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Psycho-Spiritual Insights: Exploring Parasha and Psychology
Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T. Clinical reflections on the Parasha through a psychotherapist lens. Using Artificial intelligence writing for defining clinical ideas and weekly Parasha study to cultivate thought provoking weekly insights.
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Go Forward: Faith in Motion (Parshat Beshalach)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
January 30th, 2026

In Parshat Beshalach, we encounter a transformative moment as Bnei Yisrael, having just left Egypt, find themselves trapped between the pursuing Egyptian army and the seemingly impassable Red Sea. The Parsha recounts the dramatic crossing of the Red Sea, the subsequent song and triumph. However, in the face of this dire situation, Moshe receives a message from Hashem that we can apply to our daily lives. Boxed in between the Sea and the Egyptians …
The Heart we Shape (Parshat Bo)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
January 23rd, 2026

Parshat Bo unfolds a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Bnei Yisrael’s journey toward freedom, with its lessons being especially poignant as we continue to watch our hostages being released. It contains the last three plagues, culminating with the exodus of the new Jewish nation. Amidst these dramatic occurrences, we can identify elements of human behavior that lead to Pharaoh hardening his heart and subsequently Hashem hardening his heart …
Kotzer Ruach: Finding Breath (Parshat Vaera)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
January 15th, 2026

Parshat Vaera begins the slow process of instilling hope in Bnei Yisrael that redemption is approaching. Hashem appears to Moshe Rabbeinu, giving him the strength and language to bring a message of salvation. Yet when Moshe speaks to the nation, still crushed under the weight of slavery, we encounter a moment of profound despair. Exhausted and broken, they cannot absorb his words. The pasuk tells us that Bnei Yisrael did not listen to Moshe "mi k …
Blessed to Be Unique (Parshat Vayechi)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
January 2nd, 2026

Parshat Vayechi not only marks the conclusion to the Sefer of Bereshit, but also the end of Avot’s journey in establishing Bnei Yisrael. As Yaacov Avineu’s life approaches its end, he gathers his sons to bestow upon them his final individualized blessings, and in doing so provides us with a final powerful lesson for eternity. Yaacov Avineu takes the unique approach by tailoring his words specifically to the character, strengths, and areas of …
Lighting Every Candle: Parental Favoritism and Sibling Rivalry (Parshat Vayeshev)
Author:
December 12th, 2025

Parshat Vayeshev unfolds a gripping narrative centered around the complex dynamics of the family of Yaacov. A closer examination reveals an intriguing interplay of psychological concepts, particularly birth order and sibling rivalry, as we delve into the lives of Yosef and his brothers. Humorist Sam Levenson wrote, “Siblings: children of the same parents, each of whom is perfectly normal until they get together.” While families prepare to spe …
Building a Nation Through Delayed Gratification (Parshat Toldot)
Author:
November 20th, 2025

Parshat Toldot offers a fascinating opportunity to explore the psychological concept of delayed gratification, a concept that is central to human behavior and personal development. In this Parsha, we find a compelling example of delayed gratification through Yaacov, who ultimately becomes the third and most accomplished of the Avot.
The story of the Parsha primarily focuses on the struggle between Yaacov and Esav, two very different brothers. …
The Art of Loving (Parshat Chayei Sara)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
November 14th, 2025

Parshat Chayei Sara is often pointed to as the Parsha of Shidduchim, match matching, however it can offer us a powerful insight into the importance of cultivating love. One of the central themes in this parsha is the concept of love and partnership. The marriage between Yitzchak and Rivka provides us with wonderful insights to apply to our own loving relationships.
The passuk says “Vayyikkach et-rivkah vattehi-lo le'ishah vayye'ehaveha - an …
Avraham as Father: A Model for Our Children (Parshat Vayera)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
November 7th, 2025

