Baruch Dayan Ha'Emes: The Stamford Rosh Yeshiva, HaRav Meir Hershkowitz, has returned his soul to his Maker. We mourn the loss of a Torah giant who devoted his life to studying and teaching the Torah. His legacy lives on through the thousands of Talmidim he has taught around the globe and the generations of Torah he has Meyased. May his memory be a blessing.

As his funeral and levaya take place, we are reminded of his immense impact on the Jewish community. He co-founded Yeshiva Bais Binyomin in Stamford, Connecticut, alongside Rav Simcha Schustal, zt" l, and was the Rosh Yeshiva for many years. 

Rav Hershkowitz was not just a Rosh Yeshiva but a beloved father and father-in-law. He was the father of Mrs. and father-in-law of Rabbi Ezra Neuberger, an inspiration to many.

Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and students during this challenging time. May they find comfort and solace in the Torah he taught and his positive influence on the world.

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Parshas Acharei Mos and Kedoshim are two of the most well-known Torah portions in the Jewish tradition, mainly due to their focus on sacrifice and atonement. The portion begins with God instructing Moses regarding the ritual of Yom Kippur, which requires the High Priest to enter the inner sanctum of the Tabernacle and make atonement for himself, his family, and all of Israel. 

The central theme of this portion is teshuva (repentance). It offers guidance on how to repent and achieve forgiveness from God. This message is further reinforced by various mitzvos that are introduced during this Parsha - such as: not eating blood or any other offerings made to idols; abstaining from incest and adultery; avoiding specific prohibitions of Shabbas, such as the lighting of a fire; and observing the laws related to kosher food. 

In addition, Parshas Acharei Mos emphasizes the importance of charity and hospitality towards others. For example, it discusses how we should help those in need and assist strangers looking for a place to stay or a meal. This section also details specific regulations regarding handling animal remains after slaughtering – an act of kindness demonstrating our respect for all living creatures. 

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The Parsha of Tazria deals with the purification of mothers after childbirth and the identification and response to leprosy. In Metzora, purification rituals for people and homes afflicted with skin diseases are discussed, along with instructions on the laws of bodily fluid emissions.

The topic of our shiur today is a unique halacha that leads us to a shocking conclusion. We will discuss how this halacha points to the first step needed for a person to overcome sin.

In this episode, we learn a new strategy to deploy against the Yetzer Hara and practical advice from the Alter of Kelm.

Click here to see the video of the Chofetz Chaim walking.

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Sefiras HaOmer is an extraordinary time of the year for all Jews. The countdown of Sefiras HaOmer begins on Pesach night when we count 49 days until Shavuos - The Giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. This period is filled with joy, excitement, and hope as we anticipate celebrating the receiving of the Torah with our fellow Jews. Each day during Sefiras HaOmer, we can focus on reconnecting with our Creator and drawing closer to Him.

In this special bonus episode of The Torah Podcast, we explore three uniquely different approaches from Maharal z"l, Zohar, and R' Aharon Kotler z"l, respectively, as the mission and goals one should have in mind during this auspicious time of year.

May this particular time of the year be one of joy, reflection, and personal growth. May we all merit to observe Sefiras HaOmer in peace and unity, cherishing the gifts we have been given from Above. Amen!

Topics Covered:

• What is Sefiras HaOmer?
• What is our exceptional service during these days?
• The mindset surrounding Sefiras HaOmer inside the walls of a Yeshiva.

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In this week's Torah Podcast: Shemini, which is the Torah reading of the week and third in the Book of Leviticus. Parshas Shemini tells of the consecration of the Tabernacle, the deaths of Nadab and Abihu, and the dietary laws of kashrut (כַּשְׁרוּת‎). In this week's Torah podcast, we focus on an idea from Rav Shlomo Wolbe z"l about Moshe Rabbeinus's response to his brother when Aharon was hesitant to assume the leadership role of Kohen Gadol. This teaches us to recognize false humility and take leadership positions when needed. Plus, we explore a fascinating explanation of  Ramban about Aharon's first experience inside the Mishkan. In this fundamental Torah lesson from the Mashgiach, we are taught where our service of Hashem begins and the words that should come to mind when we are hesitant to take the leap of faith.

Summary:
First, we summarize Parshas Shemini. Then we explain Rav Wolbe's Insight on the Parsha. Lastly, we finish with actionable advice and a new mindset on a misunderstood character trait. 


My Favorite Podcasts Right Now:

1. The Parsha Podcast - With Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe 
http://rabbiwolbe.com/the-parsha-podcast-with-rabbi-yaakov-wolbe

