Toviya Slager

Thesis: The Ma’an was Hashem’s way showing the Jews that it is ok to live with uncertainty. Question: Why does the Torah stress the fact that the Jews complained about the Ma’an in the desert? Answer: The Jews had plenty of food, but they were scared of the uncertainty of the desert and the lack …

Beshalach: Uncertainty in the Desert Read More »

Thesis: Moshe’s defining characteristic was overcoming his natural inclination and recognizing people much less fortunate than himself. Question: Why was Moshe rewarded for noticing the bush – anyone would have stopped to look? Answer: Moshe was rewarded for being someone who generally stops and notices things. Not just at the bush, but also in Egypt. …

Shemos: Recognizing the Less Fortunate Read More »

Parshas Vayishlach: Ya’akov’s name – How to Overcome Internal Struggles Thesis: Overcoming internal struggles can feel painful, it is still a source of personal blessing. Question: Why did the angel ask Ya’akov for his name. Answer: He was asking Ya’akov if he was the same person who is afraid of confrontation, or has overcome his …

Vayishlach 2022: Ya’akov’s Name – How to Overcome Internal Struggles Read More »

Thesis: serving God is about what you are doing now, not the end goal Question: why does Hashem use lech lecha for the first and last test Answer: to show that serving him is not about where you are from or where you are going, but what you are doing now.   Parshiyot are like …

Vayera: Serving in the Present Read More »