Parshas Ekev: אין עוד מלבדו - The Key to Miracles

Shiur from Rabbi Elimelech Kohn Ztl on פרשת עקב. Discussed: The Nefesh Hachaim reveals the secret to miracles, as illustrated by the story of R' Chanina Ben Dosa and the witch. Why was R' Chanina Ben Dosa oblivious to the danger of Kishuf, disregarding the principle of אין סומכין על הנס. Moreover, even the Avos and Moshe Rabeinu did not rely on their זכותים to protect themselves from danger! The Nefesh Hachaim explains the significance of the bronze snake in the Midbar, and why the Yidden were instructed to look above the snake (representing evil) to find salvation. The Medrash states that one can rely on Emunah even when lacking any other merit. This is also the lesson of the Manna in this week's Parsha. Bread alone cannot nourish a person; rather, it is the Word of Hashem that grants bread its life-nourishing power. Hashem continues to provide all forms of sustenance, just as He provided the Manna.