Shmini - Mishkan and Creation

What is the construct of the form through which Hashem creates the world and we create the Mishkan (Tabernacle)? How does this also parallel the way we receive the Torah, and the final war of Armageddon that precedes the construction of the third Temple? What is the aspect of Binah, which is the 8th aspect, and how does it relate to the first seven?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 25:38

Pesach - Seder-Order

Why is the entire body of customs we perform on the first night of Pesach referred to as the Seder (Order)? Why does the goat (that Abba bought for two coins) die and never come back to life if it represents the Jewish people? Why is the building of the Beis Hamikdash (temple) mentioned in Dayeinu if it was not built until 480 years after the exodus? What is the core concept of Pesach and how does it relate to the concept of Moshiach ben Dovid? 

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 23:07

Tzav - Spiritual Honesty

Why does Aharon, who the Torah itself describes as a righteous prophet, require extra encouragement in regards to a sacrifice he brings but does not benefit from? Why do we find this type of approach in regards to other areas as well? Why does the soldier going out to battle, who our sages say is specifically someone without sin, have a process for marrying the beautiful woman on the battle field? What is the correct approach to dealing with our human frailties?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 23:44

Vayikra - Heed the Call

What is the significance of Moshe's not entering the Mishkan when the cloud fills it? Does he do that because he's unable to enter, or because he chooses not to enter? What is the pattern of Moshe's standing back, and why is he chosen for this trait? How can we use this idea in our own lives?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 21:58

Vayakhel-Pekudei - Spiritual Source

Why does the Torah tell us of Betzalel's family origins? What is the significance of the 'intellect, wisdom and knowledge' with which he was endowed? Why was it important that the mishkan (santuary) be built with these aspects? How does it parallel the creation of the world? Why does the Torah stress that Hashem was the source of these powers of Betzalel? How does the mishkan serve to atone for the sin of the Golden Calf? What was the difference between the way the Jews brought their gold for the calf, as opposed to how they brought their gold for the mishkan?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Runing time: 25:01

Ki Sisa - Spiritual Contrasts

What is the meaning of the verse that says that "to You, Hashem, is charity, while we have embarrassment? How does this verse apply in the context of charity? How does charity transform curses into blessings? How does the verse apply to the contrast between how we behave in defiance of God, versus how He treats us?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 20:55

Tetzaveh - Lighting and Oil

What is the concept of Olive Oil? Why does the Torah specifically ask us to use it for the lighting of the Menorah in the sanctuary? Why are the Jewish people compared to an olive? How does this reflect the special nature of the Jewish people as a 'light to the nations?' How does the study of Torah serve to shine that light?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 24:37

Terumah - Excitement vs Joy

What is the difference between the Mishkan (Tabernacle) and the Mikdash (Temple)? Why does one constantly move, while one is only in a single location? What is the difference between the joy of the month of Adar and Purim as opposed to the month of Nissan and Pesach (Passover)? What is the depth behind the two ways people gave to the Mishkan - some from heirlooms passed for generations for this purpose, others from wealth they had just obtained? What is the difference between Moshiach ben Yosef and Moshiach ben Dovid?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 24:20

Mishpatim - Giving out Giving in

What is the idea behind the prohibition of lending with interest? What is the end of result of the rich man who makes his money by lending with interest? Why are we exhorted not to lend with interest, and told that if we do so, the money will end up in the hands of our enemies? Why does one's field produce a greater crop when they give a tithe to charity?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 21:44

Yisro - Lion's Roar

What is the idea behind Hashem being compared to a Lion Roaring as He reveals Himself on Mount Sinai? When is Hashem referred to as the 'King of the Nations?' What is the idea behind the mountain shaking and then the boundaries of the Torah? What is the concept of fear of Hashem? Why are the Jewish people, the Temple and Hashem all referred to as a Lion? What is the concept of rejoicing in trembling? Why was the entire world silent when Hashem said the words, 'I am Hashem your God?' How does this relate to the times of Moshiach?

Find out in this week's parsha podcast.

Running time: 28:59