Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes

We discuss how this week’s Parsha is connected to Chanukah. We speculate about Yosef’s experience in the pit. Then we discuss the opinion of the Alter of Slabodka that every individual has a spark of the first Man inside of them. Then we reveal how one can mine that greatness within themselves.

We connect the weekly portion, Vayeishev, to Chanukah. Then we enumerate some of the Halachic considerations for the electric Menorah issue. How much oil is needed? Who can light it? What is the goal of lighting it. This class was given on 12/17/08.

We discuss a case where a fellow was tricked by the wife’s family to give her a divorce. We enumerate some of the intricacies of Jewish law regarding conditions placed on a divorce. What are people’s intentions based upon the given circumstances or promises made by those around them? This class was given on 11/1/05. The last 10 minutes of this audio are poor quality. Nevertheless, this discussion...

We discuss the message Yaakov Sent Lavan. I have lived with Lavan, kept the 613 Mitzvos, and didn’t learn from his evil actions. Did Yaakov keep the Mitzvos? Why didn’t he learn from Lavan’s actions? And what do the two matters have in common?

* throwback episode

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We present the perspective of the Alter of Slobadka in the Ohr Hatzafon regarding Esav’s nature. How entrenched in his psyche was the ability to perform the mitzvah of honoring one’s parents?

We enumerate approximately 10 reasons why Yitzchak became blind. We then explain how those reasons were contributing factors to one outcome. We emphasize that life is much more complex then one binary equation. We also point out that in the final analysis Hashem is in control of any set of factors. This class was given on 9/1/05.

We discuss the definition of prayer and it’s efficacy.

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We analyze the dynamics in Avraham and Sarah’s relationship especially in the context of Hagar living in their house with Avraham’s son. The analysis is based upon Adam’s defense as to why he ate from the Tree of Knowledge.

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We present the perspective of the Altar of Slobotka regarding existence. Since we constantly commit micro-infractions in addition to bonafide sins, how is it possible that the world still exists? We discuss the role played by Avraham Avinu and his attribute of chesed. We then gleen a lesson for ourselves - how do we navigate such an existence?

 throwback episode - We discuss various scenarios that challenge our moral instincts from a Halachic perspective. Can one shoot down a plane full of people that is headed for the World Trade Center? Can one redirect a trolly to save a group of people but killing one? Is one allowed to give away a pursued person that is slated for death to marauders? Or is one obligated to face death instead? We re...

In this Sheva Brachos speech we discuss the concept of blessing Hashem. We mention that everyone has a potential for greatness. Then we conclude with explaining the power of believing in something.

We discuss the dispute between R’ Yochanan & Reish Lakish recorded in Zevachim (113a) on whether the flood was also in Eretz Yisrael. We hint to the fact that survival of the figurative flood requires a high spiritual status. We also contemplate the veracity of miracles related in the Torah.

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In a Sheva Brachos speech we discuss how Simcha, joy, brings the couple closer. We point out that whether marriage is difficult or less difficult that it’s all meant for the best. God has given us the possibility of such a union for our good.

* throwback episode * We read the text of the Ramban regarding Biblical lifespans. We discuss the reasons and opinions as why people lived for so long. What were the contributing factors? Diet, habitat, atmosphere, or the Fear of God?

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Yahrtzeit Shiur in memory of Svetlana bas Yaakov in the Bronsteyn Succah. We embellish the insight of Rabbi Apelbaum about gratitude. The secret to happiness especially on Succos is gratitude and appreciation. See how Haman’s and Adam’s situations illustrates this idea.

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We get into an involved Halachic discussion as to what portions we read on Simchas Torah. We also point out some thematic rationals as to why those portions are read at this particular time. We also speak about the study of Torah in terms of our responsibility to learn it. This is an annual Yartzeit Class in memory of my mother, Svetlana bas Yaakov.

Throwback episode

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