In Parshas Sh’mos, Hashem for the first time informs Moshe Rabbeinu that He will strengthen Pharaoh’s heart, and Pharaoh will repeatedly refuse to release the Jewish people from Egypt. Chazal grapple with the question of how the strengthening and hardening of Pharaoh’s heart by Hashem goes together with the concept of free will. Moreover, how can Hashem even punish Pharaoh for his stubborn refusal to release the Jewish people if he was not acting on his own?

Queens teens celebrated Chanukah in true fashion at the CTeen Central Queens Chanukah Bash held over Chanukah. Festive music and a special menorah lighting were also included in the evening event hosted by Rabbi Mendy and Chaya Hecht of the Chabad of Forest Hills North. Jewish middle schoolers, as well as high schoolers, partook in the program, highlighted by an incredible latke cookoff!