Parshat Ki Tavo by Rabbi Ian Lichter

As we look forward to the recitation of Slichot in preparation of Yomim Noraim, the connection between this time of year and Parshat Ki Tavo strikes me.  The Ashkenazik practice is to begin the recitation of Slichot on a Motzei Shabbat, minimally 4 days before Rosh...

Parashat Ki Teitze by Rabbi Moshe Lichtman

THE LEAP OF FAITH One of the many mitzvot enumerated in this week’s parashah is the prohibition of causing a fellow Jew to take interest (ribit) – i.e., borrowing money on interest.  (The prohibition of lending on interest is stated in Shemot 22:24 and VaYikra...

Parashat Ki Teitzei by Rabbi Howard Jachter

Sh’mor Sh’eirit Yisrael!             It was an unusually thunderous speech from Rav Aharon Lichtenstein delivered on Purim 5442 (1982) at Yeshivat Har Etzion, one of Israel’s premier Yeshivot Hesder.  Rav Lichtenstein summoned the Talmidim to follow the example of...

Parashat Shoftim by Rabbi Moshe D. Lichtman

PERMANENT PROPERTY You shall not move your fellow man’s boundary, which the earlier ones established, in your inheritance that you shall inherit, in the Land that the Lord, your God, gives you to possess it.  (19:14) The Midrash (Sifrei) comments: What does this verse...