Parshat Vayera provides us with a continuation of the story of Avraham on his path to becoming the ultimate patriarch of the Jewish nation. As described in the Amidah, while we channel all the Avot in the first Bracha, we end by singling out Avraham. Rambam, in the previous parsha citing a Medresh Tanchuma, introduced us to the concept of “Maaseh Avot Siman L'banim – Whatever has happened to the patriarchs is a sign to the children.” Avraha …
A Grateful Heart (Parshat Lech Lecha)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
October 31st, 2025

Parasha Lech Lecha begins the story of the birth of Bnei Yisrael. While many of us are familiar with the quality of ‘Chesed’ – ‘Loving kindness’ being directly associated with Avraham Avinu, one of his key qualities that is understated is one of his ability to show gratitude. The Parsha provides us with keen insight into the psychological concept of cultivating an attitude of gratitude. The beginning of the Parsha states: “And the Lor …
Weathering the Storm: What Noach Teaches About Family Resilience (Parshat Noach)
Author:
October 24th, 2025

Every family faces its own storms, moments of chaos, uncertainty, and pressure that test the bonds holding us together. In Parshat Noach, we encounter not only the story of a great flood but the story of a family that had to survive it, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. How did Noach and his family weather their storm, and what can we learn from them about family resilience? This tight-knit family of eight navigate the challenges of confi …
Standing Together: Mutual Responsibility Before the Day of Judgment (Parashat Nitzavim)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
September 19th, 2025

As we approach Rosh Hashana, it is not enough to focus only on our relationship with Hashem; we must also inspect and strengthen our bein adam lechaveiro relationships, for how we treat others is inseparable from how we stand before the Ribbono Shel Olam. In Parshat Nitzavim we encounter the concept of mutual responsibility, which holds profound psychological significance pertaining to collective wellbeing. Moshe gathers the entire nation for his …
From Covenant to Confidence: Cultivating Inner Strength (Parashat Ki Tavo)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
September 11th, 2025

Parshat Ki Tavo spells out the blessings and curses first introduced earlier in Sefer Devarim, prior to Bnei Yisrael’s entry into Eretz Yisrael. As the Parasha ends, Moshe Rabeiynu imparts a message of empowerment to the Bnei Yisrael, reminding them of their ability to uphold the covenant and follow the commandments. He instills in them the belief that they have the skills and strength to overcome challenges, emphasizing the power of focused, p …
Small Steps, Eternal Impact (Parshat Eikev)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 14th, 2025

In Parshat Eikev, we are taught a profound lesson on the importance of doing the little things, seen through the transformative impact that seemingly small actions can have on our lives and the lives of others. The opening passuk of Eikev states, "And it shall be, because you will heed these ordinances and keep and perform them, that Hashem, your God, will keep for you the covenant and the kindness that He swore to your forefathers" (Deuteronomy …
Shamor v'zakhor Self Care (Parshat Vaetchanan)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 7th, 2025

In Parshat Vaetchanan the Aseret HaDibrot, Ten Commandments, are repeated but with some significant changes. One of the most famous changes is related to Shabbat. In Parshat Yitro, it says, “Zachor et Yom HaShabbat Lekadosho…” “Remember the Shabbat in order to keep it holy” (Shemot 20:8). In this week’s Parasha it says, “Shamor et Yom HaShabbat Lekadosho…” “Guard the Shabbat to keep it holy” (Devarim 5:12). As mentioned each …
Gentle Truths: The Art of Constructive Criticism (Parshat Devarim)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 1st, 2025

In Parashat Devarim, we find Moshe delivering his final address to Bnei Yisrael before they enter Eretz Yisrael. As Moshe is entering the final days of his life, he begins to provide rebuke and criticism for the people. Using the lens of this Parasha, we can glean valuable insights into the psychological concept of providing constructive criticism.
Sefer Devarim begins with the passuk: “These are the words that Moshe addressed to Bnei Yisrae …
Committing to Your Word (Parshat Matot)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
July 25th, 2025

