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)
Favorable Judgement (Parshat Shoftim)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
September 6th, 2024
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 …
Nitzavim: Unity Through Mutual Responsibility
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
September 6th, 2023
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 final address to renew our covenant with Hashem. Mutual responsibility teaches us that we are connected. Regardless of background, status, or personal journey, every individual is united in this pivotal moment, forming a collective covenant. The fi …
Unity Through Mutual Responsibility
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
September 27th, 2024
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 final address to renew our covenant with Hashem. Mutual responsibility teaches us that we are connected. Regardless of background, status, or personal journey, every individual is united in this pivotal moment, forming a collective covenant. The fi …
Empowerment through Self-Efficacy (Parshat Ki Tavo)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
September 20th, 2024
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 …
Overcoming the Bystander Effect (Parshat Ki Teitzei)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
September 13th, 2024
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& …
A Path to Redemption: Tips from Addiction Treatment
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
September 13th, 2023
Azarat Yemi Teshuva During Azarat Yemi Teshuva, we engage in deep introspection, reflection, and repentance, seeking forgiveness for our sins and striving to improve ourselves in the eyes of Hashem. The concept of Teshuva, or repentance, is central to these ten days. It reminds us that we are not defined by our past mistakes; instead, we have the power to change and grow. The process of Teshuva involves acknowledging our wrongdoing, feeling …
Family Dynamics (Parshat Noach)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
October 31st, 2024
Parshat Noach delves into the story of Noah and the great flood. The central focus of the parsha is the family of Noah, who, together with his wife, three sons, and their wives, survive the deluge aboard the ark. This tight-knit family of eight navigate the challenges of confinement and isolation during their time on the ark, offering us profound insights into familial interactions and their psychological dynamics. Family dynamics refer to …
Harvesting Joy: Exploring Sukkot and the Psychology of Happiness
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
October 2nd, 2023
As Yom Kippur comes to a close, we are quickly ushered into the Chag of Sukkot. There is a mitzvah to rejoice on all of the holidays, yet there is special emphasis on being joyful during Sukkot. The Yalkut Shimoni highlights that the Torah commands us to rejoice on Sukkot three times (as opposed to Shavuot, when we are commanded once, and Pesach, when we are not explicitly commanded to rejoice). Furthermore, in our holiday prayers, each holiday i …
Attitude of Gratitude
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
October 29th, 2023
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, 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: “ …
Family Dynamics
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
October 19th, 2023
Parshat Noach delves into the story of Noah and the great flood. The central focus of the parsha is the family of Noah, who, together with his wife, three sons, and their wives, survive the deluge aboard the ark. This tight-knit family of eight navigate the challenges of confinement and isolation during their time on the ark, offering us profound insights into familial interactions and their psychological dynamics. Family dynamics refer to …
Interconnectedness in the Beginning
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
October 13th, 2023
This week we begin Parshat Bereshit, the inaugural Torah portion. During a week where many of us have felt our hearts physically in one place but emotionally in another place with our fellow Bnei Yisrael in Aretz Yisrael, the Parsha invites us to delve into the profound interplay of interconnectedness, both within the natural world and within ourselves as human beings. The brutality of the terrorist events in Aretz Yisrael have affected us all du …
Marriage and Love (Chayei Sara)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
November 8th, 2023
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'ehave …
Attitude of Gratitude (Parshat Lech Lecha)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
November 6th, 2024
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 st …
Confronting the Esav Within (Vayishlach)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
November 30th, 2023
In Parshat Vayishlach, we witness Yaacov Avinu’s dramatic encounter with his brother Esav after years of separation. As Yaacov faces the impending meeting with Esav, the Parasha takes an unexpected turn - Yaacov finds himself in a wrestling match with a mysterious figure, described as the angel of Esav. The struggle is intense, and as dawn approaches, the figure touches Yaacov’s hip, leaving him with a permanent limp. Despite the toll …
Unbreakable Ties: Exploring Parental Bonds (Parshat Vayera)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
November 2nd, 2023
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, but 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.&rdquo …
A Nation Born from Delayed Gratification (Parshat Toldot)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
November 27th, 2024
Parshat Toldot offers a fascinating opportunity to explore the psychological concept of delayed gratification, a quality that is central to behavior and personal development. In this Parsha, we find a compelling example of delayed gratification through Yaacov, who ultimately becomes the third of the Avot and father to all 12 Shevatim. The story of the Parsha primarily focuses on the struggle between Yaacov and Esav, two very different brot …
Vision & Purpose (Parshat Vayeitzei)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
November 24th, 2023
In Parshat Vayeitzei we embark on the profound journey of Yaakov Avinu, a path that not only that not only traverses physical landscapes but provides depth into human psyche. At the heart of the Parsha lies the theme of vision and purpose, two psychological concepts that guide Yaakov’s path and offer timeless lessons for ours. Helen Keller once wrote, “The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.” …
Marriage and Love (Parshat Chayei Sara)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
November 21st, 2024
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'ehave …
A Nation Born of Delayed Gratification (Parshat Toldot)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
November 16th, 2023
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 brothe …
Unbreakable Ties: Exploring Parental Bonds (Parshat Vayera)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
November 14th, 2024
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 child …
Catharsis of the Soul (Acharei Mot)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
May 3rd, 2024