2. Jewish History Soundbites - With Yehuda Geberer
https://jsoundbites.podbean.com

3. Rabbi Gershon Ribner                          
https://rebgershonribner.com                                       

4. Rabbi Aaron Lopiansky                                    https://shiurim.eshelpublications.com/podcasts
   
5. Seforim Chatter Podcast                
https://seforimchatter.com

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Making the Pesach Seder fun and interactive is integral to connecting with our Jewish heritage and passing on traditions to future generations. The seder plate, which traditionally contains a roasted shank bone, matzah, maror (bitter herbs), charoses (a mixture of fruit and nuts), karpas (a vegetable, usually onion or parsley), and salt water, can be used to create exciting activities for the whole family! One fun activity that can be done with the seder plate is a "quest"—have each person at the table take turns finding an item on the seder plate. Whoever finds it first will get to tell everyone what it means and why we use it during the seder. You can also ask participants to act out a scene from the Passover story, with each person assigned a different role as they tell the story of our Exodus from Egypt. In addition to involving everyone in activities, you can make your seder more interactive by creating a "storyboard" around the outside of the table. Place pictures and symbols that remind us of our heritage and its traditions so that while eating and drinking at the table, you can still remember why we celebrate this memorable holiday. Finally, spicing up your Pesach Seder doesn't have to stop at activities—you can add a touch of fun by incorporating food into the festivities! Some ideas for creative dishes include matzah lasagna, potato kugel, macaroons, and more. Not only will these traditional dishes taste great, but they will also keep everyone engaged as we remember the story of our deliverance from Egypt. Making the Pesach Seder fun and interactive doesn't have to be complicated. With a few simple ideas and some creativity, you can create memories that last well beyond this holiday season—and remind us of why we celebrate it in the first place! 

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In this week's Torah Podcast: The Jewish mitzvah (commandment) of Terumas Hadeshen is a ritual that involves taking a small portion of ashes from atop the altar each day and setting them aside. Terumas Hadeshen teaches us about continuity, and setting aside part of the ash from the previous day reminds us that while our service may change, it originates in yesterday's work. Through this mitzvah, we understand that even as time passes, something tangible remains to connect us to the past and guide us into the future. The Hotza'as Hadeshen also reminds us not to rest on our laurels and fall into complacency due to previous accomplishments. We must strive for excellence each day regardless of what has been accomplished in days prior and approach our service of Hasehm with passion and enthusiasm.

Summary:
• Each day in the Mikdash, the Kohen's service began with the mitzvah of Terumas Hadeshen, by which a kohen separated and placed ash next to the altar.
• This mitzvah was not part of regular housekeeping as it required a kohen and was done ceremoniously.
• It served to remind those coming to serve Hashem that in service of Hashem, they need not reinvent the wheel.
• The mitzvah of Terumas Hadeshen taught continuity and building on the past, while Hotza'as Hadeshen taught the need to approach each day with new purpose and vigor.

Good Shabbos!

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In this week's Torah podcast, we explore a fascinating Midrash that
describes Moshe not entering into the Mishkan until he was called.
This teaches us an essential lesson about knowledge and focus - having
both before beginning any task. By taking the time to understand and
contemplate what lies ahead in our lives, we can ensure tremendous
success when achieving our goals. Parshas Vayikra encourages us to
step back and reflect on our actions before starting something new.
When beginning something significant, such as taking on a large
project or creating something from scratch, being mindful of what is
involved in making that endeavor successful is vital. To be effective,
we must have proper knowledge and focus. This Midrash teaches us an
important lesson about being prepared before taking on any task - to
ensure we are giving it our best shot. We can live a more productive
and focused life by understanding the importance of knowledge and
focus, as taught in Parsha Vayikra. With a conscious effort towards
self-improvement, success is within reach! Tune into this week's
podcast for more insight on parshas Vayikra and how to lead your most
focused life.

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In this episode of The Torah Podcast:
Without prior knowledge of weaving, sewing, or constructing, how could the Jewish people build the Mishkan? The Ramban's answer in parshas Vayakhel is genuinely inspiring. He explains that under the guidance of Hashem, a few individuals could find within themselves the strength and determination to succeed despite the seemingly impossible task set before them. The lesson here is timeless – it takes grit and determination to build great things and achieve goals that appear spiritually unachievable. This same concept applies today when we look at those who have made successful companies or written critical commentary on Torah texts. It all comes down to drive, grit, and strong faith in oneself - knowing that with Hashem's help, anything can be achieved. With this mindset firmly rooted in our souls, there is no limit to what we can accomplish. It is this same drive and determination that the individuals in parshas Vayakhel had, which we can all emulate today. By believing in ourselves and investing our time, energy, and effort into whatever God asks of us, we can achieve great things - no matter how impossible they may seem. We must take one step at a time towards our goal with faith and confidence, knowing Hashem will provide us with the necessary resources for success.  Nothing stops us from making the impossible possible – just as those who built the Mishkan did!

Highlights:
-Tap into your inner strength and determination to achieve great things
-Believe in yourself and Hashem, and you can accomplish anything
-Find the grit to push forward even when the task ahead seems impossible
-Be inspired by those who have achieved greatness against all odds


See the Ramban inside for yourself! Click Here

Thanks for listening! 

Have a great Shabbos, Michoel

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In this episode of The Torah Podcast, we explore the troubling episode of the Jewish people at the foot of Mount Sinai, their leader receiving the Torah, about to bring it down and bestow it upon them. They commit the grievous sin of idolatry. Much ink has been spilled to explain the depth of the evil done, the consequences of that action, and the practical takeaway. In this short Dvar Torah on the week's parsha, we follow the wisdom of Rav Dessler, who explains why this story is a prime example of how the Yetzer Hara temps and troubles us and the approach needed to emerge victorious.


Stay tuned for inspiring Passover Divrei Torah. Join us as we explore the Haggadah and unearth the beauty of the holiday of Pesach. Delve into our collection of uplifting Divrei Torah to find the perfect vort to share with your family at the seder this year.

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Questions or Comments? Please email me @ [email protected]