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Why does Genesis 1:26 mention both tzelem and d'mus but verse 1:27 only tzelem? The shiur distinguishes between tzelem (God's image, like a photograph) which all humanity possesses, and d'mus (God's actual essence, like a miniature model) which only Jews possess as God's children. This explains why Jews have unique obligations like Kiddush Hashem (ה׳) and why God actively seeks Jewish teshuvah.
Rabbi Zweig delivers a comprehensive analysis of the creation narrative, focusing on the distinction between tzelem (image) and d'mus (form) mentioned in Genesis. He begins by examining the apparent contradiction between Genesis 1:26 where God says "let us make man in our image (tzelem) and form (d'mus)" and Genesis 1:27 which only mentions "in His image (tzelem)." The resolution comes through understanding that tzelem represents a picture or artistic representation of God, while d'mus represents an actual miniature model containing God's essence. The Rabbi explains that all mankind possesses tzelem Elokim - they are created in God's image like a photograph or artistic rendering. However, Jews uniquely possess both tzelem and d'mus - they are not only God's image but also His children, containing actual divine essence through their souls. This distinction is supported by Mishna Avot 3:17, which states that mankind is precious for being created in God's image, while Jews have additional preciousness for being called God's children.
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Why does Megillas Esther interrupt Torah study for a message the world deemed ridiculous—that every man should rule his home? The shiur develops the yesod that the moon's willingness to "make itself small" doesn't diminish it but creates unified sovereignty. A woman who enables her husband to lead isn't relegated to second class—she is the king-maker, comfortable creating oneness where a man cannot.
Does going to doctors contradict relying on Hashem as our healer? The Ramban holds medicine is a concession for those not on high spiritual levels, while the Rambam views medicine as a science—a domain Hashem established. The shiur resolves this by explaining that illness uniquely separates a person from Hashem, making self-cure through teshuvah impossible and necessitating medical intervention.
Genesis 1:26-27, Genesis 5:1, Mishnah Avot 3:17
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