Everyday Struggles, Eternal Strength
Lessons from Parshas Ki Seitzei on overcoming challenges with faith, courage, and resilience.
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Parshas Ki Seitzei: The Battle Within
“When you go out to war against your enemies…” (Devarim 21:10). The Torah opens this week with the language of a battlefield. Chassidus teaches that it also describes the inner battlefield we all face — the daily struggle to live with clarity, compassion, and purpose.
The Battle Outside vs. the Battle Inside
The verse reads ki teitzei lamilchama al oyvecha — not if you go out, but when. Struggle isn’t a detour; it’s built into our mission. The question isn’t whether we’ll confront challenges — it’s how we’ll meet them.
“Who is strong? One who conquers his inclination.” — Pirkei Avos 4:1
This parsha also contains the most mitzvos of any portion — seventy-four — from family life to business ethics. The Rebbe explains that everyday life is full of “small battles”: choosing honesty when shortcuts tempt, responding with patience when irritation flares, and holding on to faith when the road darkens. Each such choice is a real victory.
Resilience in Uniform — A Chaplain’s Reflection
On a recent solidarity mission to Israel with fellow law‑enforcement chaplains, I met officers and civilians who have endured trauma and loss — yet continue to radiate purpose. Their courage reminded me that, while not all of us wear a badge or carry a radio, every one of us “goes out” to a daily battle: sometimes with events outside us, and often with the voices within.
Key idea: Torah doesn’t just tell us to fight — it gives us the power to win. Every time we align our actions with our higher self, we bring more light into the world.
Practical Applications This Week
Choose kindness over reactivity. Pause before replying; let dignity lead.
Practice honest dealing. Review a current task and make it “extra kosher.”
Add a minute of light. Set aside 60 seconds for Tehillim or a moment of gratitude.
Small victories add up. The ones no one sees are often the most transformative.
Share this insight with a friend who could use a bit of strength this week.
Sources
Devarim 21:10 — “When you go out to war against your enemies.”
Rashi to Devarim 21:10 (context of the parsha’s opening).
Likkutei Sichos, vol. 4, Parshas Ki Seitzei — on the inner battle and everyday victories.
Tanya, chs. 27–28 — the ongoing struggle between the G‑dly soul and the animal soul.
Pirkei Avos 4:1 — “Who is strong? One who conquers his inclination.”