Bimidbar-Shavuos - The Missing 50 & Rus' Return .....Plus

Why do we count to 49, which is 7 weeks, but not count the number 50? What is the idea behind the fact that the Leviim are not counted with the Jewish people? Why are Leviim who are only 30 days old counted, whereas the babies of the rest of the Jewish people are not included in the count? What is the idea of the 'chosen' from amongst the many? What was the special attribute of Rus that made her worthy to be the great grandmother of Dovid, and ultimately of Moshiach?

Naso - Protecting Our Land (4 years prior)

What is the depth behind the vow of the Nazir who promises not to drink wine? What were the mistakes of the Northern kingdom of Israel and how did it contrast to the mistakes of the Southern kingdom of Judah? Why do the Jewish people lay claim to our great people - wealthy, wise and strong - in the face of the claims of the nations of the world? How do we protect our special and exalted Land of Israel of onslaught, and prevent the exile of our people? What is the message of the Nazir, who protects him or herself from the sins that can come with wine?