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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Showing Results 0 - 40 (91 total)
Spiritual Somatization (Parshat Tazria)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
April 11th, 2024
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 …
Walls of Adversity: Exploring Post-Traumatic Growth (Parshat Metzora)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
April 18th, 2024
In Parshat Metzora we continue to learn about ‘Tzaraat,’ often mistranslated as leprosy, but rather a visible divine mark manifesting when a person engages in some sinful interpersonal behavior. Tzaraat begins on the walls of the home, progressing to the clothing, then skin for individuals who do not heed the divine caution towards reflection due to its manifestation. For an individual to experience a comeback, they first need to face …
Pesach: Four Sons - A Tapestry of Individualized Communication
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
April 21st, 2024
The Talmud Yerushalmi in Pesachim provides us with one of the most famous Midrashim on the entire Hagaddah, ‘K’neged Arba’ah Banim’, the story of the Four Sons. This story offers a rich tapestry of psychological insight when viewed through the lense of individualization of attention whether for children or generalized overall. Communication works for those who work at it. Each individualized interaction is an opportunity t …
Navigating Bereavement (Parshat Shemini)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
April 3rd, 2024
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, …
Shabbat: Built in Self-Care (Parshat Vaetchanan)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 15th, 2024
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 …
Favorable Judgement
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 16th, 2023
In Parshat Shoftim we learn about the establishment of a just society, through the appointment of judges and officers. While the Torah discusses the importance of impartial judgment in legal matters, it also subtly emphasizes the value of judging ourselves and others favorably on a psychological and interpersonal level. It is fitting that my Bar Mitzvah Parasha, which always falls around my birthday of Rosh Chodesh Elul, deals with judgement. No …
Honoring Commitments (Parashat Matot)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 1st, 2024
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 …
Power of Little Things (Parshat Eikev)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 22nd, 2024
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 …
Overcoming the Bystander Effect
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 24th, 2023
In Parshat Ki Teitzei we encounter various laws and ethical guidelines that address our responsibilities towards others. In the second perek of the parsha Moshe Rabeynu expresses, “lo-tireh et-shor aḥícha o et-seyo niddaḥím vehit'allamta mehem hashev teshívem leaḥícha” – “If you see your fellow Israelite’s ox or sheep gone astray, do not ignore it; you must take it back to your peer& …
The Power of Little Things
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 2nd, 2023
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 …
Ki Tavo: Empowerment through Self-Efficacy
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 30th, 2023
Parshat Ki Tavo spells out the blessings and curses first introduced earlier in Sefer Devarim prior to Bnei Yisrael’s entry into Ertz 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 possess the necessary skills and strength to overcome challenges by focusing on positi …
Breaking the Cycle of Self-Sabotage (Parshat Re'eh)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 30th, 2024
In Parshat Re'eh, we encounter a powerful lesson about the choices we make and their consequences. The Torah highlights the importance of choosing to adhere to Hashem’s commandments and the potential pitfalls that come with straying from the right path. This choice reflects the psychological concept of self-sabotage, where individuals may unconsciously undermine their own well-being or success. The Parasha starts out by saying, …
Constructive Criticism: A Path to Growth (Parashat Devarim)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 8th, 2024
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 Bne …
Re'eh: Breaking the Cycle of Self-Sabotage
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
August 9th, 2023
In Parshat Re'eh, we encounter a powerful lesson about the choices we make and their consequences. The Torah highlights the importance of choosing to adhere to Hashem’s commandments and the potential pitfalls that come with straying from the right path. This choice reflects the psychological concept of self-sabotage, where individuals may unconsciously undermine their own well-being or success. The Parasha starts out by saying, &ldqu …
Confronting the Esav Within (Parshat Vayishlach)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
December 12th, 2024
In Parshat Vayishlach, we witness Yaacov Avinu’s dramatic encounter with his brother Esav after years of separation. The passuk says “Vayyira ya'akov me'od – Yaacov was greatly frightened,” (Genesis 32:8) when hearing that Esav was coming to see him. The Chizkuni tells us that Yaakov feared that although he had sent a conciliatory message to Esav, he was afraid that through some inadvertent sin he might have committed rece …
From Pit to Palace: Resilience in the Face of Adversity (Parshat Miketz)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
December 14th, 2023
Parshat Miketz, recounts the dramatic rise of Yosef in Egypt, offers a profound exploration of the psychological concept of resilience. Yosef’s journey from being thrown into a pit by his brothers to eventually becoming a high-ranking official in Paroah’s court is a testament to the human capacity to endure and overcome adversity. The psychological concept of resilience is defined as the ability to bounce back from difficult ex …
Parental Favoritism & Sibling Rivalry (Parshat Vayeshev)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
December 18th, 2024
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 prepar …
Reconnecting Hearts: Exploring Cutoff & Reconciliation (Parshat Vayigash)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
December 20th, 2023
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 “Vayig …
Individualized Blessings: Expressing Personalized Nurturance (Parshat Vayechi)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
December 27th, 2023
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’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 takes the unique approach by tailoring his words specifically to the character, strengths, and areas of …
From Pit to Palace: Resilience in the Face of Adversity (Parshat Miketz)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
December 27th, 2024
Parshat Miketz, recounts the dramatic rise of Yosef in Egypt, offers a profound exploration of the psychological concept of resilience. Yosef’s journey from being thrown into a pit by his brothers to eventually becoming a high-ranking official in Paroah’s court is a testament to the human capacity to endure and overcome adversity. The psychological concept of resilience is defined as the ability to bounce back from difficult ex …
Overcoming Gaslighting (Parshat Vayetzei)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
December 5th, 2024
Parashah Vayetzei introduces us to the trickery of Lavan HaArami, a character who stands as a paradigm of deceit and selfishness. The dialogue between Lavan and Yaakov Avinu, starting with the words, “Just because you are my close relative, should you serve me for nothing? Tell me, what shall your wages be (Bereishit 29:15), opens a window into the complex dynamics between these two figures. At first glance, Lavan's words seem generous, off …
Parental Favoritism & Sibling Rivalry (Parshat Vayeshev)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
December 6th, 2023
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 prepar …
Transformative Justice: Rehabilitation Paradigm (Parshat Mishpatim)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
February 13th, 2024
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 …
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 …
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 …
Sacred Psychology of Giving (Parshat Terumah)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
February 15th, 2024
Parshat 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 valuabl …
Delegation: A Father in Law’s Wisdom (Parshat Yitro)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
February 1st, 2024
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 …
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 …
Precision in Holiness: Being Detail-Oriented (Parshat Tetzaveh)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
February 22nd, 2024
How you do anything is how you do everything. Parshat Tetzaveh focus on the elaborate desgining 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 ps …
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 …
Embracing Flexibility: Overcoming Stiff-Neckedness (Parshat Ki Tisa)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
February 29th, 2024
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 …
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 …
Breathing Hope (Parshat Vaera)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
January 11th, 2024
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 …
Breaking the Chains of the Mind (Parshat Bo)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
January 18th, 2024
Parshat Bo unfolds a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Bnei Yisrael’s journey towards freedom. 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 subsequently Hashem hardening his heart for him. Many classical commentators address how Hashem could take away …
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 …
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 …
Moving Forward towards Transformation (Parshat Beshalach)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
January 25th, 2024
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 …