Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes

We discuss the importance of Government and Police from the Torah perspective. Why are they necessary. And, are people truly evil when left to their own devices?

We explore how the Parsha hints to the reality of the Resurrection. Then we answer some curious questions about that time period. Will people recognize each other from their past? In which state will they be resurrected?

We discuss the concept of the Image of God according to Rabbi Chaim Voloziner. We then apply it to the current debate about race in this country.

We list over 10 reasons why we eat dairy on Shavuos. Please excuse the technical difficulties at the end of the class.

We answer the question of whether one is allowed to put themselves at risk to earn a livelyhood. During this pandemic one may contract the Corona Virus by going to work, reopening their restaurant or place of business. Are they allowed to take that risk to avoid financial ruin?

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We discuss risk assessment during a pandemic. With the corona virus upon us it is important the be aware of some the issues involved regarding determining the risks to individuals and society before determining a course of action.

We discuss the Jewish Law regarding counting people. When is it prohibited? Permissible? Under what circumstances? Then we present the reasonable underpinnings of this law. Kollel 5-12-10

We learn something of the words of the Ohr HaChaim on the first verse in Bechukosai. We specifically focus on the idea that Torah study should be the default activity in our lives.

We outline the basic ideas behind the holiday of Lag Ba’Omer. We also present a novel approach to why there is such a big hoopla surrounding this Holiday according to the perspective of the Responsa of the Shem Aryeh.

We discuss the unique characteristic of the Land of Israel and why it engenders a more intimate relationship with God. At the same time, living in our land isn’t an absolution from other Mitzvos.

The message of the Jewish Holidays is the Sanctification of God’s name. That requires true commitment. We look at this brilliant insight of Rabbi Shwab’s on this week’s Parsha.

We look at the fundamentally ethical and conceptual aspects of the mitzvah of the Santification of God’s name. We then apply it to some halachic considerations. For example, was R’ Elchanan Wasserman, of blessed memory, justified in leaving the safety of the United States, during WW2, to come to Europe to comfort his students knowing full well that he would be murdered by the Nazis?

We examine the reason why the death of the Righteous is an atonement for the Jewish People. We also relate a halachic question about a fellow who was at a heavily attended funeral. Then he climbed on a roof of a car to save himself from being trampled. Then the roof collapsed. Is he liable for damages?

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The Torah and it’s mitzvos is a way of life. Also, it’s the passageway to the next world. Therefore, all are responsible to engage in the Mitzvos. We discuss the different levels of maturity & responsibility that young people have towards those Mitzvos as they grow up. Phx Kollel 4-29-2009

Bilvavi Mishkan Avne’s perspective of how the mitzvah of circumcision represents order that is born out of chaos.

**Throwback episode** We survey the major literature of opinions regarding Tzoras. Was it supernatural or physical? Why did it happen? Was it contagious? Does it still happen today? In what form? What is the cure?

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We share an insight into the Parsha from R’ Tzadok HaCohen. A perception that he gained in his sleep during a dream. Then we discuss dreams in Halacha. Can one perform Mitzvos while they are dreaming? Is one liable if they damage property while they sleepwalk?

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Halacha of Pesach

Pesach

Fear can be lethal. We contend that one shouldn’t be afraid during a pandemic as we discussed in episode #38. One of the ways to engender confidence and calmness is through gratitude which is an obligation in this week’s Parsha.

Pre-Pesach Zoom drasha for the Ohr HaTorah Congregation of Phoenix. We discuss the depth of the well known theme of Pesach- that we are free and royalty. This idea is of consequence on both a micro and macro level. Freedom needs acquisition.  One who is free isn't as free as one who has earned freedom.