Collected Archive of Shoemaker Reports
The Shoemaker Report is Rav Hoshea’s weekly Torah publication. Its focus is on internalizing and living Torah from the heart, not only from the head. The divrei Torah often take the parashah of the week as their point of entry and address central questions of inner avodah — including teshuvah, prayer (tefillah), emunah, bitachon, and related areas of spiritual and personal refinement.
The writing assumes seriousness from the reader and speaks from within Torah life, with meaning emerging organically from honest analysis of our holy Torah and the words of Chazal, rather than from short-lived inspiration or simplified conclusions.
What connects the 250 men of Korach, the Tower of Bavel, and S'dom? A startling teaching from the Megaleh Amukot reveals a spiritual lineage of rebellion—souls driven by ambition without submission. Discover how distorted holiness leads to destruction.
What drove the spies to speak lashon ha-ra about the Land? This essay uncovers a deeper root—fear of entering without Moshe, a crisis of emunah, and a tragic replay of Eshkol’s well-meaning but misguided counsel.
Why did some Israelites reject the manna and spend all day collecting and cooking it? The Zohar reveals this was more than a food complaint—it was a test of emunah. Discover the spiritual depth behind the manna and the true meaning of “eating to satisfy the soul."
Hashem values shalom so deeply that He allows His name to be erased from a sefer — nullifying His own reputation in the world — to restore peace between husband and wife in the case of suspected adultery. Similarly, tzaddikim sometimes burn their own holy sefarim. What holy purpose are they achieving by this act?
Experience the inner joy of doing mitzvot with pure intention—lishmah. Drawing upon teachings from Rebbe Nachman and Likutei Halachot, rhis powerful Torah insight explores how true simchah connects us to na’aseh v’nishma, uplifts the soul, and reveals the deeper light of Shavuot and Matan Torah.
Everything we need for the day is already prepared in advance. The tools are here—just step into the "toolshed" and strengthen emunah, inner clarity, and Divine guidance. Discover how trust and perspective unlock our path in this powerful Torah insight. Explore the deeper meaning of the morning berachah: "Who provided for me all of my needs."
Discover the deep meaning behind the Omer offering of refined barley. Unlike the Sotah's coarse barley, the Omer symbolizes transformative teshuvah through silence, patience, and inner refinement—revealing how true repentance begins with humility and culminates in divine elevation.
Parashat Kedoshim contrasts the ganav (thief) who steals in secret with the gazlan (robber) who steals by force—revealing why the Torah treats hidden deceit more severely than open theft, and what this teaches us about divine concealment and free will.
Parashat Tazria opens with the puzzling phrase “when a woman emits seed,” prompting Chazal to explore who initiates spiritual connection—us or Hashem. Through Midrash, Kabbalah, and poetic imagery, we uncover a profound model of divine intimacy where human initiative brings forth truth, and heavenly response brings justice.
Aharon's hesitation at the Mishkan’s inauguration reveals a powerful lesson: true humility and reverence can be the very reasons we’re chosen for greatness. Discover how Moshe’s and Aharon’s contrasting responses shaped their divine roles in this deep exploration of leadership and self-awareness.
Discover the profound spiritual significance of salt. This in-depth exploration of Vayikra 2:13, based on the Zohar and Likutei Moharan, reveals how guarding the brit (covenant) sweetens life’s hardships, mitigates financial struggles, and strengthens emunah. Uncover the secret of the “salt of the covenant” today!
Despite the best efforts of the wise-hearted and tzaddikim, only Moshe could erect the Mishkan. How come? Only Moshe’s selfless heart could unify B’nei Yisrael, making him the key to bringing down the Divine Presence. Discover the deeper meaning behind this miracle and what all this has to do with the fact that Moshe was 10 amot tall!
