Classes on the Parsha - Rabbi Chaim Wolosow

This letter explores Elul as a time for spiritual reflection and preparation, highlighting its customs, historical roots, and the threefold path of Torah, prayer, and good deeds. It discusses leadership models of king and Nasi, the prohibition against returning to Egypt, and draws contemporary lessons for redemption. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/018

This letter explores the customs of Elul, their connection to Parsha Shoftim, and the spiritual lessons of the shofar. It emphasizes self-reflection, protecting others' dignity, and using Elul as a time for awakening and growth in preparation for a blessed new year. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/017

This shiur explores the Torah’s comparison of man to a tree, teaching that intellectual achievement alone is insufficient. True greatness comes when knowledge transforms character and action, integrating intellect and emotion for personal growth and positive influence. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/004

This shiur explores the spiritual opportunities of Elul, the metaphor of man as a tree, and the importance of refining character through Torah. It connects these themes to current events, emphasizing our responsibility to bear fruit—through kindness, wisdom, and positive influence—even in challenging times. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/021

This Torah and Tea explores the unique mitzvah of appointing judges and officers in Judaism, highlighting Hashem's essence-love for the Jewish people. It discusses the deeper role of judges, the dual aspects of mitzvah fulfillment, rabbinic commandments, and our yearning for true justice with Mashiach. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/022

This letter explores the custom of adding three chapters of Tehillim during Elul, tracing its origins from Achia HaShiloni through the Baal Shem Tov to modern practice. It explains how the tradition evolved and highlights its deep connection to Jewish continuity and anticipation for redemption. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/015

This class explores the Torah's laws regarding prophecy and false prophets, how to discern genuine prophecy, and Rambam's explanation of why Jewish belief is rooted in national revelation at Sinai. It also discusses witnesses in halacha, spiritual renewal during Elul, and faith amid tragedy. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/019

This shiur explores the Torah's command 'lo tachus einecha'—do not have pity—in cases of intentional murder, false witnesses, and bodily injury. It examines when justice requires strict punishment versus monetary compensation and discusses the deeper meaning and application of this phrase across contexts. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/008

This shiur explores whether the Torah's phrase 'vechi yavo haLevi' refers to a Kohen or a regular Levi. Rashi interprets it as referring to a Kohen, while Rambam holds it means a regular Levi. The Rebbe analyzes both views and their implications for Shevet Levi's unity. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/012

This letter explores Rashi's commentary on Parshas Sheftim, highlighting how the Torah goes to great lengths to protect the dignity of those who have sinned or strayed. The Rebbe teaches that we must never expose or shame others for their faults, but always act with sensitivity. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/010

This shiur explores the principle of prophecy in Judaism, comparing the Rambam's and Talmud's views on prophetic qualifications. It discusses wisdom and humility as core traits, applies these ideas to contemporary leaders like the Rebbeim, and highlights our yearning for clear prophetic guidance today. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/011

This shiur explores the month of Elul as a time for reflection and spiritual preparation, delves into its deeper meanings and dualities, and highlights the importance of appointing a Rav or spiritual guide. It connects Elul's themes with lessons from Parshat Shoftim on leadership and personal growth. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/020

This shiur explores the Torah's commandment of eglah arufah, highlighting the elders' declaration as a lesson in communal responsibility. It extends the concept to spiritual care, emphasizing that leaders, parents, and grandparents must ensure no Jew is left without physical or spiritual support. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/009

This shiur explores how the Rambam teaches that anyone who dedicates themselves to serving Hashem can attain the spiritual status of a kohen. Through Elul's unique opportunities and the shofar's call, every Jew can make Hashem their true portion and prepare for a sweet new year. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/007

This shiur explores the Torah's expectations for leaders, emphasizing humility and service over ego. Drawing from Parshas Sheftim and stories of sages, it highlights that true leadership means serving others. The Rebbe’s example further illustrates these ideals for all. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/016

This shiur explores the Torah's nuanced approach to appointing a king, the requirements and ambivalence toward monarchy, and the principles of dynastic succession. It draws parallels between royal succession and leadership among Chassidic Rebbeim, culminating in anticipation of Mashiach. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/013

This letter explores the Torah's prohibition against seeking future knowledge through sorcery, emphasizing wholehearted trust in Hashem instead. It distinguishes between personal simplicity and communal guidance via prophecy, highlighting the Chassidic approach to faith and blessings during Elul. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/006

This letter explores the Torah's command for a Jewish king to write two Torah scrolls, highlighting the lessons of humility and responsibility. It illustrates how even minor deviations by leaders like Shaul and Moshe have major consequences, teaching us to value every detail in our spiritual lives. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/005

This letter explores the Chassidic approach to hope and anticipation for Moshiach, highlighting the Rebbe's teachings on maintaining faith even without visible change. Whistling is presented as a unique expression of this hope, reinforcing belief in imminent redemption and inspiring others. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/003

This shiur explores the Torah's command to appoint shoftim and shotrim, applying it both to communal justice and personal spiritual discipline. By guarding our senses and setting internal boundaries, we can better serve Hashem and maintain spiritual focus in daily life. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/002

This shiur explores how the Torah guides us in distinguishing true prophets from false ones. It discusses Moshe's warning against sorcery, the test of fulfilled prophecy, historical disputes among prophets, and the rule that no prophecy can override Torah law except in rare cases like Eliyahu at Mount Carmel. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/005_shoftim/001

This class explores the Rambam's description of the Temple Mount's dimensions, its surrounding wall, and internal structures. It discusses halachic concerns about entering the area today, details about the roof, miracles at the altar, and how arches protected ritual purity. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/002

This class explores the mitzvah of Meiser Sheini, detailing its halachic process, the rules of redeeming produce for money, and why multiple redemptions are not allowed. The Rebbe teaches how human action in sanctifying the physical world creates enduring holiness and personal spiritual growth. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/014

This class explores how the Torah’s laws of maaser sheini and the process of laundering clothes offer profound lessons for spiritual growth. The Rebbe teaches that just as garments are cleansed and renewed, so too can our souls be purified through Torah, mitzvos, and heartfelt prayer. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/011

This class explores the Torah's criteria for kosher animals, focusing on the deeper meaning of split hooves as a symbol for serving Hashem beyond our comfort zones. Drawing from Hasidic teachings and stories from Chazal, we learn how kosher eating elevates creation and refines our service. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/004