Parshat Noach
Dear STOCS Friend: How should we understand the nature of the great Flood that engulfed the world in the time of Noach? Undoubtedly, it was a punishment, a direct response to humanity's corruption and moral decay. Yet it should not be seen only as a catastrophe that destroyed the world. Was it, in fact, also an act that saved the world, cleansing and resetting it for renewal? Or might there be a unique perspective on the Flood’s deeper purpose and meaning? Following the e
Parshat Bereshit
Dear STOCS Friend: In memory of my dear beloved wife Devorah Laya bas Rachmiel Yitzchok Halevi. Her third yahrzeit is this Shabbas. With all of Klal Yisroel beginning the Torah again from Braishis, the following question comes up: If Hashem is infinite, how is He able to fit in our universe? The Midrash explains that God engaged in a tzimtzum , contraction, thereby He has the “ability” to fit in the universe. Rav Soloveitchek points out that this tzimtzum was for the sake
Parshat Shelach
Dear STOCS Friend: Parashat Shelach reminds us of the profound significance of the Land of Israel. Moses sends twelve spies to scout the...
Parshat Acharei-Mot Kedoshim
Dear STOCS Friend: This week, we have the special privilege of reading a double portion: Acharei Mot–K’doshim . The title of Rabbi Joseph...
Parshat Tazria-Metzora
Dear STOCS Friend: When discussing the upcoming double Parasha, Tazria-Metzora, much attention is often given to how the power of words...
Parshat Vayakhel
Dear STOCS Friend: As many are aware I do not grow up observant. I was in my mid-teens, living in West Hempstead, Long Island on Redmont...