In Parshat Matot, we learn about the concept of fulfilling vows and oaths as commitments to Hashem. Moshe Rabeynu teaches Bnei Yisrael about the significance of keeping their word and the repercussions for breaking promises. The psychological principle of commitment teaches us that when we make a promise, whether to ourselves or to others, we establish an internal obligation to follow through. This principle can guide us in both our spiritual and …
The Courage to Stand Alone: Pinchas and the Torah's Moral Code (Parshat Pinchas)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
July 17th, 2025

In this week’s Parsha, we meet Pinchas, the grandson of Aharon HaKohen, at a time of national crisis. After Bilaam fails to curse Bnei Yisrael, he incites the women of Moav and Midian to seduce the men, leading to a deadly plague that kills 24,000. In the midst of this breakdown, Zimri, a leader from Shevet Shimon, publicly brings a Midianite woman into the camp in defiance. The leaders are silent. Moshe does not respond. At that moment, Pincha …
When Our Bias Blinds Us: Bilam, Balak, and the Danger of Seeing Only What We Want (Parashat Balak)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
July 10th, 2025

In this weeks Parsha, Bilam, a prophet for hire, is invited by King Balak to curse Bnei Yisrael. Hashem clearly says: “Do not go with them. Do not curse the people, for they are blessed” (Bamidbar 22:12). But Bilam won’t accept “no.” He asks again, and Hashem permits him to go, but only to speak His words. Bilam hears permission, not warning. Blinded by ego and reward, he sets out. When his donkey sees an angel and stops, Bilam beats it …
When Anger Strikes the Rock: Understanding Anger as a Secondary Emotion (Parashat Chukat)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
July 4th, 2025

In Parashat Chukat, the Bnei Yisrael are once again found in a familiar position: wandering the wilderness, thirsty, and discontent. With the recent death of Miriam, their miraculous source of water has disappeared. The people panic. They protest, and their complaints intensify, culminating in hostility against Moshe Rabeynu. In response to their despair, Hashem instructs Moshe to take his staff, gather the people, and speak to the rock. What unf …
When Our Words Come Back to Us (Parashat Korah)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
June 26th, 2025

Parashat Korach presents one of the most emotionally charged confrontations in the Torah. Korach, a cousin of Moshe Rabeynu and Aharon HaCohen, challenges their leadership with the stinging accusation: "רַב לָכֶם – You’ve taken too much for yourselves!" At first glance, it seems like a political rebellion hidden in the language of religiousness. But deeper psychological and emotional layers emerge when we examine how Moshe Rabeynu res …
From Setback to Comeback: Lessons from Pesach Sheni (Parsha Beha’alotcha)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
June 13th, 2025

Judaism is a religion of second changes and everyone loves a comeback story. In Parshat Beha’alotcha, we encounter a remarkable story of having a second chance, the story of Pesach Sheni. This special holiday was instituted for those who had a setback leading to impurity making them unable to bring the Pesach offering. To have a comeback, you first need a setback. Pesach Sheni offers a profound lesson interwoven with the psychological conce …
Adapting in the Desert: A Blueprint from Bamidbar (Parshat Bamidbar)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
May 30th, 2025

Parshat Bamidbar, the first parsha of the new sefer, often read right before Shavout, sets the stage for Bnei Yisrael’s journey through the Midbar – the desert, wilderness. Bamidbar opens not only a journey through space, but a journey through self—a psychological training ground for adaptability. The Mechilta (Yitro: Bachodesh 1) shares the connection between the Parsha and upcoming celebration of Matan Torah being juxtaposed a …
Choice over Victimhood (Parshat Bechukotai)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
May 22nd, 2025

In Parshat Bechukotai we encounter the powerful description of the blessings and curses associated with following or violating Hashem’s mitzvot. Seemingly the torah provides a clear choice: follow in Hashem’s way leading to peace, happiness, and salvation or disobey leading to anguish, suffering, and exile. This parsha provides us an opportunity to explore the psychological concept of learned helplessness, which often created a victim …
The Weight of the Word: Atonement, Confession, and the Healing of the Soul (Parshat Acharei Mot)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
May 9th, 2025

