage of Eisav's progeny, conclusively completing the second of two Eisav-themed bookends. In other words, the Parsha begins and ends with Eisav, suggesting that, indeed, these stories are all a unit within the larger battle with Eisav. What is striking though is that the trials recorded in Vayishlach do not mark the end of Yaakov's trials, especially as the greatest one has yet to come; Mechiras Yosef. Although the Midrashim learn a lot from the juxtaposition between Mechiras Yosef and the Toldos Eisav, what is clear is that Mechiras Yosef is a unit all its own. We will eventually get to that story in Parshas Vayeishev, but the task for now is to understand Parshas Vayishlach. What is this Parsha about? Do the "trials" of Vayishlach have a unifying theme?
On this Real-Talk Torah, my brother R' Daniel joins me once again as we confront the disturbing and confusing story of Reuvein and Bilhah? What exactly happened?
In the first ever Parsha Panel, my brothers R' Daniel and R' Mendy join me as we discuss the heavy issue of the Torah observance of the Avos. Did they truly fulfill the entire Torah before it was given? Is that even possible? What do the sources have to say? And what are we even supposed to do with this information?
A panoramic view of Parshas Vayeira with a focus on the following questions: 1. Why did it take Yaakov so long to get married? Why did he wait until he was so old? 2. Why did Yaakov have to marry so many wives? Was it just a coincidental, natural turn of events? 3. Why do we need to know about Yaakov's financial rivalry with Lavan?
Inspired by Pesachim 3 and Parshas Vayeitzei, we talk about Chazal's elevated standard of speech, as Rashi in Pesachim puts it, "LaChzor Achar Lashon Tzach V'Naki"-"to search after a dialect that is most pristine and clean." I believe what this Gemara teaches us goes way beyond the sin of speaking Nivul Peh, a separate Sugya (topic) in Shabbos, Daf 33.
Continuing Shacharis for Shabbos, we move onto "Shmoneh Esreih"/Amidah through Hotza'as Sefer Torah. As always, we focus on Nusach and Havanah. Also, enjoy scattered, special guest appearances from my son Ovadiah Moshe.
Yes, Thanksgiving is a secular holiday, but intrinsically and literally, it is the most Jewish holiday. As Jews, we know that we are supposed to be thankful everyday. If so, is there any value to having one special day of Thanksgiving? What can we learn from this uniquely Jewish/secular holiday?
Is there a connection between video games and Siyumim? While the Daf Yomi tribe of Klal Yisrael celebrates its latest Siyum on Maseches Eiruvin, we briefly explore the concept of the Siyum and the connection I noticed between Siyumim and video games of all things. We can learn a lot from video games and if we can understand why video games make many of us tick, we can change our Avodas Hashem!
A panoramic view of Parshas Toldos with a focus on the following questions: 1. Was Eisav "born evil"? The Midrash describes his innate yearning for Avodah Zarah. Is that fair? What was Hashem's origin plan for Eisav? 2. Why does the Torah interrupt the story of Yaakov and Eisav to tell us about Yitzchak re-digging wells? Why should we care about this seemingly insignificant detail of Yitzchak's life? And why did the Chumash need to interrupt the Yaakov-Eisav story for it? 3. What did Yitzchak see in Eisav? How much did he know about the truth of Eisav's character?
The first workshop on Shacharis for Shabbos beginning from Shochein Ad and finishing with Shema through the Brachah of Ga'al Yisrael. As usual, we focus on Nusach as well as the 4 H's: Halachah (law), Hashkafah (outlook), Havanah (understanding), Havarah (accent).
An interview with R' Avraham Goldhar, the founder of Zichru, a world famous program designed to improve memory, retention, and recall of one's Torah learning. Zichru is most recognized for its Daf Yomi program which is currently being utilized by hundreds of people throughout the world daily. For more information, go to Zichru.com.
Yaakov ostensibly lied or at least misled his father Yitzchak to intercept the blessing from his older brother Eisav (in a scheme arranged by his mother Rivkah). In this conversation edition of Real-Talk Torah, my older brother and I confront the deception story of Parshas Toldos, critically analyzing the text as well as the traditions of Chazal, and address the question as to how we, as Frum, traditional, and moral Jews, are supposed to relate to the seemingly controversial actions of our holy and righteous forefather.
A workshop on Halleil especially customized for the Chanukah months of Kisleiv and Teiveis. There is a surprising challenge to being a Chazzan for these Halleil's; between Kisleiv and Teiveis, there are 9 Halleil's and only so many song options!
