Mining The Riches Of The Parsha

We discuss Mikeitz and Chanukah. Delivered at Kollel Torah Mitzion on December 5, 2018.

We discuss how one action (or inaction) can change the world - and how Chanuka demonstrates this, what Yosef teaches us about how to withstand temptation, and what we should think about as we light the Chanuka Menora.

We discuss Hallel on Chanuka as distinct from Rosh Chodesh and Yom Tov, repetition in Hallel, and the magnificent experience of saying Hallel in the Churva Shul in Jerusalem.

We discuss Yaakov's fear and the power of each Mitzvah, the encounter from Eisav's point of view, Dina's absence and Yaakov's silence after the rape of Dina, and the emphasis on siblings and the benefit of wobbly families.

We discuss when not to pray, and limits on prayer.

We discuss Leah's persistence at prayer, Rabbanit Chana Henkin's approach to prayer in the aftermath of tragedy, and the story of Yaakov's maturation told through two dreams.

We discuss gratitude in prayer, Yaakov initiates Maariv - prayer in distress, visualization in prayer, and facing Jerusalem.

We discuss how the prayers of Rivka and Yitzchak were answered, and an in-depth understanding of Ashrei, the ultimate introduction to prayer.

We discuss Hesped - delivering a eulogy, whether Eliezer violated the prohibition of Nichush - sorcery, and the one true criteria for a happy marriage.

We discuss how prayers were established by the Avot (patriarchs - Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov), how they differ in context and mood, the special significance of Minchah, and R. Noach Weinberg's insight to the first three paragraphs of the Amida.