Balak
Rabbi Schapiro on the Parshah: Balak
Unpacks the Rambam's reading of Bilam's prophecy that 'a star shall step forth from Yaakov' as referring to two Mashiachs, David Hamelech and the final Mashiach, and asks why David rather than Moshe Rabbeinu earns that title. Traces the answer to the Rambam's placement of Hilchot Melachim at the end of the Mishneh Torah, showing that complete fulfillment of all 613 mitzvot became possible only once David established malchut and prepared the Beit Hamikdash. Defines the halachic geder of Mashiach as restoring that same completeness, and explains why believing in his coming also obligates every Yid to actively wait for it.
Parshas Balak
A vort on Parshas Balak exploring Bilam's prophetic praise comparing the Jewish people to uncountable dust, and Rashi's reading of the mitzvos performed 'with dust.'