In the first ever "Conversation Edition" of Real-Talk Torah, my brother R' Mendy and I discuss the challenges of performing Gemilus Chassadim (bestowing of kindness) and Mitzvos Bein Adam LaChaveiro (commandments between man and his fellow) properly, in a way that anticipates the needs of the recipient, knowing what and what not to say or do.
A panoramic view of Parshas Chayei Sarah with a focus on these questions:
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Chayei Sarah records an elaborate exchange between Avraham and Efron regarding the purchase of Sarah's burial plot, and yet, in only one passing line, the Torah tells us that Avraham eulogized Sarah. Where is Sarah's eulogy? Why doesn't the Parsha record one?
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Yitzchak's wedding isn't the only one recorded in this Parsha. Avraham also marries, this time, a third marriage to Keturah. A. Why should we care? B. Chazal teach that Keturah was Hagar. Why would Avraham [re]marry Hagar of all people?! C. Chazal teach that the Shadchan was none other than Yitzchak. Why would he initiate this, after everything his mother Sarah had gone through with Hagar? How was this marriage not an insult to the late Sarah?
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What is Sarah's legacy?
A blooper/outtake from the most recent Real-Talk Torah session. Enjoy my son's noises...
Elections are "over," sort of? And it matters, sort of? Exactly how much does/should it matter? As Yidden, what do we do now? What is our Tachlis? Also, some thoughts on the Petiros of two giants, R' Dovid Feinstein and R' Lord Jonathan Sacks.
A workshop on a generic Halleil focusing on both Nusach and nice singing opportunities. Stay tuned for workshops on month-themed and Chag-themed variations of Halleil.
What is the Avodah of Yid in these uncertain, unfinished elections? Whom can you still trust? Where should we place our Bitachon?
A panoramic view of Parshas Vayeira with a focus on the following questions:
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Why are there 2 "Avraham Avinu" Parshiyos? Why don't we cut straight to the birth of Yitzchak? What does Vayeira add to Lech Lecha?
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Is Vayeira a repeat of Lech Lecha? In both Parshiyos: • Avraham Avinu is promised a son • Lot is in danger • Sarah Imeinu is kidnapped by a king • Avraham Avinu has a son • Hagar is driven away • Avraham Avinu sharpens knife for an important, painful trial What is the meaning behind these Parsha parallels? Why does history repeat itself?
Going through Halachah, Hashkafah, and Nusach/Chazanus of the standard Kabbalas Shabbos and Maariv.
For Reb Shlomo Carlebach's Yortzeit, a demo of the Carlebach Kabbalas Shabbos.
If you would like any of the parts recorded more elaborately, contact me at TheDataBeis@gmail.com.
We all have opinions about the 2020 Elections. Does the presidential race have a place in our Davening? How do we Daven for our candidate/party to win? Which party is Hashem voting for?
A panoramic view of Parshas Lech Lecha with a focus on the following questions:
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Why did Hashem choose Avraham? (Why does the Torah omit the story of Avraham's incredible Exodus from Ur Kasdim?)
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What exactly was Hashem's Plan C for the world? How would Avraham carry it out?
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Why are there two "Avraham Avinu Parshiyos"? Where is the line between Parshas Lech Lecha and Vayeira?
Reflecting on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic months later. What Hashkafic lessons have we learned? Is it too late to implement those lessons?
Continuing introduction to Ba'al Tefilah Workshop with a focus on 5 things which a Chazan should be conscious of when leading Davening.
Intro to the Ba'al Tefilah Workshop
What is the role of a Shliach Tzibur? Who is qualified?[Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 53:4]
https://halachipedia.com/index.php?title=Shaliach_Tzibur#cite_note-2
What is so bitter about the month of Cheshvan? Is it more bitter than Chodesh Tamuz or Av?
What is the Avodah of Chodesh Mar-Cheshvan?
How do we sweeten Chodesh Mar-Cheshvan?
A panoramic view of Parshas Noach with a focus on these questions: 1. Did G-d change His mind? Why create the world and then destroy it? Why did He decide to never do it again? What changed? 2. Why did G-d have to intervene against the Generation of the Dispersion? What kind of real threat did the Tower of Bavel pose? 3. What was wrong with G-d's Plan B for mankind? How did the "Dispersion" pave the way for Plan C?
Panoramic view of Parsha Bereishis with a focus on these questions: 1. Why would a "good" G-d test man with a forbidden tree at the cost of man's life? 2. Why would a "good" G-d "choose" favorites between Kayin and Hevel, stirring a sibling rivalry, which ends up costing a life? 3. Why would a "good" G-d "give up" on the world which He only created for the purpose of bestowing good?