Parshat Acharei Mot contains profound insights into the human experience, including the psychological concept of catharsis. This Parsha delves into the rituals of atonement performed by the Kohen Gadol on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year. Amidst the detailed instructions for sacrifice and purification, there lies a powerful lesson about the cathartic nature of confession and atonement. True atonement begins not with the mouth, but with the …
When the Body Speaks (Parshat Tazria)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
May 1st, 2025

In Parshat Tazria, we learn about the concept of ‘Tzaraat,’ often mistranslated as leprosy. However, Tzaraat is not merely a physical affliction, but a visible manifestation of a spiritual malady.  Although Tzaraat was an affliction of the skin and the person afflicted would be isolated, unlike leprosy, the isolation of the Metzora (one who had Tzaraat) had nothing to do with contagion. This spiritual affliction portrayed by a ph …
Silent Tears: Navigating Bereavement (Parshat Shemini)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
April 24th, 2025

Parshat Shemini begins with the sanctification of the Mikdash by Aharon HaCohen a day that could have been the spiritual pinnacle of his life. We know that the day suddenly takes a turn with the tragic deaths of his sons, Nadav & Avihu. The sudden loss of Nadav and Avihu profoundly impacts Aharon and Bnei Yisrael. Their deaths evoke deep sorrow and mourning, reflecting the human experience of bereavement.   Bereavement is a multifaceted …
Affection in Rituals Gratitude (Parshat Vayikra)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
April 3rd, 2025

Parshat Vayikra begins the Sefer that will discuss all the laws pertaining to Korbanot, Kohen duties, and guidance towards holiness. The Sefer is also referred to as Torat Kohanim, largely in part due to the description of the sacrifices performed in the Mishkan. In the midst of these sacrifices, we learn about the "Shelamim – Peace Offering," which holds profound significance, not only in ritual but also in its psychological implications, …
Mastery with Meaning (Parshat Pekudei)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
March 28th, 2025

  Parshat Pekudei, the culmination of Sefer Shemot, provides a fitting backdrop to explore the psychological concept of mastery. In this Parsha, we read about the meticulous construction of the Kaylim and Mishkan, the sanctuary that served as a dwelling place for Hashem during their journey in the midbar. At first glance, the detailed descriptions of the construction process may seem overwhelming or even tedious. However, upon deeper reflect …
Moral Courage: Queen Esther’s Legacy (Purim Edition)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
March 12th, 2025

Purim is a holiday of hidden miracles, where Hashem orchestrates salvation behind the scenes. But the turning point of the Megillah was not a miracle; it was a moment of profound moral courage. Queen Esther, faced with an impossible choice, had to decide whether to risk her life to save her people. Mordechai’s words to her echo through the generations: "כִּ֣י אִם־הַחֲרֵ֣שׁ תַּחֲרִ֘ישִׁי֮ בָּעֵ֣ת הַז …
From Stiff-Necked to Strong-Spirited: Cultivating Flexibility in Life (Parshat Ki Tisa)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
March 12th, 2025

Parshat Ki Tisa delves into the story of the sin of the Golden Calf and the subsequent conversation between Moshe Rabeynu and Hashem related to the consequences. During this back and forth, Hashem characterizes Bnei Yisrael as a “stiff-necked people” as the motivation behind many of our struggles. The parsha provides us an opportunity to explore the psychological concept of being Stiff-Necked and the lessons we can learn to overcome t …
Precision Holiness: Being Detail-Oriented (Parshat Tetzaveh)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
March 6th, 2025

  How you do anything is how you do everything. Parshat Tetzaveh focus on the elaborate designing of the clothing for the Kohanim, emphasizing intricate details and precision.  In the modern fast-paced world, where attention spans are fleeting, the Parsha’s emphasis to meticulous detail in the description of the garments carries a profound message about the importance of being detail oriented and precise in all our actions.   …
The Sacred Psychology of Giving (Parshat Terumah)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
February 28th, 2025

