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 80 - 91 (91 total)
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 …
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& …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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, …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …