At a recent parlor meeting for a kollel, Rav Avraham Krohn inspired the audience with a powerful insight from Rav Asher Arielli and Rav Michel Yehuda Lefkowitz. Why was Yehoshua, not Moshe Rabbeinu, chosen to lead the battle against Amalek? The answer reveals a profound truth about Torah and avodas Hashem: True greatness lies not in innate brilliance but in relentless effort. In this episode, we explore the depth of this lesson and its relevance in our own struggles, especially during the days of Shovavim.

A bochur boards a flight, determined to stand by his values—no compromises, no Plan B. What happens next, involving an Oct 7 hostage, is nothing short of remarkable. And in Parshas Bo, Hashem gives Moshe the same message: move forward with absolute resolve. No hesitation. No backup plan. Just unwavering commitment.

Tech giants like Apple and Google spend billions to grab attention in the first few seconds, knowing that once hooked, consumers stay engaged. This tactic, rooted in human nature, mirrors the way the yetzer hara works, drawing us into temptation in an instant. In this week’s parashah, the Mitzrim’s stubbornness during Makkas Tzefardei’a shows how one moment of irrationality can lead to uncontrollable consequences. True greatness comes when we master those fleeting moments of desire, pausing to regain control before reacting impulsively. 

The Bobover Rebbe saw greatness in Moshe, even when Moshe seemed far removed from holiness. He looked past the struggles and external failings, recognizing the pure, untarnished soul within. In this time of Shovavim, we’re reminded that no matter where we stand or how far we’ve strayed, the ground beneath us is holy. Remove the barriers, reconnect to your essence, and take the next step toward becoming the real you 

Yaakov Avinu declares Menashe and Ephraim as 'his own,' despite being raised in Egypt without his direct influence. This highlights that true chinuch isn’t about behavior under supervision, but about how deeply values are internalized. Menashe and Ephraim, raised in a challenging environment, remained steadfast in their principles—reflecting the lasting impact of Yaakov’s chinuch. This teaches us that our values can endure, even when far from the source. 

Explore a profound lesson from the Beis Halevi, based on Yosef’s question, 'Is my father still alive?' Yosef’s words were not merely an inquiry but a rebuke to his brothers for the pain they caused their father. The Beis Halevi teaches that we often justify our actions with excuses, but when we examine them closely, we see how inconsistent they are. This message encourages us to reflect on our actions, strive for integrity, and align our choices with the will of Hashem, free from contradictions and excuses. 

Be sure to check out 2 NEW Lechteich podcasts:

1. Footsteps of Greatness:
   https://24six.app/app/podcast/collection/11397
   
2. Lechteich Mussar Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lechteich-mussar-podcast/id1787746928

Be sure to subscribe to the new In the Footsteps of Greatness podcast, featuring short, inspiring stories of greatness designed to uplift and inspire you, exclusively available on 24/6

https://24six.app/app/podcast/collection/11397Footsteps of Greatness 

In a world filled with noise, the most profound messages often emerge from silence, revealing meaning where it’s least expected.