Vaera - Silence Amidst Chaos

Why is the parsha split up in such a way that we get only the first seven plagues in this week's parsha? What is the significance of the numbers seven and ten? Why is it so important for us to know that the Jews were singled out and that the plagues did not touch their area in Egypt? Why is the Nile river turned into blood instead of just being dried up? What is the concept of blood, which is 'dam' in Hebrew, and what is the relationship to 'dom' in Hebrew, which means silence?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 20:04

Shemos - Foundations of Exile

What is the depth behind the concept of exile? Why do the children of Israel go through exile, while Yishmael and Esav do not? How and why does Hashem bring us gently down into exile? What was the difference between Yaacov and his forebears that created the reality that all his sons were righteous, while this was not true of the previous patriarchs?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 23:13

Vayechi - Finding Good Points

Why is Yakov unable to bless Yosef's sons? How is Yosef able to bring back the divine presence so Yakov can bless them? What is the difference between the approach of Yakov and Yosef? What is the concept of finding good points, even in those who are evil?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Vayigash - Love and Tears

What is the significance of Yosef's tears? Why does he only cry on the shoulder of Benjamin, whereas he kisses and cries with each of the other brothers? What is the significance of the numerical values of Yosef and Yakov's names? What is the concept of the kiss? What is the concept of tears?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time:  19:59