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. The parsha describes (Leviticus 16:5-11) how th …
Choice over Victimhood
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
May 31st, 2024
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 …
Finding Greatness in Humility: Balanced Self-Perception (Parshat Behar)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
May 23rd, 2024
In Parshat Behar, we encounter the commandments to observe the Shemita and Yovel years, which emphasize the importance of balance and harmony in the land, society, and personal relationships. The parsha begins by sharing the location of the conversation between Hashem and Moshe Rabeynu, being Har Sinai. Using the psychological concept of having a balanced self-perception, we can delve into the lessons learned through the selection of this mountai …
Kiddush Hashem & Moral Identity Fusion (Parshat Emor)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
May 16th, 2024
In Parshat Emor, we encounter various commandments regarding sanctification, sacrifices and observance of the holidays. However, one of the seminal tenants of Judaism and morality is also presented, the mitzvah of not desecrating the name of Hashem. Through the lens of the psychological concept of moral identity fusion, we are provided a meaningful opportunity to explore this mitzvah, better known as Kiddush Hashem. Moral identify fusion i …
Self-Actualizing Holiness (Kedoshim)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
May 10th, 2024
In Parshat Kedoshim we encounter a profound commandment, which has reverberating impact through out all our daily lives. The passuk states “kedoshim tihyu ki kadosh ani – you shall be holy, for I am holy (Leviticus 19:3). ” the word Kedoshim, which has the Hebrew root word kadosh – usually translated as “holy.” However, the word has a more appropriate definition described by Rashi of separation or setting …
The Divine Blueprint: Executive Planning (Parshat Vayakhel)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
March 7th, 2024
Parshat Vayakhel focuses on Moshe Rabeynu addressing Bnei Yisrael as he provides them with the instructions, given in the previous Parshot, related to constructing the Mishkan. In describing the items created for the Mishkan, what becomes clear is that the more important items were left to be created last. The Parsha describes how after the structure was completed then the Ark, Cover, Table, and Menorah were made. As we reflect on the proc …
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. …
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 …
Renewal through Routine (Parshat Tzav)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
March 28th, 2024
In Parshat Tzav, we delve into the detailed instructions for the Kohanim regarding the daily Korbanot and rituals within the Mishkan. Among these instructions is the commandment regarding the removal of the ashes from the altar. This seemingly mundane task holds within it profound symbolism and echoes of the psychological concept of renewal. The passuk at the beginning of the Parsha (6:3) states: “The priest shall dress in linen raim …
Affection in Ritual Gratitude (Parshat Vayikra)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
March 20th, 2024
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, …
Redemption Unveiled (Parshat Pekudei)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
March 14th, 2024
Parshat Pekudei, the final portion of the book of Exodus, provides us with a profound exploration of the psychological journey toward redemption. As we delve into the details of the construction of the Mishkan, we find ourselves leading to the close of Sefer of Shemot gaining clarity on collective redemption for Bnei Yisrael. In his introduction to the Sefer, the Ramban makes comments that, "The Book of Shemot is dedicated to the first Gal …
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 …
Adaptability Amidst the Wilderness (Parshat Bamidbar)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
June 6th, 2024
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. The Mechilta (Yitro: Bachodesh 1) shares the connection between the Parsha and upcoming celebration of Matan Torah being juxtaposed as the Torah was given publicly, openly, and in a place no one owns so that anyone could lay claim to it. Another reason for the Tora …
The Power of Words: Unleashing Blessings or Curses
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
June 28th, 2023
The Power of Words: Unleashing Blessings or Curses Parashat Balak By: Elan Javanfard Parshat Balak recounts the intriguing story of the Moab King, who sought to curse Bnei Yisrael through the prophet Bilam. However, through the divine intervention of Hashem, Bilam's curses transformed into blessings. While the narrative highlights Hashem’s love and protection towards us, it also provides us a profound lesson on the psychological conc …
Knowing isn’t Everything: The Insight Fallacy
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
June 28th, 2023
Knowing isn’t Everything: The Insight Fallacy Parashat Chukat By: Elan Javanfard Parashat Chukat begins with a passage that requires further investigation due to its profound psychological meaning. “This is the law of the Torah that Hashem commanded saying, Speak to Bnai Yisrael and they should take for you a completely red cow that has no blemish and has never born a yoke.” The passage describes the mitzva …
The Emphatic But (Parshat Shelach)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
June 25th, 2024
In this week's Parasha, Parshat Shelach, we encounter a fascinating insight into the psychology of communication. The Parasha tells of 10 spies who brought back frightening reports about the Aretz Yisrael resulting in Bnei Yisrael rebelling against Hashem, leading to 40 years of wandering in the desert. At first glance, the initial report of the spies appears to be factual statements regarding what they surveyed. “We came to the land you se …
Arrogance: Parsha’s Cautionary Tale
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
June 22nd, 2023
Arrogance: Parsha’s Cautionary Tale Parashat Korah By: Elan Javanfard Parshat Korach presents a compelling narrative that delves into the destructive nature of arrogance and the problems it can cause. Korach, a member of the tribe of Levi, challenges the leadership of Moshe and Aharon, driven by his own pride and desire for power. His story serves as a cautionary tale, teaching us the importance of humility and the perils of uncheck …
The Power of Perspective: A Psychological Exploration
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
June 22nd, 2023
The Power of Perspective: A Psychological Exploration Parashat Shelach By: Elan Javanfard In this week's Parasha, we encounter an intriguing narrative that sheds light on the human psyche and the importance of perspective. As we delve into the psychological aspects of the Torah, we uncover valuable insights into the human condition and find guidance for our own lives. This Dvar Torah aims to explore the interplay between psychology and Pa …
Holiday Comeback Story (Beha’alotcha)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
June 20th, 2024
Judaism is a religion of second changes. 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 concept of second changes. The Par …