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Why does the Talmud (תלמוד) teach that marriage brings forgiveness of sins through Esav's wife's name change to Mochlas (forgiveness)? Marriage, like conversion and leadership, forces a person to become outer-directed rather than self-absorbed, addressing the root cause of most sin. However, marriage only provides opportunity for growth - those who use relationships to manipulate others rather than genuinely focus outward can worsen their spiritual state.
This shiur examines a fascinating Talmudic teaching about marriage and forgiveness through the lens of Esav's third wife, whose name changes from Bosmas to Mochlas in different Torah (תורה) portions. The Talmud (תלמוד) explains that Mochlas means forgiveness, teaching that marriage brings forgiveness of sins, which forms the basis for the custom of bride and groom fasting on their wedding day and reciting Vidui. Rabbi Zweig addresses several challenging questions: Why is forgiveness expressed through the wife's name when God grants forgiveness? How do we know women also receive this forgiveness? Why are converts, leaders, and married people all forgiven - what connects these three categories? The answer lies in understanding that all three involve becoming 'outer-directed' rather than self-absorbed.
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Parshas Vayeitzei
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