Psychology & Behavior

Question: I have read in Exodus 25 that the Holy Ark measured 2½ x 1½ x 1½ cubits. What was the symbolism of the half measures? Answer: Here is a beautiful insight that I saw in the writings of Rabbi Isaiah Halevi Horowitz (16th century): The Ark containe...

We arranged an appointment. I came prepared. I made my pitch, explained our plans, emphasized the opportunities that lay ahead and then paused. The pause. That time it didn't work.

The concept of “Dirah Betachtonim” (G‑d’s desire for a “dwelling in the lowly realms”); how the purpose of Creation is realized in the most ordinary, everyday actions

If G-d desired a Tabernacle, why didn’t He provide the materials and funds Himself?

G-d does not require spectacular spires or museums to house His holy presence. Where is He found? In the nitty-gritty nuts and bolts of a simple synagogue.

Why did G‑d instruct that the lesser materials of silver and copper also be used in the Mishkan's construction? Surely pure gold would have looked much more spectacular...

At times we may feel that a life of Torah and Mitzvahs is difficult and too much to carry. But the truth is that it is not us who are carrying the Torah, rather the Torah is carrying us! This idea is seen in how the Levites carries the heavy Holy Ark. Thi...

If you think about your day, does it seem like it is primarily materialistic and mundane? Truthfully though we have the mandate to transform every aspect of our daily lives into something spiritual and G-dly. This is what the Temple is really all about. T...

The deeper meaning behind the different opinions in the Talmud and commentaries regarding the menorah’s spatial alignment inside the Temple, and regarding the identity of its miraculous “western lamp.”

Let us explore the fact that the Temple was built on a mountain, and then we can unpack its lessons.