Deeper Look At The Parsha Rabbi Pini Dunner

Rabbi Dunner reflects on the tragic loss of five IDF soldiers from his son Meir's unit in Gaza in a 'friendly fire' incident. This prompts a deep exploration of the theological problem of unbearable human suffering. Rabbi Dunner contrasts two perspectives - the Rambam’s rational approach and the Izhbitzer Rebbe’s more radical view - and highlights the struggle to find meaning and maintain faith amidst tragedy, offering both these theological perspectives as sources of comfort and guidance.

Rabbi Dunner delves into the concept of sacred time in Judaism, drawing from Rabbi Jonathan Sacks' teachings. He explains how Shabbat, likened to a temporal sanctuary, offers a break from daily life, fostering reflection and spiritual renewal. By exploring the duality of time—both cyclical and linear—we discover the importance of balance, illustrating how these sacred moments enhance spiritual growth and communal unity.

Using a classical story from the Talmud about Hillel the Elder, Rabbi Dunner blasts pro-Palestinian social justice activists for using hateful methods that go against their own stated goals of justice for all. In particular, he targets the Neo-Marxists who are behind the protests and fund them, claiming they exploit these events to spread their ideology and undermine Western democracy.

In this shiur, Rabbi Dunner emphasizes the communal aspect of holiness, inspired by the Torah's command "Kedoshim Tiheyu" — "You shall be holy." The significance of this directive being delivered publicly to the entire Jewish community underlines the collective responsibility and effort required to achieve holiness. Rabbi Dunner integrates stories of Rav Samson Raphael Hirsch and the Chofetz Chaim, who uplifted their communities by embodying and teaching these values, demonstrating that true holiness is achieved not in isolation but through communal harmony and shared spiritual goals.

Rabbi Dunner delves into the persistence of antisemitism, comparing its inevitability to "death and taxes." Drawing on insights from the late Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, he explains how antisemitism mutates but remains equally virulent. The latest guise of antisemitism has seen hatred of Jews cloaked in anti-Israel sentiment. Citing recent events at UCLA, Rabbi Dunner urges American Jews to awaken from complacency and confront this resurgent bigotry, emphasizing that the fight against antisemitism is a fight for the moral integrity of America.

Rabbi Dunner takes us to the heart of a cherished Passover tradition: opening our doors for Elijah the Prophet towards the end of the Seder, as we solemnly declare ‘Shfoch Chamatcha El Hagoyim Asher Lo Yeda’ucha’ - ‘Pour out Your wrath on the nations that do not know You.’

What is the origin of this strange custom? Why does Elijah the Prophet appear at our Seder? How does the harsh sentiments of ‘Shfoch Chamatcha’ fit in with the Seder night theme?

Rabbi Dunner examines the origins and significance of inviting Elijah into our homes juxtaposed with the powerful plea to God to pour out His divine wrath upon oppressors, uncovering the layers of meaning behind these rituals and how they challenge us to reflect on what celebrating the Exodus from Egypt is all about.