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.
Subscribe to this blog to get the latest updates emailed to you
Subscription complete
Showing Results 40 - 78 (78 total)
Honoring Commitments (Parashat Matot)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-08-01 13:47:52
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 …
Honoring Commitments
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-07-11 18:19:23
In Parshat Matot, we learn about the concept of fulfilling vows and oaths as commitments to Hashem. Moshe 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 practic …
Holiday Comeback Story (Beha’alotcha)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-06-20 13:34:14
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 …
Harvesting Joy: Exploring Sukkot and the Psychology of Happiness
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-10-02 12:43:00
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 …
Growth Mindset Journey
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-07-11 18:19:58
In Parshat Masei, we are presented with a detailed account of Bnei Yisrael’s journey through the desert. This narrative provides an opportunity to explore the psychological concept of growth mindset and its relevance to our personal and spiritual development. Psychologically, a growth mindset is the belief that our abilities, intelligence, and qualities can be developed through effort, perseverance, and learning from experiences. It …
From Pit to Palace: Resilience in the Face of Adversity (Parshat Miketz)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-12-14 01:50:13
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 …
Pesach: Four Sons - A Tapestry of Individualized Communication
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-04-21 15:48:43
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 …
Finding Greatness in Humility: Balanced Self-Perception (Parshat Behar)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-05-23 14:32:09
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 …
Favorable Judgement (Parshat Shoftim)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-09-06 13:11:25
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 …
Favorable Judgement
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-08-16 13:53:21
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 …
Family Dynamics (Parshat Noach)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-10-31 13:48:29
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 …
Family Dynamics
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-10-19 02:08:15
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 …
Empowerment through Self-Efficacy (Parshat Ki Tavo)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-09-20 13:04:52
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 …
Embracing Flexibility: Overcoming Stiff-Neckedness (Parshat Ki Tisa)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-02-29 11:24:48
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 …
Embracing Flexibility: Overcoming Stiff-Neckedness (Parshat Ki Tisa)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-02-22 12:57:12
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 …
Divine Couples Counseling (Naso)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-06-14 00:24:51
Parshat Naso contains one of the most fascinating and enigmatic rituals in all of the torah, the story of the Sotah, suspected adulterer. At first glance this story seems harsh and archaic but deeper exploration reveals profound insights into relationships, trust, and insecurity. It provides us an opportunity to explore the psychological concepts of relational insecurity and jealousy. The Sotah ritual is initiated when a husband suspects h …
Delegation: A Father in Law’s Wisdom (Parshat Yitro)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-02-01 17:03:22
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 …
Constructive Criticism: A Path to Growth (Parashat Devarim)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-08-08 14:50:57
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 …
Constructive Criticism: A Path to Growth
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-07-19 13:00:06
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 …
Confronting the Esav Within (Vayishlach)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-11-30 12:49:27
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 …
Confronting the Esav Within (Parshat Vayishlach)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-12-12 15:56:01
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 …
Choice over Victimhood
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-05-31 09:42:54
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 …
Catharsis of the Soul (Acharei Mot)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-05-03 13:19:52
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 …
Built In Self-Care
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-06-22 00:00:00
Built In Self-Care
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-07-26 13:51:20
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 …
Breathing Hope (Parshat Vaera)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-01-11 11:01:12
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 …
Breaking the Cycle of Self-Sabotage (Parshat Re'eh)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-08-30 12:33:46
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, …
Re'eh: Breaking the Cycle of Self-Sabotage
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-08-09 12:58:29
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 …
Breaking the Chains of the Mind (Parshat Bo)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-01-18 19:34:03
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 …
Attitude of Gratitude (Parshat Lech Lecha)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-11-06 18:07:37
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 …
Attitude of Gratitude
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-10-29 00:54:32
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: “ …
Arrogance: Parsha’s Cautionary Tale
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-06-22 19:29:26
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 …
Arrogance: A Cautionary Tale (Parshat Korach)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-07-03 17:44:15
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 unchecked arrogance. Arrogance is characterized by an exaggerated belief in one's ow …
Affection in Ritual Gratitude (Parshat Vayikra)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-03-20 16:54:27
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, …
Adaptability Amidst the Wilderness (Parshat Bamidbar)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-06-06 18:47:15
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 …
A Path to Redemption: Tips from Addiction Treatment
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-09-13 13:07:03
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 …
A Nation Born of Delayed Gratification (Parshat Toldot)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2023-11-16 11:39:55
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 …
A Nation Born from Delayed Gratification (Parshat Toldot)
Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.
2024-11-27 16:29:07
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 …