Terumah presents a profound exploration of the psychology of giving as it unfolds within the construction of the Mishkan. The Parsha details the meticulous instructions for creating a space on Earth to connect with Hashem. The Parsha starts by saying, “V'yikchu Li Terumah – and you should take for yourselves a contribution for me' (Exodus 25:2).” This passuk goes beyond the mere physical construction and provides valuable insigh …
Transformative Justice: Rehabilitation (Parshat Mishpatim)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
February 20th, 2025

Parshat Mishpatim delves into the rules set forth after the Ten Commandments, establishing a just world run through the divine providence of Hashem. While there were many commandments that the Torah could have begun this Parsha with, the focus on the acquisition and treatment of a Jewish slave provides us a profound lesson in the treatment of individuals whose life circumstances have led them astray. In considering the psychological concept of re …
Delegation, Burnout, and Leadership: Yitro’s Timeless Wisdom (Parshat Yitro)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
February 14th, 2025

Any one with in-laws can relate to this week’s Parsha. There are only two people in the Torah who provide criticism to Moshe Rabeynu. One is Hashem, who we see time after time providing Moshe with guidance and feedback. The second is Moshe’s father in law.  Parshat Yitro presents a pivotal moment in the story of Bnei’s Yisrael’s acceptance of the Torah. Moshe Rabeynu’s  father-in-law, Yitro, visits him and …
Moving Forward toward Transformation (Parshat Beshalach)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
February 13th, 2025

In Parshat Beshalach, we encounter a transformative moment as Bnei Yisrael, having just left Egypt, find themselves trapped between the pursuing Egyptian army and the seemingly impassable Red Sea. The Parsha recounts the dramatic crossing of the Red Sea, the subsequent song and triumph. However, in the face of this dire situation, Moshe receives a message from Hashem that we can apply to our daily lives. Boxed in between the Sea and the Egyptians …
Breaking the Chains of our Mind (Parshat Bo)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
January 31st, 2025

Parshat Bo unfolds a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Bnei Yisrael’s journey towards freedom, with its lessons being especially poignant as we continue to watch out hostages being released.  It contains the last three plagues, culminating with the exodus of the new Jewish nation. Amidst these dramatic occurrences, we can identify elements of human behavior leading to Pharoah’s motivation to hardening his heart and subsequen …
Breathing Resilience (Parshat Vaera)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
January 24th, 2025

Parshat Vaera begins the process of instilling hope into Bnei Yisrael that the redemption is nearing. Hashem appears to Moshe Rabeynu providing him the inspiration to approach Bnei Yisrael with a message of salvation. When Moshe approaches the nation, currently in servitude, we encounter a moment of profound despair. As they are burdened by the harshness of their slavery, they are unable to heed the words of their future leader.   The Passuk …
Resisting the Current (Parshat Shemot)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
January 16th, 2025

  This week we begin a new Sefer of the Torah and Parashat Shemot, we encounter the powerful story of the Jewish midwives, Shifra & Puah, whose courageous defiance of Pharaoh’s decree sparked the birth of the Jewish redemption.  Their actions provide us a compelling lesson about not falling prey to the present forces of the outside world. Amidst the oppression and cruelty of Mitzrayim, their actions shed light on the psycholog …
Individualized Blessings (Parshat Vayechi)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
January 10th, 2025

Parshat Vayechi not only marks the conclusion to the Sefer of Bereshit, but also the end of Avot’s journey in establishing Bnei Yisrael. As Yaacov Avineu’s life approaches its end, he gathers his sons to bestow upon them his final individualized blessings, and in doing so provides us with a final powerful lesson for eternity.   Yaacov Avineu takes the unique approach by tailoring his words specifically to the character, strengths …
Reconnecting Hearts : Exploring Cutoff & Reconciliation (Parshat Vayigash)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
January 1st, 2025

Parshat Vayigash, nestled in the heart of Yosef’s story, is a powerful account of familial strife, emotional cutoff, and ultimately, the profound journey towards reconciliation. This story not only provides a glimpse into the complexities of human relationships but also offers profound insights into the corrosiveness of emotional cutoff and the transformative power of reconciliation. Parshat Vayigash opens with the words “Vayigas …
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