Balak - Getting Hashem's Hint

The Parsha Podcast celebrates its 10 year anniversary - 10 years of podcasts every week! How was R' Yochanan able to understand the hint of the angel and go on to greatness? What was the difference between Moshe and Yaakov vs. David and Mordechai when it came to getting the hint? Why did Bilaam get open and subtle hints? How do we recognize Hashem's hints for us?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 25:30

Balak - Threshold Immorality

After 540 years of existence as the Jewish people, why do they face such a great test in licentious behavior just as they are entering Israel? What is parallel to Avraham and his interaction with Sodom as he is about to conceive Isaac? What is the concept of the 'Shittim River' which causes those who drink of it to be involved in licentious behavior? Why was there a special desire for this type of behavior immediately before the rebuilding of the Second Temple?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 25:11

Balak - Forces and Counter-forces

Why is Balak so bent on destroying the Jewish people? Why does his desire for their destruction not wane despite the miracles Hashem performs on their behalf? Why does Hashem give power to those who will wield it for such evil? What is the depth of the nature of Amalek in contrast to the people of Israel?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 22:03

Balak - Uncovering the still, fine voice

What is Bilam's underlying intention? Does Hashem want him to go with Balak's men or not? What is the understanding of Hashem's approach? What is the concept of the Yetzer Hara before and after? How does one access the still, fine voice that Hashem speaks about with Eliyahu?

Find out in this week's Parsha Podcast.

Running time: 16:27

Balak - Swallowing development

From where did our chazal see that Bilaam was so evil? What was his fundamental character flaw? Why did he experience such a strange miracle, namely the speaking donkey? Why did he speak of the End of Days? Why is the story followed by the prince of the tribe of Shimon's sin? What is the connection to the previous theme?

Find out in this week's Parsha Podcast.