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 …
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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 …
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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.” …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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: “ …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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& …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.

July 26th, 2023

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 …
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Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.

July 19th, 2023

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 …
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Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.

July 11th, 2023

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 …
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Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.

July 11th, 2023

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 …
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Author: Elan Javanfard, L.M.F.T.

July 5th, 2023

Parshat Pinchas sheds light on the fascinating process by which Moshe sought a successor to lead Bnei Yisrael into Aretz Yisrael. In this search, we can discern the psychological underpinnings of the leadership qualities Moshe sought in his potential successor. By examining these qualities, we can glean profound insights into the nature of effective leadership, teach aspiring leaders, and nurture leadership in others.   The Passuk says, &ldq …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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